The Spirit and the Word
April 25, 2017

"But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his" (Romans 8:9).

As we see in our text, the Holy Spirit indwells every one who is a true believer, a child of God. Each believer is born again through "the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls" (James 1:21), for "faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God" (Romans 10:17).

But the role of the Spirit of God and the Word of God in our salvation only begins the Christian's relationship to them, for we are enjoined to "be filled with the Spirit" (Ephesians 5:18) in the same sense that a drunkard is filled with and controlled by wine, and to "let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom" (Colossians 3:16). These two entities equip us to be effective representatives of Him here on Earth.

Note, however, that in both of these passages the immediate results of such controlling input are the same. "Speaking to yourselves in psalms [primarily the Old Testament psalms] and hymns [songs of praise directed to God] and spiritual songs [a generic word for song, but here 'spiritual' songs], singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord" (Ephesians 5:19), and "teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord" (Colossians 3:16). A Spirit-filled Christian, knowledgeable in the Word, just can't quit singing!

Nor can he stop "giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ" (Ephesians 5:20; see also Colossians 3:17).

May we always manifest the work of the Spirit and the knowledge of the Word by our thankful hearts and the songs on our lips. JDM

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Ancient Times
April 26, 2017

"I have considered the days of old, the years of ancient times" (Psalm 77:5).

The Bible provides for us a fascinating perspective on the passage of time. Three thousand years ago, the psalmist was reflecting on God's ways in even earlier times and was seeking to understand God's ways in his time. Each new generation seems to think that it is the "new wave," leading the world out of its past darkness into a new age of enlightenment.

There is need for scientific research, of course (in fact, this is implied in the "dominion mandate" of Genesis 1:26-28), but we need to keep in mind that true science is really "thinking God's thoughts after Him." The results of our scientific "discoveries" should always be to glorify the Creator and to draw men closer to Him, not lead them away from Him.

The same is true of history. We are merely the children of ancient patriarchs, and our moral natures are the same as theirs, all contaminated by inherent sinfulness and the need for divine salvation. God dealt with them as He does with us, so that every later generation needs to study and learn from the generations of ancient times and from God's inspired histories of them in the earliest books of the Bible—especially Genesis, as well as Exodus, Job, and other ancient books. "For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope" (Romans 15:4).

God is the same today as He was in Eden, on Mount Ararat, in Babel, and Canaan, and Sinai, and Calvary. "Lord, thou hast been our dwelling place in all generations. Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever thou hadst formed the earth and the world, even from everlasting to everlasting, thou art God" (Psalm 90:1-2). HMM

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Christ the King
April 27, 2017

"But his citizens hated him, and sent a message after him, saying, We will not have this man to reign over us" (Luke 19:14).

In this parable, the nobleman who had gone into a far country to receive his kingdom is a picture of Christ in the interim between His first and second comings. The "citizens" of His Kingdom, however, refuse His Kingship. Nevertheless, He is the King, and when He returns, those "enemies, which would not that I should reign over them" (v. 27) will be slain. How much better to accept Him now!

The first title ascribed to Him was "King of the Jews" (Matthew 2:2). Long before that, however, He was King of creation. "For God is the King of all the earth, . . . a great King above all gods. . . . The sea is his, and he made it: and his hands formed the dry land" (Psalm 47:7; 95:3, 5).

He is also King of redemption, providing salvation for the world He created. "For God is my King of old, working salvation in the midst of the earth" (Psalm 74:12). "[The Father] hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son: In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins" (Colossians 1:13-14).

He is not only King of all the worlds, but also King of all the ages. He is "my King of old" and also "King for ever" (Psalm 10:16). He is "the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only wise God" (1 Timothy 1:17).

He is "King of saints" (Revelation 15:3), the "LORD of hosts, my King, and my God" (Psalm 84:3). Indeed, He is "the blessed and only Potentate, the King of kings, and Lord of lords" (1 Timothy 6:15). Therefore, let His citizens say: "Blessing, and honour, and glory, and power, be unto him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb for ever and ever" (Revelation 5:13). HMM

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Forty Days
April 28, 2017

"To whom also he showed himself alive after his passion by many infallible proofs, being seen of them forty days, and speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God" (Acts 1:3).

It is interesting how often the Scriptures refer to a 40-day period. There are nine different 40-day periods noted in Scripture (the phrase itself occurs 17 times), and it may be noteworthy that 40 days is 1/9 of the original (and prophetic) lunar/solar year of 360 days (note Genesis 7:11; 8:3-4; Revelation 11:2-3). Thus, the total of the nine 40-day periods equals the ideal year.

The periods are as follows: the intense rainfall at the Flood (Genesis 7:12, 17); the first giving of the law (Exodus 24:18; Deuteronomy 9:9, 11); the second giving of the law (Exodus 34:28; Deuteronomy 9:18, 25); the searching of Canaan by the fearful spies (Numbers 13:25; 14:34); the defiance of Israel by Goliath (1 Samuel 17:16); Elijah's journey to Horeb (1 Kings 19:8 ); Jonah's reluctant preaching in Nineveh (Jonah 3:4); Christ's temptation in the wilderness (Matthew 4:2; Mark 1:13; Luke 4:2); Christ's post-resurrection ministry (Acts 1:3).

Each of these periods was a time of intense testing for one or more of God's people, except the last. The final 40-day period, encompassing Christ’s ministry to His disciples after His resurrection, was a time of triumph and great blessing. He had come victoriously through the most intense time of testing that anyone could ever experience, and now He could show Himself alive eternally to His disciples and promise them the same victory. Forty days of testing, then 40 days of triumph! Even a lifetime of testing is more than balanced by an eternity of blessing. "The sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us" (Romans 8:18). HMM

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And Forty Nights
April 29, 2017

"And the rain was upon the earth forty days and forty nights" (Genesis 7:12).

There are nine 40-day periods in Scripture, but on only five of these the notation "and forty nights" is added. On the other four occasions (the spies in Canaan, Goliath's challenges, Jonah in Nineveh, and the post-resurrection ministry of Christ), we can assume that the activity ceased at night. But on these five it continued unabated.

The first of these was the great Flood. The most intense rains ever experienced on the earth poured torrentially, night and day. One can visualize the stress-filled nights for Noah's family, with the cries of the dying outside, and no light of the sun or moon to pierce the outer darkness. But, of course, they were all safe in God's specially designed Ark.

Many years later, Moses twice spent 40 days and 40 nights in the awful presence of God on Mount Sinai, receiving the divinely inscribed tablets, with the Ten Commandments and all the laws of God. The mountain was intermittently quaking and breathing fire and smoke while he was there, and the nights were surely more awesome even than the days, but God was there!

Elijah spent 40 days and 40 nights traveling back from Beersheba to Sinai, even though this relatively short journey would not normally require 40 days. Evidently Elijah experienced great hardships and obstacles along the way and many sleepless nights, but God met him again at Sinai, and it was worth it all.

Finally, the Lord Jesus (God Himself!) was "led up of the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil . . . forty days and forty nights" (Matthew 4:1-2). In weakened human flesh, without food or rest, this was a greater trial than any of the rest, but He was triumphant, and then the "angels came and ministered unto him" (Matthew 4:11). HMM

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Christ the Foundation
April 30, 2017

"For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ" (1 Corinthians 3:11).

The only sure and lasting foundation for either a Christian institution or an individual Christian life is the Lord Jesus Christ. No other foundation will endure in that coming day when "the fire shall try every man's work of what sort it is" (v. 13).

It is vital, therefore, to build on the foundation that Christ Himself has laid. This is laid in three courses, each of which is essential for its permanence. First of all, we must acknowledge with the apostle that "Thou, Lord, in the beginning hast laid the foundation of the earth; and the heavens are the works of thine hands" (Hebrews 1:10). He is the Creator of all things, and therefore Lord over all.

Second, we must acknowledge with Peter that we have been "redeemed . . . with the precious blood of Christ . . . who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world" (1 Peter 1:18-20). His foreordained work of redemption thus was foundational even to the foundation of the world!

Then there is the Word of God, which is foundational to everything beyond creation and redemption. "Whosoever cometh to me, and heareth my sayings, and doeth them. . . . He is like a man which built an house, and digged deep, and laid the foundation on a rock: and when the flood arose, the stream beat vehemently upon that house, and could not shake it: for it was founded upon a rock" (Luke 6:47-48).

The Lord Jesus Christ is the true foundation, for He has Himself laid every sure foundation. He created all things, His shed blood is the price to redeem all things, and His written Word, by His Holy Spirit, reveals all things needed to build a beautiful, fruitful Christian life or ministry. No other foundation will last, and "if the foundations be destroyed, what can the righteous do?" (Psalm 11:3). HMM

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The Power in Us
May 1, 2017

"Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us." (Ephesians 3:20).

This amazing assurance of God's unlimited ability to answer our prayers is related to a unique "power [Greek dunamis] that worketh in us." Paul had used the same word twice before in this same epistle, speaking of "the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe" and "the gift of the grace of God given unto me by the effectual working of his power" (Ephesians 1:19; 3:7). "Effectual working" in the original is one word, energeia, from which we get our word "energy."

Such power working in us is actually nothing less than the presence of God Himself. Its very first occurrence is in the model prayer. "For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever" (Matthew 6:13). It is this "power of God unto salvation" that is received when we first believe on Christ through the gospel (Romans 1:16). It has been so ever since the fulfillment of Christ's promise when He told His disciples that "ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you" (Acts 1:8 ).

This remarkable power of God is thus imparted to us and energized in us by the Holy Spirit. Because of this, we can be filled "with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost" (Romans 15:13). Furthermore, He thereby provides impregnable security for time and eternity, for we "are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time" (1 Peter 1:5).

With such a resource of unlimited spiritual power working in us, God is able indeed to accomplish far more than we can ever imagine, as He works in and through those yielded to His will. HMM

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The Trinity in Salvation
May 2, 2017

"How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God" (Hebrews 9:14).

There are a number of significant references to the work of all three Persons of the Trinity in the great work of salvation. Note the implicit reference to the Trinity in our text: "The blood of Christ . . . through the eternal Spirit offered . . . to God." There is also a beautiful Trinitarian implication in Ephesians 2:18: "For through [Christ] we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father."

The promise of Christ to send the Holy Spirit is a high point of the gospel of John. "I will pray the Father," said the Lord Jesus, "and he shall give you another Comforter" (Greek parakletos, meaning “one called alongside”), "that he may abide with you for ever" (John 14:16). "But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things" (John 14:26). "But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, he shall testify of me" (John 15:26).

It seems very clear from such Scriptures that all three—Father, Son, Holy Spirit—are each distinct persons. Yet that the three together are one God is also clear from the fact that they are identified by name as One. Converts are to be baptized "in the name [note the singular—one name] of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost" (Matthew 28:19). Note also the benediction formula. "The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost, be with you all. Amen" (2 Corinthians 13:14). What we cannot fully understand in our minds of this wonderful triune Godhead, we can understand and believe with our hearts. HMM

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Action Verbs
May 3, 2017

"Therefore shall ye lay up these my words in your heart and in your soul, and bind them for a sign upon your hand, that they may be as frontlets between your eyes. And ye shall teach them your children, speaking of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, when thou liest down, and when thou risest up. And thou shalt write them upon the door posts of thine house, and upon thy gates" (Deuteronomy 11:18-20).

This passage is similar to others (e.g., Deuteronomy 6:6-9) throughout Moses' writings and concerns the preserving and propagating of the news of God's miraculous protection of the people of Israel and the marvelous legal code He had revealed to them. We can understand better the care by which this preservation was to take place by noting the action verbs used in this passage.

First, the people were to "lay up" or impress the information in their hearts and souls. Every fiber of their being was to be aware of and in submission to the law. This personal commitment was to be aided by physical reminders "bound" on each person's hands and clothing, in plain sight, so that it could not be ignored or forgotten.

Next, the personal saturation was to move from the family leaders into the family, particularly the children. Parents were to "teach" the law, "speaking" of it at every opportunity, whether sitting, walking, lying down, or rising up. In this way, the personal would become corporate.

Finally, it was to become public, for each was instructed to "write" portions of the law where all could see and know of the personal commitment within.

Before God will give us a public ministry, there must be an inner submission to and love for the things of God. This should be obvious to everyone around us. Then God can use us at home and elsewhere to His glory. JDM

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Forsake and Follow
May 4, 2017

"Fear not; from henceforth thou shalt catch men. And when they had brought their ships to land, they forsook all, and followed him" (Luke 5:10-11).

Perhaps we take too lightly the fact that the disciples "forsook all, and followed him." This action involved at least two aspects, the leaving of their former life and the realignment of their loyalty.

The word "forsook" is used in a variety of extreme situations, including the "putting away" of a spouse (1 Corinthians 7:11-12; also "leave," v. 13), and even death. "Jesus, when he had cried again with a loud voice, yielded up [same word] the ghost" (Matthew 27:50). This leaving implies a complete severing of a situation or relationship.

Furthermore, they forsook all. For Peter, James, John, and Andrew, this involved leaving a prosperous business; for Matthew, a prestigious position of wealth; i.e., their careers. Certainly each left their livelihood, security, training, possessions, relationships, hopes—everything! "Whosoever he be of you that forsaketh not all that he hath, he cannot be my disciple" (Luke 14:33).

Next, the disciples needed to restructure their lives and loyalties to those of Christ. The word "follow" implies a unity of purpose and direction. Jesus told the rich young ruler to give up all vestiges of his materialistic life "and come, take up the cross, and follow me" (Mark 10:21).

Christ issues the same call to discipleship to each of us. Peter asked Him the question which we frequently ask. "Behold, we have forsaken all, and followed thee; what shall we have therefore?" (Matthew 19:27). Christ answered, "Every one that hath forsaken houses, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my name's sake, shall receive an hundredfold, and shall inherit everlasting life" (v. 29). JDM

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Spirit, Soul, Body
May 5, 2017

"And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ" (1 Thessalonians 5:23).

The threefold nature of mankind reflects, to a degree, the triune nature of the Godhead. Just as each member of the triune God is complete and wholly God, yet distinct, so each aspect of mankind is also the whole, yet distinct. The body of man comprises the entire man, yet he also possesses certain soulish emotions, desires, and propensities; and finally, the total man is endowed with a spiritual, eternal nature, somehow reflecting the image of God.

These three reflect the three great creative acts of God during creation week, identified by the three usages of the Hebrew word bara, or create. "In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth" (Genesis 1:1); i.e., physical material. Later, certain of this physical material was granted consciousness (1:21), which man shares with animals. On the sixth day, man was created as a spiritual being "in the image of God" (1:27), setting him qualitatively distinct from the animals, though he shares body and consciousness with the animals.

As in our text, when the "God of peace" sets about the task of sanctifying representatives of sinful, fallen mankind, restoring such ones to a measure of Christ-likeness, He does so in the order mentioned, beginning with a spiritual awakening. Then, through the transformed spirit, the soul is reached, and finally the body, with its appetites and lusts.

The wisdom of man says just the opposite, claiming the inner man can be improved by changing outside influences, a mentality all too often reflected even in evangelistic efforts. God's way is to start with the inner man—the root of the problem—and then affect the outer man. JDM

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Seeking Signs
May 6, 2017

"An evil and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign; and there shall no sign be given to it, but the sign of the prophet Jonas: For as Jonas was three days and three nights in the whale's belly; so shall the Son of man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth" (Matthew 12:39-40).

If there was ever "an evil and adulterous generation," it is surely this present one and, once again, there is a widespread seeking after signs (same word in the Greek as “miracles”). The almost explosive rise of the so-called New Age movement has produced an amazing interest in all forms of occultism and supernatural phenomena: astrology, channeling, ESP, near-death experiences, UFOs, meditation, and mysticism of many strange varieties.

Even in Christian circles, there is an unhealthy interest in new revelations and other supernatural signs. The Lord Jesus, however, rebuked those who wanted special signs before receiving Him. "Except ye see signs and wonders, ye will not believe" (John 4:48). He has already given us the greatest of all signs—His bodily resurrection from the dead, the best-evidenced fact of all history—and this should suffice, as He told the scribes and Pharisees in our text.

In fact, there is a real danger in seeking such signs and wonders, for many of these things—while perhaps supernatural—are not from God. "For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect" (Matthew 24:24).

Unlike the first generation of Christians, we now have the complete written Word of God, both Old and New Testaments, and it is sufficient for every need of every believer until Christ returns, "whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts" (2 Peter 1:19). HMM

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He Counted Me Faithful
May 7, 2017

"And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who hath enabled me, for that he counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry" (1 Timothy 1:12).

The testimony of a changed life is perhaps the best evidence that God is alive and active today. The fact that at salvation a dead slave to sin is given life and a new nature comprises the only rational explanation for one who lives in victory and power after a lifetime of defeat.

Take Paul, for example. Our introduction to him is at the stoning of Stephen (Acts 7:58), after which his ardour for the Jewish traditions and hatred of Christianity caused him to wreak "havoc of the church, entering into every house, and haling men and women committed them to prison" (Acts 8:3). This was not just casual opposition, for he was “breathing out threatenings and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord” (Acts 9:1). He was a "blasphemer, and a persecutor [not only of Christians, but of Christ Himself—Acts 9:5], and injurious" (1 Timothy 1:13).

However, "Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I [Paul] am chief" (1 Timothy 1:15), he said. Paul "obtained mercy" (v. 13), not receiving the punishment he deserved, through "the grace of our Lord [which] was exceeding abundant with faith and love which is in Christ Jesus" (v. 14), even though he was not even seeking God (Acts 9:1-5).

To a greater or lesser degree, God has worked that same work of grace in each life that now belongs to Him. Paul called himself the chief of sinners, but each of us has done or has been capable of equally heinous acts. Through His grace, we are not only rescued from addiction to sin, but rehabilitated and empowered and given, as we see in our text, missions to accomplish that are of eternal significance. Let us "thank Christ Jesus our Lord" with Paul. JDM

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Watching for Christ's Return
May 8, 2017

"Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come. . . . Therefore be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh" (Matthew 24:42, 44).

Those who try to predict Christ's return may become skeptical about biblical prophecy. But this would be a sad mistake. Regardless of just when it will happen, Christ will return, for so He promised, and He cannot either lie or fail. He has repeatedly made it plain that no one can determine the date of His coming. Not even He, while in His human limitations, knew that (Mark 13:32).

Again and again He urged us to watch and be ready for His return. He did not tell us to watch for the Antichrist or the revival of Rome's empire or a great apostasy or a great revival or a world government or anything else—just for Him! Note some of His commands to do this (in addition to the two in our text):

"Take ye heed, watch and pray, for ye know not when the time is" (Mark 13:33).

"Watch ye therefore: . . . Lest coming suddenly, he find you sleeping" (Mark 13:35-36).

"Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh" (Matthew 25:13).

In addition to such exhortations by the Lord Himself, the apostles also sounded similar warnings:

"Unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation" (Hebrews 9:28).

"Abide in him; that, when he shall appear, we may have confidence, and not be ashamed before him at his coming" (1 John 2:28).

Space limitations preclude listing others, but again in the words of Christ: "And what I say unto you I say unto all, Watch" (Mark 13:37). HMM

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The Promise of Liberty
May 9, 2017

"While they promise them liberty, they themselves are the servants of corruption: for of whom a man is overcome, of the same is he brought in bondage" (2 Peter 2:19).

This chapter consists of a strong denunciation of false teachers. They are, among other things, sensuous, beguiling, covetous, and accursed (v. 14). They desire personal wealth (vv. 15-16), but their message is empty, and even destructive, and will be judged (v. 17), appealing to the pride and lusts of their hearers (v. 18).

In our text we see the false teachers are quick to make promises. Promises are cheap; they cost nothing. Satan first revealed himself to mankind with a promise: "Ye shall be as gods" (Genesis 3:5), and later attempted to seduce the Son of God with "all the kingdoms of the world" (Matthew 4:8 ). Empty promises are Satan's golden hook, and many are the foolish ones who take the bait.

In this case, the false teachers promise liberty—liberty to act without the shackles of responsibility and moral law. But they themselves are "servants of corruption," slaves of a most abhorrent mentality. And who are they to offer liberty? These are indeed "great swelling words of vanity" (2 Peter 2:18), for slaves cannot rightly offer liberty.

How is this promise kept? Bondage. Bondage to that which has overcome. The liberty that sin promises is slavery, and the greater the sinner, the greater the bondage to the sin. There is perhaps no more wretched a state than to be in bondage to abject corruption in the name of liberty. It is a bondage of the spirit; a captivity of the soul. Of all states of slavery, it is the most lasting.

On the other hand, through grace we can "stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free," with no need to be "entangled again with the yoke of bondage" (Galatians 5:1). JDM

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A Test for False Prophets
May 10, 2017

"Ye shall walk after the LORD your God, and fear him, and keep his commandments, and obey his voice, and ye shall serve him, and cleave unto him" (Deuteronomy 13:4).

Our text for today seems somewhat out of place, for it is tucked into a passage dealing with false prophets: instructing the people of Israel in ways to detect one who would lead them into false worship. The penalty was death, "because he hath sought to thrust thee away from the LORD thy God, which brought thee out of the land of Egypt" (v. 10). The purpose was both purification and example, for "all Israel shall hear, and fear, and shall do no more any such wickedness as this is among you" (v. 11).

The chief test of a prophet was not his ability to perform signs and wonders (v. 1). Elsewhere the test of total, lifelong accuracy was applied. "When a prophet speaketh in the name of the LORD, if the thing follow not, nor come to pass, that is the thing which the LORD hath not spoken, but the prophet hath spoken it presumptuously. . . . that prophet shall die" (Deuteronomy 18:22, 20). A more immediate test lay in the absolute harmony of the prophet's message and deeds with the revealed Word of God, and the wholehearted commitment to the Lord Himself. This test takes the form of the holy standard set forth in our text.

Note that an inward attitude will be expressed, as given in the six action verbs. If we are to please God, we must "walk after" or "pursue" Him, and "fear" or "reverence" Him in all things. Furthermore, we must "keep" His commandments, striving to "obey" Him on every issue He addresses. He expects such a one to "serve" Him: to do His bidding. Finally, we must "cleave" or "cling" to Him, holding fast to Him in an ever-deepening relationship. To do less is to fail the test used to discern false prophets, incurring at the least His displeasure; at the most His wrath. JDM

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Things We Cannot Do Without
May 11, 2017

"But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead?" (James 2:20).

There are many things in life we can well do without, but there are at least seven things a Christian simply cannot do without. These are:

1. The Lord Jesus Christ. Speaking of the heathen nations before Christ, Paul said: "At that time ye were without Christ, . . . having no hope, and without God in the world" (Ephesians 2:12).

2. Christ's shed blood. "Without shedding of blood is no remission." "Ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, . . . But with the precious blood of Christ" (Hebrews 9:22; 1 Peter 1:18-19).

3. Christ's sinlessness. The Lord Jesus "was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin" (Hebrews 4:15). Therefore, He could die for our sins.

4. Faith in Christ. "Without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is" (Hebrews 11:6).

5. Faith-generated works. True faith in Christ inevitably produces good works. As our text reminds us, "faith without works is dead" (James 2:20).

6. True holiness. "Follow . . . holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord" (Hebrews 12:14). Genuine faith in Christ both receives His imputed holiness and also generates practical holiness in the believer.

7. Heavenly chastisement. Unconfessed and unforsaken sin in a Christian's life must receive chastisement from the Father. "If ye be without chastisement, whereof all are partakers, then are ye . . . not sons" (Hebrews 12:8 ).

Without saving faith in the Lord, we have nothing of eternal value, but with Him, we have "all things" (1 Corinthians 3:21). HMM

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The Linen Clothes
May 12, 2017

"Then took they the body of Jesus, and wound it in linen clothes with the spices, as the manner of the Jews is to bury" (John 19:40).

The Jews of Jesus' day prepared bodies for burial in a much different fashion than we do today. In our text the word "wound" actually means "to bind, tie, or wind," and bodies were tightly rolled up in long strips of linen cloth. Parallel passages in Matthew 27:59, Mark 15:46, and Luke 23:53 employ words derived from the Greek hellisso, meaning "to coil," from which we get our word "helix."

The tightness of the winding can be inferred from the raising of Lazarus from the dead. After Christ had called him back to life, "he that was dead came forth, bound [same word as 'wound'] hand and foot with graveclothes: and his face was bound about with a napkin. Jesus saith unto them, Loose him, and let him go" (John 11:44).

On resurrection morning, after hearing the news of the missing body of Christ, Peter and John ran to the sepulcher. "Peter . . . went into the sepulcher, and seeth the linen clothes lie, And the napkin, that was about his head, not lying with the linen clothes, but wrapped [same word as 'wound'] together in a place by itself. Then went in also that other disciple . . . and he saw, and believed" (John 20:6-8 ).

John recognized, as we should, that only a miracle could account for the state of these linen clothes. If thieves had stolen the body, they would either have taken the clothes, or the clothes would have been strewn around, not lying in the same location and shape as they had been when the body was present. Previously, John "knew not the scripture, that he must rise again from the dead" (v. 9), but when he saw the linen clothes, he "believed."

Christ miraculously rose from the dead. John believed; we have his eyewitness testimony. Can we do less? JDM

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What Sort of Work
May 13, 2017

"Every man's work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man's work of what sort it is" (1 Corinthians 3:13).

This key verse of Scripture gives the principle by which God will evaluate our works in that great future day when all believers will be assembled before "the judgment seat of Christ" (Romans 14:10; 2 Corinthians 5:10). The non-believer will be judged elsewhere, while this will be a judgment of believers only, for when the purifying fire tries our works, "if any man's work abide . . . he shall receive a reward. If any man's work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved" (1 Corinthians 3:14-15).

Note carefully the basis for determining rewards or loss of rewards. It is not the amount of work done—not the number of witnessing contacts or souls won to Christ, not the number of students taught in a school or the amount of money given to missions. Neither are rewards based on the type of work done; menial labour is no less eligible for heavenly rewards than is the ministry of the gospel.

The criterion of the eternal value of a believer's work on Earth is what sort it is! That is, what is the motivation of the work, the sincerity, the dedication? The Greek word translated "sort" definitely conveys the meaning of quality rather than quantity of results or type of occupation. No matter the nature of the work, or its size, the question is, what sort is it? Jesus knows that "he that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much" (Luke 16:10), and so He will "give every man according as his work shall be" (Revelation 22:12).

Therefore, "whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ" (Colossians 3:23-24). HMM

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The Mother of Us All
May 14, 2017

"And Adam called his wife's name Eve; because she was the mother of all living" (Genesis 3:20).

Sarah, Abraham's wife, was called the mother of all "the children of promise" (Galatians 4:28), and the wife of Noah was the mother of all post-Flood mankind, but Mother Eve, alone, was "the mother of all living." "Adam was first formed, then Eve," Paul said in 1 Timothy 2:13, and so-called "Christian evolutionists" have never yet been able to explain God's unique formation of Eve's body in any kind of an evolutionary context.

Eve, as our first mother, experienced all the great joys and great sorrows that all later mothers would know. She evidently had many "sons and daughters" (Genesis 5:4) and probably lived to see many generations of grandchildren. With Adam, she had even known paradise, but sin had entered their lives when they rebelled against God's Word, and God had to say, "In sorrow thou shalt bring forth children" (Genesis 3:16). The greatest sorrow was no doubt when Cain slew Abel, and as with another mother whose Son’s innocent blood was shed many years later, it was like a sword piercing her own soul (Luke 2:35).

Nevertheless, as near as we can tell, after her first great sin, Eve trusted God's Word henceforth and received His forgiveness and salvation. Later, as the mother of Seth, she taught him and her grandson, Enos, about the Lord and all His promises. "Then began men to call upon the name of the LORD" (Genesis 4:26).

Most Christian believers are looking forward to seeing their own mothers again someday—restating their love and appreciation for all they did in bearing them, and in caring, teaching, and praying for them. But it will be a wonderful experience to meet our first mother, also, as well as Sarah, Hannah, Mary, and all the other godly mothers of old. HMM

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Rejoice
May 15, 2017

"Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice" (Philippians 4:4).

This encouraging command has been used in many generations of Sunday school teachings and sermons to challenge the saints. The apostle Paul uses nearly half of the 74 appearances of the word in the New Testament in his epistles.

This simple statement in Philippians 4:4 seems to summarise all of the other passages: "Rejoice [imperative command] in the Lord [the qualifier, or the 'way' to rejoice] always [in every circumstance and condition]." Joy is a godly thing.

Because of our sinful condition, we cannot easily "rejoice in the Lord." We can have fleeting moments of happiness and experiences that fill our hearts with delight and pleasure, but true joy—the ability to "rejoice"—only comes "in the Lord."

A quick review from the "Songs" of Israel can help us grasp how the righteous rejoice:

"Be glad in the LORD, and rejoice, ye righteous: and shout for joy, all ye that are upright in heart." (Psalm 32:11)
"Rejoice in the LORD, O ye righteous: for praise is comely for the upright." (Psalm 33:1)
"Let all those that seek thee rejoice and be glad in thee: let such as love thy salvation say continually, The LORD be magnified." (Psalm 40:16)
"My lips shall greatly rejoice when I sing unto thee; and my soul, which thou hast redeemed." (Psalm 71:23)
"Rejoice in the LORD, ye righteous; and give thanks at the remembrance of his holiness." (Psalm 97:12)

Joy and rejoicing from born-again believers produce emotion (gladness, cheering, praise, singing, thanks, etc.), but the object of the emotion is always the source of our joy—the Lord Jesus our Saviour, King, and Creator. HMM III

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Moderation
May 16, 2017

"Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand" (Philippians 4:5).

There are three important aspects to this instruction. First, we are to be "moderate," the core meaning of which is to be equitable or fair, with further associations of mild and gentle.

The Greek word rarely appears in the New Testament. Twice the qualifications of church leaders include this characteristic (1 Timothy 3:3 and Titus 3:2), both times stressing the "gentle" aspect of the term. Once, and importantly, the term is used in a broad sweep of adjectives outlining the "wisdom that is from above" (James 3:17)—all aspects, incidentally, fleshing out the idea of "fair" or "equitable."

Secondly, today's verse tells us to make our moderation "known unto all men." That is demanding, since it is more difficult to apply equity to all people rather than just attempt to be fair and gentle in our dealings. Surely the Holy Spirit is insisting that our inner character be "moderate" so that the resulting actions will flow from a person's character rather than his circumstance. As noted of those of the Corinthian church, they were "manifestly declared to be the epistle of Christ" (2 Corinthians 3:3). Everybody "reads" us, and what others decide about us must include the reputation of fair and gentle behaviour to all.

Finally, the reason that this requirement is so significant is because "the Lord is at hand." Although a quick application might lead one to think "the Lord is coming back soon," the time element is not at all implied in the sentence. A better translation may be "the Lord is alongside," "He is close," or even "the Lord is with you." It is easy, sometimes, to forget that God indwells us through the Holy Spirit and that our every action and thought are known by our Creator (Psalm 139:3-4). HMM III

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Careful for Nothing
May 17, 2017

"Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God" (Philippians 4:6).

Many of us know those types of precious people who seem to thrive on making sure the details are right. They keep us careful, ensure our safety, and strengthen our plans, and yet that same strength can lead to anxiety, troubling our souls and dominating our lives. Our verse today warns us about this facet.

Our Lord gently admonished in Luke 10:41: "Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things." Martha, Mary, and their brother Lazurus were longtime associates of the Lord Jesus. He had spent many hours in their home and had come to love them as close friends. No doubt Martha had often "given thought" to Christ's visits and had been “in turmoil” over the details many times. But our gracious Lord saw the circumstances controlling Martha, and He softly insisted that she not lose the thing of greatest value by sacrificing the permanent on the altar of the immediate.

And that is the admonition in our text. Nothing should absorb us so much that we attempt to solve things on our own before submitting our requests to our Lord. Jesus made it pretty clear: "Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on" (Matthew 6:25). Look around, our Lord insisted. The birds and the flowers can’t be altered by our "thoughts."

After all that Job's friends did to "encourage" him, our great Creator reminded Job of the many wonders that he could see if he paid attention. Nothing is beyond the care of our Lord. Sometimes, we need reminding, too. HMM III

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Peaceful Security
May 18, 2017

"And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:7).

This precious promise is rooted in the "garrison guard" that God will set around our hearts and minds through His peace. Imagine the war circle of angels "full of horses and chariots of fire round about" that Elisha spoke of (2 Kings 6:17).

And it is a war! "But I see another law in my members," Paul wrote, "warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members" (Romans 7:23). Were it not for the peace that exceeds human comprehension, we would quickly succumb to the fact that "in the world [we] shall have tribulation"; but Jesus also said, "be of good cheer; I have overcome the world" (John 16:33).

The "peace of God" is a supernatural peace, not a false calm of meditative hypnosis or a denial of the turmoil that surrounds the "roaring lion" who seeks to devour (1 Peter 5:8 ). This peace is from our Lord Jesus and "not as the world giveth" (John 14:27). It comes through the "things I have spoken unto you," Jesus said, "that in me ye might have peace" (John 16:33).

Since, however, this kind of supernaturally guarded and God-given peace comes from and through the message of the Scriptures, this peace must "rule in your hearts" (Colossians 3:15). There can be no vacillation, no hesitation about the source, the authority, the capability, or the stability of such peace—or the war that rages in the members of our body will dissipate the vision of God's garrison surrounding our hearts and minds. "For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace" (Romans 8:6).

"And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful" (Colossians 3:15). HMM III

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Right Thinking
May 19, 2017

"Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, . . . honest, . . . just, . . . pure, . . . lovely, . . . of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things" (Philippians 4:8 ).

Our lives are surrounded with ungodliness and demands that often bleed away our thoughts until we are worn and weakened. Reflect for a few moments on this inventory of empowering thinking.

Truth—Literally "that which is not hidden"; Jesus Himself (John 14:6); the Word of God (John 17:17; Psalm 119:11).
Honesty—Not just accuracy, but "sober" and "venerable"; sometimes "magnificent" or "great"; used of church officers (1 Timothy 2:2; 3:8 ).
Justice—Righteous, just, right, suitable; "The mouth of the just bringeth forth wisdom. . . . The lips of the righteous know what is acceptable" (Proverbs 10:31-32).

Purity—Morally and sexually chaste; closely connected with "holiness"; the emphasis is on physical and mental purity (1 John 3:2).
Loveliness—Beauty, friendship, delight, and wonder are all suggested by the "good love" of this word (Luke 12:27).
Good News—This takes discipline, because there is far more bad news than good in this world; we are admonished to take "inventory" (dwell on, recall) the "good reports" (Proverbs 25:25).

These excellent and praiseworthy matters should dominate our thinking in a conscious "inventory" of the attributes on this final list. If we do so, God promises His peace in our lives. HMM III

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Pay Attention
May 20, 2017

"Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you" (Philippians 4:9).

From earliest childhood, we learn by watching the actions and lives of others. First, of course, our parents, then our peers and educators, politicians, business leaders, musicians, celebrities—the list is nearly endless. We learn by what we receive, hear, and see.

Jesus said, "They shall be all taught of God" (John 6:45). The foundational learning process that enables the receiving and hearing of further truth must come first from God, through His Word and by the born-again believer. Paul's young protégé, Timothy, first learned from his mother and grandmother about God, and then under Paul's tutelage from the Scriptures (2 Timothy 1:5; 3:15).

But the key to learning is active attention! One must first receive, hear, and see. Paul commended the Thessalonians because they "received the word of God which ye heard of us, ye received it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God" (1 Thessalonians 2:13). The Bereans were "more noble" because they "searched the scriptures daily" (Acts 17:11). The wise preacher "gave good heed, and sought out, and set in order many proverbs" (Ecclesiastes 12:9).

Information, however well absorbed, is worthless without applying that which is learned. The philosophers of Athens were scorned because they "spent their time in nothing else, but either to tell, or to hear some new thing" (Acts 17:21).

All of us must first be learners. Soon, however, we must work out our "own salvation with fear and trembling," since God has chosen to work through us (Philippians 2:12-13). HMM III

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Be Content
May 21, 2017

"I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content" (Philippians 4:11).

The English word "content" can bring up thoughts of indifference and mild temperament. Modern usage tends to give "content" a negative connotation, as though such an attitude has little ambition or drive.

Not so of the Greek term that the Holy Spirit chose for this passage. It is composed of the pronoun for "self" and the noun for "sufficiency." Both in Scripture and in secular Greek literature, the word demands an ability to conquer whatever circumstances that may oppose one's purpose or goal and to continue through in spite of difficulties.

The context of our text is a prime example. Paul had experienced hunger and satisfaction. He knew what it meant to be obscure and to be a celebrity. There were times when he had more than enough resources to accomplish what he understood God had called him to do, and other times when resources were very scarce. In whatever state he found himself, Paul had learned to be self-sufficient.

Our problem is that we often are looking only at the physical and circumstantial issues and have not learned that our Lord Jesus provides grace that "is sufficient for thee: for [His] strength is made perfect in weakness" (2 Corinthians 12:9). The resources of the omnipotent Godhead are enough for us to "be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee" (Hebrews 13:5).

The self-sufficiency of the twice-born rests on the eternal fact that God "worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure" (Philippians 2:13). HMM III

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Christ's Strength
May 22, 2017

"I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me" (Philippians 4:13).

This little verse gets quoted out of context a lot. It is used to justify bizarre plans and dreams, as well as to suggest that every Christian should be rich and healthy all the time. Not only are such applications without any support in Scripture, they are completely out of the context of this passage.

In the previous verses, Paul lists a variety of circumstances that he had faced, from poverty to wealth, learning to be "content" in each of these developments. Then he notes that he "can do all things" through the strength that the Lord provides during conflicting circumstances.

The "do" of this text is the prevailing of the power of God in which and by which we minister. "Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; but our sufficiency is of God; who also hath made us able ministers of the new testament" (2 Corinthians 3:5-6).

The early church experienced a stunning growth in converts as it preached and testified of the resurrected Christ. This result, however, is due to the fact that the Word of God grew "mightily . . . and prevailed" (Acts 19:20).

Our fight is not a physical one. We wrestle against the great spiritual powers of wickedness that have their source in the heavenlies. The history of God's people is replete with the battle that was begun in the Garden of Eden. Adam and Eve lost because they sought to deal with the issue on their own. We win or prevail only when we arm ourselves with God’s armor and become "strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might" (Ephesians 6:10). HMM III

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Communicate Well
May 23, 2017

"Notwithstanding ye have well done, that ye did communicate with my affliction" (Philippians 4:14).

"Communicate" is one of the older words from the era of the King James Version that takes some re-connecting in order to clarify the term. Our use today normally means speaking, understanding one another, or simply passing on instructions. The Greek word is sugkoinoneo, a compound of the preposition "with" and the primary word for "participation."

The basic term is often translated "partner" or "partake" and frequently is connected with the act of sharing finances in the ministry of others. That is the application in the context of today's verse. Paul commends the Philippian church for partnering with him over his journeys and recognizing time and again the needs that were necessary to fulfill for the success of the ministry.

Today, there are a vast array of charity-based organizations, from large hospitals and universities to local food and clothing distribution efforts. Most of those, by the way, were started by Christian groups as a way to "communicate" to the "affliction" of many. But how do we determine who among the many, or at what ratio, to attempt to distribute "to the necessity of saints?" (Romans 12:13).

Two main principles must guide our "communication" in the Kingdom. First, it is clear that our New Testament responsibility is first to the church in which our Lord has placed us. Some disagree, but "storehouse" tithing appears to claim our first priority. Then there is opportunity to follow the specific leading of God among those ministries with which we are familiar and of whom we are confident that first seek the Kingdom of God (Matthew 6:33). HMM III

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Sweet-Smelling Sacrifice
May 24, 2017

"I am full, having received of Epaphroditus the things which were sent from you, an odour of a sweet smell, a sacrifice acceptable, wellpleasing to God" (Philippians 4:18).

The reference in this text goes back to the "sweet savour" that God smelled when Noah offered his initial sacrifice after disembarking from the year-long Flood. That offering triggered a promise from God that He would never again curse the earth or destroy every living thing with water, as the Flood had done. Furthermore, the Lord promised to maintain the seasons and functions of the earth until the end (Genesis 8:20-21).

Later, Moses would bring the Lord's instructions for those laws of Israel that would keep the nation separate from the rest of the world and constantly remind them of the very personal relationship that the Creator of all things was establishing with them. Some of the sacrifices would be an "offering by fire unto the LORD, a burnt offering, or a sacrifice in performing a vow, or in a freewill offering, or in your solemn feasts, to make a sweet savour unto the LORD" (Numbers 15:3).

It is interesting to note that the twice-born are "unto God a sweet savour of Christ" (2 Corinthians 2:15). Our very existence as His children smells good to our heavenly Father! We are also compared to living stones that are being built into a spiritual house that is "to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ" (1 Peter 2:5). Our bodies are to be "living sacrifices" (Romans 12:1) that render the "sacrifice of praise" (Hebrews 13:15), while God Himself is making us "perfect in every good work to do his will, working in you that which is wellpleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ" (Hebrews 13:21). HMM III

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God's Complete Supply
May 25, 2017

"But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:19).

The key to this promise in today's verse is the need that must be met by the riches of the great King as we render our service in His Kingdom. But how vast those needs can be and how different the supply is!

Millions of Israelites needed food in the wilderness, and the manna came fresh from heaven each day for 40 years (Exodus 16:35). Gideon needed victory over the innumerable Midianites, and God caused confusion to fall on his enemies (Judges 7:22). Elijah needed a powerful demonstration of God's authority, and fire came down from heaven (1 Kings 18:38).

In the New Testament, a crippled man needed a new hand (Mark 3:5), a blind man needed new eyes (John 9:5-6), and a dead man needed life (John 11:43-44). Jesus made the best wine anyone had ever had when the party needed supply (John 2:10-22). He calmed the sea when the disciples needed freedom from their fear (Mark 4:38-39). And He pulled Peter up from the sea when he needed rescue (Matthew 14:30-31). No matter the size of the need, the resources are more than sufficient.

More often than not, however, the need is spiritual. We all need God's forgiveness from the "sickness" of sin (Mark 2:17). When we first come into His Kingdom, we need the "milk" of the Word (Hebrews 5:12). We all need the wisdom to "walk honestly toward them that are without" (1 Thessalonians 4:12).

And our great God has the resources to supply all our needs. HMM III

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God's Grace
May 26, 2017

"The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen" (Philippians 4:23).

The basic form of today's verse appears 13 times in the New Testament. In Scripture, repetition is not for lack of something to say but the Holy Spirit’s intentional emphasis on something.

God extends His grace to the very creation itself by merely keeping the universe together (2 Peter 3:7), intending thereby to "speak" and supply knowledge (Psalm 19:1-4) sufficient to display His very nature and power in such a way that there can be "no excuse" about His existence and care for humanity (Romans 1:20).

In seven of the 13 times, this "grace of our Lord Jesus Christ" is focused on "you." God's grace is very personal. Everything that He has done is because He loves you and me beyond any grasp of our earthly imagination. No one is beyond the touch of God's grace: "For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men" (Titus 2:11). "We love him, because he first loved us" (1 John 4:19).

Once, in contrast, God says some will turn "the grace of our God into lasciviousness" and deny Him who has bought and paid for all the horrible sin that they embraced to spite such grace (Jude 1:4). No wonder the apostle Paul calls such people "abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate" (Titus 1:16).

The Lord twice focuses His grace on our spirits, indicating God's intimate knowledge of our innermost thoughts (Romans 8:26). Paul noted that God’s grace is "exceeding abundant with faith and love" (1 Timothy 1:14), and he insisted that His grace is designed to be "glorified in you" (2 Thessalonians 1:12). Like today's verse, most of the prayers for us end in "Amen." And that's the way it should be. HMM III

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