Category God

GOD is the Genesis, Owner, & Definer

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GOD is the GENESIS (creator) of all things.

“In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth” (Genesis 1:1).

This statement is a foundational truth that establishes God’s existence and His unparalleled power. As Creator, God brought everything into being out of nothing, speaking life and order into the void. The intricate design of the universe, from the vast galaxies to the smallest particles, testifies to His wisdom and omnipotence. This truth is said also of Jesus, “For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him” (Col 1:16). But some do not recognize the Creator, “Who is the LORD, that I should obey his voice to let Israel go? I know not the LORD…” (Exo 5:2_

Everything that exists owes its existence to Him. This includes not only the physical universe but also the moral and spiritual dimensions of life. Since He is the source of all life, He possesses an inherent authority over His creation.

GOD is the OWNER of all things.

Because God is the Creator, He is also the Owner of all that He has made. Psalm 24:1-2 proclaims, “The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it; for he founded it on the seas and established it on the waters.” Ownership implies a deep and comprehensive authority. Just as an artist has rights over their masterpiece, God has the ultimate right and claim over His creation.

God’s ownership extends to every aspect of our lives. Our talents, resources, and even our very breath belong to Him. This perspective shifts our focus from self-centered living to a life that honors and glorifies Him. But some would not honor Him, “Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful” (Rom 1:21a).

GOD is the DEFINER of Righteousness, Justice, & Salvation.

Flowing from this truth that God is Creator and Owner, He possesses the sole right to define and decide what is right, just, and necessary for salvation. This divine prerogative is evident throughout Scripture. In Isaiah 45:9, the prophet declares, “Woe to those who quarrel with their Maker… Does the clay say to the potter, ‘What are you making?’” This rhetorical question highlights the absurdity of creation questioning its Creator.

God’s authority encompasses defining moral and ethical standards. In a world rife with moral relativism, God’s Word stands as the absolute standard. His laws and commandments, revealed through Scripture, are not arbitrary rules but reflections of His holy and righteous character.

Moreover, God’s authority extends to the realm of salvation. Throughout the Bible, He has clearly delineated the path to reconciliation with Him. The New Testament emphasizes that salvation is through Jesus Christ alone. In John 14:6, Jesus asserts, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” This exclusivity underscores God’s right to determine the means by which humanity can be saved. But some say that salvation can be found another way, “And when they heard of the resurrection of the dead, some mocked” (Acts 17:32). For some, the gospel is foolishness, (1Cor 1:18).

Understanding God as the ultimate authority challenges us to submit to His will and to obey the gospel (Mark 16:16; Acts 2:38). We trust His wisdom, even when it contradicts our limited understanding or societal norms.

Agape,

Spencer

John 3:16, the greatest verse

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“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”

The Greatest Being

The verse begins with “FOR GOD.” The verse begins with the greatest being in existence. In Genesis 1:1, we read, “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.” God is the Creator, the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end. John 1:1-3 tells us, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made.” Job 38-41 presents a majestic depiction of God’s power and wisdom. Our faith rests upon the foundation of this greatest being, who is sovereign over all creation.

The Greatest Thing

Next, we see the greatest thing: “SO LOVED.” God is love. In 1Corinthians 13:13, we learn that “the greatest of these is love.” 1John 4:8 declares, “He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love.” God’s love is unparalleled and incomprehensible. It is a love that is willing to sacrifice, a love that seeks the well-being of others. It is the greatest thing because it defines the actions of the greatest being.

The Greatest Number

“THE WORLD.” This phrase encompasses the greatest number: the entire world. God’s love is not limited to a select few but extends to every person on this earth. 2Peter 3:9 states, “The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.” 1Timothy 2:4-6 reinforces this by saying, “Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.” 1John 2:2 confirms that “And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world.” The greatest number shows the expanse of God’s love. God is not a respecter of persons (Rom 2:11).

The Greatest Gift

“THAT HE GAVE HIS ONLY BEGOTTEN SON.” In this we see the greatest gift. Ephesians 2:8 reminds us that “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God.” Hebrews 2:9 tells us, “But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels for the suffering of death, crowned with glory and honour; that he by the grace of God should taste death for every man.” 2Corinthians 9:15 exclaims, “Thanks be unto God for his indescribable gift!” The greatest gift (grace) is God’s own Son, given for the redemption of mankind.

The Greatest Faith

“THAT WHOSOEVER BELIEVETH IN HIM.” This phrase highlights the greatest faith. Jesus declares in John 8:24, “I said therefore unto you, that ye shall die in your sins: for if ye believe not that I am he, ye shall die in your sins.” Hebrews 3:18-19 warns of the consequences of unbelief as seen through disobedience, while Hebrews 11:6 teaches that “without faith it is impossible to please God.” The greatest faith is an active belief in Jesus Christ as the Son of God and the Savior of the world (James 2:14-26).

The Greatest Loss

“SHOULD NOT PERISH.” The greatest loss is the eternal separation from God. While any can be saved, the bible tells us that not all will obey the Gospel (Matt 7:24-29; 2Thess 1:8-9). Matthew 25:46 warns of “everlasting punishment,” and John 5:29 speaks of those who will “resurrection of damnation.” The story of the rich man and Lazarus in Luke 16:19-31 vividly portrays the torment of those who perish. 2Corinthians 5:10 reminds us that “we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ.” The greatest loss is the eternal consequence of rejecting God’s gift of salvation.

The Greatest Difference

“BUT.” While all may be saved, some won’t obey the gospel. “And being made perfect, he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him” (Heb 5:9). Some will hear, but not do; “Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock: And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock. And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand: And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it.” (Matt 7:24-27). Many may confess Jesus as Lord and Savior, but not do what He says, “And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say” (Luke 6:46)?

The Greatest Blessing

“HAVE EVERLASTING LIFE.” Finally, we come to the greatest blessing. 1Thessalonians 4:13-18 describes the hope of the resurrection and the promise of eternal life with Christ. Everlasting life is the ultimate blessing, the fulfillment of God’s promise to those who believe.

John 3:16 is a verse that reveals to us the greatest being, the greatest thing, the greatest number, the greatest gift, the greatest faith, the greatest loss, and the greatest blessing. Let us hold fast to this truth, share it with others, and walk in the light of God’s incredible love and grace.

Agape, Spencer

How to be saved according to the Bible

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People often appeal to single passages on how to be saved, but ignore an entire book in the New Testament that shows people going from a lost condition to being saved. That book is called ACTS. It contains the founding of the church of Christ at Pentecost, and the conversion of the lost to salvation in Christ Jesus.

Cases of Conversion in the book of Acts.

1. The first of these conversions happened on the notable day of Pentecost when the church was established. The text (Acts 2:14) shows that they had the Gospel preached to them; they heard (vv. 36-37); they repented of their sins (v. 38); and they were baptized into Christ (v. 38). The result was that they had their sins washed away. 

2. In Acts 8:4-5, Phillip preached to the people of Samaria; they heard (v. 6); they were baptized (v. 12).

3. Phillip also preached to Simon (Acts 8:4-5); he heard the Gospel (v. 6); he was baptized (v. 13).

4. Phillip preached to the Eunuch (Acts 8:35-39); he made the good confession (v. 37); he was baptized (v. 38) and rejoiced in the forgiveness of his sins (v. 39).

5. Ananias preached to Saul, later called Paul (Acts 9:17); he was baptized (Acts 22:16), and the rest of his life he taught others to do the same (I Cor. 12:13).

6. Peter preached to Cornelius (Acts 10:34-35); he and his family heard (v. 44); they repented of their sins (Acts 11:18); they were baptized (v. 48). They were saved (Acts 11:14).

7. Paul preached the saving message to Lydia on his second missionary journey (Acts 16:13); she heard (v. 14); she was baptized (v. 15).

8. Paul preached to the Jailor (Acts 16:32); he repented (v. 33); he was baptized (v. 33).

9. Paul preached to and converted souls at Corinth (Acts 18:5); they heard (v. 8); they were baptized (v. 8).

10. Paul preached to Crispus (Acts 18:5); though it is not recorded in the book of Acts that he was baptized, he was baptized according to Paul’s writing to the Corinthian church (1Cor. 1:14).

11. The Ephesians had the Gospel preached to them (Acts 19:8); they heard the message of salvation (Eph. 1:13). They were baptized (Acts 19:5) and were in this way saved by grace (Eph. 2:8-10).

agape,

spencer

Here is a link to another article on the conversions in Acts.

Joseph: the man God chose to raise His Son.

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The Man God chose to Raise His Son.

Joseph’s life and actions, as depicted in the Gospels, offer an example of virtue and obedience, qualities that emphasize his critical role in the life of Jesus.

Described in the Gospel of Matthew as a “just man” (Matthew 1:19), Joseph’s character is first revealed through his merciful reaction to Mary’s unexpected pregnancy. Engaged to Mary, he discovers she is pregnant before they have come together, and knowing the child is not his, he faces a societal and personal crossroad. He chooses a path of kindness, intending to spare Mary from possible humiliation or harm, which alone sets a significant tone for his character.

Later, He is visited by an angel in a dream, instructing him to not fear taking Mary as his wife because the child conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit (Matthew 1:20). His response to this divine intervention highlights another of his virtues: obedience. Matthew 1:24-25 tells us that Joseph did as the angel of the Lord commanded; he took Mary as his wife and named the child Jesus. This act of faith and submission to God’s will shows him as a man deeply committed to following God’s direction without hesitation.

Later, he and Mary bring Jesus to the temple to present Him to the Lord as prescribed in the Law of Moses (Luke 2:22-24), and they make the annual pilgrimage to Jerusalem for Passover, demonstrating his commitment to his faith and his role as a spiritual guide to his family (Luke 2:41-43).

Joseph’s profession as a carpenter, mentioned in Matthew 13:55, underscores his role as a provider who earns a living for his family. Moreover, the offering described in Luke 2:24, “a pair of doves or two young pigeons,” which was allowed for those who could not afford a lamb, indicates that Joseph’s means were limited, yet he did what was necessary within his resources to fulfill his service to God (cf. 1Tim 5:8).

When Herod seeks to kill the newborn Jesus in Matthew 2:13-23, Joseph again heeds an angelic warning in a dream, this time to flee to Egypt, and later, to return to Nazareth, safeguarding his family from harm. These episodes not only portray him as a decisive protector but also as a man of action who places the safety and well-being of Mary and Jesus above his own comfort and security.

Lastly, Joseph’s honorable acceptance to adopt Jesus as his own son seals his legacy as a man of immense faith and virtue. This act of adoption was not merely a legal formality but a wholehearted acceptance of Jesus into his life, treating Him as his own and providing for Him as any father would, so that all knew Jesus as the son of Joseph and Mary. “And they said, Is not this Joseph’s son” (Luke 4:22; cf; John 6:42)?

Joseph’s life, therefore, offers a remarkable model of justice, obedience, scriptural fidelity, diligent earning, protection, and honor. In the grand narrative of Christianity, Joseph might often be seen in the background, but his influence and guidance were surely foreground in the early life of Jesus, the Savior of mankind. Through Joseph’s exemplary character, we see the qualities that God values in those He chooses.

Agape,

Spencer

What do we GAIN if we GAIN the whole world?

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Matthew 16:26 says, “For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?”

The world often tells us that success is measured by our wealth, our status, our accomplishments. But Jesus flips this notion on its head. He asks us to consider the value of our soul. What good is it if we gain everything the world offers, but lose the most precious thing we have—our eternal soul?

We Give up our Soul

Our soul is so valuable that God gave His own Son that we have the opportunity to be saved. Jesus died on the cross not to make us rich or famous, but to save our souls. He paid the ultimate price so that we might have eternal life. This is the greatest treasure, far surpassing anything the world can offer. (Rom 5:8-10)

We gain the affection of the World

When we set our affections on worldly gains over our spiritual well-being, we risk losing our soul. We can become so consumed by the pursuit of success, wealth, and approval that we neglect what is pleasing to God. We might find temporary happiness, but it’s fleeting and shallow compared to the deep, abiding joy that comes from knowing Christ. Romans 12:2 tells us, “And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” We are to live differently, to set our minds on things above, not on earthly things.

The Illusion of Worldly Gain

The world tells us to chase after material wealth, to seek power and fame. It tells us that the more we have, the happier we will be. But how often have we seen people who seem to have it all, yet are deeply unhappy, unfulfilled, and lost? They’ve gained the world but lost their soul’s true purpose and joy.

Jesus reminds us that our souls are eternal, while the things of this world are temporary. In 1 Timothy 6:7, we are reminded, “For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out.” No amount of money, fame, or power can accompany us beyond this life. What truly matters is the condition of our soul.

We gain nothing except what we deserve

So, what do we win if we win the world but lose our soul? We gain nothing of true value. But when we seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, all these things will be added unto us (Matthew 6:33). When we focus on serving God, we find true peace, joy, and fulfillment.

Revelation 3:21 promises, “To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne.” This is the ultimate reward—eternity with Jesus, reigning with Him in glory. This is worth far more than anything the world can offer.

Let’s not be deceived by the lure of worldly success. Let’s keep our eyes on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith. Let’s treasure our relationship with Him above all else, knowing that our soul is of infinite worth. . “Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you” (John 15:14).

Agape,

Spencer

This article is part 1 of a series titled, God’s Moral Law. click here for part one.

You’re invited to attend one of our services at the church of Christ on Franklin and Juniper in Borger Texas.

Seeking Jesus in Mark 5

The Preacher 1 Comment

In Mark chapter 5, we read about several encounters of those seeing Jesus. Amidst the miracles and interactions, these folks stand out, each exhibiting varying degrees of fear or awe towards Jesus. Let’s look at a few of their stories and see if their fear was justified, or why they ought to have no fear.

The Legion: The first in Mark 5, is a man possessed by a legion of demons. This legion, fearing Jesus, pleads not to be tormented. Their fear stems from the recognition of Jesus’ authority over the spiritual realm. They understand His power to cast them out and disrupt their malevolent activities. Their fear is justified, for Jesus indeed removes them from the man, demonstrating His supremacy over darkness.

The Citizens: Following the exorcism of the legion, the citizens of the region witness the transformation of the possessed man. Instead of rejoicing at this miraculous deliverance, they are gripped by fear and beg Jesus to leave their region. Their fear is rooted in the disruption caused by His power. They show no concern for the one who has been restored from his torments. Their fear is misplaced by priorities that lead them to reject Jesus, despite this miraculous deed.

The Exorcised Man: The man formerly possessed by is now clothed and in his right mind, sitting at Jesus’ feet. He has no fear of Jesus, but rather a desire to go with Him wherever He goes. He is instead told to “go home and tell,” where he boldly proclaims all that Jesus had done for him; and they marveled.  

Jairus: a synagogue leader, approaches Jesus in desperation, pleading for his daughter’s healing. Despite his high status in society, Jairus humbles himself before Jesus, acknowledging His power to heal. His fear is one of urgency and desperation, fueled by the impending death of his beloved daughter. Jairus’ faith outweighs his fear as he trusts in Jesus’ ability to perform the impossible. Unlike the denizens of the region who rejected Jesus, Jairus pleads with Him to come to his house.

The Woman with the Issue of Blood: Amidst the crowd pressing around Jesus, a woman suffering from a twelve-year hemorrhage reaches out in faith, believing that merely touching His garment would bring healing. Her fear is one of vulnerability and shame, as she has endured societal separation due to her condition. However, her faith overcomes her fear, and Jesus commends her for her courage and belief, declaring her healed.

In reflecting on these characters from Mark chapter 5, it becomes evident that fear can manifest in various ways when confronted with the divine presence of Jesus Christ. Some respond with reverence and faith, while others react with skepticism and rejection. Ultimately, those who approached Jesus with humility and trust found freedom, and healing, while those who allowed fear to hinder their faith miss out on the abundant blessings He offers.

Agape,

Spencer

This is part 6 of a series called Preaching through Mark.

Sinning against the Holy Spirit

The Preacher 2 Comments

“Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom” (Colossians 3:16).

The concept of blasphemy against the Holy Spirit has long intrigued and, at times, perplexed believers. In Mark 3:29, Jesus warns about an unforgiveable sin called blasphemy against the Holy Spirit. Some have said that it’s saying a certain phrase. That view doesn’t fit with the rest of the scriptures on this matter.

It makes sense that this blasphemy involves disobeying the written word of God and remaining unrepentant unto death. It is the Holy Spirit that reveals God’s will to man. This is true for the Old and the New Testaments.

“For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost”

(2Pet 1:21; Acts 1:16; Heb 9:8; 2Tim 3:16-17).

To better understand this ultimate sin, let’s explore the many ways we sin against the Holy Spirit as revealed in the written word.

Ephesians 4:30 implores believers not to grieve the Holy Spirit. Sorrowing the Spirit occurs when we engage in actions contrary to God’s commands. Look at what Isaiah wrote; “But they rebelled, and vexed his holy Spirit: therefore he was turned to be their enemy, and he fought against them” (Isaiah 63:10). This grief is a result of our disobedience and disregard for His word. When we knowingly choose sin over righteousness, we grieve the Spirit.

In 1 Thessalonians 5:19, we are warned not to quench the Spirit. The Holy Spirit is often symbolized as a flame or fire (Acts 2:3-4). To quench the Spirit is to suppress His influence in our lives through the word. When we ignore His revealed word, or neglect the pursuit of spiritual growth, we extinguish the flame of the Spirit that should cause a burning within us. “Did not our heart burn within us, while he talked with us by the way, and while he opened to us the scriptures?” (cf. Luke 24:32).

Acts 5:1-11 recounts the tragic tale of Ananias and Sapphira, who lied to God the Holy Spirit. Deception never draws us closer to God. They chose to lie to be seen as being more generous than they were. We can fake out men, but we’ll never pull the wool over the all-seeing eyes of God.

In Acts 7:51, Stephen accuses the religious leaders of resisting the Holy Spirit. Resistance involves actively opposing the Spirit’s instructions in the revealed word. When we resist the Holy Spirit, we interfere with the saving power of the Gospel (Romans 1:16).

The account of Simon the sorcerer in Acts 8:17-24 illustrates the danger of insulting the Holy Spirit. Simon sought to purchase the power of the Holy Spirit, demonstrating a profound misunderstanding of the Spirit’s purpose. This sin lies in attempting to commercialize the divine. When we seek to use the Word for personal gain, we insult His sovereignty and it seeks to take advantage (cf. 2Pet 2:3).

Mark 3:22-30 warns against turning away from the Holy Spirit in an unrepentant state. Turning away involves a deliberate rejection of the Spirit’s convicting work and a refusal to acknowledge our need for repentance. If this form of rebellion continues until death, it closes the door to God’s mercy and forgiveness. Unrepentance signifies a hardened heart that resists the transformative power of the Gospel leading to eternal death.

 Agape,

Spencer

Here’s a link for additional reading on how we’re led by the Holy Spirit.

This is part 3 of a series “Preaching through Mark.” Click here for the complete series.

The Truth sets us free and makes people mad

The Preacher 2 Comments

“Am I therefore become your enemy, because I tell you the truth?” (Gal 4:16).  

The New Testament recounts the life, teachings, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. It tells us about the love of God through the sacrifice of Christ. We also find instances where the truth elicited strong and often negative reactions from people of the time.

The Truth has the power to disturb, unsettle, and even anger those who encountered it. The stories in the NT serve as a timeless reminder that the truth, though uncomfortable, has the potential to challenge the status quo, expose hypocrisy, and disrupt ingrained power dynamics.

The reactions to the truth highlight the vehement resistance toward the truth & truth tellers. Knowing this we can be better prepared to proclaim the truth with resilience, confidence, and determination.

5 things the TRUTH does.

In today’s diverse world, where ideologies clash and beliefs vary, the concept of objective truth is often lost on many. A closer examination of scriptures reveals that the truth is both unwavering and, at times, divisive.

Paul warns us that some will turn away from the truth toward their own lusts, (2Timothy 4:3-4). Jesus’ own teaching was difficult for some and they turned away from our Lord, walking no more with Him, (John 6:60-66). We still see this same thing when people fail to understand the truth.

The exclusivity of truth is underscored in passages like John 14:6, Mark 16:15-16, and Acts 4:12. These verses assert that the path to truth is narrow and requires faithful obedience. While the gospel is open to all, (Mark 16:15), it maintains the exclusivity of salvation through faith in Christ, repentance to sin, and water baptism.

Moreover, the unchanging and unalterable nature of truth is emphasized in 1Peter 1:23-25, Psalm 119:160, and 2Timothy 1:13. The very nature of truth requires that it be unchanging. Subjectiveness is confusing, changing, and unstable. “For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints” (1Cor 14:33; cf Matt 7:24-29).

Yet, the unyielding nature of truth can be troubling to those who choose to believe otherwise. In Matthew 15:10-12 and Galatians 4:16, the Bible addresses the offense caused by the truth, creating tension and discomfort among those who resist its teachings. “Let them alone: they be blind leaders of the blind. And if the blind lead the blind, both shall fall into the ditch” (Mat 15:14).

Furthermore, truth can be seen as both hostile and divisive. The hostility arises from the clash of conflicting beliefs and is often directed toward truth tellers, (cf. 1Cor 22:21,22). Despite its divisive nature, truth brings joy to believers who embrace it, (Acts 13:48).

The Bible presents truth as a constant, exclusive, and unchanging entity that can be divisive and troubling to those who choose to turn away. While the truth may offend some, it remains a source of joy and happiness for those who embrace it wholeheartedly. The truth shall set you free.

Agape,

Spencer

This article is part 2 of a series titled, God’s Moral Law. click here for part one.

You’re invited to attend one of our services at the church of Christ on Franklin and Juniper in Borger Texas.

Mark 2, Jesus is God

The Preacher 2 Comments

Mark may be the shortest of the Gospels, but what it contains often has more detail than the other synoptic Gospels.

Mark chapter two is a great chapter because of the significant teachings from Jesus. It’s also easy to outline by looking at the 4 questions asked of Him.

  • Who can forgive sins but God alone? (2:7).
  • How is it that he eateth and drinketh with publicans and sinners? (2:16).
  • Why do the disciples of John and of the Pharisees fast, but thy disciples fast not? (2:18).
  • Why do they on the sabbath day that which is not lawful?” (2:24).

In answering these questions Jesus teaches one of the greatest lessons in the Gospels. The lesson is that Jesus is God.

The second chapter of the Gospel of Mark is a rich tapestry of events and dialogues that offer profound insights into the ministry of Jesus Christ.  

“Who can forgive sins but God alone?” (2:7). The Pharisees were quick to question Jesus’ authority when He forgave the sins of a paralytic man. Their query (stated privately in their head), “Who can forgive sins but God alone?” reflects a fundamental theological concern. The forgiveness of sins is an exclusive prerogative of God, and the Pharisees were wary of any challenges to this divine authority. In answering, Jesus reveals His power to know the thoughts and intents of the heart and the power to forgive sins. By healing the paralytic He proves His deity. He directly states why He did it, “But that ye may know that the Son of man hath power on earth to forgive sins, (he saith to the sick of the palsy,) I say unto thee, Arise, and take up thy bed, and go thy way into thine house. And immediately he arose, took up the bed, and went forth before them all; insomuch that they were all amazed, and glorified God, saying, We never saw it on this fashion” (2:10-12).

“How is it that he eateth and drinketh with publicans and sinners?” (2:16). In the cultural context of that time, sharing a meal signified more than a casual encounter; it symbolized acceptance. His response highlighted the core of Jesus’ mission – to seek and to save the lost, which is a demonstration of the divine Love of God that transcends social boundaries. The Pharisees wouldn’t stoop down to reach out to the lost, but God does.

“Why do the disciples of John and of the Pharisees fast, but thy disciples fast not?” (2:18). Fasting was a point of contention between the Pharisees, and Jesus’ disciples. The question sought to understand the apparent disparity in their observance of this spiritual discipline. Jesus, in his response, likened himself to a bridegroom, indicating that while the bridegroom is present, it is a time of joy, not mourning. It was an early lesson about the coming end of the Old Law and the coming in of the prophetic New Testament of Christ.

“Why do they on the sabbath day that which is not lawful?” (2:24). The final question revolves around Sabbath observance, a cornerstone of Jewish religious life. The Pharisees were quick to criticize Jesus and his disciples for plucking grain on the Sabbath, an action they deemed unlawful. Jesus targets the weakness of their belief system by pointing out the error of David, someone they held in high esteem. Jesus doesn’t teach situation ethics, He points out their willingness to overlook the sins of David, but unwilling to recognize the innocence of David’s Royal Divine Son. “But I say unto you, That in this place is one greater than the temple. But if ye had known what this meaneth, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice, ye would not have condemned the guiltless” (Matt 12:6,7).                                                                               

Agape,

Spencer

This is part of a series of sermons preached at the Franklin & Juniper st church of Christ in Borger, Texas. Click here for Mark 1.

The Sure STONE

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“Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD, Behold, I lay in Zion for a foundation a stone, a tried stone, a precious corner stone, a sure foundation: he that believeth shall not make haste.” (Isaiah 28:16).

In this language we hear the voice of God predicting the coming of the Messiah who is described as a “sure foundation.”

God has used this language of building before. “And when thy days be fulfilled, and thou shalt sleep with thy fathers, I will set up thy seed after thee, which shall proceed out of thy bowels, and I will establish his kingdom. He shall build an house for my name, and I will stablish the throne of his kingdom for ever” (2Sam 7:12, 13).

It’s axiomatic that before building of any structure one must begin with a foundation that is strong, level, and sure. Every other building block will be aligned to the foundation.

We’re speaking about a spiritual building which is divine in origin, and therefore worthy to be built upon.

The OT prophecies identify Jerusalem as the place of the building, also called SION (ZION). “I lay in Zion.” This is a Synonym for the Jewish nation, Jerusalem in particular. Jesus was a Jew, of the family of David (Matt 1). In Jerusalem He was crucified, Buried, and raised. In Jerusalem the gospel was 1st preached. (Acts 2). “And he shall be for a sanctuary; but for a stone of stumbling and for a rock of offence to both the houses of Israel, for a gin and for a snare to the inhabitants of Jerusalem” (Isaiah 8:14). Many at that time expected a physical building, but God laid the foundation to a spiritual building in Jerusalem. This continues to be a common error of denominationalism.

Jesus said, “I will build my church.” and “My kingdom is not of this world.” (Matt 16:18; John 18:36). Jerusalem (Zion / Sion) is the place where the spiritual kingdom of God would begin. Prophecy prevents Jesus from having a physical building & throne in Jerusalem. “Thus saith the LORD, Write ye this man childless, a man that shall not prosper in his days: for no man of his seed shall prosper, sitting upon the throne of David, and ruling any more in Judah” (Jer 22:30).

Isaiah says that this would be a TRIED Stone. A tried stone is a stone for solidarity, for strength, for duration. Jesus was tried by Satan, by men, and by God. “For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin” (Heb 3:15).

While there are many stones in a building, there is only ONE foundation stone. It is of Precious value to God, the Father. The ONLY begotten Son, (John 1:14; 3:16; Mark 1:11). Precious to Man, the believer (1Pet 2:7). The ONLY sufficient sacrifice, (1Pet 1:18,19). The ONLY hope of salvation. “This is the stone which was set at nought of you builders, which is become the head of the corner” (Acts 4:11,12).

Christ is the chief cornerstone. The cornerstone is the NUMBER ONE stone. His position is chief (Col 1:18). He has the Preeminence. The chief cornerstone unites both sides of the edifice. He is Deity & Humanity, the old and the new dispensations. He brings together both Jew & Gentile united in HIM (Eph 2:19,20).

We are warned about how we build. “Except the LORD build the house, they labour in vain that build it: except the LORD keep the city, the watchman waketh but in vain” (Psalm 127:1). We must be careful to build on this stone.

Agape,

Spencer