SATURDAY January 16, 2021

Are You Pleasing Men or God?

Galatians 1:10

What an Epistle Paul wrote to the churches of Galatia! As an Apostle of Jesus Christ, he made such a great impact in the Church. Paul had a real concern for people. It must have been hard for Paul to see disciples of Christ turning away from the true Gospel of grace to a different gospel. He knew some of the disciples had fallen into the hands and influence of false teachers. These false teachers twisted the Gospel to a gospel of works, whereas Paul preached a Gospel of grace.

Those opposing the truth of the Gospel preached a gospel that pleased men. Paul determined within his heart to preach the Gospel of truth. He did not want to please men, but to please God; otherwise, he would not be a true disciple of Christ––a bondservant. Paul desired for those who had come to Christ in Galatia to share the Gospel of grace with boldness. They should not be intimidated or afraid to speak the truth.

Today, there are pastors who preach a social gospel. They do not want to offend people and refuse to mention the word––sin. These preachers keep everyone comfortable and their churches full, but they will not preach the truth. In doing so, they give people a sense of false security. They please men when they need to please God. I want my preaching to be uncomfortable. Why? I want to see people in heaven and not in hell.

When you disciple a person, you love them and pour into their lives; and when they turn away to another gospel, it is heartbreaking. You know God had touched and anointed their lives. Like Paul, perhaps you have attempted to speak with them. After hearing the lies of Satan and his adversaries, often they will not listen to you. They are trapped. Unless they are rescued by the true Gospel of Christ, they are on their way to hell.

As you make yourself available to be used by God, He will still give you opportunities to share the love of Christ with them––the only Gospel.

But as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, even so we speak, not as pleasing men, but God who tests our hearts.
~1 Thessalonians 2:4~

FRIDAY January 15, 2021

Who Is Jesus Christ?

Matthew 16:13

Jesus was on His way to Jerusalem with Peter, James and John. He stopped in Caesarea Philippi, at a place known for pagan worship––a cave, an endless stream of water, and a huge mountainous rock. Here Jesus asked an important question: “Who do men say that I, the Son of Man, am?” His Disciples answered: “Some say John the Baptist, some Elijah, and others Jeremiah or one of the prophets” (Matthew 16:13-14).

In Matthew 16:15, Jesus asked His Disciples a direct and personal question, “But who do you say that I am?” Notice, Peter had a divine revelation, and he made this immediate confession:

“You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” Jesus answered and said to him, “Blessed are you, Simon Bar-Jonah, for flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but My Father who is in heaven” (Matthew 16:16-17).

When Jesus Christ was under trial and questioned by the high priest, He claimed to be the Son of God: … “I put You under oath by the living God: Tell us if You are the Christ, the Son of God!”  Jesus said to him, “It is as you said” (Matthew 26:63-64). Jesus claimed to be the Messiah––the Christ. He also claimed to be the Son of Man:  “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many” (Mark 10:45). This title speaks of His human nature.

Jesus further claimed to be the fulfillment of all the Old Testament promises (Luke 24:44). Jesus also claimed to be the Savior of the World (Luke 19:10). He paid the price for our redemption. He is both Teacher and Master (John 13:13-14). He claimed to be God (John 10:30, 36), and, as such, has authority to forgive sins (Luke 5:17-23; John 8:34-36).

Christianity is personal. Every person has to make a personal confession of Jesus Christ. As they come to Him by faith, they receive eternal life

For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.
~Romans 10:10~

THURSDAY January 14, 2021

One God, One Mediator

1 Timothy 2:5-6

Jesus is the Mediator, the Bridge Builder between God and man. Man tries to avoid Christ as the Mediator. He tries to receive salvation in other ways. Religion is man’s way of trying to reach God.

If you study Catholicism, there are areas of deception in what they teach, especially concerning Jesus and Mary. Catholics are taught Mary is an intercessor. She is the mediator who brings them to Jesus Christ. A priest may explain that Mary is just like a friend. Yet in truth, we can pray directly to Jesus because He alone is our Mediator.

Although the Roman Catholic Church believes Jesus is God, they teach worship of Mary. Although sincere in what they preach, Mary becomes the focus rather that Jesus. Jesus is our only Mediator. I remember going to the Catholic Church, and in the confessional, I spoke to the priest about my sins. He would tell me to pray certain prayers for forgiveness. That is religion. Only Jesus Christ can forgive sinners by divine atonement, through His blood shed for you on Calvary––on the Cross. He alone claimed to set men free from sin (John 8:36).

Unitarianism believes there is no Trinity. Jesus is not the Christ, and the crucifixion is not seen as a blood sacrifice for sin. The Muslim religion of Islam is a monotheistic belief in the supreme deity––Allah. Their prophet is Mohammad. Jesus is not God, but only one of 124,000 prophets.

The truth you find in the Bible will expose false doctrines––all the misinformation and lies they spread. If you study the Bible, you will come to know the truth––Christ is the Savior of the world.

You must make your choice: either this man was, and is, the Son of God, or else a madman or something worse. You can shut him up for a fool, you can spit at him and kill him as a demon; or you can fall at his feet and call him Lord and God. But let us not come with any patronizing nonsense about his being a great human teacher. He has not left that open to us. He did not intend to.
~C. S. Lewis~

WEDNESDAY January 13, 2021

The Way, the Truth, the Life

John 14:6

Jesus made a very clear statement. He did not say there are many ways to God. He said there was only one way to God! It is important to recognize doctrines that state otherwise because they are false.

Christian Science is a religious system of healing, founded by Mary Baker Eddy in 1879. Christian Scientists believe that Jesus was a human who demonstrated the Christ Spirit which is ideal truth. Christian Scientists do not believe Jesus is God. They do not believe in the same Jesus as we do, and they do not speak the truth about God.

Mary based her interpretation of Scriptures by asserting disease, sin and death may be overcome by understanding and applying the divine principles of Christian teaching. She believed sickness was an illusion that can be overcome by prayer, and taught a health and wealth doctrine.

The Jehovah’s Witnesses’ organization became legally incorporated by Charles Taze Russell in 1884. It was then known as The Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society. He rejected much of the teaching of orthodox Christianity and instead, built his own system of interpretation. His ideas were widely circulated in a seven-volume study of Scripture by the Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society.

Jehovah’s Witnesses believe Jesus is not God. He was created by Jehovah, born as a man, and became the Messiah in 30 AD. They do not believe in the Trinity––the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. Jehovah’s Witnesses constantly walk the streets and knock on doors to ask you to read their Watchtower magazines. I always tell them, “Why not just read the Bible? We do not need magazines.” Be careful with people who try to sell to you some other gospel––another Jesus.

It should be carefully noted that Jesus did not say, "I am one of the equally good ways" or "I am a better way than the others, I am an aspect of truth; I am a fragment of the life." Instead, His claim was absolute, and allegiance to Him as the Savior of the world, was to take precedence over all the claims of men and religions.
~Walter Martin~

TUESDAY January 12, 2021

The Preaching of Other Gospels

Galatians 1:9

In the church of Galatia, Judaizers who were traditionalist and legalist had begun to manipulate people. Instead of a belief in faith and grace, they took them away from the true Gospel of Jesus Christ to a gospel of works.

There are deceptive doctrines today that still preach a message of works. Many people try to get to heaven through works––Jesus plus something else. Not so! Seriously, some of your family members may belong to other religions, and you need to know what you believe and where you stand in the truth of God––in faith and grace––so you can be a witness to them.

In Mormonism, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter–Day Saints claims to be the restoration of the church established by Jesus Christ. The founder was Joseph Smith, born in Sharon, Vermont, in 1805. It has no association in any way with Roman Catholicism or Protestantism, and in many respects, it is entirely unique among Christian denominations.

In 1820, Joseph Smith reported that he saw his first heavenly vision. Two persons appeared to him, and one spoke to him by name and said: “Behold this is my beloved Son hear him.” Where have we heard that before? It was at the baptism of Jesus (Matthew 3:17). Mormons believe Jesus is one of many gods, and He is Satan’s brother! One day, they will become a god with their own planet. A Mormon proclaims they are a Christian. I always point out to them and say, “If you are a Christian, why not just read the Bible, and not the book of Mormon! You do not need it!”

Mormonism is a system of religion that is known world-wide. Mormon missionaries will ride their bicycles and knock on doors for two years. They are sincere people, but because they do not have Jesus Christ, they will end up in hell because of false information. They did not get the right information. Joseph Smith was a false prophet! Make sure you have the right information given to you; otherwise, why believe?

A biblical false prophet was a servant of the devil attempting to lead people away from the truth.
~Walter Martin~

MONDAY January 11, 2021

Let Him Be Accursed

Galatians 1:9

Among the churches in Galatia, there were those who had made a decision to accept Christ, but they went back from faith into Law and works. They became false teachers who came against the true principles of faith. Paul engaged in a fierce battle for the truth of the Gospel to make sure that believers in Galatia understood their true Christian liberty in life.

False teachers spread false doctrines––a mixture of Law and grace. Paul would not stand by idly; he would fight the good fight against these Judaizers as they were causing great confusion in the churches. They were distorting the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Judaizers taught Gentiles that they must become Jews and be circumcised before they could become Christians and join the church. Jewish and Gentile were righteous before God, only if they remained bound under the Laws and regulations and ceremonies of Judaism. Paul, in his letter, preached against all these things and would not yield to them:

Yet not even Titus who was with me, being a Greek, was compelled to be circumcised. And this occurred because of false brethren secretly brought in (who came in by stealth to spy out our liberty which we have in Christ Jesus, that they might bring us into bondage), to whom we did not yield submission even for an hour, that the truth of the gospel might continue with you (Galatians 2:3-5).

Paul stated the gravity of the situation, and in Galatians 1:8, he warned: But even if we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel to you than what we have preached to you, let him be accursed. The Greek word for accursed is the word “anathema.” It means “to be cursed––sent to the lowest hell.” If false teachers tried to preach anything else other than grace––the unmerited favor given to us by God, Paul condemned them.

Every doctrine that is not embedded in the
Cross of Jesus will lead astray.
~Oswald Chambers~

SUNDAY January 10, 2021

The Only Gospel

Galatians 1:8

Under inspiration, Paul stated that the Gospel of Jesus Christ is the only Gospel that can save a person. These legalists professed to be Christians, yet they would tell Gentile believers, they needed to be circumcised to become a Christian. That is law! Legalism!

These false teachers tried to bring anyone living according to the grace of God back into bondage to the Law. In doing so, they violated the simplicity of free grace as taught in the preaching of the Gospel. Instead, they insisted on obedience to the Mosaic Law, insisting that this was what God recommended to become a Christian. That is not true! In Galatians 2:16, Paul declared his argument to those in Galatia:

…knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law but by faith in Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Christ Jesus, that we might be justified by faith in Christ and not by the works of the law; for by the works of the law no flesh shall be justified.

Understand, no one who lived according to the Ten Commandments or any legalistic ordinances, such as circumcision, will receive salvation. These false teachers preached a Gospel of works. Religious traditions did not give a person salvation; it actually condemned them because they became entangled in legalism.

I have found that legalism continues to be an issue in South America, Europe, some parts of Asia and even here in America. Understand, any person who comes to Jesus by faith becomes a new creation

(2 Corinthians 5:17). Salvation is by faith in Jesus Christ—period. A Christian is set free from the bondage of legalism, and by faith they rest in the finished work of Christ (John 17:4).

Legalism is looking to something besides Jesus Christ in order to be acceptable and clean before God.
~Timothy Keller~

 SATURDAY January 9, 2021

Is There a Different Gospel?

Galatians 1:6-7

Paul wrote a powerful argument against the Jewish, legalistic teachers who tried to undermine the proclamation of the true Gospel of grace. They tried to pervert the Gospel by giving false statements about adhering to the Law. The Gospel of Jesus Christ is the only Gospel that can save a person.

There was a lady and her daughter on a train heading to the north. The woman was very concerned that she would miss her stop. The conductor promised he would tell her when she reached her destination. At first she relaxed, but as her journey continued, she began to become anxious. A passenger seated near her reassured her that conductors get busy–– he was sure to be back soon.

However, after a couple more stops, and in the conductor’s absence, the passenger told her, “Do not worry; I will let you know when to get off the train.” At last, the passenger spoke to the mother. She had arrived at the place where she needed to get off the train. The mother firmly took the hand of her daughter and exited the train. They stood outside in the cold watching the train move away in the distance.

When the conductor returned, he asked the passenger where the woman and child were. The passenger let the conductor know they had safely exited at the last stop. The conductor replied, “No, No, that was the wrong stop!” The passenger had given them the wrong information. Slowly the train reversed back down the track to find them. Sadly, it was too late; they had frozen to death in the snow. The false information they were given proved deadly.

Think of how many people receive false information concerning the Gospel of Jesus Christ. How many people are going to hell because they believe the lie instead of the truth?

As there is only one God, so there can be only one gospel.
~James Denney~

FRIDAY January 8, 2021

Our Deliverance

Galatians 1:4-5

Paul reaffirmed that Jesus Christ is our atonement––our sacrifice for the forgiveness of our sins. Christ accomplished our salvation on the Cross where He suffered and died. Our sins are put away; they are remembered no more. Without Christ we are dead in our sins and on our way to hell:

And you were dead in the trespasses and sins in which you once walked, following the course of this world, following the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work in the sons of disobedience—among whom we all once lived in the passions of our flesh, carrying out the desires of the body and the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, like the rest of mankind (Ephesians 2:1-2 ESV).

Christ delivered us from this present evil world. Satan tries to make us sin so he can take us to hell, but Christ delivered us from sin. Christ has not taken us out of this world but has delivered us from the power of this world, and has made us to sit with Christ in heavenly places:

…God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in trespasses, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), and raised us up together, and made us sit together in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus (Ephesians 2:4-6 ESV).

We are in the world, but we are not of the world––so beautiful. As we are in Christ, our eternal destination has changed. We have inherited eternal life––all because of the grace of God.

God has given every person a will to either reject Him or accept Him. Where does your life stand? In the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, or are you still dead in your sins? Your deliverance, according to the will of God, has been paid for! To Him is the glory for all eternity!

The only way to avoid despair is to place our faith in Jesus Christ
for the salvation God provides.
~R.C. Sproul~

THURSDAY January 7, 2021

Grace and Peace

Galatians 1:2-3

In the very first verses, we read the greeting to the recipients. Paul gave greeting to all the churches in Galatia, in Asia Minor––modern Turkey. In Acts 18:23, he spoke about a journey taken to strengthen the disciples in Galatia.

The name Galatia came from tribes called “the Gaul’s,” a Celtic people that settled in Asia Minor after several centuries of plundering between the Greeks and the Roman Empire. Under Roman rule, the original area of Galatia was made part of a larger Provence––modern Turkey. It encompasses an area of about 300 to 400 miles north to south, and up to 1,000 miles west to east.

Paul wrote this letter to the Galatians on his third missionary journey. In the introduction, you can already tell there were major problems in the church. In Galatia, Paul was combating these false teachers––Judaizers––who taught it was necessary to implement Jewish customs and practices, particularly those found in the Law of Moses, in order to be saved.

In his greeting, Paul mentioned the riches of God’s grace. Grace and peace are the Siamese twins of the New Testament. Grace is always placed first before peace. Grace means “unmerited favor,” and it is actually a Greek salutation, whereas the Hebrew salutation is peace––Shalom. It is important to understand that before you experience the peace of God, you first have to know the grace of God.

By grace you have been saved. What is your present position? It is in Christ. Therefore, there can be no bragging sessions in our testimonies, as we have been saved by grace through faith in Jesus Christ. Grace is a message all the way through the book of Galatians. When there is true faith, there is also grace and peace.

Faith is a living, daring confidence in God’s grace, so sure and certain that a man would stake his life on it a thousand times.
~Martin Luther~

WEDNESDAY January 6, 2021

Preaching the Good News

Acts 9:20-22

Paul preached the Good News of the Gospel. He proved to the Jews living in Damascus that Jesus was indeed the Christ. In the media today, we are constantly hearing bad news; lawlessness is on the rise. It can become very depressing. Innocent people are murdered, even in broad daylight, and women are abducted and raped. There is so much crime happening all across America. In politics, the American people are hearing bad news about corruption and deception that exist within our government. It is very disheartening when we hear of all the filth, perversion and dishonesty happening in our nation.

These days, there is nothing from the news media that brings us comfort. We are missing good news. Yet for those who have placed their trust in Jesus Christ as their Savior, they know that no matter what they hear through the airwaves, they have received Good News. The Gospel of Jesus Christ is Good News. Christians need to read the Word of God devotionally––as that is what keeps them going every day!

It is Good News that through Christ’s sacrifice on the Cross, sinners can be forgiven and go to heaven (John 3:16). As a Christian possesses eternal life, they know when they die physically, they will be in heaven. If Jesus Christ did not rise from the dead, there would be no Good News. There would be no hope of eternal life: If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable (1 Corinthians 15:19 KJV).

It is the hope of eternal life that gives us hope: in hope of eternal life which God, who cannot lie, promised before time began but has in due time manifested His word through preaching… (Titus 1:2-3).

Jesus Christ is God in human flesh, and the story of His life, death, and resurrection is the only Good News the world will ever hear.
~Billy Graham~

TUESDAY January 5, 2021

Defense of the Gospel

Philippians 1:17

God humbled Paul and he became converted! He was born again of the Holy Spirit. After Ananias prayed for Paul, he received his sight and was baptized (Acts 9:10-18). God changed his whole life! However, Paul the Apostle, at this time, did not meet with Peter, James and John who were in Jerusalem. In fact, Paul went into the wilderness area of the Sinai––the Arabian Desert. He spent 3 years there while waiting on the Lord to theologically instruct him. When Paul returned and over the course of his life, he wrote 14 doctrinal letters to the Church.

Paul was a Jew and a religious leader—a Pharisee. As such, the disciples of Christ in Damascus knew he had zealously persecuted Christians. After a short stay in Damascus, he finally came to Jerusalem to see Peter, but many of Christ’s disciples there still did not trust him. They also knew of his reputation––he had killed Christians!

In Acts 9:26, we read their fearful response to his arrival: And when Saul had come to Jerusalem, he tried to join the disciples; but they were all afraid of him, and did not believe that he was a disciple. It was Barnabas who brought Paul to the Apostles; he told them Paul’s testimony and of his bold preaching in Damascus (Acts 9:27).

Later in his ministry, Paul founded the church in Galatia. False teachers had invaded the church and had begun to teach a different message that contradicted what Paul preached. The church was under attack spiritually and doctrinally. Paul knew the message of the Gospel was under assault.

These deceptive men had at one time claimed they had a true conversion to Christ. Now they had turned away from the grace of God and went back into the Law with many regulations. Paul did not defend himself, but he defended the truth of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Paul preached on grace, whereas the false teachers spoke of works––Law, legalism, ceremonies and circumcision.

Are you well versed in the Scriptures so that you can give a defense of the Gospel of Jesus Christ?

There‘s no better book with which to defend the Bible than the Bible itself.
~D.L. Moody~

MONDAY January 4, 2021

The Resurrection

Galatians 1:1

The Resurrection is the most central theme in the New Testament. Without the Resurrection, we have no Gospel at all. Take a good look at the theology Paul wrote to the Romans. Read and consider the full impact of the Resurrection:

Romans 1:1-4: Paul, a bondservant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, separated to the gospel of God which He promised before through His prophets in the Holy Scriptures, concerning His Son Jesus Christ our Lord, who was born of the seed of David according to the flesh, and declared to be the Son of God with power according to the Spirit of holiness, by the resurrection from the dead.

Roman 4:24-25: It shall be imputed to us [righteousness] who believe in Him who raised up Jesus our Lord from the dead, who was delivered up because of our offenses, and was raised because of our justification.

Romans 6:8-9: Now if we died with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with Him, knowing that Christ, having been raised from the dead, dies no more. Death no longer has dominion over Him.

Imagine, Jesus died for our sins and rose again to justify you and me through our faith in Jesus Christ. Consider everything Christ has done for us. We never need to fear death again. Paul with all confidence said: We are confident, yes, well pleased rather to be absent from the body and to be present with the Lord (2 Corinthians 5:8).

Are you fully persuaded that Christ has risen from the dead? If you do not know Jesus Christ as you Savior, perhaps it is time for you to fully believe in Him? Consider Christ’s own powerful words…

“I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live. And whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die. Do you believe this?”
~John 11:25-26~

SUNDAY January 3, 2021

The Most Important Message

Galatians1:1

As an Apostle, Paul proclaimed to people the most important message in the world: For I [Paul] delivered to you first of all that which I also received: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He rose again the third day according to the Scriptures (1 Corinthians 15:3-4). This is Good News! Through faith in Jesus Christ, people are saved.

The Resurrection of Jesus Christ is a central theme given in the Bible, and that truth had deeply affected and changed Paul’s life. It was a message that brought him to his knees to receive God’s grace, mercy and love. Paul was on his way to Damascus to persecute and imprison Christians when the Lord appeared to him. Paul, by divine revelation, had a personal encounter with Christ, and he became converted (Acts 9).

It is important to understand that Paul became one of the Apostles at a later time than the original twelve Disciples. One of the requirements, in order to become an Apostle, was that a person had to be a witness of the Resurrection––they had to have seen Christ: After that He was seen by James, then by all the apostles. Then last of all He was seen by me also, as by one born out of due time (I Corinthians 15:7-8).

Paul actually became the thirteenth Apostle. Judas became Christ’s betrayer and was disqualified. Paul was a chosen vessel of God. He became an Apostle to the Gentiles (Acts 9:15-16). Paul’s message to the churches of Galatia was a declaration of a Christian’s spiritual freedom and deliverance from the bondage of sin and religious legalism.

Salvation is always “good news.” It is news of God’s love and forgiveness—adoption into His family—fellowship with His people—freedom from the penalty of sin—liberation from the power of sin.
~Billy Graham~

SATURDAY January 2, 2021

So Send I You

Galatians1:1

Paul’s name in Roman culture means “little or small one.” A description was given of Paul. He was believed to have been a short man, with a hunched back, bowed legs, and a big hooked nose. It really does not matter what he looked like, because he wrote so powerfully. Paul was one of the most incredible writers of the New Testament.

On Paul’s third visit to Corinth, he wrote a letter to correct the problems happening in Galatia. In defense of the Gospel, Paul related the facts concerning his apostleship. His call was not of men, but of God. Paul became an Apostle. What is an Apostle? An Apostle in the New Testament means “one that is to be sent out.” Paul had become an ambassador and a delegate of the Gospel according to the will of God.

Actually, there are no Apostles or prophets today. The closest person to be known as an Apostle or prophet would be the late Billy Graham. People may ask, “Who ordains a man in the ministry?” They need to understand, it is the Lord who ordains a man. When God calls a person, He anoints them by the Holy Spirit. Therefore, no man can say they have ordained a person. Again, it is God who ordains and anoints people into the ministry.

Over the years, there have been men on staff who have been sent out from our church. After they had become rooted and grounded in the Word of God, a call was placed on their lives. When that happens, we pray for them, lay hands on them, and send them out. It is important to continue to pray for those who have gone out to preach the Gospel to others.

“Prayer is the mighty engine that is to move the missionary work.”
~A.B. Simpson~

FRIDAY January 1, 2021

New Year’s Day

Matthew 2:17-18

This New Year, many opportunities lay before us. Each of us should make plans for the entire year. Let us not waste the time! We need to give God our best in our giving, in our time spent in fellowship with God, and in our prayers. When we place God first then we are fulfilling Matthew 6:33: “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.”

Notice how things have drastically changed in our country. The Covid virus has destroyed many people’s livelihoods and has taken many lives. There are governors in office, who make rules to follow, but they do not follow the rules they are placing on people––they are hypocritical in their decision making. Many adults and children have become isolated and they are suffering from depression. Some have committed suicide––hopelessness has set in.

These are the last days. Will we have socialism in America? Our children are subject to be taught perverted sexual behaviors in the public school system. Pastors could be placed in jail for preaching against sin––it is before us. It could be Christians will have to make a stand for righteousness this year. It is important to have the fear of the Lord, and not the fear of man. This is a time when the body of Christ needs to stick together. It could be Christians will become even more persecuted! Be strong! Be bold in coming to church, be bold in carrying your Bible, and let the Lord add to the Church as many as His wills (Acts 2:47).

The Apostle Paul taught believers to always anticipate the Lord’s soon return. This is an awesome attitude to have in your life. Jesus is coming again! Live each day with that in mind. If the Lord permits, according to His will, there are still so many opportunities to serve Him. However, in this world there is now a lot of opposition. May we be light and salt in this dark world.

What is your vision for this New Year? I know mine is to teach the Word of God, and train up young men in the ministry. We need another revival. Why? Maranatha––Jesus is coming!

When is a revival needed? When carelessness
and unconcern keep people asleep.
~Billy Sunday~

THURSDAY December 31, 2020

Comfortless in Mourning

Matthew 2:17-18

King Herod was greatly troubled when he heard the news of a new King born in the region of Judea. This is where he reigned! Secretly, he inquired of the wise men as to the time the star appeared. Then Herod asked the Magi to bring back word to him when they found the Child. Why? Supposedly, he wanted to worship the Child, but he blatantly lied about his motives (Matthew 2:3-8). King Herod would see to it that this young, rival king would be killed.

Herod had murder in his heart. His pretense of worship was only a cover for his hidden motives. All he wanted to do was destroy the young Child. God warned the wise men in a dream not to return to Herod, so they returned to their own country another way (Matthew 2:12). The angel of the Lord warned Joseph in a dream to flee. He was to take Jesus and His mother Mary to Egypt until the death of Herod (Luke 2:13-15).

As the wise men did not return, Herod, in fury and anger, devised an evil plan to insure the destruction of the young Messiah. He would exterminate the One––named King of the Jews. He had determined the possible age of the Child from the wise men. So Herod ordered the merciless slaughter of all the male children, aged two years old and under, in Bethlehem and its surrounding districts (Matthew 2:16).

The Bible tells us that man’s heart is desperately wicked (Jeremiah 17:9). We live in a world opposed to Christ. Even today, innocent people suffer horrible atrocities because of their love and allegiance to Christ. Only God can comfort those who have suffered the loss of a loved one.

I know nothing which can so comfort the soul; so calm the swelling billows of sorrow and grief; as a devote musing upon the subject of the Godhead.
~Charles Spurgeon~

WEDNESDAY December 30, 2020

Come to Worship Christ?

Matthew 2:1-2

Wise men, Magi, studied the stars using the natural science of astronomy. They had seen a sign, the star of a King in the East, and decided to follow its path into Judea. It is believed the wise men traveled with a large caravan of people for security. Once they arrived, they began to inquire among the people in Judea: “Where is He who has been born King of the Jews?” With all sincerity, these men had come to worship the newborn King.

King Herod sent them to Bethlehem after he had questioned them about the star. The wise men followed the star until it remained right over the house where the young Child was to be found. Their long journey was rewarded; they had found the King! When the wise men came into the house, they saw Jesus with Mary, His mother.

Immediately, all the wise men fell down and worshiped Jesus. In an act of homage, they presented precious gifts to the King. They gave precious gold––representing His royalty, expensive frankincense because they recognized His deity––and myrrh, which related to His humanity and His coming death (Matthew 2:9-11).

Jesus is worthy of our worship. He is our King. Yet there are those in this world who despise Christ (Isaiah 53:3). It is important to understand that only those who know Christ as their Savior and King can truly come to worship Him.

“God is Spirit, and those who worship Him
must worship in spirit and truth.”
~John 4:24~

TUESDAY December 29, 2020

Looking for Redemption?

Luke 2:36-38

Anna was a prophetess who had remained a widow for about eighty-four years. It is important to understand that old age and widowhood never stopped Anna from serving her God. She faithfully served the Lord by fasting and praying in the temple, day and night.

Even though Anna was elderly, she remained spiritually alert. As Simeon spoke a prophecy about Christ, Anna entered the temple. Like Simeon, she also recognized the Child as the Messiah. In that very instant, Anna acknowledged Him and gave thanks to God. She spoke prophetically about Jesus. Anna was well-known among the people, and they would have listened to what she had to say. Those who looked for redemption in Jerusalem would have paid close attention to all she had to say about Christ.

What is redemption? In the Old Testament, the word redemption simply means, “The action of paying ransom for something, or regaining possession by clearing a debt.” The redemptive work of Christ redeems us from the debt of sin. What is the debt for our sin? …the wages of sin is death…. Yet what redemptive benefit do we receive when we accept Jesus as our Savior? …the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord (Romans 6:23).

Are you among those who are looking for redemption?

Jesus Christ is both the only price and sacrifice by which eternal redemption is obtained for believers.
~Jonathan Edwards~

MONDAY December 28, 2020

The Consolation of Israel

Luke 2:25

Simeon was just––his life was governed by God’s high standard of justice. Therefore, in the eyes of the Lord, he was righteous. Simeon was also a very devout man, and he displayed a godly respect for the things of God. Simeon was a true example of a man who feared God.

Simeon patiently waited for the “Consolation of Israel,” a name used for Christ, the long-awaited Messiah. It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit, that he would not see death until he had seen the Lord’s Christ. We do not know how long Simeon waited, but he was led into the temple by the Holy Spirit at the perfect time to see the Child Jesus.

When Joseph and Mary brought the Child into the temple to present Him to the Lord according to the law (Luke 2:22-24), Simeon’s greatest desire was fulfilled. God had kept His promise to Simeon––he saw with his very own eyes the Lord’s Christ. Simeon held the Child in his arms and prophesied that not only was the Christ Child given for the comfort and salvation of Israel, but He would be a light to the Gentile nations as well:

“Lord, now You are letting Your servant depart in peace, according to Your word; for my eyes have seen Your salvation  which You have prepared before the face of all peoples, a light to bring revelation to the Gentiles, and the glory of Your people Israel” (Luke 2:29-32).

Simeon blessed the family and spoke directly to Mary about Jesus’ destiny. He told her of a time in her life when a sword of sorrow would pierce through her––to her very soul (Luke 2:34-35). Simeon spoke of the Cross and the death of Christ. Yet through the Cross there would be the hope of forgiveness. Sinners can be forgiven and reconciled to God.

Release! Signed in tears, sealed in blood, written on heavenly parchment, recorded in eternal archives. The black ink of the indictment is written all over with the red ink of the cross: ‘the blood of Jesus Christ
cleanseth us from all sin.’
~T. De Witt Talmage~

SUNDAY December 27, 2020

Finding Christ

Luke 2:15-16

The shepherds believed the angel of the Lord’s words. The Lord had revealed to them where to find Christ. In unison, they agreed to leave their flocks and fields, and go into a crowded city in search of the Child. They found the Babe, lying in the manger, just as the angel of the Lord had told them.

After they had seen Jesus, they publicly made known what was told them about this Child. Those who heard marveled. Mary, the mother of Jesus, pondered all these sayings in her heart. As the shepherds returned to their flocks of sheep in the fields, they glorified and praised God, not only for the angels they had seen and heard, but for who they had found ––the Babe––Christ Jesus the Lord (Luke 2:17-20). They saw Him with their very own eyes!

Is your life filled with mundane work day after day? Do you feel empty and unfulfilled? You may ask yourself, “Really, is this all there is to life?” Perhaps you have not discovered the wonder of Christ. Life can seem monotonous until you discover the glad tidings of the Babe, wrapped in swaddling cloth, lying in the manger.

If you search for Christ in the Scriptures, you will find Him. You will know the love of God: For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. When you find Christ, you will praise and glorify God for the birth of His Son. In Christ, you will find a new meaning in life—and in death.

Death to the wicked is the King of terrors. Death to the saint is the end of terrors, the commencement of glory.
~Charles Spurgeon~

SATURDAY December 26, 2020

While Shepherds Watched

Luke 2:8-9

On a dark night, shepherds faithfully watched over their sheep. All of a sudden an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord illuminated the darkness about them. They were greatly afraid at the heavenly sight. Imagine, they must have been speechless and covered their eyes to shield themselves from the brightness of the glory. The angel spoke to them:

. . . “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger” (Luke 2:10-12).

These humble shepherds heard the good tidings of Jesus’ birth that night. The angel of the Lord told them the reason for Christ’s coming. The Messiah was to be the Savior––for all people in the world. The evidence could be found for themselves. They could find the Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger in the city of David.

Then instantly the night sky was filled with a multitude of heavenly host––angels praising God and saying: “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men!” (Luke 2:14). It is important to understand God’s heart of love and compassion towards mankind. He desires for everyone to rejoice in this good news! God loves everyone–– not one person is excluded from the opportunity to find peace and salvation through Christ Jesus.

The Savior is found in a manager at Bethlehem, in a carpenter’s shop at Nazareth; amongst the poor and needy is he seen while he sojourns amongst the sons of men.
~Charles Spurgeon~

FRIDAY December 25, 2020

Christmas Day

Luke 2:6-7

Christmas Day is here! It is a glorious day in which we thank God for sending His Son to be the Savior of the world (John 3:16).

Remember, Joseph and Mary looked everywhere for a vacant room to find rest, but every place was filled to capacity. Mary was expecting to have her Baby soon. At last, having found a safe place to stay, Mary went into labor and gave birth to her Son. While in the city of Bethlehem, most people remained oblivious to the wonderful miracle that had taken place––the Savior had been born!

Mary wrapped Jesus in swaddling cloths and gently laid Him in a simple manger. Our Savior, the King of kings, was born and laid in a humble manger used as a trough to feed the animals. Jesus, Creator of the world, entered the world He created. Jesus came for one solitary purpose––the salvation of men.

Imagine what Mary must have pondered in her heart as she held her Baby for the first time in her arms. Mary knew God’s Word––all the wonderful prophecies concerning Him. When she cradled her Child,

I think she must have considered all she was told by the angel Gabriel. Mary must have been amazed.

Sadly, today there are so many people who remain unaware of the true meaning of Christmas. People fill the streets and cities getting gifts for friends and family, but how many of them have stopped to think about God’s greatest gift––God’s Son––given to us? Have you stopped to ponder in your heart about the Savior’s birth, and to rejoice in the gift of salvation He brings?

This Christmas [Day], accept Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord. Give Him the gift that He wants––your heart, your soul, your life.
~Billy Graham~

THURSDAY December 24, 2020

Christmas Eve

Christmas is when we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. Honestly, Christmas to me is every day––I worship God every day. I know children excitedly anticipate opening their gifts under the lighted Christmas tree. These gifts are covered in glistening wrapping paper, decorated with silky ribbons and bright bows––but the best gift is Jesus. He is our salvation.

Traditionally, families attend Christmas Eve church services. Old Christmas carols help us to reflect on the wonders of our salvation. The Christmas carol, Once in Royal David’s City, was written in 1848 as a poem by poet and hymn writer Cecil Frances Alexander:

Once in royal David’s city,
?Stood a lowly cattle shed,?
Where a mother laid her baby?
In a manger for His bed:?
Mary was that mother mild,?
Jesus Christ her little child.

He came down to earth from heaven,?
Who is God and Lord of all,?
And His shelter was a stable,?
And His cradle was a stall;?
With the poor and meek and lowly,?
Lived on earth our Savior holy.

One of the oldest Christmas carols was written in the15th Century by an unknown writer. It is called God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen. It captures the true meaning of our Savior’s birth––and His ability to save us all:

God rest ye merry, gentlemen?
Let nothing you dismay?
Remember, Christ, our Saviour?
Was born on Christmas day?
To save us all from Satan's power?

When we were gone astray?O tidings of comfort and joy…

Jesus Christ became incarnate for one purpose, to make a way back to God that man might stand before Him as He was created to do….
~Oswald Chambers~

WEDNESDAY December 23, 2020

No Room in the Inn

Luke 2:7

Mary and Joseph traveled from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, to Bethlehem (Luke 2:4). The journey of about 90 miles took them through rugged terrain. When they finally arrived in Bethlehem, the streets and inns were jam-packed with people who had traveled far and wide for the worldwide census (Luke 2:1-3).

Joseph and Mary looked everywhere for a room in an inn to find rest, but every place was filled to capacity. Imagine, they must have knocked on so many doors to inquire if there was any place they could lie down and rest. Sadly, there was no room in the inn! In the end, the only location available was a humble stable, where animals where kept.

Jesus knocks on the door of every human heart; He wants to come into their heart and give them salvation. Jesus desires intimate fellowship with them: “Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me” (Revelation 3:20). Salvation redeemed and delivered a person from sin and its punishment of death. Those who are redeemed are set free to know, love and serve God––fully and completely.

Are you too busy with your life to stop and consider the real meaning of Christmas? God has given you a priceless gift––the gift of salvation through His Son (John 3:16). The Holy Spirit continues to convict you of your sin, of righteousness and of judgment (John 16:8). He shows you your desperate need for salvation so that you can escape God’s righteous judgment on sinners.

Do you have room in your life for Christ to become your Savior this Christmas?

The very purpose of Christ’s coming into the world was that He might offer up His life as a sacrifice for the sins of men. He came to die. This is the heart of Christmas.
~Billy Graham~

TUESDAY December 22, 2020

The One Ruler in Israel

Micah 5:2

The prophet Micah prophesied of the Messiah’s birth, in the city of Bethlehem, 500 years before it happened––amazing! How did Micah know about Christ’s birth? God had revealed it to him. Micah told the people of Israel that the Messiah would come from the small town of Bethlehem. He would be the One to be Ruler in Israel. He is God, from everlasting, yet He would come to earth as a small Child. Jesus would leave His heavenly home, His Father’s side, the throne of God, and come down to live among mortal men.

This one verse from the book Micah was used to tell God’s people that God was sending His Son to them. When Jesus was born, He fulfilled this prophecy. Despite the certainty of the Scriptures, it is hard to believe that many among His people did not recognize Him. They missed the miracle of Christ’s birth. Just as God used the prophets of the Old Testament to tell the people of the coming Messiah, God used John the Baptist in the New Testament to point people to Christ (Matthew 3).

Today we have the full counsel of God––the entire Bible from Genesis to Revelation. The Word of God points us right to our Savior. God is so good; in His Word, He has provided, not just one prophecy, but hundreds of prophecies concerning Christ’s birth, death, resurrection and even His imminent return. Through the diligent study of the Scriptures, everyone has an opportunity to come to know Christ.

Christmas is a time to celebrate Jesus’ birth. Salvation has become accessible to you through Christ. You only need to receive the gift of eternal life He brings to you—His salvation!

Miracle of miracles! You, O Christ, that baby in Mary's arms are both God and human being. You make God accessible to me.
~A. W. Tozer~