"Into New Regions"

        "Now after he had seen the vision, immediately we sough to go

        to Macedonia, concluding that the Lord had called us to preach

        The gospel to them"                                                  ACTS 16:10

         Passing through the provinces of Phrygia and Galatia, Paul completes his work of revisiting and strenghtening the churches founded on his first journey. Now he wants to strike out into other areas to establish new churches. But where is he to go?

        We will see that on this second journey, Paul strategy generally is to go to major commercial and administrative cities where there is a Jewish synagogue and from where the Gospel can expand easily. Thus, it appears that his intention in this instance is to head across asia Minor ( modern turkey) in a southwesterly direction to Ephesus, a major Aegean Sea port city. However, Luke tells us Paul and his team "were forbidden by the Holy Spirit to preach the word in (the province of ) Asia we are not told how the Spirit communicates this denial; Dr. Simon Kistemaker, in his commentary on Acts, speculates that Silas, who was a prophet (15:32), received the Spirit directives. In any case, the southwestern corner of Asia is barred to Paul. He then Looks north to the province of Bithynia. Along the southern coast of the Black Sea, but the spirit does not permit him to go in that direction either Essentially boxed in. Paul and his companions keep moving west until they come to the Aegean port city of Troas.

         It is here that God finally provides clearer direction. Paul receives a vision of a Macedonian man, recognizable by his speech  and clothing, pleading with Paul to come and help his people. With that, Paul and his companion ( here identified as "we" for the first time; Luke is now traveling with Paul) make immediate plans to cross the Aegean to the continent of Europe to preach the Gospel there.

        What a clear picture we are given here of Jesus strategically building His church. For reasons that are not specified, it is His will at this time that Paul move into Europe. Bypassing Asia and Bithynia. In just a couple of years, however. As he completes his second journey, Paul will visit Ephesus with the Spirit's blessing (18:19), and the city will be a lengthy stop on his third journey (19:1-20:1). From it all who dwell in the province of Asia will hear the Good News (19:10). And Bithynia,Kistermaker notes, will eventually become a Christian stronghold and the site of several important councils of the church. But in His timing Christ wants Paul in Macedonia and Greece first.

         Paul kept encountering closed doors. Have you ever experience this sort of "prohibitive guidance"? Did you, like Paul, keep the faith and go on seeking God's will as God closes doors to you, thank Him for that grace and move ahead, walking in His revealed will. Patiently He will renew your strength.

          

"A Son in the Faith"

        "A certain disciple was there, named timothy. . . He was well

         spoken of by the brethen who were at Lystra and Iconium."

                                           ACTS 16: 1b-2

        Having began his second missionary journey by passing through syria and Cilicia, Paul now comes to Derbe and Lystra, the cities he visited last on his first journey. He comes to them first on this trip because he is traveling from the east; on his first journey, he came  to then from the west and returned the way he came. He is now beginning to fulfill the stated purpose for his second  journey (Acts15:36). He is also returning to the site of his severest persecution (14:19).

        Luke has little to say about the churches in these cities. But he records Paul's encounter with Timothy, who will become his companion and his "true son in the faith" (1Tim.1:2). Unlike John Mark, with whom Paul would have nothing to do (Acts 15:38), the ostke is impressed by this young man. Timothy is the son of a Greek father and a Jewish mother, Eunice, who is, along with Timothy's grandmother, Lois, had taught him the Scriptures from an early age (2Tim.1; 3:15). These wine  may have become Christian during Paul's first visit and. In turn. Instructed Timothy in the faith. Under this tutelage, his faith grew strong, and he is known to and admired by believers from Derbe to Iconium. He is still very young at this time; even in an epistle written approximately 14 years later, Paul will advise him not to let others look down on him because of his youth (1Timothy 4:12).

        However, Paul faces one major hurdle to enlisting Timothy on his missionary team he is a product of a mixed  marriage, and his father, not being  a Jew, had not had him circumcised. As an uncircumcised son of a Jew, he is an offense to the Jews (there would have been no offense had both his parent been Gentile). Paul, of course, is carrying a degree from the Jerusalem council stating  that cirvumcision is  not necessary for Christian faith, a decision for which he argued strenuously. He will deliver that degree to the churches, helping them greatly (Acts 16:4-5). But Paul is willing to circumcise Timothy in order to take him along and still be able to minister to Jews without giving offense. Is Paul being inconsistent? Not at all. As Dr. Simon Kistemsker notes, "Paul himself wanted to be all things to all people, so that he might win both Jjew abd Gentile for Christ (1Cor.9:1&-23). He expected hat Timothy, a fellow missionary, would do the same." Timothy does, and becomes an invaluable aide to the apostle.

        All believer grow in Christ at varying rates, and those who are you g may be quite mature spiritually, we must not discount the usefulness to Christ of anyone, young or old. Neither should we discount our own abilities because of youth or age. Seem to grow in Christ to the full and to serve Him faithfully no matter what your age.

"Calvin on the will"

       "No one can come to Me unless the Father who sent M

            Me draws him,  I will raise him up at the last day."

                                        John 6:44

       John Calvin is the theilogian most closely associated in popular thought with the denial of the Semi-Pelagian view of free will. The reason is his strong emphasis on the doctrine of predestination. Actually, however, ther is nothing in Calvin's view of election and the associated issues of original sin and free will that was not also in the teaching of Augustine and Martin Luther. But Calvin gets the rap.

       What precisely did Calvin believe about the human will? The popular summary of his teaching known as five Points of Calvinism forn an acronym, TULIP; the T and the U help us answer this question. The T stands for Total Depravity. This description of the condition of fallen beings does not mean that man is as bad as he possibly could be. It dies not mean utter depravity. Rather, it means that man is fallen in every aspect of being; spirit, body, mind, and will. On a hotizontal plane, Calivn said, people can do good for one another. But when it comes to the vertical plane, Calvin said fallen man can do nothing please to God. That leads us to the U, which stands for unconditional Election. Because people can do nothing to please God, they cannot earn His favor. That rules out the view that election is based on God's foreknowledge of people  choosing Him. On the contrary. Cakvin said, if anyone is saved it is stricly on the basis of God's pleasure. He must regenerate the human spirit before it will turn to Him for liberation from sin.

        Calvin was an outstanding Bible scholar and cited many passages of scripture to support his teaching. John 6:63 says, "it is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh profit nothing."'Here Jesus is asserting that the Holy Spirit regenerates those who believe for they have no power in themselves to choose God. He said the same in an even more explicit way in John6:44: "'No one come to Me unless the Father who sent Me draws him."'No one" rules out al, fallen people; "can" speak of ability abd power; come to Me" refers not to a meeting on the roads of judea, but to Christ for sakvation; "unless" speak of a necessary condition; and "the Father draws him" spells out the condition-- the Father must act. This was Calvin's conviction: the human will is absolutely unable to choose God unless He effects a change in the hearts of those He choose.

        How did God draws you to Himself?was it a dlow awakening to your need of Him? Or was it more sudden. Each salvation experience is different, but all are alike in that God is at worm. Drawing to Himself sinful people who never would come otherwise. Thank and praise Him today that He acted upon your heart out of His live ans mercy.

"Today Your Money Talk"

 "Command those who are rich in this present age not to be haughty, nor to trust in uncertain riches but in the living God."

Marlyn and Steven had been married just a few years, and money was tight. But as she looked at their threadbare bedspread, she wanted to replace it. So she decide she would buy a new one with a credit card hoping to somehow find the money to pay it off.

     Her devotional reading for the day suprised her when it pointed her to Proverb 22:26, "If you lack the means to pay, your very bed will be snatched from under you." Marilyn decided not to go into debt for a new bedspread that day.

     Decisions about the way we spend our money are a personal matter between us and the Lord and can be difficult to make. But God hasn't left us without help. He tells us."Honor the Lord with your possessions" (Prov.3:9). and "You cannot serve both God and Money" (Matt.6:24).

     With such truths in mind, we look futher in His word for help to use money wisely. We find this "Beware of covetuousness" (Luke 12:15). Another says. "The borrower is servant to the lender" (Prov.22:7). And in 1 Timonthy we read be "read to give, willing to share" (6:18).

     Money is a big issue. God, who provides for all our needs. Can show us how to use it to bring Him honor.

         

  Lord, sometimes money and finances are overwhelming. It's 

 Hard to know what decisions to make, so please lead me and  give the wisdom to use my finances in a way that pleases You.

       

"For a little while"

       "In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have 

        had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. These have come so that your

        Faith. . . may be proved genuine and result in praise, glory and honor

         when Jesus Christ is revealed.                                       1 Peter 1:6,7

When things are not going quite right, a bit of advice frequently handed out is to keep a stiff upper lip. The advice suggests that there are certain difficulties you can expect in life, and the only way to cope with them is to grit your reeth and make the best of it.

        The Christian has a different view of life's difficulties. First of all, he understands their origin. They result from sin. All problems, all suffering, all sorrows, all difficulties, all misery, all frustations have a common origin. They result from sin. Sin has contaminated the whole human race, and the believer also suffers from that contamination.

         In addition, the Christian has another view of the difficulties he encounter in life. He knows that they are intented for his good. Granted, there are times when this is extremely hard to understand and accept. Yet the Bible stresses this again and again. God sends correction measures into our lives, just as parents do with their. Peter wrote to his readers that the trials which they were encountering had come "so that your faith. . .  May be proved genuine and result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed."

         God's love for us is so great that he wants nothing to lure us from living and abiding in his saving grace. It is our trials in life, our problems, our tribulation which keep us from becoming too wrapped up in worldly affairs. If everything went along smoothly in life, if every day brought nothing but joy and pleasure, if every week and every month were nothing but one big pleasure trip, we would face the grave danger of becoming very attached to this world

         But we are strangers on this earth heaven is our home. The trials of life remind us of this. With the strength God provides, we can endure these trials. The resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead  is  God's assurance that he will give us that strenght. How rich we are that God strengthens us in all the trials of life!

"When He Is Easily Lord"

        "Return, faithless people; I will cure you of backsliding.'

        'Yes, we will come to you, for you are the Lord our God."       

                                     Jeremiah 3 :22

Who is the truly obedient Christian? Is the one whose life exhibits blue-ribbon behavior? Is it the believer who demonstrates the Lord's commands in their possible meadure?

         When we heed the call to begin afresh a life of obedience, we may think that by more Bible study and self- scrutiny we will grow into it. That we assume, obedience will gradually come. That's a mistake. Jeremiah learned this lesson when the Lord said to him, "return. . . I will cure you." God pointed to Himself as the cure. In the Lord's eyes, the truly obedient person is the one who truly longs to know Him.

          God doesn't want our achievements, he want us. God doesn't want our rule keeping, He desires us. But remember, Jesus will never force you or coerce you into obeying. He will never insist on being your Master, Instead, He insist on loving you.

          "In certain moods we wish God would make us do the right

           Thing, but He will not; and in other moods we wish He would

           Leave us alone altogether, but he will not. If we do not keep 

            His commandment, He does not come and tell us we are 

            Wrong,' says Owald Chambers.*

            When you make Jesus the center of your thoughts and the 

            desire of your heart, when you live in adoration of him. . . 

            . . He is easily Lord.

            Father, I know now that the life of cintinual obedience is 

            Impossible without continual fellowship with You. Help me to 

            see that obeying you is perfect liberty and that in turning to you,

            I shall be happy, safe, and free. Have sway over my heart I might

            Turn to You and obey."

Forever friends

       "From one man he made every nation of men, that they should

          inhabit the whole earth; and he determined the times set for

                them and the exact places where they should live."

                                           ACTS 17:26

        Did you catch that?  It's no mistake that you are living in this century, this decade, and this very year. It's no accident that you are residing you see ever day. And is your circle of friends just coincidence? No way. God has determined it.

        Just think. You could hVe easily been born i. Another time, another place. Or you could have been raised on the other side of the country think how different your life would be growing up with a whole new set of childhood friends and neighbors.

        Of all the billions of posibilities, of all the millions of people with who. You could have been best friends, God determined the exact time and place wgere you should live. When you consider this amazing fact your friendships take on a nee and profound significance. God has a special reason, a unique design in each friendship. He chose to surround your life with these certain and treasured dear ones for good reasons.

        As Christians, these are the people with who. You will live for eternity, enjoying as even greater dimension of friendship. Because God has placed you togerher on earth at this time and this place, you and has placed you and has placed you together on earth at this time and in this place, you and your friends have a chNce to get a head start on God's eternal plan.

       Father I stand i awe at your wisdom and ways. You could have

       Placed me anywhere on this earth, but You determined that I

       should  Live here and now teach me what this means. Show 

       me your special design for my friend and family. And thank You

       that each person You put in my life is precious in your eyes.

"Bland Believers"

              "I will search Jerusalem with lamps and punish 

                   the men who are settled in complacency."

                                     Zephaniah 1:12

Have you  sipped yesterday's coffee? Or slurped warm ice cream? Both are tepid. Neither one tastes the way it should! Disappointingly, the aren't what you expect.

         It's the same way with our zeal for  God. Perhaps before you knew the lord, you were very  cold to spiritual things. Then, when you finally came to truth and began your walk with the Lord, you were on fire burning hot, perhaps.

         Sadly, many believers over time become complacent, content, and lukewarm. Complacency is a serious spiritual condition. In fact, God looks at apostay with anger but it is indifference that makes Him sick.

         Do you srttle for what is convenient and comfortable, instead of being bold and speaking truth? Do you compromise your  belief and behavior because you feat offending others?

         Perhaps your fsith has become lukewarm. Ask God to ignite this fire within your heart so He can revive the lukewarm parts of your life. You will become zealous and committed in your drawing near to Him in prayer and eorship.

         My zeal has consumed me, because my enemies have forgotten your words.

         Psalm 119:139

"Distressed By Idolatry"

 "Now while Paul waited for them at Athens, his spirit was provoked within him when he saw that the city was given over to idols"

                                                                               ACTS 17 : 16

It must best timing experience for Paul to come to Athens, the intellectual center of the first-century world. As a native and longtime resident of the educational center of Tarsus, and as one who was reared and educated by leading Jewish thinkers in Jerusalem, he is comfortable in academic circles. Though Athens has lost much of its politcal and commercial influence since Roman conquered it in 146 B.C. It remains a major center of art, literature, and philosophy. 

        Buf Paul discovers that the city is thoroughly, sickeningly devoted to pagan idolatry. Luke says the city is  "given over" to false gods. "In spite of its distinction of being the center of learning and artistry, this city. Exceeded all others in spiritual blindness and indulged in unrivaled idolatry." Dr. Simon Kistemaker writes in his commentary on Acts. Luke says Paul's spirit is "provoked" by this situation; other Bible translations render his action. As "greatly disressed" (NIV) and "stirred" (KJV). Perhapshe is offended by this large-scale affront to God and moved to compassion for the misguided people (Matt.9:36). In any event, he realizes he cannot kerp silent, and he begins to reaso. In the synagogue with the Jews and God-fearers, and in the marketplace with anyone he encounters.

       The maketplace is where Athens' philosophers gather to debate, and Paul's words are heard by the Epicureans, who teach that every being seeks happiness by maximizing pleasure and minimizing pain; and the Stoics, who teach that humans find happiness by accepting their fate submissively. They disdainfully call Paul a "babbler," and in their ignorance of Christisnity they mistakenly assume he is speaking of two gods (Jesus and Anastasis, Greek for 'resurrection"). They then take him to the Areopagus, literally the "hill of Ares." The governing council once met there; and the name became attached to the council even when it met elsewhere; it appears that Paul is taken before the council, not to the hill. This council supervise education to ensure that new teaching didnot constitute a threat to the state; its members ask to hear Paul's doctrine that they might pass judgement on it. But they are curious , too, for, as Luke notes, they love ti hear new things. So the door is opened for the Gospel to be preached to the governing council in the cultural center of the world. (Acts 17:16-21),

"MOTIVE OF HEART"

         "Not by works of righteousness which we have done, 

                   but according to His mercy He saved us"

                                           Titus 3:5

Are you involved in various activities at your church with the mistaken purpose of ensuring your place in  Heaven? Those activities may be valuable as good deeds, but none of us can work our way into Heaven.

         In the early days of the church, the nee believer fellowshipped and prayed together. They lived God and their outflow of devotion to Him waa expressed in their love for one another. Sadly,that initial passion faded in time and was replaced by effort. Through history, many "good deeds" have been done with a desire tolease God, but that doesn't always ensure that He is genuinely pleased with such effort!

         The Scriptures teach us that God looks on our hearts, and He loves to see us glowing with passion for his work, His will and His people.

         Do you sometimes struggle with doing more rather than loving God more? The Lord looks at the motives of the heart, not the sweat of the brow. Serve the Lord because you love Him, not because of what you might earn.

         For you do not desire sacrifice, or else i would give it,

          you do not delight i  burnt offering. The sacrifice of 

        God are a broken spirit, a brokenand a contrite heart

        these, O God, you will not despise Psalm 51:16,17

"Bring people to Jesus"

"He first found his own brother Simon and said to him, " We have found the Messiah"

(Which is translated, the Christ).

JOHN 1:41(KJV)

  People become known for many things. Noah is known as a righteous man in an evil age. David is known as the man after God's own heart. Peter is known outspoken disciple. John is known as the disciple whom Jesus loved. Judas is known as the betrayer. Paul is known as fearless of the gospel. Andrew is known for bringing other to Jesus.

  The first person andrew brought to Jesus was his brother peter. As soon as Peter joined the disciple, he became the spokenperson for the Twelve, while Andrew remained in the background. It was Peter, not Andrew, who rose to prominence as one of Jesus' inner circle of three. We do not read of Andrew resenting Peter, it seems he was satified to bring others to Jesus and leave the result to Him.

   It is not surprising that Andrew found the boy with the boy with the loaves  and fishes and brought him to Jesus (John 6:8-9). Andrew brought Greeks to Jesus, even though they were despised by pious Jews (John 12:20-22). There is no record of ever preaching a sermon, performing a miracle, or  writng a book of Scripture. He is remembered for those whom he brought to Jesus.

  Andrew is a good role model for us. Our job is not to transform people into Christians nor to convict them of their sin. It is not our responsibilty to make people do what they ought to do.

   Our task is to bring them to Jesus, and He will perform His in divine work in their lives.

" Hidden from the Wise"

 "In that hour Jesus rejoiced in the Spirit and said, "I thank You, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that You have hidden These things from the wise and prudent and revealed them to babes. Even so, Father, for so it seemed good in Your sight."

 LUKE 10 : 21

 One hindrance to hearing a word from God may be our own wisdom. Wisdom, like success, can delude us to think we should take the role of teacher rather student. Our knowledge lulls us into thinking we have sufficient wisdom to meet any challenge. Believing we are wise unaware of how much growth is still required in ourselves.

     The Pharisees were the religious experts of their day. They possessed much information about God, but they had no personal relationship with Him. Their knowledge clouded their view of their condition before God. Jesus thanked His Father that it was not to these "expert" that the Father had revealed spiritual truth, but rather to those were humble and who recognized their need for God's revelation.

     When religious leaders experience spiritual failure, their down fall is often met with surprise. It shouldn't be. Religious people with the most knowledge can easily lead to pride, and pride impedes us from seeking God.

      How do you know if you are a "pharisee"? When you do not have a teachable spirit. When you become defensive if a fellow Christian shares a concern about your spiritual condition. When you do not seek to hear from God, believing you already know what He thinks. When you feel that you are capable of helping others in their spiritual lives, your actions and pinns others thinking that was right for you and in the sight of God. But no one teach you anything. Don't allow the limited knowledge you now have to blind you to the great truths God still wants to reveal to you. Next time make it straight so we can run the race that is in us.

" Fearlessness"

       "Pray also for me, that whenever I open my mouth, words 

        may be given so  that I  will  fearlessly  make  known the

         mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in 

         Chains. Pray that I may deckare it fearlessly, as I should"

                                                             ---Ephesians 6 : 19-20

        The apostle Paul may be considered one of the most bold and courageous ambassador of the Gospel, but even he got butterflies in his stomach. In one paragraph, he twice asks for prayer for courage i. Sharing the truth of the Gospel. How odd to think that even the great apostle felt fear 

         We can identify with Paul's struggle. When it cmes to declaring the Gospel, whether pointing an unbeliever ti Christ, or exposing sin in the life of a fellow believer, many would rather drop broad hints abd hope tgat the Holy Spirit would do the rest. Often we are an emotional mixed bag, fearful of saying the right thing in the wrong place or the wrong thing in the right place

        Sometimes we are fearful of not only de karing the Gospel but of demonstrating it. Compassion may have suited our Lord, but perhaps we would rather drop coins in a Salvation Army bucket and remain at an arm's-length distance from people with real hurts

        Fear is natural for humans. Fearlessness is a supernatural grace God gives when we, like Paul, pray and ask for courage.

        We may fumble wutb what to say. When and how to say it; we 

        May struggle with what to do, when and how to do it. That's 

        Why prayer is the best preface to either declaring of demon-

        strating the Gospel. The Lord is our resources for courage.

        Lord, I need Your courage today. Help me to look for opportunities

        To make known Your Gospel. And when I open my mouth, please

        Give me words so that I can fearlessly declare and demonstrate

        Your Gospel of love.

"WHOSE SIDE ARE YOU ON"?

       "So I say, love by the spirit, and you will not gratify the desires

         Of the sinful nature. For the sinful nature desires whphat is

        Contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the 

         Sinful nature. The are in conflict with each other"

                                                                   --Galatians 5 : 16-17

         Remember the old game of Tug-of -War? Line up the strongest guys on your side, wait for the signal, then dig your heels in, strain hard, and pull till it hurts.

         I think of Tug-of-War when I consider the average Christian's daily experience. It's like two forces that wrench you in a fierce contest of push-and-pull--- the Holy Spirit pushes you up and the flesh pulls you down. It's constant struggle to crucify the flesh and keep walking in the spirit. To starve the old and feed the nes. To reckon yourself dead to sin abd alive to God 

         And who wins? It depends on whose side you choose to be. In this contest you are on one side or the other and never in the middle. Every day you're either following the claims of your fallen nature or believing the promises of God. Who prevails in this contest depends on the attitude you adopt toward either side.

        

         Every mo ent of the day, each devision you make, every

         Choice and every thought is a chance to crucify the old 

         and encourage the new. Remember, you can't be neutral,

         you can't renain in the middle. You are either walking in the 

        Spirit or you're not.

        

         Lord, as I begin this day. I want to choose you and your 

         Promises. As each hour, each moment passes, help me 

        to keep choosing to walk in Your Spirit and thereby starve

        The desires of my sinful nature. I praise You for the difference 

        You will make in my life.

         

"AT A LOSS FOR WORDS"

       "Above the expanse over their heads was what looked like a Throne

        of sapphire, and high above on the throne was a figure like that of a

          man. I saw that from what appeared to be his waist up he looked 

            like glowing metal, as if full of fire, and that from there down he 

              looked like fire; and brilliant ligh surrounded him."

                                               EZEKIEL 1:26--27    

        How would you describe God the Father? Try gropping for the right words and you'll fall short because He's not exactly like anything or anybody. 

        The prophets strained to come up with words to describe what they saw.

       A. W. Tozer puts  it this way, "when the Spirit would acquaint us with something that lies beyond the field of our knowledge, He tells us that this thing is like something we already know....."

       Even when Ezekiel hunted through his dictionary for adequate nouns and adjective to describe God, he to fall back on language that was old and familiar. Thus he talk about likes about something that looks like a throne or someone who looks like fire. In  fact, read the first chapter of Ezekiel and you'll discover that the nearer the prophet approached God, the less sure was of his words!

       

           When you read a book like Ezekiel, Daniel, or even the book

           Of Revelation, please don't be confuse by the strange and 

           Mysterious descriptions of God, or heaven, or terrifying

           Accounts of the last days. These descriptions are man's 

           best effort to explain the unexplainable. Instead of avoiding 

           Those books rejoice that your God is high and lifted up, and

            Never be reduced to terms that we can manage.

            Great and Sovereign Father, I acknowledge that your Glory and 

            Majesty cannot be reduced to mere words. Yet I feel I must 

           offer up words about how great and grand you are. Teach me

           To know what I cannot know and  let my faith take over when 

           word fail me.

         

"THE CRITICAL DIFFERENCE"

   "Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and Falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice  and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecute the prophets who were before you.

                                                                    MATTHEW 5: 11-12

     It was built for an international exposition in the last century and called "monstrous" by both critics and citizens. They loudly demamded the structure be torn down as soo. As the 1889 expisition closed. Yet from the moment its architect first conceived the structure, was destined for greatness.

      Today it stands as one of the architectural wonders of the modern world. It has become the primary landmark of Paris, France. The architect, of course, was Alexander Gustave Eiffel. His famous structure? The Eiffel Tower.

      Jesus Christ was loyal to another Structure--- the Church. He entrusted the building of the Church to an unlikely band of disciple, whom He defended, prayed for, and prepared to take the Gospel to the far- reaching corners of the world. To outsiders, the disciple of Jesus probably had a reputation as ignorant, politically weak, religiously untrained, disorganized, and in moments, blundering idiots. But Jesus, the architect of the Church, knew His structure was destined for greatness.

     Being a Christian has never been politically correct." Critics through the years have compiled a list of derigatory names to call the Church and its members. In spite of criticism, however, we are instructed to carry on. We are to persist in building the body of Christ until His return. As we build, we can be assured see will please God and He will bless us.

     The famous Finnish composer Jean Sibelius once consoled a young musician who had received a bad review by saying, "Remember, son, there is no city in the world where they have errected a statue to a critic."

     Jesus said,  I will build my church; and the gates of hell will not prevail against it" (Matthew 16:18). One day the Church will be the ones left standing. What will the critics say then? 

        No matter what comes your way today, be proud you are a member of Jesus' Church!

"As To The Lord"

       "With good will render service, as to the Lord, and not to men.

                                         EPHESIANS 6 : 7

        When we think of the most profession, we nearly always think of those  that offer a service, such as doctors, lawyers, or teachers. Pershaps at the pinnacle of the service professions are those who are involved in full-time ministry -- the helping of others in their spiritual lives in the name of the Lord. We tend to reverse most highly those who make a commitment to serving God and others: pastors, priests, monks, missionary, evangelists, and Bible teacher

        Ministry, however, is not limited to those who earn their living by it. Ministry is the call and challenge of God to all Christians. Ministry is giving to others and living our lives as unto the Lord

         Ministry happens in the home, in the school, on the street, at the grocery store, in the boardroom, at the committe meeting, and in the gym. It happens whenever and whenever a person, motivated by the love of Jesus Christ, performs an act of loving service for another person

                Gandhi once wrote:

                If when we plunge our hand unto a bowl of water,

                 Or stir up the fire with the bellows

                 Or tabulate interminable columns of figureson our

                            Biikkeeping table,

                 Or, burnt by the sun, we are plunged in the mud 

                             of the rice field,

                 Or standing by the smelter's furnace

                 We do not fulfill the same religious life as if in prayer

                 In a monastery, the world will nver be saved."

                There is no ignoble work except that which is void of 

                ministry! There is no lack of meaning in any job

                 Performed with God's love and "as unto the Lord."

                 Whenever the tasks you today, perform them as if 

                 You were performing them for Jesus Himself, 

                 Because ultimately you ate!

"SPIRiTUAL. FRESH"

                       "Watch stand fast in the faith, be brave, be strong"

                                            1 Corintjians 16 : 13

When a bear has cubs, she rarely strays far from them. The mother bear knows that hungry predators prowl the forest in search of any living thing that is vulnerable and unproctected. So, she remains alert and aware, constanly watching for her enemy, or a threat of any kind. She's a powerful guardian protecting what is precious to her. 

         Just as the mother bear watches to protect her cubs. Christian need to watch and guard themselves against our spiritual enemy, Satan. For the Bible says he roams about as a lion, ready to devour us.

          Maybe you believe that you coild never fall prey to Satan's scheme. But nothing could be further frim the truth! A persistent attitude of precautionary watchfulness can protect you agsinst spiritual danger or entrapment. 

           In today's revommended reading frim Ezekiel, the watchman sounds the warning that enemy soldier are coming. The people can choose to heed or disregard his alarm. Be wise and heed the warning to be on gusrd againsg Satan. Commit yourself to see and resist any spritual threat. Like that mother bear, become a powerful guardian of what is precious to you, and preserve the fsith for whick Jesus paid so dear a price

            No one ever falls into sin as the result of being too watchful.

"STIR YOUR FAITH"

"Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another"

HEBREWS 10 : 25

    Philip Haille went to the little village of Le Chambon, France to write about a people who, unlike other villages, had hidden their Jews from the Nazis. He wondered what caused them to risk their lives to do such extraordinary good.

    He interviewed people in the village and was overwhelmed not by their extraordinary qualities, but by their ordinariness. They were not an unusually bright, quick-witted, brave, or discerning people.

    Haile looked for possible connections between the citizens' lives to find the reason they had done what no other French town had done. In the end, the author concluded that the one factor uniting them to do good was their attendance at the little church.

    Sunday after Sunday they heard the sermons of Pastor Trochme. Over time became the courage from God to do it. When it came a time for them to act boldly as on the day the Nazis came to town they quietly did what was right.

    One elderly woman faked heart attack when the Nazi come  to search her house. She told Haille about her personal dramatic ploy. "Pastor always taught us that there comes a time in every life when a person is asked to do something for Jesus. When my time came, I Just knew what to do." 

    There were two strong beliefs that gave the citizens of this town inner strength of steel. First, they knew spiritual strenght together in Christ was greater than any foe they Faced. Even in times of war, they did not forsake gathering. Second, they took the Word of God into their hearts in an active way knowing God would bless them when the principle of their faith were reflected in their behavior.

    The strength and courage Haille discovered in the people of Le Chambon was a result of simple obedience to God never to stop meeting together to worship and hear His Word. When extreme difficulty came their way, their unity in the faith was a habitual part of their everyday lives.

    Thank God today for a church where you can receive strength and courage. If you don't go to church, ask the Lord to lead you to the body of believers just right for you. And stir your faith.

" Life Through the Word"

        "They received the word with all readiness, and searched the 

           Scriptures daily to find out whether these things were so."

                                           ACTS 17 : 1b

        The believer in Thessalonica realize that their city leaders will do anything to keep the peace and suppress rumors of rebellion, and that thejews will not cease from their false accusations if Paul and his companions remain. The situation in untenable. So they send the missionaries out of the city under cover of darkness.

         

        Skirting an arm of the Aegean sea, the party heads for the town of Berea. This is a much smaller locale than Paul customarily targets, but it does have synagogue. As per his custom, Paul goes there to preach the Gospel to local Jews. Luke is quick to draw a contrast between the response of these Jews and those in zthessalonica; thr Bereans are more " fair- minded," he says why? They have high regard for and faith nin the Cruptures. Dr. Simon kistemaker say, "when Paul proclaim the Gospel, they immediately go to God's written Word for verification. . . . Day by day, the Bereans examine the Scripture to see whether the teaching of Paul and Sil accord with God's written word. They do so notfrom unbelief and foubt but from honest analysis and eagerness to learn the message of Go's revelation." Ensbled by the spirit to see that the things taught by ypsul agree with their treasured Scriptures, many of the Jews and the Gentile God-fearers believe.

        We have seen that the Jews of Thessalonica were like those of Asia Minor in their Jealousy over the Gospel's success among the Gentiles of their synagogue. Now we see thst they are also like Asia Minor Jews in the depth of their Jealousy; as those Jews followed Pail to harass him, so do these. Hearing of Paul's work, the thessalonican Jew Journey to berea and begin agitating the pagan crowds,  once again, Paul is forced to abandon a fledgling work, but he leaves Silas and Timonthy behind to organize the church.

        Believers from the Berean church escort all the way down the Grecian peninsula to Athens. 

Luke is not clear on how they travel, but his passing mention that they go "to sea" may indicate passage by ship. But upon arriving in the secular, sophisticated heart of Greek culture, Paul realize he will need help and asks his Berean companions to return home and home and send silas and Timothy to him as quickless as posiible. A great challenge lies before them

        Jesus said that searching the Scripture will not lead to eternal life unless it leads to him (John5:39). The Bereand, for all their love of the sacred writings, were lost until the were enabled to see Christ in thr Scripture. Be diligentl to read and study your Bible. But as you do, ask God to lead you through it to a deeper understanding of Christ.

        

"Only the Beginning"

      "It is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure."

                                                Philippians 2 :13

      We have seen that it is an absolute necessity that a person be born again if he or she is to enter the kingdom of God. We have also learned that regeneration is performed by God, that it is done without means, that it is mysterious, and that it cannot be revoked. As we close our brief study on this vital topic, it is appropriate that we remind ourselves of one other crucial facet of rebirth-- it is just the beginning of the Christian life.

      Just as none of us would have lives to live if we had not had birthdays, we cannot have new lives in Christ without spiritual rebirth. Yet just as the days of our lives are not the same as our birthdays, our Christian lives are not the same as our regeneration. This seems elementary, but it is a fact that often is not clearly grasped by believers. Regeneration is simply the doorway into the new life. In others words, our new lives in Christ are the result of spiritual rebirth. When He regenerates us, changes us forever. But He diesn't stop there. He continues working in us to move us toward the next stages in the process of our full redemption--- faith in Christ, justification, sanctification, and eventuall glorification.

      A newly born baby has much growing to do. The same is true for newly reborn believers. Great capacity for evil remains in the hearts of the regenerate. It must be resisted and replaced by Christlikeness. This is the lifelong process known as sanctification, or growth in holiness. Whereas regeneration is  work of God alone, sanctification is a work  in which we participate with God. But He gives us tools for the task, for this process is mediate (''having means") rather than immediate ("without means"). As is regeneration. While God primarily uses the word (by reading, studying memorizing and hearing it, we learn His will for our lived and sacrament ( baptism and the Lord Supper ) as our means of grace, He also employs prayer and  wosprship ( by taking ours cares, thanks and praise to Him, we grow in dependence on and love for Him), fellowship ( by spending time with others believers, we tap into their positive influence), and service in the church (evangelism, giving, acts of mercy, and so forth). By making diligent use of such means, we moves on from the starting point of our new birth to a greater experience of God's love for us.

      The Philippian jailer had been born again, bit God had only begun working in his life. The same is true for you. If you have been reborn spiritually, you now have a capacity to live God that you lacked before. Now begin to seek Him with all your being; He promises that if you do so, you will not be disappointed.

"For Today"

 "And Jesus... Said to them; "Take heed that ni one deceives you"

MATTHEW 24 : 4

     In 1843, williM Miller proclaimrd that Jesus would return to earth on March21 of that year. Believing in his mathematics calculations, Miller's follower sold everything to prepare the Rapture. But the day came and went. Imagine the disruption in so many lives as they anticipated this day, only to be disappointed.

    This story illustrates how focused some believers are on the future. Their lives are so centered on what will be. They ignore what they could be doing for Christ in the here and now.

     While it's important to know and uderstand what will happen in the future according to biblical prophecy, we must be careful not to neglect today. In other words, we are not to be so heavenly minded that we are no earthly good.

     Where do you stand with prophecy? Are you in concerned with the future that you miss out on the opportunities of today? Or, are you so settled into what is that you have not considered what will be? All Scripture is inspired by God, including the prophetic parts. Prophecy can enrich the way you live today, as you view the present in light of God's plan for the future.

"HISTORICAL NARRATIVES"

      "Now all these things happened to them as examples, and they were

       written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the ages have come."

                                             1 Corinthians 10 : 11

       The Bible's narrative section are among its most readable passages. It is uplifting for us to read of the mighty deeds of God and of the great saints who walked the earth before us. Unfortunately, interpretation of narrative passages can be quite tricky because the authors use such a wide variety of literary devices and techniques. If we are not careful, we can arrive at terribly erroneous conclusions.

        What is narrative? Simply put, it is those sections of Scripture that relate historical events in story format. It portrays characters doing things in particilar times and places. Unlike a parable, however, it usually has no moral point to make. Genesis and Exodus; Joshua through Esther; and the gospels and Acts are books that are mainly narrative.

        In seeking to find the meaning of narrative passages, we must remember that Scripture interprets Scripture. That is, to understand what a passages is teaching, we should consult other part of Scripture. In interpreting narrative, it is particularly important to consult the didactic portion of the Bible, the sections that have the primar purpose of teaching. The New Testatment epistles are the clearest examples of didactic literature. These sections of Scripture give us inspired interpretations of the narrative sections. By reading narrative in light of didactic passages, we guard against the temptation to draw improper theological and doctrinal conclusions from the Bible's stories.

        Here are some examples of his failure to let Scripture interpret Scripture can lead us to incorrect conclusions. In Genesis 22, God tests Abraham by asking him to Sacrifice his son. When Abraham almost does so, God declares, ""Now I know that you fear God"' (v.12). Thus it appears God did not know Abraham's heart, but other passages declare God's total omniscience. In another example, Genesis 1.27 teaches that God made man in His image. We might read this and deduce that dince this is so, and since man has a body, God must have a body, too. The Motmons make this errors, overlooking passages that teach that God is. Spirit. Finally, we err by blindly attempting to imitate saints from the past. We must evaluate their deeds in light of all of Scripture. Even imitation of Jesus is not always right. He was circumcised but we need not be. He forgave sins but we cannot. Scripture itself helps us understand the stories it contains.

        We are often drawn to the narrative passages of Scripture, finding them compelling and easier to read. But we put oursekves at risk of drawing wrongful conclusions by focusing only on Bobles stories. The only way to guard against this danger is to read all of the Bible. Make a commitment to read through the entire Bible in the next year or two.

"Defended by God's Power"

       Because your rage against Me and your tumult have come up to

       My ears, therefore I will put My hook in your nose and My bridle

       in your lips, and I will turn you back by the way which you came."

                                      ISAIAH 37 :21-35

       The Lord responded to Hezekiah's prayer through the voice of Isaiah and assured the king that He would save His people. Isaiah pronounced a declaration of judgement against Assyria for its boasting against God and its presumptuous belief that it could defy heaven itself by the power of its armies. As David wrote in Psalm 2, God though little of Sennacherib's boasting: "why do the nations rage, and the people plot a vain thing? The king of the earth set themselves, and the rulers take counsel together, againdt the Lord and against His anointed. . . He who sits in the heavens shall laugh; the Lord shall hold them in derision. Then theybshall speak to them in this wrath, and distress them in deep displeasure. 

       The Lord spoke to the king of Assyria and told him that he would not touch the city of His Children, and that he had done a foolish thing to blaspheme the name of Jehovah. Sennacherib though himself so powerful, but God was the one who made the city of Jerusalem: "Did you not hear long ago how I made it, from ancient times that I formed it?" It is a foolish thing to think that one can tear down what God has created, for He has established His people  and nothing can brake them when He stands with them.

        God's people will be under His contiual protection because He has chosen them. It is as if He says to His enemies, "I have founded the church, and therefore the salvation of the church shall always be My care. I will not leave unfinished the work which I have begun, but will carry it forward yo perfection." He reiterated this point in verse 35 when He said, "for He will defend this city, to save it for My own sake and for My servant David sake." Because of the covenant He had made with His people, He would deliver would them from their enemies.

       The Lord defends and preserve His work because it involves His honor and our salvation. He is the Maker of the church, for we are His workmanship, created anew by His zspirit. This work of sanctifying and glorifying His church is more excellent than the whole Creation. God's love and cate for His church never wanes. It was a foolish thing, therefore, for Sennachrib to think that He could defy God himself and destroyed the city of Jerusalem, judt as is foolish for anyone today to think he can tear down the church of Jesus Chtist.

"Unveiling the Son"

           "I know that Messiah is coming" (who is called Christ ). 

                   " when He comes, He will tell us all things."

                                            John 4 : 25

           Do you know who Jesus Christ is? According to the first five words of the Book of Revelation, you've come to the right book--- a book whose sole purpose is to unveil Jesus Christ's full identity. Once scorned as a blasphemer who simply claimed to be God, Jesus Christ is revealed in the book of  Revelation as the King and Ruler of all. Once humiliated by being stripped and nail to a cross, Jesus Christ is revealed as the Lamb is worthy to receive all honor and blessing.

           The Book of Revelation is the unveiling of Jesus Christ in all His glory. Woven throughout its pages, you hear Heaven proclaiming, "Yes, He is the Messiah, the Chosen one of God. Yes, He is the Savior of the world. Yes is the Almighty who has defeated Satan."

           As you learn more about the earthly battles and heavenly victories that Jesus Christ has fought and won, may your desire to see Him clearly be accompanied with deep joy and eternal gratitude as you discover who he  is and all He's done for you.

"The Gospel for Pagans"

                                          "THEOLOGY IN ACTS"

                                                     17:16-34

       

       In the marketplace of Athens, a little group was having the usual at a table behind the bazaar of Proclus. "You know what's new?" Hermes asked. "I heard this little Jewish teacher near the Royal Colonnade where the Areopagus meets. Some heckler tried to give him a hard time, but he had the best of it."

      Proclus cut in. "I know the one you mean. He comes every day. He's just a guttersparrow scavenging bits and scraps of phrases he's picked up in his wanderings, he kept talking about two new gods: Iesos and anastasia. It sound like a new cult from Judea."

      We might enjoy this conversation about Paul's first visit to Athens but Luke's inspired account gives us facts ( Acts 17:-6-34). Paul at Athen! 

 The converted rabbi in the heart of Pagans culture!

       Paul walked around fabled athens, home of philosphers and playwrights, sculptors and architects. Above him stood the parthenon, crowing the acropolis. Here was the work of Phidas dedicated to Athena, the patron goddess of the city. Yet Paul was not exhilarated. He was depressed. He saw a city full of idols. Everywhere along the streets were "herms," square columns displaying the scupted head of Hermes. Scores of other gods had altars where the devoted left their gifts.

       Paul knew it would be days before Silas and Timothy came from Macedonia. Yet he could not take a vacation from apostleship. The Athenians were idolators. Even the meat at the butcher's in the marketplace had been offered to idols. But the market was also a meeting place. Men made business deals there. They argued about everything and listened to philosphers debating. The Stoics spoke of union with the divine, and about gaining the dignity of reason and detachment. 

        The Epicureans described pleasure as the highest good--- not pleasure in the hear of passion. But the cool pleasure of indifference, free from pain and disturbing desires and fears. Paul's message attracted curiousity among these savants.

        In his address before the Areopagus, the noted Athenian council, Paul adapted his evangelism to a sophisticated Gentile audience. See how different are his words from his sermon in a Jewish synagogue. His introductory words model what every contemporary preacher needs. Paul did not insult his hearers, but disarned them. He had observed that they were very religious. His term, however, is not necessarily complimentary; it could mean "superstitious."

Knowing the Spirit

          "God demonstrated His Own love toward us, in

           that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us."

                                        Roman 5:8

          It's difficult to go through life with only half the story. Half the instructions will not make a half -way decent swing set. Half a novel will leave you dissatisfied. Were there to be some horrible printing calamity and this article be left with only every other word, you. . .  Probably. . . Confused. . . Death. With only half a story, you always will find yourself wanting more, wondering what you are missing. And this is too often the cause of marital infidelity. When it comes to our relations with our better halves, we too often have the wrong half of the story.

         Why did you got  married? Try to answer honesty. What was the goal? Many get married because that's supposed to be the next chapter in the book. It is expected. Some get married because they are afraid of being lonely. And the there are those who get married because they think it will make them happy. They think that the person must be the other that they are missing. Get that half and they'll complete.

        While my own marriage come at a reasonable approximation of the approximate time ( yes i was 27, and no doubt my mother was rather impatient for me to get to that chapter ), while I would surely be lonely if I did not have my dear wife and while she is indeed a joy in my life and in many ways completes me. 

        My friend was having a conversation with a man  who didn't have much good to say about the Christian faith. My friend knew that if he were to sound too religious." He would jeopardize any chance to witness. So in the middle of their discussion. He said, "Hey, Bob do you know where sinners go?"

       "That's easy," he replied. "Youre going to tell me  they go to hell."

       "No." My friend responded They go  church!!

        

"The promise"

        "When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the 

         Lord Jesus. And when Paul had laid hands on them, the Holy

         Spirit came on them.                                    ----Acts 19:5/6a

         Paul's return to Ephesus fulfills his promise to the Jews there that, "'God willing'" (18:21). He would come back. But on his arrival he first encounters not the Jews, not aquila and Priscilla (who have vanished from the narrative), and not the believers mentioned 18:27

Instead, he finds a group of 12 men. Like call the "disciples," but it appears that Paul quickly develops doubts about them, for he asks a question designed to help him perceive where they stand with Christ: "'Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?"' If they have truly trusted Christ, they should answer with a resounding "'Yes." However, they reply that they have even heard of a Holy Spirit.

         This is unthinkable; as Dr. Simon Kistemaker notes, "a Christian with out the Spirit is a contradiction in terms. Faith ( or, belief ) without the Spirit is nothing more than nodding consent." Futhermore, if these" disciples had been brought to Christ under the ministry of mature believer such as Aquila and Priscilla, they would have learned the Gospel accurately and would have heard the Old Testament references to the spirit. At the very least, they would have  been baptized in the name of the Father, the son, and the Holy Spirit. Hearing their answer, Paul immediately realizes that these are not true believers.

          Under his continued questioning, the truth comes out; these are disciple not of Christ but of John the Baptist. Incredible, even though John ministered for a very short time nearly 30 years before in a land far from Ephesus, he still has followers. But Paul is able to lead these men to saving faith by reminding them of John's chief emphasis; Christ Himself. He shows them that their teacher, John, urged his hearers to believe on Christ who, Unlike John, could forgive sins. Hearing this, the Ephesian believe and Undergo Christian baptism.

         Paul then lays his hand on the men and they receive the Holy Spirit, along with the supernatural manifestation of tongues and prophecy. This is the fourth incidence in Acts of a group of people being so baptized by the Spirit, along with the Jewish disciples (2:4), the Samaritans ( 8:17 ), and the God -fearers ( 10:4; ). Commentators are divide on the significance of this event, though most agree it represents. The extension of the Gospel to a new group of people, perhaps to Gentiles lacking any understanding of the Christian faith.

        

 

         

The morning service."

       "Their duty was...to stand every morning to thank and praise the Lord."

                                      1 Chronicles 23:28,30 NKJV

       The Levites werenever given the option to skip morning devotions. They were commanded to keep the morning sacrifice every day, without exception. As part of the morning rizual in the Temple the high priest had these three duties:

        1.  To trim the lamps, making sure each oil of the

              Menorah had sufficient oil and that the wicks were

              Properly positioned,

        2.   To burn sweet incense on the incense altar,

        3.   and to burn the fat of the peace offerings.

       Once a week, as part of the mornig ritual, the priest wearing a highly symbolic vestment. As he worked, the only sound was the light tinkling of the bells on the hem of his garment.

        This ancient ritual may seem strange and of little meaning to us today, but one great lesson we can draw from it is this: the morning sacrifice involved all of the senses and mind. The priest stood begote the Lord with his identity clearly displayed; he stood before the Lord for Examination.

        His sacrifice touched upon all aspect of his humanity: the lamps symbolized his need for light the ability see with spiritual eyes. The incense wasa picture of his need to dwell in an atmosphere infusesd with God's holy presence. The peace offering were a sign of his need for with God and his fellow man. And the "shewbread" demonstration is need for daily provision, which only the Lord could provide.

        This a ceremony that, in its silence. Spoke clearly: we need You. We have no life,

        No wholeness, no meaning."

        We may not have a ritual to follow in our morning devotional times, but we must come before the Lord with the same spirit of depe dence and obedience day ahead of us is not ours. Our lives belong to God. (1 Corinthians 6:20).

        Every thing we need, he will  supply. The day is His even as we ate His.