Bible Pathways

[Judy Harder]

Bible Pathways
     
Read Matthew 10 -- 11

Highlights:

Thank God for today's message from Jesus who said: Whosoever therefore shall confess Me before men, him will I confess also before My Father which is in heaven (Matt. 10:32). John the Baptist is about to be beheaded, but he makes the right choice (10:28). Jesus praises him as His messenger (11:1-15). Unbeliever's actions and judgment (11:16-24). Life's greatest invitation: Come unto Me (11:28-30).
Confessing Christ alone as Savior and Lord of our lives separates a person from the world. Jesus said: Whosoever therefore shall confess Me before men, him will I confess also before My Father which is in heaven. But whosoever shall deny Me before men, him will I also deny before My Father which is in heaven (Matt. 10:32-33). "Christians" who do not confess their love for Christ will soon be defeated. But the true Christian will be convinced in his heart that he should have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them (Eph. 5:11).

How much better if, on the very first opportunity after a person receives Christ as his Savior, he clearly confesses that he is a Christian and Christ is Savior and Lord of his life! It is clear that our fellowship should not be with the unsaved crowd since ye (we) are the Temple of the Living God. . . . Wherefore come out from among them . . . saith the Lord (II Cor. 6:16-17).

What kind of person would sit with a crowd which was cursing and criticizing his father and pretend to go along with such talk? That situation would hardly be tolerated. Can a Christian enjoy fellowship with a Christ-rejecting, cursing crowd and keep silent?

Some people believe that to confess with their mouths is not essential; rather what really matters is to merely exhibit good conduct before others. But no matter how good one's conduct is, if we consistently fail to witness, our spiritual lives are weakened.

Some are afraid to confess the Lord for fear they will be ridiculed. They would rather wait a few years; then, after they have "proved themselves worthy," they plan to confess the Lord. This too is a deception, the result of pride and a snare of Satan.

Jesus was humiliated before Pilate and the mocking crowd, and by the soldiers at Calvary; then He was put to death for your sins and mine. Any humiliation we receive from mankind today can never be compared with the shame which our Lord endured as He was made . . . sin for us . . . that we might be made the righteousness of God in Him (5:21). Under no circumstances should we ever be ashamed of confessing Christ as our Savior. They overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony (Rev. 12:11).

Thought for Today:

He that overcometh . . . I will confess his name before My Father (Rev. 3:5).
Cross References:

For Matt. 10:11, 35-36: See Mic. 7:6. Matt. 11:5: See Is. 35:5; 61:1. Matt. 11:10: See Mal. 3:1. Matt. 11:23: See Ezek. 26:20; 31:14; 32:18,24. Matt. 11:29: See Jer. 6:16.
Word Studies:

10:25 Beelzebub prince of evil; 10:29 a farthing a small coin of little value; 10:35 variance division, disagreement; 11:20 upbraid rebuke.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts in memory of Letha Hash • Staff: Dan Murton • Country: Bangladesh (125.7 million) in southern Asia • Major languages: Bangla and English • Present religious freedom may become limited • 86.6% Muslim; 12.1% Hindu; .6% Buddhist; .3% Christian; .4% Other • Prayer Suggestion: Seek the Lord when you are oppressed (Ps. 102:8-13).
Memory Verse for the Week:

Matthew 7:1

[Judy Harder]

Bible Pathways
     
Read Matthew 12

Highlights:

A lot of questions! It is important to know the answers. What does Jesus say (Matt. 12:1-14)? The true family of Jesus (12:46-50).
While Jesus was teaching to a crowd within a home, He was interrupted (Matt. 12:46). He was told that His mother and His brothers were standing outside desiring to speak to Him. But He answered and said . . . Who is My mother? and who are My brethren? And He stretched forth His hand toward His disciples, and said, Behold My mother and My brethren! For whosoever shall do the will of My Father which is in heaven, the same is My brother, and sister, and mother (12:48-50). The Apostle Mark relates that on one occasion Jesus and His disciples could not so much as eat bread (eat their meal because of the crowds) (Mark 3:20). His friends (literally, those close to Him, which would include family) were concerned and said: He is beside Himself (3:21). Neither mealtime nor the closest human relationship — even mother, family, or friends — could come between Him and His Heavenly Father's will.

Jesus made use of this interruption by giving a new and loving view of His disciples as a happy family united to Himself, to each other, and to our Father who is in heaven. This eternal family relationship includes all who receive Him as Savior and desire to do His will. The precious words brother, and sister, and mother (Matt. 12:50) become significant terms for our relationship with other Christians. The effect of His words was to make it clear that earthly ties are meaningful only when in alliance with the family ties of heaven.

This is the revelation of the family of God made by Jesus as He stretched out His hand toward His disciples, and then to all the world, by the word whosoever (12:50), and have put on the new man (the new nature received at the new birth — John 3:3,5; II Cor. 5:17) (Col. 3:10). As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become . . . born . . . of God (John 1:12-13). What a privilege it is to be in the family of God, doing the Father's will and to be accepted by every believer as a brother or sister.

Jesus promised: Verily I say unto you, There is no man that hath left house, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for My sake, and the Gospel's, But he shall receive an hundredfold now in this time, houses, and brethren, and sisters, and mothers, and children, and lands, with persecutions; and in the world to come eternal life (Mark 10:29-30).

Thought for Today:

I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things (Phil. 3:.
Cross References:

For Matt. 12:7: See Hos. 6:6. Matt. 12:18-21: See Is. 42:1-4. Matt. 12:40: See Jon. 1:17.
Word Studies:

12:1 corn grain fields; 12:5 profane violate or break the law; 12:29 spoil his goods take away his possessions; 12:44 garnished ready for use.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts in memory of Iva Ann McElroy (Dr. John A. Hash's mother) • Government Officials: Sen. Benjamin Cardin (MD) and Rep. At-Large Dennis Rehberg (MT) • Country: Barbados (259,000) on the island farthest east in the West Indies • Major language: English • Religious freedom • 79% Protestant; 8% Roman Catholic • Prayer Suggestion: Bless the Lord for your redemption (Ps. 103:4).
Memory Verse for the Week:

Matthew 7:1

[Judy Harder]

Read Matthew 13 -- 14

Highlights:

The Word of God is the seed. We're just told to plant and let it grow. God provides the fruit (Matt. 13:1-23). Mustard seed, yeast, and hidden treasure. The pearl of great price can be yours (13:45-46). Jesus miraculously feeds 5,000 when there is no food (14:13-21) and walks on water (14:25-27).
There are just four kinds of responses to hearing the Word of God. Why do so many fail? Jesus said: Hear ye therefore the parable of the sower. When any one heareth the Word of the Kingdom, and understandeth it not (has no interest in submitting to Christ because this people's heart is waxed gross, and their ears are dull of hearing, and their eyes they have closed to the Truth — Matt. 13:15), then cometh the wicked one, and catcheth away that which was sown in his heart. This is he which received seed by the way side. But he that received the seed into stony places, the same is he that heareth the Word, and anon with joy receiveth it; Yet hath he not root in himself, but dureth for a while: for when tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the Word, by and by he is offended (13:18-21).

We behold in one scene man's self-destroying, shallow concern and Satan's opportunity to steal the precious Word (13:19). The difference between the fruitful field and this barren wayside was the shallowness or lack of depth of the hearer. When one receives the Word, God engineers the circumstances.

He also that received seed among the thorns is he that heareth the Word; and the care of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, choke the Word, and he becometh unfruitful. But he that received seed into the good ground is he that heareth the Word, and understandeth it; which also beareth fruit (13:22-23).

Worldly cares develop as easily from poverty as from wealth and can crowd out Christ and His Word. This conflict of seed sown among the thorns illustrates the double-minded person who is neither hard and indifferent as the first, nor shallow like the second. But there is one fault of eternal consequence — his life is a mixture; there are other seeds in the heart besides those sown by the Master. Many call themselves Christians and profess much that is ethical, moral, and biblical; but their lives are compromised by worldly concerns and activities that dominate their hearts.

No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon (Matt. 6:24).

Thought for Today:

This one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind . . . I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus (Phil. 3:13-14).
Cross References:

For Matt. 13:14-15: See Is. 6:9-10. Matt. 13:32: See Ps. 104:12; Ezek. 17:23; 31:6; Dan. 4:12. Matt. 13:35: See Ps. 78:2. Matt. 13:41: See Zeph. 1:3. Matt. 13:43: See Dan. 12:3.
Word Studies:

13:5 forthwith quickly; 13:15 is waxed gross has grown hardened; 13:20 anon . . . receiveth it immediately accepts it; 13:21 dureth for a while continues only a short time; 13:25 tares weeds — symbolic of satanic activities; 13:33 leaven seemingly insignificant yeast that affects the whole; meal ground grain; 14:8 charger large platter.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by Thursday Morning Prayer • Staff: Pam Murton • Government Officials: Rep. Lloyd Doggett (TX), Rep. Brian Higgins (NY), Rep. Steve Scalise (LA) • Country: Belarus (10 million) in northeastern Europe • Major languages: Belarussian and Russian • Religious freedom • 48% Orthodox; 22% Roman Catholic; 1.1% Jewish; 1% Protestant; .2% Muslim; 27.7% Agnostic/Atheist/Other • Prayer Suggestion: Praise the Lord for His goodness and mercy (Ps. 106:1).
Memory Verse for the Week:

Matthew 7:1

[Judy Harder]

Bible Pathways
     
Read Matthew 15 -- 17

Highlights:

Jesus rebukes the hypocrites . . . saying,This people draweth nigh unto Me with their mouth, and honoureth Me with their lips; but their heart is far from Me (Matt. 15:7-8). Jesus' first mention of the Church (16:18). Disciples receive "faith builders" in viewing the transfiguration of Jesus and the healing of the demon-possessed boy (17:1-21).
Caesarea Philippi was the location of the famous worship center of the Greek god Pan, representative of all gods of paganism. Located about 25 miles north of the Sea of Galilee, it was situated at the foot of the southern slope of Mount Hermon. With its snowcapped peak 9,000 feet above sea level, Mount Hermon is the highest mountain in the promised land. Many believe that the transfiguration of Christ took place there (Matt. 17:1-2).

At Caesarea Philippi, in the midst of large numbers of idol worshipers, Jesus asked His disciples: Whom do men say that I the Son of Man am (16:13)? In response to His question, the disciples answered: Some say that Thou art John the Baptist: some, Elias (Elijah); and others, Jeremias (Jeremiah), or one of the prophets (16:14). But when He asked: But whom say ye that I am? (16:15), without hesitation, Peter answered, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the Living God (16:16).

One who does not submit himself to God makes a god of himself and lives for himself. To take care of self is the driving principle of the natural man, but to submit self to the will of God is the first principle of the spiritual life! Self-denial is fundamental to confessing Christ before men. Whosoever therefore shall confess Me (10:32) signifies a genuine acknowledgment of Jesus as Lord and Savior and a denial of self from worldly lusts. Furthermore, it means to place no dependence on one's own goodness and good works for justification before God, but to rely by faith on Christ alone and in His death on the cross for our sins. Jesus said to each of us: Take up the cross, and follow Me (Mark 10:21). If we suffer (with Him), we shall also reign with Him (II Tim. 2:12).

When we truly recognize, as Peter did, that Jesus is The Christ, The Son of the Living God (Matt. 16:16), nothing will be considered too much of a sacrifice for Jesus' sake, and we will feel surprised when someone speaks of how much it costs to be a Christian. Christ, by His Spirit, has taken the place of self in order that His love may flow through us. Even Christ pleased not Himself; but, as it is written, The reproaches of them that reproached Thee fell on Me (Rom. 15:3).

Thought for Today:

And He is the Head of the body, the Church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things He might have the preeminence (Col. 1:18).
Cross References:

For Matt. 15:4: See Ex. 20:12; 21:17; Lev. 20:9; Deut. 5:16. Matt. 15:8-9: See Is. 29:13. Matt. 16:27: See Ps. 62:12; Prov. 24:12.
Word Studies:

16:6 leaven false teaching; 16:18 gates of hell the powers of Satan; 17:25 prevented him anticipated what Peter would say and spoke before Peter could.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by Lt. Col. & Mrs. Walter Swanson • Bible Pathway Printer: Ambrose Printing Staff, Nashville TN • Staff: Clarence Rathbone • Country: Belgium (10.2 million) in northwestern Europe • Major languages: Flemish and French • Religious freedom • 74% Catholic; 3% Muslim; 1% Protestant; .5% Orthodox; 20% Secular Humanism; 1.5% Other • Prayer Suggestion: Pray and praise God with a spirit of thankfulness for His goodness (Ps. 107:1,21).
Memory Verse for the Week:

Matthew 7:1

[Judy Harder]

 October 08, 2011  Bible Pathways
     
Read Matthew 18 -- 20

Highlights:

Importance of helping and not hindering a child's faith in God (Matt. 18:2-10). Jesus' purpose in life: To save that which was (is) lost (18:11-14). Importance of forgiving all offenses (18:21-35). Christ and divorce (19:3-12). Difficulty of rich people entering heaven (19:16-30). By faith, we follow our King. With Jesus all things are possible (19:26). Laborers in His kingdom (20:1-16). Jesus foretells His death and resurrection (20:17-19). Importance of being a servant; two blind men receive sight (20:17-34).
The rabbis taught that one should forgive his neighbor who had offended him as many as three times. Peter thought himself to be far superior if his forgiveness was extended to seven offenses. The Savior's reply exposed Peter's attitude as far from adequate when compared with the mercy of God and His willingness to forgive us without limitation. It demonstrated that there is no forgiveness from God unless one's forgiving spirit is limitless.

The Lord's response was a parable of a king who discovered that one of his servants owed him ten thousand talents (Matt. 18:24) — an amount far beyond his ability to pay in a lifetime. The servant begged for patience (18:26). The king was moved with compassion, and . . . forgave him (all) the debt (18:27). This same servant soon was confronted with another slave who owed him an hundred pence (100 days' pay): and he laid hands on him, and took him by the throat. . . . and cast him into prison (18:28-30). Having heard this, his lord (the king) was wroth (angry) (18:31-34). He reversed his decision and delivered his servant to the prison and the tormentors, till he should pay all that was due unto him (18:34). Then Jesus said: So likewise shall My Heavenly Father do also unto you, if ye from your hearts forgive not every one . . . their trespasses (18:35).

The principle of forgiveness is based upon the redeeming love of God, fully and freely granted in mercy and grace to undeserving sinners. The evidence of His forgiving work of grace in one's life will become apparent by one's response to the offenses of others. How insignificant are my brother's offenses against me compared to my numberless sins against God?

True repentance toward God is inseparably associated with our attitude toward our fellowmen; it cannot exist apart from our forgiving spirit (18:35). Jesus said: Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you; That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven (5:44-45).

Thought for Today:

If ye forgive men their trespasses, your Heavenly Father will also forgive you: But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses (Matt. 6:14-15).
Cross References:

For Matt. 18:16: See Deut. 19:15. Matt. 19:4: See Gen.1:27; 5:2. Matt. 19:5: See Gen. 2:24. Matt. 19:7: See Deut. 24:1-4. Matt. 19:18: See Ex. 20:13-16; Deut. 5:16-20. Matt. 19:19: See Ex. 20:12; Lev. 19:18; Deut. 5:16.
Word Studies:

18:6 offend no wrong, cause to sin; 19:14 Suffer permit; 20:3 third hour about 9 a.m.; 20:11 murmured against the goodman of the house were indignant, critical of their employer; 20:15 Is thine eye evil? are you begrudging, jealous, or envious?; 20:26 minister servant.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Government Officials: Rep. Dennis Kucinich (OH) and Rep. Thomas Price (GA) • Country: Belize (236,000) on the eastern coast of Central America • Major languages: English and Spanish • Religious freedom • 64% Roman Catholic; 26% Protestant; 2% spiritist/animist; 1% Hindu; 1% Muslim; 1% Baha'i • Prayer Suggestion: Pray for your adversaries (Ps. 109:4).
Memory Verse for the Week:

Matthew 7:1

[Judy Harder]

Read Matthew 21 -- 22

Highlights:

Prophecy fulfilled of Jesus' triumphant entry into Jerusalem (Matt. 21:1-11); defiled Temple, cleansing, His miracles (21:12-15); fig tree cursed (21:18-22). Authority of Jesus (21:23-27). A heavenly parable: The King's invitation is rejected; His parables; expected fruit; marriage feast; importance of knowing Scripture; the great Commandment (22:37-40).
The wise men did not find the newborn King Jesus in a palace or in royal attire; neither did He appear in a stately display of horse-drawn chariots on His royal entry into Jerusalem. Nothing could be plainer or less pretentious than this memorable event that fulfilled Zechariah's prophecy (Matt. 21:1-11; Zech. 9:9)!

Even the lowly animal chosen for Jesus' royal entry was as unassuming as the garments the disciples draped upon it. How unlike the way we might expect most kings to appear! What were the garments of the disciples and the branches of the multitude compared to the purple hangings and gorgeous array with which other sovereigns parade their power and display their pride?

But Jesus' Kingdom is not of this world, and His birth and His triumphant entry indicate the way in which our Lord goes through the world today — in love and humility. It has pleased God to display His glory without fanfare and showmanship.

When they drew nigh unto Jerusalem . . . then sent Jesus two disciples, Saying unto them, Go into the village over against you, and straightway ye shall find an ass tied, and a colt with her: loose them, and bring them unto Me (21:1-2). And the multitudes that went before, and that followed, cried, saying, Hosanna to the Son of David: Blessed is He that cometh in the Name of the Lord; Hosanna in the highest (21:9).

Jesus knew exactly where the ass and colt were to be found, just as He knows all about every need you have and every one of your abilities. When we trust Him as our Savior, Christ the King comes to rule in our lives. He is Head over all things to the Church (believers) (Eph. 1:22) of which He is the Head (5:23). Jesus went into the Temple of God, and cast out all them that sold and bought in the Temple, and overthrew the tables of the moneychangers, and the seats of them that sold doves, And said unto them, It is written, My House shall be called the House of Prayer; but ye have made it a den of thieves (Matt. 21:12-13).

Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion; shout, O daughter of Jerusalem: behold, thy King cometh unto thee: He is just, and having salvation; lowly, and riding upon an ass, and upon a colt the foal of an ass (Zech. 9:9).

Thought for Today:

Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honour, and glory, and blessing (Rev. 5:12).
Cross References:

For Matt. 21:5: See Is. 62:11; Zech. 9:9. Matt. 21:9: See Ps. 118:26. Matt. 21:13: See Is. 56:7; Jer. 7:11. Matt. 21:16: See Ps. 8:2. Matt. 21:33: See Ps. 80:8-9; Is. 5:1-2. Matt. 21:42: See Ps. 118:22-23. Matt. 22:24: See Deut. 25:5. Matt. 22:32: See Ex. 3:6. Matt. 22:37: See Deut. 6:5. Matt. 22:39: See Lev. 19:18. Matt. 22:44: See Ps. 110:1.
Word Studies:

21:2 over against you shead of you; facing you; 21:8 strawed . . . in the way spread in His path; 21:33 husbandmen tenant farmers; 21:42 The Stone . . . is become the Head of the corner Christ (Ps.118:22-23) who is the Chief Corner Stone (Eph. 2:20; I Pet. 2:6).
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Government Official: Gov. Paul LePage (ME) • Country: Benin (6 million) in western Africa • Major languages: French and tribal languages • Some hostility toward Christians • 59% animism and voodoo; 17% Muslim; 16% Roman Catholic; 3% Protestant • Prayer Suggestion: Do not be fearful or live in dread of what might happen; trust the Lord to take care of you (Ps. 112:7).
Memory Verse for the Week:

Matthew 7:2

[Judy Harder]

October 10, 2011  Bible Pathways
     
Read Matthew 23 -- 24

Highlights:

Jesus announces the horrible fate of hypocritical religious leaders (Matt. 23:1-36)! Jesus deeply grieves over Jerusalem like He does for those who reject Him today (23:37-39). Only God knows the day (24:36)!
Of the three prominent religious societies of Judaism at the time of Christ — Pharisees, Sadducees, and Essenes — the Pharisees were the most highly respected.

Jewish scribes were a class of learned men whose professional occupation was to systematically study the Law and explain its meaning. The scribes were copiers of the Law and other documents. They held undisputed sway as the recognized interpreters of the Law and were the revered representatives of Judaism. For the most part they were members of the Pharisee party. Jesus said: All their works they do for to be seen of men (Matt. 23:5).

Together, they pledged themselves to live in strict observance of the Mosaic Law and to obey all facets of the tradition of the elders (earlier interpretations of the Law) (15:2-3) to the minutest detail; they were sticklers for ceremonial purity. They also were haughty and arrogant toward any who opposed their views. Considering their legalistic attitudes, it was inevitable that they would bitterly oppose Jesus for His refusal to be bound by their man-made traditions (John 9:16,22) and for His claims of Messiahship.

Throughout Jesus' ministry the Pharisees were His most determined opponents. He, in turn, condemned them for their hypocrisy, their legalism, the hardness of their hearts, their pride against others, and their covetousness. God knoweth your hearts: for that which is highly esteemed among men is abomination in the sight of God (Luke 16:15). It is eternally sad that people in all generations reject the Savior for earthly power and prestige.

Five times in succession our Savior portrayed the religious leaders as blind (Matt. 23:16-17,19-24,26) to their hypocrisy. He further described them as being full of extortion and excess (23:25) and as being like whited sepulchres (whitewashed tombs) (23:27) — outwardly righteous, but inwardly vile. Then spake Jesus to the multitude, and to His disciples, Saying. . . . Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye devour widows' houses, and for a pretence make long prayer: therefore ye shall receive the greater damnation. . . . Woe unto you, ye blind guides. . . . ye also outwardly appear righteous . . . but within ye are full of hypocrisy and iniquity (lawlessness) (Matt. 23:1-2,14,16,28).

Thought for Today:

Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with Truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness (Eph. 6:14).
Cross References:

For Matt. 23:39: See Ps. 118:26. Matt. 24:15: See Dan. 9:27; 11:31; 12:11. Matt. 24:29: See Is. 13:10; 24:23; 34:4; Ezek. 32:7; Joel 2:10,31; 3:15; Zeph. 1:15. Matt. 24:30: See Dan. 7:13. Matt. 24:31: See Deut. 30:4; Is. 27:13; Zech. 2:6. Matt. 24:38: See Gen. 6:3-5; 7:7.
Word Studies:

23:5 phylacteries scripture texts in small boxes worn by some Jews to impress others of their religious zeal; 23:15 compass to "go about," or "go around," sea and land; 23:29 garnish decorate, adorn.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by Elaine Servetto • Staff: Jennifer Cunningham • Government Officials: Rep. Joseph Pitts (PA), and Rep. Joseph Pitts (PA) • Country: Bhutan (2 million) in the eastern Himalayas of central Asia • Major languages: Tibetan and Nepalese dialects • Public worship, evangelism, and proselytization are illegal • 50-70% Buddhist; 24-45% Hindu; 5% Muslim; 1% Protestant/Roman Catholic • Prayer Suggestion: Remember that one of the purposes of prayer is to glorify God (Ps. 115:1).
Memory Verse for the Week:

Matthew 7:2

[Judy Harder]

Read Matthew 25 -- 26

Highlights:

When the Lord returns, servants will be evaluated (Matt. 25:1-13). Wait faithfully. Share His Word (25:14-30,46). Last Supper — Jesus' New Covenant sealed in His blood (26:26-28). His betrayal (26:47-50).
There will come a day when comparative wealth, personal advantages, and popularity will be seen for their true value — worthless. Watch (Be prepared) therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of Man cometh (Matt. 25:13). All the advantages that seemed so important will vanish and the final question will be: Did I express the love of God in my daily conduct as one who possessed the new life in Christ, or did I only profess to believe (I John 1:7)? My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth (3:18).

When the Son of Man shall come in His glory, and all the holy angels with Him, then shall He sit upon the throne of His glory: And before Him shall be gathered all nations: and He shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd divideth his sheep (ALL whose sins were forgiven when they trusted Christ as Savior and Lord) from the goats (all who ignored His loving invitation) (Matt. 25:31-32).

Christlike love will sacrifice for the less fortunate and offer something of self to meet the needs — spiritual and otherwise — of those who seem to be unlovable. This love reaches its greatest fulfillment while actively serving others for Christ's sake.

All seek their own (Phil. 2:21) — everybody, that is, except the person who truly has the new life in Christ. He is not his own, for he was bought with a price (I Cor. 6:20), and for him to live is Christ (Phil. 1:21). The true Christian now possesses Christ-like love for fellow believers as well as his enemies.

Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these My brethren, ye have done it unto Me. . . . Inasmuch as ye did it not to one of the least of these, ye did it not to Me. And these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal (Matt. 25:40,45-46).

The Holy Spirit moved the Apostle John to write: We know that we have passed from death unto life, because we love the brethren. He that loveth not his brother abideth in death. . . . whoso hath this world's good, and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him (I John 3:14,17)?

Thought for Today:

Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others (Phil. 2:4).
Cross References:

For Matt. 26:31: See Zech. 13:7. Matt. 26:64: See Ps. 110:1; Dan. 7:13.
Word Studies:

25:27 exchangers moneylenders; usury interest on money loaned; 26:15 covenanted established an agreement; 26:47 staves clubs; 26:63 I adjure Thee I charge You under oath before God.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts in memory of Henry Rogers • Executive Director of the IBRA in our Washington DC Branch: Reverend Michael Hall • Staff: Beth Carlton • Government Officials: Rep. Sam Johnson (TX), Sen. Patty Murray (WA), Rep. Chuck Fleischmann (TN) • Country: Bolivia (8 million) in South America • Major languages: Spanish and Quechua • Religious freedom • 92% Roman Catholic; 3% Protestant; 3% Baha'i • Prayer Suggestion: Call upon the Lord in adversity, for He will hear (Ps. 116:1-4,8).
Memory Verse for the Week:

Matthew 7:2

[Judy Harder]

Read Matthew 27 -- 28

Highlights:

Pilate's question — What will you do with Jesus (Matt. 27:22)? The horrifying crucifixion of our Lord, His death (27:32-65), and His resurrection (28:1-15). Go . . . teach . . . them to observe all things (28:18-20).
There beneath the shadow of the cross, with the blood flowing down from the side, arms, and feet of the crucified Savior, the Roman soldiers gambled for the garment of the One who was dying to save them: They crucified Him, and parted His garments, casting lots: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, They parted My garments among them, and upon My vesture did they cast lots (Matt. 27:35). These soldiers gazed at him for hours and saw nothing but a dying Jew: And sitting down they watched Him there (27: 36). In the presence of the most awesome event in the world's history, they were all unmoved. How can people possibly read of Christ's suffering, yet feel nothing and do nothing!

Bearing His cross did not begin when a wooden cross was laid upon Jesus' shoulders. He carried the real cross of mankind's redemption all through His life; what became visible on Golgotha was a manifestation of His true cross which motivated His life. From the temptations of Satan to the agony in Gethsemane and the offering of Himself on the cross, Jesus chose to live daily against self-will and the temptations of the flesh, especially that of gaining His kingdom by worldly means. Every day He chose to take up His cross; that is, He chose to lose His own life and will by doing only what He had seen or heard from the Father (John 5:19). We too should choose to take up our cross daily.

The Christian's "cross" is not some burden we cannot avoid, some handicap we must overcome, or some sorrow we must face. It is a daily rejecting of the self-life for Christ's life — not our will but His will of victory over the power of sin (Matt. 26:39). Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with Him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin (Rom. 6:6).

In our conformity to Christ's death there is an end of self; we give up ourselves to live and die for others. Out of this death to self we rise with the power to love and to bless. He said to them all, If any man will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me (Luke 9:23).

Paul said: I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave Himself for me (Gal. 2:20).

Thought for Today:

Hereby perceive we the love of God, because He laid down His life for us: and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren (I John 3:16).
Cross References:

For Matt. 27:5-10: See Zech. 11:12-13. Matt. 27:34: See Ps. 69:21. Matt. 27:35: See Ps. 22:18. Matt. 27:39: See Job 16:4; Ps. 109:25; Lam. 2:15. Matt. 27:43: See Ps. 22:8. Matt. 27:46: See Ps. 22:1.
Word Studies:

27:15 wont accustomed; 27:16 notable notorious; 27:24 tumult uproar, riot; 27:48 straightway immediately, without delay.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts in honor of Rick Hash • Assistant to the Executive Director of the IBRA in our Washington DC Branch: Terry Hall • Government Officials: Rep. Steve Austria (OH) and Rep. Edward Royce (CA) • Country: Bosnia and Hercegovina (4 million) on the Balkan Peninsula in southeastern Europe • Major language: Serbo-Croatian • Little evangelism being done • 40% Muslim; 28% Serbian Orthodox; 14% Roman Catholic • Prayer Suggestion: Know that God answers prayer (Ps. 118:5).
Memory Verse for the Week:

Matthew 7:2

[Judy Harder]

Read Mark 1 -- 3

Highlights:

The King who rules by serving others and loving the unlovable. Jesus teaches, heals, and reveals His power over evil spirits. Jesus, Lord of the Sabbath (Mark 2:28). Invitation to be united with God and a fisher of men (1:17; 3:31-35).
The Gospel of Mark depicts in glowing words the relentless activity of Jesus: All the city was gathered together at the door. And He healed many that were sick. . . . And in the morning, rising up a great while before day, He went out, and departed into a solitary place, and there prayed (Mark 1:33-35). Jesus . . . went about doing good (Acts 10:38) among men, removing their sorrows and imparting new hope into their burdened hearts. We also observe the private life of Jesus in solitary communion with His Father, lifting up His eyes unto heaven from whence came His daily inspiration and power.

In spite of a long, difficult day and only a few hours to sleep, the Savior selected the morning, a great while before day, to pray. Some time later, it's recorded: He had healed many; insomuch that they pressed upon Him for to touch Him, as many as had plagues. And unclean spirits, when they saw Him, fell down before Him, and cried, saying, Thou art the Son of God (Mark 3:10-11).

Prayer and the ministry of Christ were always closely intertwined. There are some who think they may be excused from prayer in order to work because they are so busy. There are others who think that God will be pleased with prayer in lieu of work, but the example of Christ rebukes all such inconsistency. It is in combination with prayer and work that we receive the Lord's blessing.

In His great works, our Lord often began with prayer. Eighteen times our Lord's own prayers were spoken of in the Gospels, emphasizing His complete submission to the Father's will.

The great need among Christians today is to set aside time every day to read the Bible and pray. We need times of separation from all activities, even from doing things for the Lord, just to be alone with the Father. If our prayer life and service to God are to be effective, this may require the sacrifice of sleep, business, hobbies, and friends. In doing this, our experience of Christ's presence will become more real, and eventually our whole life will be radically changed. We are told: Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the Word of Truth (II Tim. 2:15).

Sanctify them through Thy Truth: Thy Word is Truth (John 17:17).

Thought for Today:

For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ . . . That He would grant you . . . to be strengthened with might by His Spirit in the inner man (Eph. 3:14,16).
Cross References:

For Mark 1:2: See Mal. 3:1. Mark 1:3: See Is. 40:3. Mark 1:11: See Ps. 2:7.
Word Studies:

1:7 latchet leather strap similar to a shoelace; 1:26 torn him thrown him into convulsions; 1:43 straitly charged sternly warned; 1:45 blaze abroad take known everywhere; every quarter everywhere; 2:1 it was noised the news spread.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by A Family That Loves Jesus • Staff: Chris Robison • Government Officials: Sen. Maria Cantwell (WA) and Rep. Vicky Hartzler (MO) • Country: Botswana (1.5 million) in southern Africa • Major languages: English and Setswana • Limited religious freedom because of local chiefs • 58% Christian; 40% Indigenous; .8% Baha'i; .2% Muslim; .2% Other • Prayer Suggestion: Ask for understanding of the Word of God so you can share it with others (Ps. 119:27).
Memory Verse for the Week:

Matthew 7:2