John 3:16

The message of the Good News comes to a focus in John 3:16. Someone has well said that if you could summarize the whole Bible into one verse, this one is it!

"For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son,

that whosoever believes in Him should not perish,

but have everlasting life."

John 3:16

If we were to meditate upon that verse daily we would be found blessed everyday of our life! In it God sets the pattern of true love, the basis for all love relationships. When you love someone dearly, you are willing to give freely to the point of self-sacrifice.  God loved us so much that He was willing to pay dearly with the life of His Son and then offer us the new life that He had bought for us. That's a lot of love from our Creator God whom we have disobeyed continually! (B.N.)

Precious Pearls: 

-Eternal life is not an extension of a person's miserable, mortal life; eternal life is God's life! 

-to 'believe' is more than intellectual agreement to what God says, it means to put our trust and confidence in Him that He alone can save us (Acts 4:12) It is to put Christ in charge of our present plans and eternal destiny. Believing is both trusting His words as reliable, and relying on Him for the power to change.  If you have never trusted Christ, let this promise of EVERLASTING LIFE be yours now by BELIEVING GOD!

-Once a child of God, He will never let you go! Nothing will separate you from His love!

"I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers,

nor things present, nor things to come, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature,

 shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord."

Romans 8:38-39

O love that will not let me go,

I rest my weary soul in Thee;

I give Thee back the life I owe,

That in Thine ocean depths its flow

May richer, fuller, be.

Claudine



Born Again = Born From Above

Your birthday is a special day that is all about you. It's a time of fun and celebration, a day to enjoy special treats and open presents. Can I ask you: 'How many birthdays you've had?' I don't mean how many times you have blown candles or gotten a year older. You see, the Lord Jesus talked about the need to be born twice, a physical birth and a spiritual birth. He made it clear in John chapter 3 that to be a possessor of eternal life one needs this new birth, a birth which comes from above, not like the first birth from below. Due to the fall, the Bible says that each of us enters this world as a sinner, plus we have all done our own sinning ... "For all have sinned and come short of God's standard" (Romans 3:23), and as a result, we are all spiritually dead (Ephesians 2:1). This is why being born again is absolutely necessary if you want to spend eternity with God in heaven (from: Moments With The Book).

All who welcome Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour of their lives are born spiritually, receiving new life from God, receiving forgiveness of all their sins. Through faith in Christ, this new birth will change us from the inside out (rearranging our attitudes, desires, and motives). God will implant within that person a new nature; a nature that hates sin and craves to please God. Immediately upon believing, the Holy Spirit dwells within, enabling that person to live a godly life (Ephesians 1:13). Such a person then begins to live by a new dimension and a new direction. He has a new disposition, a new nature, a new commitment, and a new purpose for living. Born in this world makes you physically alive and places you in your parent's family (John 1:3); being born of God makes you spiritually alive and puts you in God's family (John 1:12) ... simple yet profound! (Robert Surgenor)

Like Nicodemus (John chapter 3), we must examine Jesus Christ for ourselves (others cannot do it for us). Then if we believe He is who He says, we will want to trust Him, and live for Him. If you accept Jesus as only a prophet or teacher, you have to reject His teaching, for He claimed to be the Son of God, even God Himself. When we understand who Jesus is, we are compelled to believe what He said!

Knowledge is not salvation: The new birth experience can never be adequately explained, It is more than knowledge and mental assent. You should know the Bible, but even more important, you should understand the God whom the Bible reveals and the salvation that He offers.  Our salvation happens when we look up to Jesus believing His Word that He will save us in our great need, on the virtue of the work of His cross (Hebrew 9:28). God has provided this way for us to be forgiven of our sins! "Christ died for our sins ..." 1 Corinthians 15:3

"For God so loved the world,

that He gave His only Son

that whosoever believes in Him

should not perish but have

everlasting life."

John 3:16

When the Lord Jesus died on the cross, He took the punishment that we deserve for all of the sin we have done and will do. Then He arose from the dead to prove that He can save us and give us eternal life.

I have long withstood His grace,

Long provoked Him to His face,

Would not harken to His calls,

Grieved Him by a thousand falls

Now incline me to repent,

Let me now my sins lament;

Now my foul revolt, weep,

Believe, and sin no more.

Precious Pearls:

"Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold all things are become new." 2 Corinthians 5:17

"Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the Word of God, which lives and abides for ever." 1 Peter 1:23

-Once saved, always saved: My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow Me: I give to them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any pluck them out of My hand." John 10:27-29

-"The wages of sin is death but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord" Romans 6:23. Eternal is something that never, never ends. If you think you lost your salvation, it wasn't God's salvation!

-Just like you are born only once into this world, in like manner you are only born once into the kingdom of God.

-We are saved by God's grace (undeserved kindness) without works and I am kept by God's grace without works as well. "For by grace you have been saved through faith, it is not of yourself, it is the gift of God, not of works lest any man should boast" Ephesians 2:8-9

-Good works are important, don't take me wrong! Saved without good works but for good works! (see Ephesians 2:10) This is having the horse before the cart as it were, not the other way around!


' I am no longer the same; Jesus has made all the difference!'
Claudine

"I Am With You Alway"

Do you ever feel that your life is too complex for God to understand? Remember, God created the entire universe, and nothing is too difficult for Him. God is Omnipotent, Omniscient, and Omnipresent. What can possibly prevent Him from helping me in my misery?  As He says in Isaiah 43:12 'I will work, and who shall hinder it?" God created you; He is alive, and His love is bigger than any problem you may face.

"How priceless is your unfailing love!

Both high and low among men find refuge in the shadow of your wings'

Psalm 36:7

We are not alone on the journey! We are strangers and sojourners with God (Ps. 39:12), a thought that makes the journey less troubling, less frightening, less worrisome. We pass through this world and into the next with a loving Father as our constant companion and guide. We're strangers here on earth, but we are never alone on the journey (Ps. 73:23-24). We have One who says, "I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen!" Matthew 28:20

We may loose sight of father, mother, spouse, and friends, but we always know that God is walking beside us!

'Soon shall we mount and soar away to the bright realms of endless day,

and sing, with rapture and surprise, His loving-kindness in the skies!'

Precious Pearl: 'His Name is called Wonderful, Counsellor, The Mighty God, The Everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace." Isaiah 9:6

With Him I can have peace in the storms!

Claudine 

'Where is boasting then? It is excluded!' Romans 3:27

"All things were made by Him; and without Him was not any thing made that was made."
John 1:3

When God created, He made something from nothing. Because we are created beings, we have no basis for pride. Remember that you exist only because God made you, and you have special gifts only because God gave them to you.

With God you are something valuable and unique; apart from God you are nothing, and if you try to live without Him, you will be abandoning the purpose for which you were made. (B.N.)

 

Hymn By: Matthias Claudius

 

We thank Thee, then O Father

For all things bright and good,

The seed-time and harvest,

 Our life, our health, our food;

No gifts have we to offer,

For all Thy love imparts,

But that which Thou desirest,

Our humble, thankful hearts.

 

 

'I am just a nobody trying to tell everybody about Somebody who can save anybody!'

(unknown author)

 

Claudine 

The Purpose of John's Gospel

"In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, 
and the Word was God."
John's Gospel 1:1

This is the truth about Jesus, and the foundation of all truth. If we cannot or do not believe this basic truth, we will not have enough faith to trust our eternal destiny to Him. If you accept Jesus as only a prophet or teacher, you have to reject His teaching, for He claimed to be God's Son, even God Himself. ( B.N.)

That is why John wrote this gospel, to build faith and confidence in Jesus Christ, so that we may believe that He truly was and is the Son of God.  Hope you will pick up your Bible and start reading , this would be a good spot to start, John's gospel.

"That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, of the Word of Life; That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with His Son Jesus Christ. And these things write we unto you, that your joy may be full." 1 Epistle of John 1:1-4

"If we receive the testimony of men, the testimony of God is greater: for this is the testimony of God which He has testified of His Son. He that believes on the Son of God has the witness in himself: he that believes not God has made Him a liar; because he believes not the record that God gave of His Son. And this is the record, that God has given to us eternal life, and this life is in His Son. He that has the Son has life; and he that has not the Son of God has not life. These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that you may know that you have eternal life, and that you may believe on the name of the Son of God." 1 Epistle of John 5:9-13



Precious Pearls:

"But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ,

the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through His Name."

John 20:31

More on John's gospel in the next blogs, D.V.

Claudine 

What Did He Die For?

On this Remembrance Day, I would like to start my blog by quoting a beautiful song by Twila Paris:

WHAT DID HE DIE FOR

He was twenty-one in 1944

He was hope and he was courage on a lonely shore

Sent there by a mother with love beyond her tears

Just a young 'Canadian' who chose to rise above his fears

And as I watch him struggle up that hill

Without a thought of turning back

I cannot help but wonder ...

What did he die for? When he died for you and me

Made the sacrifice so that we could all be free

I believe we will answer each to heaven

For the way we spend a priceless liberty

Look inside and ask the question

What did he die for?

When he died for me.

To the darkest day in A.D. 33

Came the mercy and compassion of eternity

Sent there by a Father with love beyond His tears

Blameless One, the only Son

To bear the guilt of all these years

And as I watch Him struggle up that hill

Without a thought of turning back

I cannot help but wonder ...

What did He die for? When He died for you and me

Made the sacrifice so that we could all be free

I believe we will answer each to heaven

For the way we spend a priceless liberty

Look inside and ask the question

What did He die for?

When He died for me.

In Luke 23 we read about Barabbas' release and Jesus' crucifixion! This Barabbas had committed a crime and deserved death. I can see myself very clearly in this Barabbas, can you?  In Genesis chapter 3 we read how sin came into the world through Adam ... and the Bible tells us that, 'by the offence of one (Adam) judgment came upon all men to condemnation ... (Romans 5:18a).

When we continue reading we find Barabbas released of his death penalty because Jesus took his place on that day. Like Barabbas, we too are criminals because we have ALL broken God's Holy law (Romans 3:23) and deserve to die (physically & spiritually) "For the wages of sin is DEATH" (Romans 6:23). But thanks be unto God, Jesus did take our place too when He suffered the sin judgment we all deserved on that cruel cross! "For Christ also has once suffered for sins, The Just for the unjust, that He might bring us to God.." 1 Peter 3:18

Then in this same chapter we come to another criminal; this one is not given physical freedom but is crucified along side the Lord (two of them actually)! But as this thief was about to die, he turned to Christ for forgiveness and said to the Lord: 'Remember me when you come into your Kingdom!' and Christ accepted him. This criminal received freedom from his sins and its eternal penalty!

I'm sure that we, like Barabbas, are all grateful for our physical freedom on this Remembrance Day but are we even more grateful for the spiritual freedom available to us through Christ's Work? How beautifully this hymn by William Horsley puts it:

There is a green hill far away,

Without a city wall,

Where the dear Lord was crucified,

Who died to save us all.

We may not know, we cannot tell

What pains He had to bear;

But we believe it was for us

He hung and suffered there.

He died that we might be forgiven,

He died to make us good,

That we might go at last to heaven,

Saved by His precious blood.

There was no other good enough

To pay the price of sin;

He only could unlock the gate

Of heaven, and let us in.

O dearly, dearly has He loved,

And we must love Him too,

And trust in His redeeming blood,

And try His works to do!

Precious Pearl:
-Thankful for the second part of verse Romans 5:18 "Therefore as by the offence of one judgment came upon all men to condemnation; EVEN SO, BY THE RIGHTEOUSNESS OF ONE THE FREE GIFT CAME UPON ALL MEN UNTO JUSTIFICATION OF LIFE."
-"Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures; and that He was buried, and that He rose again the third day according to the Scriptures; and that He was seen of Peter (Cephas), then of the twelve: after that, He was seen of above 500 brethren at once..."

Remembering my freedoms, and being grateful beyond words,
Claudine

Jesus Christ = God in the Flesh

The central issue of life is what we believe about Jesus Christ. Other spiritual questions are irrelevant UNLESS we first decide to believe that Jesus Christ is who He said He is!

In Luke 20:41-44 we read about the Pharisees who knew that the Messiah would be a descendant of David, but they did not understand that He would be more than a human descendant, He would be God in the flesh.

The Lord Jesus quoted Psalm 110:1 to them to show that David knew that the Messiah would be both human and divine (P.S. the Lord often quoted from Old Testament Scriptures: from the books of Moses - the Law, the Prophets and the Psalms, thus authenticating for us that it is the Word of God).

In Matthew 16: 15-16, Jesus asked His disciples, 'But who do you say I am?' to which Peter responded, 'You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.' Not everyone accepts Peter's answer, but no one should avoid Jesus' question. (Josh McDowell)

In John 20:28 we read: "And Thomas answered and said to Him, 'My Lord and my God!' Jesus accepts the designation. He rebukes Thomas for his unbelief, but not for his worship. (Stott, BC, 28) Note that when men or angels were worshiped, the worshippers were immediately rebuked and told  to worship God (Acts 10:25-26; Revelation 19:10). Jesus not only accepts this worship from Thomas, but encourages his statement of faith. (Josh McDowell)

"And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father." Philippians 2:11

"And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory." 1 Timothy 3:16

"Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly that God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Christ." Acts 2:36

"Who is the image of the invisible God.." Colossians 1:15 'What God essentially is, is made manifest in Christ.' (Bruce, EH, 48) "For in Him dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily." Colossians 2:9

God Himself calls him God: "But to the Son He says: 'Your throne, O God, is forever and ever.." Hebrews 1:8  'Once again, the evidence is conclusive - Jesus Christ is called God in the Scriptures' (Schultz, DPC, 180) So you can see that there is more than one person in the Godhead, actually - a Triune God. (1 Cor. 4-6; Luke 4:18; Heb 9:14; Eph 4:4-5; Acts 2:33; 2 Corinthians 13:13...)

"Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: but made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: and being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. ("... Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; and that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures" 1 Cor. 15:3-4.) Wherefore God also has highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father." Philippians 2:6-11

"..If you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you shall be saved." Romans 10:9

Precious Pearl: He is your Lord only if you do as He says, and if He is not Lord of all, He is not Lord at all!
"That all should honor the Son just as they honor the Father. He who does not honor the Son does not honor the Father who sent him. Most assuredly, I say unto you, he who hears My word and believes in Him who sent Me has everlasting life, and shall not come into judgment, but is passed from death into life." John 5:24

The Christian's hope: "Looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Saviour JESUS CHRIST!" Titus 2:13

"The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit, be with you all. Amen." 2 Corinthians 13:13

Claudine

10 Reminders To Help Believers Quiet Their Noisy, Stressed Souls!

Handling Stress!

The economy, unemployment, terrorism, politics, finances, moral decline, major sickness, a prodigal child, an unhealthy marriage – for most of us contemplating any one of these pressures will knot our stomach. We become uneasy and tense. Our soul ceases to be quiet like the still waters but instead becomes deafeningly noisy like a wailing infant. In other words, we are 'stressed'.

Our culture consistently uses the term 'stress' to describe the mental or emotional tension we experience because of life's hardships. The more precise biblical terms that capture the essence of society's concept of stress include anxiety, fear, anger, despair, and guilt.

When we begin to understand stress from this biblical perspective, its resolution becomes apparent. Stress is not identical with the pressures of life. Nor are the pressures of life the cause of stress. Stress is the mental and emotional tension that is generated from our unbiblical responses to pressure.

Imagine Paul and Silas, unfairly beaten and tossed into the Philippian jail without a fair hearing, singing praises at midnight (Acts 16). Had they experienced extreme pressure? Yes! Were they stressed? Apparently not. Their stress-free handling of the pressure led to the salvation of their jailor.

Later writing to the Philippians from a different jail, Paul would remind them about 'rejoicing always' and 'the peace that surpasses all understanding' (4:4-9). Paul seemingly embodied the mature believer described in Isaiah 26:3, 'You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You.' The mindset portrayed in these two passages are the antithesis of stress. Stress-free living begins with trust in God in the midst of pressure.

But why do we face pressure in life? Genesis 3 gives the answer. After Adam fell, God cursed the ground from which Adam had been taken and over which Adam was to have dominion. Adam's dominion became filled with hardship and pressure. Why? In addition to appropriate consequences of his rebellion, God intended the hardness of life to drive mankind back to dependency upon Himself.

So our primary goal in handling life's pressures is to learn how to depend upon God and please Him – not simply to get rid of stresses. As we learn to depend on God, our soul will be quietly peaceful like a weaned child resting against his mother (Ps 131).

10 Reminders to help believers quiet their noisy, stressed souls:

1. Trust that the sovereign God is in control of all pressures in your life, using them for His good purposes to transform you into the likeness of Christ (Genesis 50:20; Romans 8:28-29).
2. Recognize that guilt is a big 'stressor' in life. Certain pressures come as consequences of our own actions (Galatians 6:7-8). Irresponsible debt is an obvious example. Confess any known sin. Begin growing in Christ, putting away the ungodly actions and attitudes that may have led to your stressful circumstances (Proverbs 28:13).
3. Pray with specific requests and thank God for His good purposes in trials (Philippians 4:67).
4. Repent of any self-willed efforts to change circumstances that are beyond your control. Often believers – caught up in their pride – seek to do things only God can do (such as ensuring that our kids turn out right, avoiding job loss, fixing the economy, and converting an unbelieving spouse). Clearly when we seek to control things that only God can do, we will become stressed (Psalm 131).
5. Seek to return good for evil when pressure arises from the sinfulness of others (Romans 4:8-9).
6. Pray that God will help you to control your thinking so as not to worry, fear, despair (Matthew 6:25-34). Cultivate the godly thinking that Paul describes in Philippians 4:8-9.
7. Work hard to solve problems within your control today (Matthew 6:34; Ephesians 4:26-27). God has given each of us enough challenges for today. We need to take proper care and concern for today's issues while we can plan wisely for the future.
8. Seek wise, biblical counseling in the areas of your greatest stress. Start with the most significant issue first (Proverbs 6:6-8).
9. Seek regular accountability to help you respond biblically to the pressures of life (Proverbs 13:20; Hebrews 10:24-25).
10. Attempt to establish helpful routines of diet, exercise, and adequate rest (1 Timothy 4:8).

By: Brent Aucoin

Lord, keep our eyes and hearts fixed not on the
temporary joys or disappointments but on the victorious
realities of eternity. Thank You for Your death and
resurrection that guarantee our forever future.
(From today's Our Daily Bread)

“Casting ALL your cares upon Him; for He careth for you.”

1 Peter 5:7

There Shall Be No Sign Given

In Luke 11:29-32 we find the Saviour saying: "This is an evil generation: they seek a sign; and there shall no sign be given it, but the sign of Jonas the prophet."

What happened to Jonas was a sign to the people of Nineveh that God had sent him. What happens to ME will be a sign that God has sent Me, the Son of Man, "For as Jonas was three days and three nights in the whale's belly; so shall the Son of man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth." Matthew 12:40

The people of Nineveh and the queen of Sheba had turned to God with far less evidence than Jesus was giving his listeners, and far less than we have today. We have eyewitness reports of the risen Lord Jesus, the continuing power of the Holy Spirit (from Pentecost to today), easy access to the Bible, and knowledge of 2,000 years of Christ's acts through His Church.

With the knowledge and insight available to us, our response to Christ ought to be even more complete and wholehearted. If you have a hard time seeing God at work in the world and in your life, check your vision. Are any sinful desires blinding you to Christ?

"The queen of the south shall rise up in the judgment (Hebrews 9:27; Revelation 20:15) with the men of this generation, and condemn them: because she came from a distant land to hear the wisdom of Solomon, and behold a greater than Solomon is here. Also, the men of Nineveh shall rise up in the judgment with this generation, and shall condemn it: for they REPENTED at the preaching of Jonas; and, behold, a greater than Jonas is here." V31-32

"... Repent and believe the gospel" Mark 1:15

 "For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures; and that He was buried, and that He rose again THE THIRD DAY according to the Scripture ..." 1 Corinthians 15:3-4

Precious Pearls:
-Don't seek for signs, seek for Jesus!
-"And you shall seek Me, and find Me, when you shall search for Me with all your heart." Jeremiah  29:13
-Take a few minutes and read the book of Jonah in the Bible, it only has 4 little chapters!

God's Blessings,
Claudine

This Is How You Should Pray!

In Luke chapter 11:1, one of the Lord Jesus' disciples asked Him: 'Lord teach us how to pray!' And the Lord gave them the well known prayer we call 'The Lord's Prayer'. 

But do remember also that the Lord Jesus taught His disciples in Matthew 6:7 "But when you pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen (people of other religions) do: for they think that they will be heard for their much speaking."  Repeating the same words over and over like a magic incantation is no way to ensure that God will hear your prayer. On the other hand, it's not wrong to come to God many times with the same requests, the Lord encourages persistent prayer.

This prayer in Luke 11:1-4 is often called the Lord's Prayer because Jesus gave it to His disciples. It can be a pattern for our prayers. Notice the order in this prayer: we should 1) praise God, 2) pray for His work in the world, 3) pray for our daily needs, and 4) pray for help in our daily struggles. 

Notice first, the Lord praises God; then He made requests. Praising God first puts us in the right frame of mind to tell Him about our needs. Too often our prayers are more like shopping lists than conversations.

Persistence in prayer overcomes our insensitivity, not God's. To practice persistence does more to change our heart and mind than His, and it helps us understand and express the intensity of our need. Persistence in prayer helps us recognize God's work. (Bible Notes)

Precious Pearls:
 How long has it been since you talked with the Lord?

God is good and faithful!
Claudine

Questions or Doubts?

In Luke 7:18-23, John the Baptist was in prison and couldn't see what Jesus was up to out there. Therefore he wondered if Jesus was truly the One that the Jews were waiting for -- Their Messiah!

John's doubts were natural and Jesus didn't rebuke him for them. John sent two of his own disciples so they could go see and ask the Lord for him.  Jesus explained that He had accomplished what the Messiah was supposed to accomplish. The blinds could see, the lame could walk, the lepers were cleansed, the deaf could hear, the dead were raised ...

God can handle our doubts, and He welcomes our questions. He encourages us to search the Scriptures. Do you have questions about Jesus, about who He is, or what He expects of you? Admit them to yourself and to God, and begin looking for answers. Only as you face your doubts honestly can you begin to resolve them. (Bible Notes)

Precious Pearl:
-"And you shall seek Me, and find Me, when you shall search for Me with all your heart." Jeremiah 29:13
-"Search the Scriptures; for in them you think you have eternal life; and they are they which testify of Me." John 5:39
-"But seek ye first the kingdom of God..." Matthew 6:33


Claudine

Won't You Come And Be Healed?

In the Luke 8:40-56 section of the Bible, it starts off with a synagogue leader who is at the end of himself and is found powerless in the situation he is in. He therefore comes to the Lord for the healing of his daughter. Jesus honored this respected man as he fell at His feet in faith. He never turns away a sincere soul! No matter your position in life, whether high or low, there is healing for your sin sick soul if you will humbly come to the Lord Jesus by faith. "You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly." Romans 5:6 NIV

Intertwined in the same event, a woman who also is in need of healing discreetly comes to the Lord by faith, and touches His garment and is healed. But the Lord, knowing just what had happened brings the whole matter to light for all to hear. You see, in Romans 10:9 we read that "If you declare with your mouth, 'Jesus is Lord!' and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved." Romans 10:9-10 NIV

When you receive forgiveness of sins from God, He does not want you to keep this to yourself. This great miracle is meant to be shared so that others may know and be lead to Christ also and that God may be glorified in this life and the next!

There was many people in that Luke chapter 8 crowd but only a couple came to Christ for healing. Like today, many are familiar with who Jesus is, but they have never come to Him in repentance and faith in the work of His cross for the forgiveness of sins!

Do I Need to be saved?
God is Holy (1 Peter 1:16); Man is sinful (Romans 3:23); Sin separates man from God (Isaiah 59:2); It is impossible for man to save himself (Romans 3:20).
Can I be saved?
God sent His Son to be the Saviour (1 John 4:10); The living Saviour invites sinners to received Him (Matthew 11:28); Forgiveness of sins and salvation can be yours today (1 Peter 3:18)
How Can I be Saved?
Agree with God that you are a lost sinner (Romans 5:8); Believe/accept that Jesus Christ died for your sins and receive Him to be your Saviour (John 1:12).

Precious Pearl:
"But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon Him; and with His stripes we are healed." Isaiah 53:5
"For it is by grace you are saved through faith -- and this is not from yourself, it is the gift of God!" Ephesians 2:8
"... Christ died for our sins .." 1 Corinthians 15:3

Won't you come and be healed,
Won't you whisper 'I yield'?
Claudine

Jesus IS the Good Samaritan!

From Luke chapter 7 verses 11-17 are just 7 verses, but even in this short account we can learn so much about the Lord's compassion and love toward us! God's Word is not like man's word, for it is filled with power from on high. "For the Word of God is quick (alive) and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart." Hebrews 4:12

Now, just as the widow's son was dead, the whole world was dead in sin explains Ephesians 2:1. Being dead, we could do nothing to help ourselves - we couldn't even ask for help! (Doesn't that remind you of the story of the Good Samaritan?)  But God had compassion on us, and He sent His only begotten Son to raise us to life with Him (Ephesians 2:4-7). The dead young man did not earn his second chance at life, and we cannot earn our new life in Christ. But we can accept God's gift of life, praise Him for it, and use our life to thank Him by doing His will.

Precious Pearls:
-"For by grace are you saved through faith: and that not of yourselves it is the gift of God: not of works lest any man should boast".  Ephesians 2:8-9
-"Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures (old testament prophecy); and that He was buried, and that He rose again the third day according to the Scriptures." 1 Corinthians 15:3-4
-"For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son that whosoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life." John 3:16

There is a living Saviour sitting at God's right hand even now, waiting for you to come to Him with all your sin, He will forgive you, forgive you now!

"Come unto Me, all you that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and you shall find rest unto your souls." Matthew 11:28

May the angels of heaven rejoice over one sinner that repents even today!
For His Glory!
Claudine

There is no other book like The B-I-B-L-E

God's Word The Bible:

-This book reveals the mind of God, the state of man, the way of salvation, the doom of sinners, and the happiness of believers.
-Its doctrines are holy, its precepts are binding, its histories are true, and its decisions are immutable.
-Read it to be wise, believe it to be safe, and practice it to be holy.
-It contains light to direct you, food to support you, and comfort to cheer you.
-It is the traveller's map, the pilgrim's staff, the pilot's compass, the soldier's sword, and the Christian's charter.
-Here, too, heaven is opened, and the gates of hell disclosed.
-Christ is its grand subject, our good its design, and the glory of God its end.
-It should fill the memory, rule the heart, and guide the feet.
-Read slowly, frequently, prayerfully.
-It is a mine of wealth, a paradise of glory, and a river of pleasure.
-It is given you in life, will be opened at the judgment, and be remembered forever.
-It involves highest responsibility, will reward the greatest labour, and condemn all who trifle with its sacred contents.
-Owned, it is riches; studied, it is wisdom; trusted, it is salvation; loved, it is character; and obeyed, it is power. (Author Unknown)

Sweeter yes, than honey, worth far more than gold,
Is God's Word the Bible,
Best story ever told.
It tells where we came from,
And all that's going to be.
I love God's Word the Bible,
For it speaks to me

Good news of salvation
God's Son, Jesus came,
To this earth to save us,
From our sin and shame.
That all who receive Him,
Someday in heaven will be.
I love God's Word the Bible,
For it speaks to me.

Claudine

Where Is 'Baby Jesus' Today?

Although our first picture of Jesus is as a baby in a manger, it must not be our last. The Christ Child in the manger has been the subject of a beautiful Christmas scene, but we cannot leave Him there. This tiny, helpless baby lived a sinless life, died for our sins, ascended to heaven (read 1 Corinthians 15:3-4), and will come back to this earth as King of kings (read Revelation 19:16). Christ will rule the world and judge all people according to their decisions about Him (read John 3:36; Acts 17:31). Do you still picture Jesus as a baby in a manger or even as a man still on a cross, or is He your resurrected Lord and Saviour? (Read Romans 10:9)                                                                       

We must never forget that the infant Jesus has moved on to take His place as the reigning Lord. He is no more in the crib, no more on the cross!  "God raised Him from the dead and seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every title that can be given, not only in the present age but also in the one to come." Ephesians 1:20-21

Precious Pearl:
-God cares so much about you that He sent His Son to die for your sins  (read John 3:16; 1Corinthians 15:3-4).
-Oh the wonders of His glorious love and my own worthlessness!

Jesus Hail!

Enthroned in glory, there forever abide;

All the heavenly hosts adore Thee,

Seated at Thy Father's side:

There for sinners Thou art pleading,

There Thou dost our place prepare,

Ever for us interceding

Till in glory we appear

Worship, honor, pow'r and blessing

Thou art worthy to receive;

Loudest praises without ceasing,

Meet it is for us to give!

Claudine



The Devils Also Believe ... And Tremble!

"You believe that there is one God; you do well: the devils also believe, and tremble." James 2:19

I often hear people say: "I believe in God!"  They seem to take comfort in the fact that they believe but I fear sometimes this could be  all they have.  The Bible says in James 2:19, the devils also believe and they tremble (they know they have little time left before their judgment - Revelation 12:12). This simple belief is not enough to take you to heaven! Do not be deceived!  If you only believe there is a God, and that's where it stops, you're in bad company!

We all know that we've sinned (Romans 3:23), but there is a repentance needed, dear reader (Mark 1:15), and faith in the work of Christ on the cross for salvation (Ephesians 2:8-9; Colossians 1:14). You need a spiritual U-Turn (the Bible calls it to be born-again)! You see, one is born-again, not by just believing in God, or trusting someone's word, or answering an alter call, or by some miracle sign, or saying a certain prayer, or even by turning a new leaf ... but by repentance and trusting what the Word of God says about you, about God and about His Son! Check out verse John 3:16, it talks about God, about His Son, and about you!  Won't you believe it? My prayer is that you will not only believe in God but BELIEVE GOD! 

"For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life." John 3:16

"Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the Word of God, which lives and abides for ever." 1 Peter 1:23 

Only God in His mercy can forgive our sins. We can't earn forgiveness by our deeds (read Titus 3:5). When someone claims to have faith, what he or she may have is a 'head knowledge'. As Christians, we are saved by God's grace, and salvation frees us from sin's control. True faith transforms our conduct as well as our thoughts. What this means is that those who become Christians become new persons.  They are not the same anymore, for the old life is gone, a new life has begun (2 Corinthians 5:17). All this newness of life is from God, who brought us back to Himself through what Christ did.  If our life remains unchanged, we don't truly believe the truths we claim to believe.  It isn't enough just to have faith. Faith that doesn't show itself by good deeds is no faith at all, it is dead and useless faith, James says in 2:17.  True faith always results in a changed life and good deeds. (B.N.)

Paul speaks against those who try to be saved by deeds instead of true faith (Romans chapter 3). We cannot earn our salvation by serving and obeying God.  But such actions show that our commitment to God is real.  And James speaks against those who confuse mere head knowledge with true faith. After all, even demons know who Jesus is, but they don't obey him (James 2:19).You need much more than that, you need a relationship with God through the Lord Jesus Christ

 "This is the message He has given us to announce to you: God is light and there is no darkness in Him at all.  So we are lying if we say we have fellowship with God but go on living in spiritual darkness. We are not living in the truth. But if we are living in the light of God's presence, just as Christ is, then we have fellowship with each other, and the blood of Jesus Christ, God's Son cleanses us from every sin. If we say we have no sin, we are only fooling ourselves, and refusing to accept the truth. But if we confess our sins to Him, He is faithful and just to cleanse us from every sin. If we claim we have not sinned, we are calling God a liar and showing that His Word has no place in our hearts."  1 Epistle of John 1:6-10


Precious Pearls:
"Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures" 1 Corinthians 15:3

"Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you." James 4:7

"You must be born again!" John 3:3,7

"He that believes on the Son has everlasting life: and he that believes not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abides on him." John 3:36

Special Note:

The power of God to save is not in the one believing but in the One believed not in the one trusting but in the One trusted!

Jesus is my Everything ...but what about you?

Claudine



Preach & Teach

This will conclude my blog on the book of Matthew.

 In this last chapter of the book, Matthew 28, we read in V 19:

"Go ye therefore and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and the Son, and of the Holy Spirit."

Something should be mentioned about the Trinity!  Jesus' words affirm the reality of the Trinity.  As we see here, the concept comes directly from The Lord Himself. He did not say baptize them in the nameS, but in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. The word Trinity does not occur in Scripture, but it well describes the three-in-one nature of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. When God said "Let us make man in our image" Genesis 1:26 perhaps this is why we are a three part person as well, body-soul-spirit?

Now about baptism, one thing should be said: according to God's Word, the water of baptism does not save, but God's grace accepted through faith in Christ (Ephesians 2:8-9). Because of Jesus' response to the criminal on the cross who died along side him, we know it is possible to be saved without being baptized (Luke 23:43).  Also, baptism alone without faith does not guarantee that a person will go to heaven.  Those who refuse to accept Jesus as their Lord and Saviour will be condemned regardless if whether or not they have been baptized.

Mark 16:15-16 "And He said unto them, Go ye into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature. He that believes and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believes not shall be damned."

The disciples were to baptize people because baptism unites believers with Jesus Christ in their death to sin and their resurrection to new life. Baptism symbolizes submission to Christ, a willingness to live God's way, and identification with God's covenant people.

Why is God commanding us to tell others (Romans 10:9) of His wondrous love for sinners? Because He doesn't want any to perish (1 Timothy 1:4) in that awful place called 'hell' which was prepared for the Devil and his angels (Matt 25:41). He has made provision and it is up to us to accept or reject it (See John 3:36).

Precious Pearl:
"And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire." Revelation 20:15

"The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit, be with you all." 1 Corinthians 13:14 
Claudine

CHRISTIANITY'S FOUNDATION

The resurrection of the Lord Jesus from the dead is the central fact of Christian history. On it, the Church is built; without it, there would be no Christian church today.  Jesus' resurrection is unique, in that only Christianity has a God who became human, literally died for His people's sin and was raised again in power and glory to rule His church forever. (Bible notes)

In Matthew 28:11-15, Jesus' resurrection was already causing a great stir in Jerusalem.  A group of women was moving quickly through the streets, looking for the disciples to tell them the amazing news that Jesus was alive. At the same time, the soldiers sheepishly went to the chief priests to break the news, and together were plotting how to cover up the resurrection. In desperation, they bribed the soldiers to tell the fantastic lie that while the soldiers slept, the disciples stole the body of Jesus. This explanation raises more questions than it answers:

- Why were the soldiers sleeping when they should have been on guard?
-How could the disciples have rolled the stone away without waking the so called sleeping guards?
-How could all the soldiers have fallen asleep at the same time?
-If they were asleep, how did they know that the disciples stole the body?
-If the story was true, why did the soldiers have to be bribed to tell it?
-If the disciples had stolen the body, why had they taken time to remove the grave clothes and fold the napkin? (Luke 24:12; John 20:6-7)
-If the disciples had stolen the body, where did they put it? Why was it never found?
(Believer's Bible Commentary)

Truth is self-verifying; a lie has to be supported by countless other lies!

Without the belief in the resurrection the Christian faith could not have come into being. The disciples would have remained crushed and defeated men. Even had they continued to remember Jesus as their beloved teacher, His crucifixion would have forever silenced any hopes of His being the Messiah. The cross would have remained the sad and shameful end of His 'career'.  The origin of Christianity therefore hinges on the belief of the early disciples that God had raised Jesus from the dead. (William Lane Craig)

Today there is still a great stir over the resurrection, and there are still only two choices: to believe that Jesus rose from the dead, or to be closed to the truth - denying it, ignoring it, or trying to explain it away. There will always be people who say that Jesus didn't rise from the dead.  Paul assures us that many people saw Jesus after His resurrection: Peter, the disciples; more than 500 believers (most of whom were still alive when Paul wrote this); James the half brother of Jesus, all the Apostles; and finally Paul himself. The resurrection is a historical fact, and the Apostles gave their lives for the truth!  Would you give your life for a lie? Of course not!

Don't be discouraged by doubters who deny the resurrection. Be filled with hope because of the knowledge that one day all they who believe in Him will see the living proof when Christ returns.

Precious Pearls:
-"I am He that lives, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen.." Revelation 1:18
-"And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward it with me, to give to every man according as his work shall be." Revelation 22:1
-"And if Christ be not raised, your faith is vain; ye are yet in your sins....But now is Christ risen from the dead..." 1Cor. 15:17, 20

"Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand; by which also ye are saved, if ye keep in memory what I preached unto you, unless ye have believed in vain. For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures ; and that He was buried, and that He rose again the third day according to the Scriptures : and that He was seen of Cephas (Peter), then the twelve: after that, He was seen of above five hundred brethren at once ..." 1 Corinthians 15 : 3 -6

(If you are looking for a good book to help you look into all the evidences of Christianity, 'The New EVIDENCE that demands a verdict' by Josh McDowell, I found to be avery good book)

Will you be ready when Jesus comes?
Claudine

What Will Your Answer Be?

"What shall I do then with Jesus which is called Christ?" Matthew 27:22

In Matthew 27:15-26, Pilate made no decision concerning Christ, he preferred to stay on the fence as it were and let the crowds crucify the Lord. Although he washed his hands, the guilt remained. Washing your hands, or staying on the fence doesn't cancel your guilt, it merely gives you a false sense of peace. 

Pilate had several opportunities to make the right decision.  His conscience told him Jesus was innocent. Pilate had no good excuse to condemn Jesus, but he was afraid of the crowd. Are you also afraid of the crowd?  Don't let the crowd make YOUR DECISION concerning Christ!  It is your life, your responsibility and most importantly, your soul that is at stake!  Listen to what the Saviour said in Matthew 16:26 "For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world (the crowd), and lose his own soul?"

Finally, we know by reading the Scriptures that the outcome was all planned by the Father so that His Son would go to the cross and die for our sins. "Him being delivered by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God, you have taken, and by wicked hands have crucified and slain." Acts 2:23

Then in verse 38, we read of the Lord being crucified between two thieves. One of either side of Him. We can read in more details of this wonderful written account in Luke 23:39-43. As those two thieves were about to die, one of them turned to Christ for forgiveness, and Christ accepted him. This for one thing shows that our deeds don't save us, but FAITH IN CHRIST ALONE.  Until the moment you have your last breath, it is never too late to turn to God. But not everyone has a last moment, we very well know that our life can so suddenly go from us in a fraction of a second.  So don't count on your last moment, you may never get that opportunity! Plus, our life will be much more useful and fulfilling if we turn to God early.

Oh, what will you do with Jesus?

The call comes low and clear,

The solemn words are sounding

In every listening ear.

Eternal life's in the question

And joy through eternity.

Then, what will you do with Jesus?

Oh, what shall the answer be?

Precious Pearl:

-"And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call upon the Name of the Lord shall be saved!"  Acts 2:21; Romans 10:13

-"For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life." John 3:16

-"For God send not His Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through Him might be saved." John 3:17

-"He that believes on Him is not condemned: but he that believes not is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God." John 3:18

-"For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour; who will have (desires) all men to be saved, and to come to the knowledge of the truth. For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus; who gave Himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time." 1 Timothy 2:3-6

-"But if we walk in the light, as He is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ, His Son cleanses us from all sin." 1 John 1:7

In Christ alone,

Claudine



He Is Risen As He Said He Would!

"But after I have been raised from the dead, 
I will go ahead of you to Galilee and meet you there."

Matthew 26:32

"'No founder of any world religion known to men ever dared say a thing like that!' - Wilbur Smith

John R.W. Scott writes: "Jesus Himself never predicted His death without adding that He would rise, and described His coming resurrection as a sign."  Matthew 12:38-40; 16:21; 17:9; 17:22-23; 20:18-19; 26:32; 27:63; Mark 9:10; Luke 9:22-27; John 2:18-22.

Jesus Christ not only predicted His resurrection but also emphasised that His rising from the dead would be a sign to authenticate His claims to be the Messiah (Matt 12; John 2).  "Therefore when He had risen from the dead, His disciples remembered that He had said this to them; and they believed the Scripture, and the word which Jesus had said." John 2:20-22

'Christ Himself deliberately staked His whole claim to the credit of men upon His resurrection.  When asked for a sign He pointed to this sign as His single and sufficient credential.' (B.B.Warfield)

'Could the Man who predicted His death and resurrection, only to have it come to pass exactly as He had said, be anything but God?' (Corduan, NDA, 227)

Repent and believe the gospel (Mark 1:15), here is the gospel in a nutshell! "For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures; and that He was buried, and that He rose again the third day according to the Scriptures." 1 Corinthians 15:3-4

Precious Pearl:

-'The Christian faith is faith in Christ.  Its value or worth is not in the one believing but in the One believed - not in the one trusting but in the One trusted!' (Josh McDowell)

-so get your assurance from God's Word, not from your thoughts, feelings or whatever or whoever else

Only a risen Christ could have such transforming power in a Christian's life!

I know He lives cause He lives within my heart!

Claudine

"Behold the Lamb of God!"

After observing His last Jewish Passover, the Saviour in Matthew 26:25-30 instituted what we know as the Lord's Supper. From the Paschal meal, Jesus took the bread and the cup and gave them new meaning. In V26, the Lord took the bread and blessed it, and broke it, and gave it to the disciples saying: 'Take it and eat it, for this is my body'.  Since His body had not yet been given on the cross but was there present saying these words, the bread was not changed into His body but represented the body in which He lived a sinless life and thus qualified Himself to be the bearer of sins. It is worthy of note that He was speaking figuratively when saying: 'This is my body'! (Bible notes)

The same is true of the cup, the container is used to express the thing contained.  The cup contained the fruit of the vine, which in turn was a symbol of the blood of the new covenant.  His blood would cleanse from ALL SIN!  His blood was sufficient to provide forgiveness for all, but here V28 we read: it was 'shed for many' in that it was only effective in removing the sins of those who believed! (William MacDonald)

The old covenant was a shadow of the new (Jeremiah 31:31; Hebrews chapter 8), pointing forward to the day when Jesus Himself would be the final and ultimate sacrifice for sin.  Rather than an unblemished lamb slain on the altar, the perfect Lamb of God was slain on the cross, a sinless sacrifice, so that our sins could be forgiven once and for all.  All those who repent and believe in Christ receive that forgiveness! (Bible notes)

The same John the Baptist that preached: "Repent and believe the gospel" Mark 1:15 said: "Behold the Lamb of God which takes away the sin of the world". John 1:29

"The blood of Jesus Christ God's Son cleanses us from ALL SIN!" 1 Epistle of John 1:7b

Precious Pearls:
-nothing but His blood will do
-cleanses past, present and future sins
-nothing to add to this perfect sacrifice
-no other way or person can make you right with God

God said it, I believe it, that settles it!
How about you?
Claudine

Not Saved By Good Works But For Good Works! - Read Ephesians 2:8-10

"And above all these things put on charity which is the bond of perfectness!"
Colossians 3:14

In Matthew 25:31-46 we read about the King who judges the nations, which takes place on earth after Christ comes to reign (V31), which is after the 7 year tribulation.  This is a judgment of those Gentiles who survive the tribulation and whose salvation is evidenced by their treatment of the Jews (Joel 3:1-2, 12-14; Matt 25:31-46).  Surviving Jews will also be judged at this same time. (see Ezekiel 20:33-44)

This passage cannot be used to teach salvation by works.  For the Bible clearly teaches that salvation is by faith and not by works (Ephesians 2:8-9). But the Bible is just as clear in teaching that true faith produces good works (Ephesians 2:10).  So we must understand that the Gentiles are not saved by befriending the Jewish remnant at that time, but that this kindness reflects their love for the Lord. (William MacDonald)

As well, this parable can teach us acts of mercy we all can do everyday.  These acts do not depend on wealth, ability, or intelligence; they are simple acts freely given and freely received. We have no excuse to neglect those who have deep needs.  Jesus demands our personal involvement in caring for other's needs. (Bible notes)

Precious Pearls:

-What affects His people, affects Him

-We have the potential for showing kindness to Him
by showing kindness to those who love Him

-We can all see the importance of serving where service is needed

-'Who is my neighbour?'  All those God puts in our path!

"And now abides faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love."
1 Corinthians 13:13

By His wonderful grace,

Claudine 

What Are False Prophets?

"And Jesus answered and said unto them, Take heed that no man deceive you."
Matthew 24:4

The Old Testament frequently mentions false prophets.  False prophets claimed to receive messages from God, but they preached a 'health & wealth' message.  They said what the people wanted to hear, even when the nation was not following God as it should. 

There were false prophets in Jesus' day, and we have them just the same today!  So, in Matthew 24 The Lord Jesus warns us against them.

"And many false prophets shall rise, and shall deceive many." Matthew 24:11

Upon close examination it becomes clear that many nice-sounding messages don't agree with God's message in the Bible. Only a solid foundation in God's Word can equip us to perceive the errors and distortions in false teaching.

To keep from being deceived, we must understand that Jesus' return will be unmistakable (Mark 13:26); no one will doubt that it is He.  If you have to be told that the Messiah has come, then He hasn't.  Christ coming in the end times will be obvious to everyone. Read the details in V 26-31 (Bible notes)


Now that this has been said, I cannot talk about this subject without mentioning 'THE RAPTURE'. The rapture is an event that will take place before the coming of Christ to the earth.  It could even happen today! Although all the signs given in the Bible are for the tribulation, we know that the rapture will take place prior to that event. It is an event where Christ appears in the clouds to take His Church (believers in Christ that are alive or have died) home to heaven to celebrate the 'Marriage Supper of the Lamb' while the unbelievers go through the tribulation on the earth. My prayer is that all who read this, will consider the path they are on, and will TURN while there is time and breath in you.

Precious Pearls:
-"For the Lord Himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: Then we which are alive and remain shall be CAUGHT UP together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. Wherefore comfort one another with these words." 1 Thessalonians 4:16-18

-"Behold, I shew you a mystery (Paul says to the believers); We shall not all sleep (be dead), but we shall all be changed, in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead (believers) shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. For this corruptible must put on the incorruptible, and this mortal (must) put on immortality." 1 Corinthians 15:51-53

There is an urgency to your repentance dear reader! "For yet a little while, and He that shall come will come, and will not tarry!" Hebrews 10:37

"The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen." Revelation 22:21
Claudine

What Do You Think Of Christ?

This is the most important question you will ever answer!

In Matthew 22:41-45 The Lord Jesus asked the Pharisees and Sadducees a question.  "What do you think about the Messiah?  Whose son is He?"

The Pharisees knew that the Messiah would be a descendant of David, but they did not understand that He would be God himself.  Jesus quoted from Psalm 110:1 to show that the Messiah would be greater than David.  Hebrews 1:13 uses the same text as proof of Christ's deity. (Bible notes)

"If God became a man, then we would expect Him to:

1 - Have an utterly unique entrance into human history. "Therefore the Lord Himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a Son, and shall call His name Emmanuel." Isaiah 7:14

2 - Be without sin.

"And ye know that He was manifested to take away our sins; and in Him is no sin." 1 John 3:5

3 - Manifest His supernatural presence in the form of supernatural acts, that is, miracles.

Jesus performed many miracles before the public, and the recorded testimonies found in the gospels have the same validity for evidence as the experiences of beholding the events." (Ramm, PCE, 140)

4 - Live more perfectly than any human who has ever lived.

"Which of you convinces me of sin?" John 8:46

5 - Speak the greatest words ever spoken.

"Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away." Luke 21:33;

Even the Roman officer exclaimed, "No one ever spoke like this Man!" John 7:46

6 - Have a lasting and universal influence.

To be sure, the personality of Jesus Christ has made such an impact on humanity that even after two thousand years the impact has not worn off.

7 - Satisfy the spiritual hunger in humanity.

"Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled" Matthew 5:6

8 - Overcome humanity's most pervasive and feared enemy, death.

"... Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures; and that He was buried, and that He rose again the third day according to the Scriptures." 1 Corinthians 15:3-4

The resurrection of Christ is the seal of our resurrection. Because He arose, we shall arise!" (Romans 8:11), (Ramm, PCE, 185-86)

 "THE IMCOMPARABLE CHRIST!"

More than nineteen hundred years ago there was a Man born contrary to the laws of life. This Man lived in poverty and was reared in obscurity. He did not travel extensively. Only once did He cross the boundary of the country in which He lived; that was during His exile in childhood. 

He possessed neither wealth nor influence. His relatives were inconspicuous, and had neither training nor formal education. In infancy He startled a king; in childhood He puzzled doctors; in manhood He ruled the course of nature, walked upon the billows as if pavements, and hushed the sea to sleep. He healed the multitudes without medicine and made no charge for His services.

He never wrote a book, and yet all the libraries of the country could not hold the books that have been written about Him. He never wrote a song, and yet He has furnished the theme for more songs than all the song-writers combined.

He never founded a college, but all the schools put together cannot boast of having as many students. He never marshaled an army, nor drafted a soldier, nor fired a gun and yet no leader ever had more volunteers who have, under His orders, made more rebels stack arms and surrender without a shot fired.

He never practiced psychiatry, and yet He has healed more broken hearts than all the doctors far and near. Once each week the wheels of commerce cease their turning and multitudes wend their way to worshipping assemblies to pay homage and respect to Him.

The names of the past proud statesmen of Greece and Rome have come and gone. The names of the past scientists, philosophers, and theologians have come and gone; but the name of this Man abounds more and more. Though time has spread nineteen hundred years between the people of the generation and the scene of His crucifixion, yet He still lives. Herod could not destroy Him, and the grave could not hold Him.

He stands forth upon the highest pinnacle of heavenly glory, proclaimed of God, acknowledged by angels, adored by saints, and feared by devils, as the living, personal Christ, our Lord and Saviour. 

Author: Anonymous
(taken from Josh McDowell's book: The New Evidence That Demands a Verdict)

May I ask you now: What do you think of Christ? 

As for me, He is my Redeemer, my Friend, and altogether lovely!

Claudine

What Will Heaven Be Like?

'Where Jesus is tis heaven there!'

In every generation and culture, ideas of eternal life tend to be based on images and experiences of present life.  In Matthew 22:23-33 the Lord Jesus answered that these faulty ideas are caused by ignorance of God's Word. We must not make up our own ideas about eternity and heaven by thinking of it and God in human terms. (Bible Notes)

We should rather be concentrating more on our relationship with God than what heaven will be like. If you are saved (see Acts 16:30, 31; 1 Timothy 2:3-5 about this word 'saved'), you will find out and it will be far beyond your expectations. But if you would like to read a bit about it, there is Revelation chapter 21 and 22, which are the last two chapter of the Bible. One thing is very clear, THERE WILL BE NO SIN IN HEAVEN!

Something to remark is that the Bible speaks more about hell than about heaven! Oneself ought to search the scriptures diligently to find out which way he is heading! This is a very serious issue, for it is about the eternal destiny of your soul (for a road map to eternity based on the Bible, check out my website at: http://salvation4you.shutterfly.com/ ).

"It is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment"! Hebrew 9:27
According to this clear verse, we are judged right after our passing away and this determines the destiny of our souls (read John 3:36) for eternity. No amount of prayers, tears, masses, money ... will change that. Jesus paid for our ransom and we must receive His gift of forgiveness (Romans 6:23) while we are still living. There is only one way to total forgiveness and heaven (John 14:6).

"For by grace (undeserved kindness) you are saved through faith, and that's not from you; it is the gift of God, not of works lest anyone should boast." Ephesians 2:8-9

Eternity - time soon will end

Its fleeting moments pass away

Oh sinner say where wilt thou spend

Eternity's unchanging day!

Precious Pearl:
http://www.answersingenesis.org/articles/am/v9/n2/visits-to-heaven
I feel a visit to this site might be a very good thing to read

"These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that you may know that you have eternal life, and that you may believe on the name of the Son of God." 1 John 5:13

Claudine

Do You See What I See?

"For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved." Romans 10:13

In Matthew 20:29-33 we read of two blind men who, realising the Lord was passing by, wanted to receive their sight. So they cried: 'Lord, Son of David, have mercy on us.'

Even though they were physically-blind, they knew Jesus was the long-awaited Messiah.  Not like their religious leaders who witnessed Jesus' miracles, who were spiritually blind to His identity, refusing to open their eyes to the truth. But these blind men called Him 'Son of David', because the Jews knew that the Messiah would be a descendant of David (Isaiah 9:6,7, 11:1; Jeremiah 23:5,6).

In verse 31, we read of the crowd telling the two blind men to stop shouting and be quiet.  But they shouted all the more!  The Lord was in fact on his way to Jerusalem (21:1) where He would soon be crucified.  This was their last opportunity to be healed by Him. I'm glad they kept shouting for because of their faith in Him, the Lord stopped and showed compassion on them, and healed them.

Don't let the crowd (family, friends, co-workers...) stop you from coming to the Saviour of sinners. "This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners" 1 Timothy 1:15

Do you see what I see?  I see myself a sinner and I see Him my Saviour!

Precious Pearls:
- "I have come to judge the world. I have come to give sight to the blind and to show those who think they see that they are blind." John 9:39

-"Come unto Me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest." Matthew 11:28

-"Seek ye the Lord while he may be found, call ye upon Him while He is near." Isaiah 55:6

-"Jesus said unto him: I am the Way, The Truth, and The Life: no man comes to the Father but by Me." John 14:6

Give me a sight, O Saviour,
Of Thy wondrous love to me,
Of the love that brought Thee down to earth,
To die on Calvary

Oh, make me understand it,
Help me to take it in.
What it meant to Thee, the Holy One,
To bear away my sin.
GHB

A sinner saved by grace,

Claudine

"It Is Finished!" John 19:30

"Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us!" Titus 3:5

In Matthew 19:16-26, a rich young man comes to the Lord Jesus with this question: 'What good things must I do to have eternal life?'  The Lord not revealing His deity replied: "Why ask me about what is good, only God is good!". 

How can we think we can do something good to go to heaven, sinners like we are?  We were helpless to save ourselves, that is why the Lord had compassion on us, and came to save us, when he paid the full price for our sins on the cross of Calvary!
1- All have sinned (Romans 3:23)
2- We have ALL gone out of the way (Isaiah 53:6; Romans 3:12)
3- There is none good, no not one! (Romans 3:10

"But we are ALL as an unclean thing, and all our righteousness are as filthy rags" Isaiah 64:6
 This rich young man wanted to do something MORE!  Instead of adding another commandment to keep or good deed to perform, he needed the Saviour, by humbly submitting to the lordship of Christ.

Then, in Matthew 19:24 we read about the Lord stating: It is impossible for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, and it is also impossible for a rich man (any sinner) to gain or enter heaven by his own merit.  Humanly speaking, it is impossible but with God ALL things are possible, Jesus then added.  ALL people, even the rich of course, can enter heaven if God brings them in. The Just died for the unjust so he can bring us to God, that's how it is possible for God (1Peter 3:8)! Faith in Christ, not in self or riches will bring you in! "Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us!" Titus 3:5

Wont you come to the Saviour of sinners by humbly submitting to the lordship of Christ.
He will save you, he will save you NOW!

Precious Pearls:
"ALL we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us ALL."  Isaiah 53:6
"Therefore by the deeds of the law (commandments) there shall no flesh be justified in his sight.." Romans 3:20
"Being justified FREELY by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus.." Romans 3:24
-"For Christ also has once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God,.." 1 Peter 3:18
-"For by grace are you saved through faith, and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God: not of works, lest any man should boast!" Ephesians 2:8:9
-"The blood of Jesus Christ, God's Son cleanses us from all sin" 1 John 1:7
-Not by prayers, money or tears (no purgatory), no need of it ... it is Christ's work that saves and only Christ's work!


Finished was the work when the Saviour died!

By His Marvelous Grace,
Claudine

The Lord Quotes Scriptures!

"Haven't you read the Scriptures? Jesus said in ..." Matthew 19:4

In Matthew 19:3-6 The Lord Jesus quotes Genesis 1:27, and 2:24 referring to them as Scriptures. He often quoted the Old Testament Scriptures by declaring: 'As it is written..."

Jesus Christ not only assumed the authority of the Bible existing in His day (the Old Testament); He taught it, going so far as to say that the Scriptures are entirely without error and eternal, being the Word of God. If the Scriptures are the Word of God, as Jesus taught, they must for this reason alone be entirely trustworthy, for God is a God of truth (Josh McDowell).  God can preserve His Word,  has preserved it, and will preserve it as He promised!  "But the word of the Lord endures for ever.  And this is the word which by the gospel is preached unto you." 1 Peter 1:25

The prophets spoke of Christ (Hebrews 1:1); the Apostles confirmed about Christ (Hebrews 2:3).

"ALL SCRIPTURE IS GIVEN BY INSPIRATION OF GOD, AND IS PROFITABLE FOR DOCTRINE, FOR REPROOF, FOR CORRECTION, FOR INSTRUCTION IN RIGHTEOUSNESS." 2 TIMOTHY 3:16

Do not err, not knowing the Scripture! (Matt 22:29)  This year, take on this new resolution! Ask God, the author of the Bible, to help you understand it and know what He says to you!  He has written it for you, you know!  It is His letter to you!

Precious Pearls:
- "Long ago God spoke many times and many ways to our ancestors through the prophets.  But now in these final days, He has spoken to us through His Son." Hebrews 1:1-2.
  -"How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation; which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed unto us by them that heard him." Hebrews 2:3
-"...showing by the Scriptures that Jesus was Christ." Acts 18:28
-"Heaven and earth shall pass away, but My Words shall not pass away." Matthew 24:35
-"...the Scripture cannot be broken." John 10:35
-"Thy Word is truth" John 17:17

"Your Word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path." Psalm 119:105
He has led me into the way everlasting!
Claudine