Luke 15 - Christ Defends His Ministry

 

Luke 15 – Christ Defends His Ministry

 

Christ explained that they were sheep that had gone astray and needed a shepherd to bring them home. They were lost coins, stamped with the image of God, needing to get back into circulation again. They were disobedient sons who were wasting their inheritance and needed to come home to the Father.

 

Sheep are foolish animals and naturally go astray, but the spiritual shepherds in Israel had not ministered to them (Jer. 23; Ezek. 34). The woman lost the coin because of carelessness, and the son was lost because of his willfulness. The father did not search for the boy but let him learn his lessons the hard way and discover how good it was back home. (Rom. 2:4)

 

Jesus always saw the potential in people. The sheep could be brought back to the flock and bring joy to the shepherd, the coin could be found; and the son could return home and lovingly serve his father. There is hope for every sinner because Jesus welcomes everyone.

 

Lost describes the person’s condition without the Savior. Jesus seeks the lost and the result is joy. Whenever we lose something and find it, there is always joy.

 

God’s grace is the Son of Man coming to seek and to save that which was lost. Jesus wanted the Pharisees to understand that His whole purpose in coming to earth was the very thing that prompted their accusations of Him – reaching out with grace to sinners.

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible. Nelson’s Quick Reference Study Bible, J. Vernon McGee Through the Bible.

Luke 14 Exploiting or inviting?

 

Luke 14– Exploiting or inviting?

 

When we eat together, it should be a time of loving fellowship and joyful gratitude to God; but the Pharisees turned tables into traps and exploited people. They used a man with a handicapping condition in trying to catch Jesus; they went to feasts only to receive honors; and they invited to their feasts only people who would return the favor. Hospitality is ministry only if our motive is to help others and glorify God. Jesus reinforced the definition of unconditional love; giving to people who have absolutely no ability to pay back what is owed (James 2:1).

 

Salvation is a feast, not a funeral; and God wants His house filled. As His servants, we have the privilege to tell the world, “Come, for all things are now ready!” Even if some reject the invitation, keep sharing it. Those who think they are the least worthy are the ones He wants to have at His feast. We should ask ourselves, “Am I the sort of person God will welcome into His kingdom?”

 

Is it easy to be part of the crowd and follow a popular Jesus, but that is not true discipleship. He calls you away from the crowd to take up your cross and follow Him. When it comes to winning the lost, God wants His house filled; but when it comes to discipleship, Christ thins out the ranks and wants only those who will die to self and live for Him.

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible.

 

Luke 13 Why Does God Keep Me Alive?

 

Luke 13 – Why does God Keep Me Alive?

 

How easy it is to ask questions about others’ tragedies and fail to learn the lessons they teach! The big question is not “Why do people die in tragic and seemingly meaningless ways?” but “Why does God keep me alive?” Am I worth it? Am I bearing fruit or taking up space? The precariousness of life in a fallen world should prompt everyone to take stock of their spiritual condition.

 

The ruler of the synagogue was a hypocrite because he treated animals better than he treated people. Suppose the woman did come to the synagogue on another day. Could he have healed her? Of course not! We wonder how many needy people come to church meeting looking for love and help and go away disappointed.

 

God’s kingdom is at work in the world, but many people fail to take advantage of their opportunities. Instead of entering the kingdom, some people only ask questions about it. Salvation is not a theory to discuss; it is a miracle to experience. No wonder Jesus wept when He saw sinners passing by their opportunities to be saved! Do not wait for opportunities to come; they are already here. Jesus is the way to salvation, and no other way exists.

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible.  J. Vernon McGee Through the Bible

 

Luke 12 - A Fearful Heart

 

Luke 12 – A Fearful Heart

 

When you fear people, you start to hide things, and this leads to hypocrisy. You fail to confess Christ openly and depend on the Holy Spirit, and this silences your witness. When you fear God alone, you need fear no one else; and you can boldly witness for Christ. You are important to God and precious in His sight, so never fear what people can say or do.

 

A greedy heart. Imagine being so greedy that you would interrupt a sermon to ask for help to get more money! The weeds were certainly growing in that man’s heart (Matt. 13:22). We all need a certain amount of money to live, but money is not a guarantee of security. If anything, it creates false confidence that leads to foolishness.

 

A divided heart. Worry means to be pulled apart, and that is what worry does to you. If your heart is centered on Christ and trusting wholly in Him, you will have a united heart that fears God alone (Ps. 86:11).  If your treasures are heavenly, you need not worry; no enemy can take them!

 

A cold heart. We are God’s servants, and He expects us to be faithfully doing our work when Jesus Christ returns. But when we stop looking for His coming, loving it (2 Tim 4:8), and longing for it (Rev. 22:20), our hearts get cold, and we get worldly. The Lord will deal with careless servants when He returns, so we had better be ready.

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

J. Vernon McGee Commentary and Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah.

Luke 11 - Prayer

 

Luke 11 – Prayer

If Jesus, John the Baptist, and the Twelve apostles all needed to pray, how much more do we need to pray! We must put God’s concerns first, because prayer is based on sonship, not friendship. God is a loving Father, not a grouchy neighbor; He gives us what we need. He neither slumbers nor sleeps; and He doesn’t become irritated when we ask for help (James 1:5). The Lord’s prayer provides a pattern for all to follow honor God, submit to His will, depend on Him to meet needs and forgive sins, and ask for strength to forgive others and to resist the evil one.   

 

More dangerous than open hostility is attempted neutrality, for an empty life is an opportunity for satan to move in and take over. The only sign we need is the “sign of Jonah,” our Lord’s resurrection from the dead (Acts 2:22-36). Jesus has won the victory over the prince of darkness. Obey satan and you let in darkness rather than light, and soon you will not be able to distinguish between them (Matt. 6:22-23).

 

Jesus was a guest in the home, but He did not flatter His host or the other guests by avoiding the truth. He exposed their hypocrisy and condemned them for their sins (Matt. 23). They defiled people, burdened them, and locked the door on them, all the while posing as holy men of God. Instead of taking the opportunity of repenting and being forgiven, they opposed Jesus and attacked Him. The lawyers made the people’s lives far more difficult. In doing so, they took a divine gift meant to point people to God and used it instead to trample their spirits. (Matt. 23:4).

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible.

J, Vernon McGee Through the Bible

Luke 10 - What makes You Serve?

 

Luke 10 – What Makes You Serve?

 

Jesus was not limited to the twelve; seventy others obeyed Him and helped to reap the harvest. But the laborers are still few because the ministry is difficult and dangerous, but it is also rewarding.

 

What makes you rejoice? When the disciples rejoiced over their successful ministry, Jesus told them to rejoice because they were citizens of heaven. After all, their work might not always be successful; but their salvation would never change. Jesus rejoiced because the Father’s will was being accomplished in their lives.

 

What makes you pause? It is not difficult to discuss neighborliness in the abstract, but it costs something to be a real neighbor. We must pause to help when we see injustice and hurt, or like the priest and the Levite, do you look for an escape? You are never more Christlike than when you feel another’s hurt and seek to help.

 

What makes you listen? Take time to sit at the feet of Jesus and hear His Word. It is important to serve the Lord and serve others, but it is even more important to delight your Lord by spending time with Him. Don’t be so busy serving Him that you have no time to love Him and listen to Him?

 

Faithful to my Lord’s commands,

I still would choose the better part.

Serve with careful Martha’s hands,

And loving Mary’s heart.  Charles Wesley.

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.      J. Vernon McGee Through the Bible

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible.

Luke 9 - Christ Equips Us.

 

Luke 9 – Christ Equips Us.

 

He will never send us out to do a task without first giving us what we need. We are prone to trust what we have, but we should trust in Him alone. If we are in His will, we will have His supply. Jesus commissioned His disciples to duplicate what He had done. To make this possible, He equipped them with both the power to do the supernatural and the authority to do His will.

 

Christ enables us. How could twelve men feed five thousand people? Only through the enabling of the Lord, for He did the miracle: they only distributed the blessing. Christ is looking for clean empty hands that He can fill. Jesus had been teaching His disciples to depend on the power and resources of God, and now He gave them a task they simply could not complete on their own.

 

Christ encourages us. If you confess Christ as Son of God and Savior, and take up your cross and follow Him, He will reveal to you His kingdom and His glory. When you experience the glory of God, the demands of discipleship become blessings that carry you along in joyful obedience. Followers of Christ must not only give up their own agenda but die to it.

 

Christ endures us. What strange words from the lips of Jesus: “How long shall I be with you and bear with you?” He must bear with our unbelief and failure, our lack of love, and our lack of dedication. Is Jesus blessing you, or bearing with you? Jesus always speaks exactly what is needed to move His followers toward greater godliness, even if it stings.

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better. If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary. J. Vernon McGee Through the Bible. Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible.                      

 

Luke 8 - Why Welcome Him?

 

Luke 8 – Why Welcome Him?

 

Jesus was not impressed by the crowds that followed Him, for He knew the spiritual condition of their hearts. The parable of the Sower helps examine our hearts to see how we respond to the Word. But it is not enough to hear the Word; we must also obey it and trust it when the time of testing comes. Many people who heard Jesus, even those who listened to Him gladly, did not give much thought to the meaning of His teaching and made even less effort to live by it.

 

The healing of the Gadarene demoniacs (Matt. 8:28) should have endeared Jesus to the people, but the citizens were concerned more about pigs and money than about people and mercy. The man who begged to go with Jesus was the sanest one of all! This man spread the word, proclaiming throughout the whole city what great things Jesus had done for him.

 

A multitude welcoming was on the other side of the Sea of Galilee, near Capernaum. They welcomed Him, probably not because of their love for Him, but because they had seen many of His miracles and wanted Him to meet their needs. If Jesus were coming today, would you welcome Him? Why?

 

The people wanted to get next to Jesus so He could help them; but though they thronged Him, they did not have the touch of faith that the poor sick woman had. Being in the crowd is no assurance of receiving the blessing.  Sometimes God must get you away from the crowd before He can meet the need. Jesus forced this woman out into the open, not to ridicule or rebuke her but to set her free completely.

 

 Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better. If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary. J. Vernon McGee Through the Bible. Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible.

 

Luke 7 - "I Am Not Worthy"

 

Luke 7 – “I Am Not Worthy”

 

“I am not worthy” was the centurion’s confession of humility; and his confession of faith was, “Say the word!” It is great faith when we trust Christ to work just by speaking the Word. We can never deserve His blessings, but we can ask for them in faith. The Roman centurion, who would naturally be hated as an officer of the occupying force, displayed more faith in Christ than many Jews.

 

The woman did not expect it. Nobody knew that Jesus would arrive and break up the funeral! Never despair because your Lord may surprise you at the last minute and do the impossible for you.  Jesus gave sight to many blind people, a miracle that no Old Testament prophet had ever performed. This is considered a signature sign of the Messiah. (Isa. 29:18; 35:5,6).

 

 

When the Lord is not doing what you expect Him to do, tell Him about it and listen to His word. You may feel that your ministry has failed, but you are not the judge. Let Jesus have the final word. Jesus continually broke the norms and shocked the establishment, especially when he let the known prostitute touch his feet. God still breaks the norm today.

 

The sinful woman trusted Christ and He saved her; now she wanted to express her love to Him. True faith cannot be hidden, and true faith shows itself in love and worship. Simon the Pharisee was blind; he could not see himself, the Lord, or the woman. He did not know the debt he owed!. Jesus contrasted the woman’s loving actions with Simon’s lack of them. Simon had not accepted His message. Instead of inviting Him into his heart, he invited Him to dinner. Many people still have that sort of superficial relationship with Jesus. They are social believers, they would like Him as a dinner companion, but they do not want Him any closer, certainly not as Savior.

 

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible. J. Vernon McGee Through the Bible

 

Luke 6 - True Liberty

 

Luke 6 – True Liberty

 

People who live only by “Is it lawful?” cannot understand our Lord’s principle, “Is it loving?” The scribes and Pharisees had transformed the Sabbath from a day of blessing into a day of bondage, and Jesus deliberately healed on the Sabbath so He could challenge them. It is always right to do good and to meet human need (Mic. 6:8), for love fulfills the law (Rom. 13:8-10).

 

In His ordination sermon for the apostles, Jesus emphasized the true spiritual values of life in contrast to the false values of the Pharisees (Matt. 23). Comfortable living is not always Christian living.

 

God’s people have their enemies, even as Jesus did; and we must be Christlike in the way we treat them. We must be giving and forgiving; and we must pray for them, not that God would destroy them but that He would change them. The best way to conquer an enemy is to make him a friend. Keep your heart right with God and the Lord will produce the good fruit in your life.

 

True obedience is not just words but deeds, and it involves hearing the Word and doing it (I Thess. 2:13). Judas knew the vocabulary, but he did not do the will of God; and when the storm came, his house fell.

 

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary. J Vernon McGee Thru the Bible

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible.

 

Luke 5 - Jesus Responds

 

Luke 5- Jesus Responds

 

If you had fished all night and caught nothing, would you be getting ready to go out fishing again? One reason Jesus called several fishermen to be His disciples was that they never quit! Peter may have thought he knew more about fishing than Jesus did, but he did what Jesus commanded; and the Lord honored his obedient faith. No failure is final if you come to the Lord for a new start. When God asks His followers to do something that makes no sense, they are on the verge of experiencing Him in powerful and awe-inspiring ways, far more so than if they relied solely on their own strength and ability. (Eph. 3:20). The more time we spend with the Master, the more like Him we will become.

 

Lepers were not to approach people; but the man came to Jesus in desperation, and Jesus healed him. The offering Jesus referred to is described in Leviticus 14 and picture the salvation of the Lord.

 

The crowds sought Him, but Jesus withdrew to pray and commune with the Father. He did not allow popularity to detour Him from the Father’s will. If Jesus needed times of solitude and prayer, how much more do His followers!

 

He forgave the paralytic, Matthew the publican, and Matthew’s friends who trusted Him because He is a “friend of sinners” (Matthew 11:19). He could not forgive the scribes and Pharisees because they would not admit they were sick and in need of new clothes! They refused to grasp that Jesus was God in the flesh, with both the authority and the power to forgive sin. As the Great Physician, He came to heal the spiritually sick. Pharisees do not believe they are sick, like the scribes and Pharisees, do not seek the physicians care and therefore cannot be healed.

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible, J. Vernon McGee Through the Bible

 

Luke 4 - The Conqueror

 

Luke 4 – The Conqueror

 

You can be filled with the Spirit and obedient to God’s will and still experience temptations and trials. Because He faced the enemy and conquered, Jesus can identify with you in your temptations and can help you win the victory (Heb. 2:17-18). It is not a sin to be tempted, for Jesus was tempted; but it is a sin to yield. Satan’s promise is, “all will be yours”, but in Jesus Christ, you already have all things (I Cor. 3:21-23), and satan can give you nothing. Satan does not tempt God’s people indiscriminately, He looks for the opportune time, occasions when the children of God are weakened and prone to giving in. Wise believers learn to recognize the kinds of situations that make them more susceptible to temptation (Eph. 4:26, 27).

 

The Spirit not only gives us victory, but He leads us and empowers us for service. The people in the synagogue wanted a comforting sermon, not a convicting sermon. When Jesus mentioned God’s grace to the Gentiles, the people became angry and threw Him out! They forfeited His blessings because they rejected His word. The people who knew Jesus only as Joseph’s son found it difficult to believe that He was the Savior since they had known Him as a child and knew His earthly family.

 

Jesus fulfilled His commission by bringing healing and deliverance to the poor and needy by the authority of His word. Had He not overcome the devil privately, Jesus could not have defeated Him publicly. While the preaching of the Word was His major ministry, Jesus had compassion on the sick and healed them. We may not have the power to heal, but we can comfort and assist those who are needy; and we can do it in Jesus’ name (Matt. 25:34-40).

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com. Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible. J. Vernon McGee Through the Bible.

 

Luke 2 & 3 Christ Born of Mary

 

Luke 2 – Christ Born of Mary

 

Christ’s birth affected Ceasar’s politics, the ministry of the angels, and the activities of common men. In that day, shepherds were looked upon with disdain; but God singled them out to be the first human messengers of Messiah’s birth. His coming touched worshipers and even scholars. When Jesus was born in Bethlehem, deity invaded humanity, eternity invaded time, and royalty invaded poverty (John 1:1-4).

 

The angels sang about Him, a song of praise, peace, and purpose, and He is still the theme of the greatest music. Luke wrote about Him and He is still the subject of the greatest literature. The shepherds hastened to behold Him, and He is still at the center of the greatest art. Teachers listened to Him and marveled, and He is still the focal point for all truth and wisdom.

 

In His development, Jesus was perfectly balanced; intellectually, physically, spiritually, and socially; and He is still the greatest example for childhood and youth.

 

He alone is worthy of our worship! Oh, come! Let us adore Him!    

 

Luke 3- God’s Message                                   

 

God’ message came to John the Baptist, the greatest of God’s prophets. John’s ministry was foretold by the prophet Isaiah (Isa. 40:3-5). John was a prophet who was the subject of prophecy.

 

He was privileged to prepare the nation for the Messiah and then present Him to them. John preached against sin and told the people to repent. He gave specific instructions to his converts on how to put their faith into practice. He was inspecting fruit, getting to the root of sin, and warning about wrath to come.

 

The Son of God is baptized, the Spirit lights upon Him like a dove; and the Father speaks His approval from heaven. The Holy Trinity is always involved in your salvation (Eph. 1:1-14).

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans for You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com. Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible. Through the Bible by J. Vernon McGee.

Luke 1 - Serving, Submitting and Singing

 

Luke 1– Serving, Submitting and Singing

 

His disappointment at not having a son did not keep Zacharias from serving the Lord. Be faithful; you never know when God’s angel may arrive. Zacharias had the faith to keep on praying; but when the answer came, he did not have the faith to accept it. He looked at his limitations rather than God’s great power.  Unbelief produces silence (Ps. 116:10). Faith opens your mouth in praise to God. God still answers prayer, but always in His timing, not necessarily in ours.

 

What an honor to be chosen to be the mother of the Messiah! Mary humbly submitted to the Lord because she had faith that He would keep His promise. Her decision would bring her sorrow and suffering but she willingly yielded to it. She was “blessed among women” because of the grace of God given to her. All who trust Christ as their Savior are highly graced by the Lord. (Eph. 1:6). Mary’s response is one that all believers should emulate.

 

A pregnant Jewish girl from Nazareth, engaged to marry a poor carpenter, wht did Mary have to sing about?  She sang about the Lord, what He did for her, for all who fear Him, and for His people Israel. God gives power to the weak, thrones to the lowly, and food to the hungry; but the strong, the rich, and the mighty go away empty. Mary was not divine, nor did she believe herself to be. She was simply divinely blessed.

 

Zecharias praised God for what He would do for His people, Israel. It was the dawning of a new day because the Messiah was about to be born. God keeps His promises and is faithful to His covenants. Zecharias’ hymn of praise to God emphasized the national benefits of God’s gifts. God’s blessings are not for individuals to keep to themselves.

 

 Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better. If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com. J. Vernon McGee Thru the Bible. Nelson’s Quick Reference. Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible.

 

Mark 15 - Defend Yourself! Mark 16 - He Arose!

 

Mark 15 – Defend Yourself!

 

When you face the unjust assaults of an evil world, remember Jesus. The world says, “Defend yourself!” but Jesus was silent. The world says “pamper yourself! But Jesus refused the drink. The world says, “save yourself! But Jesus remained on the cross and finished the work the Father gave Him to do.

 

The Chief priests were guilty of envy, and Pilate was guilty of compromise. Their sins led to the release of an evil man, the embarrassment of an innocent man, and the death of a good Man; yet envy and compromise are not looked upon as terrible sins today. Should they be?

 

Man was doing his worst, but God was doing His best and fulfilling His Word: “But where sin abounded, grace abounded much more” (Rom. 5:20). And He did it for you and me!

 

Mark 16 – He Arose

 

Because they forgot His resurrection promises, the women were in sorrow and worrying about the future: “Who will rollaway the stone?” When they learned that Jesus was alive their first response was fear and not faith; but then they became the first heralds of the resurrection. The angel had a special word for Peter who was no doubt still grieving his sins. The living Christ gives you something to look forward to. He goes before you!

 

All those Jesus appeared to became witnesses of His resurrection (Acts 1:22), just as we should be today (Rom. 6:4; Phil. 3:10).

 

The Servant is the Sovereign at the Father’s right hand! He humbled Himself in obedience, and God exalted Him in glory (Phil 2:5-11). But He is not idle, for He is working with His people as they take the gospel to every nation.

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible.

J. Vernon McGee Through the Bible.

 

Mark 14 - Preparation

 

Mark 14 – Preparation

 

Judas solved the chief priests’ problem by offering to lead them to Jesus. But how do you conveniently betray the Son of God? It is a very costly endeavor in every way.

 

Mary’s act of worship brought joy to the heart of Jesus and malice to the heart of Judas, who wanted the money she had spent (John 12:6). Other women came to anoint Him after His burial, but Mary did it when He could be encouraged by her love.

 

It meant much to Jesus to spend those hours with His disciples. He loved them (John 13:1), and their presence encouraged Him. He took the cup and the bread of Passover and transformed them into memorials of His own blood and body, for He wanted the disciples to remember Him.

 

The good fellowship in the Upper Room made the twelve forget the danger outside, so Jesus gave them warning. Peter was not the only one who boasted and felt self-confident: “And they all said likewise”. Heed His warnings; He knows what is coming.

 

Jesus’ prayers reveal the conflict of His holy soul as He faced bearing the sins of the world on the cross.  When you have a Gethsemane experience, pray what He prayed: “Not what I will, but what you will”.  Peter had a sword, but Jesus took a cup. You need not fear the cup the Father has prepared for you. Jesus could submit to the abuse of men because He had already submitted to the will of God.

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible. Nelson’s Quick Reference Study Bible, J. Vernon McGee Through the Bible.

 

Mark 13 - Take Heed

 

Mark 13– Take Heed

 

The Olivet Discourse was written with gentile readers in mind. If we are to be ready and faithful in these last days, we must heed the admonitions of Jesus.

 

Political and geological disruption will give false prophets and false Christ’s great opportunity to deceive people. Persecution against God’s people will either strengthen or weaken us. Many individuals will claim to be the Promised One or Savior, all of them will be frauds, but they will deceive many.

 

The Word of God is the only dependable light in this dark world (2 Pet. 1:19). Jesus has told us beforehand what to expect and what to avoid, and we must heed His words. His Word is dependable and durable, so trust it.

 

During the tribulations period, various signs will signal Christ’s return to earth; but believers today are looking for the Savior and not for signs. “Keep alert and keep praying!” is His admonition. “Do the work I have given you to do.” You want to be found faithful when He comes, and He could come today. Jesus admonished His followers to endure to the end, amid all the persecution, knowing that because He would ultimately triumph, they will too, if only they don’t give up.

 

Just as Summer arrives in Israel soon after the fig tree starts to blossom, so Jesus will return at the very end of the Great tribulation, In power and glory to set up His kingdom, His 1,000 year reign on earth. The Lord did not say these things to prompt speculation on when He might return, The Christian’s responsibility is to remain watchful, pure, and ready (I Thess. 5:6; 2 Pet. 1:10,11).

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible.

Mark 12 - The Passover

 

Mark 12 – The Passover

 

Each family chose its Passover lamb on the tenth day of the month and carefully examined it until the fourteenth day to be sure it had no defects (Exod. 12:1-6). During His last week of public ministry, God’s Lamb (John 1:29) was examined in various ways, and He passed every test. No guile was found in His mouth. (Isa. 53:9).

 

In His replies, Jesus revealed to them who He was; yet they would not accept the truth. He is the Son sent by the father and the Stone rejected by the builders (Psa. 118:22-23). His enemies were so intent on destroying only themselves. The religious leaders immediately grasped that Jesus had spoken the parable against them. Ordinarily the Pharisees, Sadducees, and Herodians were antagonistic against each other, here they start working together against their common enemy, Jesus.

 

All political questions and hypothetical doctrinal questions are chaff compared to the most important question of all: Is Jesus Christ your Lord and do you love Him?

Man bears God’s image, therefor the believer’s life belongs to God.

 

Love for God should naturally issue in love for other human beings, who are made in His image (Rom. 13:9).

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible.  J. Vernon McGee Through the Bible

 

Mark 11- Fulfilling Prophecy

 

Mark 11 - Fulfilling Prophecy

 

The donkey was a royal animal, and the event was a coronation celebration (I Kings 1:32-40). It was the only time our Lord permitted a public demonstration in His honor, and He did it to fulfill prophecy (Zech. 9:9) and turn the people’s hearts back to the Word of God. They did not listen. In calling Jesus the “one who comes” the crowd essentially calls Him the Messiah. Unfortunately, they meant in on their terms, not His.

 

The fig tree pictures Israel, taking up space but not producing fruit (Luke 13:6-9). When we stop bearing fruit, the problem always starts with the roots (Matt 3:10). Jesus reminds us that we must have faith and forgiveness when we pray, or God will not answer.

 

The Psalmist proclaimed, “Holiness adorns Your house” (Ps. 35:5). But unholiness made the temple a place for thieves to hide! The leaders were not praying; they were preying and using religion only to make money. Jesus cleansed the temple, in fulfillment of Malachi 3:1-3.

 

The leaders had not been honest with John the Baptist, and now they refused to be honest with Jesus. When we obey, God teaches us more (John 7:17); if we disobey, we close the door on God’s truth. The religious leaders believed they had all the authority and they feared Jesus would take it from them. They were referring to the cleansing of the temple.

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

J. Vernon McGee Commentary and Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah.

 

Mark 10 - How Far Can I Go?

 

Mark 10 – How far can I go?

 

The rabbis didn’t agree on their interpretation of the divorce law (Deut. 24:1-4), one school being lenient and the other strict. When you live “by permission,” you are tempted to follow those who tell you what you want to hear. Our Lord led the Pharisees back to God’s original plan and interpreted it for them. In marriage, God brings a man and a woman together, and human beings should not dissolve what God has united (I Cor. 6:16; Eph. 5:31). Divorce is a concession to the reality of sin- the hardness of heart in the world, not part of God’s ideal for marriage.

 

How much can I keep? The rich man was looking for a bargain, the best of both worlds; but he was doomed to failure. Perhaps he was wondering whether in resurrected reality he would be able to keep his property holdings. Calculation and crucifixion do not agree. At Calvary, there was no bargaining, just giving His all. Salvation is about what God does for sinners rather than what they do for God. Had the rich young ruler looked beyond his great possessions, he would have seen the real possession of those who believe: eternal life.

 

How much will we get?  Jesus promises to reward all who faithfully follow Him, but He warns against having rewards as your only motive for service. If you are His disciple, expect a cross, a cup, and a baptism, for the servant is not greater than His Lord. The important question is, “How much can we give? Salvation is all grace, all God.

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible.

J, Vernon McGee Through the Bible

Mark 9 - Glory out of Suffering

 

Mark 9 – Glory out of Suffering

 

What happened on the Mount of Transfiguration was confirmation of the testimony Peter gave. But it was also a revelation of the glory of the Cross (Gal. 6:14). First the suffering, then the glory. Satan offers you glory without suffering (Matt. 4:8-10) but it ends up suffering without glory. Transfigured means to “change into another form”. It’s also used to describe the believer’s transformation into the image of Christ (Rom 12:2; 2 or. 3:18).

 

Their failure to deliver the boy grieved the Lord, gave support to the enemy, and robbed God of glory. The nine disciples who were left behind had neglected their spiritual disciplines and lost their power. When you find yourself defeated, turn to Him for victory and discover where you went wrong. Complacency is the enemy of spiritual power, and prayer is the discipline that reminds believers of their dependency.

 

Mark’s gospel emphasizes the importance of service. Do not aim for human greatness; aim to be more like Jesus Christ. Do not measure yourself by other servants; measure yourself by Him. Jesus declared that anyone working in His name, and who God works through, should be considered a partner, not a threat. Jesus expects unity (I Cor. 1:10-17).

 

If you pamper sin in your life, you will lose your “salty” character and not be able to affect others for Christ. Deal drastically with sin as a surgeon does with a cancerous tumor. You gain by losing. Jesus implores us to eliminate the impurity of selfishness and exhibit the purity of self-sacrifice for the benefit of others.

 

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.      J. Vernon McGee Through the Bible

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible.

 

 

Mark 8 - Defective

 

Mark 8– Defective

 

The disciples didn’t know what to do with the hungry crowd, yet they had seen Jesus feed the five thousand. They apparently “soon forgot His works; they did not wait for His counsel” (Psalm 106:13). Each work that He does should encourage you to trust Hm to help you solve the next problem. Keep a long memory of His mercies and a short one of your failures. Don’t have defective faith. While the disciples failed to respond with appropriate belief, the Gentiles received the full benefits of Jesus’ power.

 

The disciples did not perceive what He meant by the leaven. The blindness of the Pharisees does not surprise us, but why were His followers so blind? Like Israel of old, the disciples saw His acts but did not understand His ways (Psalms 103:7). Ask God to give you spiritual insight. Don’t have defective understanding. The disciples had yet to understand that the kingdom of God would not be driven by the “my tribe first” mentality of the Pharisees or the show of brute force like Herod but by meekness and humility.

 

This is the only healing miracle recorded that took place in stages. Bethsaida was under judgment (Matt. 11:21-24), so Jesus took the man out of there and told him not to go back. Be careful where you send people whose eyes have been opened to Jesus and His mercy.  Don’ have defective sight. Just as the blind man’s sight came in stages, so too the disciples’ spiritual sight would come in stages, especially their understanding of Jesus as the Son of God, the Messiah.

 

One minute Peter is inspired from heaven (Matt. 16:17); and the next minute, his tongue is ignited from hell; (James 3:6). Peter saw only shame in the Cross, but Jesus saw glory. Peter saw defeat, but Jesus saw great victory. Never be ashamed to be His disciple and bear your cross, for Jesus bore it first. Don’t have defective devotion. In essence, Peter called Jesus out to talk Him out of going to the cross. Peter’s reasoning was not simply mistaken, it was downright demonic.

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better. If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary. J. Vernon McGee Through the Bible. Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible.

Mark 7 - Defilement Comes from Within

 

Mark 7 – Defilement Comes from Within

 

Unless we are very careful, religious rituals can create serious problems. They may be given as much authority as God’s Word and even replace God’s Word. They may give a false confidence that what you do on the outside will somehow change the inside. But the heart must be changed, and external rituals cannot do that. The heart can be purified only by faith (Acts 15:9).

 

Jesus healed both the centurion’s servant (Matt. 8:1-13) and this woman’s demonized daughter from a distance. Both were Gentiles, and the Gentiles were “as a distance” spiritually; but Jesus would erase that distance at the cross (Eph. 2:11-22). As you pray for those far from you, or far from the Lord, remember that He can send His Word and do mighty works (Ps. 107:20). God’s offer of salvation extends to the whole world, regardless of ethnicity or nationality.

 

The miracles of healing this deaf man and healing a blind man are recorded only by Mark. Both were in gentile territory, which would interest his Roman readers; both were performed away from the crowd; and both were performed despite difficulty. The Servant can work at a distance or when we bring people to Him, and He does not fail.

 

 Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better. If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary. J. Vernon McGee Through the Bible. Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible.

Mark 6 - Limiting Jesus

 

Mark 6 – Limiting Jesus

His neighbors were amazed at what Jesus said and did, but Jesus was amazed at their unbelief that would not let Him do more: “According to your faith let it be to you” (Matt. 9:29). He healed a few sick people in Nazareth but did prompt Him to limit His ministry. If we do not have faith to believe in God’s power, it will not be long before we will cease to see God’s power.  Ask God to strengthen your faith so that you can glorify Him (Rom. 4:20-21). Our Lord’s response to their unbelief was to send out His disciples to minister. Herod silenced one voice, but he could not silence the Word of God (Col. 4:2-4).

 

God’s servants become weary as they work (John 4:6) and must care for the body. Jesus instructed His disciples to come aside and rest awhile. But when you have a compassionate heart, you will not have an idle hand. Our Lord interrupted His vacation to meet the needs of the people. Despite His own weariness, Jesus ministered to the needy crowds because He saw them as sheep not having a shepherd. Jesus’ compassion to the multitudes is expressed in His staying to teach them.  He need not interrupt anything today, because caring for us is His constant ministry (Heb &:25).

 

After such a demanding time of ministry, Jesus had to go apart to pray. But once again, He was interrupted, this time by the plight of His disciples amid the sea. And it was the disciples who were amazed! Jesus intercedes for you and knows your situation. He will come to you, care for you, and lead you into peace. His presence brings His people peace in any storm (Isa. 41:10).

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible. J. Vernon McGee Through the Bible

 

Mark 5 - The Servant Comes to Us.

 

Mark 5 – The Servant Comes to Us.

 

Jesus went through a storm to get to two demoniacs who needed his help. (Matt. 8:28). The demons begged not to be sent to the pit, the citizens begged Jesus to leave, and one healed man begged to go with Jesus. The citizens were more concerned with financial profit than with spiritual benefit. Satan and his forces are bent on destroying the good creation of God. If the demons had remained in the man they surely would have destroyed him.

 

All kinds of people came to the feet of Jesus. A well-known synagogue leader and an anonymous sick woman could find help there. Perhaps the woman’s faith was a bit superstitious, but the Lord still honored it. If you cannot grasp His hand, touch the hem of His garment. The first step of faith, no matter how weak will lead to greater blessings! You can come to the Servant. When Jesus heals, he makes the person well – complete or whole. The woman’s healing led her to salvation.

 

No situation is so desperate that Jesus cannot work. Disease, delays, and even death are under His control Jesus goes with you to the place of disappointment and sorrow and meets your needs. No matter how depressing your situation may appear. “Do not be afraid; only believe”. The Servant is working for you. He will go with you. Because of Jesus, death never has the last word.

 

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary. J Vernon McGee Thru the Bible

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible.

 

Mark 4 - Receiving God's Word

 

Mark 4- Receiving God’s Word

 

Even when we read the Bible, we should hear the voice of God speaking to our hearts. It must be personal. Never treat the Bible like any other book (I Thess. 2:13). Jesus warns us to take heed that we hear what we hear, and how we hear (Luke 8:18). The more of the Word we receive and share, the more God will give to us.

 

It is our job to sow the seed, we cannot make the seed germinate and produce a harvest. Even a busy farmer must sleep and let God work! However, when the harvest is ready, we must be alert and reap it, or the harvest may be lost (John 4:35-38).

 

Our faith in His Word is tested in the storms of life. If the disciples had really trusted His Word, they would not have panicked and accused Him of not caring. You can trust His Word, for it will never fail. Continue to seek answers and ask the Lord for understanding when a biblical teaching is unclear.

 

Some hearers are hardened like the wayside, so the seed of the word does not even make an impression in the soil before it is snatched away. Stony-ground soil are the hearers that take in the Word but their commitment to the gospel disappears when it meets resistance. The soil with thorns shows signs of growth, but worldly distractions choke the word that has been planted (I Tim. 6:9,10). Some people hear the word and put it into practice (James 1:22). Only this good ground produces the fruit of transformation. Where God’s word is wanted, He makes sure it is never wasted. (Isa 55:11).

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible, J. Vernon McGee Through the Bible

 

 

 

 

Mark 3 - Resist, Assist, or Mistrust?

 

Mark 3 – Resist, Assist or Mistrust?

 

The religious leaders were more concerned about protecting their tradition than helping a man with a handicapping condition. Despite all that Jesus did and said, they hardened their hearts and resisted His ministry, even to the extent of accusing Him of being in league with satan. In the end, they cooperated with the evil one!

 

The crowds were so large that Jesus had to empower His disciples to help Him in ministry. Later, He sent them out to preach, to heal various sicknesses, and to cast out demons as His Ambassadors. By virtue of their intimate connection to Him, all of Jesus’ followers can represent Him to a lost and hurting world (John 15:1-8). There is a job for everyone, even if only giving Him a little boat to use. If you want to assist Him, remember that the most important thing is being with Him. As He said, “Without Me, you can do nothing.”  (Jon 15:5).

 

Mary bore other children after the birth of Jesus, but they did not believe in Him. (John 7:1-5). Even His mother seemed to have doubts about her “popular” Son who was arousing the anger of the leaders. But Jesus was doing the will of God, and so should we. Although He honored His mother (John19:26,27) as the law commanded, Jesus did not allow even His own flesh and blood to prevent Him from doing the will of God (Eph. 6:6).

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com. Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible. J. Vernon McGee Through the Bible.