Daily Word

For since the message declared by angels proved to be reliable, and every transgression or disobedience received just retribution, how shall we escape if we neglect such a great salvation? Hebrews 2:2-3. The role of the angels (declared by angels) in the giving of the law is suggested in Deut. 33:2 and became a standard element of Jewish and Christian description in Sinai. The argument is from the lesser to the greater. If what the angels said was “reliable,” then what comes from One superior to angels must be more so. The Greek word for “reliable” is legal terminology, as is witness. Violators of the Lord’s covenant (just retribution) were purged from the covenant community through death. Salvation…as first mentioned in 1:14, includes inheritance of the world to come, entry into the glory as God’s adopted sons, purification from sins, freedom from fear of death, and the privilege of drawing near to God to offer worship that pleases Him. The apostles (those who heard Him) were witnesses of what Jesus said and did in His ministry, death, and resurrection. Think about this for a moment…How exactly are YOU neglecting your own salvation….and what are you going to do to stop that neglecting?

Daily Word

Therefore we must pay much closer attention to what we have heard, lest we drift from it. Hebrews 2:1. The first four verses of this chapter are warnings against neglecting salvation. This warning calls each of us to pay heed to the greater salvation which was declared by the Lord Himself, attesting by human eye witnesses, and authenticated God’s power. Following standard Jewish argumentation, the argument proceeds from the lesser (retributions under the Mosaic Law) to the greater (the danger of neglecting the greater salvation). Jesus is superior to angels (Therefore), we must pay close attention to what we have heard because this message from the Son of God is also superior to prior revelation, which came through angels. To “drift away” results in dangerous “neglect” of the message. There are many today whom appear to be stuck in the OT…never accepting or acquiring the riches of the new covenant. When we listen to others be it a pastor, evangelist, or biblical teacher, and we fail to seek and search through God’s word ourselves. We simply place ourselves in great danger of “drifting away” from truth which will eventually result in our neglecting of His truth.

Daily Word

And to which of the angels has he ever said, “Sit at my right hand until I make your enemies a footstool for your feet”? Are they all not ministering spirits sent out to serve for the sake of those who are to inherent salvation? Hebrews 1:13-14. The Son’s position of heavenly authority is contrasted to the angels’ role as servants to “those who are to inherit salvation” (that is, who share as co-heirs in the Son’s rights as heir). The angels are servants to Christ, but also to His people, who inherit salvation through union with Him. In this His people are favored above angels. No matter how hard folks attempt to glorify something other than Christ the fact remains that He has set the order and nothing we do will change that. We place people, and things like angles on a pedestal often forgetting that the Throne of God is and always will be above them all!

Weekend Quote (Sun)

Do little things as if they were great because of the majesty of the Lord Jesus Christ who dwell’s in you; and do great things as if they were little and easy because of His omnipotence. ~ Blaise Pascal

Weekend Quote (Sat)

The greatest need of the human personality is to experience God Himself. This is because of who God is and who and what man is. ~ A.W. Tozer

Daily Post

“And, You, Lord, laid the foundation of the earth in the beginning, and the heavens are the work of your hands; they will parish, but you remain; they will all wear out like a garment, like a robe you will roll them up, like a garment they will be changed. But you are the same, and your eyes will have no end.” Hebrews 1:10-12 The Son’s unchanging eternity as God is essential to His high priesthood. Through Him the inheritance of believers remains forever. When you look at the scope of things in your life, and ponder for a moment that everything will wear out, everything will parish; it has to bring about great joy to know that YOU have indeed through Christ Jesus become an inheritance of believers that will remain forever. Begin today to become more heavenly minded a directed than earthly minded and driven.

Daily Word

But of the Son he says, “Your throne, O God, is forever and ever, the scepter of uprightness is the scepter of your kingdom. You have loved righteousness and hated wickedness; therefore God, has anointed you with the oil of gladness beyond your companions.” Hebrews 1:8, 9. The quotation (Ps. 45:6-7) is from a Psalm extolling the Davidic King. Only Jesus, as the Davidic Messiah (the Anointed one), truly meets this description, since by reigning at God’s right hand He possess an eternal kingdom (Forever and ever) and reigns in true righteousness. The messianic Son is rightfully also called God, in this case by God the Father. There is no mistaking as to whom Christ Jesus is or from where Christ Jesus stands (or sits). Recognize today that YOU hold many roles in His kingdom from Servant (slave) to child of the living God!

Weekend Quote (Sun)

Watch where Jesus went. The one dominant note in His life was to do His Father’s will. His is not the way of wisdom or of Success, but the way of faithfulness. ~ Oswald Chambers

Daily Word

And Again, when he brings the firstborn into the world, he says, “Let all the angels worship him.” Of the angels he says, “He makes his angels winds, and hid ministers of flame.” Hebrews 1:6,7. As the Son condescends to assume our human nature, angels worship Him. As in Ps. 89:27, the term “firstborn” means “of the highest rank,” above the kings of the earth, and not “first in order of birth”. In Ex. 4:22 it means “chosen” or most “desired.” The storm clouds of Ps. 104 adorn the Lord’s heavenly court. “Winds” and “flame” associate angels with the created worlds mutability in contrast to the Son’s eternal permanence. In contrast to the Son’s royal enthronement, the angels are merely “ministers” or “servants.” While there are many books, and many different approaches in the teaching of “angels. Today we bring angels into perspective in contrast with Christ. There is nothing greater or in a higher position than Christ whom sits at the right hand of God.

Daily Word

For which of the angels did God ever say, “You are my son, today I have begotten you.” Or again, “I will be to him a father, and he shall be to me a son.” Hebrews 1:5. The Fathers decree declaring the messiah to be His Son is identified with Christ’s exaltation. Though Jesus is the eternal and divine Son of God, the declaration of redemptive Sonship prophesized in Psalm 2:7 was conferred on Him in time, when He completed His messianic work. As believers you and I cannot become divine and share in Christ’s eternal divine Sonship, but our adoption as sons of God means that we participate in Christ’s redemptive Sonship through union with the “founder of our salvation.” There are many today who are preaching false doctrine…Know and understand the difference between His Sonship and your adoption as a son of God.

Daily Word

He is the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of His nature, and He upholds the universe by the word of His power. After making purification for sins, He sat down at the right hand of the majesty on high, having become as much superior to angels as the name he has inherited is more excellent than theirs. Hebrews 1:3-4. The Greek word rendered “radiance” describes divine wisdom personified in the Jewish intertestamental book Wisdom of Solomon. But Hebrews speaks not merely of a personified divine attribute, but of a divine Person who entered history to purify sinners. The “exact imprint of his nature” expresses both the Son’s oneness with the Father and the distinction of divine persons. As One whose being corresponds exactly to the Father, the accurately reveals the Father. Christ is “the image of the invisible God,” through whom we see the Father. In the midst of history the Son’s command holds the created order in existence (“upholds the universe by the word of His power), preserving it from destruction until that day when His voice will remove all but the unshakable kingdom of God and its heirs. The “purification of sins” reminds us of the Son’s atoning death in history, the priestly act that cleanses us to worship in God’s presence. The Son’s enthronement at God’s “right hand” in heaven, promised in Ps. 110:1, reveals His superiority in two ways. At the “right hand” of the majesty of Christ is ministering in the true, heavenly sanctuary and not an earthly copy. Secondly, He “sat down” because His sacrificial work (unlike that of Levitical priests) was finished once and for all. Today take some time to read, and re-read through this, and truly see Christ in a deeper light than he is typically portrayed.

Daily Word

Today we begin in the book of Hebrews. The prologue introduces the two time periods in God’s speaking to His people: “Long ago” and “these last days.” The Son’s coming marks our time period as the “latter days” of salvation promised through the prophets. The piecemeal character of prophetic revelation showed its incompleteness (“at many times), just as the repetition of animal sacrifices showed that they could not remove guilt. “In many ways” included visions, dreams, and dark sayings. “God Spoke is an important theme throughout Hebrews to be watchful for. “His Son” this revelation is qualitatively superior to that given through the prophets. Moses, the greatest prophet, was only a servant in God’s house; Christ is “over God’s house as Son.” The Son speaks, as the prophets did, but speaks as the Son whose revelation is final. The Son’s supremacy will be displayed at the end of history, for “all things were created…for Him” (heir of all things). He is the first born, the preeminent heir, whose enemies will be put under His feet. As God’s adopted sons through Jesus, we to are heirs. The son’s supremacy was displayed at the dawn of history, for “by him all things were created” (through whom…He created the world). The Greek word rendered “world” is lit. “ages” also “universe” in highlighting the successive periods of history in the created order. Later in Verses 10-12 quote Ps. 102:25-27 as testimony to the Son’s role in creation and His eternal preeminence, in contrast to the created universe. Re-read those first two verses and meditate on the fact that God has been speaking to us for a very long time. Do you hear Him today speaking to you through His son Jesus the Christ?

Daily Word

Now to Him who is able to strengthen you according to my gospel and the preaching of the Lord Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery that was kept secret for long ages but has now been disclosed and through the prophetic writings has been made known to all nations, according to the command of all the eternal God, to bring about the obedience of faith- to the only wise God be glory forevermore through Jesus Christ! Amen. Romans 16: 25-27. The authenticity of this closing doxology is questioned by some on the grounds of its length, its emphasis on mystery, and its textual history. There is, however, a certain appropriateness about its length, coming at the end of a letter like Romans. Its themes draw to a fitting conclusion much that has already been said. In particular, Paul draws attention to his own teaching of the gospel and its power to edify, to the revelation of God’s mystery, to the faith and obedience among nations, and to the wisdom of God in redemption. Today we conclude our walk through the Book of Romans, I pray these daily devotional post have encouraged, strengthened, and help start your day off on a positive foot. I will begin in a new book tomorrow… Have a blessed day!

Weekend Quote (Sun)

"Churches don’t need new members half as much as they need the old bunch made over." ~ Billy Sunday

Weekend Quote (Sat)

Never once did it occur to me that when I found the trail again, it would ruin my life forever. For once you feel the breath of God breath on your skin, you can never turn back, you can never settle for what was, you can only move recklessly, with abandon, your heart filled with fear and your ears ringing with those constant words, “fear not.” ~ Mike Yacconelli

Daily Word

For your obedience is known to all, so that I rejoice over you, but I want you to be wise as to what is good and innocent as to what is evil. The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Romans 16-19,20. The Romans need spiritual wisdom (innocent) and hearts without any alloy of evil. Prior to the closing greeting and doxology, Paul includes a promise of a prophetic nature, rooted in the first biblical deliverance promise in Gen. 3:15. Satan is the source of all “evil.” “The God of peace” (wholeness and integrity as well as tranquility) will act as the Divine Warrior to overcome him. This will take place “soon .” Paul may be speaking here of matters in the near future, or about the last things, which by faith is always seen as near at hand. What would it look like, and mean to you that “your obedience is known to all?” If not…Why not?

Daily Word

I appeal to you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and create obstacles contrary to the doctrine that you have been taught; avoid them. For such persons do not serve our Lord Christ, but their own appetites, and by smooth talk and flattery they deceive the hearts of the naïve. Romans 16:17-18. Christians must be alert, for these false teachers and divisive people are attractive in speech and are motivated by selfish desires. Do the things that you believe in…that build the foundation in the core of who you are in Christ come from your personal studies/search through the scriptures or from that which is simply spoken to you from the pulpit each week? Do you believe and follow what God has spoken to you or what man has spoken to you with out the Father’s confirmation?

Daily Word

Greet also the church in their house. Greet my beloved Epaenetus, who was the first convert to Christ in Asia. Greet Mary, who has worked hard for you. Greet Andronicus and Junia, my kinsmen and fellow prisoners. They are well known to the apostles, and they were in Christ before me. Greet Ampliatus, my beloved in the Lord. Greet Urbanus, our fellow worker in Christ, and my beloved Stachchys. Greet Apelles, who is approved in Christ. Greet those who belong to the family of Aristobulus. Greet my kinsmen Herodion. Greet those in the Lord who belong to the family of Narcissus. Greet those workers in the Lord Tryhaena and Tryphosa. Greet the beloved Persis, who has worked hard in the Lord. Greet Rufus, chosen in the Lord; also his mother, who has been a mother to me as well. Greet Asyncritus, the brothers who were with them. Greet Philegon, Hermes, Patrobas, Hermas, and Philologus, Julia, Nereus, and his sister, and Olympas, and all the saints who are with them. Greet one another with a holy kiss. All the churches of Chris greet you. Romans 16:5-16. Paul recognized the devoted service of women. According to early commentators Andronicus and Junia were husband and wife. They were fellow Jews, and had been converted (“In Christ”) before Paul himself. They had apparently been in prison at some time with Paul and had served with distinction as special envoys (“apostles”) of the churches. The use of “apostle” is broader than the strict sense of the twelve plus Paul. Ampliatus, probably a slave, whose name appears on a tomb in the catacomb of Domitilla, niece of the Emperor Domitian. Urbanus/Stachys were common slave names, the former Roman, the latter Greek. Apelles was a common Greek name, borne by one who had distinguished himself through trial and remained faithful. Herodian, was perhaps a freedman of the household of Herod, since freedmen took the name of their patron. “Rufus, chosen in the Lord,” is one of the most intriguing of the names listed in view of Mark 15:21, a gospel possibly written in Rome. “Chosen” may reflect the unique circumstances that brought his family into contact with Christ. Paul’s allusion to the mother as “his mother…to me as well” suggests deep affection for the family. Today is a longer posting than usual because I think it important to reflect over all these names and recognize that none of these people were pointed to because they healed the sick, lame, or blind. Or any other miraculous demonstration of Christ. They simply ordinary people who served, and were recognized because of their passion, humbleness, and loyalty to Christ and those of the body of Christ…fellow believers. How will you be remembered?

Daily Word

Greet Prisca and Aquila, my fellow workers in Christ Jesus, who risked their necks for my life, to whom not only I give thanks but all churches of the Gentiles give thanks as well. Romans 16:3-4. The couple were tent makers like Paul. He was with them in Corinth. They had left Rome following the decree of Claudius and accompanied Paul to Ephesus. They taught Apollos and later returned to Rome. We know that many of the early church lost their lives for their conviction and belief in Christ Jesus. Many today still live in fear and lose their lives over their beliefs. I wonder how many Christians today would risk their necks on account of a fellow believer in Christ. It’s easy to say “I would,” but, in reality most can’t or won’t even share the gospel with a neighbor, co-worker, or family member. Today, front yourself out to those around you living an example of exactly who it is that is Lord of your life. If your afraid to risk your self you’ll never risk for another.

Daily Word

I commend to you our sister Phoebe, a servant of the church at Cenchreae, that you may welcome in the Lord in a way worthy of the saints, and help her in whatever she may need from you, for she has been a patron of many and of myself as well.. Romans 16:1-2. Paul’s letters typically end with personal news and greetings. The closing chapter of Romans is remarkable for the large number of fellow believers mentioned. These verses give insight into the warmth of the apostle’s personal relationships as well as the fellowship of the early Christians. Paul’s word (Greek diakonos) is variously translated as “servant”, or “deacon”. It is uncertain whether Paul uses the term to refer to the specific church office of deacon, or describes Phoebe as a servant of the church in a more general sense. Today’s churches can found in many sizes from Mega (thousands) to smaller (25+), and anything in between. One doesn't have to look far to find another with a story of having been “hurt” or “offended” while attending another church. Others simply “stay away” from churches because they falsely believe they don’t need to attend “church.” The truth plain and simple is this my friends…We, YOU and I are of a corrupt nature in which nothing good dwells, and while We are all striving to become “Christ like” we often fall short of the goal. There are far to many components to that to get into right now. However, we must recognize that whatever comes our way is an opportunity for growth in some way be it in character, or in practice of our fruits of the Holy Spirit. We are called to be and act in fellowship with one another within the body of Christ, and within that unique relationship we are given extraordinary opportunities to serve others. When was the last time someone referred to you as a “servant of the church?”

Weekend Quote (Sun)

When conscience begins to awaken by God, we either become subtle hypocrites or saints, that is, either we let God’s law working through conscience bring us to a place where we can be put right, or we begin to hoodwink ourselves, to affect a religious pose, not before other people, but before ourselves, in order to appease conscience - anything to be kept out of the real presence of God because wherever He comes He disturbs. ~ Oswald Chambers

Weekend Quote (Sat)

Every false accusation, every slander, every ill word spoken about me is an opportunity for me to grow in my sanctification. ~ R.C. Sproul

Daily Word

I appeal to you, brothers, by our Lord Jesus Christ and by the love of the Spirit, to strive together with me in your prayers to God on my behalf, that I may be delivered from unbelievers in Judea, and that my service in Jerusalem may be acceptable to the saints, so that by God’s will I may come to you with joy and be refreshed in your company. May the God of peace be with you all. Romans 15:30-33. Paul’s concern is two fold: a) that he may be protected from the hostility of the Jews that has marked the whole of his ministry; b) that Jewish Christians in Jerusalem will respond to the Gentile gift, sealing the apostle’s ministry. “The God of peace” is one of Paul’s favorite references for God, but particularly appropriate here in regard to his present struggle. Some believe that those prayers were never answered because of what happened to Paul. However, Paul still made it to Rome just not in the manner in which he or they had anticipated. Even as a prisoner Paul entered Rome with the Joy of Christ and as an encouragement for fellow Christians. When your looking to God for one direction and He brings about another completely opposite from what you wanted .Do you find yourself bent out of shape and complaining about it or do you look past what you wanted and get about the Father’s business?

Daily Word

When therefore I have completed this and have delivered to them what has been collected, I will leave fro Spain by way of you. I know that when I come to you I will come in the fullness of the blessing of Christ. Romans 15:28-29. After the collection has been delivered in Jerusalem, Paul plans to travel to Rome and then on to Spain. Paul was imprisoned, however, after he arrived in Jerusalem. Paul’s plan to come to Rome was realized, but not in the way he intended, since he arrived in Rome as a prisoner. How often do we set our minds on where we will go or what we will do only to have those plans interrupted and changed to something different? Think about this one for a few and be reminded that His plans are not our plans, and our plans are not His plans. Have you surrendered enough to become adaptable to His change to serve His purpose in everyday life?

Daily Word

At present, however, I am going to Jerusalem bringing aid to the saints. For Macedonia and Achaia have been pleased to make some contribution for the poor among the saints at Jerusalem. For they were pleased to do it, and indeed they owe it to them. For if the Gentiles have come to share in their spiritual blessings, they ought also to be of service to them in material blessings. Romans 15:25-27. The gladness of the Gentiles in providing for the needs of the Jewish Christians is fitting. They stand in debt to the Jews, for they enjoy the spiritual blessings of the Jewish people and hence should happily assist them financially. Paul assumes that financial aid for the needy Christian is a normal part of the Christian life. I truly wonder how a letter would read from Paul today…Why is it we look out at the un-saved and feel it our Christian duty to help feed them or clothe them; yet when we see or know of someone within the body we seem to look the other way? When was the last time you reached out to someone with in your own church body and lent a helping hand? You do not score any more points with God helping a non-believer than you do a believer!

Daily Word

This is the reason I have so often been hindered from coming to you. But now, since I no longer have any room for work in these regions, and sense I have longed for many years to come to you, I hope to see you in passing as I go to Spain, and to be helped on my journey there by you, once I have enjoyed your company for a while. Romans 15: 22-24 Paul now discloses his immediate plans to visit Jerusalem with the gifts the churches had raised for the Christians there. Jerusalem was an impoverished city in general; in addition, the Christians there would suffer particular hardship as a suspect minority. But Paul sees a significance deeper than charity in the gift. It is a duty, a solemn obligation of the Gentiles in view of the privileged they have received in being grafted into God’s olive tree. This conforms to the general principle that those who receive spiritual blessings should share their own material blessings. Today, recognize all the blessings that God has provided you in this life, and determine not to withhold ANYTHING from ANYONE be it material or spiritual gifts.

Daily Word

And thus I make it my ambition to preach the gospel, not where Christ has already been named, lest I build on someone else’s foundation, but as it is written, “ those who have never been told of him will see, an those who have never heard will understand.”. Romans 15: 20-21. Paul’s aim was to preach the gospel in areas where no churches existed. His calling was not to plant churches where they already existed. Thereby he was fulfilling the prophesy of Isaiah 52:15. The servant was rejected by many (In His passion, Jesus was beaten into a shockingly inhuman mass of wounded flesh), so he will sprinkle many nations to make them clean. Kings (representing the nations) shall shut their mouths, awed by His wretched humiliation and exalted glory. “That which has not been told them” is revealed uniquely in the gospel. Today, the body of Christ has grossly, and inerrantly come to believe the road to reach non-believers is through a “feel good” or “genie Jesus” fix all mentality. The gospel needs no buttered up presentation. The Holy Spirit works within a man through the gospel itself not on presentation. The only outcome of a buttered up presentation is “False Converts.” I have yet to read anywhere that Paul used any worldly means of his day in his presentation of the gospel to reach the un-saved WHY should we? Learn the gospel and present it often and correctly it will change your life!

Weekend Quote (Sun)

“ The church has often been more concerned to prove itself right than to present the message which by its transforming effect is it’s own proof.” ~ Myron S. Augsburger

Weekend Quote (Sat)

Men that have their spirits heated and enraged and raising in bitter resentment when they are injured act as if they thought some strange thing had happening to them. Whereas they are very foolish in so thinking for it is no strange thing at all but only what was to be expected in a world like this. They therefore do not act wisely that allow their spirits to be ruffled by the injuries they suffer. ~ Jonathan Edwards

Daily Word

In Christ Jesus, then, I have reason to be proud of my work for God. For I will not venture to speak of anything except what Christ has accomplished through me to bring the Gentiles to obedience-by word and deed, by the power of signs and wonders, by the power of the spirit of God-so that from Jerusalem and all the way around to Illyricum I have fulfilled the ministry of the gospel of Christ; Romans 15-18-19. Paul summarizes up his whole ministry up to this point by saying that Christ accomplished His work through him by word and deed, that is, both by Paul’s preaching about Christ and by Paul’s actions (lifestyle, with mighty works) that accompanied those words. “By the power of signs and wonders” refers to the miracles that accompanied Paul’s gospel proclamation throughout his entire ministry. Such miracles gave a ”sign” of (or pointed to) the power of God, the divine origin of truth of the gospel, and God’s mercy and love for people. They were “wonders” in that people were amazed by them. Paul has fulfilled his mandate to preach the gospel among the Gentiles from Jerusalem to Illyricum. How can Paul say his work has been complete when many still have not heard the gospel in his area? It can be seen in other verses that churches were planted in key centers, and from there Paul’s coworkers will bring the gospel to out lying areas. People today run from church to church seeking “signs and wonders.” It is because there is such a lack of maturity that so many fail to recognize that “signs and wonders” occur daily in our own lives that more than prove the power of God. They are simply missed or over looked because have become so busy in our lives, and have become so much like the world that our expectation of “signs and wonders” is in an epic proportion. Today, look for “signs and wonders” in your daily life that prove the power of God!

Daily Word

But on some points I have written to you very boldly by way of reminder, because of the grace given by God to be a minister of Christ Jesus to the Gentiles in the priestly service of the gospel of God, so that the offering of the Gentiles may be acceptable, sanctified by the Spirit. Romans 15:15-16. Paul functions, so to speak, as a priest relative to the gospel, and the offering he presents to God is Gentile converts. This offering is pleasing to God since it is set apart into the realm of the Holy (sanctified) by the Holy Spirit. How much different would your approach to evangelism be today, sharing the gospel with your neighbor, co-worker, friends or family be if you considered it the outcome of those whom were converted as an offering to God knowing very well that it is pleasing to Him?

To good not to share...

Written by a man of God whom I've never met in person, but have become friends with through Facebook: As I head to bed tonight I wonder what has happened? It seems to have happened so quickly. Even over my life time 4 years is just a blink. Just a thought. But we as a nation have plummeted into a pit of hate, despair, envy, murder so dark and so deep I fear we may never come out. Our hope is not to be found here. Our change will not come from a city filled with the greed of ages. I find myself a stranger in a strange land. Unfamiliar with the new customs we are expected to abide by. The religions of the pagan world surround me. Our history is mocked, our faith stolen, our hearts broken. Strange new temples dominate the skyline. Prayers from far away lands and evil gods now cover our cities. Yet still we wonder why has he forsaken us? Where have all the good people gone? How are we to live without the light, the compass, or the grace shown by our Father? Our nation I am afraid will stumble, fall, and collapse on the shards of those who came before us. A wasted venture. A failed promise. For when people are afraid of freedom what can we do? If we cannot imagine the daring, the brave, the fearless things. We cannot imagine the next day. Because security is fleeting. Freedom is dangerous. Without the fear of failure the excitement of success would not be so grand. Life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness now are terms from a mystical land. Terms to be viewed as idealistic but not practical. Life we know is subject to our own terms. For only then can we sacrifice our future on the altar of lust and power. Your safety is meaningless unless the most innocent are keep from harm. Our lives revolve around snookie, snoop, and where Michelle and oprah go on vacation. We have no time for virtue, love, or faith. Things long since tossed to the side for progress sake. Forward for forwards sake. Money, sex, and drugs are the fuel we burn now. Celebrity the new gods of today. Freedom. Freedom. Freedom. More than just a word. Freedom is what we have been handed down. Slavery is what we will hand down. God forgive us. For if this mighty ship. This beautiful city on a hill is not saved now. Where will freedom go? She like so many of our children will be placed upon the altar of self. To never rise again.

Daily Word

I myself am satisfied about you, my brothers, that you yourselves are full of goodness, filled with all knowledge and able to instruct one another. Romans 15:14. Paul’s reference “My Brothers” is a further indication of deeply felt emotion. Paul graciously assures the Romans that his lengthy exposition of the gospel is not intended to raise doubts about their spiritual understanding. Their knowledge of the gospel and ability to apply it practically in mutual admonition is not in question. To “instruct” translates the Greek noutheteo, “instruct, admonish, warn, counsel,” which is often used of warning against wrong conduct. Paul encourages ordinary Christians (those who have greater maturity and wisdom) to give one another practical, real-life wisdom and counsel. Unfortunately, today there is such a tremendous lack of maturity in the body of Christ that when most are given any type “noutheteo” they quickly squeal defensively a misinterpreted understanding of having judgment cast upon them. Iron sharpens Iron, today be as ready to be sharpened as you are to sharpen others!

Daily Word

For I tell you that Christ became a servant to the circumcised to show God’s truthfulness, in order to confirm the promises given to the patriarchs, and in order that the Gentiles might glorify God for His mercy. As it is written, “Therefore I will praise you among the Gentiles, and sing to your name.” And again it is said, “Rejoice, O Gentiles, with his people.” And again, “Praise the Lord, all you Gentiles., and let all the peoples extol him.” And again Isaiah says, “ The root of Jesse will come, even he who arises to rule the Gentiles; in him will the Gentiles hope.” Romans 15:8-13. The Circumcised refers to the Jews here. In fulfilling God’s saving promise to the Jews, the Lord’s truthfulness and faithfulness to His Word are demonstrated. Paul cites several OT verses which emphasize the inclusion of the Gentiles into the people of God along with the Jews. If the first reference is from 2 Samuel 22:50, citations are provided from the historical books, the law, the writings, and the prophets. The one people of God, both the Jews and the Gentiles, will praise God forever for His great mercy extended to them in Christ Jesus, showing that the worship of God is His ultimate aim in salvation history. Does your act of worship towards God go beyond Sunday morning worship?

Daily Word

May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another in accord with Christ Jesus, that together you may with one voice glorify the God and father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God. Romans 15:5-7. Unity in the church is essential if God is to be glorified. Paul has demonstrated that humanity, which has fallen short of God’s glory, is restored to it in Christ’s reconciling work. How much of an effort do you really make to live in harmony with others, and what is preventing you from being part of the one voice glorifying God?

Daily Quote (Sun)

“ Christ and… is a perverted gospel, which is not the gospel. Christ with out the “and” is the sinner’s hope and the saint’s confidence…for salvation itself, Jesus is not only necessary, but He is enough.: ~ H. A. Ironside

Weekend Quote (Sat)

As love to God prevails, it tends to set persons above human injuries, in this sense, that the more they love God the more they will place all their happiness in Him. They will look to God as their all and seek their happiness in portion in His favor, and thus not in the allotments of His providence alone. The more they love God, the less they set their hearts on their worldly interests, which are all that their enemies can touch. ~ Jonathan Edwards

Daily Word

For what ever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the scriptures we might have hope. Romans 15:4. It is basic NT teaching that OT scriptures were written by divine inspiration for the benefit of Christians. Paul expresses confidence that all of the OT was written down for the instruction and encouragement of God’s people, thus indirectly implying that all words of the OT are words of God, words that He wisely directed to be written not only for His purposes at the time they were written but also for later centuries. We cannot have a clear understanding of NT scriptures without understanding and applying that of OT scriptures. Everyone who tries will eventually fail because there is nothing partial in God. God is a God of completion and without the OT the NT cannot be completed. How often do you apply OT with NT understanding?

Daily Word

We who are strong have an obligation to bear with the failings of the weak, and not to please ourselves. Let each of us please his neighbor for his good to build him up. For Christ did not please Himself, but as it is written, ”The reproaches of those who reproached you fell on me.” Romans 15:1-4. Paul considers himself one of the “”strong”. He sees the misinformed conscience of the “weak” as real weakness, yet he emphasizes the responsibility of the “strong” to support the “weak.” He does not encourage feelings of pride, or flaunting one’s freedom in matters offensive to the weak. Paul quotes from Psalm 69:9, one of the most frequently quoted Psalms in the NT. The willingness of the Messiah to deny Himself and suffer for the benefit of others should serve as an example to the Christians in Rome. How much effort to you put into building up those around you compared to that which you invest into building yourself up? 1.10.13

Daily Word

The faith that you have, keep between yourself and God. Blessed is the one who has no reason to pass judgment on himself for what he approves. But whoever has doubts is condemned if he eats, because the eating is not from faith. For whatever does not proceed from faith is sin. Romans 14: 22-23. Paul urges the strong “”strong” to enjoy the fact of their liberty of conscience in God’s presence (while refraining from publicly exercising it). Meditate on this for a moment…What does it mean to you to have liberty of conscience and how do you apply it in your walk?

Daily Word

So then let us pursue what makes for peace and for mutual up building. Do not, for the sake of food, destroy the work of God. Everything is indeed clean, but it is wrong for anyone to make another stumble by what he eats. It is good not to eat meat or drink wine or do anything that causes your brother to stumble. Romans 14:19-21. The believer’s responsibility is now stated positively: avoiding the destruction of others is complemented by promoting “peace” and the things that “up build.” For the “strong,” this includes both maintaining fellowship with the “weak” and also encouraging them to understand the liberty that is theirs in Christ. When such aims are in view, freedom to eat and drink will be made subservient to them; the well being of the brother will take precedence over the enjoyment of meat and wine. How different would your day be today if the well being of those around you took precedence over your selfishness?

Daily Word

So do not let what you regard as good be spoken of as evil. For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking but of righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. Whoever thus serves Christ is acceptable to God and approved by men. Romans 14:16-18. Christians whom are strong in the faith are urged to weigh the importance of exercising their freedom against two considerations: a) the use of their freedom may bring division and disrepute on the church; b) God’s kingdom (and therefore our freedom) is not a matter of food and drink, but of the blessings of grace. Since freedom does not consist in these things, it cannot be lost by our refraining from them. While God alone is our judge, the impact of our actions on others plays a vital role in fellowship and evangelism. In what way does the impact your having on those around you demonstrate more of… worldly passions or Holiness in Christ?

Weekend Quote (Sun)

“Every Christian should be both conservative and radical; conservative in persevering the faith and radical in applying it.” ~ John Stott

Weekend Quote (Sat)

When conscience begins to awaken by God, we either become subtle hypocrites or saints, that is, either we let God’s law working through conscience bring us to a place where we can be put right, or we begin to hoodwink ourselves, to affect a religious pose, not before other people, but before ourselves, in order to appease conscience - anything to be kept out of the real presence of God because wherever He comes He disturbs. ~ Oswald Chambers

The pride of self...

RT @Lance A. Dustin Failing to trust in God is to simply fuel the flames of your pride...

Daily Quote

Therefore let us not pass judgment on one another any longer, but rather decide never to put a stumbling block or hindrance in the way of a brother. I know and am persuaded in the Lord Jesus that nothing is unclean in itself, but it is unclean for everyone who thinks it unclean. For if your brother is grieved by what you eat, you are no longer walking in love. By what you eat do not destroy the for whom Christ died. Romans 14:13-15. In the context of Jewish faith, “destroy” means to cut off from the covenant community. To encourage behavior that weak believers’ consciences forbid is to encourage them to go against their conscience, a serious and dangerous act. We have only to look at the world around us, and our selves in every day life to fully grasp this. How many times a day does the world and the flesh battle with you to go against your conscience? Has it at times proven itself to be a serious and sometimes dangerous act?

Daily Word

For if we live, we live to the Lord, and if we die, we die to the Lord. So then, whether we live or whether we die, we are the Lord’s. For to this end Christ died and lived again, that he might be Lord of both of the dead and of the living. Why do you pass judgment on your brother? For we will all stand before the judgment seat of God; for it is written, “As I live, says the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God.” So then, each of us will give an account of himself to God. Romans 14:8-12. Christ alone is Lord and judge of His people. The cost to Him of this privilege was immense and exposes the inappropriateness of believers judging or despising their brothers. We must give an account of our own lives to the Lord, as those being judged, not as those who judge. Confronting sin in a fellow believer with integrity and sincerity in an attempt to help that person return to the righteousness of Godly living is not passing judgment as so many people seem to believe. However, pointing out the sin in a fellow believer with no intention of anything other than exposing and gossiping is the judgment spoken of here. Have you ever thought about standing before almighty God to give your account? Will you be one with many words, and excuses or one weeping and in silence?

Daily Post

One person esteems one day as better than another, while another esteems all days alike. Each one should be fully convinced in his own mind. The one who observes the day, observes it in honor of the Lord. The one who eats, eats in honor of the Lord, since he gives thanks to God, while the one who abstains, abstains in honor of the Lord and gives thanks to God. Romans 14:5-7. A pattern of holy days characterized the Jewish year, and its probably to these that Paul refers, and not to the Sabbath. If the Sabbath were in view it would have been more natural to say, “One man considers the Sabbath above the other days.” Verses 6,7 appeal to what is shared by both groups, namely the desire to honor the same Lord. That both belong to Him puts minor divisions into perspective. Who do you have sit in division with in your life hat needs to be put into perspective and reminded that they belong to God?

Daily Word

As for the one who is weak in faith, welcome him, but not to quarrel over opinions. Romans 14:1. Our basic attitude as Christians towards fellow-Christians is one of welcome and acceptance based on God’s attitude to us in Christ. There must be charity toward the “weak” person whose conscience is still bound by scruples from which the gospel normally sets us free. Meditate on this for a few moments…is there yet something that you have set to allow the gospel to set you free from?

Weekend Quote

Think often on God, by day, by night, In your business, and even in your diversions. He is always near you and with you; leave Him not alone. You would think it rude to leave a friend alone who came to visit you; why, then, must God be neglected? ! Brother Lawrence

Weekend Quote

For thy great gift, O Father, We thank thee today- The gift of silence; For the rich, warm, generous silence We thank thee, Wherein our souls, Stunted and shriveled and starved In the arid desert of everyday hurry and strain, May rest, and quietly grow, and expand upward to thee. -John S. Hoyland

Daily Word

Let us walk properly as in the daytime, not in orgies and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and sensuality, not in quarreling and jealously. But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to gratify its desires. Romans 13:13-14. Paul’s warning against a sinful life-style strikingly includes not only the traditional sins of the flesh (“orgies and drunkenness…sexual immorality and sensuality”) but also insidious vises that can be harbored or even paraded in the heart of the church. Paul’s exhortation can be summed up in the call to put on...Christ. The metaphor of putting on clothing implies not just imitating Christ’s character but also living in close personal fellowship with Him. Even though believers have a new life, they still must constantly renounce the flesh and refuse to gratify desires. How much more of the “putting on of Christ” could you apply each day if you were to remove the layers of compromise you’ve allowed yourself to be clothed in instead?

Daily Word

Besides this you know the time, that the hour has come for you to wake from sleep. For salvation is nearer to us now than when we first believed. The night is far gone; the day is at hand. So then let us cast off the works of darkness and put on the armor of light. Romans 13:11-12. These final verses call us as Christians to action, given the shortness of the time before Jesus returns. Sleep here is a metaphor of a life of moral carelessness and laxity. Salvation is viewed as a future reality here, and it draws nearer everyday ( the day is at hand). The nearness of the end summons each of us as Christians to put off all evil works and to live in the light. If you knew of the exact time of Chris’s return…how differently would you live your life the year, month, week, day…before His arrival?

Daily Word

For the commandments, “You shall not commit adultery, You shall not murder, You shall not steal, You shall not covet,” and any other commandment, are summed up in this word: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” Romans 13:9. Paul sites several OT commandments regarding responsibility to others, all of which are summed up in the call from Lev. 19:18 to love your neighbor as yourself. How does your treatment towards others demonstrate what you think of yourself?

Daily Word

Owe no one anything, except to love each other, for the one who loves another has fulfilled the law. Romans 13:8. “Owe no one anything” links back to verse 7, and thus the command does not prohibit all borrowing but means that one should always “pay what is owed”, fulfilling whatever repayment agreements have been made. The debt one never ceases paying is the call to LOVE one another. Indeed, love fills what the Mosaic law demands. How often do you become delinquent for non payment of love to others?

Weekend Quote

The soul loves and is loved in return; she seeks and is sought; she calls and is called. But in this, she lifts and is lifted up; She holds and is herself held; she clasps and she is closely embraced, and by the bond of love she unites herself to God, one with one, alone with him. ~ Saint Thomas Aquinas

Daily Word

Therefore one must be in subjection, not only to avoid God’s wrath but also for the sake of conscience. For because of this you also pay taxes, for the authorities are ministers of God, attending to this very thing. Pay to all what is owed to them; taxes to whom taxes are owed, revenue to whom revenue is owed, respect to whom respect is owed, honor to whom honor is owed. Romans 13:6-7. Christians must not refuse to pay taxes simply because they think some of the money is used unjustly, for the Roman empire surely did not use all of its money for Godly purposes! So, too, believers are to honor their leaders, even if they are not fully admirable. As Christians our submission is a response of the conscience instructed by divine revelation. Because the task of government is divinely ordained and requires financial support, We as Christians can pay taxes with a distinctive motive and understanding, as an element of devotion to God. Paul was evidently familiar with Jesus’ statement (Matt 22:21), and indicates here how it is applied. Have you ever considered paying your taxes as an honor to God? Think of a leader, or someone in authority over you whom may not be full admirable and lift them up in prayer today.

Daily Word

For rulers are a terror to good conduct, but to bad. Would you have no fear for the one who is in authority? Then do what is good, and you will receive his approval, for he is God’s servant for you good. But if you do wrong. Be afraid, for he does not bear the sword in vain. For he is a servant of God, an avenger who carries out God’s own wrath on the wrong doer. Romans 13:3-4. Rebellion against the authority implies rebellion against God’s ordinance. The state’s authority is for society’s benefit; this is its normal function, and Paul assumes it may be realized in practical terms even when governments are professedly non-Christian. The power of life and death (the sword). Capitol punishment is undoubtedly in view here. Elsewhere Paul accepts the principle of such punishment appropriate (Acts 25:11). What the individual must not do out of revenge, the state may legitimately do in pursuit of justice. We certainly live in a day and time where it’s easy to question the appointed government. However, scripture is clear that He appoints, and we are not to walk in rebellion. Do you find yourself spending more time complaining about or praying for the appointed government before you?

Daily Word

Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except God, and those that exist have been instituted by God. Therefore whoever resists the authorities resists what God has appointed, and those who resist will incur judgment. Romans 13;1-3. Civil government is a means ordained by God for ruling and maintaining order in communities. It is one of a number of such means, including ministers in the church and parents in the home. Each such means has its own sphere of authority under Christ, who now rules and sustains creation, and the limits of each sphere are set by reference to the others. In our fallen world these authorities are intuitions of God’s “common grace” (kindly providence), standing as a bulwark against anarchy and the dissolution of ordered society. Whatever we think, or however we might feel about the government scripture is clear that God is in charge and we are to trust in Him

Daily Post

If possible, so far as it depends on you, leave peaceably with all. Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.” To the contrary, “if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by so doing you will heap burning coals on his head. Do not be over come by evil, but overcome evil with good. Romans 12:18-21. We as Christians have an obligation to be peacemakers. Harmony is not always possible, since truth divides us as well as unites. Paul’s double qualification (“if…so far as”) recognizes this, but the obligation to strive for peace in our personal relations with others remains. We must be free from the desire to “get even.” Such release from the instinct for revenge is possible because the believer knows that God will right all wrongs in His own perfect judgment. Scripture urges us, while God remains patient with the wrong doer, to show grace to him. As you reflect on these verses be reminded just how often it “depends on you” on a daily basis. While there maybe someone who comes to mind in regards to “getting even” with; also be reminded that you to are a “wrong doer” of whom God is showing His patients with.

Daily Word

Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them. Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep, Live in harmony with one another. Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly. Never be wise in your own sight. Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. Romans 12:14-17. Paul reflects here on the teachings of Jesus found in Matthew (5:39,44). The genuine unity of the body of Christ is especially evident in the empathy of its members in moments of high joy or deep sorrow. Paul’s language gives the idea of Christians sharing the same thoughts with respect to one another, another indication of the strategic role of the mind in sanctification. One manifestation of this will be an absence of conceit and pride in worldly position. Christians should be distinguished by their readiness to “associate with the lowly.” Many will look at this, and will agree whole heartily. But, at the end of the day is there an evidenced application of this in your life for others to distinguish you?

Weekend quote

The dearest idol I have known, Whatever that idol be, Help me to tear it from thy throne, and worship only thee. ~ William Cowper

Weekend Quote

The most fatiguing activity in the world is the drive to seem other than you are; it is less exhausting to become what you want to be than to maintain a façade. ~ Sydney J. Harris

Daily Word

Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good. Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor. Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord. Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality. Romans 12:9-13. The remainder of this chapter is a life that is pleasing to God. Not surprisingly, LOVE heads the list, for all that Paul says is embraced by the call to love. Love cannot be reduced to sentimentalism. Christians are to hate evil. There must be no hesitation or sloth in Christian living. We should be “fervent,” living for Christ with enthusiasm and energy. Hospitality was very important for early Christians, for most of them could not afford hotels when traveling but depended on the provision of fellow believers. How much different would your life be today if you were to put into practice, and daily living the above scriptures?

Daily Word

Having gifts that differ according to the grace given us, let us use them: If prophecy, in proportion to our faith; if service, in our serving; the one who teaches, in his teaching; the one who exhorts, in his exhortation; the one who contributes, in generosity; the one who leads, with zeal; the one who does acts of mercy, with cheerfulness. Romans 12:6-8 Christians should concentrate upon and give their energies to the gifts God has given them, whether in serving others, teaching God’s word patiently, or in exhortation and encouragement in the things of God. Some interpreters see “faith” as the prophets own faith. Others understand “faith” to mean the truth content of the gospel as the standard and measure of each prophetic utterance, testing whether the utterance conforms to “the pattern the sound words.” Paul recognizes the wide variety and practicality of these gifts and the intertwining of natural endowments with them. Throughout, it is clear that the blessing of those ministered to is the paramount consideration in using the gifts. How diligent are you in using the gifts God has given you to bless and minister to the body of Christ around you?

Daily Word

For as in one body we have many members, and the members do not have the same function, so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members of one another. Romans 12:4-5.. Paul makes use of the analogy of the body and its various parts to illustrate the nature of the church. He stresses it’s unity in verse five. Church is so much more than a building we show up to once or twice a week, and of above all other places we go. This should be the one place where which we should find love, peace, and unity among one another. To simply show up and do nothing is in itself a selfish act. Do you add to, or take away from, the unity of your church?

Daily Word

For by grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think with sober judgment, each according to the measure of faith that God has assigned. Romans 12:3. Paul’s ministry exists only because of grace, as do spiritual gifts. Realistic assessment of one’s gift (”think with sober judgment”) is essential, and involves a recognition of one’s “measure of faith,” that is, knowing to what extent one has the faith suited for exercising particular gifts. The faith by which we are justified is a separate question. Sometimes the frustration and discouragement brought about in serving the body of Christ is simply our own doing of attempting to operate outside that which God has gifted us to operate in. Our you operating in the gift God has given you or struggling in your attempt to something else?

Daily Word

Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. Romans 12:2. For Christians our mind-set is to be determined and reshaped by knowledge of the gospel, by the power of the Spirit, and by the concerns of the age to come, rather than by the passing fashion of this age. Only by such sanctifying renewal is the Christian made sufficiently sensitive to “discern” the behavior that is God’s will in each situation. “By testing you may discern” translates in the Greek, which often has the sense of finding out the worth of something by putting it to use or testing it in actual practice. In all honesty with yourself; how often do you really put the worth of God’s word to use or to test in each of the situations you face throughout the day as you walk with Christ?

Weekend Quote

It takes real faith to begin to live the life of heaven while still upon the earth, for this requires that we rise above the law of moral gravitation and bring to our everyday living the high wisdom of God. And since this wisdom is contrary to that of the world, conflict is bound to result. This, however, is a small price to pay for the inestimable privilege of following Christ. ~ A.W. Tozer

Weekend Quote

Hold loosely all that is not eternal. ~ Angus Maude Royden

DDaily Word

I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. “By the mercies of God” is to love the poor and needy, and support those who cannot support themselves in a sinful world. The doctrines of Grace in Chap. 3-11 leads to a life motivated by gratitude. Jew and Gentile now belong together as the people of God for whom the final blood sacrifice has been made. The sacrifice that remains is that of thankful response by presenting our bodies as a living sacrifice. “Bodies” means whole persons as embodied individuals. Spiritual worship is the worship that is appropriate for redeemed creatures to offer. How much more time and effort do you put into presenting yourself to those here in this world then you do in presenting yourself before God?

Daily Word

Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgments and how inscrutable his ways! “For who has known the mind of the Lord, or who has been his counselor?” “Or who has given a gift to him that he might be repaid?” For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be the glory forever, Amen. Romans 11:33-36 The words of Isa. 40:13 teach that no human being knows the mind of the Lord apart from revelation, and no one can serve as God’s adviser. Likewise the majestic words of Job 41:11 are a reminder that no one ultimately gives anything to God, instead, everything humans have is a gift from God. Today be reminded that everything you have, even the very next breath you take is a gift from God…the creator of heaven and earth.

Daily Word

For just as you were at one time disobedient to God but now have received mercy because of their disobedience, so they to have now been disobedient in order that by the mercy shown to you they also may now receive mercy. For God has consigned all to disobedience, that he may have mercy on all. Romans 11:30-31. Salvation history is structured to feature God’s great mercy. God saved the Gentiles when one would only expect the Jews to be saved, but in the future He will amaze all by His grace again by saving the Jews, so that it will be clear that everyone’s salvation is by mercy alone. The final now in this text does not mean the promise to the Jews in now fulfilled but that the promise of Jewish salvation could be filled anytime. The disobedience of the Jew leads to God’s mercy reaching the Gentile; the mercy of God to the Gentiles leads to the reception of mercy to the Jews. There is no difference…All have sinned, and God has mercy on both. What does “mercy” mean to you exactly, and how does your understanding of it impact your relationship with Christ on a daily basis?

Daily Word

As regards the gospel, they are enemies of God for your sake. But as regards to election, they are beloved for the sake of their forefathers. For the gifts and the calling of God are irrevocable. Romans 11:28-29. The unbelief of Israel has benefited the Gentiles, as this is the period of history in which Gentiles are being saved, while most of Israel remains in unbelief. But God’s electing Promise given to their forefathers Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob will be fulfilled in the future. Israel will be saved because God never revokes His saving promises. “Gifts” means thing freely given by God, and the word can be used to refer to different kinds of gifts. Sometimes the word refers to spiritual gifts for ministry and sometimes to the gift of salvation, but the context here favors yet a third kind of “gifts,” namely, the unique blessings given to Israel which Paul mentioned at the beginning of this long section. “Calling”( same root word in GK) for “election” refers here to calling to salvation. The process of Christian conversion, involving illumination, regeneration, and the transformation of the will. It is a sovereign work of God performed by the power of the Holy Spirit. Today meditate on the depth of your conversion and recognize it is much more than a simple prayer!

Daily Post

And in this way all Israel will be saved, as it is written, “The Deliverer will come from Zion, he will banish ungodliness from Jacob”; “and this will be my covenant with them when I take away their sins. “ Romans 11:26-27. A critical expression at this point in Paul’s argument, and one whose meaning is much debated ( All Israel). It could mean “all (spiritual) Israel,” that is, all elect persons both Jew and Gentile. Alternately, it may mean “all” Israel in the sense of “all Jews destined to be saved throughout history.” Or, as suggested above, it may point to a time of mass conversion among Jewish people.” When I take away their sins,” The salvation of Israel fits with God’s covenantal promise to save his people and forgive their sins. God has always been a God of Grace...be it over sin, disobedience, or unbelief His Grace is sufficient for you! Spend a few moments pondering His Grace over your life…

Daily Word

Lest you be wise in your own sight, I want you to understand this mystery, brothers: a partial hardening has come upon Israel, until the fullness of the Gentiles has come in. Romans 11:25. Paul discloses a mystery to the Gentiles to prevent them from being proud. The “mystery” does not necessarily refer to something puzzling or difficult to grasp, but to something that was previously hidden and is now revealed. The mystery has three elements: 1) at this time in salvation history the majority of Israel has been hardened; 2) during this same time the full number of Gentiles is being saved; and 3) God will do a new work in the future in which he will save all “Israel.” As we go through this book of Romans…Do you see the importance of understanding the riches of biblical history that is foundational to who you are in Christ today?

Daily Word

And even they, if they do not continue in their unbelief, will be grafted in, for God has the power to graft them in again. For if you were cut from what is by nature a wild olive tree, and grafted, contrary to nature, into a cultivated olive tree, how much more will these, the natural branches, be grafted back into their own olive tree. Romans 11:23-24. The cutting off of Israel is because of their unbelief, and not because the Gentiles were inherently better qualified for life in the olive tree. Moreover, the Gentiles believers should never forget that the gospel came to the Jews first. Has unbelief or lack of commitment hindered the process of your being fully grafted into the body of Christ or are you living your life fully grafted unto His body for His glory?

Daily Word

For if God did not spare the natural branches, neither will He spare you. Note then the kindness and the severity of God: severity toward those who have fallen, but God’s kindness to you, provided you continue in His kindness. Otherwise you to will be cut off. Romans 11: 21-22. The Gentile readers must contemplate God’s kindness and severity. His severity has been the portion of the Jews who have not believed, but His kindness has been poured out on the Gentiles. Still , they must persevere in the faith. Other wise they to will be judged as unbelievers. We as Christians should thank God for our conversion, look to Him to keep us in His grace, and wait with confidence for His final triumph, according to His plan.

Daily Word

Do not be arrogant toward the branches. If you are, remember it is not you who support the root, but the root supports you. Then you will say, “Branches were broken off so that I may be grafted in.” That is true. They were broken off because of their unbelief, but you stand fast through faith. So do not become proud, but fear. Romans 11:18-20. Gentile believers are warned against arrogance, for its God’s saving promises (root), not their goodness, that saved them. Thus Gentiles might be tempted with pride because God removed the Jewish branches from the olive tree and grafted them in instead. But this should provoke fear and awe, for the Jews were removed because they failed to believe and the Gentiles remain only because of their continued trust. Meditate on this for a few moments…How would your life change today if you could be cut off because of “unbelief”? Just because we claim to be Christian, and attend church once a week does not mean we BELIEVE; does arrogance play any part in your walk with Christ?

Daily Word

But if some of the branches were broken off, and you, although a wild olive shoot, were grafted in among the others and now share in nourishing root of the olive tree, do not be arrogant toward the branches. Paul refers back to OT When Jeremiah speaking to the men of Judea and the inhabitants of Jerusalem. He reminded them that the Lord had once referred to them as a “green olive tree, beautiful with good fruit.” Hosea made reference to this as well in Hos. 14:6. The illustration of the root and branches will be elaborated on more in the next few verses. The people of God are portrayed here as the olive tree. When Paul says some branches are removed, he probably has in mind the majority of the Jews in his day. Gentiles as wild shoots were grafted into the olive tree and now share in the root (promises made to the patriarchs). Today meditate on the fact that you to have been grafted in to the body of Christ. Your nourishment comes directly from the root (JESUS). Are you strong enough to maintain and grow with the other branches or are you allowing the disease of life to weaken you becoming the branch that looks like it needs to be trimmed?

Weekend Quote

Prayer for today: Lord, how excellent are your ways, and how devious and dark are the ways of man. Show us how to die, that we may rise again to newness of life. Rend the veil of our self-life from the top down as Thou didst rend the veil of the temple. We would draw near in full assurance of faith. We would dwell with Thee in daily experience here on this earth so that we may be accustomed to the glory when we enter Thy heaven to dwell with Thee there. In Jesus’ name. Amen. (Taken from A.W. Tozer)

Weekend Quote

My Prayer for today: O God, I have tasted thy goodness, and it has both satisfied me and made me thirsty for more. I am painfully conscious of my need of further grace. I am ashamed of my lack of desire. O God, the Triune God, I want to know thee; I long to filled with longing; I thirst to be made more thirsty still. In Jesus’ name. Amen. (Taken from ~ A.W. Tozer)

Daily Post

For if their rejection means the reconciliation of the world, what will their acceptance mean but life from the dead. If the dough offered as first fruits is holy, so is the whole lump, and if the root is holy, so are the branches. Romans 11:15-16. The Phrase “life from the dead” may simply denote unprecedented blessing. Although the wording is slightly different from Paul’s normal usage (resurrection from the dead), some take the phrase to refer to the general resurrection of the last day, understanding the conversion of the Jews to be an event of end times, an immediate herald of the final resurrection. Paul applies spiritually the principle that the first fruits serve as the pledge of the final harvest as explained in Numbers 15:17-21. Does your idea or understanding of “first fruits” extend beyond your tithe? Why or why not?

Daily Post

There is much to much to be thankful for that cannot possibly be contained in a single day of celebration. Today I will be surrounded by family, and enjoying great food and watching football (ALL DAY); thinking about all the incredible friends both near and far who bless me through out the year, I will celebrate in my heart as the Psalmist wrote in Psalm 100: Make a Joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth! Serve the Lord with gladness! Come into His presence with singing! Know that the Lord, He is God! It is He who made us and we are his; we are His people and the sheep of His pasture. Enter His gates with thanksgiving, and His courts with praise! Give thanks to Him and bless His name! For the Lord is good; His steadfast love endures forever, and His faithfulness to all generations! HAPPY THANKSGIVING to one and all...Hope your day is ABUNDANTLY BLESSED!

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Now I am speaking to you Gentiles. Inasmuch then as I am an apostle to the Gentiles, I magnify my ministry in order somehow to make my fellow Jews jealous, and thus save some of them. Romans 11 13-14. Why Paul singles out the Gentiles in the Roman church is made clear in latter verses (17-24). Paul had a special calling and commission to preach to the good news to the Gentiles. But he uses his ministry to the Gentiles also to benefit the Jews, for he hopes that the more Gentiles come to salvation, the more this will provoke the Jews to jealousy, so that they will be saved. I wonder If my relationship with Christ has ever exampled enough to others that it would provoke a jealousy for what they were missing without Him?

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Now if their trespass means riches for the world, and if their failure means riches for the Gentiles, how much more will their inclusion mean? Romans 11:12. In the context of Paul’s argument, “full incursion” here can only signify their reception of Christ and their restoration to God. The more difficult question is whether the term “full” points to full restoration of the remnant or to the restoration of the full number of the nation in some sense. The second seems to fit better the general direction of the passage. While this passage speaks of restoration to God for Gentiles and of Jew’s as a nation. Meditate for a moment on your own personal restoration to God…was your restoration to God “full restoration” or ‘ partial restoration”? How does your life in Christ demonstrate His restoration in your life to others around you?

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So I ask, did they stumble in order that they might fall? By no means! Rather through their trespass “salvation has come to the Gentiles, so as to make Israel jealous. Romans 11:11. Once again the form of Paul’s question anticipates (and receives) a negative answer. The Jews’ rejection of Christ is not irreversible. Paul sees a divine pattern and purpose behind the unbelief of which the Jews are guilty. The pattern of his thought in v. 11, therefore, is as follows: a) the transgression of the Jews has led to the justification of the Gentiles, b) the salvation of the Gentiles will cause the Jews to envy; c) the envy of the Jews’ will draw them to the same salvation as the Gentiles. God’s plan is as divine today in your life as it has been throughout the history of time. Trust God no matter what the circumstance you may be facing!

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To fall in love with God is the greatest of all romances! To seek Him is the greatest of all achievements! To find Him is the greatest human achievement! ~ Raphael Simon

Weekend Quote

God designed the human machine to run on Himself. He Himself is the fuel our spirits were designed to burn, or the food our spirits were designed to feed on. There is no other. ~ C. S. Lewis

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What then? Israel failed to obtain what it was seeking. The elect obtained it, but the rest were hardened, as it is written, “God gave them a spirit of stupor, eyes that would not see and ears that would not hear, down to this very day.” And David says, “Let their table become a snare and a trap, a stumbling block and a retribution for them; let their eyes be darkened so that they cannot see, and bend their backs forever.” Romans 11:7-10. The passages cited describe a biblical pattern of divine activity in the judicial hardening of hearts- a pattern Paul sees repeated in his own day. Paul then prays for judgment over the Jews of his day who have rejected Christ. I often wonder why it is that most Christians appear today to refuse to believe that One’s heart can be hardened. Perhaps it is that lack of belief or fear that allows compromise to be worn like a second skin?

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“Lord, they have killed your prophets, they have demolished your altars, and I alone am left, and they seek my life.” But What is God’s reply to him? “ I have kept myself seven thousand men who have not bowed the knee to Baal.” So too at the present time there is a remnant, chosen by grace. But if it is by grace, it is no longer on the basis of works; otherwise grace would no longer be grace. Romans 11:3-6. In Elijah’s time there was wholesale apostasy, and yet the presence of a remnant of the faithful indicated that God had not fully and finally rejected His people. Paul’s thinking about the remnant is rooted in the teaching of Isaiah, whose son Shear-jashub’s name means “a remnant shall return.” ELECTION and Grace are inseparable, for both show that salvation is God’s work alone, and that it has nothing to do with works. Today, remember that you were chosen by grace, and nothing you can do will earn you favor with God…you already have His favor…give Him PRAISE!

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I ask, then, has God rejected his people? By no means! For I myself am a Israelite, a descendant of Abraham, a member of the tribe of Benjamin. God has not rejected his people whom he foreknew. Do you not know what the scripture says of Elijah, how he appeals to God against Israel? Romans 11:1-2. The majority of Israel failed to believe. Does this mean that God has rejected his people? Paul presents himself as an example of the remnant that has been preserved, a remnant that indicates that God is not finished with Israel and that He will fulfill the promises made to His people. Foreknew reaches back to the OT, where the word “know” emphasizes God’s special choice of, or covenantal affection for, his people. The Bible is filled with the promises of God…Like many of Israel, what promise(s) are you failing to believe in God for?

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But I ask, did Israel not understand? First Moses says, “I will make you jealous of those who are not a nation; with a foolish nation I will make you angry.” Then Isaiah is so bold to say, “I have been found by those who did not seek me; I have shown myself to those who did not ask for me.” But of Israel he says, “ All day long I have held out my hands to a disobedient and contrary people. Romans 10:19-21. The failure of the Jews cannot be excused because they did not hear the message, or because they did not understand it. Moses and Isaiah contrast God’s own people with those who lack understanding, and with those who were not God-seekers but who were brought to know Him. The prophesy of Isa. 65:1 has been fulfilled in that the Gentiles who did not seek after God have now experienced God’s saving promises. Israel, on the other hand, has fulfilled the words of Isa. 65:2. They have rebelled against and disobeyed the gospel message. Still, God extends His hands to them, inviting them to be saved. On the other hand, God still longs for all to be saved. Though it may not seem impossible to understand how both these statements are true, the bible teaches both, and one should not use either truth to deny the other. Do you put in enough time in the Word to know why you believe what you believe, or do you simply follow hanging on to the coat tails of those who do?

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But I ask, have they not heard? Indeed they have, for “Their voice has gone out to all the earth, and their words to the end of the world.” Romans 10:18. The immediate context of the citation from Psalm 19:4 is that of God’s general revelation (Ps. 19:1-3). Paul’s use of it to prove from scripture that Israel has heard the message of God implies that his quotation of this section of the psalm carries with it the teaching of the entire psalm, which speaks of both general revelation in nature and special revelation in His word. The latter takes place in the context of the former. The underlying logic may be: if those without special revelation have “heard” the message of God’s glory in creation, how much more have those who received special revelation heard that message. The special revelation refers to the proclamation of the gospel message. Today, stand up, step up, and speak up…proclaim the gospel message to someone that needs to hear it in your circle of influence!

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How then will they call on him in whom they have not believed? And how are they to believe in him of whom they have never heard? And how are they to hear without someone preaching? And how are they to preach unless they are sent? As it is written, “How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the good news!” But they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Isaiah says, “Lord, who has believed what he has heard from us?” So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ. Romans 10:14-17. With a series of rhetorical questions, Paul considered the chain of events necessary for a person to be saved. Vs. 13 is linked to vs. 13 with the word “call”. The logic of these verses is clear: First, People will call on Jesus to save them only if they believe He can do so; Second, belief in Christ cannot exist without knowledge about Him; Third, one hears about Christ only when someone proclaims the saving message; Fourth, the message about Christ will not be proclaimed unless someone is sent by God to do so. That is why Paul was so urgent about spreading the gospel to the ends of the earth, for he believed that the only way to be saved was to hear and believe in the gospel. It is not enough to let your life demonstrate an example of Christianity to those around you. You must share the gospel with others. When was the last time you did so?

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For the scripture says, “everyone who believes in him will not be put to shame.” For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek; for the same Lord is Lord of all, bestowing his riches on all who call him. For everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” Romans 10:11-13. Paul again cites Isa. 28:16 to emphasize that trusting in Christ (not works righteousness) is the pathway to salvation. Shame here refers to the end time humiliation that those judged on the last day will experience when they are sent to hell. God bestows His saving riches on all, both Jews and Gentiles who call on Him. Paul goes on to quote from Joel 2:32…”Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.” We see here that the Lord is “Lord of all” meaning no respecter of man…but how is “Lord of all” applied in your life and daily walk?

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But what does it say? “The word is near you, in your mouth and in your heart” (that is, the word of faith that we proclaim); because if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes and is justified, and with the mouth one confesses and is saved. Romans 10:8-10. In the parallelism of vs.10 Paul reverses the order of verbs in vs.9 and thereby indicates that heart- belief and mouth confession belong together for justification (“righteousness’) and salvation. Saving faith is not mere intellectual agreement but deep inward trust in Christ at the core of one’s being. Many today confess to be Christian demonstrating a faith that appears to be “head-faith” lacking the depth to reach the heart. Do you trust Christ at the core of your being or have you simply settled for an intellectual agreement that has failed to travel any farther than “head-belief?”

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For Moses writes about the righteousness that is based on the law, that the person who does the commandments shall live by them. But righteousness based on faith says, “Do not say in your heart, who will ascend into heaven?” (that is, to bring Christ down) or “Who will descend into the abyss?” (that is to bring Christ up from the dead. But what does it say? ”The word is near you, in your mouth and in your heart” (that is, the word of faith that we proclaim). Romans 10:5-8. Paul quotes Lev.18:5 regarding the righteousness that is based on the law, to show that those who keep the law will attain life. But as Paul has already shown, life will not come in this way since all violate the law. Paul then quotes Deut. 30:12-14 to show the contrast between the righteousness based on faith and the righteousness based on the law. The righteousness based on faith reinterprets these OT statements and sees them now fulfilled in Christ. There is no need to travel to heaven to bring Christ to earth, for God has already sent Him into the world. Nor should anyone think they must bring Christ up from the realm of the dead, for God has raised Christ from the dead. What God requires is not superhuman works but faith in the gospel Paul preaches. Do you base your righteousness on the law and “works” or on faith?

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Brothers, my heart’s desire and prayer to God for them is that they may be saved. For I bear them witness that they have a zeal for God, but not according to knowledge. For, being ignorant of the righteousness of God, and seeking to establish their own, they did not submit to God’s righteousness. For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone who believes. Romans 10:1-4. A heartfelt appeal to the sympathy of his fellow Christians, the pathos of which is underlined by his recent reference to his relatives in the flesh. Paul’s concern in Chp 9 was with the salvation of the Jews, not merely with their role in redemptive history. He speaks here from personal experience, as to both the reality of the zeal and its wrong-headed and wrong-hearted character. Even in the context of the covenant God had made with them, they perverted His grace by seeing it as dependant on their own law keeping. The only hope you have of righteousness before God is complete submission in Christ. There is NOTHING else that you can do…period! On a scale of 1-10 where would you rate your submission unto Christ?

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What shall we say, then? That Gentiles who did not pursue righteousness have attained it, that is, a righteousness that is by faith; but that Israel who pursued a law that would lead to righteousness did not succeed in reaching that law. Romans 9:30-31. Having accounted for Jewish unbelief in terms of divine sovereignty, Paul now diagnoses it is due to a fatal prior commitment to a false way of righteousness. Divine sovereignty and the guilt of human willingness are for Paul two aspects of reality. By God’s grace and sovereignty, Gentiles who did not seek God’s righteousness have now received it faith through in Christ, but Israel as a people have failed to receive it because they sought it by legal means in which it could not be found. Christ has been to the Jews a stumbling stone over which they have fallen. There are many things we do today thinking that because of them we will look good or find greater acceptance in God’s eyes. What is it that has become a stumbling stone for you?