Good Works

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JESUS SPEAKING

“If I do not do the works of my Father, do not believe Me, but if I do, though you do not believe Me, believe the works, that you may know and believe that the Father is in Me, and I in Him.” (John 10: 37 – 38)

INSPIRED THOUGHTS

Those who doubted that Jesus’ had been sent by God were urged to consider His works. He was accomplishing miracles, healing the sick, and even raising the dead. He exemplified compassion and selflessness. He showed kindness toward the weary and reached out to the outcasts and sinners. Many who heard His gospel message repented and were saved. In general, anyone who maintains a close personal relationship with God will outwardly manifest His qualities and character. Our good works reveal the presence of God within our hearts.

Anyone can claim to be a plumber. They can start a company, put an ad in the newspaper, buy the necessary equipment, and even book appointments. And yet, when the time comes to replace a faucet, fix a leak, or reroute some piping, those who lack the ability to accomplish these tasks aren’t real plumbers. Instead they are deceivers. Simply put, an individual’s actions are a reflection of who they truly are on the inside. Unlike words, actions do not lie.

Like Jesus, those who claim that God is their Father, will exemplify His nature and character in their lives. Thus God’s presence is manifest in the form of good works. Preaching the gospel, practicing selflessness, serving others, and loving what is pure and good are how we continue Christ’s work in this present time. If unbelievers can see God in our lives, then they will be drawn to Him.

“Lord Heavenly Father, we desire to accomplish Your will in this place. May we serve You in obedience, as we strive to accomplish good works in Your Holy Name. May others see our faith in action, and be compelled to accept salvation through Your Son. We seek to disappear so that You might live in our place. We love You Father, we praise You, and we thank You, and we ask and pray all of these things, according to Your will, in Jesus Christ’s name. Amen.” God bless all of you!

The Fear of God

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JESUS SPEAKING

“And I say to you, My friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body, and after that have no more that they can do. But I will show you whom you should fear; Fear Him who, after He has killed, has the power to cast into hell; yes, I say to you, fear Him.” (Luke 12: 4 – 8)

INSPIRED THOUGHTS

In this scripture, Jesus reveals that the fear of God is an essential component of genuine faith. Those who fear God’s wrath and the torments of hell are more inclined to obedience. In turn, no man should be more frightened of worldly persecution than eternal condemnation. Those who are facing affliction, imprisonment, or suffering for the sake of the gospel must keep the faith; standing firm in their affirmation of God’s truth.

There is a strange new heresy floating around in some modern day churches. These congregations are usually lukewarm and enjoy a form of Christianity that isn’t confrontational; thus permitting many to continue in sin without being confronted or convicted through sound doctrine. In turn, the leaders of these churches have crafted a new doctrine concerning ‘the fear of God.’ They are teaching members that the word ‘fear,’ doesn’t actually mean ‘fear,’ but rather, it means ‘a reverence,’ or a simple respect for God. Clearly throughout the bible this new interpretation isn’t substantiated. The fear of God and the love of God are inseparable.

The ‘fear of God’ is an active and integral aspect of Christian living. Additionally, the fear of hell and eternal punishment promotes repentance, salvation, and obedience to God’s will. God’s love is enduring, and his Spirit is precious; and yet, for those who have abandoned the faith, there is a coming judgement. May we chase after those who have not yet given their lives to Jesus Christ. That His kingdom might grow with every passing moment.

”Lord Heavenly Father, we yearn to please You in everything that we do. Increase our faith and our obedience to Your will. May we experience the type of fear that is inseparable from Your affection. Give us more of Your Holy Spirit, and continue to make us wise, willing, and honest, no matter the degree of persecution. We love You Father, we praise You, and we thank You, and we ask and pray all of these things, according to Your will, in Jesus Christ’s name. Amen.” God bless all of you!

Humble Messengers

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JESUS SPEAKING

”They love the best places at feasts, the best seats in the synagogues, greetings in the marketplaces, and to be called by men “Rabbi, Rabbi.” But you, do not be called ‘Rabbi’; for One is your Teacher, the Christ, and you are all brethren. Do not call anyone on earth father; for One is your Father, He who is in heaven. And do not be called teachers; for One is Your teacher, the Christ. But He who is greatest among you shall be your servant. And whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.” (Matthew 23: 6 – 12)

INSPIRED THOUGHTS

Many of the religious leaders were evil men who enjoyed their positions of authority. In turn, Jesus forbade His followers from referring to themselves as ‘Rabbis, Teachers, or Fathers.’ Accordingly, God is our only Father, and Jesus is our only Teacher/’Rabbi.’ As sons and students we are all equal. In presenting the gospel, our own words, thoughts, and emotions are irrelevant. The untainted words of Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit are paramount. When we choose to die, then the Lord will arise and speak through us.

As the story goes, when Abraham Bininger had reached adulthood, he was informed of the misery and degradation of the African slaves living on the Island of St. Thomas. He asked to be sent to them to preach the story of the cross. Upon arriving on the Island he learned that it was illegal for anyone other than a slave to preach to the slaves. In response, he wrote a letter to the Governor of the Island, asking to be enslaved for the rest of his life, provided he could give his leisure time to preaching to his fellow slaves. The Governor sent the letter to the King of Denmark, who was so touched by it that he sent out an edict empowering Abraham Bininger to tell the story of the Messiah whenever and wherever he chose—to both blacks and whites, bond or free.

Like Abraham Bininger, we too must be willing to sacrifice our lives to carry the message of the cross to those who live in ignorance. We aren’t distinguished and adored teachers, nor do we deserve the reverence and respect reserved for our honorable and all powerful Father. Instead, we are but humble carriers of the gospel. Jesus is our only Teacher, and God is our only Father. May we die to ourselves, so that Christ can rise up in our place (Note: The New Testament does include the gift of teaching; thus permitting the office of one given to teaching from God’s word.)

”Lord Heavenly Father, we recognize that Your Son Jesus is our only Teacher, and that we are all brothers. Also that You are our only Father; worthy of all honor, and reverence, and respect. May we lay down our lives in sacrifice, so that Your words and Your message might spread without resistance; devoid of selfish conceit. Fill us with Your Holy Spirit and grant us the strength to live in submission to Your will. We love You Father, we praise You, and we thank You, and we ask and pray all of these things, according to Your will, in Jesus Christ name. Amen.” God bless all of you!