28 April 2014; Mat 5
Matthew 5 to Matthew 7 is about Jesus preaching a sermon on the Mount - or in short Sermon on the Mount.
It started off with the beatitudes. What is beatitudes? Something beautiful? No accordingly the meaning of beatitudes is supreme blessings.
Who are the ones Jesus gave the blessings - the not so blessed in society in terms of material wealth, status or power.
Why then these people are bless? So is it better to have less of wealth, power and status? Have a poverty mind set?
The eight beatitudes is about being humble, being charitable and of brotherly love. It is about a quality and not about the quantity of wealth, power or status.
“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
“Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.
“Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.
“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.
“Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy.
“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.
“Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
“Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
(Matthew 5:3-12 ESV)
The first beatitudes are in v3. The poor - not rich, bent low, miserable, afflicted ... Not the blessings are not for these group of people but to those whose spirit are poor. To be of poor spirit - is a gesture of one bending low in the presence of God. It is acknowledging his poorness or poor condition in the presence of a rich God. These are the poor in spirit and they will inherit the kingdom of God.
The world ask for those who stand out in wealth, in power and in status. The kingdom of God ask for those who is able to come before God - poor.
How then I can be poor? Acknowledge that my God is rich and I have no lack. God is the master and I do not have to serve the worldly master. Is it not easier to achieve poor than to achieve richness?
God open my heart as I serve you - as I begin to serve in the orphanage and serve the poor with Fion. I want to be able to serve you in church capacity too. Not for man but for you. The main mission is about the kingdom of God - about God and his people. Open up opportunities for me to speak and serve others - considering others poor than me and my spirit poorer than them.
Monday, April 28, 2014
Saturday, April 26, 2014
26 Apr 2014; Mat 4
26 Apr 2014; Mat 4
Mat 4 is about the temptation of Christ. But I am not dwelling on these. And very quickly, the 3 areas that we are easily tempted are:
a. Material needs - turn these stones to bread
b. Power - ability to command the angels that they will support Jesus if He was to fall
c. Status - the whole world will be His
From that time Jesus began to preach, saying, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.”
(Matthew 4:17 ESV)
Jesus began His ministry after 40 days and nights in the desert. Who prepared Him. He was not like Paul who was born to a priestly family. Where did Jesus studied his word.
Matthew did not answered these questions. Very quickly, the book of Matthew is about the birth of Jesus, His baptism and His temptation. Only Luke 2 mentioned briefly about how he discussed religious teaching during a visit to the temple and Jesus then grew in wisdom and in statue.
It strike me as we are never ready for the ministry - starts now. Not after you have read the bible nor after you have attend theological school.
As I reflect, it is not the amount of truths that I can get before ministry began. And ministry does not include teaching the words, it involves just serving God in whatever ways possible for us.
We are made to worship and to give glory to His name. It is therefore and where we are - the ability to give glory and be able to testify about Him.
As we keep close to God, He will be our guide. It is the intend of God that none shall perish and we are His mouthpiece - surely given the divine opportunity - God will speak to us - provide we avail ourselves.
Lord, began my ministry here and now.
Mat 4 is about the temptation of Christ. But I am not dwelling on these. And very quickly, the 3 areas that we are easily tempted are:
a. Material needs - turn these stones to bread
b. Power - ability to command the angels that they will support Jesus if He was to fall
c. Status - the whole world will be His
From that time Jesus began to preach, saying, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.”
(Matthew 4:17 ESV)
Jesus began His ministry after 40 days and nights in the desert. Who prepared Him. He was not like Paul who was born to a priestly family. Where did Jesus studied his word.
Matthew did not answered these questions. Very quickly, the book of Matthew is about the birth of Jesus, His baptism and His temptation. Only Luke 2 mentioned briefly about how he discussed religious teaching during a visit to the temple and Jesus then grew in wisdom and in statue.
It strike me as we are never ready for the ministry - starts now. Not after you have read the bible nor after you have attend theological school.
As I reflect, it is not the amount of truths that I can get before ministry began. And ministry does not include teaching the words, it involves just serving God in whatever ways possible for us.
We are made to worship and to give glory to His name. It is therefore and where we are - the ability to give glory and be able to testify about Him.
As we keep close to God, He will be our guide. It is the intend of God that none shall perish and we are His mouthpiece - surely given the divine opportunity - God will speak to us - provide we avail ourselves.
Lord, began my ministry here and now.
Wednesday, April 23, 2014
23 Apr 2014; Mat 3
23 Apr 2014; Mat 3
3 groups of people came to John for baptism:
the ordinary people
the religious leader and
Jesus
Did John baptize all 3 groups?
In a very obvious statement in Mat 3 - only the first and Jesus. The second group had a scolding.
Did the religious leadercome to be baptize or did they come to see what is John doing?
In a most likely case - the latter.
This is definitely a contrast and the question is which group do we fall into. The first group probably know God and a desire to know God better. The second group definitely know God but probably think that they did not need to know God better.
The knowledge puts one ahead or in the head, but how to let God know me - so much so that He know me and I know Him that I can hear Him.
How then to be able to hear from God? Be close. How? Communication. Spend time. But the religious leader also know God and spend time studying the word.
It is therefore not about knowing the truths but the application of truth.
It is then how we take the words and applied the truths.
3 groups of people came to John for baptism:
the ordinary people
the religious leader and
Jesus
Did John baptize all 3 groups?
In a very obvious statement in Mat 3 - only the first and Jesus. The second group had a scolding.
Did the religious leadercome to be baptize or did they come to see what is John doing?
In a most likely case - the latter.
This is definitely a contrast and the question is which group do we fall into. The first group probably know God and a desire to know God better. The second group definitely know God but probably think that they did not need to know God better.
The knowledge puts one ahead or in the head, but how to let God know me - so much so that He know me and I know Him that I can hear Him.
How then to be able to hear from God? Be close. How? Communication. Spend time. But the religious leader also know God and spend time studying the word.
It is therefore not about knowing the truths but the application of truth.
It is then how we take the words and applied the truths.
Monday, April 21, 2014
21 Apr 2014; Mat 3
21 Apr 2014; Mat 3
As I read about John, the one who prepare the way for Jesus, his life, the way he dress and what he eats, he knows the kingdom living. He has no part of the world but focus on his focus - repent and be baptize for the kingdom of God is near.
Contentment in God is of great gain. What then this statement means? What and why should I be contented? I should be contented because the Lord has provided a job- a not so stressful job with a stable income. I should be this job as an income, a stable one while I prepare (just like John prepares) and gain a passive income. Instead, let go of the promotion, the grading, appointment and bonus. Be content.
I should be content - because the Lord has provided - the family has enough. It is me that has not enough because I have not enough and not contented.
John knows his focus - prepare the way for Jesus
and behold, a voice from heaven said, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.” (Matthew 3:17 ESV)
My job is then prepare the life in Christ and of kingdom living for my family, my kids, my sons and daughter.
As such, Lord, let the joy leaves out a life that Christ can shine through that truly show content, show the joy in Christ and show the acknowledgement that my Lord has indeed able and has and will provide for my family.
That the day will come and I can say to my kids - These are my children, whom I am well pleased - because they knew God and the glory of God continues...
As I read about John, the one who prepare the way for Jesus, his life, the way he dress and what he eats, he knows the kingdom living. He has no part of the world but focus on his focus - repent and be baptize for the kingdom of God is near.
Contentment in God is of great gain. What then this statement means? What and why should I be contented? I should be contented because the Lord has provided a job- a not so stressful job with a stable income. I should be this job as an income, a stable one while I prepare (just like John prepares) and gain a passive income. Instead, let go of the promotion, the grading, appointment and bonus. Be content.
I should be content - because the Lord has provided - the family has enough. It is me that has not enough because I have not enough and not contented.
John knows his focus - prepare the way for Jesus
and behold, a voice from heaven said, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.” (Matthew 3:17 ESV)
My job is then prepare the life in Christ and of kingdom living for my family, my kids, my sons and daughter.
As such, Lord, let the joy leaves out a life that Christ can shine through that truly show content, show the joy in Christ and show the acknowledgement that my Lord has indeed able and has and will provide for my family.
That the day will come and I can say to my kids - These are my children, whom I am well pleased - because they knew God and the glory of God continues...
Tuesday, April 15, 2014
15 Apr 2014; Mat 2
15 Apr 2014; Mat 2
A life guided and guarded by angels
In this chapter of Matthew, the mentioned of angels is 3 and warning though dreams 2 times.
Jesus is God intended salvation to mankind - and it is Satan attempt to stop it. regardless of the people involved - believer or non believers - God sent his angels and through dreams interfered and ensure the safety of Jesus. Even an army of Herod cannot put a stop because God knew all things before hand.
Therefore with God we have the preemptive of being known what the end will be like. It is like a father who knew that if his child were to continue climbing up the ladder, he will fall.
As I reflect on this chapter, it is a life in obedience. But why is God silent - no angels and no dream appear to me? Have I dwell in His presence enough? I am still troubled by promotion and a pity of a need for self actualization. Can I set in my heart that the climb in the corporate is over? You are in retirement. Spend a life no longer chasing after the recognition of the world, but an intimacy with God. Spend the time with my love ones - for you have and will provide. Don't you have enough - O my soul....
God intervene, God saves - because Jesus is the purpose for mankind. What mine? What in store in my life is for God?
I have only questions - because if I do continue to see the values of the world, my priorities will never set right. God help me and help me to overcome. Break in so that I have a break through...
A life guided and guarded by angels
In this chapter of Matthew, the mentioned of angels is 3 and warning though dreams 2 times.
Jesus is God intended salvation to mankind - and it is Satan attempt to stop it. regardless of the people involved - believer or non believers - God sent his angels and through dreams interfered and ensure the safety of Jesus. Even an army of Herod cannot put a stop because God knew all things before hand.
Therefore with God we have the preemptive of being known what the end will be like. It is like a father who knew that if his child were to continue climbing up the ladder, he will fall.
As I reflect on this chapter, it is a life in obedience. But why is God silent - no angels and no dream appear to me? Have I dwell in His presence enough? I am still troubled by promotion and a pity of a need for self actualization. Can I set in my heart that the climb in the corporate is over? You are in retirement. Spend a life no longer chasing after the recognition of the world, but an intimacy with God. Spend the time with my love ones - for you have and will provide. Don't you have enough - O my soul....
God intervene, God saves - because Jesus is the purpose for mankind. What mine? What in store in my life is for God?
I have only questions - because if I do continue to see the values of the world, my priorities will never set right. God help me and help me to overcome. Break in so that I have a break through...
Monday, April 14, 2014
14 Apri 2014; Isa 1
14 Apr 2014; Isa 1
The vision of Isaiah the son of Amoz, which he saw concerning Judah and Jerusalem in the days of Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah, kings of Judah. (Isaiah 1:1 ESV)
What is this book about?
Isaiah is about the vision - likewise it is about how we should perceive life - in the sight of God. A way to see life. We live in ways of life based on impression and knowledge - Isaiah is then about another dimension of how life should be perceived.
Open our eyes that we may see - not just appearance and the reality of life. A perception according to the book of Isaiah based on the prophetic vision - a dealing with God. A prophetic insight to realize that we have to deal with God. A life with God first - rather than the things of the world.
Be ready to adjust and see things through God sight.
Who is this book written and for who was it written?
Isaiah means "the Lord saves". Who is this Lord that saves? Does He matters? In this book of Isaiah - who is God trying to save - Judah and Jerusalem. And when it comes to the new testament - Jesus points to us - the salt of the earth, the church - we. That it is us that the Lord saves through the Church. The Lord saves beginning with us. It is therefore trusting God that saves and not the things of this world.
When was it written?
It was during when the kingdom of Israel was annexed by the enemies and the southern kingdom of Judah remains. It was during the kings that has a mix dependent on God as well as themselves. The book of Isaiah therefore goes through the very feeling of us - balancing between God and the world.
The book of Isaiah is a journey book of how we cast a vision for ourselves and how the balance of in the world and with God - lives our life. the purpose is the ultimate of salvation for mankind. It is therefore how we take this mandate and translate it into a heartbeat for our lives. the book of Isaiah goes through 4 generations of kings - a symbol that we have a choice to take the type of decisions - a decision on how we see God kingdom, how we perceive the kingdom of God and His purpose as well as how we walk a balance life both in the world and in God.
The vision of Isaiah the son of Amoz, which he saw concerning Judah and Jerusalem in the days of Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah, kings of Judah. (Isaiah 1:1 ESV)
What is this book about?
Isaiah is about the vision - likewise it is about how we should perceive life - in the sight of God. A way to see life. We live in ways of life based on impression and knowledge - Isaiah is then about another dimension of how life should be perceived.
Open our eyes that we may see - not just appearance and the reality of life. A perception according to the book of Isaiah based on the prophetic vision - a dealing with God. A prophetic insight to realize that we have to deal with God. A life with God first - rather than the things of the world.
Be ready to adjust and see things through God sight.
Who is this book written and for who was it written?
Isaiah means "the Lord saves". Who is this Lord that saves? Does He matters? In this book of Isaiah - who is God trying to save - Judah and Jerusalem. And when it comes to the new testament - Jesus points to us - the salt of the earth, the church - we. That it is us that the Lord saves through the Church. The Lord saves beginning with us. It is therefore trusting God that saves and not the things of this world.
When was it written?
It was during when the kingdom of Israel was annexed by the enemies and the southern kingdom of Judah remains. It was during the kings that has a mix dependent on God as well as themselves. The book of Isaiah therefore goes through the very feeling of us - balancing between God and the world.
The book of Isaiah is a journey book of how we cast a vision for ourselves and how the balance of in the world and with God - lives our life. the purpose is the ultimate of salvation for mankind. It is therefore how we take this mandate and translate it into a heartbeat for our lives. the book of Isaiah goes through 4 generations of kings - a symbol that we have a choice to take the type of decisions - a decision on how we see God kingdom, how we perceive the kingdom of God and His purpose as well as how we walk a balance life both in the world and in God.
14 Apr 2014; Mat 1
14 Apr 2014; Mat 1
I went to read about the debate about the contradictions between Mat 1 and Luke 3 about who Joseph's father was.
Not so much of an argument for the sake of argument, but an understanding that if the bible is true, there should be an explanation for the differences in record.
From the readings, it gives me an understanding of the Jewish culture - that a woman has links is with her father before marriage and her husband after marriage.
It points to Joseph. An angel appears before him. What is an angel? As young children, we see drawings of angels- and this is because some artist drawn them and give us an impression of what an angel should look like - bright, shinny, halo, wings....
But after a 400 years of silent from the book of Malachi with no prophets to speak to the people, of all the sudden an angel appear before Joseph - not a prophet, a seer or a priest.
Joseph response was a wonderful response:
When Joseph woke from sleep, he did as the angel of the Lord commanded him: he took his wife, but knew her not until she had given birth to a son. And he called his name Jesus. (Matthew 1:24-25 ESV)
Was it a dream? But he act in accordance to what the vision in the dream said he should do. What convicts Joseph?
The word from Isaiah.
“Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel” (which means, God with us). (Matthew 1:23 ESV)
Joseph backed his conviction from the words of God. He recognized that Mary is that virgin.
In the same way, the words of the Lord has spoken, but what are the verse that we take hold of, the promises that we are sure of (believe in) that the God will fulfill?
Is there a word, a promise that you know it holds and it is true because it is when the rubber meets the road - we can hold on to.
One verse from Isa 54:1 - sing you barren woman - sing. To me first where is my singing and why am I not singing? The barren woman sing because she is going to have a child, or at least she knows that she can rejoice in the Lord because due to her lack, God can do others miracle.
I am also holding to the verse Isa 40:31
but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.
Isaiah is a book that holds the promises of God - that I am convicted as well as the promises. I still place the hope of reviving "The Isaiah Initiative". A passion and a hope in God.
I went to read about the debate about the contradictions between Mat 1 and Luke 3 about who Joseph's father was.
Not so much of an argument for the sake of argument, but an understanding that if the bible is true, there should be an explanation for the differences in record.
From the readings, it gives me an understanding of the Jewish culture - that a woman has links is with her father before marriage and her husband after marriage.
It points to Joseph. An angel appears before him. What is an angel? As young children, we see drawings of angels- and this is because some artist drawn them and give us an impression of what an angel should look like - bright, shinny, halo, wings....
But after a 400 years of silent from the book of Malachi with no prophets to speak to the people, of all the sudden an angel appear before Joseph - not a prophet, a seer or a priest.
Joseph response was a wonderful response:
When Joseph woke from sleep, he did as the angel of the Lord commanded him: he took his wife, but knew her not until she had given birth to a son. And he called his name Jesus. (Matthew 1:24-25 ESV)
Was it a dream? But he act in accordance to what the vision in the dream said he should do. What convicts Joseph?
The word from Isaiah.
“Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel” (which means, God with us). (Matthew 1:23 ESV)
Joseph backed his conviction from the words of God. He recognized that Mary is that virgin.
In the same way, the words of the Lord has spoken, but what are the verse that we take hold of, the promises that we are sure of (believe in) that the God will fulfill?
Is there a word, a promise that you know it holds and it is true because it is when the rubber meets the road - we can hold on to.
One verse from Isa 54:1 - sing you barren woman - sing. To me first where is my singing and why am I not singing? The barren woman sing because she is going to have a child, or at least she knows that she can rejoice in the Lord because due to her lack, God can do others miracle.
I am also holding to the verse Isa 40:31
but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.
Isaiah is a book that holds the promises of God - that I am convicted as well as the promises. I still place the hope of reviving "The Isaiah Initiative". A passion and a hope in God.
Friday, April 11, 2014
11 April 2014; Mat 1
11 April 2014; Mat 1
After Revelation, I will begin with Matthew.
Matthew 1-17 is about the genealogy of Jesus Christ. the purpose is none other than to show the reader that Jesus Christ is trace all the ways to Abraham.
In doing so, God reveal that Jesus is the promised Savior from the very seed of the Jewish forefather.
My surname is unique. In fact, most of those who has the same surname are my uncles. It may seem meaningless to find out who they are, how are they related to me or what so in finding out how they are linked to one family. My uncle in Hougang is mostly the one who has the link and the knowledge in who is who and how the family comes from Santou to Singapore.
I am interested in family tree because it allows me to identified who I am, how my father comes to Singapore and why he came here. What happen then and what has happen back at his birthplace. He don't even know when his birthday.
I don't come by coincidence. Just like Christ don't just come from anyone but from the seed of David. Identify is about association. And association is about knowing the allegiance we are in, and why we pledge this allegiance to. It is a yearn to find out , because I am who I am because of the decision made then my father and the circumstance he is then in.
Well, forget about my family genealogy, what's the point...
As for Christ, it is important for the Jew to associate with Christ. As gentile, it is important to know that the Chirst is a Jew and the Jewish people are God chosen people. Bless them and you will be bless, curse them and you will be curse.
In Matthew, Jesus comes from the line of David-Solomon. In total 4 women are mention - Tamar, Rahah, Ruth and the wife of Uzziah. Each of them has a story in history.
In the same way, it will be nice to find out who and what they did - for my family line.....
After Revelation, I will begin with Matthew.
Matthew 1-17 is about the genealogy of Jesus Christ. the purpose is none other than to show the reader that Jesus Christ is trace all the ways to Abraham.
In doing so, God reveal that Jesus is the promised Savior from the very seed of the Jewish forefather.
My surname is unique. In fact, most of those who has the same surname are my uncles. It may seem meaningless to find out who they are, how are they related to me or what so in finding out how they are linked to one family. My uncle in Hougang is mostly the one who has the link and the knowledge in who is who and how the family comes from Santou to Singapore.
I am interested in family tree because it allows me to identified who I am, how my father comes to Singapore and why he came here. What happen then and what has happen back at his birthplace. He don't even know when his birthday.
I don't come by coincidence. Just like Christ don't just come from anyone but from the seed of David. Identify is about association. And association is about knowing the allegiance we are in, and why we pledge this allegiance to. It is a yearn to find out , because I am who I am because of the decision made then my father and the circumstance he is then in.
Well, forget about my family genealogy, what's the point...
As for Christ, it is important for the Jew to associate with Christ. As gentile, it is important to know that the Chirst is a Jew and the Jewish people are God chosen people. Bless them and you will be bless, curse them and you will be curse.
In Matthew, Jesus comes from the line of David-Solomon. In total 4 women are mention - Tamar, Rahah, Ruth and the wife of Uzziah. Each of them has a story in history.
In the same way, it will be nice to find out who and what they did - for my family line.....
Thursday, April 10, 2014
10 Apr 2014; An end to sin
10 Apr 2014; An end to sin
Finally, I finished the book of revelation. The end is sure - a good promise for the Christian. The urgency is not to be taken for granted - live the world as if it is the last hour and the last minute - then is is a rush to repentance if all sin and evil doers will surely die is known to all. No one will then treat as if there is a tomorrow to repent and today to play.
There are works to do - not the world works, but the worthy and Godly works.
The new Jerusalem is a city 3000km in size and it is definitely seen by all and desire by all to at least go in and take a look. It is good to dwell in there - a city without Satan. But it need some works to be done.
Outside are the dogs and sorcerers and the sexually immoral and murderers and idolaters, and everyone who loves and practices falsehood. (Revelation 22:15 ESV)
There are still people who sin - and without Satan's deception, temptation, ....
Don't play play - keep the words and wash your robes. I can imagine the world outside the new Jerusalem and the world inside. Besides choosing between heaven and hell for non Christian. Christian may have to choose the later of where to stay.
Serious... What end do I choose.... If the world is so pleasurable, heaven has no place for us and the new Jerusalem has no accommodation for us. Then suffering, hurts, fighting, covetousness, sexually immorality... will continue.
We have to take stand and choose - do not treat sin too causal, the world too lightly, but work on our salvation and towards the eternal works in the Godly kingdom.
Finally, I finished the book of revelation. The end is sure - a good promise for the Christian. The urgency is not to be taken for granted - live the world as if it is the last hour and the last minute - then is is a rush to repentance if all sin and evil doers will surely die is known to all. No one will then treat as if there is a tomorrow to repent and today to play.
There are works to do - not the world works, but the worthy and Godly works.
The new Jerusalem is a city 3000km in size and it is definitely seen by all and desire by all to at least go in and take a look. It is good to dwell in there - a city without Satan. But it need some works to be done.
Outside are the dogs and sorcerers and the sexually immoral and murderers and idolaters, and everyone who loves and practices falsehood. (Revelation 22:15 ESV)
There are still people who sin - and without Satan's deception, temptation, ....
Don't play play - keep the words and wash your robes. I can imagine the world outside the new Jerusalem and the world inside. Besides choosing between heaven and hell for non Christian. Christian may have to choose the later of where to stay.
Serious... What end do I choose.... If the world is so pleasurable, heaven has no place for us and the new Jerusalem has no accommodation for us. Then suffering, hurts, fighting, covetousness, sexually immorality... will continue.
We have to take stand and choose - do not treat sin too causal, the world too lightly, but work on our salvation and towards the eternal works in the Godly kingdom.
Tuesday, April 08, 2014
8 Apr 2014; Rev 22
8 Apr 2014; Rev 22
Rev 22 does not stop at v5 that they will reign forever and ever. It is therefore not to say that once we received our salvation, we wait for the second coming so that we will reign forever and ever with Christ.
“And behold, I am coming soon. Blessed is the one who keeps the words of the prophecy of this book.” (Revelation 22:7 ESV)
The word is "keep" - that is what is made known, we have a job to do, keep the words. How then to keep the words - do nothing? In this context - No. We keep the words by working on the words. Words give truths, but it is not truths that set us free, it is the practice of truths. I have been commented - that I know about the words, the truth, but knowledge puff up, it is the practice that brings about a transformation.
Blessed are those who wash their robes, so that they may have the right to the tree of life and that they may enter the city by the gates. (Revelation 22:14 ESV)
Our robes get dirty each day, we are in the world. We fall, we get up, we fall we get up. But when we get up, wash the robes so that we may have the right to the tree of life.
We have the promises - no other God promise how the end will be like and none is like - and they lived happily ever after - the end"
I am the Alpha and the Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the end.” (Revelation 22:13 ESV)
But till now - we are told not to sit back and relax. We know how the end is like - we as Christian are told to keep the words and wash our robes. And in the earlier chapter, the are souls that will be lost. We as Christian has a job to do. Do what the end dictates and not not what the world dictate.
Run the last lap of your life - pour it out for Christ.
Rev 22 does not stop at v5 that they will reign forever and ever. It is therefore not to say that once we received our salvation, we wait for the second coming so that we will reign forever and ever with Christ.
“And behold, I am coming soon. Blessed is the one who keeps the words of the prophecy of this book.” (Revelation 22:7 ESV)
The word is "keep" - that is what is made known, we have a job to do, keep the words. How then to keep the words - do nothing? In this context - No. We keep the words by working on the words. Words give truths, but it is not truths that set us free, it is the practice of truths. I have been commented - that I know about the words, the truth, but knowledge puff up, it is the practice that brings about a transformation.
Blessed are those who wash their robes, so that they may have the right to the tree of life and that they may enter the city by the gates. (Revelation 22:14 ESV)
Our robes get dirty each day, we are in the world. We fall, we get up, we fall we get up. But when we get up, wash the robes so that we may have the right to the tree of life.
We have the promises - no other God promise how the end will be like and none is like - and they lived happily ever after - the end"
I am the Alpha and the Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the end.” (Revelation 22:13 ESV)
But till now - we are told not to sit back and relax. We know how the end is like - we as Christian are told to keep the words and wash our robes. And in the earlier chapter, the are souls that will be lost. We as Christian has a job to do. Do what the end dictates and not not what the world dictate.
Run the last lap of your life - pour it out for Christ.
Monday, April 07, 2014
7 Apr 2014; Rev 21
7 Apr 2014; Rev 21
The new Jerusalem mentioned in Rev 21 is 1830miles or almost 3000km in length and width and height!
A great city that span 3 times the length of West Malaysia, a city named as the bride of the Lamb. Who is then the bride of the Lamb - the church. The new Jerusalem is the church - a city big big enough for all who served God. In it there is no temple - because God is with us. In the city there is no need for light - because God is the light. John is lost for words when he see the vision of the city.
Start with the end in mind. Can I treat the job as an extra to my income for my retirement? I have been dwelling on this subject - as I reach the age I set that I should retire. Can I relax - take away the stress - also the money, also the responsibility - the status, the power...
Can the answer be a YES? In the setting of the new Jerusalem - the center of focus is God, there is no evil, no Satan, enough for everyone and there is no need to struggle - therefore if the end is to serve God - then it should be NOW. Start with the end in mind!
So easy said than done - is it because of the world that is so attached to me... As the term starts, I wonder that the time to settle the kids, the family, the forex, the TWAG, how to settle down... I have not and have not know why my weekly time table cannot be settled. Also time for exercise!
Lord, help me to adjust - prioritize the time during lunch to spend time with you. Keep my mind daily in Christ and the pursuit of His kingdom.
The new Jerusalem mentioned in Rev 21 is 1830miles or almost 3000km in length and width and height!
A great city that span 3 times the length of West Malaysia, a city named as the bride of the Lamb. Who is then the bride of the Lamb - the church. The new Jerusalem is the church - a city big big enough for all who served God. In it there is no temple - because God is with us. In the city there is no need for light - because God is the light. John is lost for words when he see the vision of the city.
Start with the end in mind. Can I treat the job as an extra to my income for my retirement? I have been dwelling on this subject - as I reach the age I set that I should retire. Can I relax - take away the stress - also the money, also the responsibility - the status, the power...
Can the answer be a YES? In the setting of the new Jerusalem - the center of focus is God, there is no evil, no Satan, enough for everyone and there is no need to struggle - therefore if the end is to serve God - then it should be NOW. Start with the end in mind!
So easy said than done - is it because of the world that is so attached to me... As the term starts, I wonder that the time to settle the kids, the family, the forex, the TWAG, how to settle down... I have not and have not know why my weekly time table cannot be settled. Also time for exercise!
Lord, help me to adjust - prioritize the time during lunch to spend time with you. Keep my mind daily in Christ and the pursuit of His kingdom.
Friday, April 04, 2014
4 Apr 2014; Rev 21
4 Apr 2014; Rev 21
Rev 21 speaks about the new Jerusalem. With Satan, the beast and the false prophet (one is, the other one has yet to come and one who will come for a while Rev 17:10) are gone.
Rev 21 present 2 side of the world. The world we are in now with Satan and his guys around. Persecution, affliction, deception, material delusion, pain and suffering...
The other world that will come - a miss out on all evils. There is no need for seas (evaporation, condensation, cloud formation and rain) because God will give water to those who thirst.
And he said to me, “It is done! I am the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end. To the thirsty I will give from the spring of the water of life without payment. (Revelation 21:6 ESV)
There is no need for the sun and moon, because God is the light. He will be with man. He will make all things new.
And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be his people, and God himself will be with them as their God. He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.” (Revelation 21:3-4 ESV)
How then is our response? No use to struggling out and make a name for yourself? No power status, power, material wealth...
If that is so, the world has made us too comfortable for the world that is coming and we want to stay in this old world. It is because we have the comfort of our wealth, our status and our power.
But to those, who suffer, the less fortunate, they long for the new world. No wonder Jesus said, the pure, the children can easily accept the kingdom of God.
What is my stand and response? The old world will not last - invest in time the things for the new world.
Rev 21 speaks about the new Jerusalem. With Satan, the beast and the false prophet (one is, the other one has yet to come and one who will come for a while Rev 17:10) are gone.
Rev 21 present 2 side of the world. The world we are in now with Satan and his guys around. Persecution, affliction, deception, material delusion, pain and suffering...
The other world that will come - a miss out on all evils. There is no need for seas (evaporation, condensation, cloud formation and rain) because God will give water to those who thirst.
And he said to me, “It is done! I am the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end. To the thirsty I will give from the spring of the water of life without payment. (Revelation 21:6 ESV)
There is no need for the sun and moon, because God is the light. He will be with man. He will make all things new.
And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be his people, and God himself will be with them as their God. He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.” (Revelation 21:3-4 ESV)
How then is our response? No use to struggling out and make a name for yourself? No power status, power, material wealth...
If that is so, the world has made us too comfortable for the world that is coming and we want to stay in this old world. It is because we have the comfort of our wealth, our status and our power.
But to those, who suffer, the less fortunate, they long for the new world. No wonder Jesus said, the pure, the children can easily accept the kingdom of God.
What is my stand and response? The old world will not last - invest in time the things for the new world.
Wednesday, April 02, 2014
2 Apr 2014; Rev 20
2 Apr 2014; Rev 20
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And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne, and books were opened. Then another book was opened, which is the book of life. And the dead were judged by what was written in the books, according to what they had done.
(Revelation 20:12 ESV)
And if anyone's name was not found written in the book of life, he was thrown into the lake of fire. (Revelation 20:15 ESV)
There are 2 kind of book(s). The first is the book of life mentioned in Rev 20:15, which Rev 20:12 referred to "another book was opened".
In Rev 20:12 the dead were judged by what was written in the books - plural.
Therefore this is what Phil 2: 12 Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling,
We are saved by grace - and therefore not thrown into the lake of fire. But all will still be judge - judged by they had done - deeds.
We received grace of salvation but it is not a permission for treating casually with sins. Revelation did not mentioned how the judgement is melted out according to deeds. But it is something we should be mindful of.
Revelation explained the cause and effect that it is not justified for one to keep on sinning even when we had Christ. It also justified the fairness of God - when one accept Christ at the last moment before death. The deeds we had done is further judged.
In simple terms - as Christian - fear and revered the Lord, stop sinning and pursuit the deeds of the kingdom. For those who has yet to know Christ - tell them earlier and with urgency for we do not when is the end and "it is good" to have some time left in our life to work out the "salvation".
Tuesday, April 01, 2014
1 Apr 2014; Where your money is, is where your heart
1 Apr 2014; Where your money is, is where your heart
Look at one's account and see where the money goes to, you will know where the heart is.
It is about giving - giving back to the Lord. I must say, I have not done so, especially with a willing heart to the Church.
But regardless, a portion of what I received has to be given back. Back to where - for the extension of God's kingdom. Another is for God's temple (Exodus 35:20-29) and yet another is to the Levitate (the full time workers).
Give out of a willing heart - pray and ask God who to give. From first to first of each month, the difference in your bank account is your earnings. Give a portion of it - give away. Lord help me.
Look at one's account and see where the money goes to, you will know where the heart is.
It is about giving - giving back to the Lord. I must say, I have not done so, especially with a willing heart to the Church.
But regardless, a portion of what I received has to be given back. Back to where - for the extension of God's kingdom. Another is for God's temple (Exodus 35:20-29) and yet another is to the Levitate (the full time workers).
Give out of a willing heart - pray and ask God who to give. From first to first of each month, the difference in your bank account is your earnings. Give a portion of it - give away. Lord help me.
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