FAREWELL TO MOSES AND COMMISSIONING OF JOSHUA (DEUTERONOMY 31:1-8)

                It is always a difficult thing to speak when you want to say farewell to your friends and family. I have seen and witness people crying when they are about to leave their loved ones for a   while. I saw someone who was so excited to go abroad when following up her visa, but while at the airport, she burst into tiers because she was leaving the ones she loved so much. It is never a happy day when we leave our friends. Welcomes are always the happy events

MOSES IS HANDING OVER          

Our text makes us know that Moses’ life  was getting to an end, so his ministry with the Israelites was ending for someone to take over .two reasons  made it that, Moses could not lead the people to Canaan

   1)      Moses was 120 years old. Too old to enter Canaan with Israel because the coming years were to be years of war with the Canaanites. This Moses who had experienced spectacular events in the Egyptian palace right to the east banks of Jordan river, he now say he is too old to enter Canaan (vs 2a ). That is why we need to hand over to stronger and able people when we feel we can no longer do as we ought to. We need to hand over our power, our authority and even our ministry else what we started or were doing will never reach anywhere. If we want our work to endure for long we must prepare to hand over to others at the right time.

  2)      The second reason is that God had said to him “You will not go over the Jordan” (vs 2). God had banished Moses from crossing the Jordan because of his earlier sin at meribah (Numbers 20:8-12).    God asked Moses to take his staff and speak to the rock so that water will flow for the people to drink. But anger made Moses to disobey God. He was arrogant. Our arrogance may lead us away from God’s will. Being angry that the people have rebelled against God, Moses said. “Hear now, you rebels, must we bring forth water for you out of this rock?” (Numbers 20:10b).Then he smote the rock twice with his staff instead of speaking to the rock as the Lord commanded. Two problems:

  a-      The statement of Moses did not bring glory to God (must we bring forth water).It was not Moses and Aaron that provided water to the people. It was by God’s power, to whom they were to give credit. Must at times we are fun of usurping God’s Glory even as Christians or leaders. We make people think we are the ones doing it when it is God’s doing, hence we stop people from glorifying God for what He is doing.

  b-      God said because you did not believe me. Moses had faith, but why did God say he did not believe? Believe is always manifested in actions. Moses allowed his frustrations with the people to cloud his actions in relation to what God commanded. Let us be careful.  Frustrated leaders often act contrary to the will of God when the people do not obey according to the will of God. Note that the sin of leadership is when leaders behave in a sinful manner in order to keep the people from sin. Illus: (I was teaching our youths some day in church and I took some time to tell them what I had gone through before my conversion and I encourage them to have their salvation testimony. A young sister came to me and said Pastor I think you should not tell them that. Her reason was that if we share our salvation testimonies it’ll stop others from receiving Christ. For her we should always be telling others how we are holy. If we pretend and lie to others that we were always holy, in order to bring them to Christ we fall in this sin of leadership. You must speak the truth. That is God’s will. He does not want us to lie in order to win souls. Whether they accept what you say or not, if it is God’s will, it is the truth and must be spoken. It remains truth! I therefore encourage you leaders to stand for the truth no matter what. And to you Christians do not frustrate your leaders else you will also be held responsible for pushing them into sin or putting stumbling blocks for the men of God. Woe to him who causes a man of God to stumble.

JOSHUA IS TAKING OVER FROM MOSES (verse 7, 8)

This is like a graduation ceremony. Commissioning Joshua not only for Joshua’s benefit but for all the people. That is why it was a public event. It was there to encourage the people so that they will remember God’s promises. Moses made them know that God will go with them even in his absence. This was spoken to the Israelites and it applies to us today who are the spiritual Israelites. God will never leave us nor forsake us (Hebrews 13:5).

Moses commends Joshua to them for a leader; one whose wisdom, and courage, and affection they had long known; one whom God had appointed to be their leader; and therefore would own and bless.

Joshua is well pleased to be admonished by Moses to be strong and of good courage. Those who have God with them shall speed well; therefore they ought to be of good courage. Through God let us do courageously, for through him we shall do victoriously; if we resist the devil, he will flee from us.

But how can you resist the devil without Christ? I tell you that it will not be possible for anyone to resist the devil if he/she does not have Christ. It is the power of Christ in you that can help you resist the devil. It is Christ in you that you can overcome sin. It is Christ in you that you can overcome evil. That is when you will realize that you were naked while in your sins. You can read about the healing of the man who was possessed with legions of demons in Luke 8:26-38 and you will understand what may be happening to you. You can know if you are under Christ’s control or under Satan’s control. People can also see from your fruits.

You may be coming to church every Sunday, you may be coming to prayer meetings every meeting day and you still do not have Christ and so he will not be with you. You may be lifting up your hands with other Christians in church as they are called to lift up holy hands unto the Lord but you have evil spirit. Spirit of lies telling, spirit of fornication etc. You are in the wrong place, like the man who was possessed. He was supposed to be with people but he was always going to the tombs. What are you doing in a man’s house when you are not married to him? What are you doing with that lady when you are not married to her? That is your spiritual tomb! Though he was chained, no one could control him. You may be that type who says, no one can tell me what to do. No one can advise you and you listen. Then you are like this man with chains but not under control. You need Jesus right now. This man ran to Jesus, cried out and fell at his feet.. (lk 8:28) and he addressed Jesus as the son of the Most High God. He recognized Christ but he was possessed. At times you inflict pain on yourself and you cry latter, you wonder why you did those things you did. What is controlling you? You need Jesus.

When this man was healed by Jesus, he recognized that he was naked and so he was given clothes to wear (lk8:35). Women, why are our ladies dressed today with open breasts or open navel? Do they realize that they are naked? When Jesus will touch you, you will request for a dress to wear. You need Christ to be free. You need Christ to enter your promise land and when you must have received Christ then the statement to be courageous will now be your portion. And God will not leave you nor forsake you.

Then our farewells will not be painful but Joy because we shall meet again in the Kingdom of God.

THE QURAN SAYS JESUS IS SUPREME AND IS ALIVE: WHO DO YOU BELIEVE?

                Christians and Muslims believe in the infallibility of the original Bible manuscripts. But many followers of Islam think the translated versions of the Bible have undergone substantial changes in their versions. However, the Quran does not support this claim. In fact the Quran makes it clear that the Bible, known as Torah and the Injil, was found reliable in Muhammad’s time (sixth century). If the Bible is that reliable and the same speaks of Jesus as supreme and alive, why would someone believe in Muhammad who is dead and is not supreme?

1-The Quran notes that Jesus is “The greatest and most supreme in this world and beyond”

(AL-e-Omran-verse 45) i.e. { Quran chapter 3:45} “Behold ;the angels said; “O Mary! Allah giveth thee glad tidings of a word from Him: his name will be Christ Jesus, the son of Mary, held in honor in this world and hereafter, and of (the company of) those nearest to Allah”

                The Pickthal translation says “… whose name is the messiah, Jesus son of Mary…” The shakir says “… whose name is the messiah, Isa son of Mariam…”

                So Quran chapter 3 verse 45 says Jesus is the savior, the messiah who is supreme on earth and in heaven amongst those who are with God. Do you believe in Jesus who is the only savior of your life?  Or are you still doubting? If you are doubting, go back to the Quran and read chapter 10 verse 94-95.

2-The Quran states; “if you( Muslim ) have doubts about what I  (God) have revealed, ask Christians who have read the bible before you”

Quran 10:94: “If thou wert in doubt as to what we have revealed unto thee, then ask those who have been reading the book from before thee; the truth had indeed come to thee from the Lord; so be in no wise of those in doubt nor be of those who reject the signs of Allah, or thou shalt be of those who perish”(Jonah 94-95). Pickthal says “…question those who read the scripture   (that was) before thee…”  while Shakir says “…ask those who read the book before you…”.

Are you ready to go into the Bible to know the full truth about God and the savior Jesus? Do you know the Quran says the Bible (Injil) is guidance and light, and that it approves the truthfulness of the Torah?

3-Quran chapter 5 verse 46 “And we sent, the following in their footsteps, Jesus the son of Mary, confirming that which  came before him in the Torah; and we give him the gospel in which was guidance and light and confirming that which preceded it of the Torah as guidance and instruction for the righteous”.

4-The Quran says Jesus can give life. That he gave life to the dead. He created a bird from mud and he breath into it and it became a life bird (AL-maaedeh ie chapter 5 verse 110). Yes he did all these through God the father’s permission. The Quran also states that only God can bring life to a dead body (Iaasin chapter 36 verse 12) and later it point out that only Jesus has such a power.

5-Jesus is a complete image of God. If you see him, you have seen God. Quran says “He is the word (Quran chapter 3:45)”.The Bible says “the word was with God and the word became flesh and lived among us (John 1:1-14). Jesus himself said “I and my father are one” (Bible: John 10:30)

Unlike other prophets in the Quran who performed miracles Jesus himself was a miracle as he was born of a virgin mother and God describes him and his mother as such:

“…and we made her ( Mary) and her son (Jesus) a sign for the worlds” Quran 21:91

6- Quran says Jesus made many miracles which other prophets could not do. The Bible says he did so many things some which are not written (John 20:30,31 “Now Jesus did many other signs in the presence of the disciples, which are not written in this book;  but these are written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name.”). Quran 2:87 “And we gave unto Jesus, son of Mary, clear miracles”

- Quran 5:112-114 : Jesus prayed down a table of food from heaven for him and his disciples  to eat.

- Quran 3:46 : Jesus spoke to people while he was still in the cradle as a child.

- Quran 3:49 : Jesus created a life bird from mud.

- Quran 3:49 : Jesus heals the blind and the leper.

Quran 3:49 : Jesus raised the dead to life. The Bible also attest to Jesus raising the dead to life (Mathew 9:18,25)(mark 5:22,35)(Luke 7:11,14;8:40,49)

            The Quran says these miracles were a sign for them to believe (Quran 3:49).The Quran says Jesus did all these things by the will of God. The bible also says in Acts 2:22 that God made those miracles through Jesus.

7-The Quran also attests to the virgin birth of Jesus .Quran 19:20 “How can I have a boy while no man have touched me and I have not been unchaste?”

- Quran 16:12 “And [The example of] Mary, the daughter of Imran, who guarded her chastity, so we blew into [ her garment] through our angel , and she believed in the words of her lord and His scriptures and was of the devoutly obedient.

- Quran says Jesus is sinless and holy. He is perfect and sanctified. The angels said in Quran 19:19 “I am only the messenger of your lord to give you [news of] a pure boy”.

- Quran says Jesus is the only intercessor for mankind before God. Quran 19:87 “None will have [power of] intercession except he who had taken from the most merciful a covenant.

- Quran says only God can give life to creatures. Human beings cannot even create a fly. But Jesus breadth into a mud and created a bird. Quran 22:73 “O people, an example is presented so listen to it. Indeed, those you invoke besides Allah will never create [as much as] a fly, even if they gather together for that purpose. And if the fly should steal away from them a [tiny] thing they could not recover it from him. Weak are the pursuer and pursued”

CONCLUSION:

            The Muslims say Jesus is not God . They also believe Allah (God) never got married, so no son for Allah, hence Jesus is not the son God. But from the Quran as we have seen from above, Jesus is the greatest and supreme on earth and beyond. Moreover in this chapter 3:45, the Quran says Jesus is the word of God (kalimatullah). Just as in the Bible John chapter 1.The Quran also says in chapter 21:91 that Jesus is the spirit of God. “We breathed into her (Mary) from my spirit”. And in chapter 3:45 it also says Jesus is the Messiah, the Christ. If Jesus is the word of GOD, Logos and he is the spirit of God and the Messiah, what more can he be but to be God or Son of God?  How did God create the universe? The Bible and the Quran are unanimous that it is by the word of God. So the word is the creator of the universe and the word is Jesus Christ. So Jesus is the creator of the universe in the God head.

            The Quran notes that Jesus is alive with God in Quran 3:55(God said “O Jesus I am terminating your life, and raising you up to me and clearing you of those who disbelieve, until the day of resurrection. Then to me is your return; then I will judge between you regarding what you were disputing’’).But Muhammad died and was buried. He did not even know whether God will judge him worthy of His kingdom.

So only Jesus could give his followers promises of life on the day of resurrection.

·         Quran 4:158 “Rather, God raised him up to himself. God is mighty and wise.’’The Quran also attest that Jesus will come again on the day of resurrection. Quran 4:159 “There is none from the people of the scripture but will believe in him before his death, and in the day of resurrection he will be a witness against them”. The Quran notes that the second coming of Jesus will be a sign for the last days or judgment day (Quran 43:61).

      Muslims must therefore believe in the lord Jesus Christ as their creator. My dear  Muslim friends, Jesus is your God and you must confess him as your lord and savior to escape from hell. Jesus says in the Bible Mathew 7:13, 14 “Enter by the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. For the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few.” In John 14:6,7 He says “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. If you had known me, you would have known my Father also. From now on you do know him and have seen him’’.

Jesus is the perfect representation of God and we can only go to God through him. Jesus will come again to judge the world .Where will you be? Will you say I believe in Muhammad who died and was buried? Or that you believe in Jesus Christ the righteous who is exalted and is sited at the right hand of God? He is the only one who can intercede between man and God. Hebrews 1:3, 4 “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.”

      Come to Jesus and you will be saved!

Do not lose your faith in God’s promises

Bible Reading: Jan 10: Gen 25-26; Matt 8:1-17

God continuous with His promises to make Abraham father of many nations even through Keturah. Being well over one hundred years God surely helped him for his physically old body to implant his seed in Keturah’s womb as He did for him and Sarah. Abraham had six sons with Keturah. Isaac and Ishmael both joined in the burial of their father beside their mother in the cave of Machpelah. Surely in Abraham’s life he brought Ishmael and Isaac togetrher else, I don’t know how they’ll join in his burial. Notice that the children Abraham had with Keturah were disposed to his estate; each settled in a land as we see from the names. He set his house in order while he was living in prudence and justice, and that is wisdom. Abraham lived 175 years; but whether we live long or short, it matters but little, provided we leave behind us a testimony to the faithfulness and goodness of the Lord, and a good example to our families.

The genealogy of Ishmael were recorded for two reasons. Firstly God wanted the Israelites to know that He had fulfilled His promise to Hagar (Gen 16:12;21:18). Secondly, God wanted this to remind Israel that the nations that came from Ishmael were the descendants of Isaac’s half-brother. Notice that at the time of deliverance from Egypt, Palestine was encircled by nations from the preferential treatment Israel received from God, jealousy arose between Israel and the surrounding seed of Abraham through Hagar and Keturah. The jealousy which caused strife even to this day.

Rebekah was barren for 20 years as she married Isaac at 40 years and only gave birth when Isaac was 60 years old. God answered Isaac’s prayer for his wife’s barrenness (Gen 25:21.) The struggle in Rebekah’s womb was like reflecting what will happen to the two nations that will came from the two children. Gentle Isaac loved the strong son Esau while strong Rebekah loved the less aggressive son, Jacob. God’s preference for the chosen people of Israel was Jacob (Ro 9:10-13). Notice that Isaac spent his days in quietness though he was not much tried. Even Jacob and Esau were prayed for, the fulfilment of God’s promise is always sure, yet it is often slow. The faith of believers is tried, their patience exercised, and mercies long waited for are more welcomed when they come. Isaac and Jacob knew the promise was to come through them but they were patient and in prayer waiting for the Lord. 20 years after their marriage, God answered them. Why are you the way you are?

Esau lost his birthright for a dish of porridge. He considered his birthright less than the porridge, so he traded a nation with God’s blessing for a bowl of Soup. He was therefore disqualified from being the father of a nation through whom God would bring the Messiah into the world. What kind of hunger was this? I believe the two children knew about God’s promise to Abraham hence their father Isaac. Jacob valued this above all things, while unbelieving Esau despised it. What kind of appetite will cause you to lose such a blessing from God? Gratifying the sensual appetite ruins thousands of precious souls. When men’s hearts walk after their own eyes (Job 31:7), and when they serve their own bellies, they are sure to be punished.

Can anyone assume that Esau was dying of hunger in Isaac’s house? This was just profaneness (Heb 12:16). It is the greatest folly to part with our interest in God, and Christ, and heaven, for the riches, honors, and pleasures of this world. That is a bad bargain just as the one who sold his birth-right for a dish of porridge. After eating he went his way despising his birth-right. He had no regret of his poor bargain, no repentance, and that is what ruins many people today.

In chapter 26 God rehearsed His promised to Abraham to reassure Isaac during this famine that sent him to Gerar close to the pagan king Abimelech. God made him know that the promise was on the condition of Abaraham’s obedience so that Isaac will do same. Notice that this Abimelech is not the same that lived in Abraham’s day.

Isaac as his father deceived Abimelech again that Rebekah is his sister. Rebekah was his cousin and so could be considered his sister by the culture from where Rebekah came but Isaac knew Abimelech will not understand that and so their intention was to hide the fact that she was his wife because of fear. There is nothing in his denial of his wife to be imitated or even excused, because his father passed through the same temptations twice, so Isaac would have learned from the errors of his father. The new Abimelech acted rightly. The sins of professors (Christians) shame them before those that are not themselves religious.

God blessed Isaac so much that he became stronger in wealth and manpower than Abimelech. He was envied and they made him go out of the country. Wisdom from above make us know that we can give up our rights to avoid contentions. When we are wrongfully driven from one place, God will make room for us in another. Isaac continued to dig wells (Gen 26:17-25), but the philistines filled them in order to move him out of the territory. Instead of struggling he simply moved on. Isaac finally moved to Beersheba (Gen 21:30,31) where his father dug a well and God encouraged Isaac to stay and fear no more. When a man’s ways please the Lord, He will make even his enemies to be at peace with him (Prov 16:7). Abimelech took the initiative to establish a covenant with Isaac, knowing that he was much stronger than he (Gen 26:26-33). Isaac did not insist on the unkindness they had done him, but freely entered into friendship with them.

Esau went into a polygamous marriage to two Canaanites; strangers to the blessing of Abraham and subject to the curse of Noah. He rejected the moral standard of his fathers and followed the pagan nations. It grieved his parents because he married without their advice and consent; and to a people who had no religion. Marriage to an unbeliever is the signal that the believer is losing his or her faith. We can only lose our faith when we seize to seek the knowledge of God as Christ teaches in the Bible.

Matthew chapter 8 starts by indicating how the great crowd followed Jesus because they wanted to know him more. At this time of his ministry he wanted to teach the people; he was not looking for people to come only for healing reason why he told the leper not to tell anyone but show himself to the priest so that he can be declared clean and accepted among the people. I can imagine how the lepers who were discharged yesterday (World leprosy day) at the Mbingo Baptist Hospital felt going home to their people after being treated and healed.

Notice that the leper worshiped Jesus as one clothed with Divine power “Lord, if you are willing, you can make me clean”. Jesus does not only have power over bodily diseases, no guilt is greater than his blood that atones for it, no corruption is stronger than his grace which can subdue it. To be clean we must seek for his pity, not as a debt but as a favor. Those who have faith ask Christ for mercy and grace. Afflictions that cause us to know Christ and seek help and salvation from him are blessed.

The centurion who was a Roman military officer with 100 men came to Jesus. It is probable that the healing of the centurion’s servant in Luke 7:1-10 was different from the one recorded here. The centurion believed in the power of Jesus to reach beyond His presence. He also knew that a Jew would be considered ceremonially unclean for entering a Gentile house. He was a soldier yet he was a godly man. Your calling or place is no excuse for unbelief and sin. We can see how the soldier presents his servant’s case. We should be concerned for the souls of our children and servants, who are spiritually sick, who feel not spiritual evils or good; and we should bring them to Christ by faith and prayers. The soldier showed:

-       self-abasement: Humble souls become more humble by Christ’s gracious dealings with them.

-       Great faith: the centurion had faith that Jesus had Divine power over nature and all creatures as a master over his servants. We have to be servants like that to God; ready to go and come according to the directions of God’s word.

The servant got his cure and the master got the approval of his faith. Believe, and you shall receive; only believe. The healing of our souls is the effect and evidence of our interest in the blood of Christ.

Peter had a wife and yet was an apostle reason why Jesus healed his mother-in-law (Matt 8:14-15). So no one can deny the fact that Apostle Peter was married; and his wife’s mother was in his family. When people recover from fever they are still weak for some time but when Jesus healed this woman she went on doing her house work, which shows that it was a true miracle. Many are the diseases and calamities to which we are liable in the body; but the gospel says Jesus Christ bore our sicknesses and carried our sorrows (Is 53:4; 1Pet 2:24). He took away both physical infirmities and spiritual infirmities. Will you trust in him? I do.

Prayer: Great God, creator of the universe. Lord I worship you and trust in your word. Just like the singer, Lord I know you will provide at some time. It may not be my time Lord; and yet in your own time you will provide. Help me not to grow weary Lord. I trust in your time and the things you have planned for us Lord. I thank you for this opportunity you have given me. In Jesus name I pray. Amen

Before you seek a wife, talk with God first and seek His counsel

Bible Reading: Jan 9: Gen 23-24; Matt 7

Sarah died and the children of Heth were willing to offer a burial place free of charge to Abraham. Abraham would not allow this for the respect he has for his wife Sarah and his integrity. He purchased and took possession of the piece of land that was his for his own lifetime. Dominion is not founded in grace. The longest life must shortly come to a close. Blessed be God that there is a world where sin, death, vanity, and vexation cannot enter.

Abraham made Eliezer to swear that he will not take a wife for his son from the Canaanites. Eliezer’s mission was filled with the providential actions of God. Eliezer prayed at the well that God do the rest. He tested the servant nature of Rebekah which was revealed in that she drew water for Eliezer and all his camels. When Eliezer heard that she was from the house of Nahor, he immediately worshipped god for bringing to pass all that had transpired. So he knew his encounter with Rebekah was not a coincidence but work of God. Eliezer had his faith in God and remained alert to the work of God in his life reason why he prayed for his mission. Today most youths go out in search for a wife or husband without asking God’s counsel and they end up in marriages that were not God ordained. The event took place so fast for Rebekah’s relatives that they found it difficult to send Rebekah away though they knew it was the hand of God as Eliezer rehearsed his encounter. Isaac came from far south, the Negev as Rebekah came from the far north, land of Nahor and they met in the middle of the Promised Land.

To have servants like Eliezer with piety, faithfulness, prudence, and affection is a blessing from God just as to live in such a family. So we must highly value that and thankfully acknowledge God for that. Marriage is very important and must be done with much care and prudence, in reference to God’s will and with prayer for his direction and blessing. When the parents’ concern is not considered, do not expect God’s blessing. Parents should also consider the welfare of the souls of their children, and their furtherance in the way to heaven. Eliezer seeks God’s concern and also checks on the character as he tests. She should be simple, industrious, humble, cheerful, serviceable, and hospitable. Eliezer the servant of Abraham did not go to places of amusement and sinful pleasure to find a wife for his master. But he went to the well of water and prayed for God’s way in his mission. When Rebekah filled the pitcher, she came up to go home; she did not stand to gaze at the stranger and his camels, but minded her business. She only stopped to attend to the man who begged for help and so she could only do good by giving water to drink and drawing water for his camels. She did not enter into any curious discourse with him, but answered him modestly. When he knew about her family he thanked the Lord in Rebekah’s hearing. Abraham’s servant did not also linger around but faithful to his duty and so hurried to go back to his master with the wife. The parent of Rebekah also asked for the consent of Rebekah who decided to go at once. Isaac also went to a solitary place for meditation and prayer while Eliezer was on the mission. Holy souls love retirements if rightly employed. The two (Isaac and Rebekah) were affectionate to one another when they met. They were not hypocritical about their feelings for one another.

In Matthew chapter 7, Jesus teaches against the legalistic judging that was exercised by the Pharisees. Because of their self-righteousness, they were critical to others who did not agree with them on every point of their systematic theology. The problem was not who is right and who is wrong (Gal 6:1). We must always look at others with an attitude of love (Jn 7:24; Ro 2:1;14:3,4,10,13; 1Cor 4:3-5; Jms 4:11,12). We need to consider others with grace and generosity. Jesus says they should remove the beam from their own eyes so that they can see well to judge others. To correctly evaluate others, you must first recognize your own sinful state (Ro 2:21-23, Gal 6:1). You must live your life by the same standard by which you look at others.

In verse 6 of Mtt 7 he says “do not give what is holy to the dogs.” Ruthless and hard-hearted people cannot receive the precious truths of love and mercy. They will mock at you when you preach to them. In contrast to the self-righteous hearts of dogs who continually reject all righteousness, the humble heart must intensify their dependence on God by asking, seeking and knocking. God will provide (Mk 11:24;Lk 11:9-13;18:1-8; Jn 14:13;15:7). When you ask God will answer. How and when He answers is His choice and He will always give us good things not a stone or snake, though His answer may not be what we expect but they are his wise answers. God gives the Holy spirit to those who ask (Lk 11:13).

Jesus also teaches on the golden rule to do to others what you’ll want them to do to you (Lk 6:31). Few will enter the gate of heaven which is narrow because it requires humility, combined with suffering and persecution (Act 14:22). Many will enter the wide gate to condemnation since it is the way of indifference, self-righteousness, laziness and hypocrisy. So most people who live upon the face of the earth will choose not to obey God and will be lost.

Jesus now warns against false prophets who will mislead sincere seekers with their self-righteousness and legalistic religiosity. They come in sheep’s clothing because the religious community recognizes them, while their true nature show self-dependence and so do not seek the grace of God. You shall know them by their fruits because what they speak do not match their moral life (Mk 7:6-9). So false prophets are identified more by their behavior not by their teachings. It is the responsibility of Christians to judge the fruits of one’s teaching by the word of God. So those who legally seek God according to their works will not see the kingdom of God. They perform the right deeds, but their hearts were arrogant and self-righteous. So we must do the words of Christ by seeking the grace of God, and being careful that we do not depend on our own performance of the law and good works as the only condition for our salvation. We obey the words of Jesus because of God’s love (Ro 3:31; 1 Cor 15:10; 1Jn 4:19) not to justify ourselves before God. Jesus spoke with authority because he did not depend on the law or teachings of religious leaders. He was original and spoke like that because He was the son of God. He spoke as the son would speak with divine authority.

Prayer: Great lord, I thank you for your faithfulness. You never abandon us and you are always there when we seek you, you answer us when we ask you Lord. Holy Spirit of God, come and take your place at the throne of our hearts. Reign and lead us that we may not falter. Guide our young children even in their search for life partners that they will do it in the Lord. Teach the parents to seek the spiritual welfare of their children in every decision they make Lord. Have your way in our lives. In Jesus name I pray. Amen

Repentance and restitution brings restoration in our life

Bible Reading: Jan 8: Gen 20-22; Matt 6:19-34

Abraham had not learn a lesson from Egypt and now in Gerar he still announces that his wife Sarah is his sister. Abimelech the king of Gerar took Sarah again to make her his wife. I can imagine Sarah’s beauty at the age that was beyond child bearing that king Abimelech will still sort for her. Remember Sarah wondered if she will still have pleasure (Gen 18:11-12) and if Abraham will do same. When God’s love touches your marriage you’ll have pleasure all your life; and your beauty becomes unnatural. This time God came to Abimelech not to Abraham and kept him from touching Sarah hence save from God’s judgment. Abimelech did what a righteous man would do and restored Sarah to Abraham and a thousand pieces of silver. Sarah was rebuked in the sense that Abimelech said she should never be ashamed to state that Abraham was her husband.

Crooked policies will not prosper but it brings us and others into danger. Abimelech would have died of his sin but he pleaded ignorance. God’s mercy on him stoped him from commiting sin. Abimelech repented and made restitution to be saved from the curse. Abraham threw temptations in the way of others, caused them affliction and exposed Sarah and him to rebuke. They are written so that we should not copy. We should not condemn people as hypocrites just when they fall into sin, if they do not continue in it. Agreements to deceive end up in shame and sorrow. We see how Abraham the man of faith was rebuked with his wife. Let the impenitent take heed that they do not sin on, thinking that grace may abound.

Sarah conceived when the time came as God promised. No one could doubt that this was a miracle of God. So Isaac was born to continue the seed line of Abraham and the coming savior of the world. Ishmael started mocking at Isaac when he was weaned, so Sarah proposed that Abraham should send him and his mother away. God asked him to listen to his wife because the posterity of Abraham would be continued through Isaac, not Ishmael. In the desert when the water was gone Hagar was assured by God that she and the child would not die, for a great nation would come from Ishmael.

In chapter 21 Abimelech requested Abraham to swear to him. Perhaps he still remembered how he was previously deceived by Abraham in chapter 20. Isaac was like a type of Christ. He was born at the appointed time. Isaac brought laughter in their house. When the sun of comfort rises upon your soul, remember how you were in the dark. God does to us things we would not expect. When we deserve ill, He gives us comfort. Who would have said that God should sand His son to die for us, His spirit to make us holy, His angels to attend to us, or that such great sin be pardoned? God notices what children say and do in their play; and will reckon with them, if they say or do amiss, though their parents do not. Ishmael mocked Isaac and mocking is a sin which is provoking to God. This was the wound that they caused on themselves. There is a well of water beside Hagar and Ishmael in the desert but they are not aware till the God that opened their eyes to see their wound, opens them to see their remedy. Their wounds come from their misbehavior with Abraham and so will not stay to corrupt the promise seed.

In chapter 22 we hear that God tested Abraham. In some translations, there is an error which says he was tempted. God will not tempt Abraham so sin. In the Hebrew word it is nissah which means to test or put on trial. God does not tempt men to sin (James 1:13) So He was testing Abraham’s faith. Surely Abraham had no sleepless night because he left early in the morning to execute God’s command. Abraham told no one about what was transpiring. Though Abraham had no previous experience of resurrection, he trusted that God will resurrect the body he would put to death reason why he told the servants, “we will come again” (Gen 22:5; Heb 11:17-19). The son Isaac asked “where is the lamb” and Abraham answered “God will provide”. His faith moved him to the point of trusting that God will provide in the last minute. So he did for us in Jesus. God allowed this to the point where Abraham raised his arms with the knife to give a final blow to his only son’s life. I imagine the tension that was in Abraham and Isaac and what was going on in their minds. Then God’s word came “Do not lay your hand upon the lad”. He did not withhold his son, his only son from God and so god confirmed his faith. Moses wanted the Israelites to remember this as he wrote because there was going to be a time when an only son would be sacrificed for the sins of all humanity. It is by this work that Abraham was justified (James 2:21). Surely Satan was rejoicing in the pit of hell when god asked Abraham to terminate his son the seed line of the promise. But the promise remained “In your seed will all the nations of the earth be blessed” (Gen 12:3).

We can see the seriousness of this testing.

1.    God asked Abraham to take his son, not his lambs which he could have emptied all to God so easily. His son no his servant, the only son by Sarah and the son whom he loves.

2.    God tells him to go to a place that is 3 days journey so that Abraham will have time to consider and obey deliberately.

3.    Abraham was not only to kill his son, but to offer him as a burnt-offering. Can you imagine? That means he was to kill his son as a sacrifice, with all the solemn splendor and ceremony, with which he used to offer his burnt-offering.

But faith had taught Abraham not to argue but to obey. What God commands is good, and what God promises cannot be broken. Abraham knew this.

But as Abraham moves with his son, Isaac said “My father” (Gen 22:7). This word which could melt a heart will strike deeper in the heart of Abraham than his knife could in the heart of Isaac. But he waits for his son’s question. Abraham prophesied without knowing after the question. “My son, God will provide a lamb for a burnt-offering.” (Gen 22:8) Here the Holy spirit is predicting the lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world. Abraham did not says a lamb for the burnt-offering, but “for a burnt-offering”. Now God will not in any case have human sacrifices used. The sacrifice has already been provided through Christ and his death was our discharge.

This same Jesus teaches us to focus our heart in heaven for Which he bout us for our salvation. He asked us to put our treasures in heaven. By concentrating on the things that are above this earth, one places earthly things in their right perspective. The crown of heaven is waiting those who have forsaken earthly treasures (2 Tim 4:8). In verse 19 of Matthew 6 he contrasts physical things of the world with eternal, spiritual things that cannot be destroyed. If our view is focus on that which is good our life will be full of light. One cannot trust in his self-sufficiency of the things of the world and at the same time totally trust in God. A man may do some service to two masters, but he can devote himself to the service of only one. God requires the whole heart, and will not share it with the world.

He goes on to teach that we should not be worried about the things of this world. Life does not consist in the things we possess. Jesus makes it clear that anxiety or worries of the things of this world often ensnares the poor as much as the love of wealth does to the rich. The point is that one must trust in God, not in one’s own self-sufficiency. Do not think of it, not even the comforts of this life, but leave it to God to make it bitter or sweet as he pleases. As we must not boast of tomorrow, so we must not care for tomorrow, or the events of it. Thoughtfulness of our souls is the best cure of thoughtfulness for the world. Seek first the kingdom of God. God’s righteousness comes through our submission to His will. Seeking the kingdom of God, therefore, must always be first. God will take care of those who seek Him first.

When Jesus says do not worry, he is not condemning our planning for the future. He is encouraging us not to overly concern about the future. Worry works against faith (James 1:6). We must consider through faith that all things work together for good of those who love God (Ro 8:28). We must work by faith (2 Cor 5:17). The more we walk by faith, the less worry we have in our lives.

Prayer: Mighty and everlasting Father, I thank you for your word that is reminding us to put our mind focused on heavenly things that we may not fall. Thank you for reminding us that you care for us and will never forsake us. Holy Spirit, teach us to continuously seek God’s word and live by it for our transformation. Thank you Lord. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.

God shows mercy to those who seek, but if you think that you are standing firm, be careful lest you fall

Bible Reading: Jan 7: Gen 18-19; Matt 6:1-18

When Abraham saw the three men who visited him in the plains of Mamre, he immediately recognized that they were divine messengers, reason why he bowed himself toward the ground. When God told Abraham that in a year they’ll have a son Sarah laughed as she thought of her age and that of Abraham. For her and humanly speaking it was impossible, but with God, nothing is impossible. When men come to the point of human impossibility, God’s grace is manifested (Rom 9:6-13). The second reason why God came was to save Lot from the destruction of the wicked cities. Since Abraham and his descendants were chosen from the world to bring the messiah into the world, God revealed the destruction of the cities to Abraham. This was also to give Abraham the opportunity to intercede. His posterity would do righteousness and justice in conformity to God’s standard. This destruction was also an illustration of what god will do to those who rebel against His will (2 Pet 2:6; Jd 7). Abraham for lack of knowledge about the moral condition of Sodom and Gomorrah pleaded with God. God will spare the unrighteous for the sake of the righteous. But when the unrighteous no longer provide a safe dwelling for the righteous, then God brings judgment.

Notice that when Abraham was asked “where is Sarah your wife”, the answer was immediate. She was in the right place doing her duty; in the house preparing to attend to the visitors with food. Those ready to receive God’s comfort and promises are always in the proper places doing their duty, just like the shepherds who watch their flocks by night (lk 2:8). The laughter of Abraham and Sarah were different. Abraham’s laughter was that which came out of faith while that of Sarah from unbelief; that is why the one who sees the heart knew and rebuked Sarah. But whom the lord loves He will rebuke, convict, silence, and bring to repentance, if they sin before Him.

In chapter 19, we see that two of the visitors are now referred to as angels. Lot pleaded with them to stay in his house because he assumed they did not know the immoral situation of the city. Sodom and Gomorrah were not only immoral, but they were cities of crime and violence. The people of the city both young and old men surrounded Lot’s house before they go to bed. The degradation of the old was transferred to the young and we see no hope for moral regeneration. They wanted to have homosexual relations with the strangers. That is why for human posterity, sodomy is defined as illicit sexual promiscuity. Does giving his two daughters to these men make him sinless? I think no, but lot surely realized that these men were messengers from God, so he surely knew that violating messengers of God will bring eternal consequence to them, and so wickedness against his daughters would be mild for him. When they broke the door it was beyond Lot’s control, hence deity intervene and brought blindness to the perpetrators, causing confusion, and so the pronouncement of judgment was confirmed upon the city. Lot’s appeal to the sons-in-laws and relatives was rejected because they were caught up in the wickedness of the city. Lot did not still see the urgency until the angels drag him forcefully from the city. When a society digress to the moral level that characterizes Sodom and Gomorrah, it is time to take ones family and flee. It is better to live in the mountains than in the wickedness of Sodom. Zoar was saved because Lot pleaded and went with is family there, for fear that evil will befall him before he reaches the mountains. Note that other cities in the valley such as Siddin, Zeboim and Admaj (Gen 10:19;14:2,8, Dt 29:23, Hos 11:8) were also destroyed. Lot’s wife reaped the judgment of god when she looked back on Sodom.

At the great distance from Mamre, Abraham witnessed the great smoke from Sodom. After this Lot went to the mountains with his daughters. He surely have realized that even Zoar was plagued with wickedness. The two daughters who assumed they were the only survivors made a scheme and committed incest with their father who was a victim of his drunkenness. The outcome were children who became the Moabites and the Ammorites.

Lot who kept chaste in Sodom, mourning for the wickedness, and a witness against it, when in the mountains and thinking he was out of temptation was overtaken by it shamefully through his daughters. Let him who thinks he stands high, take heed lest he falls. Drunkenness let him to many sins and lasting wound and dishonor.

Our Lord in Matthew 6:1-18 continued teaching on the deeds of righteousness so that we may be steadfast and do not fall. We should not do good because we want people to see and praise us, but that we should have an inward principle so that we may be approved by God. When we give alms, we should be careful not to fall into subtle sin, vain-glory and so will not receive any reward God promises to those who do good. Jesus goes on to condemn hypocrisy in prayer; those who pray in public to be seen by men. He does not condemn public prayer but the motive. He now taught them how to pray. The Lord’s prayer is a model of several things to be mentioned in prayer. It’s not a word system that is to be repeated as a prayer (lk 11:1). He clearly says in Mt 6:9 “Therefore after this manner pray:” we pray to the Father (Ro 8:14-16) who is in heaven. You must hallow or reverence and honor the Father (Ex 20:7). The disciples were to pray that men accept the kingdom reign of Jesus in the sense that the will of the father be done on earth as it is done in heaven. The kingdom reign of Jesus had not yet come at this time (Mt 16:18,19). The kingdom reign is within one as he or she submits to the will of the Father (lk 17:20,21). The kingdom comes when the will of God is done in the hearts of men and women on earth as it is done in heaven. We must also have a spirit of forgiveness to be forgiven by God (Mt 6:14,15; 18:21-35; Mk 11:25,26; col 3:13; Jms 2:13). We should also pray that God should keep us from being tempted beyond that which we are able to bear (lk 21:36; Jn 17:15; 1Cor 10:13; 2 Thes 3:3; 2Tim 4:18); because God does not tempt man (Jms 1:13).

Now Jesus moves on again “when you fast,”. He did not say if you fast, because fasting is a practice of the disciples of Jesus; it is a natural response to those who recognize the Lordship of Jesus. In fasting one calls on God to respond to his pleas for help. It is abstinence from food or water in order to call on God to respond to one’s requests (Dt 9:17-19; 2Sam 12:16,21; Zech 8:19). In fasting one focuses his mind on spiritual needs of the inner man as to physical needs. It is not a command but what Christians do because of the absence of the bridegroom (Mt 9:14,15; Act 13:1-3). Jesus teaches that we should not fast to be seen by men. The purpose of fasting therefore is to inwardly humble oneself before God in his life (Mt 17:21; Mk 9:29; Lk 2:36,37; 1Cor 7:5; 2Cor 6:5;11:27)

Prayer: our Father in heaven, I worship you oh creator of the universe. Lord you showed your justice and mighty power in the judgment of Sodom and Gomorrah but you saved even lot because his heart was still with you. In your mercy, your son came and taught us how to live kingdom lives here on earth. Who is compared with you Lord? None. Help us to live according to your will in Jesus name. Amen 

More is expected of those whom God calls

Bible Reading: Jan 6: Gen 16-17; Matt 5:27-48

In this text we see Sarah, with the consent of Abraham, who sought to work out the fulfillment of the promise through their own ingenuity. Hagar became arrogant toward Sarah and she became bitter and abusive toward Hagar; so she dealt harshly with Hagar so that she will flee out of her own volition. When they took this decision, they did not ask counsel of the Lord; they forgot the almighty power of God. Passionate people at times lay blames on others, for things which they are to blame. Sarah gave her maid to Abraham, yet she cries out, my wrong be upon you. Hagar too had to bear her suffering patiently because she was the first to provoke her mistress (1 Pet 2:20). The Angel of the Lord told Hagar to return to Sarah after she fled, and also to submit to her. If she did that, her son Ishmael will make a great nation. Hagar obeyed and bravely return to the house of Abraham and submitted to her mistress, Sarah. Some people run from the Christian or God fearing homes into sin just like Hagar. The question she received from the angel could come from our conscience or by providence. “Where have you come? And where will you go?” Are you running from the blessing you received from Abraham’s home to the idol worship of Egypt? Knowing who we are and where we come may teach us our duty. Considering where we’ll go, discovers our danger and misery. Note the declaration of the angel; “I will,” shows this Angel was the eternal word and son of God. She returned and by her behavior softened Sarah, and received more gentle treatment from Sarah.

God now makes a covenant with Abraham, and his generations. The time limitation for the covenant was until the generations of Israel ended, which they did in Christ (Gal 3:26-29). So the “everlasting covenant” was “everlasting” only until its fulfillment. The covenant was terminated when it was fulfilled. So “everlasting” here does not mean “without end”; but to the time of existence until the intended point of completion. The same is true of the everlasting possession whose fulfillment was at its purpose of preserving Israel at the coming of the messiah. So is the completion of their right to the land. The sign (token) of this covenant was circumcision which Abraham and all who were in his house were to take. If one refused circumcision, he was cut off from the promises of the covenant (Ro 2:28,29). Even Ishmael was circumcised. The outward sign is for the visible church; the inward seal of the spirit which is known only by God, is peculiar to those whom God knows to be believers. When god steps into our lives He changes everything. He changed Abram to Abraham and Sarai to Sarah; as they received the promise. Abraham circumcised his house hold the same day. When you receive god’s command, there is no time to delay. Abraham showed great joy; he laughed when god gave him the promise because he was delighted, not of distrust. So Abraham rejoiced to see Christ’s day; now he saw it and was glad (John 8:56).Jesus said this to the Jews as he taught them.

In Mt 5:27, he also addressed the wrong interpretation of the Jews on adultery. The old Testament penalty for adultery was death by stoning (Lv 20:10; Dt 22:22-27). Jesus address the heart again. He does not condemn the look of admiration and affection, but the lustful look with the intent to commit an adulterous sexual act (Jb 31:1; Pv 6:25; Gal 5:16; 1Pet 2:11). He goes on to give vivid illustrations to control the lust of the flesh at all cost. Jesus also addressed them on marriage knowing that they are under a different covenant, but divorcing for many reasons as in the days of Moses. He says marriage to one who is unjustly put away by divorce is marriage to an adulterated person and it’s same for marriage with one with whom a marriage contract has been broken. He makes it clear that the only valid cause for divorce among those who are in covenant relationship with God is fornication.

Making oaths is for degenerate people who are dishonest and cannot keep their words. So he wants Christians to live such a character of life that whatever the Christian says should be understood as truth (James 5:12). If he makes promises, it should be assumed that he will keep his promise. Marriage vows are not oaths, but commitments or engagements. Swearing in courts of justice by God’s word or His name is not called for. Let your yes be yes, and your no be no. addressing the law of retaliation, Jesus made them know they have to suffer any injury that can be born, for the sake of peace, committing your concerns to the Lord’s keeping. Christians must avoid disputing and striving. About neighbors he says we must do all the real kindness we can to all, especially to their souls. Not only to neighbors as of Jewish concept; which was understood as country men, those of the nation and religion, whom they were pleased to look upon as their friends. We must pray for all and render good for evil. We must study to conform ourselves to the example of our heavenly Father (1 Pet 1:15,16).

Prayer: our heavenly Father, I thank you because you’ll never abandon me or leave me. You expect more from us, but you always accompany us so that we do not fall. Sustainer of my life, I worship you and pray that you make yourself known to those you have chosen that they may rejoice in being and living in your presence. Have your way in my life Lord. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen

God is faithful in His promises even through His promised son Jesus Christ

Bible Reading: Jan 5: Gen 13-15; Matt 5:1-26

We learn that Abraham was made very rich by God with livestock, gold and silver (Gen 13:2). But Canaan was just recovering from the drought and could not support the tremendous herds of Abraham and Lot, reason why there was strife between their herdsmen. As a man of God, Abraham did not want any strife between the two families as they were all brethrens. He did not choose where to go, but he allowed Lot his nephew to choose the best for himself. Lot chosed the best place for his animals (the plain of Jordan) but it was not the best for his family, because of the corruption in the cities of the plain. Even though Lot pitched his tents in the plains, away from the wicked of the city, we realize the next time that Lot is found in the heart of the city of Sodom; in a culture of wickedness. Why did he go close to wickedness, thinking his own will not be corrupted? When we get close to sin, we finally find ourselves in the heart of sin. No wonder the Bible tells us to flee from sin, be separate from them. I hear some youths who say we go to the night club just to relax; we do not do what others do there. Sooner, they are found in the heart of the evil activities. God renewed His promise to Abraham after Lot’s departure. God said, “Go forth from your country and from your relatives and from your father’s house to a land that I will show you (Gen 12:1). But Abraham left with his relative Lot. I see why God renewed His promise only when they separated. The promise was for Abraham not his relatives. Lot may be representing old habits, old life, the things we’ve been used to. We do not want to abandon them. Who is your Lot? What is your Lot, which you are not ready to let go? If you do not let it go, God will not enter with His promise in your life. Your Lot maybe anger, bitterness, jealousy, fornication, envy, etc. Are you willing to let go, or you prefer to tell them where to go for a while not for good?

You’ll notice that the Hebrew word for very rich is very heavy. In my dialect; Limbum it is also expressed in the same way. We’ll say “His pockets are heavy”. So riches are a burden; burden of care in getting riches, fear in keeping them, temptation in using them, guilt in abusing them, sorrow in losing them, and  burden of account at last to be given up about the riches. Yet God in His providence sometimes make good men rich men. When Abraham and Lot were wandering in poverty, nothing separated them, but when riches came, it did. Also bad servants often make a great deal of mischief in families, by their pride and passion, lying, slandering, and tale bearing. As this happened, Abraham gave Lot the choice though he was the elder and the great man, but he showed that he had the command of his passion, and could turn away wrath by a soft answer.

Now the fore kings of the north made an alliance and attacked Sodom, taking Lot and his own as captives too. Abraham raised up an army of 318 soldiers to rescue Lot. He takes this opportunity to proof his friendship to Lot though they had separated. We ought to be ready to succor those in distress, especially relations and friends. Though others may have been wanting in their duty to us, yet we must not neglect our duty to them. As we have opportunity, we must do good to all.

Melchizedek, King of Salem (Jerusalem), and priest of the Most high God who has no genealogy, but resembling the son of God came and broke bread and wine with Abraham. He blessed God from Abraham and blessed Abraham from God. We need to give thanks for other’s mercies as for our own. This is seen in Jesus, our great High priest who is mediator both of our prayers and praises. He not only offers up ours, but his own for us. Though Abraham gave a tenth to Melchizedek, he did not accept the goods from the king of Sodom though it was a right as Abraham was the winner of the war. So Abraham did not want any riches from the wicked Sodom, so that it’ll not be said that God’s promise for riches could not have come without the spoils of Sodom. People of God must, for their credit’s sake, take heed of doing anything that looks mean or mercenary or that looks self-seeking. Abraham can trust the God of heaven and earth to provide for him.

God knew that Abraham was afraid of the promise especially that the hurrian law at that time will allow him to give his inheritance but to Eliezer his servant. So God assured him of his safety. God gave Abraham an express promise of a son. God revealed the future to Abraham in a deep sleep:

1.    Abraham’s seed shall be strangers in a foreign land (400 years in Egypt). The heirs of heaven are strangers on earth.

2.    God will judge the enemies of Abraham’s seed. God will judge Egypt and also the Canaanites when their iniquity would have been complete (Gen 16:16). God may allow persecutors and oppressors to trample upon his people for a while, but He’ll surely reckon with them at last.

3.    God promises to deliver Abraham’s seed after they have been oppressed in Egypt.

4.    God also reveals the happy settlement in Canaan after all these.

God made a covenant with Abraham by sacrifice to seal His promise. He provided the smoking firepot and burning lamp over the pieces. God’s covenant with man is by sacrifice (Psalms 50:5); and we know He accepts it if He kindles in our souls pious and devout affection.

Jesus in Mattew chapter 5 now teaches us how to live the kingdom life that has come to us. The beatitudes here was taught on the mount. I think Luke’s account in luke 16:17-49 referred to as the sermon in the plain should be the same teaching in another location with another audience though that instance presents the same teaching of our Lord. It will be unlikely that Jesus will teach such important truth just in one instance. Jesus tells us about those who are blessed from verse 3 to 12 of matthew 5. He gives warnings and exhortations in verses 13-16 and about the law from verse 17, confronting the false traditional teachings at the time.

The poor in spirit are happy because only those who recognize their low condition can seek after a redeemer. The kingdom of grace and glory is for them. Happy are those who mourn, because godly sorrow works true repentance as they accept the mercy of God in Jesus, with constant seeking of the Holy Spirit to cleanse them from evil. They shall be comforted by their God. The meek are happy because when they mourn, they become mild, gentle, lowly and unselfish in character. Meekness promotes wealth, comfort and safety, even in this world so they will inherit the earth. Those who hunger and thirst for righteousness shall be satisfied from God by His grace. They seek knowledge of God through His word. The merciful are happy because those who recognize their own spiritual poverty are merciful to others, they relieve the suffering of others because of what God has done to them in relation to their sin. Their mercy will reap mercy from God (Mt 18:35, lk 6:37). The pure in heart will understand the pure nature of God (Hb11:27, Jn 14:9). They shall see God because heaven would not be happy to the impure. Those who recognize their own sinfulness will seek peace of mind with others (Pv 11:13,Gal 6:1;2 Tim 2:22-26), so peacemakers are sons of God as they portray the spirit of God in this. Happy are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake. Though there is nothing in our sufferings that can merit of God; God will provide that those who lose for Him, shall not lose by Him in the end. Rejoice because it’s the attitude of those who truly understand the inner nature of the Christian life.

Christians are like salt with their godly characters to preserve society from moral decay. Those who profess Christ, cannot remain graceless, else no other doctrine or means can make them profitable. Our light must shine so that our good works are seen by men. But what is between God and our souls, must be kept to ourselves; and that which is of itself open to the sight of men. We must aim at God’s glory.

Jesus notes that he came to fulfill the law. Fulfillment of the law meant the end of the law. He was not saying that the law was to continue, but to teach that the law would end when its purpose was fulfilled. The law was to end when the messiah comes (Col 2:14-16, Hb 10:9, Jer 31:31-33). Christ’s disciples cannot disobey the holy law of God, or teach disobedience of it regardless of who they are in society else they are not true disciples. Christ’s righteousness which is given to us by faith alone, is needed by all who enter the kingdom of grace or of glory, and this produces a thorough change in a man’s temper and conduct.

Jesus went on to correct the corrupt interpretation of the law by the teachers at his time. You will not murder (Ex 20:13, Dt 5:17) was corrupted by the people. While Ex 21:12 says the punishment is death, the Jewish religious leaders at Jesus’ day corrupted the application by saying they had to be brought to judgment. Jesus made them know how serious this is and make them know that all rash anger is heart murder and has to be punished by 3 stages: the judgment, the council, and finally the destruction of hell (Mt 10:28). So Jesus was seeking to correct the heart that causes the outward crimes. He makes it known that reconciling with one another is necessary before we can worship. We cannot worship the God of mercy and love by harboring a heart of hate that shows no mercy. We are unfit for communion with god in holy ordinances without reconciliation with others and God. While we are alive, we are in the way to his judgment-seat; after death, it will be too late. Jesus puts responsibility of reconciling on the shoulder of the offending party here. But in Mt 18:15-17,23-35 it is on the offended party (mt 6:14,15).

Prayer: Mighty and great God, I glorify your name for you are faithful in your promises. When you say you have blessed, no one can curse. When you say you have prospered no one can stop it Lord. Rekindle your word in our hearts that we may live the kingdom life here on earth as we prepare to meet you Father. How can we say we love you when we keep people in our hearts, we lack love for one another and we do evil in many forms. Father, I know we cannot do it on our own but by your grace. Help that we may stand and walk in your likeness, that this world may feel the salt and be preserve for your own glory Lord. Give us courage in times of discouragement and boldness when we are frightened. Father, your presence is sufficient in our lives. Thank you lord, for in Jesus name I pray. Amen