God always looks at the heart. Many people look at outward appearance and actions. While we show love to God by obeying Him, many put rules and commandments first. In Jesus’ day, the religious leaders did this so much that they created their own rules and laws and added them to God’s Laws, putting more of a burden on the people and used it for their own gain. It became more about rules and regulations instead of the goodness of one’s heart. Many religions, churches, and even families today seem to make things more about traditions and following rules than about character, relationships, and love.
Continue reading “From the Heart”Tag: Pharisees
Divisions and Hypocrisies
This parable talks to me about divisions in the church and in the country. It also talks about hypocrisy and the “unpardonable sin.” While Jesus was removing a demon from someone, the church leaders were quick to judge and criticize (as always) and did not discern the truth. By accrediting the work of the Holy Spirit to the devil, they committed the sin that Jesus said cannot be forgiven. Again, it just wasn’t the act, it was their evil hearts. In Jesus’ answer to the church leaders’ charge, He shows that a divided house cannot stand. I believe that is true in our church, in our families, and in our country. And if we are not careful, we are heading there fast.
Continue reading “Divisions and Hypocrisies”Come to Dinner
Jesus told a few different parables about someone inviting his friends to dinner. One was about those you would expect to go, but they made excuses, so others are invited. One was about a person’s pride who finds the best seats in the house until being humbled. One is about people making light of the wedding and even some being hostile towards those inviting them, and not being prepared for the wedding. So what is Jesus talking about in these three parables? Let’s discuss them.
Continue reading “Come to Dinner”Sheep
Sheep are not the brightest of animals and rely on their shepherd for everything. Jesus often referred to people as sheep, as His sheep. We often make stupid decisions and make dumb mistakes. We fall short. But we can (and should) always rely on Him. We need to trust Jesus, not only for our salvation, but in everything. He has given the Holy Spirit to those of us who believe to guide us. In every situation, we should pray. Ask God for guidance. Do as Jesus would do. Love others as Jesus loves us. But we are more to God than just dumb animals. We are all special to Him. Each one of us. Christ is our Good Shepherd and seeks to do what is best for us and to protect us from harm. He delights in each one of us.
Continue reading “Sheep”Born Again
Jesus taught using many parables or other analogies to get His point across. In this study series we will look at some of them. The first is a discussion with Nicodemus one night where Jesus teaches Him about true salvation, not through a parable, but He uses several analogies. This may be one of the most important and most well known scripture in the Bible.
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My Daily Scriptures 