What is a tare anyways? Today the word is used as the measure of an empty container before weighing the substance of interest. In some ways this could be fitting. But, in biblical times, it is a type of young weed among grain that resembles the grain. It is an imposter. It is a weed that becomes more like a vine and wraps around the other plants and is hard to remove without hurting the grain plants. There are many people like that.
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Working in God’s Vineyard
Many are called to do God’s work. It might be something seemingly insignificant that may be behind the scenes or a small task or it might be something that will impact many others. Whatever work you do, do it as unto the Lord (because you are!) and do it wholeheartedly. If you are called to lead, be the shepherd God has called you to be and follow what the Holy Spirit tells you. Listen to godly advice. And leave pride out of it. And do not compare yourself to others. Again, let God be your guide. Let us remember that God is in control, not us. The leaders of Israel did not see it that way. When God sent someone to give a message, they would not listen. Pride got in their way. They wanted the power and prestige and didn’t want anyone to take that from them. Jesus told a couple parables that deals with the heart of those who are called to do God’s work.
Continue reading “Working in God’s Vineyard”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.
Continue reading “Born Again”Malachi: God’s Plan
In the previous post, we discussed God’s criticism to the people of Israel and how it relates to our attitude and obedience to God today. Malachi also talks about the hope that is to come. God has a plan. The New Testament is about God’s salvation plan, not only for the Jews but also for Gentiles. His love for us is so deep that He wants all people to be saved. His plan was to send Jesus, His one and only son, God in the flesh, to come to this earth as a sinless man and take all of our sins to the cross and die for us, to be the sacrifice for each of us, for all of our sins, once for all.
Continue reading “Malachi: God’s Plan”Zechariah: The Coming Messiah
This is part 2 of the messages from God through Zechariah. There are many prophesies of the coming Messiah, all of which either have been fulfilled by Jesus Christ or will be in His Second Coming. The previous post talked about Jesus as King and priest, the Branch, the Vine, the Root of David. This post we will discuss who Jesus is, God in the flesh and some of the events of His life here on earth foretold many years before.
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