Archives

Journaling through the Bible Chronologically in 2025, Day 325

Nov21

Day 325 – Reading – Acts 13-14

Read and believe in Jesus!

Acts 13 – 14

These two chapters tell of Paul’s first Missionary Journey.

Note the circumstances of his name change in 13:1-13.

In the Antioch church, there were five main prophets/teachers. Barnabas, Simeon (a black man), Lucius from Cyrene, Manaen (of Herod Antipas’s court), and Saul, the ex-persecutor of Christians. (Wow, what an eclectic group!)  A perfect combo to lead and grow the Gentile church at Antioch.

During one worship service, the Holy Spirit set apart Barnabas and Saul for missionary work. The group prayed and fasted, and then laid their hands on these two men to send them off.  Barnabas took along his young cousin, John Mark, even though the Holy Spirit did not call the young man. 

The Holy Spirit leading them, the men went down to the port of Seleucia and sailed to Cyprus, Barnabas’ homeland. 

In the town of Salamis, SAUL proclaimed the word of God in the synagogues of the JEWS.  When the men had visited synagogues throughout the island, they came to Paphos and happened upon a certain magician or sorcerer. He is described as “a Jewish false prophet named Bar-Jesus.”  It seems he may have been an adviser to the Roman Proconsul, Sergius Paulus. 

The Proconsul summoned Barnabas and Saul, because he wanted to hear the word of God. However, the sorcerer opposed them, seeking to turn Sergius away from the faith. 

SAUL, now called by his Roman name, PAUL, looked sternly at the man and proclaimed, “You son of the devil, you enemy of all righteousness, full of all deceit and villainy, will you not stop making crooked the straight paths of the Lord?  Now, the hand of the Lord is upon you, and you will be blind and unable to see the sun for a time.”

Immediately, darkness fell on the man, and he went around seeking people to lead him by the hand.

Then the Proconsul BELIEVED the message of salvation, being astonished at the teaching of the Lord.

.

Now Paul and his companions set sail from Paphos and came to Perga.  (Did you notice that now Paul is leading the group and not Barnabas?)  Also, this “missionary business” with all the travel, and maybe especially the cursing of sorcerers, was too “heavy” for the young John Mark, and he left the team at Perga and went home to Jerusalem. 

(This could be a warning that believers are to wait for the definite calling of the Lord in their lives before starting out. Jesus had told his followers to “count the cost.”)

.

From the port town of Perga, Paul and Barnabas went on to Antioch in Pisidia.  There, they attended a synagogue service. And as was the custom, after the reading of the scriptures, they were invited to give a “word of encouragement” for the people.  So Paul stood up and began … preaching.

He started with the history of Israel (like Stephan had).  The patriarchs, the time in Egypt, the wilderness wanderings, conquering the Promised Land, the time of the judges, the prophet Samuel, and the first king. He ended with King David, a man after God’s heart. THEN came the “main point.”   

“Of this man’s offspring God has brought to Israel a Savior, Jesus, as He promised.”  And then, “Brothers, sons of the family of Abraham, and those among you who fear God, to us has been sent the message of this savior/salvation.”

Paul goes on to describe that, although He was sinless, Pilate executed him. And this was according to the scriptures.  And how this Jesus rose from the dead on the third day, again according to the scriptures.

“And we bring you the Good News that what God promised to our fathers, this He has fulfilled to us, their children, by raising Jesus.”  “Let it be known to you, brothers, that through this man forgiveness of sins is proclaimed to you, and by Him, everyone who believes is freed from everything from which you could not be freed by the Law of Moses.”

Whoa, Paul!! 

But as they left the synagogue, the people begged that these things might be told them again the next Sabbath.  And after the meeting, the Jews and devout converts to Judaism followed Paul and Barnabas.

.

The next Sabbath, almost the whole city gathered to hear the word of the Lord. BUT… when the Jews saw the crowds… they were FILLED with jealousy and began to contradict what Paul said.

Paul enraged them more by saying, “It was necessary that the word of God be spoken to you FIRST.  But since you thrust it aside, you judge yourselves unworthy of eternal life.  Behold, we are turning to the Gentiles.”

At this, the Gentiles rejoiced and glorified the word of the Lord. As many as were appointed to eternal life believed.  And the Word spread through the whole region. 

BUT THE JEWS incited devout WOMEN of high standing, and the leading MEN of the city, who stirred up persecution against Paul and Barnabas and drove them out.  At the city line, the missionaries shook off the dust of the city of Antioch in Pisidia from their feet (as Jesus had instructed his apostles)  and went on to Iconium.  

And, the disciples were filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit.

.

Acts 14.

In Iconium, they again FIRST entered the synagogue and spoke “in such a way” that a great number of both Jews and Greeks believed.

But again, the unbelieving Jews stirred them up and poisoned their minds against the brothers.

However, Paul and Barnabas stayed there a long time, speaking boldly for the Lord, who granted them signs and wonders to be done by their hands. 

Eventually, the unbelieving Jews stirred up some people to attempt to stone the apostles.  They learned of it and fled to Lystra and Derbe, and the surrounding country. And … they continued to preach the Gospel.

.

Now at Lystra, a crippled man who had NEVER walked, listened to Paul speaking, and faith was built up in him.  Paul looked at him, seeing the faith, and said aloud, “Stand upright on your feet.”  The man, crippled from birth, sprang up and began walking! 

WHOA!

When the crowds saw this miracle, they immediately thought Paul and Barnabas were the Greek gods, Zeus and Hermes, come to visit them.  The priest of Zeus brought out garlands and oxen and wanted to offer sacrifices. 

Whoa! Whoa! Whoa! 

When Paul and Barnabas saw what they were about to do, they tore their garments and rushed out into the crowd, saying. “Men, why are you doing this? WE are men like you, and have brought the Good News that you should turn from these things to THE LIVING GOD, Creator of Heaven and Earth.”

But even with these words, they were scarcely able to restrain the people from offering sacrifices to them!

About then, the men from Antioch and Iconium came and persuaded the roused crowds to stone Paul.  They did!!!  And they dragged him out of the city as dead.

But, when the new believers gathered about him (did they pray?), Paul rose up and entered the city again.  (FEARLESS!)  

The next day, Paul and Barnabas went on to Derbe.  They preached the Gospel there and many were made disciples. 

Then the pair circled back through Lystra, Iconium, and Antioch of Pisidia, strengthening the new disciples, encouraging them to continue in the faith, and saying that, “Through many tribulations we must enter the kingdom of God.”  Paul also appointed elders for them in every church, with prayer and fasting.

Then the missionaries continued back through Pisidia, and to Pamphylia, and Perga.  There, they caught a boat back to the home church in Antioch, where they had been commissioned.

And, as missionaries do today, they gathered the church together and told them all that God had done with them, and how He had opened the door of faith to the Gentiles. 

Then they rested for a while.

.

 

Journaling through the Bible Chronologically in 2025, Days 320 & 321

Nov17

SUNDAY and MONDAY studies are posted together on Mondays

Day 320 – Reading – Acts 1 – 3

Day 321 – Reading – Acts  4 – 6

Read and believe in Jesus!

SUNDAY – Day 320 – Acts 1 – 3.

A new era is beginning. Jesus has instructed His hand-picked men (less one) in the message of Salvation. He has demonstrated His power over death and the devil.  Soon they will be empowered from above as He promised.  His “work” on earth finished, Jesus raises His arms in blessing and returns to His Father, leaving these precious “earthen vessels” waiting to be lit by the fire of the Holy Spirit.  Is the world ready for them and their message??

.

Ascension and Promises.

We got a glimpse of Jesus’ ascension yesterday in the Gospel of Luke, but here in Acts, the good doctor provides more details. 

Jesus stayed around after His resurrection for 40 days (40 being a time of testing or proof).  He showed Himself to the disciples, His brothers, and groups of believers up to 500 at a time.  There can be no doubt. Now it was the time for Jesus to return to His Father.  Another member of the trinity, who could be present with them all, individually and forever, would be sent by the Father.  They were to wait for this Heavenly baptism.

“Oh, but Lord, will You at this time restore the kingdom to Israel? “they asked,

(“Seriously, guys?) “It’s not for you to know times or seasons that the Father has fixed by His own authority.” Jesus again reminded them. “After the Holy Spirit comes with power, you will be My witnesses in Jerusalem … in all Judea … Samaria … and to the ENDS of the earth.”

Then Jesus began to rise right off the ground, and up toward the sky, and into the clouds until He vanished. The disciples stood gawking, their mouths hung open, hardly believing what their eyes saw. 

“Men of Galilee!” a voice interrupted.  They blinked and looked around, seeing two angels in brilliant white robes. “Why do you stand looking into heaven?  This Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will come in the same way as you saw him go into heaven.”

.

A Replacement Apostle.

After Jesus’ ascension, the disciples/apostles returned to Jerusalem to the upper room where they were staying. All eleven, along with the women and Jesus’ mother Mary, and Jesus’ brothers (who now believed) were of one accord, giving themselves to prayer.

Peter, taking the leadership that Jesus had given him, stood up and said they should replace Judas (who had betrayed the Lord and then gone and hung himself) among the twelve apostles.  The person had to have been with them since Jesus was baptized by John and had witnessed the resurrection.  All agreed.

There were two men eligible, Matthias and Joseph Barsabbas.  They prayed and drew lots, leaving the choice up to God.  Matthias was chosen.  He was thereafter numbered with the eleven.

.

Pentecost & The Holy Spirit.

As Jesus instructed, they all waited in Jerusalem for Pentecost and the coming of the Holy Spirit with power.  All 120 of them were in the upper room when suddenly there came from Heaven the sound like a mighty rushing wind which filled the entire house where they were sitting. Then the appearance of divided tongues of five, dividing and resting on each one of them. 

They were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues/languages, as the Spirit gave them ability. 

Since it was the Feast of Pentecost (or “Weeks” referring to 50 days after Passover, one of the three festivals required of Jewish men to attend), Jerusalem was crowded with Jews from far and wide who had come to celebrate. All spoke Hebrew, as well as the tongues of the countries they lived in – Parthians, Medes, Elamites, People of Mesopotamia, Cappadocia, Pontus, Asia, Phrygia, Pamphylia, Egypt, Libya, Cyrene, Rome, Crete, and Arabia. 

At the sounds of the 120 speaking other languages, these foreign Jews all came together.  And they were bewildered, amazed, and perplexed because EACH ONE was hearing them speak in their own language.

“What does this mean?” they said to one another

“Ha! They are filled with new wine!” said others, mocking.

.

Peter’s First Sermon.

But Peter, the rock, standing with the eleven, lifted up his voice and addressed them.  “Men of Judea and all who dwell in Jerusalem, let this be known to you.  These people are NOT DRUNK, as you suppose, since it is only 9 a.m.  But this is what the prophet JOEL prophesied. 

“In the last days…I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh…

in those days, I will pour out my Spirit and they shall prophesy…

And it shall come to pass that everyone who calls upon the name of the Lord

will be saved.”

And Peter began his first sermon, a beautiful and powerful sermon that pointed out their sin in killing Jesus (although it was indeed God’s plan from the beginning of time), and the mighty resurrection, again quoting Psalms.

“Let all the house of Israel therefore know for certain that God has made Him both Lord and Christ, this Jesus whom YOU crucified.”

“Brothers, what shall we do?” the crowd cried. 

“Repent, and be baptized every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ, for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit…. for the promise is for you and for your children and for all who are far off, everyone whom the Lord our God calls to himself.”

Those who received his word were baptized, and there were added that day … about three thousand souls.

And these new believing souls devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers.”  “And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved.”

.

A Lame Beggar Healed.

Peter and John were going to the temple to pray around 3 p.m. when they noticed a lame man being carried to the “Beautiful Gate” of the temple.  He was going to beg for alms as people entered the temple.  The lame man called out to the apostles, “Alms! Alms!”

Peter and John stopped and asked the man to look at them.  When he did, Peter said, ‘I have no silver and gold, but what I do have I give to you.  In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk.”

Then Peter took the man by the hand and pulled him upright.  Immediately, the man’s feet and ankles were made strong.  The man leaped up to his feet and began walking.  He went into the temple with them, walking, and leaping, and praising God!

All the people saw him and recognized him as the lame beggar.  They were filled with wonder and amazement at what had happened to him.  They ran together to the portico called Solomon’s Porch, where Peter and John were.

.

Peter’s Second Sermon

Peter saw the opportunity to preach. He immediately told them that the power to heal the lame man did not come from themselves.  The God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob glorified His Servant, Jesus – whom THEY had delivered to Pilate to be crucified. THEY had denied the Holy and Righteous One, and asked for a murderer to be released. THEY had killed the Author of Life….. whom God RAISED FROM THE DEAD.

WE are witnesses, Peter preached. “And in His name – by faith in His Name – have made this man strong.  Faith, through Jesus, has given the man this perfect health in the presence of you all.”

That miracle settled, Peter went on preaching for their souls.  “Repent therefore, and turn again, that your sins may be blotted out. 

,

###

.

MONDAY – Day 321 – Acts 4 – 6.

The glory of Pentecost and the massive response to Peter’s preaching, plus the healing of a man who was lame from birth, caught the attention of the religious leaders in Jerusalem.  They were greatly annoyed at Peter and the others who preached and proclaimed that Jesus (whom they had killed) had been resurrected from the dead.  (NOT THIS. again!!)

They arrested Peter and John. 

Did Jesus’ words come to the apostles’ minds in that cell?  “If the world hates you, know that it has hated Me before it hated you.” and “If they persecuted Me, they will persecute you.” 

.

Peter and John Before the Council

Priests, Sadducees and the captain of the temple guard heard Peter preaching. They were greatly annoyed that they were teaching and proclaiming to the people that Jesus was resurrected from the dead. (Remember the Sadducees did NOT believe in resurrection.)

The arrested Peter and John and put them into custody until the next day. (Peter and John were the only ones present at Jesus’ trials before these men.  Did they wonder what was to happen? 

(Meanwhile, those that the two had been talking to BELIEVED their message, making the total amount of believers around 5,000!)

The next day, the Jewish leaders gathered together in Jerusalem with Annas, the high priest, his father-in-law, Caiaphas, as well as John, Alexander, and all who were of the high priestly family. 

“By what power or what name did you do this healing?” they demanded. 

And just like Jesus promised, that when they were before magistrates, the Holy Spirit would tell them what to say, Peter opened his mouth.  “If we are being examined today concerning a good deed done to a crippled man, but what means this man was healed ….. let it be known to YOU and to all the people of Israel that by the Name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom YOU crucified, whom GOD raised from the dead … by Him this man is standing before you well. 

(The Jews thought they were done with this Jesus, and people getting healed.)  But Peter wasn’t finished.

“This Jesus is the stone that was rejected by you!  He’s become the cornerstone. AND, there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other Name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved!”

When these men saw Peter and John – uneducated men – speak with such boldness, they KNEW they had been with Jesus.  Gulp.  Now what?  They took them out of the room to have a private consultation.

“What shall we do with these men, for a notable sign has been performed, and we cannot deny it.?”

“Let us warn them to speak no more in this “Name.”  (And they called Peter and John back.)

“Okay, we’ll give you a warning. Do not speak or teach any more in the name of Jesus.” 

“Ha! Whether it is right in the sight of God to listen to you rather than to God, you must judge.  For we CANNOT BUT SPEAK of what we have seen and heard!”

Because of the people who were praising God at the miracle, the rulers threatened Peter and John, then let them go, finding no reason to punish them.

When they were released they went to their friends and reported what the chief priests had said.  And there was great rejoicing and praised their Sovereign Lord.  And they prayed further,

.

The Believers Pray for Boldness

“And now, Lord, look upon their threats and grant to your servants to continue to speak your word with all boldness, while signs and wonders are performed through the name of Your Holy servant, Jesus. 

After that prayer and praise, the whole house was shaken and all who were there were filled with the Holy Spirit.

.

They Had Everything In Common

Such love did these new believers have, that they sold their possessions to help each other, for some were very needy.  One particular, godly man, Barnabas, a Levite from Cyprus sold his property and brought the money to the apostles for that use.

.

Ananias and Sapphira

Barnabas, had a pure heart of love. He encouraged the needy by his selfless act.  (He was the very opposite of the Rich Young Ruler who had come to Jesus.  He did not find it in his heart to sell his possessions and give to the poor.)

There was another couple who wanted to get in on the glory.  They sold a piece of property, kept some back for themselves in case they also came on hard times.  The rest of the cash they gave to Peter, indicating they had done as Barnabas and given ALL to the poor. 

Peter: “Ananias, why has Satan filled your heart to lie to the Holy spirit and keep back a portion for yourself?  It was YOURS you could have kept all or part of the money.  BUT to say you are giving all to be seen as “holy” before men, is a great sin.  You have lied to God.”  And Ananias fell down dead.

The same thing happened when Sapphira claimed the same thing before the Apostle. She also fell down dead. 

“And great fear came upon the whole church and upon all who heard of these things.”

.

Many Signs and Wonders Done

Teaching and preaching continued by the Apostles. Many miracles were performed to verify their words, and multitudes of both men and women were added to the Lord.  People began bringing the sick and possessed to the apostles, and they were all healed.

.

The Apostles Arrested and Freed

But this did not please the high priest, and all the Sadducees with him.  They were filled with jealousy and arrested Peter and John again, putting them into public prison.

BUT!!!  During the night and angel of the Lord opened the prison doors and brought them out, telling them to go to the temple and continue to speak to the people “all the words of this life.  And they obeyed.

Next day when the council called for the prisoners, but it was told to them that the apostles were gone.  The prison was locked securely and the guards were on duty… but the cell was empty!  The Jews were perplexed.

Then someone came to tell them Peter and John were in the temple teaching.  A guard was sent to get them – but not by force, for they feared the people.  Politely they brought the apostles before the council for questioning.

Council. “We told you not to teach in that name, and you have FILLED Jerusalem with your teaching. You intend to bring this Man’s blood upon us.”

Peter: “We MUST obey God more than man. God raised Jesus – whom YOU killed.  God exalted Him at His right hand – to give repentance  to Israel and forgiveness of sins.  WE are witnesses.”

This infuriated the council, and they wanted to kill Peter and John.

Gamaliel, a Pharisee:  “Wait, wait!”  And after the apostles were take out again, he continued, “Men of Israel, be careful what you are about to do to these men.  Keep away from them. Let them alone. For if this plan is of man, it will fail.  But if it is of God, you will not be able to overthrow them.  You might even be found opposing God!”

So, they beat the apostles, and again let them go, charging them NOT to speak or teach in that Name.

Peter and John left there rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer dishonor for Jesus’ Name.  And… they DID NOT cease teaching and preaching Jesus as the Christ.

.

Seven Chosen to Serve.

A small problem arose in the growing “church,” as they struggled to meet the physical needs as well as the spiritual needs of the multitudes of believers.  The apostles thought it not right to have their time taken up with all the details of distribution.  God had called them to preach.  So seven men of good refute, full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom, were chosen to run the operations.  Steven was one of the seven chosen, a man full of faith and the Spirit.

And so the word of God continued and the number of disciples increased greatly in Jerusalem.  EVEN a great many PRIESTS became obedient to the faith.

.

Stephen is Seized.

Stephen – full of grace and power – was doing great wonders and signs among the people.  But some of the Greek synagogue rose up to dispute with him. Some from Cilicia….. rose up against him too.  But they could not withstand the wisdom and Spirit with which he spoke.  (Remember, Saul/Paul was from Cilicia. He probably was a member of this synagogue….)

The disputers secretly instigated men who said they’d heard Steven blaspheme Moses and God.  And they stirred up the people and the elders and the scribes.  These religious rulers came upon Stephen and seized him and brought him before the council, and they brought false witnesses (Just like with Jesus) who claimed Stephen spoke against the Temple and the Law, saying that that Jesus of Nazareth would destroy the temple and change customs. 

But the council, gazing at Stephen, “saw that his face was like the face of an angel.”

.

Journaling through the Bible Chronologically in 2025, Day 319

Nov15

Day 319 – Reading – Luke 24 and John 20-21

Read and believe in Jesus!

Luke 24 and John 20-21.

These chapters (like yesterday) tell of the Resurrection of Jesus.  He told Martha that He was “the resurrection and the life,” and He’s proved it now.  Luke provides more small details of the events, while John includes more events and the very purpose of His Gospel.

The Resurrection

On the first day of the week, while it was still dark, the faithful women walked to the tomb with spices to anoint the body of their Lord.  They were met instead by two brilliantly white angels who asked them,

“Why do you seek the living among the dead?  He is not here, but has risen.  Remember how he told you, while he was still in Galilee, that the Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men and be crucified and on the third day rise?”

Yes! They remembered His words!!  And they hurried to the eleven disciples to tell them the good news (which the men did not believe at first).

.

Jesus and Mary Magdalene

But Mary just couldn’t take it all in. It was too much to bear?  Alive?  Where was His body? And Jesus appeared to her, calling her by name.  And THEN she believed.  She was like Thomas: she needed that little bit more to help her unbelief.  Jesus understands. He loves his followers and gives them what they need.

.

Peter and John Check the Tomb

Meanwhile, Peter and John decided to check out what the women said.  They ran to the tomb. John, the faster runner, got there first but hesitated at the door.  Peter charged right in, and then John followed. Sure enough, the tomb was empty.

But they saw details that confused and encouraged them.  The grave clothes that Joseph had wrapped Jesus’ body in were still there, lying as if the body had risen right through them.  And the linen cloth that had been around Jesus’ head was … folded and laid aside … purposefully.  What grave robber would take the time to do that?  Could it be?  Was He?  John believed, for sure. Peter, maybe, but still hesitated. But he marveled at the thought as he went home. Jesus alive!!!

.

On the Road to Emmaus

Two other disciples, one named Cleopas, decided to go back home. It was about a day’s walk, and as they went, they discussed all that had happened – from the triumphant entry of Jesus into Jerusalem on a colt, to His wonderful teaching and sparring with the religious leaders, to His arrest, trials, and finally, that horrible crucifixion and quiet burial.  They could not understand.  They thought Jesus was the Messiah, but now He was dead.  It all happened so quickly.

And while they were in deep, anguished conversation, another man joined them on the way, asking why all the earnest talk and sad faces.  They explained to this man (Jesus) all that had happened.  And HE explained to them how all those baffling things were the fulfillments of prophecy.  He listed the prophecies in the Law, the prophets, and the writings that this Jesus had fulfilled.  Gradually, the eyes of their understanding were opened.

They asked Jesus to stay at their house for a while ( for dinner) and He agreed.  Then, as He broke bread and blessed it … oh, that looks familiar… didn’t Jesus do it just that way?  Was… was… THIS MAN Jesus????  YES!  He was!  And as soon as Jesus revealed Himself, He vanished.

The two gobbled down the food and immediately started back to Jerusalem.  They HAD to tell the others.  They had SEEN the risen Jesus.  He was ALIVE!

.

Jesus appears to 10 Disciples

Meanwhile, back in Jerusalem, the ten disciples (minus Thomas, who was somewhere, alone and despondent) were sitting behind locked doors, eating a bit of fish and bread.  They were mourning Jesus’ death, hardly believing what the women said, and what the two leaders had seen. What would they do now?

Then. there was Jesus, standing among them as always.  They about jumped out of their skin!  A ghost!!

“Peace, to you!  Calm down, brothers. It’s me.  See the nail scars in my hands and on my side?  Touch me and see, for a ghost does not have flesh and bones.  Do you have anything to eat?

They gave him some of the fish, and Jesus ate it.  Gradually, they believed it was Jesus, in the flesh (new flesh), risen from the dead.

After Jesus disappeared again, the ten told Thomas what had happened, wishing he had been there too.

“Unless I see in his hands the mark of the nails, and place my finger into the mark of the nails, and place my hand into His side …. I will never believe.”   

(Remember, Thomas had a melancholy disposition.  He usually saw things in a negative way. [At the feeding of the 5,000, he’d said they would NEVER have food enough. When Jesus said he was going to Bethany to see the dead Lazarus, Thomas said they should go along and DIE with Him.)  But Jesus understands all our personalities (like he did Mary’s).

.

Jesus appears to all 11 Disciples

Eight days later, Jesus appears through the walls again, and Thomas is with them.

Jesus:  “Thomas, put your finger here and see my hands; and put out your hand and place it in my side.  Do not disbelieve, but believe.”

Thomas:  “My Lord and my God!”

Jesus:  “Have you believed because you have seen me?  Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.”

.

The Purpose of John’s Account

It’s here, after Thomas declares his belief, and Jesus blesses all who will not see Him, and yet believe, that John writes the purpose of his gospel.

“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.”

.

Jesus Appears to 7 Disciples in Galilee

Later, back in their hometown, a few of the disciples decide to go fishing.  They are at loose ends. (Jesus hasn’t given them the “great commission” yet, or told them to wait in Jerusalem for the Holy Spirit.) He only said He would meet them in Galilee.

They fish all night without success (just like old times).

Meanwhile, on shore, they can see someone with a fire going.  The man calls and asks if they have any fish.  They say they haven’t.  Then … in a strangely familiar way … the man tells them to throw their nets on the other side of the boat.  They hesitate, then do it.  And WOW!  The fish are practically jumping into the boat.

They haul in a load, then Peter notices John is staring at the man.  “It’s the LORD,” John says in awe.  Peter swings around.  As he recognizes Jesus, he is already putting on his shirt. Unable to wait till the boat gets to shore, Peter dives in and power-strokes to his Master.  He is at Jesus’ feet, weeping, and Jesus is making him stand as the boat arrives.  (‘Later, Peter,’ Jesus whispers.)

Jesus adds a few fish to the fish he’s cooking and the bread He’s warming, and serves the men breakfast.  As Jesus broke the fish and bread and handed them out, an intense sense of Deja vu overwhelmed them, and they remembered the 5,000 and the 4,000, and many other times He’d fed them.

Did Jesus remind them again of His first call?  “Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men.”

,

Jesus and Peter.

While the men finished eating and saw to the fish they’d caught, Jesus began reinstating Peter as the group’s leader. All listened quietly as Peter pledged his brotherly love for Jesus.  Three times Peter had denied Jesus (they all knew it), now Jesus asked Peter three times if he loved Him.  “Yes, Lord, You know I love You!’  ” Yes, Lord, You know that I love You!”  “Lord, You know everything, You know that I love You!” 

Jesus looked deeply into Peter’s soul and recommissioned him, “Feed my lambs.” “Tend my sheep.”  “Feed my sheep.”  Jesus had prayed for Peter in his hour of trial as He promised, and He saw Peter’s godly sorrow and repentance.  Now, Jesus showed the others that he was forgiven, and again in the leadership position.

Then Jesus alluded to what kind of martyrdom Peter would face.  He, too, would be crucified (so prepare yourself!), and God would be glorified through his death.  But that was in the future. Meanwhile, Peter was simply to “Follow me,” said Jesus.

.

Jesus and John.

Then, as was Peter’s habit, he briefly looked away from Jesus – remember when Peter was walking on water? When he looked away from Jesus, he began to sink.  Here, he does the same.

Peter, looking at John: “Lord, what about this man?  How will he die?”

Jesus, again scolding him for taking his eyes off Himself: “If it is my will that he remain until I come, what is that to YOU. YOU follow ME.”

(Of course, the rumor then went around that John wouldn’t die. But that’s not what Jesus said.)

John indeed outlived the other disciples by many years, dying peacefully in his mid-nineties.   Jesus had another job for John.  Like Daniel in the Old Testament, John would see visions of the end times, both the horrors and the glories.  And he would write it all down in the book of REVELATION.

.

Jesus’ Commission All His Disciples

Eventually, after spending time with His disciples in Galilee, and appearing before 500 of His followers at one time, Jesus appeared with the eleven back in Jerusalem for the Feast of Pentecost.

He taught them a “crash course” on how He fulfilled all the prophecies of the Messiah in the Law of Moses, the Prophets, and the Psalms.  He showed them HOW the Messiah had to suffer, die, and on the third day rise from the dead.  It was all there, and Jesus made it plain to them.  Of course, the Holy Spirit would also remind them of everything, as needed.

Then Jesus told them, “Repentance and forgiveness of sins shall be proclaimed in My name to all nations, beginning from Jerusalem.  YOU are witnesses of these things!  And behold, I am sending the promise of my Father upon you (the Holy Spirit). But stay in the city until you are clothed with POWER from on High.”

.

Ascension

John gives a brief statement of His ascension.  Luke will provide a more detailed account at the beginning of Acts in tomorrow’s study.

John’s account:  “Jesus led them out as far as Bethany, and He blessed them.  WHILE He was blessing them, He parted from them and was carried up into heaven.  They worshiped Him and returned to the City with great joy, and were continually in the temple blessing God.”

.

Journaling through the Bible Chronologically in 2025, Day 315

Nov11

Day 315 – Reading – John 14, 15, 16, 17.

Read and believe in Jesus!

John 14.  (as well as 15-17) is Jesus’ private teaching to the eleven disciples. Judas has gone, the meal is finished, and before they “sing a hymn” and go out to Gethsemane, Jesus comforts, teaches, promises, and prays for these closest of His chosen men.

Jesus has just told them in chapter 13 that in a little while He would be going away and that they couldn’t follow Him.  When Peter cried out that he would follow Jesus anywhere, even to death, Jesus told him of his failure that very night. (He’s still worrying about this.)

And now, looking at them, Jesus said, “Let not your hearts be troubled.”  He explains (though they do not understand right then) that He’s going away to prepare a “place” for them, but He will come back for them and take them there.

When Jesus told them that they knew the way to where he was going (back to His Father, John 7:33), Thomas asked in panic, “Lord, we do NOT know where you are going. How can we know the way?’  (Hear the anxiety in his voice.)   Gently, Jesus answers that He, Himself, is the Way AND the truth and the life.  That HE is the way to His Father.  “You know Him, right?  You’ve seen Him.”

Now Philip cries, “Lord, show us the Father, and it is enough for us.”

You can almost hear Jesus sigh.  “I have been with you so long, and you still don’t know me Philip?  If you’ve see ME, you’ve seen the FATHER.  I am in the Father, and He is in Me.  My words are His words. My miraculous works are His. Believe me!  I and the Father are one.”

.

Jesus then continues with the amazing teaching about the Holy Spirit in chapters 14, 15, and 16..

  • I will ask the Father and He will give you another Helper to be with you forever, even the SPIRIT of Truth. He will dwell with you and be IN you.
  • The Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will TEACH you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you.
  • The Helper, the Spirit of Truth who proceeds from the Father, will BEAR WITNESS about me.
  • It is to your advantage that Jesus “was going away” because then He will send the Helper to you.
  • The Helper will convict the world of sin and righteousness and judgment concerning sin.
  • When the Spirit of Truth comes, He will GUIDE you into all truth.
  • He will not speak on His own authority, but whatever He hears, He will speak and will declare to you the things to come.
  • He will glorify Me.

He also speaks of love in these chapters.

  • If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.
  • Whoever has my commandments and does them, that person loves me.
  • He who loves me will be loved by My Father, and I will love him and show myself to him.
  • If anyone loves Me, he will keep My word, and My Father will love him.  We will come to him and make our home with him.
  • Whoever does NOT love Me, does not keep My words.
  • As the Father has loved Me, so have I loved you. Abide in My love.
  • If you keep My commandments, you will abide in My love.
  • This is My commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you.
  • Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends. You are my friends.

.

John 15.

Jesus here gives an illustration of how their relationship with Him should be.

He describes a vineyard. His Father is the Vinedresser – the one who planted and cares for the vines.  Jesus Himself is the true vine (with roots deep into the soil).  They – His disciples and all who follow Him later – are the branches growing out from the vine onto wires to spread them out. From these branches, the grape clusters will grow.

As long as the branches are connected to the sturdy vine, they will bear fruit that will remain and grow until harvest.  But the branches MUST stay connected to the Vine.  If wind or animals/bugs, or even the Vinedresser when He prunes,  separates them from the Vine, they will quickly wither and die.  And of course, no grapes will come from those dead branches.

The Vinedresser does purposefully cut some of the branches off the Vine; those that are withered and do not bear fruit.  He does this so the fruit-bearing branches get more nourishment and produce more fruit.

Jesus uses this as a warning.  “Abide in me and bear much fruit.  Apart from Me, you can do nothing.”

And, “My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples.”

And, “You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit, and that your fruit should remain.”

.

In Chapter 16, as well as explaining the Spirit’s ministry, Jesus tells them plainly that in a little while they won’t see Him. They will weep and lament, but the world will rejoice. They will be sorrowful, BUT their sorrow will turn to joy – like a woman in childbirth rejoices when the babe is laid into her arms.

“You WILL rejoice, and no one will take your joy from you.”

“But…. the hour is coming, indeed it has come, when you will be scattered, each to his own home, and will leave Me alone.” 

At their confused faces, Jesus says, “I have said these things to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation.  But take heart; I have overcome the world.”

.

Chapter 17.

This entire chapter is Jesus praying.  THIS is the one we should be calling “the Lord’s Prayer.”  He prays like a priest, standing between God the Father and His own disciples (present and future).  He acknowledges His relationship with the Father, asking that He would glorify the Son (Himself) in order that the Son would bring glory to the Father.

Then Jesus prays for “the people God gave to Him out of the world.” These are the ones who believe in Jesus and the Father, have received His words, and know the truth.

  • “Holy Father, keep them in Your Name, that they may be one, even as We are one.” 
  • The world hates them, as they hated Me. I do not ask You to take them out of the world.  Keep them from the Evil One.”
  • Sanctify them in the truth. Your word is truth. 
  • I do not ask for these only, but also for those who will believe in Me through their word.” 
  • O righteous Father, even though the world does not know You, I know You, and these know that You have sent me.
  • The love with which You have loved Me, may it be in them, and I in them.”

.

Amen! Thank You, Jesus!

Journaling through the Bible Chronologically in 2025, Day 311

Nov7

A NEW MONTH!

Day 311 – Reading – Matthew 24

Read and believe in Jesus!

Matthew 24.

This chapter covers what we’ve already read in Luke 21 and Mark 13.  

.

The conversation between Jesus and his men is prompted by their admiration of the temple and walls of Jerusalem and Jesus’ abrupt news that it won’t be long before they all will lay in ruins.

This prompted more questions, such as: WHEN it would happen, and WHAT would be the SIGN of His coming and the end of the age.

Across the Kidron Valley on the Mount of Olives (possibly in the Garden of Gethsemane), Jesus sat down with them and began to answer their questions.  They weren’t entirely satisfied (as we are also not), but Jesus admits that even He does not know the exact time.

The warnings are the same as we’ve already read, “See that no one leads you astray,” and “See that you are not alarmed with what is coming.”

Jesus adds more information about their time of persecution and apostasy. “They will deliver you up to tribulation and put you to death (James’ death was coming soon!), and you will be hated by all nations for my name’s sake.  Then many will fall away, betray one another, and hate one another. Because lawlessness will increase, the love of many will grow cold.  But the one who endures to the end will be saved.”

Then Jesus told them WHEN the end would come.  Not a certain date or even year, but … “And this gospel of the kingdom will be proclaimed throughout the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come.”

Jesus warns them about the “abomination of desolation” spoken about in the prophet Daniel (9:27 and 11:31) – another one coming who will be like Antiochus Epiphanes, only worse.  And during his time, “False messiahs and false prophets will arise and perform great signs and wonders, to lead astray, if possible, even the elect.”  Jesus told them not to be deceived.  The whole world will see Him at His coming in power. His glory will flash like lightning flashes from east to west.

The fig tree offers an illustration.  When the leaves appear, you know the fruit will follow soon after.

Noah offers another illustration.  Jesus says, “As it was in the days of Noah, so will be the coming of the Son of Man.  In those days, before the flood, they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day when Noah entered the ark. They were unaware until the flood came and took them all away.”

Jesus cautions them, “Don’t be like the wicked servant, who, when his master went away for a time, began to do evil. He beat his fellow servants, instead of providing food for them; he began to eat and drink with drunkards, using up his master’s goods selfishly. 

“When the master returns … ‘He will cut him in pieces and put him with the hypocrites in that place where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.”

.

Whoa.  Okay,  I know the disciples were confused, but the message of Jesus was clear. 

“Don’t be afraid. Don’t be fooled.  Don’t turn aside from the work I’ve given you.  Endure persecution and death.  Be faithful, and you will be rewarded in the end when I return.”

.

And, really, that’s how it is for US today!

 

 

 

 

Journaling through the Bible Chronologically in 2025, Day 310

Nov6

A NEW MONTH!

Day 310 – Reading – Mark 13

Read and believe in Jesus!

Mark 13.

Today’s reading is another account of the dire predictions we read about yesterday in Luke 21, and what we will read about again in Matthew 24 tomorrow.  The setting is Jerusalem, mid-week before the horrible time of Jesus’s suffering leading up to His crucifixion on Passover. He has had several encounters with Jewish leaders, who are even angrier now. 

Jesus also spoke some dire things about the future that have made His disciples curious.  When they leave the Temple, one of His disciples comments, “Look, Teacher, what wonderful stones and what wonderful buildings!”

Jesus answers him cryptically, “Do you see these great buildings? There will not be left here one stone upon another that will not be thrown down.”  

As they walked through Jerusalem and out the gates, through the Kidron Valley to the Mount of Olives, I’m sure they were thinking about what Jesus had predicted.  From their viewpoint, they could see the Holy City across the Western horizon, with the Temple prominently standing. All the enormous stones were “golden” in the setting sun.  It was hard to imagine it all in rubble.  (But hadn’t that very thing happened centuries before when Babylon attacked and destroyed the city and temple, taking Israel into exile?  Would that happen again?  (Sadly, yes.)

Sadly, this first part would happen in less than 40 years after Jesus’ warning. The destruction of Jerusalem and the Temple buildings by the Roman General Titus occurred in 70 A.D., and thousands of Jews were killed or taken as slaves.

.

As they rested on the Mount of Olives – possibly in the Garden of Gethsemane – the four fisherman brothers (Peter & Andrew, James & John) approached Jesus privately. “Tell us, when will these things be, and what will be the sign when all these things are about to be accomplished?”

They wondered if this would happen very soon, not-so soon, or not for a long while. Should they start preparing? 

,

His answer may have been confusing. 

Jesus begins with warnings, “Beware that no one leads you astray.”  “Don’t be alarmed.”  “Be on your guard.”  “Don’t be anxious.”  “The one who endures to the end will be saved.”

This first section seems to refer to the near future, and the persecution they will suffer after He has departed.  However, it could refer to any suffering by believers throughout the centuries.  There will be “false Messiahs” coming that try to fool believers into believing that He has returned.  There will be earthquakes, famines, and wars between nations, but these are just the beginning.

They are to expect persecution from the Jews and governments (think of all that happens in the book of Acts) as they spread the Gospel.  They will be brought to court to give their testimony.  In those times, the Holy Spirit will show them what to say. 

And they are to expect persecution even from their own families, including being put to death (possibly out of fear for their own lives).

.

In the next section, Jesus seems to be warning believers IN THE END TIMES. (see verse 14, “let the reader understand.)  The Antichrist of the Great Tribulation will act and appear like that historical Antiochus Epiphanes, king of Syria in the second century B.C., who raided Jerusalem, killing 80,000 Jews, and then set up a statue of Zeus in the temple and sacrificed pigs on the holy altar. 

Jesus, “For in those days there will be such tribulation as has not been from the beginning of the creation that God created until now, and never will be.  And if the Lord had not cut short the days, no human being would be saved.  (Read Revelation for further details.)  But for the sake of the elect, whom God chose, He shortened the days.”

.

I’m sure the disciples were thoroughly scared by then (I would be).  But Jesus has a little more to reveal.

“After that tribulation, the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light, and the stars will be falling from heaven, and the powers in the heavens will be shaken.”  (As if they were not fearful enough!)  

“And THEN they will see the Son of man coming in clouds with great power and glory. And then He will send out the angels and gather His elect from the four winds, from the ends of the earth to the ends of heaven.”

.

And as for their “When?” question, Jesus gives an example of the fig tree.  When it begins to leaf out, you know that summer is near. “So, also, WHEN YOU SEE THESE THINGS TAKING PLACE, you know that he (and the Kingdom of God) is near, at the very gates. 

Then, before they can ask further, Jesus answers. “But concerning the DAY and the HOUR… no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.”  Only those alive in that final generation will live to see the return of Christ.

And some final warnings, “Be on guard. Keep awake. Stay awake.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

Journaling through the Bible Chronologically in 2025, Days 306 & 307

Nov3

A NEW MONTH!

SUNDAY and MONDAY studies are posted together on Mondays

Day 306 – Reading – Luke 19

Day 307 – Reading – Mark 11 and John 12

Read and believe in Jesus!

SUNDAY – Day 306 – Luke 19.

Today’s chapter in Luke will revisit some of the events from yesterday’s reading in Matthew.  We will go back to Jericho and meet another Tax Collector named Zacchaeus.  He was a chief tax collector, and as such, he was very wealthy and very disliked. Not only did he collect taxes, but he also oversaw others and probably got a “cut” of their money. 

But Zacchaeus was different from that rich young ruler in the previous chapter.  We will see that his money meant little to him, and he was very eager to see Jesus. 

He was a “wee little man,” or so the children’s song goes, and he could not see Him over the heads of the crowd that followed Jesus as he walked through the city.  Quickly, the enterprising tax collector climbed up in a nearby sycamore tree and spotted Jesus.  Jesus saw him in the tree, knew the thoughts and intents of his heart, and stopped.  

“Zacchaeus, hurry and come down, for I must stay at your house today.”

As he scrambled down from the tree, did Zacchaeus wonder how Jesus knew his name? The crowd parted, and the short tax collector pushed through, joyfully leading the way to his house. 

Of course, the crowd grumbled when they saw Jesus go into “that sinner” Zacchaeus’ house.

Before Zacchaeus even called for lunch, he confessed to Jesus, “Behold, Lord, the half of my goods I give to the poor. And if I have defrauded anyone of anything (of course, he had!), I will restore it fourfold.”

How different from that rich young ruler, who went away from Jesus sorrowfully, because he didn’t want to give away even a penny. Zacchaeus offered much more.  The law required only 20% restitution (not half), and replacement of twice the value, not four times.  His heart was truly repentant. 

“Today salvation has come to this house, since he also is a son of Abraham.  For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.”

.

Then Jesus told a parable, perhaps even as they all reclined around Zacchaeus’ meal.  It was to remind His followers that Jesus was NOT (right then) going to establish His Kingdom on earth. (He had to suffer and die first, but they seemed deaf to that message.)  So … Perhaps a parable would get them thinking.

He told a story about a nobleman who planned to claim his kingdom and then return.   While he was gone, his servants were to conduct business and make a profit for him. He gave them each 10 minas to work with. He went, received his kingdom, and returned home.  He asked each of his servants what they had gained for him.

One made a tenfold profit. “Good job. You shall have authority over ten cities in my kingdom.”

One made a fivefold profit. “Good job as well. You will be over five cities.”

One made zero profit. He said, “I put the ten mina in my handkerchief, for I was afraid of you. Here is your minas.”  “You wicked servant. Why did you not put my money in the bank so I might have at least collected the interest? Take that mina from him and give it to the one who earned a 10X profit.”

Perhaps the disciples scratched their heads at this, but probably Zacchaeus understood well about profit and loss and nodded his head in understanding.

 But did they all understand that He, the nobleman in the parable, was going away to claim his Kingdom, not seizing it in Jerusalem?

.

Then, as we read yesterday, Jesus proceeded to Bethphage, where the disciples procured a donkey-colt for him to ride on. And as he rode down toward the gate of Jerusalem, the crowd began waving palm branches and strewing them and their cloaks on the ground for Jesus to ride over. 

“Blessed is the King who comes in the name of the LORD! Peace in heaven and glory in the highest!” they shouted.

Some Pharisees were in the crowd and shouted at Jesus. “Teacher, rebuke your disciples!”

“I tell you, if these were silent, the very stones would cry out,” He answered.

Then at one point, Jesus wept over the Holy City, saying, “Would that you, even you, had known on this day the things that make for peace!  But now they are hidden from your eyes.” And He predicted the time when Jerusalem would fall with not one stone left on another … because they didn’t recognize the “day of their visitation.”  (His time with them.)

Inside the city, the chief priests and scribe sought to destroy Him, but they did not find anything they could do … because all the people were hanging on  His Words.

,

###

.

MONDAY – Day 307 – Mark 11.

Mark repeats the account of Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem and the brief time in the Temple court.

He tells of Jesus cleansing the temple from those who sold and bought there.  He overturned the tables of the money-changers and the seats of those who sold pigeons.  He ferociously quoted the passage in Isaiah about them making his Father’s house into a den of robbers, when it was supposed to be a place of prayer. 

Jesus left the city and spent the night in Bethany.  The next day, Mark also tells of Jesus cursing the barren fig tree because it had no fruit, perhaps indicating how, when He came to “His own,” He found Israel barren of “good” fruit, and not looking for their Messiah.

Inside, the Jewish leaders again challenge Jesus’ authority to do the things He did (cleansing the temple, etc.).  Of course, Jesus met their challenge with one of His own and they left.

.

John 12.

John’s account backs up a little too, to the night they spent in Bethany before getting the donkey & colt at Bethphage the next day. 

It was at the home of Martha, Mary, and Lazarus, Jesus’s beloved home, about 2 miles from Jerusalem. They gave a dinner from Him, Martha served, and Lazarus reclined at the table near Jesus.  Mary, whose heart was wound up in her Lord, came with an expensive jar of ointment and anointed Jesus’s feet, wiping them with her hair.  The whole house was filled with the amazing aroma of the perfume.

“WHY was this ointment not sold for three hundred denarii and given to the poor?”  

Judas Iscariot just could not keep it in.  He saw Mary’s act of extreme love and worship as a big waste.  (Of course, he was the treasurer of the group and kept the money bag, pilfering some from time to time for himself.  If that 300 denarii had been in his pouch, he could have stolen quite a bit.)

“Leave her alone,” Jesus said. “She has kept it for the day of my burial.  YOU always have the poor with you, but you do not always have me.”

.

When the large crowd discovered that Jesus was staying there, they crowded around to see Lazarus, whom Jesus had raised from the dead.  So the chief priests and scribes made plans to put Lazarus to death as well, because the miracle turned many Jews to believe in Jesus.

.

Jesus then rode into Jerusalem the next day to the praises and blessings from the crowd. “Hosannah…the King of Israel,”  The Pharisees grumbled to each other, “You see that we are gaining nothing.  Look!  The world has gone after Him.”

.

“The hour has come for the Son of man to be glorified,” Jesus says. “Unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit.

At one point, Jesus stops and prays to His father in growing anguish. “Now is my soul troubled. And what shall I say?  Father, save me from this hour:  but, for this purpose, I have come to this hour. Father… glorify Your name.”

A voice thundered from Heaven, “I have glorified it, and I will glorify it again!”

“This voice has come for your sake, not mine,” Jesus told the people. “Now is the judgment of this world; now will the ruler of this world be cast out. And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all people to myself.” (He said this, indicating how he would die.)

But the people responded that they read in the Law that the Messiah would live forever.  What was this about Him dying? Who is this Son of Man, anyway?

‘Walk while you have the light, lest darkness overtake you. While you have the Light, believe in the light.”   “Whoever believes in me believes in Him who sent me.   I have come into the world as Light, so that whoever believes in me may not remain in darkness,” said Jesus, the Holy One of God, among many other things. 

Many of the authorities believed in Him, but for fear of the Pharisees, they did not confess it.  They loved the glory that comes from man more than the glory that comes from God.

 

Journaling through the Bible Chronologically in 2025, Day 305

Nov1

A NEW MONTH!

Day 305 – Reading – Matthew 20 – 21

Read and believe in Jesus!

Matthew 20.

The Parable of the Vineyard. (Read verses 1-16. What do you think is Jesus’ message?)

At sun-up (6:00 a.m.), a vineyard owner went to the marketplace to hire day workers. (You’ve all see them: men waiting abound Home Depot or other places for day work.)  The owner picked some and took them to his vineyard. On the way, they settled on the usual day’s pay for a day’s work – a denarius.   

The owner saw that he would need more laborers. Perhaps the heat was damaging the grapes, or a storm threatened.  At 9:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m., 3:00 p.m., and 5:00 p.m. he went back and hired more men. Each of these later hires agreed on “what was fair” as pay.

At 6:00 p.m. (12 hours after the first hire), the owner told the foreman to pay the men and send them home. All had done a great job.  Oh, and he was to begin with the last hired, and go on until the first hired with his “paychecks”. (coins) 

The foreman did just that.  As the earliest hires who had worked a full 12 hours watched the others being paid the same wage they had agreed on, the thought “Wow, WE must be getting much more, having been here ALL DAY.  But when the foreman came to them, he doled out a denarius to each.  These workers looked at the coin in their hand and were disappointed, even a bit outraged. THEY had worked for 12 hours, the last men had worked only ONE!  It wasn’t fair!

Was it?

The owner of the vineyard came to see the problem and asked them, “Friends, I am doing you no wrong. Did you not agree with me for a denarius?  Take your pay and go. I choose to give these last workers as I give to you. Am I not allowed to do what I choose with what belongs to me?  Do you begrudge my generosity?”  

Jesus added to the listeners of this parable to help their understanding, “So the last will be first, and the first last.”

OH PLEASE! Let us not begrudge the Lord’s generosity!  For this is a picture-story of all those who are saved by faith in the work of Jesus on the cross.  Some are saved early and work their entire lives for God, perhaps even giving their lives as martyrs.  Then some believe and are saved late in their lives, such as an old gentleman, or and elderly house cleaner.  Or … the thief on the cross.  They have no, or very little time to work in some ministry.  The thief, had only time to BELIEVE.  But still, we all can be confident that a beautiful, forever “Eternal Life” is waiting for us when they die.  Praise God! Thank You for Your so great salvation!

.

Matthew 21.

The time of Jesus “hour” that he predicted three times to His disciples … is beginning.  Having set His face like a flint to do as His Father asks, Jesus now approaches Jerusalem. They stop in Bethphage.  Jesus is not tired, but He knows there is scripture to be fulfilled. (Zechariah 9:9) He sends two of His disciples into town to get a donkey for Him to ride on. (Matthew tells us that the donkey had a foal, which had never be ridden.)  

“But what if…” they questioned Jesus.

“If anyone asks, say, ‘The Lord has need of it.”

They get the animals and throw their cloaks on the back of the colt, and Jesus sat on it.  (Now…in normal life, that unbroke colt would have shied away from the flapping cloaks, and surely bucked at the weight of a human on its back.  But this Man, was his Creator. He instantly obeyed.)

As Jesus began riding down the Mount of Olives toward the City gate, the crowd “saw” what was happening.  They began to throw their cloaks and cut palm branches on the road before Jesus.  Excitement grew, and they began shouting, “Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosannah in the highest!” (Psalm 118:25)

As Jesus entered Jerusalem, the whole city was stirred up.  “Who is this?” some cried.  “This is the prophet Jesus, from Nazareth of Galilee!”

(If you want to see how all this (and Jesus’ death) fulfills Daniel’s “weeks” prophecy, read Daniel 9:24-26.)

(At some point, Jesus dismounts the colt and either a disciple, or the owner who followed along, takes the two animals away.) 

Jesus enters the Temple area and sees again the “marketplace atmosphere” of buying and selling sacrificial animals, and changing money.  Jesus is furious for His Father’s sake.  He drives them all out, quoting Isaiah 56:7 and Jeremiah 7:11.  “My house shall be called a house of prayer, but YOU make it a den of robbers!”

Cleansed, the temple court now becomes a place of healing for all who come to Him. 

BUT, when the chief priests and scribes SAW the wonderful things that He did, and the children calling “Hosanna to the Son of David!” THEY WERE INDIGNANT.

Leaders: “Do you hear what they are saying!!??”

Jesus: “Yes. Have you never read, ‘Out of the mouth of infants and nursing babies you have prepared praise?”  (Psalm 8;2)

Then Jesus left the Holy City and went to Bethany and lodged there. (Perhaps with Martha, Mary, and Lazarus.)

The next day, four incidents happen that all point to the failure of Israel and her leaders to obey and please the LORD God.

  • 1.)  The fig tree.  On the way back to the city the next day, Jesus sees a fig tree and reaches for some fruit.  However, the tree is void of all fruit.  Jesus curses it and immediately it withers and dies.  (Remember, that the fig tree often represents Israel. This picture shows Jesus disgust at Israel’s leaders, and is predicting the eventual destruction of the city and their pious rule.
  • 2.) The challenge of authority. Inside the temple court, these leaders come to Jesus demanding WHO gave Him authority to do these things (ride into Jerusalem as Israel’s king and cleansing away the “robbers” in the temple. Jesus asks them a question they fear to answer – from where did John get his authority to baptize” – so Jesus tells them HE won’t answer THEIR question. As Israel’s spiritual leaders, they should be praising God, not questioning the holy One He has sent.
  • 3.) The Parable of the Two Sons represent the leaders themselves, who pompously say they are sent by God, but who do not obey His law, and in fact. corrupt it for the people.  The father asked son #1 to go work in the vineyard.  The son said he didn’t want to go, but later went out to work.  Son #2 said he would go work in the vineyard as his father said, but later did not go out.
  • Jesus said the tax collectors and prostitutes were sinners, but finally obeyed God.  Whereas the religious leaders were represented by the second son who said the kept the entire law, and yet inside they were corrupt and obeyed none of it.
  • 4.) The Parable of the Tenants.  In this parable, the Vineyard owner was God, and the evil tenants were the currant religious leaders.  When God looked for the fruit of righteous in His vineyard, they murdered all God’s servants sent to get it (the prophets) and even HIS SON (Jesus) out of greed.  Jesus told them that the Vineyard owner – God – will come with justice and kill all of them, and give the “vineyard” to others.
  • Jesus was direct with them. “The kingdom of God will be taken away from you and give to a people producing its fruits.”

Of course the chief priests and Pharisees KNEW Jesus was speaking about them.  Right then, they feared to arrest him because of the crowds who held Jesus to be a prophet. But just wait, they thought. 

Just you wait.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Journaling through the Bible Chronologically in 2025, Day 304

Oct31

Day 304 – Reading – Matthew 19 and Mark 10

Read and believe in Jesus!

Matthew 19 and Mark 10,

Both of these chapters speak about divorce.   It seems when Jesus was teaching and healing, that some legalistic Pharisees approached Him with a question … again, to test Him,

“Is it lawful to divorce one’s wife ‘for any cause’?”

“What did Moses say?” Jesus asked them, and went on to answer these “supposed” Bible scholars. “Have you not read that He who created them from the beginning made them male and female, and said, ‘Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and the two shall become ONE flesh.’  Whatever, therefore, God has joined together … let not man separate.”

Pharisees:  “Moses allowed a man to write a certificate of divorce and then send his wife away!“

Jesus: “It was because of your hardness of heart that Moses allowed you to divorce your wives.  But from the beginning, it was not so.  I say to you, ‘Whoever divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, and marries another, commits adultery.'”

Later, in private, Jesus’ disciples asked him if it was better to NOT get married. Jesus told them that that way of life was not for everyone.  But if God called someone to abstain from marriage ‘for the sake of the kingdom,’ then it was a good thing.

Then, after blessing marriage, Jesus blesses children. He welcomed them and the Moms who brought them, scolding the disciples for trying to keep them away. “Let the little children come to me. Do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God. Whoever does not receive the Kingdom of God like a child … shall not enter it.”

.

The following incident is when Jesus counseled the rich young ruler, which we studied yesterday. The young man had “kept” the law as far as he was concerned, even saying that he “loved his neighbor as himself.”  However, he still felt some lack in his life that would keep him from “eternal life.”  What was it?

It was the FIRST great commandment. He did not love God with ALL his heart, mind, and strength. Jesus saw that his MONEY was first in his heart, and challenged him to sell everything he had, give the money to the poor, and follow Him with just the “shirt on his back.”   This man was sorrowful. He probably cringed at that thought.  And he just couldn’t do it.  Sadly, he went away.

.

During this teaching on marriage, receiving children, and not having a heart for God, Jesus was still in Judea, East of Jericho.  Now, on that journey to Jerusalem, He headed west, passing through Jericho.  As usual, a great crowd followed Jesus and his disciples.

In the midst of the dust and noise of the crowd passing, a blind beggar sitting by the road heard the name, ‘Jesus of Nazareth.’  He began calling, “Jesus! Son of David, have mercy on me!  (Calling Jesus the Son of David meant he recognized Him as the promised Messiah.)

The people around him hushed him.  But Bartimaeus called even louder, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!”  This was his one and only chance. He called even louder.

And Jesus stopped the procession. “Call him.”  

Now the crowd changed its attitude. “Take heart. Get up; He is calling you!” Throwing off his cloak, he sprang up and came to Jesus.

“What do you want me to do for you?” Jesus asked.

“Rabbi, let me recover my sight!”

“Go your way. Your faith has made you well.” 

And Bartimaeus immediately recovered his sight and followed Jesus on the way. 

.

Compare the response of the rich, young man and the poor, blind man to following Jesus.  The rich man had too much to lose to follow Jesus.  All that wealth and “stuff” held him back.  The blind man jumped at the chance, with nothing hindering him. He’d even thrown off his cloak.  Jesus was enough.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

Journaling through the Bible Chronologically in 2025, Day 303

Oct30

Day 303 – Reading – Luke 18

Read and believe in Jesus!

Luke 18.

In each of Jesus’ parables and teachings, notice WHO He is talking to. 

The Parable of the Persistent Widow is directed to His disciples (going back to 9:22 to verify).  It’s about prayer, persistence in prayer, and faith.

Jesus tells a story about a certain “unrighteous” judge who did not fear God or respect man.  He sounds very self-centered and arrogant.  Each day, this judge heard a request/complaint from a widow about some injustice. He refused to act, probably telling himself there was no benefit to him in doing so.

But she continued to come, day after day after day. He grew tired of seeing her face, of hearing her voice, of her taking up his time.  So finally, to stop her from coming to him, he gave her the justice she requested.  “Finally!” he thought, “I’ll get some peace and quiet!”

After the conclusion, Jesus asked His disciples a question.  “Will not God give justice to His elect who cry to Him day and night?  Will He delay long over them?  I tell you, He will give justice to them speedily.  But… when the Son of Man comes, will He find faith on earth?”   This suggests that there will be FEW “elect” who have genuine faith in the end times. (such as in the days of Noah). 

.

The Parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector was directed to “those who trusted in themselves that they were righteous.”  You can guess Jesus is talking to and about the Pharisees.

Two men went into the temple to pray: a Pharisee and a Tax collector. 

Here’s how the Pharisee prayed. Standing apart from the others, he said,

“God, I thank you that I am not like other men, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even like… this tax collector.  “I” fast twice a week. “I” give tithes of ALL that I get.”

Here’s how the Tax Collector prayed. Standing far off, his eyes cast to the ground, and beating his chest in sorrow, he said,

“God, be merciful to me a sinner!”

Looking at those “who trusted in themselves for righteousness,” Jesus said, “I tell you, this (second) man went back to his house justified, rather than the other.”  Can you imagine the objections in the group of listeners?  No way!  That’s impossible!  You’re crazy!  And Jesus reminds them, “Everyone who exalts HIMSELF will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted.”

There is no one truly righteous in themselves. (Psalm 14:1-3) Everyone has sinned. The only hope of justification comes from God to the repentant.

.

This conversation was directed to those around Jesus (bystanders and disciples) as well as directly to a “rich, young ruler” who asked a question – hoping perhaps to outdo the “stuck-up” Pharisees. “Good Teacher, what must “I” do to inherit eternal life?  This man wasn’t a pious teacher of the law, and he certainly wasn’t a hated tax collector. He was just a regular guy (who just happened to have everything – wealth, youth, and power).

Jesus: “Why do you call me good? No one is good by God alone?”  “Was this guy acknowledging Jesus as God? Or was he saying he recognized Jesus as “good” because he, himself, was also “good.”  If so, he was about to be corrected.

Jesus:  “You know the commandments: do not commit adultery, do not murder, do not steal, do not bear false witness, and honor your father and mother.” Notice that Jesus only quoted those commandments that related man to man.

Ruler: “All these have I kept from my youth.”

Jesus: “One thing you lack. Sell all you have and distribute the money to the poor, and you will have ‘treasure’ in heaven. Then, come, follow Me.”

Hearing this, the rich, young ruler became very sad, for he was “extremely rich.”  Slowly, he walked away.

Jesus then turned and said to those around Him: “How difficult it is for those who have wealth to enter the kingdom of God! For it’s easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich person to enter the kingdom of God.” 

His listeners: “Then who CAN be saved?”

Jesus: “What is impossible with men is possible with God.”

Peter: “See, WE have left our homes and followed you.

Jesus: “There is no one who has left house or wife or brothers, or parents, or children, for the sake of the kingdom of God, who will not receive many times more in this time, and in the age to come … eternal life.”

.

And lastly, Jesus directly tells His TWELVE special disciples (for the third time) what the future holds for Him.

“See, we are going up to Jerusalem, and everything that is written about the Son of Man by the prophets will be accomplished.  He will be delivered over to the Gentiles. He will be mocked and shamefully treated and spit upon. After flogging Him, they will kill Him. Then ON THE THIRD DAY, He will rise.”

But they understood NONE of these things.  It was hidden from them, and they did not grasp what He said.

(Were their minds and hopes too wrapped up in the “glory” of the Kingdom to come?  Did they still imagine Jesus as King and them as His “right-hand men ruling beside Him?”)  

 

(Lord, help me to listen and really hear the things You tell us in Your Word. Please give me wisdom and understanding, a soft heart, and a willing spirit.)