Category:

Consume Jesus

7/24/2010

So Jesus said to them, "Truly, truly, I say to you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you have no life in you. Whoever feeds on my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life, and I will raise him up on the last day. For my flesh is true food, and my blood is true drink. Whoever feeds on my flesh and drinks my blood abides in me, and I in him. As the living Father sent me, and I live because of the Father, so whoever feeds on me, he also will live because of me. This is the bread that came down from heaven, not like the bread the fathers ate and died. Whoever feeds on this bread will live forever" (John 6:53-58).

Some people have studied this passage and use it for teachings about the "Eucharist/Communion/Lord's Supper". But the context doesn't attribute these teaching to deal with worship specifically.

Jesus is stressing the importance of consuming Him; that is, His teachings, godliness, and lifestyle. If we truly choose Jesus and follow Him we will have everlasting life. So, consume Jesus and be humbled before Him

The Lord's humbled . . . John A. Reeves

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Above Reproach

7/22/2010

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"For an overseer, as God's steward, must be above reproach. He must not be arrogant or quick-tempered or a drunkard or violent or greedy for gain, but hospitable, a lover of good, self-controlled, upright, holy, and disciplined. He must hold firm to the trustworthy word as taught, so that he may be able to give instruction in sound doctrine and also to rebuke those who contradict it" (Titus 1:7-9).

What does it mean to be "above reproach"? Does it mean that no one would accuse such a person of wrong doing? If that is the case than, of course, all people would be above lying, falsehood, deception, and evil. But that, unfortunately, is not the case - a work of the Devil to be sure. So, can an elder/overseer be accused of something? Yes. The question then is, upon investigation, will the charges of wrongdoing hold up (1 Timothy 5:19)? Therefor, an overseer who is "above reproach" is not one who is not accused but one who is shown to be without wrong in such and such a matter.

Pity for the one who accuses falsely another for gain or evil (Luke 3:14). Scary for the one who treates falsely the servant of God for he/she treats God that way (John 15:20). Strong is the one who stands for Christ by living for Christ (Galatians 2:20; Philipians 1:21).

God will repay the one who lives for evil (1 Peter 3:12).

The Lord's humbled . . . John A. Reeves

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Fill Yourself Up With . . . ?

7/20/2010

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"Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is. And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit, addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody to the Lord with your heart, giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, submitting to one another out of reverence for Christ" (Ephesians 5:17-21).

Within the Book of Ephesians the Apostle Paul teaches about living the life of a real Christian as apposed to living as a Christian in name only. How many Christians do you know who are not very serious about their life in Christ? Sadly, it seems like alot. It is true, fortunately, that Christians are not saved by perfect law keeping; rather, through the grace of Christ. Yet, does God want a fake Christian?

Paul speaks of drinking in the above passage. Now he does not say it is wrong to drink but he does say that one whose lifestyle is of drink when they are a Christian is ungodly. He says, basically, don't chose a lifestyle of anything other than Christ. In fact, fill yourself of the Holy Spirit by "addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody to the Lord with your heart, giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ" (Ephesians 5: 19-20).

If this understanding is not sure for you, please read and study the Book of Ephesians in context from front to end and this teaching will become more and more clear.

The Lord's humbled . . . John A. Reeves

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Self-Control

7/7/2010

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"A man without self-control is like a city broken into and left without walls" (Proverbs 25:28).

What is the purpose of walls around a city? The most obvious answer is for the purpose of protecting a city from marauders. However there is another purpose behind walls, that is, boundaries.

Many people build "invisible" walls around their person so they can keep others at a confortable distance: physically and emotionally. Yet, what happens when a person does not have appropriate walls/boundaries for themselves?

People who drink alchohol or take drugs are primary examples of someone who lets down their boundaries; i.e., feels "more open" with their feelings. These people become more willing to do, or say, things they wouldn't normally say or do because of their lack of self-control.

Self-control is essential when dealing with people and personal emotions. Without self-control the chances of acting in a way that puts "your city" in jeopardy becomes reality.

What helps your city/boundaries/defense/self-control remain intact? Sleep? Healthy lifestyle? Forgiving others? Not being drunk on alchohol? Proper nourishment? Godly living through Jesus? Maybe, all of the above?

Be a person of self-contol and keep your boundaries in check. This may allow you to be a better example for Christ to others.

The Lord's humbled . . . John A. Reeves

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Anger

7/3/2010

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"Be angry and do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger, and give no opportunity to the devil" (Ephesians 4:26-27).

The apostle Paul, in this context, is speaking to Christians who are working on a maturity in Christ. It is true that Christians need to learn basics of what it means to live a lifestyle that is worthy of Christ. Yet, it is another issue all together to impliment a mature lifestyle change in Christ.

Does a child behave perfectly in all areas of his/her life. No. Is the training to a mature adulthood ongoing or immediate. Definately ongoing. Living for Christ is an ongoing process as well.

Anger, innapropriately utilized, is a facet of life that needs to be controlled by our understanding of Christ. Is anger something that should be festered. No. Anger should be dealt with and talked about. People should share their pain and suffering. Anger which is not dealt with becomes destructive and without cure. But Jesus wants us to mature in how we deal with the hurts and pains in our life. Why? It is a matter of wholeness. How can you be whole when you continue in unresolved anger?

It is a hard heart that remains in anger. It is a godly heart that moves on toward peace. "Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you" (Ephesians 4:31-32).

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Scouting

6/25/2010

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"For I (God) have chosen him (Abraham), that he may command his children and his household after him to keep the way of the LORD by doing righteousness and justice, so that the LORD may bring to Abraham what he has promised him" (Genesis 18:19).

My son, who is 8, and I are going on a cub scouting trip this weekend. I, myself, followed the tradition of my dad who also went through the scouting experience. It is a good program for boys and I recommend it. I am glad my boy enjoys being outside and learning new things. I want to be a part of his life and help him as he grows. Is this something God expects from every dad? How involved should parents, especially dads, be involved in their children's lives?

Abraham was also expected to be involved in his family's lives. Why? Because God knew he (Abraham/dad) would naturally have an impact, whether good or bad, on the future development of his children. Did Abraham play with his kids? I am sure he did. Did Abraham discipline his children? Hopefully. Did he show his family the love he had for his wife? I believe so. How much more important then did he take the responsibility of teaching his family about the love of God through "the ways of the Lord"? It was imperative.

Should fathers/parents today be any less involved in teaching and loving their children in the "ways of the Lord"? Absolutely not. Please recognize your task and be about parenting your children in the Lord.

The Lord's humbled . . . John A. Reeves

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Meditation. What kind?

6/14/2010

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'The LORD saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every intention of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually" (Genesis 6:5).

People tend to be afraid, or intimidated, by knowledge. This is unfortunate. It seems truer that knowledge helps people deal with reality. The reality is that people will physically die. The reality is that all people have sin. The reality is that some will choose a godly approach for sin to be removed from their lives while others - won't care.

Christians are asked to think, or meditate, on godly things regularily. The purpose behind this is so our heart will not be consumed by evil; rather, goodness and godliness. "Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things" (Phillipians 4:8).

The Lord's humbled . . . John A. Reeves

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Godly And Ungodly Living

6/7/2010

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"The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance, but everyone who is hasty comes only to poverty. The getting of treasures by a lying tongue is a fleeting vapor and a snare of death" (Proverbs 21:5-6).

It says it all. Yes!

The Lord's humbled . . . John A. Reeves

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Fear Of Knowing

6/3/2010

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It is good for me that I was afflicted, that I might learn your statutes. The law of your mouth is better to me than thousands of gold and silver pieces. Your hands have made and fashioned me; give me understanding that I may learn your commandments. Those who fear you shall see me and rejoice, because I have hoped in your word. I know, O LORD, that your rules are righteous, and that in faithfulness you have afflicted me. Let your steadfast love comfort me according to your promise to your servant. Let your mercy come to me, that I may live; for your law is my delight. Let the insolent be put to shame, because they have wronged me with falsehood; as for me, I will meditate on your precepts. Let those who fear you turn to me, that they may know your testimonies. May my heart be blameless in your statutes, that I may not be put to shame! My soul longs for your salvation; I hope in your word (Psalm 119:71-81).

In today's American political scene, there is a great deal of conflict. Many people whom I have talked with are angry with what is going on in the government. Other people say it is too depressing so they would rather just ignor it. Unfortunately, ignorance is not bliss.

God has blessed this country with a government that allows its citizens to vote in or out whom they want to lead them. Many countries do not have this privilege. So, why would someone want to remain ignorant when God gives them such an opportunity to make the world more better; hopefully, toward God Himself.

In the passage above, it should be noticed that knowldege is good. Knowledge can lead people to the truth. Knowledge is not to be feared. It shouldn't leave people depressed or retarded; rather, it should lead to understanding. How is your understanding?

The Lord's humbled . . . John A. Reeves

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Relationship With Jesus

5/28/2010

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"Someone told him (Jesus), 'Look, your mother and your brothers are standing outside, wanting to speak to you.' But to the one who had told him this, Jesus replied, 'Who is my mother, and who are my brothers?' And pointing to his disciples, he said, 'Here are my mother and my brothers! For whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother'" (Matthew 12:47-50).

A proper relationship with Jesus is important; at least, it is important to Jesus. First, He distinguishes between a physical heratige and spiritual heratige by stating that blood relationship is not what counts; rather, love, dedication, and an obedient faith to the heavenly Father (cf. Romans; Galatians; 1 John).

Second, the spiritual relationship with Jesus is not just based on a "blind" following and meaningless repitition. (Jesus doesn't want a "blind faith"). He pointed to His disciples. A disciple is a follower. A learner in the true sense. They are those who choose to follow by free will. They continue to learn, grow, and produce fruit of righteousness.

A person of relationship with Jesus (and God) are those who "does the will of my (Jesus') Father in heaven" (Matthew 12:50). Other passages in Scripture teach that this obedience is not one that attempts to earn their salvation (Romans; Galatians). It is a faith that lives a life worthy of the gospel of Christ; i.e., because one desires to wholeheartedly live for Him because of His love that He has already given.

Are you in a relationship with God?

The Lord's humbled . . . John A. Reeves

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Consume Jesus

Above Reproach

Fill Yourself Up With . . . ?

Self-Control

Anger

Scouting

Meditation. What kind?

Godly And Ungodly Living

Fear Of Knowing

Relationship With Jesus

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