March 1st

The Work of God's Grace
Matthew 13:47-50

      In this parable, the kingdom of heaven speaks of all those who profess faith and allegiance to Jesus Christ on earth. It includes the sons of God and the sons of the wicked one who are sown by the enemy in and among God's people. In this story, God portrays His work on this earth in terms of a fishing net drawing in everything in its wake. When considering a parable, it is best to focus on the main point of the story. The point of the story is that both God's people and wicked people come into the church through the work of the Gospel. This condition only lasts till the end of the age. At the end of the age, God will fully and forever separate all good and evil.

      According to this story, this separation is the work of angels. This separation is essential before establishment of the Messianic Kingdom on this earth. It is important that we build fellowship around doctrine, however, we need to appreciate that purity of doctrine does not solve all of our problems. Our Lord did not choose men foolishly or lightly and yet Judas was included in the apostolic band. He was a hypocrite, a thief and a traitor. As the Gospel goes forth today, we need to realize that hypocrites and traitors find their way into the Gospel net along with the righteous.

      What are we to do? According to the Bible, it is not our job to separate the good from the evil. This is a work of God through angels at the end of the age. The text does not tell us how they will be able to do this. Jesus warned his disciples that if they tried to do this, they would not be able to do it. It is not possible for us to discern the difference between God's people and those who only seek to appear as God's people. We read where many of these are blind to their own condition and have impressive outward works. Many folk in this position do not understand that damnation is their end. Jesus said, many are called but few are chosen. It would seem from Jesus' words and from the parable that God's grace does a work on both, however, one group comes short of righteousness. The work of the enemy is to blind their eyes to the truth of their own condition. I never cease to be amazed at the blindness of people to spiritual truth. No one who examines his own heart and life from the Bible before God needs to be blind.

Matthew 13:47-50 Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a net, that was cast into the sea, and gathered of every kind:
[48] Which, when it was full, they drew to shore, and sat down, and gathered the good into vessels, but cast the bad away.
[49] So shall it be at the end of the world: the angels shall come forth, and sever the wicked from among the just,
[50] And shall cast them into the furnace of fire: there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth.

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March 2nd

The Unmerciful Servant
Matt. 18:23-35

      This parable speaks of the grace and mercy of God through forgiveness. The story of forgiveness is of the king's servant who owes the king a huge balance of money, a sum so large that it could not ever be repaid. The king calls the servant to settle accounts and asks him for payment due, even if the servant's family was sold as slaves to pay partial debt, knowing that the servant could not pay the entire balance owed. The servant falls down and begs for leniency until he could try to repay the debt. The master was moved with compassion and instead of demanding total payment, he forgave the servant the whole debt. The servant was freed from his debt based solely on the king's attitude of forgiveness.

      This of course represents sinners, of which every person is one, who owes God the debt of sin; a balance that no one could ever hope to pay. The point to look at in this first part is that we all, as sinners, must fall down (the beginning of repentance) and beg for God's forgiveness if we ever hope to be freed from the penalty of sin. But wait, there's more. The servant only begged for leniency. We must beg for God's Mercy and Forgiveness, but we must also repent of our sin. We see that the servant did not repent. Let us take a look at what happened next.

      The very same servant, who owed a debt he could not pay, but had been forgiven, went and found another person who owed him just a little bit of money, (pocket change). Being merciless, the servant grabbed the other man by the throat, demanding immediate payment, even though this man also begged for mercy. The unforgiving servant would not listen and threw the other man into jail. To be sure, we would not like to be in his shoes when the king found out what had happened. Yes, the king did find out and brought the unforgiving servant to task. This whole parable pictures how God in His grace and mercy has forgiven us. Yet many times we have problems forgiving others. We need to be reminded about how much God has forgiven us. It behooves us as believers to also forgive those who do even the littlest of things against us.

      Gracious Heavenly Father, thank You for Your mercy in our lives. Help us to also forgive others from our hearts, just as You have forgiven us. How we thank You for Your Son, Jesus, our Savior! Amen.

Matt. 18:23-35 Therefore is the kingdom of heaven likened unto a certain king, which would take account of his servants.
[24] And when he had begun to reckon, one was brought unto him, which owed him ten thousand talents.
[25] But forasmuch as he had not to pay, his lord commanded him to be sold, and his wife, and children, and all that he had, and payment to be made.
[26] The servant therefore fell down, and worshipped him, saying, Lord, have patience with me, and I will pay thee all.
[27] Then the lord of that servant was moved with compassion, and loosed him, and forgave him the debt.
[28] But the same servant went out, and found one of his fellowservants, which owed him an hundred pence: and he laid hands on him, and took him by the throat, saying, Pay me that thou owest.
[29] And his fellowservant fell down at his feet, and besought him, saying, Have patience with me, and I will pay thee all.
[30] And he would not: but went and cast him into prison, till he should pay the debt.
[31] So when his fellowservants saw what was done, they were very sorry, and came and told unto their lord all that was done.
[32] Then his lord, after that he had called him, said unto him, O thou wicked servant, I forgave thee all that debt, because thou desiredst me:
[33] Shouldest not thou also have had compassion on thy fellowservant, even as I had pity on thee?
[34] And his lord was wroth, and delivered him to the tormentors, till he should pay all that was due unto him.
[35] So likewise shall my heavenly Father do also unto you, if ye from your hearts forgive not every one his brother their trespasses.

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March 3rd

The Laborers in the Vineyard
Matthew 20:1-16

      Our Lord Jesus used an earthly illustration of hiring laborers in the land owner's vineyard to teach a profound truth of the Grace of God. The owner sent his chief steward out five times to hire laborers. The first were hired about the 1st hour, the second group about the 3rd hour, and so on for the following: the 6th hour, the 9th hour, and the 11th hour. In our thinking it was 6:00, 9:00, 12:00, 3:00, and 5:00 o'clock. The first men hired agreed to work for the price of a day's labor in that day. A "penny" as in the KJV and another translation uses the word "denarius" in both cases it means about twenty five cents in today's money.

      When evening came and the workers gathered at the pay table to receive their wages, the vineyard owner said to pay those who were hired last first. They received their penny, the next, their penny and so on until those who had worked all day also received their penny. Now we see complaining and griping. We worked all day in the heat of the sun and those only worked a short time. That's not fair to us!And here is where the earthly illustration ends and the heavenly one begins. Jesus used an earthly illustration to teach a heavenly truth.

      Our God is just to all. His grace in salvation is extended to the small child and the aged one on an equal basis. So, you were saved as a child, should you have more rewards in heaven than a person who is saved on their deathbed? No, Salvation is based on the gift of grace, not on works lest any person should boast. We can do nothing to earn our salvation, it is a free gift. And in our parable the owner of the land expressed this to those who had labored all day by saying. But he answered one of them, and said, Friend, I do thee no wrong: didst not thou agree with me for a penny? Take that thine is, and go thy way: I will give unto this last, even as unto thee. Is it not lawful for me to do what I will with mine own? Is thine eye evil, because I am good? Matthew 20:13-15. There are times when we see others have so much and we become frustrated because we have so little, but God knows and gives to us something the others don't have. Peace, love and assurance of our salvation that is far greater than material things that soon fade and are cast aside for new toys. Our relationship from God's viewpoint will never change.

Matt.20
[1] For the kingdom of heaven is like unto a man that is an householder, which went out early in the morning to hire labourers into his vineyard.
[2] And when he had agreed with the labourers for a penny a day, he sent them into his vineyard.
[3] And he went out about the third hour, and saw others standing idle in the marketplace,
[4] And said unto them; Go ye also into the vineyard, and whatsoever is right I will give you. And they went their way.
[5] Again he went out about the sixth and ninth hour, and did likewise.
[6] And about the eleventh hour he went out, and found others standing idle, and saith unto them, Why stand ye here all the day idle?
[7] They say unto him, Because no man hath hired us. He saith unto them, Go ye also into the vineyard; and whatsoever is right, that shall ye receive.
[8] So when even was come, the lord of the vineyard saith unto his steward, Call the labourers, and give them their hire, beginning from the last unto the first.
[9] And when they came that were hired about the eleventh hour, they received every man a penny.
[10] But when the first came, they supposed that they should have received more; and they likewise received every man a penny.
[11] And when they had received it, they murmured against the goodman of the house,
[12] Saying, These last have wrought but one hour, and thou hast made them equal unto us, which have borne the burden and heat of the day.
[13] But he answered one of them, and said, Friend, I do thee no wrong: didst not thou agree with me for a penny?
[14] Take that thine is, and go thy way: I will give unto this last, even as unto thee.
[15] Is it not lawful for me to do what I will with mine own? Is thine eye evil, because I am good?
[16] So the last shall be first, and the first last: for many be called, but few chosen.

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March 4th

Two Sons
Matthew 21:28-32

      In this story, we see two sons. The father commands both sons to go and work in His vineyard. One son says he will, but does not. The other son refuses, but feels his moral obligation and repents and goes into the vineyard to work. If we would work in the vineyard, we must follow God's will. We see the character of these sons not in their appearance, but in their work. From our Lord's description, these sons illustrate two groups in Israel.

      One group professed great love and zeal for God and His law. The other group was rebellious and stubbornly followed the path of sin. The one group was the Scribes and Pharisees. The other group was the publicans and sinners. In the ministry of Jesus Christ, the publicans and sinners were coming to the truth while the religious leaders were opposing Him.

      The prophet, Nathan, used a parable to open King David's heart to repentance. As we consider our own spiritual state, we dare not ignore the question of our lives and God's will. Self willed people would rather pursue temporal pursuits than eternal, but God calls all of us to spiritual pursuits. We tend to look at the rebellious child as the most wicked. In this case, it is not true. In this case, the rebellious child has a deeper understanding of truth than the compliant.

      The deeper understanding provides the foundation for God to work repentance on the heart, while blindness keeps one from following through with his commitment. The one son had a great appearance. He shows respect and professes willingness to do His father's will. The other son has great substance. He has enough substance to be open about his refusal to obey, and enough substance to realize his sin and repent. When it comes to spiritual life, there is no substitute for substance. Jesus said, (Matthew 7:21) Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. We read in the book of James that faith without works is dead. If we would find spiritual blessing, grace must work in our hearts to bring us to repentance from sin and spiritual life. If we have spiritual life in our hearts, we will love and serve God.

Matthew 21:28-32 But what think ye? A certain man had two sons; and he came to the first, and said, Son, go work to day in my vineyard.
[29] He answered and said, I will not: but afterward he repented, and went.
[30] And he came to the second, and said likewise. And he answered and said, I go, sir: and went not.
[31] Whether of them twain did the will of his father? They say unto him, The first. Jesus saith unto them, Verily I say unto you, That the publicans and the harlots go into the kingdom of God before you.
[32] For John came unto you in the way of righteousness, and ye believed him not: but the publicans and the harlots believed him: and ye, when ye had seen it, repented not afterward, that ye might believe him.

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March 5th

The Wicked Husbandmen
Matt. 21:33-46; Luke 20:9-18

      This parable gives us a clear picture of what happened to the Jewish nation as they rejected Christ and rejected the Gospel message and then how it was taken away from them and given to the gentiles temporarily. Let us see how this took place.

      In verse 33, Jesus is alluding to Isaiah 5:2 as He was speaking to the Jewish leaders, who were very familiar with this Old Testament passage. The vineyard is a common symbol for the Jewish nation in Scripture and here the landowner, representing God, developed the vineyard with great care, and then leased it to vine dressers, of course representing the Jewish leaders.

      We then see in the different gospel accounts that 3 different servants came individually. The "tenants" (Jewish Leaders) beat the first one, stoned the second one, and killed the third one. Jesus was speaking of how the Old Testament prophets were treated by the Jewish leaders. "My son," represented the Lord Jesus Christ, whom they had killed and ended up having the judgment of God fall upon them in losing the glorious responsibility of representing Christ to the nations and to the world. We see that as the vine dressers pronounced their own judgment in verse 31, this was what Jesus used to pronounce judgment on them. The Kingdom and all the spiritual advantages were taken away from them and given to the gentiles.

      Our gentile country is included in this parable and we as a nation, have for a time, been blessed of the Lord as the leadership and the church has sought to live and preach and teach the unadulterated Word of God. Sadly though, our great nation is in peril of judgment as many good people do nothing! That is right; all it takes for bad people to get their way is for good people to do nothing. Christians, this is a call to repentance! This is a call to stand and move forward against the enemy. God has called us to occupy and to preach the gospel to every creature! May we do so TODAY! Let's purpose to do what we can do TODAY!

      Dear Lord Jesus, forgive us of complacency. Help us to obey and to spread the Gospel to those we know. In Jesus Name we pray, Amen.

Matt. 21:33-46 Hear another parable: There was a certain householder, which planted a vineyard, and hedged it round about, and digged a winepress in it, and built a tower, and let it out to husbandmen, and went into a far country:
[34] And when the time of the fruit drew near, he sent his servants to the husbandmen, that they might receive the fruits of it.
[35] And the husbandmen took his servants, and beat one, and killed another, and stoned another.
[36] Again, he sent other servants more than the first: and they did unto them likewise.
[37] But last of all he sent unto them his son, saying, They will reverence my son.
[38] But when the husbandmen saw the son, they said among themselves, This is the heir; come, let us kill him, and let us seize on his inheritance.
[39] And they caught him, and cast him out of the vineyard, and slew him.
[40] When the lord therefore of the vineyard cometh, what will he do unto those husbandmen?
[41] They say unto him, He will miserably destroy those wicked men, and will let out his vineyard unto other husbandmen, which shall render him the fruits in their seasons.
[42] Jesus saith unto them, Did ye never read in the scriptures, The stone which the builders rejected, the same is become the head of the corner: this is the Lord's doing, and it is marvellous in our eyes?
[43] Therefore say I unto you, The kingdom of God shall be taken from you, and given to a nation bringing forth the fruits thereof.
[44] And whosoever shall fall on this stone shall be broken: but on whomsoever it shall fall, it will grind him to powder.
[45] And when the chief priests and Pharisees had heard his parables, they perceived that he spake of them.
[46] But when they sought to lay hands on him, they feared the multitude, because they took him for a prophet.

Luke 20:9-18 Then began he to speak to the people this parable; A certain man planted a vineyard, and let it forth to husbandmen, and went into a far country for a long time.
[10] And at the season he sent a servant to the husbandmen, that they should give him of the fruit of the vineyard: but the husbandmen beat him, and sent him away empty.
[11] And again he sent another servant: and they beat him also, and entreated him shamefully, and sent him away empty.
[12] And again he sent a third: and they wounded him also, and cast him out.
[13] Then said the lord of the vineyard, What shall I do? I will send my beloved son: it may be they will reverence him when they see him.
[14] But when the husbandmen saw him, they reasoned among themselves, saying, This is the heir: come, let us kill him, that the inheritance may be ours.
[15] So they cast him out of the vineyard, and killed him. What therefore shall the lord of the vineyard do unto them?
[16] He shall come and destroy these husbandmen, and shall give the vineyard to others. And when they heard it, they said, God forbid.
[17] And he beheld them, and said, What is this then that is written, The stone which the builders rejected, the same is become the head of the corner?
[18] Whosoever shall fall upon that stone shall be broken; but on whomsoever it shall fall, it will grind him to powder.
[19] And the chief priests and the scribes the same hour sought to lay hands on him; and they feared the people: for they perceived that he had spoken this parable against them.

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March 6

The Marriage Feast
Matthew 22:1-14

      This parable was directed to the Jews and Christ was inviting them to a spiritual feast, the likes of which the Old Testament believers had never been invited to attend. However, it is also a type of the Marriage Feast of the Lamb. The feast was prepared in eternity past and is now waiting for the day when born again believers shall sit together in Christ's presence in Glory. Like in the type presented to the Jews and their rejection, so the Gospel is presented in our day and we can either accept the invitation or reject it. Many have rejected time and time again this marvelous invitation to sit with our Saviour in the Marriage Feast of the Lamb.

      For two thousand years, the invitation has been given to the world via the Scriptures. As the Scripture says, it is seen in nature For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness; Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them. For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse: Romans 1:18-20.

      The invitation is advertised by church buildings on the street corners. It is broadcast around the world via television, radio, roadside billboards and the printed page. In today's market the Gospel is better advertised, but less accepted. We must continue to offer this precious commodity to all because we are commanded to do so by our Lord Jesus. Matthew 28:19-20 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen. It is unfortunate that so many people of the world and church members don't have the righteous garments that are offered, but are trying to get to the Marriage Supper of the Lamb dressed in their old filthy rags of self-righteousness. Note, the one without the clean robe of righteousness was cast into outer darkness, another word for the place where the worm dieth not, and the fire is not quinched, Mark 9:28.

Matt.22
[1] And Jesus answered and spake unto them again by parables, and said,
[2] The kingdom of heaven is like unto a certain king, which made a marriage for his son,
[3] And sent forth his servants to call them that were bidden to the wedding: and they would not come.
[4] Again, he sent forth other servants, saying, Tell them which are bidden, Behold, I have prepared my dinner: my oxen and my fatlings are killed, and all things are ready: come unto the marriage.
[5] But they made light of it, and went their ways, one to his farm, another to his merchandise:
[6] And the remnant took his servants, and entreated them spitefully, and slew them.
[7] But when the king heard thereof, he was wroth: and he sent forth his armies, and destroyed those murderers, and burned up their city.
[8] Then saith he to his servants, The wedding is ready, but they which were bidden were not worthy.
[9] Go ye therefore into the highways, and as many as ye shall find, bid to the marriage.
[10] So those servants went out into the highways, and gathered together all as many as they found, both bad and good: and the wedding was furnished with guests.
[11] And when the king came in to see the guests, he saw there a man which had not on a wedding garment:
[12] And he saith unto him, Friend, how camest thou in hither not having a wedding garment? And he was speechless.
[13] Then said the king to the servants, Bind him hand and foot, and take him away, and cast him into outer darkness; there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.
[14] For many are called, but few are chosen.

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March, 7th

The Fig Tree
Matthew 24:32-35

      Matthew 24 covers our Lord's answer to questions His disciples asked Him one day as they were leaving the temple. We read these questions in Matthew 24:3 Tell us, when shall these things be? and what shall be the sign of thy coming, and of the end of the world? They wanted to know the time of the temple's destruction and when Jesus would come again. They wanted to know the signs that surrounded such an event. .

      There are no signs concerning the current age. In this context, Jesus talks about the visible return of Jesus Christ to this earth. Some have speculated that the fig tree represents the nation of Israel. They have further speculated that the generation which sees the rebirth of the nation Israel, would not pass away until the end of the age. All those who attempt to calculate the time of the end of the age will fail. The signs are for the nation Israel. During the tribulation when these signs happen, it is like a fig tree beginning to bring forth leaves. .

      In the spring when this takes place, people ought to discern that summer is near. Therefore, during the tribulation, when people see the signs they should realize that the Second Coming of Jesus Christ to this earth is near. The Jews of the generation that see these signs Jesus mentioned will not pass away until the end.

      We need to appreciate that the nation of Israel is God's clock. In Daniel's prophecy, we see the time that God allotted for Israel. Currently, we are in the times of the gentiles. Gentiles have no interest in signs. We read in 1 Corinthians 1:22 'the Jews require a sign, and the Greeks seek after wisdom. The wisdom of this world is foolishness to God. Jesus said that Jerusalem would be trodden down of the gentiles until the times of the gentiles are fulfilled. It is interesting to note that at this hour, both Christians and Jews believe that the coming of the Lord is near. Why is that? The signs that Jesus talked about are visible today, and just like the fig tree, we need to appreciate that the end is near. We need to watch and pray. We need to be ready.

Matthew 24:32-35 Now learn a parable of the fig tree; When his branch is yet tender, and putteth forth leaves, ye know that summer is nigh:
[33] So likewise ye, when ye shall see all these things, know that it is near, even at the doors.
[34] Verily I say unto you, This generation shall not pass, till all these things be fulfilled.
[35] Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away.

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March 8th

The Ten Virgins
Matt. 25:1-13

      Jesus is giving a clear message to us of what the kingdom of God is like. There are so-called "Christian people" everywhere you turn, aren't there? If you were to ask most people today if they were "Christian," they would answer, "Of course, after all I am not a heathen." Sadly, that false profession is what most people think a Christian is, but that is only a lie straight from the pit of hell as we look into this passage further.

      We see in this parable that there were 10 virgins. These ten virgins represent "professing" believers! Ten people who claim to know Christ. Ten people who profess to be "Christian."There were 5 wise people and there were 5 foolish people. We see here that Jesus is speaking to those who will "hear and obey." The wise people represent those who love and obey God. 1 John 2:3-5 says, 3And hereby we do know that we know him, if we keep his commandments. 4He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. 5But whoso keepeth his word, in him verily is the love of God perfected: hereby know we that we are in him." The 5 wise people were getting ready for Christ's return and they were obeying God and living for God.

      This cannot be said for the other 5. These other 5 were very unwise. These fools professed to know Christ as so many people do today. But they were not watching for Christ, they were not living for Christ, and they were not obeying Christ. These 5 went into eternity not knowing Christ and He proclaims judgment on them saying in verse 10-12, 10And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came; and they that were ready went in with him to the marriage: and the door was shut. 11Afterward came also the other virgins, saying, Lord, Lord, open to us. 12But he answered and said, Verily I say unto you, I know you not."

      Folks, where do you stand? Are you as one of the wise people who is daily working for God and obediently looking for Christ's return, or are you as one of the foolish ones who only professes to know Him, but instead going your own way?! Oh that we might learn an important lesson of true repentance today! May we obediently live for Christ till He comes!

Dear God, how ashamed we are of our false professions. Have mercy on us, forgive us and help us to live for You! Amen.

Matt.25
[1] Then shall the kingdom of heaven be likened unto ten virgins, which took their lamps, and went forth to meet the bridegroom.
[2] And five of them were wise, and five were foolish.
[3] They that were foolish took their lamps, and took no oil with them:
[4] But the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps.
[5] While the bridegroom tarried, they all slumbered and slept.
[6] And at midnight there was a cry made, Behold, the bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet him.
[7] Then all those virgins arose, and trimmed their lamps.
[8] And the foolish said unto the wise, Give us of your oil; for our lamps are gone out.
[9] But the wise answered, saying, Not so; lest there be not enough for us and you: but go ye rather to them that sell, and buy for yourselves.
[10] And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came; and they that were ready went in with him to the marriage: and the door was shut.
[11] Afterward came also the other virgins, saying, Lord, Lord, open to us.
[12] But he answered and said, Verily I say unto you, I know you not.
[13] Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh.

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March 9th

The Parable of the Talents
Matthew 25:14-30

      This parable refers to Christians and the talents they receive from the Lord and how they use them. Some have suggested these first refer to ministers and missionaries and other leaders in the church who have been blessed with knowledge of the Word of God. They have received from the Lord special training and responsibilities that the average lay person has not been exposed to. However, that does not excuse other believers from using the God given talents they have received to further the cause of Christ.

      These gifts were given to three people and we see immediately that two are faithful, but the third is miserly and does not put his talent to use for the Lord. There are many gifts for us to take advantage of to use for our Lord. The gift of prayer is most important, if not the most important gift. It is profitable for us to pray for the leaders of the church and every person who sits in the pew.

      I heard this illustration many years ago and it bears repeating now. "The church sexton was working late in the church one Saturday evening and was surprised to hear a voice in the sanctuary. He quietly stepped into the back of the room and heard the minister praying for the people that would be sitting in each pew. The minister was stopping at each pew and kneeling and calling the families by name and asking the Lord for a special blessing upon them in the Sunday Worship."

      We e-mail the prayer letters to 42 families in the church and I wonder if all 42 families pray for the requests. It seems that most are praying and we are seeing answers to our requests and the people requesting prayer thank you. We try to follow up with a note of praise for the answers.

      Other talents the Lord gives us are the ability to financially support the church, to teach a Sunday School class, to be a volunteer and help in Liberty Academy, to witness to lost souls in visitation and prayer, and to visit the sick and elderly. Every Christian has at least one talent, most have more. John 4:35 behold, I say unto you, Lift up your eyes, and look on the fields; for they are white already to harvest.

Matthew 25:14-30 For the kingdom of heaven is as a man travelling into a far country, who called his own servants, and delivered unto them his goods.
[15] And unto one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one; to every man according to his several ability; and straightway took his journey.
[16] Then he that had received the five talents went and traded with the same, and made them other five talents.
[17] And likewise he that had received two, he also gained other two.
[18] But he that had received one went and digged in the earth, and hid his lord's money.
[19] After a long time the lord of those servants cometh, and reckoneth with them.
[20] And so he that had received five talents came and brought other five talents, saying, Lord, thou deliveredst unto me five talents: behold, I have gained beside them five talents more.
[21] His lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.
[22] He also that had received two talents came and said, Lord, thou deliveredst unto me two talents: behold, I have gained two other talents beside them.
[23] His lord said unto him, Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.
[24] Then he which had received the one talent came and said, Lord, I knew thee that thou art an hard man, reaping where thou hast not sown, and gathering where thou hast not strawed:
[25] And I was afraid, and went and hid thy talent in the earth: lo, there thou hast that is thine.
[26] His lord answered and said unto him, Thou wicked and slothful servant, thou knewest that I reap where I sowed not, and gather where I have not strawed:
[27] Thou oughtest therefore to have put my money to the exchangers, and then at my coming I should have received mine own with usury.
[28] Take therefore the talent from him, and give it unto him which hath ten talents.
[29] For unto every one that hath shall be given, and he shall have abundance: but from him that hath not shall be taken away even that which he hath.
[30] And cast ye the unprofitable servant into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.

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March 10th

The Sheep and the Goats
Matthew 25:31-46

      The separating of the sheep and the goats here is a picture of God judging the nations. At the end of the tribulation, God will gather the people as nations before Him. Only the righteous will enter the kingdom age. It will be even as the flood of Noah's day. There will be a complete separation of good and evil on this earth. God often begins a new age with this kind of division.

      God likens the good people and nations to sheep and the evil as goats. We don't often think in these terms, but I believe even today, people could be divided along the same lines. There are good people. Their destiny is heaven, and there are wicked people. Their destiny is hell. There is no middle ground. The judgment of the nations here is based on the treatment of these nations and people for the Jews. There were those who looked on the affliction of God's people and did what they could to help. This action demonstrated the faith that was in the heart. These people love God. These people love God's people. They love others as they love themselves.

      Throughout the history of the world, the enemy has hated Israel. At the end of the age, there will be one last attempt to exterminate the Jews. The Jews were God's chosen people. They were the custodians of God's Word. They were a nation who identified with God. They demonstrated to the nations around them that blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord. They provided the line of the Messiah. Jesus was of the tribe of Judah and the son of David. As such, He was the rightful king of Israel as He walked this earth.

      I believe that there are degrees of damnation and salvation. In this judgment, the nation Israel will be first in the kingdom, and there will be base nations. The base nations are those who hated Israel. It is important to realize that our choices in life as individuals and as a people, affect others. In the kingdom, the people of the base nations will all be redeemed, but they are base because of how their nation treated Israel. We need to realize that our choices affect others for good or evil.

Matthew 25:31-46 1] When the Son of man shall come in his glory, and all the holy angels with him, then shall he sit upon the throne of his glory:
[32] And before him shall be gathered all nations: and he shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd divideth his sheep from the goats:
[33] And he shall set the sheep on his right hand, but the goats on the left.
[34] Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world:
[35] For I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in:
[36] Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me.
[37] Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, and fed thee? or thirsty, and gave thee drink?
[38] When saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in? or naked, and clothed thee?
[39] Or when saw we thee sick, or in prison, and came unto thee?
[40] And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.
[41] Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels:
[42] For I was an hungred, and ye gave me no meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me no drink:
[43] I was a stranger, and ye took me not in: naked, and ye clothed me not: sick, and in prison, and ye visited me not.
[44] Then shall they also answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, or athirst, or a stranger, or naked, or sick, or in prison, and did not minister unto thee?
[45] Then shall he answer them, saying, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye did it not to one of the least of these, ye did it not to me.
[46] And these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal.

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March 11th

The Growing Seed
Mark 4:26-29

      The Gospel message is so powerful and so amazing! It transforms hearts and lives from sin unto obedience to God. Today's parable tells us of the life changing work of God unto salvation. Let us take a closer look!

      When a person truly comes to Christ as their Savior, the Holy Spirit enters the life of that person and begins to teach and to show that person the ways of God the Father through the Word of God as it is studied and memorized and obeyed. 2 Corinthians 5:17 says, "17Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new." That person is made a new creature, a babe in Christ, thus, the growing seed. This is known as the sanctification process. First a person is justified, made new in Christ. Then the growing process is next which literally takes place throughout a person's entire life. Growing in Christ, learning of Him, walking with Him, obeying Him, loving Him. This is where true Christians are to be!

      It is interesting though that many times well-meaning folks seem to miss the obvious. When a person leads someone else to Christ, that person sometimes thinks that the one that was just saved should now know everything there is to know about Christ. But this cannot be as it is a growing process. There was an example given of a little baby born prematurely. This little one was just a little over 2 pounds and was precariously on the edge of life and death. As the parents daily prayed for this little one, they became ecstatic when the little baby gained just 1 gram of weight. Say, when was the last time we got this excited when we saw someone who was struggling in their new walk with Christ because we expected them to be spiritually mature and instead they were just growing slowly, maybe by just one gram. Yes, in time Christ will accomplish His work in each life. We must realize we are only the sowers and it is Christ who does the work of sanctification and spiritual growing as we obediently submit to His sovereign plan for us. Let us purpose to take care of our own lives and live for Christ as He will put in the sickle one day and harvest those who have been obedient to His Holy Word!

"Dear Lord, how we often look at others, rather than taking care of ourselves. Please forgive us and guide us in Your Truth. Amen."

Mark 4:26-29 And he said, So is the kingdom of God, as if a man should cast seed into the ground;
[27] And should sleep, and rise night and day, and the seed should spring and grow up, he knoweth not how.
[28] For the earth bringeth forth fruit of herself; first the blade, then the ear, after that the full corn in the ear.
[29] But when the fruit is brought forth, immediately he putteth in the sickle, because the harvest is come.

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March 12

The Parable of The Householder
Mark 13:34

      Mark 13:34-37 For the Son of man is as a man taking a far journey, who left his house, and gave authority to his servants, and to every man his work, and commanded the porter to watch. Watch ye therefore: for ye know not when the master of the house cometh, at even, or at midnight, or at the cockcrowing, or in the morning: Lest coming suddenly he find you sleeping. And what I say unto you I say unto all, Watch. The above verses are the second most important verses in Scripture. The seventh saying from the cross is first, It is Finished! The Jews were looking forward to the coming of Messiah. Every young woman hoped she would be chosen to be His mother. But when He came, they rejected Him and still do. We are commanded to watch and be ready Matthew 24:42&44 Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come. Therefore be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh. Matthew and Mark both speak of the imminent return of the Lord, but each seems to refer to His second coming as the time when He will set up His Kingdom for a thousand years. I Corinthians 15 and 1st and 2nd Thessalonians point to the Rapture of the church and in both cases it is without warning.

      There are no signs to be sought as to the Rapture, but there are events that must take place in preparation for the Rapture and Second Coming.

1. False prophets and pretended messiahs
2. Wars and rumors of wars and nations rising against nations
3. Earthquakes are more numerous and devastating
4. Famine and plagues on a world-wide level
5. Persecutions of Israel and Christian believers
6. Apostasies and the declaration of the Gospel to all nations
7. A breakdown of morals
8. Irresponsible parents and rebellious children
9. Social attitudes distorted and governmental degradation
10. The declaration of the Gospel to all nations

We are experiencing all of the above, so we know the Rapture is not too far away, it may be today.

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March 13th

Two Debtors
Luke 7:40-50

      In this account, our Lord takes the common judgment in the hearts of people as the foundation to teach a spiritual principle. This is not just something Jesus could do; you and I can do the same thing. God writes His law on the heart. Only those who have given themselves to evil, lack this understanding. You hear folk talk about "common sense". What is "common sense"? I believe, in part, it is the law of God written on the human heart.

      We might think of this message as one of common courtesy. In this story, a man forgives two debtors. One has a great debt and one a small debt. Then Jesus asks which man will feel the most love. This Pharisee, Simon, answers correctly, he said, the one who received the most forgiveness. Then Jesus related it to things going on in Simon's heart. Simon's love for Christ was inferior to the sinful woman who was kissing and washing Jesus feet. The sad truth was that Simon's exterior righteousness like that of most Pharisee's was for self not Christ. Simon did not want others to regard him as he regarded this sinful woman. As such, Simon's righteousness was flawed.

      On the other hand, the woman's love and faith was pure. She found salvation as all that find salvation do. She deeply felt her need and looked in faith and in hope to Jesus Christ. Simon felt no need, and so he didn't need to look to Jesus Christ for hope and help. We cannot forget the heart when it comes to salvation and righteousness. Gold is not all that glitters. Many take on the robes of righteousness to get something for self. In this sense, they are little if any different from those who take hold of the pleasures of sin for self with the exception that others are not deceived. This is why Jesus always had the greatest condemnation for self-righteous sinners. They are spiritually blind, but as they lead others they do much spiritual damage. Therefore, they are destined to receive greater condemnation. It is better that we be more than we appear than to appear to be more than we really are. If we understand this, we will build our lives from the inside out and not from the outside in.

Luke 7:40-50 And Jesus answering said unto him, Simon, I have somewhat to say unto thee. And he saith, Master, say on.
[41] There was a certain creditor which had two debtors: the one owed five hundred pence, and the other fifty.
[42] And when they had nothing to pay, he frankly forgave them both. Tell me therefore, which of them will love him most?
[43] Simon answered and said, I suppose that he, to whom he forgave most. And he said unto him, Thou hast rightly judged.
[44] And he turned to the woman, and said unto Simon, Seest thou this woman? I entered into thine house, thou gavest me no water for my feet: but she hath washed my feet with tears, and wiped them with the hairs of her head.
[45] Thou gavest me no kiss: but this woman since the time I came in hath not ceased to kiss my feet.
[46] My head with oil thou didst not anoint: but this woman hath anointed my feet with ointment.
[47] Wherefore I say unto thee, Her sins, which are many, are forgiven; for she loved much: but to whom little is forgiven, the same loveth little.
[48] And he said unto her, Thy sins are forgiven.
[49] And they that sat at meat with him began to say within themselves, Who is this that forgiveth sins also?
[50] And he said to the woman, Thy faith hath saved thee; go in peace.

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March 14th

The Good Samaritan
Luke 10:25-37

      This parable speaks directly to those who would challenge the godly teaching and preaching of God's Word. There are those who are just disagreeable in every sense of the word, against those whom God has placed in godly authority such as pastors and teachers to congregations, parents to children, etc. 2 Peter 3:16-17 16As also in all his epistles, speaking in them of these things; in which are some things hard to be understood, which they that are unlearned and unstable wrest, as they do also the other scriptures, unto their own destruction. 17Ye therefore, beloved, seeing ye know these things before, beware lest ye also, being led away with the error of the wicked, fall from your own stedfastness." When God's Word is presented, they will find fault and disagreement with the teaching and with the person presenting the truths.

      We see Jesus carefully speaking to one of these persons who even was a supposed expert of the Old Testament law, who falsely questioned how to receive eternal life. Jesus wisely responded with an Old Testament question. In other words, "What does the Bible say?" The man answered Jesus in verse 27. "27And he answering said, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbour as thyself." Rather than learn from Jesus, this twisted man knowingly tried to justify himself and went further, asking whom his neighbor was. Jesus carefully explained to him that his neighbor is the one who is in need. Jesus told him to go and have mercy on those whom he found were hurting and in need of daily things. Do you suppose that this man listened? Probably not and it is not likely that many of these kind of people are really interested in obeying the Word of God as they should. This is literally the work of sin and of Satan in their lives, leading them in ungodliness. Jude 15, "that are ungodly among them of all their ungodly deeds which they have ungodly committed, and of all their hard speeches which ungodly sinners have spoken against him. 16These are murmurers, complainers, walking after their own lusts; and their mouth speaketh great swelling words, having men's persons in admiration because of advantage."

"Dear Heavenly Father, help us to faithfully stand and hold fast Your Truth in our lives, to love You and not sway! Amen."

Luke 10:25-37 And, behold, a certain lawyer stood up, and tempted him, saying, Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?
[26] He said unto him, What is written in the law? how readest thou?
[27] And he answering said, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbour as thyself.
[28] And he said unto him, Thou hast answered right: this do, and thou shalt live.
[29] But he, willing to justify himself, said unto Jesus, And who is my neighbour?
[30] And Jesus answering said, A certain man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among thieves, which stripped him of his raiment, and wounded him, and departed, leaving him half dead.
[31] And by chance there came down a certain priest that way: and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side.
[32] And likewise a Levite, when he was at the place, came and looked on him, and passed by on the other side.
[33] But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was: and when he saw him, he had compassion on him,
[34] And went to him, and bound up his wounds, pouring in oil and wine, and set him on his own beast, and brought him to an inn, and took care of him.
[35] And on the morrow when he departed, he took out two pence, and gave them to the host, and said unto him, Take care of him; and whatsoever thou spendest more, when I come again, I will repay thee.
[36] Which now of these three, thinkest thou, was neighbour unto him that fell among the thieves?
[37] And he said, He that shewed mercy on him. Then said Jesus unto him, Go, and do thou likewise.

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March 15

The Importunate Friend
Luke 11:5

      Luke 11:5-10,And he said unto them, Which of you shall have a friend, and shall go unto him at midnight, and say unto him, Friend, lend me three loaves; 6 For a friend of mine in his journey is come to me, and I have nothing to set before him? 7 And he from within shall answer and say, Trouble me not: the door is now shut, and my children are with me in bed; I cannot rise and give thee. 8 I say unto you, Though he will not rise and give him, because he is his friend, yet because of his importunity he will rise and give him as many as he needeth. 9 And I say unto you, Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you. 10 For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened. It is interesting that this parable follows Luke's recording of the Apostle's Prayer. Jesus was teaching the unlearned men how to pray or how to address the Lord God in prayer and to be consistent in prayer. Do you recall as a child or as you are trying to teach your children to be patient that children are very impatient. They want something right now! Have they ever asked "Are we there yet?" "When can I have it?" "Why can't we go to McDonalds now?" The most difficult problem for children and Christians is to be patient. Romans 5:3-5 And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; And patience, experience; and experience, hope: And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.

      Note finally, the importunity of the man; he wanted food for a visitor and he wanted it that night. In other words, the lesson for us is to be consistent in our prayers. Don't plan on getting something from God if there is unconfessed sin in your heart. First, put that sin or sins under the blood (I John 1:7 & 9)and then bring your petitions to Him in a humble and yet determined attitude. If you really want something, ask for it. Joshua 1:9Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest. This is a good verse to learn today.

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March 16th

Material Values
Luke 12:13-21

      The man who came to Jesus for help probably suffered from injustice. Therefore, some may find Jesus' answer troubling. What they don't understand is that injustice or not, material things should not be our focus in life. One of the things I have found most troubling during my life is the material focus of many of those who profess faith in Christ. Most churches that I have known in my life seem to manifest more concern over $1,000 than important Biblical truth.

      Now I know we need to attend to practical and material things. We are not to be wasteful or neglectful of our resources. Yet, we need to understand that all the resources this world can muster are of less value than our soul or I believe even one soul. This life is but a vapor that appears for a little while and quickly passes away. I am getting closer and closer to 50 and I marvel at how people can put so much focus on material things. Life passes by very quickly and we can take nothing with us. A sinful focus will lead us to sacrifice the permanent on the altar of the immediate.

      In this text, we read about being rich toward God. How can we be rich toward God? The only thing in our experience that will follow us from this world to the next is people. Therefore, we ought to value family. We can take our children and grandchildren with us, though we can't take our gold. A story is told of a rich man who pleaded with God to let him take just one suitcase with him. As Peter meets him at the gates of the celestial city, Peter asks him about the suitcase. The man wanted to take something with him, so he filled the suitcase with pure gold. Peter looked puzzled and so the man asked him why. Peter said, "why you would bring pavement?" We read in the Bible that the streets of the celestial city are paved with gold. Everything in heaven is so much better than anything we have here, no one there would bring anything if they could.

      What would our lives reveal today? Are we like the fool of our Lord's story or are we wise? If our love for gold exceeds our love for God and others we are foolish, and we will probably not gain the whole world, but even if we did we would still be fools.

Luke 12:13-21 And one of the company said unto him, Master, speak to my brother, that he divide the inheritance with me.
[14] And he said unto him, Man, who made me a judge or a divider over you?
[15] And he said unto them, Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man's life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth.
[16] And he spake a parable unto them, saying, The ground of a certain rich man brought forth plentifully:
[17] And he thought within himself, saying, What shall I do, because I have no room where to bestow my fruits?
[18] And he said, This will I do: I will pull down my barns, and build greater; and there will I bestow all my fruits and my goods.
[19] And I will say to my soul, Soul, thou hast much goods laid up for many years; take thine ease, eat, drink, and be merry.
[20] But God said unto him, Thou fool, this night thy soul shall be required of thee: then whose shall those things be, which thou hast provided?
[21] So is he that layeth up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God.

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March 17th

Expectant Servants Watching
Luke 12:35-40

      Are you ready?! Are you absolutely sure that if you were to die this very night that you would be in Heaven with the Lord?! Are you absolutely sure without a shadow of a doubt?! Are you waiting and watching for the Lord's return?! Could it be today? Could it be tonight?

      Hopefully, your answers would be, "YES, come Lord Jesus!" We see clearly in this parable the very same urgency for the expectant servant. We, as true Christians, are to have our waists girded and our lamps burning and we are to be waiting for the Master who is coming to take His bride to spend an eternity forever with Him in glory! It could happen at any time!

      We must be ready for no man knoweth the hour nor the day when the Lord will return. This is an urgent plea from the Lord to those who claim to know Christ. We are to be prepared, we are to be watching and waiting, we are to be witnessing and making disciples, we are to be spiritually growing, we are to be obedient to the call which God has given to true Christians to love Him and obey Him. Unfortunately, we see many folks, who at best, may religiously make it to church once or twice a month, those who never open their Bibles and feast on the riches of the Word, those who never witness for Christ, those who go their own ways, doing their own selfish things with no time nor room for God. This is a sad representation of many who profess Christ. They are not ready, they are not watching, they are not prepared, and they will be found wanting.

      Say, we have been given the warning here, so let us decide today to do something about it. Why not confess sin. Go to the Lord and confess and repent of those things you know are wanting and then begin today to live a life of expectancy as if the Lord was going to return TODAY! Let's ask ourselves this question as we evaluate our lives before the Lord. What should we knowingly do differently that we are not doing now for Christ? Then as God shows us these areas, prepare and do what we need to do to bring ourselves into readiness as we anxiously look for the sure and imminent return of Christ! May His Holy Name be Praised as we humbly obey!

"Gracious Lord, forgive us when we become complacent! Help us to be ready and watching for Your imminent return. Amen."

Luke 12:35-40 Let your loins be girded about, and your lights burning;
[36] And ye yourselves like unto men that wait for their lord, when he will return from the wedding; that when he cometh and knocketh, they may open unto him immediately.
[37] Blessed are those servants, whom the lord when he cometh shall find watching: verily I say unto you, that he shall gird himself, and make them to sit down to meat, and will come forth and serve them.
[38] And if he shall come in the second watch, or come in the third watch, and find them so, blessed are those servants.
[39] And this know, that if the goodman of the house had known what hour the thief would come, he would have watched, and not have suffered his house to be broken through.
[40] Be ye therefore ready also: for the Son of man cometh at an hour when ye think not.

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March 18th

The Wise Steward
Luke 12:42 And the Lord said, Who then is that faithful and wise steward, whom his lord shall make ruler over his household, to give them their portion of meat in due season?

      It is Christ's design that there should be stewards in His church whose duty is to give His people spiritual meat by feeding the flock. Ministers who are feeding the flock will find themselves to be spiritually blessed and the church will prosper under their ministry. The ministry has blessings for the minister on a daily basis that is not only in the material things of life but also in the spiritual realm. There is no higher calling than to be a steward in the house of the Lord.

      On the negative side of the coin, ministers who are only in the ministry for the prestige and social position will find themselves condemned by the Lord at His return for the church. They will be found guilty of very poor or bad stewardship and will, thus, lose any rewards they could have had if they had been faithful to their calling. Jesus declared that there would be opposition to the Gospel and preaching sound doctrine, but that does not give us license to avoid controversy and take the easy path, but to be of good courage and stand for what's right regardless of the cost. A good steward or pastor will not water down the message or bend to those who have itching ears and enjoy pious platitudes. The Apostle Paul admonishes young Timothy to Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long suffering and doctrine, 2 Timothy 4:2.After all there is no reason to be in the pulpit if you are not going to sow the seed and preach the Word.

      Lastly, in our parable of today we see the ultimate reward for the unfaithful steward. The lord of that servant will come in a day when he looketh not for him, and at an hour when he is not aware, and will cut him in sunder, and will appoint him his portion with the unbelievers. 47 And that servant, which knew his lord's will, and prepared not himself, neither did according to his will, shall be beaten with many stripes. 48 But he that knew not, and did commit things worthy of stripes, shall be beaten with few stripes. For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required: and to whom men have committed much, of him they will ask the more, Luke 12:46-48. There is no greater condemnation for the steward than to be applauded by men and condemned by God.

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March 19th

Life with Purpose
Luke 13:6-9

      I understand that it takes about 3 years for a fig tree to bear figs. Here we have a fig tree that should produce figs, but it is fruitless. Sadly, many today take comfort and security in faith, though their lives are governed by self-will. When our hearts are full of self, there is no room for God. In this parable, the owner says cut it down. In light of such a statement, who can take security and comfort from the sincerest faith, which is void of works? In this context, our Lord is emphasizing the necessity of repentance. God's judgment will surely come on the lives of all those who do not repent.

      At the time of Christ, most Jews were confident that their circumcision and their physical decent from Abraham were enough to ensure them a ticket to heaven. It was not. Both John the Baptist and Jesus Christ came preaching the necessity of repentance from sin. We see a very similar situation as we approach the end of the age. Many today assume that profession of faith without repentance from sin is sufficient to secure a ticket to heaven. Sadly, they will come to find as the rebellious Jews our Lord warned, that this is not true.

      Thank God for this story. Although the owner wants to cut it down the keeper of the vineyard asks and receives one more year. God is not willing that any should perish. As we think of God's judgment, we ought not be one who delights in it. God takes no pleasure in the death of the wicked. His will and desire is that all come to repentance. The word repentance means change. Before repentance, we love sin, and are at enmity with God because He demands we repent and bow before Him. We can't understand why God won't just let us do our own thing. After repentance, we love Him and seek to turn from sin. We come to see sin as something evil and destructive. Our hearts are not immune from temptation, but our whole outlook changes and we seek after righteousness rather than self.

      We are not told what happened to this tree, and it is not that important. What is important is that we understand God will not wink at a life lived to self and sin? God demands fruit in the lives of all that believe. I wonder today, are you bearing spiritual fruit in your life?

Luke 13:6-9 He spake also this parable; A certain man had a fig tree planted in his vineyard; and he came and sought fruit thereon, and found none.
[7] Then said he unto the dresser of his vineyard, Behold, these three years I come seeking fruit on this fig tree, and find none: cut it down; why cumbereth it the ground?
[8] And he answering said unto him, Lord, let it alone this year also, till I shall dig about it, and dung it:
[9] And if it bear fruit, well: and if not, then after that thou shalt cut it down.

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March 20th

Counting the Cost
Luke 14:25-30

      In this writer's eyes, this is one of the most poignant of all the parables recorded in the Scriptures. In the 1950's and 60's, a new philosophy was introduced into the Christian faith. It is now called "easy believeism." It is the teaching that all you have to do is accept Christ or make a commitment to Christ. No repentance of sin, no submission to the Holy Spirit, no self-sacrifice, no change in your way of living, and we could go on adinfinitum, (or with endless illustrations), but I think you get the point.

1. Nothing less than the first place in the heart must be offered unto Jesus, verse 26. If there is any other thing in your life that takes first place before Christ, you are not following Him. Even family and loved ones are to be secondary. You may disagree, but that's what the Scripture says, and you can't win an argument with the Bible.
2. We must prize Christ more than life itself, verse 26. Life is something we naturally prize. Satan told God that Job would give up his faith before he would give up his life. Job responded,Though he slay me, yet will I trust in him… Job 13:15.
3. Self-sacrificing is the marching order of the redeemed, verse 27. Christ was crucified for us: are we ready to be crucified for Him or die any other way He wishes? It is the martyr-spirit that was seen in the apostles and should also be seen in us. I know these are harsh words, but they are the words of our Lord.
4. We must forsake the world if we would follow Jesus, verse 33. Now comes a point that gets down to the pocket book. Have you considered that all you have, all property, money, possessions, children, your husband, your wife were given to you by the Lord. You really own nothing, it is only lent to you for a few years.
5 The lost world needs such principles being put into practice to keep it from corruption and decay, verses 34, 35. The world is looking for sincerity and dedication in the Christian, however, when they see only hypocrisy and think they are just as good as we are, we have failed our Lord. It is the prayer of this writer, that this sermonette is not too harsh, but will cause us to reconsider our testimony before the world.

Luke 14:25-30 And there went great multitudes with him: and he turned, and said unto them,
[26] If any man come to me, and hate not his father, and mother, and wife, and children, and brethren, and sisters, yea, and his own life also, he cannot be my disciple.
[27] And whosoever doth not bear his cross, and come after me, cannot be my disciple.
[28] For which of you, intending to build a tower, sitteth not down first, and counteth the cost, whether he have sufficient to finish it?
[29] Lest haply, after he hath laid the foundation, and is not able to finish it, all that behold it begin to mock him,
[30] Saying, This man began to build, and was not able to finish.

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March 21st

Jesus' Warning to the Gentiles
Matthew 24:31-46, Zechariah 2: 7-8

Even before the time that God first promised Abraham that I will bless those that bless you and curse those that curse you. (Genesis 12:3), many nations have tried to annihilate the Jews. God has sometimes used one of these nations to chastise Israel, but those who persisted in their vendetta against the tiny chosen nation have met with ruin.

Zechariah 2: 7-8.Deliver thyself, O Zion, that dwellest with the daughter of Babylon.
For thus saith the LORD of hosts; After the glory hath he sent me unto the nations which spoiled you: for he that toucheth you toucheth the apple of his eye.

Matthew 25:31-46 When the Son of man shall come in his glory, and all the holy angels with him, then shall he sit upon the throne of his glory:
[32] And before him shall be gathered all nations: and he shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd divideth his sheep from the goats:
[33] And he shall set the sheep on his right hand, but the goats on the left.
[34] Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world:
[35] For I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in:
[36] Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me.
[37] Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, and fed thee? or thirsty, and gave thee drink?
[38] When saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in? or naked, and clothed thee?
[39] Or when saw we thee sick, or in prison, and came unto thee?
[40] And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.
[41] Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels:
[42] For I was an hungred, and ye gave me no meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me no drink:
[43] I was a stranger, and ye took me not in: naked, and ye clothed me not: sick, and in prison, and ye visited me not.
[44] Then shall they also answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, or athirst, or a stranger, or naked, or sick, or in prison, and did not minister unto thee?
[45] Then shall he answer them, saying, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye did it not to one of the least of these, ye did it not to me.
[46] And these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal.

Rev. 20: 4. And I saw thrones, and they sat upon them, and judgment was given unto them: and I saw the souls of them that were beheaded for the witness of Jesus, and for the word of God, and which had not worshipped the beast, neither his image, neither had received his mark upon their foreheads, or in their hands; and they lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years.

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March 22nd

The Heart of God
Luke 15:3-7

      In this story, our Lord describes the care of a shepherd for his sheep. This story is not a part of our experience today. Those involved in agricultural pursuits don't often provide the care that our Lord speaks of here. The background of this story is Jesus' practice of eating and drinking with the wrong crowd. Some self-righteous Jews were attacking Jesus for eating and drinking with sinners. They had no love for people, but Jesus had a heart for others.

      I have noticed that there are folk that don't seem to understand what a church is all about. They think that church is like any other organization where people work and advance in some pyramid type of sales program. Nothing could be further from the truth. Church is not about getting, but giving. Here Jesus is giving of Himself in order to bring spiritual help and blessing into the lives of those in need.

      It is sad to think of what happens here. These "spiritual" people had less regard for lost souls, than most shepherds had for lost sheep. If a shepherd with 100 sheep lost even one, he would leave the 99 and seek the lost sheep. This is not to say that the 99 are not important. It is just that the need is with the 1 and not the 99. In this case, the diligent shepherd finds his lost sheep and responds with great joy.

      Think about what is being said here. Most people spend their time doing things for personal pleasure or reward. The heart of God is such that God rejoices when another finds blessing and help. His reward is blessing in the lives of others. His heart rejoices when sinners repent. Our Lord's critics knew nothing about this kind of heart. They sought righteousness for self. They rejoiced when they were exalted over others. You see, when one seeks the pleasures of this world, people recognize the evil, but when one seeks for self in morality and religion, people are often impressed. A person like Jesus is a threat to this kind of religious order. If our faith and spirituality is healthy, our hearts will reflect the heart of Jesus and not his critics. According to this story, His critics had more concern for a lost sheep than for a lost soul.

Luke 15:3-7 And he spake this parable unto them, saying,
[4] What man of you, having an hundred sheep, if he lose one of them, doth not leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness, and go after that which is lost, until he find it?
[5] And when he hath found it, he layeth it on his shoulders, rejoicing.
[6] And when he cometh home, he calleth together his friends and neighbours, saying unto them, Rejoice with me; for I have found my sheep which was lost.
[7] I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance.

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March 23rd

The Lost Coin
Luke 15:8-10

      Have you ever lost money? What did you do to find it? Did you just let it go or did you try to remember where you had it last and what you were doing through out the time that it was lost? Did you ask others to help you? This parable equates the physically lost as the unsaved family member, and the found money with the spiritually found life and what we should be doing in our families to secure that which is lost.

      The coin represents the family member, the unbeliever who is lost. The coin (person) was lost through ignorance or neglect, careless handling, no one telling them of the truth of Jesus Christ. Interestingly, the coin is lost "in the house." Do you know someone in your own family who is not saved, but you have never told them of Jesus? Sadly, the coin does not even know that it is lost. We are to seek the coin diligently. We need to pray for that person faithfully! We need to witness and pray walking, bowing, bending, and kneeling.

      Notice what takes place when that coin is found, when that person repents and comes to know Christ as Savior! Luke 15:9-10 says! " Either what woman having ten pieces of silver, if she lose one piece, doth not light a candle, and sweep the house, and seek diligently till she find it? And when she hath found it, she calleth her friends and her neighbours together, saying, Rejoice with me; for I have found the piece which I had lost. Likewise, I say unto you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth."

      Oh yes, Great Rejoicing among the family and also among the angels in heaven. Have you ever been blessed to have this experience?! It is truly a blessed day when that family member repents and turns to Christ! We then, as saved family members, need to see how important it is to diligently witness and pray for those we know are lost among our own families. We need to pray as never before that the power of the Holy Spirit will convict them of sin. We need to live such godly lives before them that they will truly see the difference in our lives. This is a big one for sure. Our actions speak loud and clear as to whom we really serve.

      Heavenly Father, many of us have unsaved family members! We lift them up to You and ask You to convict them of sin and of salvation. Help us to live faithfully so that they will see You in us. Amen.

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March 24th

The Lost (Prodigal) Sons
Luke 15:11-32

      Many commentators have written pages and books about the three characters in this parable. Ministers have waxed eloquent as to which one of the sons was the prodigal. Others have called the father a prodigal father? It is certain that we see all of the above. The son that demanded his share of the estate was out of line. The son who stayed home and worked was jealous of the other boy's return and expressed himself. The father was negligent in indulging the boy and giving him what he demanded. Yes, all three were wrong in their responsibilities.

      Irresponsible parents and governmental intrusion into the family, such as Social Services, have led to disrespectful children and indulgent parents to the point of no return. In the last century, split families, i.e. one parent homes and liberal educators have permitted Satan to seduce our children and develop a generation of delinquent parents and a-moral children.

      In recent years we have seen where children have murdered their parents in order to get the parent's estate to spend it for the same things the son in the parable demanded his share. In the signs of the end times as recorded in Mark 13:12 Now the brother shall betray the brother to death, and the father the son; and children shall rise up against their parents, and shall cause them to be put to death. There is no question that we are faced with the above in today's society. Surely, we are living in the days immediately before the rapture of the church. Luke 21:28 And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh.

      Lastly, The Prodigal son came to himself, verse 17, and returned to the father in contrition and confession. That is exactly what is needed for us to come to Christ. We need to come to the end of our indulgent life and turn from our wicked ways. This can only become a reality when we admit, as the prodigal did, that we have wasted our lives living for the satisfaction of the flesh and the devil. The Holy Spirit leads us to a better way. That is the Bible way through Christ. John 14:6 Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. There is no other way to heaven, regardless of what our modern society teaches and believes!

Luke 15:11-32 And he said, A certain man had two sons:
[12] And the younger of them said to his father, Father, give me the portion of goods that falleth to me. And he divided unto them his living.
[13] And not many days after the younger son gathered all together, and took his journey into a far country, and there wasted his substance with riotous living.
[14] And when he had spent all, there arose a mighty famine in that land; and he began to be in want.
[15] And he went and joined himself to a citizen of that country; and he sent him into his fields to feed swine.
[16] And he would fain have filled his belly with the husks that the swine did eat: and no man gave unto him.
[17] And when he came to himself, he said, How many hired servants of my father's have bread enough and to spare, and I perish with hunger!
[18] I will arise and go to my father, and will say unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and before thee,
[19] And am no more worthy to be called thy son: make me as one of thy hired servants.
[20] And he arose, and came to his father. But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him.
[21] And the son said unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and in thy sight, and am no more worthy to be called thy son.
[22] But the father said to his servants, Bring forth the best robe, and put it on him; and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet:
[23] And bring hither the fatted calf, and kill it; and let us eat, and be merry:
[24] For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found. And they began to be merry.
[25] Now his elder son was in the field: and as he came and drew nigh to the house, he heard musick and dancing.
[26] And he called one of the servants, and asked what these things meant.
[27] And he said unto him, Thy brother is come; and thy father hath killed the fatted calf, because he hath received him safe and sound.
[28] And he was angry, and would not go in: therefore came his father out, and intreated him.
[29] And he answering said to his father, Lo, these many years do I serve thee, neither transgressed I at any time thy commandment: and yet thou never gavest me a kid, that I might make merry with my friends:
[30] But as soon as this thy son was come, which hath devoured thy living with harlots, thou hast killed for him the fatted calf.
[31] And he said unto him, Son, thou art ever with me, and all that I have is thine.
[32] It was meet that we should make merry, and be glad: for this thy brother was dead, and is alive again; and was lost, and is found.

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March 25th

The Wisdom of the Wicked
Luke 16:1-14

      Some may find this parable troubling. Here we have a crooked servant. He is self serving and wasteful. Because of accusations, he is called to account. He knows that he will not pass the audit. What can he do? By further cheating his master, he secures the favor of others and secures his future. He knows he will be fired for his crooked ways. He has nothing to lose. What is the point? We read, the children of this world are in their generation wiser than the children of light. In other words, people who live after the flesh are better stewards of fleshly things than the righteous.

      We have heard the saying that we can be so heavenly minded that we are of no earthly good. This is the point of our story. You have also heard it takes a thief to catch a thief. This man understood that by giving of financial resources under his control, he could build helpful friendships. Because we rightfully see people like this as corrupt, we avoid this kind of thing. When we do that, we throw out the baby with the bath. Sure people use money to build friendships for an evil purpose. However, we would be wise to use money to build friendships for a good purpose. We read in Deuteronomy 16:19, Thou shalt not wrest judgment; thou shalt not respect persons, neither take a gift: for a gift doth blind the eyes of the wise, and pervert the words of the righteous.

      Knowing the power for evil, God tells us to make to yourselves friends of the mammon of unrighteousness … In other words, we ought to make friends by means of the mammon of unrighteousness. In any healthy relationship whether it is in the church or home, there needs to be an equitable flow of giving and receiving. If the flow becomes too inequitable or one party or the other keeps too close accounts, the relationship suffers. We all feel the need for relationships that go beyond a strict business relationship. However, we would be wise to choose our friends wisely. Making a friend of the servant of our story would be very risky. He was a crook.

Luke.16
[1] And he said also unto his disciples, There was a certain rich man, which had a steward; and the same was accused unto him that he had wasted his goods.
[2] And he called him, and said unto him, How is it that I hear this of thee? give an account of thy stewardship; for thou mayest be no longer steward.
[3] Then the steward said within himself, What shall I do? for my lord taketh away from me the stewardship: I cannot dig; to beg I am ashamed.
[4] I am resolved what to do, that, when I am put out of the stewardship, they may receive me into their houses.
[5] So he called every one of his lord's debtors unto him, and said unto the first, How much owest thou unto my lord?
[6] And he said, An hundred measures of oil. And he said unto him, Take thy bill, and sit down quickly, and write fifty.
[7] Then said he to another, And how much owest thou? And he said, An hundred measures of wheat. And he said unto him, Take thy bill, and write fourscore.
[8] And the lord commended the unjust steward, because he had done wisely: for the children of this world are in their generation wiser than the children of light.
[9] And I say unto you, Make to yourselves friends of the mammon of unrighteousness; that, when ye fail, they may receive you into everlasting habitations.
[10] He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much: and he that is unjust in the least is unjust also in much.
[11] If therefore ye have not been faithful in the unrighteous mammon, who will commit to your trust the true riches?
[12] And if ye have not been faithful in that which is another man's, who shall give you that which is your own?
[13] No servant can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.
[14] And the Pharisees also, who were covetous, heard all these things: and they derided him.

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March 26th

The Unprofitable Servants
Luke 17:1-10

      We want to focus on the last part of this parable today, but we will make mention of the first part as it greatly applies to all of us. Jesus is teaching the disciples the merits of forgiveness. First though, He tells them the warning of bringing any offense to a child and causing them to stumble spiritually. He says that it is impossible that no offense should come, but woe unto the one that brings it. He then brings immediate application in that it would be better for a millstone to be tied around the offender's neck and they be thrown into the sea. We are not to lead children astray by any means whatsoever. He continues in that if a brother offends us, we are to forgive him when he repents, even if he does it time after time. The key here is repentance. Forgiveness can only be accomplished as we submit to the power of the Holy Spirit! Then Jesus mentions faith. Many times we feel inadequate with God's high standards. We see that if we have the faith of a mustard seed, we could move mountains. You see, true faith always involves complete surrender to the will of God!

      Most importantly, we see that as servants of the Lord Jesus Christ, we have a duty to serve Christ! Many times folks seem to think that if they do even one little thing for God that they should receive some kind of special reward, but this is not the case. Instead, Jesus compares us to a servant who has the duty to serve. When we consider the high standards of Christian living, we many times become overwhelmed because we approach these spiritual issues from the flesh. Jesus is teaching an important spiritual lesson here. He died for you and me. He paid the ultimate price for us. He gave His life so that we would not have to. Do you begin to see the importance of living for Christ and obeying His commands? As we submit to His sovereign will in our lives, we are then enabled to fulfill the duties that He requires of us and we do it with great joy in our hearts because we have been saved from eternal damnation! May we really grasp this important truth today and begin to serve Christ faithfully out of our love for Him and His sacrifice for us!

      Dear Lord, how we fail You so often. Please forgive us. Help us to serve You faithfully with the duties You have given us to do. Guide us in Your life giving Word so that we may give all the glory to You. Amen.

Luke.17
[1] Then said he unto the disciples, It is impossible but that offences will come: but woe unto him, through whom they come!
[2] It were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and he cast into the sea, than that he should offend one of these little ones.
[3] Take heed to yourselves: If thy brother trespass against thee, rebuke him; and if he repent, forgive him.
[4] And if he trespass against thee seven times in a day, and seven times in a day turn again to thee, saying, I repent; thou shalt forgive him.
[5] And the apostles said unto the Lord, Increase our faith.
[6] And the Lord said, If ye had faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye might say unto this sycamine tree, Be thou plucked up by the root, and be thou planted in the sea; and it should obey you.
[7] But which of you, having a servant plowing or feeding cattle, will say unto him by and by, when he is come from the field, Go and sit down to meat?
[8] And will not rather say unto him, Make ready wherewith I may sup, and gird thyself, and serve me, till I have eaten and drunken; and afterward thou shalt eat and drink?
[9] Doth he thank that servant because he did the things that were commanded him? I trow not.
[10] So likewise ye, when ye shall have done all those things which are commanded you, say, We are unprofitable servants: we have done that which was our duty to do.

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March 27th

The Importunate Widow and the Judge
Luke 18:1-8

      It is very interesting that before Jesus enters into his parable, we are instructed to pray. Prayer is the seed sown before we act. If we are going to do things on our own, without consulting God's direction first, we are in the same boat as the judge in verse 2. The judge was not interested in the pleading of the woman for justice, because she had nothing to give him. He was on the bench for what monitory value he might receive. Sounds like where we are in America today.

      There are 221 prayers in the Bible, 176 in the Old Testament prayers are found in the Psalms. There are 45 prayers in the New Testament of which 31 are found in the Gospels. It is interesting that people are so quick to say we are not under commandments as they were in the Old Testament, but this will surprise you, there are 1050 commandments found in the New Testament, and prayer is one of them.

      What is prayer? It is communication with God in the name of Jesus and we are to pray in the Spirit. We are not told to pray to the Holy Spirit, but to be spiritually prepared to pray. Not to be seen or heard of men, but to pray in secret and God will answer in secret. Prayer is faith in action! The woman in our parable is insistent and bothersome to the judge, but in persistence he goes to bat for her. If we as Christians, are consistent in our prayers, we will grow spiritually and become more dependent upon God rather than being so self-sufficient. Remember, we are to bathe every activity or decision in prayer. Reading the Bible and prayer are what sustains us and keeps us from sin. If there are problems in your relationship with your spouse or children the answer is in calling out to God for help in times of need.

      Lastly, let us hear and heed the warning of the Lord in Luke 18:8 I tell you that he will avenge them speedily. Nevertheless when the Son of man cometh, shall he find faith on the earth? Will faith be found on the earth, when the Lord returns after the Tribulation? The Church will have been caught out from among the unbelievers; the tribulation saints will have all been killed. The Jews will still be in unbelief until they see His scars and He tells them His brothers have given them to Him. Yes, there will be very little faith at that time.

Luke.18
[1] And he spake a parable unto them to this end, that men ought always to pray, and not to faint;
[2] Saying, There was in a city a judge, which feared not God, neither regarded man:
[3] And there was a widow in that city; and she came unto him, saying, Avenge me of mine adversary.
[4] And he would not for a while: but afterward he said within himself, Though I fear not God, nor regard man;
[5] Yet because this widow troubleth me, I will avenge her, lest by her continual coming she weary me.
[6] And the Lord said, Hear what the unjust judge saith.
[7] And shall not God avenge his own elect, which cry day and night unto him, though he bear long with them?
[8] I tell you that he will avenge them speedily. Nevertheless when the Son of man cometh, shall he find faith on the earth?

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March 28th

The Righteous in Heart
Luke 18: 9-14

      There ought to be little question in anyone's mind that all humanity has seriously lost its way in this world. All of human history reveals man's foolishness, cruelty and oppression of others. Some believe that humanity is on an upward spiral since the beginning of time as man has evolved from a rock. The Bible teaches that we are on our way down apart from God's grace and intervention since the beginning of time when we were created in the image of God.

      Our text for today reveals these same two hearts. The Pharisee is full of pride and self-satisfaction as he compares himself with those around him. He is spiritually blind and corrupt. The tax collector on the other hand, knows his weakness and sin. He feels unworthy of the least of God's blessings and comes to God in simple faith seeking His mercy. The proud Pharisee had only the appearance of righteousness, while the publican opened his heart to the righteousness that only God can give. Thus in our text we read, this man went down to his house justified… If you and I are ever to find righteousness, we must find it from God through sincere and humble faith like this publican.

      Then we read an important Biblical principle. We read, ... every one that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.Jesus said that all that is in the Bible can be reduced to two simple principles. They are love for God and a love for others equal to that we have for ourselves. Prior to the fall, I believe that this principle was a powerful force in the lives of people. When the fall took place, man died spiritually, long before he died physically. Through spiritual death the dominant force in man's heart is self preservation. It is this thoughtless, "every man for himself" heart that is ultimately responsible for all the evil we see in this world. The book of Proverbs tells us that every way of a man is right in his own eyes. Long before anyone does anything purely evil, they justify the behavior in their own hearts and minds. After all, if we don't take care of ourselves, who will? I wonder today, has your heart been lifted to a higher plain than this? It can through faith in Christ.

Luke 18: 9-14 And he spake this parable unto certain which trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and despised others:
[10] Two men went up into the temple to pray; the one a Pharisee, and the other a publican.
[11] The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men are, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican.
[12] I fast twice in the week, I give tithes of all that I possess.
[13] And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as his eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner.
[14] I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other: for every one that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.

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March 29th

The Ten Minas (Pounds)
Luke 19:11-27

      This parable brings us the wonderful picture of responsibility and faithfulness that Jesus Christ has given to those who would live for Him, namely true Christians. It is important to realize that Jesus was nearing Jerusalem and the disciples thought that the New Kingdom was going to immediately appear. Kings in Roman provinces during that time actually went to Rome to receive their kingdoms, including Herod the Great. This also illustrates Jesus Christ, who was soon to depart to receive His kingdom and someday soon will return to rule in the millennium.

      We see that a Minas or Pound is a measure of money slightly more than 3 months salary. Jesus Christ has gifted every true believer with gifts, talents, and abilities to be able to serve Him. He clearly gives us the command to "OCCUPY" until He comes back. He literally has placed His business affairs into the hands of true believers. Reaching others with the Gospel of Jesus Christ! What a glorious privilege indeed!

      We also see that the world hates Jesus Christ and they reject His sovereign rule over them. They refuse to acknowledge Him and surrender their lives to Him. They want to have control of their own lives and sadly these are led to their own their destruction; eternal damnation. On the other hand, true believers will be rewarded according to their faithfulness and the percentage of their labor. As we see in the parable, the one servant labored more than the other and he received that much more. The second one did labor, but not as much as the first and only received his due. The first one gave everything, gave all, and he received much. The second didn't give his all and he only received a little. The third servant did nothing and we see clearly that he received nothing; in fact he was called a wicked servant. He was condemned for what he did not do rather than for what he did. Say, what has God given to you? Are you serving Him faithfully with what He has gifted you in? There is much to do in reaching others for Christ. Prayerfully consider these words and ask God to help you to be faithful to His call for you.

      Dear Lord Jesus, You are our Savior and we thank You for the responsibility You have given to us to tell others of You. Forgive us when we have failed and help us to be faithful. Amen.

Luke 19:11-27 And as they heard these things, he added and spake a parable, because he was nigh to Jerusalem, and because they thought that the kingdom of God should immediately appear.
[12] He said therefore, A certain nobleman went into a far country to receive for himself a kingdom, and to return.
[13] And he called his ten servants, and delivered them ten pounds, and said unto them, Occupy till I come.
[14] But his citizens hated him, and sent a message after him, saying, We will not have this man to reign over us.
[15] And it came to pass, that when he was returned, having received the kingdom, then he commanded these servants to be called unto him, to whom he had given the money, that he might know how much every man had gained by trading.
[16] Then came the first, saying, Lord, thy pound hath gained ten pounds.
[17] And he said unto him, Well, thou good servant: because thou hast been faithful in a very little, have thou authority over ten cities.
[18] And the second came, saying, Lord, thy pound hath gained five pounds.
[19] And he said likewise to him, Be thou also over five cities.
[20] And another came, saying, Lord, behold, here is thy pound, which I have kept laid up in a napkin:
[21] For I feared thee, because thou art an austere man: thou takest up that thou layedst not down, and reapest that thou didst not sow.
[22] And he saith unto him, Out of thine own mouth will I judge thee, thou wicked servant. Thou knewest that I was an austere man, taking up that I laid not down, and reaping that I did not sow:
[23] Wherefore then gavest not thou my money into the bank, that at my coming I might have required mine own with usury?
[24] And he said unto them that stood by, Take from him the pound, and give it to him that hath ten pounds.
[25] (And they said unto him, Lord, he hath ten pounds.)
[26] For I say unto you, That unto every one which hath shall be given; and from him that hath not, even that he hath shall be taken away from him.
[27] But those mine enemies, which would not that I should reign over them, bring hither, and slay them before me.

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March 30th

The Rich Man and Lazarus
Luke 16:19-31

      Most fundamental preachers do not believe this is a parable, nor do I, but because some Bibles call it a parable, we mention it. The above Scripture mentions people by name and this is an opening of the after death experience, in order that we may know the blessings of the righteous dead and the torments and the condemned dead. There are many preachers who do not believe in the resurrection of Christ or the literal place of torment called hell. "Sin" is not mentioned. God is a loving God and He would not send anyone to a place of everlasting anguish and torment, but the Bible says there is such a place; He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. And He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him, John 3:36.

      The rich man cries out for a drop of water to quench his thirst in this flame. Just one drop would help, but there is no way to bring it to him because of the great gulf between the blessed and the suffering. Finally, the rich man in torment pleads for someone to return from the dead and warn his five living brothers. Abraham said in our text "Neither will they be persuaded, though one rose from the dead." How true, the Lord Jesus was raised from the dead and they do not believe to this day.

      As a young preacher, I was involved in a "Good Friday Service" and each of the seven sayings of the cross were used. One of the preachers explained it this way, "God keeps two books, one with all the good deeds and the other with all the bad deeds. At death each book is added up and the book that has the most deeds determines our destiny." My message was on the words "It is finished." I explained that these words were the fulfillment of all Scripture and that the plan of salvation was now fully complete. The gates of heaven are opened to all who receive Christ as their personal Saviour and repent of their sins; they have everlasting life. … For I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day, 2 Timothy 1:12b.

Luke 16:19-31 There was a certain rich man, which was clothed in purple and fine linen, and fared sumptuously every day:
[20] And there was a certain beggar named Lazarus, which was laid at his gate, full of sores,
[21] And desiring to be fed with the crumbs which fell from the rich man's table: moreover the dogs came and licked his sores.
[22] And it came to pass, that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels into Abraham's bosom: the rich man also died, and was buried;
[23] And in hell he lift up his eyes, being in torments, and seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom.
[24] And he cried and said, Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus, that he may dip the tip of his finger in water, and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame.
[25] But Abraham said, Son, remember that thou in thy lifetime receivedst thy good things, and likewise Lazarus evil things: but now he is comforted, and thou art tormented.
[26] And beside all this, between us and you there is a great gulf fixed: so that they which would pass from hence to you cannot; neither can they pass to us, that would come from thence.
[27] Then he said, I pray thee therefore, father, that thou wouldest send him to my father's house:
[28] For I have five brethren; that he may testify unto them, lest they also come into this place of torment.
[29] Abraham saith unto him, They have Moses and the prophets; let them hear them.
[30] And he said, Nay, father Abraham: but if one went unto them from the dead, they will repent.
[31] And he said unto him, If they hear not Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded, though one rose from the dead.

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March 31st

The Truth in Creation
Psalm 19:1-6

      Did you ever stop and think just why it is that God could use simple things from our day to day experience to illustrate spiritual truth? The same God who created all things reveals to us spirituals things. We ought to expect that there would be perfect consistency between the physical world and the spiritual world. In our text we read, (Psalm 19:1) The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handywork.

      The university began during the Middle Ages. During this time, theology was held to be the queen of the sciences. They rightly understood that the key to all knowledge was found in the knowledge of God. Sadly, the enemy has confused many people so that they seek to take worldly principles and integrated them with religion. This is not what our Lord did in His use of parables. He took simple common sense principles and showed how that these commonly held truths reflected important spiritual truth.

      We live in a day when people want to take spiritual things and lock them up behind the four walls of our church. In the law, parents were commanded to take God's Word and teach it to their children as they lived life. Young people needed to be taught that there is no great gulf between this world and the next, but a consistent harmony. One day as Jesus talked to His disciples about basic physical human needs, he told them to seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness and then they would find these other things take care of themselves. Sadly, many of the Lord's people are willing to cut corners morally in order to get ahead in this life. This is a short ride. Success is always quick and easy in sin, but it is always short lived. We find that even those who have been educated beyond their own intelligence lead their day to day lives according to very simple common sense principles. Furthermore, a careful examination will reveal that these common sense principles are consistent with the Ten Commandments and the teaching of Jesus Christ. As Christians, we ought not to be ashamed or apologetic about our faith, but confident. We are leading our lives as we ought.

Pss.19
[1] The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handywork.
[2] Day unto day uttereth speech, and night unto night sheweth knowledge.
[3] There is no speech nor language, where their voice is not heard.
[4] Their line is gone out through all the earth, and their words to the end of the world. In them hath he set a tabernacle for the sun,
[5] Which is as a bridegroom coming out of his chamber, and rejoiceth as a strong man to run a race.
[6] His going forth is from the end of the heaven, and his circuit unto the ends of it: and there is nothing hid from the heat thereof.

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