Lessons From MATTHEW 27:3-52, 28:11-20

SF, Stagecoach, NV

Dear Brothers & Sisters,

     The Lord has me re-reading The Book of Matthew and I think I've been more surprised about how many of Jesus' words I use daily to fight or claim His will in my life.  It’s amazing, yet the Word tells us to stir-up our spirit and meditate on His Word daily.  This truly keeps our focus on “Who’s we are.”

     Some things that are in Matthew are not in any of the other Gospels - so I thought I'd outline them for you to review first.  Hope you enjoy this study as much as I am.  I'll continue this study on Wednesday, Nov 18th.

     Acts 29:1-The End My brothers and sisters we cannot stay as casual Christians, we must grow and bear more fruit to withstand the attacks from the enemy coming.  Matthew has many scriptures to stand on.  Let the Holy Spirit show you. 

     Ever wonder why a non-believer cannot read the Word?  It’s because they don’t have the Holy Spirit to interpret the Word for them, until they receive the anointing from Jesus, as does anyone, who asks Jesus into their heart (1 John 2:18-24) will receive.  Yes, I know there is no Acts 29 anything, for we are the Acts of the disciples and church now.  I wonder what will be written about us in His Book of Remembrance (Malachi 3:16)?  Concerning our obedience to Christ and His Church?  What we accomplished and the miracles used thru us?  Did we walk in His covenant and promise of Exodus 34:10? 

     “Then God said, "Behold, I am going to make a covenant. Before all your people I will perform miracles which have not been produced in all the earth nor among any of the nations; and all the people among whom you live will see the working of the LORD, for it is a fearful thing that I am going to perform with you."

     Tell me, are you expecting this to happen for you?  If not, start praising the Lord for His covenant promise and claim it for yourselves.  He says YOU WILL, but WILL YOU choose to be His hands or what He needs for others to see the working of the Lord through you?

Matthew 27:

     3-10 The death of Judas.  Can you believe Jesus actually kept a thief within His ministry?  He did and you can bet He knew Judas was going to turn Him in after the Passover meal.  This prophecy was from Zechariah 11:12-13, so He knew.

     We have trouble dealing with people who don’t agree with us, even in church.  Let alone one who would turn us in to the authorities, to be judged and hung.

     I may believe in Pre-Tribulation for rapture, but some also believe in Mid-Tribulation or Post-Tribulation.  Who’s right?  We’ll all know the truth when it happens, it should not become a bone of contention between us, but I believe in the scripture in Romans 5:9 “Much more then, having now been justified by His blood, we shall be saved from the wrath of God through Him.”  And since I’m justified by His blood – I will be saved from the wrath of God.

     Also, after Revelation chapter 3, the church is not mentioned again. 

     27:19 The dream of Pilate’s wife.  Pilate seemed more concerned about political expediency than about doing what was right.  He had several opportunities to do what’s right.  His conscience told him Jesus was innocent.  Roman law said an innocent man should not be put to death, and his wife had a troubling dream.  Pilate had no reason to put Jesus to death, except he was afraid of the crowd.

     Crowds are fickle.  They loved Jesus on Sunday, because they thought He was going to start His kingdom.  Then they hated him on Friday when His power appeared broken.  In the face of the mass uprising against Jesus, his friends were afraid to speak up. 

     Would you have?  Or would you be silent, fearing for your own life?  The disciples did not have the NT, so they couldn’t read Revelation 12:11, but you can.  It was mandatory that Jesus went through His suffering and death, as prophesied in Isaiah 53:4-9 to fulfill the OT scriptures of the coming Messiah.

     27:52-53 Other resurrections.   Can you imagine the fear back then – or even today, to see graves opened and the dead rising?  They went into the cities for many to see them. 

     Wow, can you imagine a strange man or woman coming to you saying, hi honey I’m your great-great grandparent, see you soon, keep the faith, there is eternity with God, but Jesus is the only way to heaven?

Matthew 28:

     11-15  Bribery of the guards.  Jesus’ resurrection was already causing a great stir in Jerusalem.  A group of women were moving quickly through the streets looking for the disciples to tell them the news that Jesus was alive.  At the same time, a group of religious leaders were plotting how to cover up the resurrection, by bribing the guards.  It had to be a very good bribe, because the guards would be killed if they fell asleep on duty or lost what they were protecting.

     Today there is still a great stir over the resurrection, and there are still only two choices – to believe Jesus rose from the dead otherwise; denying it, ignoring it, or trying to explain it away.  Either way, believe it or not – it’s our choice.

     19-20 The baptism emphasis in the Great Commission.  We are to go – whether it is next door or to another country – and make disciples.  It is not an option, but a command to all who call Jesus “Lord.”  We are not all evangelists in the formal sense, but we have all received gifts that we can use to help fulfill the Great Commission.  As we obey, we have comfort in the knowledge that Jesus is always with us and in many cases, your testimony is all that’s needed.

     The disciples were to baptize people because baptism unites a believer with Jesus Christ in his or her death to sin and resurrection to a new life.  Baptism represents submission to Christ and a willingness to live God’s way and identification with God’s covenant people.

     The word Trinity is not used in the Bible, but when you are commanded to baptize in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit it does describe the 3 parts (Trinity) of God.

Blessings to you and your family

The Lord’s Servant – Sandy

Lessons From MATTHEW 1:20-24, 2:1-18

SF, Stagecoach, NV

Dear Brothers & Sisters,

     The Lord has me re-reading The Book of Matthew and I think I've been more surprised about how many of Jesus' words I use daily to fight or claim His will in my life.  It’s amazing, yet the Word tells us to stir-up our spirits and meditate in His Word daily.  This truly does remind us of who's in control of our life.

     Some things that are in Matthew are not in any of the other Gospel - so I thought I'd outline them for you to review first.  Hope you enjoy this study as much as I am.  I'll continue this study on Sunday, Nov 15th.

John The Baptist

     John was prophesied in Isaiah 40:30, to prepare the way for Jesus, their Messiah.

     John wanted the people coming for baptism to see the religious men, they were following.  Although times were different, many today are doing the same today, but we call them governments and denominations, not “religious” leaders.  Differences split denominations, as they do today.  For instance:

     Pharisees: were men who were more religiously minded, yet they behaved as though their own religious rules were just as important as God’s rules for living.  Keep in mind, their rules were “man-made” in other words, what they believed should be added to God’s ways, to make you work for your salvation, by being perfect.  Their piety was often hypocritical and their efforts often forced others to try to live up to standards they themselves could/would not live under, so they turned away from “religion”.  Many have left the church for the same reasons.

     Needless to say, we have the same problem with many denominational (man-made) rules who disagreed on how to interpret the Bible.  So they made changes; some harder to live with and others easier to follow. 

     Sadducees: Believed strongly in the Mosaic Law and in Levitical purity.  They were more practically minded than the Pharisees.  But, they relied on (worldly) logic while placing little importance on faith.  They didn’t believe all the Old Testament (OT) was God’s Word.  Nor did they believe in the resurrection, eternal life, angels or demons.  They were often willing to go with the flow of the rulers of that day (Romans).

     Although the groups disliked and distrusted each other, they became allies in their common hatred for Jesus. 

     Tip: Are you following a religious leader who teaches anything other than Jesus’ virgin birth, death, resurrection and His Love walk?  Jesus never went with the religious leaders, because He had a personal relationship with His Father, and wants the same for us, a personal relationship with Him.  For He is the light of the world we should follow (Matthew 5:14, John 8:12, John 9:5) and promises no darkness in Him.

     Passages and subjects in Matthew:

     1:20-24 about Joseph’s dream.  How through hardships he learned to mature in the Love of God and forgiveness of his fellow brothers.  How he learned to interpret dreams, be wise enough to handle the economical tribulation coming to Egypt that would take him to a place, saving all of his family and today’s nation of Israel.

Tip: Notice how God doesn’t do a blessing for just one person, but affects many others and generations to come who receive them.

     2:1-12, The visit of the magi because Jesus was born.  And all they did was follow a bright star to Bethlehem, years in advance.

     2:13-15, Bringing Mary and Joseph 3 gifts that would finance their escape to Egypt for a year or two, preserving the life of Jesus until king Herod was dead. 

     2:16-18, Herods' slaughter of all children 2 years or younger to kill Jesus.  Because Herod was king by human appointment, fearing he’d loose his kingdom to Jesus, because He was king by a divine appointment.

Tip:  Unsaved Mankind and satan are always afraid of what God can and has done for those who have believed on God and Jesus.  The enemy may have some power, BUT we have God’s armor and ALL Authority over him – IF we use it.  We'll discuss the "how to" as we go further into Matthew.

Blessings to you and your families

The Lord's Servant - Sandy

The Stubborn

KS, Carson City, NV

My People,

     So many stubborn ones are going their own way.  Don't you know, stubborn ones, that man's way IS and always has been, the wrong way?
     You continue to go in the opposite direction from ME.  The time comes, and is even upon you, that you no longer have much time to return to ME!  Do you think you can do what you want and that a reckoning will not come?  I warn you that I will deal with you very soon.
      I have dealt with stubborn people in past history, and I will deal with you stubborn ones in the present and future.
     Take MY Warnings to heart, for you will not like it when I deal with you.  Come to ME now.

Revelation 3:19 NKJ

"As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten. 

Therefore be zealous and repent."

Stand-up With The Marters

SF, Stagecoach, NV

Dear Brothers  & Sisters,

     Times may not be as bad in America (YET), as it may be in your country, Christian families are being persecuted for their faith; in God – the Creator, God – the Son and God – the Holy Spirit.  Like us, they’ve never seen Him, but they believe and are willing to beheaded for Him, rather than believe in radical Islamic terrorists.  Are you that willing to fulfill  Revelation 12:10-11?

10  “And I heard a great voice in heaven, saying, Now is come the salvation, and the power, and the kingdom of our God, and the authority of his Christ: for the accuser of our brethren is cast down, who accuseth them before our God day and night.

11  And they overcame him because of the blood of the Lamb, and because of the word of their testimony; and they loved not their life even unto death.”

     I cried when I heard about those parents and children killed, because they refused to acknowledge Islam instead of Jesus.

     Many are denying or falling away from believing in God today.  I think many are accepting those lies because they don’t remember, as the Hebrews forgot.  Remember, many generations were born in Egypt, during their 450 years of captivity.  And we’ve had almost 2,000 years of generations held captive to “religion” and various types of governments throughout the world.  Why?  Because history always repeats itself.  Keep in mind, we’re told the end will be like the beginning (Isaiah 46:9-10).

Romans 10:3  For not knowing about God’s righteousness and seeking to establish their own, they did not subject themselves to the righteousness of God.”

     So many, as in Egypt lost the truth, as we have.  We’ve just gotten comfortable with following man made laws, ruling the lands where we live, not concerned if they go against God’s Word, remaining in bondage of different types.

     Did you know, that when Moses left with the Hebrews, only 10% of them actually when with him?  It’s written in their history books.  That means 90% stayed and went through the 10 plagues, rather than walk with God.  Oh what foolish people we can be, not trusting our Lord to be with us always.

     Will it be the same for you?  Will you choose to live in today and not worry about eternity?  Are you in bondage to any of these?  Think about this, as every prophecy about Jesus was fulfilled and confirmed in His Word, so is the return of Jesus for His saints – are you ready?

Ephesians 5:1-6  1  “Be ye therefore imitators of God, as beloved children;

2  and walk in love, even as Christ also loved you, and gave himself up for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God for an odor of a sweet smell.

3 ¶  But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not even be named among you, as becometh saints;

4  nor filthiness, nor foolish talking, or jesting, which are not befitting: but rather giving of thanks.

5  For this ye know of a surety, that no fornicator, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God.

6  Let no man deceive you with empty words: for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the sons of disobedience.”

Ephesians 5: 12  For our wrestling is not against flesh and blood, but against the principalities, against the powers, against the world–rulers of this darkness, against the spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.

     We truly are in a Spiritual War with satans radicals leading the charge!  So, if you belong to Christ, then stand up and be counted in the spirit and in unit as one body.  Don’t let Proverbs 14:13 become true for you.  Let’s make a loud and continuous noise in Praising our Lord, standing against His enemies. 

Blessings to all of you,

Sandy, The Lord’s Servant

#10 Dealing With Emotions – Emotional Control In A Godly Way.

SF, Stagecoach, NV

Dear Brothers & Sisters,

Topic #10 Emotional Control: Maturity & Fruitfulness

     After studying your emotions and feelings these last couple of months, you may be discouraged especially, if God has convicted you of sin in your life.  REJOICE!  This proves you are sensitive and responsible to the work of the Holy Spirit in your life.  In this final lesson we will study some basic principles of developing spiritual maturity and fruitfulness – ways to strengthen that “new nature” within you.

God’s Desire:

What is God’s desire for you in these scriptures?

1. John 15:16?
2. Romans 8:29?
3. Ephesians 4:12-13?
4. Colossians 1:28?

What provisions does God make to help us develop this maturity and fruitfulness?

1. John 14:16-17, 26?
2. John 16:13-14?
3. Acts 1:8?
4. Hebrews 4:12?
5. 2 Timothy 3:16-17?
6. Psalm 1:1-3?
7. Romans 5:3-5?
8. James 1:2-4?
9. Ephesians 4:11-13?

     Circle any areas in which you are presently experiencing growth in.

     

What are the results of the Spirit-filled life in Ephesians 5:18-21?

What are the results of the Word-filled life in Colossians 3:16-18?

List all the results of abiding in Christ that you can find in John 15:1-14 and compare it with Psalm 91.

Sometimes our very failures or weaknesses become blessings because they make us depend more on God.  Share the experience you have had of abiding in Christ recently.

Christian Maturity:

This study has stressed the importance of developing and living a mature Christian character.  List the fruit which will result when a person is filled and controlled by the Holy Spirit.

1. Galatians 5:22-23?
2. John 4:35-36?
3. Colossians 1:10?

     Thank God that He is able to develop this fruit in you.

Name the process which must take place in order for us to mature spiritually in:

1. Galatians 2:20?
2. Ephesians 3:16-19?
3. Colossians 3:1-3?

     How has this process been experienced in your life?

In 1 Corinthians 13:1-3, 13 and Colossians 3:14 emphasize the importance of being controlled by what characteristic?

     Do you need more of this virtue?  Claim Romans 5:5.

Application:

1. Becoming like Christ involves spending time with Him (Isaiah 40:31).  How much time do you spend each day with Him in prayer and Bible Study?  ________.
2. Are you accepting your trials and problems as one of God’s methods of bringing spiritual maturity and growth into your life?
3. Have you asked to be filled with the Holy Spirit?  _______
   Thank Him for this provision.

Prayer:

     Father, send your Holy Spirit into my heart, so that all of my emotions may be under His control and guidance.  And bring me into fruitfulness and spiritual maturity, for the sake of Your Kingdom.

     Father, I give you my spirit, soul and body to change as needed to serve You.  Let me be a living sacrifice and bring Glory and Honor, that only You deserve, for the life You’ve given me. – AMEN in Jesus Name.

I pray that this study has helped you, as much as it’s helped me growing stronger and walking closer in the Lord.

Blessings – The Lord’s Servant – Sandy F.

#9 Dealing With Emotions – Selfishness & Self-pity In A Godly Way.

SF, Stagecoach, NV

Dear Brothers & Sisters,

Topic #9 Selfishness & Self-pity: Double Trouble

     Selfishness has been cited as the greatest single enemy to a happy marriage. Selfishness causes strife and unhappiness in many other relationships too.

Me, Myself and I

Fill in the scriptures below with the Person and Warning-Promise with each.

                                                Person;          Warning-Promise

1. Mark 12:41-44?
2. Mark 10-17-22?
3. Luke 12:16-21?
4. Luke 7:41-48?

In 1 Timothy 6:8-10 what is described as the root of all evil?

     Give examples or illustrations and how would you describe someone who has each problem?

What answer does Jesus give for the problem?

1. Matthew 6:33
2. Matthew 10:38-39?
3. Mark 8:34-37?
4. John 12:24-26?

Look at some biblical examples of unselfishness and list the Person and Warning-Promise of each:

                                                            Person;          Warning-Promise

1.     Genesis 13:5-11?

2.     Genesis 26:18-22?

3.     1 Samuel 1:24-28?

4.    John 12:3-7?

5.     Acts 2:42-47?

     Can you think of other examples?

What are two specific changes you can make to become less selfish?

What should be our main interest and concern be?

1. 1 Corinthians 10:24?
2. 2 Corinthians 5:15?
3. Philippians 2:4, 21?

     How does this apply to your family, home, neighbor or place of work?

Self-Pity

     Focusing our thoughts on ourselves, problems or failures encourages self-pity to develop.  Describe someone you know who engages in self-pity.  Do you like being with that person?

     The primary cause of depression is self-pity.  Self-pity can be triggered by anger or resentment over unfair treatment, or by your adverse circumstances.  What principles are forgotten when we indulge in self-pity?

1. Romans 8:28?
2. 1 Corinthians 10:13?
3. Ephesians 4:30, 32?
4. Philippians 4:6-7?
5. 1 Thessalonians 5:18-19?
6. James 1:2-3?

Before you can begin to overcome self-pity or selfishness, you must recognize it as sin in God’s sight.

1. Confess it as sin and receive God’s cleansing (1 John 1:9; Psalm 51:10)
2. Ask God to change your patterns of thinking and reacting.
3. Praise God for His victory (1 John 4:4, Philippians 4:13)
4. Ask to be filled with the Holy Spirit and controlled by Him (Ephesians 5:18)

Application:

     Do at least two things for others this week that you do not normally do.

     Learn to confess your self-pity immediately rather than wallowing in it.

     How can you develop unselfishness in your children?

Prayer:

     Dear Lord, I thank you for Your unselfishness in sending Your own Son to die because of my sin.  Give us the power to overcome self in my life and to shun self-pity.  I pray with a grateful heart.  AMEN

I’ll continue Friday  11/06/15 with “Topic #10 -Dealing With Emotional Control In A Godly Way”.

Blessings – The Lord’s Servant – Sandy F.

#8 Dealing With Emotions – Pride In A Godly Way.

SF, Stagecoach, NV

Dear Brothers & Sisters,

Topic #8 Pride: An Abomination To God

     Pride in the sense of self-esteem, is good.  However, in the Bible pride refers to conceit, arrogance, feelings of superiority and boasting.  This kind of pride can be caused by feelings of inferiority and insecurity, self-centered or intellectualism.

     Underline any of the following feelings you have experienced.

1. You don’t like to be criticized, but you tend to be critical of others.
2. You are embarrassed by your spouses (or parents, friends, children) because of their lack of education, position or appearance.
3. You feel your talents and gifts have not been properly recognized.
4. If you can’t be the leader of a group, you don’t want to be involved.
5. You tend to look down on others and feel you are superior.
6. You resent someone else’s ability or talents.

An Abomination

What does God say about pride?

1. Proverbs 6:16-17?
2. Proverbs 8:13?
3. Proverbs 16:5?
4. Proverbs 16:18?
5. Proverbs 21:4?

Who is the originator of Pride on earth?

Read Isaiah 14:12-14, comparing it with Ezekiel 28:12-18.  How many “I wills” do you count in Isaiah 14?  ________ is pride personified.

From the illustration given in Luke 18:10-14, list characteristics of each person.  What was the final result for each one?

Have you ever been guilty of depending on your own goodness rather than on God’s grace?  _____

Servant Spirit

What commands are given relating to humility and meekness?

1. 1 Corinthians 1:31?
2. 1 Timothy 6:11?
3. 2 Timothy 2:25?
4. Titus 3:2?

What promises are given for the humble?

1. 2 Chronicles 7:4?
2. Isaiah 57:15?
3. Matthew 5:5?
4. James 4:6-10?
5. 1 Peter 5:5-6?

What is Jesus’ example?

1. Matthew 11:29?
2. 2 Corinthians 10:1?
3. Philippians 2:5-8?

List several ways you can humble yourself (Philippians 2:7-8)

How did Jesus become a servant to the disciples (John 13:4-17)

     List an example, command and promise from this passage regarding becoming a servant.

Application:

     Confess your pride as sin.  As we come to recognize sin in our lives, we can appreciate God’s grace to a greater extent.

     Ask God to give you a servant spirit.

     Realize the twerp (satan) is tempting you with a proud spirit.  Claim the protection of Ephesians 6:10-18 against his attacks.

Prayer:

     Father, I confess to you my pride.  Humble me before you that I may seek to serve you with gladness and singleness of heart.  I claim 2 Chronicles 7:14 (personalized)  If I, called by Your name, humble myself, and pray, and seek Your face, and turn from my wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive my sin, and You will heal my land.  I Praise You that no word shall return void without fulfilling what it was sent to accomplish.  AMEN

I’ll continue Wednesday  11/04/15 with “Topic #9 -Dealing With Selfishness & Self-pity In A Godly Way”.

Blessings – The Lord’s Servant – Sandy F.