John 11:1-45: Jesus Wept

John 11:1-45: Jesus Wept

John 11:11-46 is the story of the amazing miracle of Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead.  However, I am going to focus on the two most profound words from that historical account.

John 11:35, "Jesus wept," is the shortest verse in the Bible (To be technical 1 Thessalonians 5:16 also only has 2 words "Rejoice evermore," but John 11:35 has less letters and less syllables), yet it is a very powerful verse.

Jesus' friend Lazarus had just died, and Jesus had been summoned by His close friends, the sisters of Lazarus, Mary and Martha.

Jesus is aware that Lazarus had died before being told because He is the all-knowing Son of God.  Therefore, Jesus does not weep because He had just received the terrible news that His friend had died.  He also knows He is about to raise Lazarus from the dead (John 11:11-14  [Jesus] saith unto them, "Our friend Lazarus sleepeth; but I go, that I may awake him out of sleep." Then said His disciples, "Lord, if he sleep, he shall do well" Howbeit Jesus spake of his death: but they thought that He had spoken of taking of rest in sleep. Then said Jesus unto them plainly, "Lazarus is dead."), therefore, He has no reason to grieve. It is not until He arrived to see Lazarus to see His friends weeping that He is moved by a great compassion for them.  His tears are ones of love and sympathy, not of loss.   That is why John 11:35 is so moving, we see the tenderheartedness from Jesus when He witnesses His friends hurting.  Verse 33 says, "He groaned in the spirit, and was troubled."  

It is amazing to know I serve such a benevolent Savior!  My tears and hurts may not literally cause Him to cry, but I know that He cares about my hurts and my heart breaks.  He may not always fix the problem, but He gives me the peace and joy to endure, and He loves me and truly had compassion over my tears.

(John 11:1-5, 17, 20-27, 31-45) Now a certain man was sick, named Lazarus, of Bethany, the town of Mary and her sister Martha. (It was that Mary which anointed the Lord with ointment, and wiped his feet with her hair, whose brother Lazarus was sick.) Therefore his sisters sent unto him, saying, "Lord, behold, he whom thou lovest is sick."

When Jesus heard that, He said, "This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God might be glorified thereby."

Now Jesus loved Martha, and her sister, and Lazarus.

Then when Jesus came, He found that he had lain in the grave four days already.

Then Martha, as soon as she heard that Jesus was coming, went and met Him: but Mary sat still in the house.

Then said Martha unto Jesus, "Lord, if thou hadst been here, my brother had not died. But I know, that even now, whatsoever thou wilt ask of God, God will give it thee."

Jesus saith unto her, "Thy brother shall rise again."

Martha saith unto him, "I know that he shall rise again in the resurrection at the last day."

Jesus said unto her, "I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live: And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this?"

She saith unto Him, "Yea, Lord: I believe that thou art the Christ, the Son of God, which should come into the world."

The Jews then which were with her in the house, and comforted her, when they saw Mary, that she rose up hastily and went out, followed her, saying, "She goeth unto the grave to weep there."

Then when Mary was come where Jesus was, and saw Him, she fell down at his feet, saying unto him, "Lord, if thou hadst been here, my brother had not died."

When Jesus therefore saw her weeping, and the Jews also weeping which came with her, he groaned in the spirit, and was troubled. And said, "Where have ye laid him? "

They said unto him, "Lord, come and see."

Jesus wept.

Then said the Jews, Behold how he loved him!

And some of them said, "Could not this man, which opened the eyes of the blind, have caused that even this man should not have died?"

Jesus therefore again groaning in himself cometh to the grave. It was a cave, and a stone lay upon it.

Jesus said, "Take ye away the stone. "

Martha, the sister of him that was dead, saith unto him, "Lord, by this time he stinketh: for he hath been dead four days."

Jesus saith unto her, "Said I not unto thee, that, if thou wouldest believe, thou shouldest see the glory of God?"

Then they took away the stone from the place where the dead was laid. And Jesus lifted up his eyes, and said, "Father, I thank thee that thou hast heard me. And I knew that thou hearest me always: but because of the people which stand by I said it, that they may believe that thou hast sent me."

And when he thus had spoken, He cried with a loud voice, "Lazarus, come forth."

And he that was dead came forth, bound hand and foot with graveclothes: and his face was bound about with a napkin. Jesus saith unto them, "Loose him, and let him go."

Then many of the Jews which came to Mary, and had seen the things which Jesus did, believed on Him.

John 10: Jesus, our Good Shepherd

 

John 10: Jesus, our Good Shepherd

After reading John chapter 10, I would like to expand a bit more on Jesus being our Good Shepherd.

In 2017 I read a book by Phillip Keller titled “A Shepherd Looks at Psalm 23.”  I have not enjoyed a non-fiction book as much as this one (not counting the Bible, of course).  Keller preaches the Truth so eloquently that it struck me to the core. He opened up the world of shepherds I never knew.  After reading his book, the 23rd Psalm, as well as the fact that Jesus refers to Himself as our Good Shepherd, makes this comparison so much more meaningful.  Real sheep 100% rely on their shepherd to properly care for them.  A bad shepherd has underfed sheep full of parasites living in dying pastures.  Just like Jesus, a good shepherd takes care of His sheep’s every need.  He takes great care moving his sheep from pasture to pasture in order to assure they always have plenty of green grass.  He anticipates their every need.  (Please read Keller’s book, he says it so much better, and you will see the Bible in a completely new light.)

Only our True Shepherd may enter through the correct door to our hearts.  The thief and robber, Satan, may try to gain access, but the sheep (the true believer) will not recognize his voice, and will not let him in.  Or should not let Satan enter.  When we first submit to God, then resist the devil in the name of Jesus, Satan will flee.

(James 4:7) Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. 

Our Good Shepherd protects not only the doors to our heart, but literally laid His life down for us. Jesus is the door of life.  Jesus longs only for good things for our lives (see Jeremiah 29:11), and desires that we may lie down in green, lush, beautiful pastures next to still waters.  He longs for a life full of abundance, or full of plentiful blessings.   

Satan is the door of death.  Why would you choose to walk through a dark and twisted door that would only steal, kill, and destroy your soul? 

Do not waste your life waiting to decide whom you will follow and allow access to the door of your heart.  Choose today whom you will serve.  Make Jesus Lord of your heart, mind, body, and soul.  Lock the door of your heart to the sins of this world and do your very best to walk down paths of righteousness.    

 

I would also like to revisit the parable of Jesus and the Lost Sheep, my favorite parable from Jesus.  It is proof that Jesus loves us and does not want any of us to perish spiritually.  He is actively seeking out each and every one of us and wants to welcome us into His fold.

There is more than one version of this parable, so I'll start with the one from Matthew (read also Luke 15:1-7):

(Matthew 18:10-14) “Take heed that you do not despise one of these little ones, for I say to you that in heaven their angels always see the face of My Father who is in heaven. For the Son of Man has come to save that which was lost.  “What do you think? If a man has a hundred sheep, and one of them goes astray, does he not leave the ninety-nine and go to the mountains to seek the one that is straying?  And if he should find it, assuredly, I say to you, he rejoices more over that sheep than over the ninety-nine that did not go astray.  Even so it is not the will of your Father who is in heaven that one of these little ones should perish.  

 
Jesus already gave His life for us.  He shed His holy, sinless blood on the cross with the desire that we might live with Him forever. 
 
(John 3:16) For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.  

 
Christ does not have to do anything else; it is up to us to choose to accept God's precious gift.  Yet, in spite of this fact, God still actively seeks each of us out and calls us to Him.  He will search for the one lost sheep that has wandered away.

 I would next like to focus on what it means to be lost.  The Bible makes it clear that we are all like sheep that have gone astray.   
 
(Isaiah 53:5-6) But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities; The chastisement for our peace was upon Him, And by His stripes we are healed. All we like sheep have gone astray; We have turned, every one, to his own way; And the Lord has laid on Him the iniquity of us all.

Or to put it another way:
 
(Romans 3:23) For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.  

 
Which means we are all in need of God's saving grace.  
 
We all have sinned, but being a lost sheep does not just refer to those who have yet to receive Christ as their Savior.  For one thing, we all sin every day. Although we do not lose our salvation with every minor sin, we still should daily confess our sins.  There are those, however, who have been saved and have backslidden.  Therefore, to me this parable is also about those who received Christ as Lord of their life, then later fell away.  In other words, one can become lost again.
 
(Revelation 2:5) Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent and do the first works, or else I will come to you quickly and remove your lampstand from its place—unless you repent.  

 
There is no shame in admitting that we have done wrong and allow God to change us from the inside out.  Sometime that requires a daily cleansing and always a daily self-examination of our hearts.
 
(Psalm 119:175-176) Let my soul live, and it shall praise You; And let Your judgments help me. I have gone astray like a lost sheep;

Seek Your servant, For I do not forget Your commandments.

(Psalm 139:23-24 ) Search me, O God, and know my heart; Try me, and know my anxieties; And see if there is any wicked way in me,

And lead me in the way everlasting.

Jesus loves us all very much and wants to rescue us from a life of sin.  He will never stop chasing us.  His Word shows He has compassion for us and longs to capture us forever.  He wants to teach us, guide us, direct us, encourage us.  He wants us to cling to the folds of His robes and learn at His feet (by reading the Bible).
 
(Mark 6:34) And Jesus, when He came out, saw a great multitude and was moved with compassion for them, because they were like sheep not having a shepherd. So He began to teach them many things.  

 
Once we have been rescued, we are to remain changed.  We are not to give into the temptations of the world.  Reading the words of Jesus will really encourage and guide you in your daily walk.  Obviously, there is nothing wrong with the Old Testament and I love and study the entire bible.  However, if you truly want to learn and grow and be rescued, studying the gospels and really allowing Jesus' own words to sink deep into your heart and soul will transform you.  I can say from experience that really focusing on the words of Christ will make you calmer and feel more at peace with everyday life.  It will make it easier to live a life set apart from the ways of the world.   
 
(1 Peter 2:1-3 & 21-25) Therefore, laying aside all malice, all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and all evil speaking, as newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby, if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is gracious. For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that you should follow His steps: “Who committed no sin, Nor was deceit found in His mouth”; who, when He was reviled, did not revile in return; when He suffered, He did not threaten, but committed Himself to Him who judges righteously; who Himself bore our sins in His own body on the tree, that we, having died to sins, might live for righteousness—by whose stripes you were healed.  For you were like sheep going astray, but have now returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls.  

Jesus referred to Himself as "The Good Shepherd," and He is indeed good.  Life is often full of pain, sorrow, and frustration, but God's love never changes.  Jesus is the only way to Salvation and a life of peace. 

Since I started with the Parable of the Lost Sheep from Matthew, I will end with the version of Luke: 

I will end by tying this all together with John 10.

(John 10:1-18 & 27) [Jesus said] "Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that entereth not by the door into the sheepfold, but climbeth up some other way, the same is a thief and a robber. But he that entereth in by the door is the shepherd of the sheep. To him the porter openeth; and the sheep hear his voice: and he calleth his own sheep by name, and leadeth them out. And when he putteth forth his own sheep, he goeth before them, and the sheep follow him: for they know his voice And a stranger will they not follow, but will flee from him: for they know not the voice of strangers..."

Then said Jesus unto them again, "Verily, verily, I say unto you, I am the door of the sheep. All that ever came before me are thieves and robbers: but the sheep did not hear them. I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture. The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep. But he that is an hireling, and not the shepherd, whose own the sheep are not, seeth the wolf coming, and leaveth the sheep, and fleeth: and the wolf catcheth them, and scattereth the sheep. The hireling fleeth, because he is an hireling, and careth not for the sheep. I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine. As the Father knoweth me, even so know I the Father: and I lay down my life for the sheep. And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd. Therefore doth my Father love me, because I lay down my life, that I might take it again. No man taketh it from me, but I lay it down of myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again. This commandment have I received of my Father."

"My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me."

John 8:12-59: Do you hear and believe the words of Jesus?

John 8:12-59: Do you hear and believe the words of Jesus?

In John 8:12-59, Jesus again is being questioned by the Pharisees and other Jews.  They accuse Him of having a devil and want to kill Him.

I imagine it must have been so frustrating for Jesus to have to continually try to convince others that He was the Son of God.  They were always arguing with Him and calling Him a liar.  Yet He always took the time to explain Himself and tried to convince them of His identity.

You will see in verse 30 that some did allow their hearts to soften and believed Him.  I love where it says in verse 47, "He that is of God heareth God's words: ye therefore hear them not, because ye are not of God."  Sums it up quite nicely.

More amazingly, with all their animosity and disbelief, Jesus was still willing to die for their sins! He was also willing to do the same for us! May we always show Him respect by believing He is the divine Son of God!

(John 8:12-16, 23-36, 42-50, & 59) Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, "I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life."

The Pharisees therefore said unto him, "Thou bearest record of thyself; thy record is not true."

Jesus answered and said unto them, "Though I bear record of myself, yet my record is true: for I know whence I came, and whither I go; but ye cannot tell whence I come, and whither I go... my judgment is true: for I am not alone, but I and the Father that sent me."

And He said unto them, "Ye are from beneath; I am from above: ye are of this world; I am not of this world. I said therefore unto you, that ye shall die in your sins: for if ye believe not that I am he, ye shall die in your sins."

Then said they unto Him, "Who art thou?"

And Jesus saith unto them, "Even the same that I said unto you from the beginning. I have many things to say and to judge of you: but He that sent me is true; and I speak to the world those things which I have heard of Him."

They understood not that he spake to them of the Father.

Then said Jesus unto them, "When ye have lifted up the Son of man, then shall ye know that I am He, and that I do nothing of myself; but as my Father hath taught me, I speak these things. And He that sent me is with me: the Father hath not left me alone; for I do always those things that please him."

As He spake these words, many believed on Him.

Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on Him," If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free."

"They answered him, We be Abraham's seed, and were never in bondage to any man: how sayest thou, Ye shall be made free?"

Jesus answered them, "Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whosoever committeth sin is the servant of sin. And the servant abideth not in the house for ever: but the Son abideth ever. If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed."

Jesus said unto them, "If God were your Father, ye would love me: for I proceeded forth and came from God; neither came I of myself, but he sent me. Why do ye not understand my speech? even because ye cannot hear my word. Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it. And because I tell you the truth, ye believe me not. Which of you convinceth me of sin? And if I say the truth, why do ye not believe me? He that is of God heareth God's words: ye therefore hear them not, because ye are not of God."

Then answered the Jews, and said unto Him, "Say we not well that thou art a Samaritan, and hast a devil?"

Jesus answered, "I have not a devil; but I honour my Father, and ye do dishonour me. And I seek not mine own glory: there is one that seeketh and judgeth."

Then took they up stones to cast at him: but Jesus hid himself, and went out of the temple, going through the midst of them, and so passed by.

John 5:5-23: You Cannot Put God in a Box

 

John 5:5-23: You Cannot Put God in a Box

In John 5, Jesus heals a crippled man on the Sabbath and then tells the healed man to take up his "bed and walk."  The man is not aware it is Jesus that has healed him but later identifies Jesus as his healer to the Pharisees.  They become angry with Jesus for healing on a Sabbath and instructing the man to carry his mat.  Where is the awe at the miracle Jesus performed?

Sometimes I think Jesus enjoyed showing the hypocritical "religious" leaders that they could not place God in a box.  You cannot confine God to man's laws.  Jesus wants us to keep the Sabbath holy as a way to honor Him (Exodus 20:8), but He also realizes that there are some things that are not considered a sin, such as carrying a mat.  Also, if a good deed can be done that requires work on the Sabbath, why would one refuse to help simply because it is a Saturday or Sunday.  I do not believe Jesus cares which day you choose for some form of Sabbath as long as you set aside a special day for God.  We should honor God 7 days a week, of course, but choosing one day a week for extra Bible study, praise, and prayer is a great way to honor the King of Kings.

I like Jesus' answer in verse 17, "My Father worketh hitherto, and I work " In other words, the Holy Trinity always has work to do and no man nor any of man's laws can prevent God from doing whatever He wants whenever He wants!  

Be careful not to put Jesus into a box - He cannot and should not be confined. 

In my opinion, man-made religions are the biggest offenders of placing God in a box.  How can one define a religion as man-made?  I do not mean the laws of Jesus Christ, but religion created by man-made traditions. What I have is a relationship with my Creator.  It is personal and different for everyone.  When we confine God to ritual and obligation, we limit the spontaneous experiences.  By this I mean if we read liturgy or follow the exact same routine in church every week, we quench the leading of God's spirit.  When we pray, we should pray from our heart and use our own words, no matter if we think we sound awkward or don't quite know how to word ourselves. 
 
Religion is a thousand different denominations.  Relationship with God is a one-on-one experience.  If you go to church and only say and do what your leaders tell you to do without considering what Jesus tells you to do or not to do, you are into religion.  If you only believe what you hear and never seek Biblical Truths apart from what others tell you, you are into religion.  

Read your Bible and study on your own.  Closely examine every book of the Bible.  Not everything the church teaches is accurate.  I promise if you start reading your Bible outside of a group, you will often find yourself sitting in church saying, "That's not what the Bible teaches."  

My point is, not seeking God's face and discovering who He can be to you is keeping God in a box.  When you meet someone for the first time, do you take all the rumors you've heard about him at face value?  Or do you get to know this person based on forming your own opinions?  

Would you get married and then never talk to your spouse?  Would you tell yourself you knew your mate well enough before you got married so you don't bother trying to learn all his layers and all he has to offer?  Would your love for each other stop growing after the wedding?  I sure hope not!  No, you would continue to get to know every nuance about each other and fall more and more in love. The same attitude should be applied to Jesus.  Get to know Him better and better.  Walking with the Lord means you never stop learning and growing in Christ.  

The more you grow in Christ, the more He outgrows that tiny box, and you will see just how truly limitless God truly is!

(John 5:5-23) And a certain man was there, which had an infirmity thirty and eight years.

When Jesus saw him lie, and knew that he had been now a long time in that case, he saith unto him, "Wilt thou be made whole?..." Jesus saith unto him, "Rise, take up thy bed, and walk." And immediately the man was made whole, and took up his bed, and walked: and on the same day was the sabbath.

The Jews therefore said unto him that was cured, "It is the sabbath day: it is not lawful for thee to carry thy bed."

He answered them, "He that made me whole, the same said unto me, 'Take up thy bed, and walk.'"

Then asked they him, "What man is that which said unto thee, "'Take up thy bed, and walk?'"

And he that was healed wist not who it was: for Jesus had conveyed himself away, a multitude being in that place. 

Afterward Jesus findeth him in the temple, and said unto him, "Behold, thou art made whole: sin no more, lest a worse thing come unto thee."

The man departed, and told the Jews that it was Jesus, which had made him whole. And therefore did the Jews persecute Jesus, and sought to slay him, because he had done these things on the sabbath day.

But Jesus answered them, "My Father worketh hitherto, and I work."

Therefore the Jews sought the more to kill him, because he not only had broken the sabbath, but said also that God was his Father, making himself equal with God.

Then answered Jesus and said unto them, "Verily, verily, I say unto you, The Son can do nothing of himself, but what he seeth the Father do: for what things soever he doeth, these also doeth the Son likewise. For the Father loveth the Son, and sheweth him all things that himself doeth: and he will shew him greater works than these, that ye may marvel. For as the Father raiseth up the dead, and quickeneth them; even so the Son quickeneth whom he will. For the Father judgeth no man, but hath committed all judgment unto the Son: That all men should honour the Son, even as they honour the Father. He that honoureth not the Son honoureth not the Father which hath sent him."

Luke 22:31-32: Jesus prays for us!

 

Luke 22:31-32: Jesus prays for us!

This portion in Luke 22 is very rich. Verse 31 says, "And the Lord said, "Simon, Simon, behold, Satan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat."

This shows that our lives/souls are being fought over by both sides of heaven and hell.  Be not deceived that Satan desires to steal every single human soul away from God's eternal Kingdom.

Ephesians 6:12 tells us, "For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places." 

There is an ever-going-on war for our souls.  We must arm ourselves against this battle by reading scripture and keeping in contact with God daily in prayer.

The good news is that in verse 32, Jesus tells Peter, "But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren."

Romans 8:26 also beautifully states, "Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered."

It is so amazing to know He intercedes for us.  Jesus fights for us because He does not want anyone to go to hell.

(2 Peter 3:9) The Lord is... longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.

He also desires our souls so we can be strong in our faith and minister to others.  With God on our side, we will win the war and devote our lives and souls to God for all eternity.

Luke 17 & 22: Where the Eagles Gather

 

Luke 17 & 22: Where the Eagles Gather

Rather than writing commentary on these passages, I will do what is always best, let the Words of God speak for themselves and pray they give you wisdom.  

**Fellow believers, please let's not divide on this issue. Prayerfully study God's Word and love one another whether you agree or disagree.**

If you would like more commentary on the subject, feel free to see the links at the end of this writing.

(Luke 17:26-30 & 34-37 ) [Jesus said,] "And as it was in the days of Noah, so shall it be also in the days of the Son of man. They did eat, they drank, they married wives, they were given in marriage, until the day that Noah entered into the ark, and the flood came, and destroyed them all. Likewise also as it was in the days of Lot; they did eat, they drank, they bought, they sold, they planted, they builded; But the same day that Lot went out of Sodom it rained fire and brimstone from heaven, and destroyed them all. Even thus shall it be in the day when the Son of man is revealed."

"I tell you, in that night there shall be two men in one bed; the one shall be taken, and the other shall be left. Two women shall be grinding together; the one shall be taken, and the other left. Two men shall be in the field; the one shall be taken, and the other left."

And they answered and said unto Him, "Where, Lord?"

And He said unto them, "Wheresoever the body is, thither will the eagles be gathered together." [NOTE: Jesus does NOT say they are taken in a pre-tribulation rapture.)

(See also Job 39:27 & 30 - Doth the eagle mount up at thy command, and make her nest on high? Her young ones also suck up blood: and where the slain are, there is she.)

(Luke 21:7-11, 20-22, 25-28) And they asked Him, saying, "Master, but when shall these things be? and what sign will there be when these things shall come to pass?"

And He said, "Take heed that ye be not deceived: for many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and the time draweth near: go ye not therefore after them. But when ye shall hear of wars and commotions, be not terrified: for these things must first come to pass; but the end is not by and by."

Then said He unto them, "Nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: And great earthquakes shall be in divers places, and famines, and pestilences; and fearful sights and great signs shall there be from heaven. And when ye shall see Jerusalem compassed with armies, then know that the desolation thereof is nigh. Then let them which are in Judaea flee to the mountains; and let them which are in the midst of it depart out; and let not them that are in the countries enter thereinto."

"For these be the days of vengeance, that all things which are written may be fulfilled. And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring; Men's hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth: for the powers of heaven shall be shaken. AND THEN shall they see the Son of man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh."

Links to other writings on the subject of the timing of Jesus' return:

Please Do Not Let Fear Influence What You Believe https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2025/10/please-do-not-let-fear-influence-what.html

Discerning the Signs of the Times https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2025/09/discerning-signs-of-times.html

 Zephaniah 2:3The Great Day of the Lord, Written by my Husband https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2025/07/zephaniah-23-great-day-of-lord-written.html

Mark 13:3-8, 13-14, 21-27, & 32-37: "When shall these things be?" https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2026/01/mark-133-8-13-14-21-27-32-37-when-shall.html

Questions and Answers About the Rapture https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2025/07/questions-and-answers-about-rapture.html

There's Hope for All Who Follow the Instructions https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2025/10/theres-hope-for-all-who-follow.html

The Truth About the Second Coming of Christ, Written by my Husband https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2025/11/the-truth-about-second-coming-of-christ.html

Dream of the Return of Christ and Preparation for his Coming, Written by my Husband https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2017/04/dream-of-return-of-christ-by-mel.html

Revelation 3:1-22: The Seven Churches: Part Two, Written by my Husband https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2025/05/revelation-31-22-seven-churches-part.html

Luke 14:26-30 & 33: Consider the Cost

 

 Luke 14:26-30 & 33: Consider the Cost

Luke 14:28 says, "For which of you, intending to build a tower, sitteth not down first, and counteth the cost..."

This portion of scripture made sense to me for the first time 9 years ago.  Jesus is saying that we must be prepared to lose it all if we want to follow Him.  You must consider what following Jesus (building a spiritual tower) may cost you.  It is a very real possibility that friends and relatives will desert you when you choose Jesus and a moral lifestyle.  Especially if your new beliefs go against their own or if you are now giving up hanging out with them at the bars, watching movies with them, etc.  The world is more than happy to make fun of you and call you judgmental when you choose to follow the ways of the Bible rather than the ungodly ways of the world.  

Verse 30 says the one who does not finish his tower will be "mocked" by others.  So yes, my dear readers, when you call yourself a Christian, you will be watched very closely.  If you backslide and decide you would rather be accepted by the world and therefore go back to your ungodly ways, you will indeed be mocked as being spiritually weak.    

When you go backwards to Verse 26, it does not literally mean we have to hate our family in order to follow Jesus, especially since the message of Jesus was to love one another.  We are to hate the sin and be willing to lose them if Jesus asks it of us.  To choose our relationship with Jesus over a relationship with those who oppose Him.  

We should be willing to follow the rules and not be "unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness?"  We are to "come out from among them, and be ye separate" so that we can be called God's "sons and daughters" (see 2 Corinthians 6:14-7:1). 

Should an issue arise where I had to choose between any person or Jesus, I must know before it happens who I would choose and count the cost before I claim to be a disciple, or I cannot give Jesus 100% of my heart.  I must love Jesus above all and be willing to lose friends and family for the sake of the gospel.  I must take a stand for the King of Kings.

Please do not get me wrong, I am not suggesting we shun people who are different.  We still need to love and pray for those who are against our beliefs and witness as we can.  However, the Bible gives us permission to walk away from relationships with people who are overly cruel or antagonistic of our beliefs.  It also says in Luke 9:5 "And whosoever will not receive you, when ye go out of that city, shake off the very dust from your feet."  In other words, when others openly mock your Biblical stand, it is acceptable to walk away from a close relationship with them.  But again, pray for them and if they need help, be there for them and if they are every ready to receive the gospel, be quickly ready to share it again. 

A few more examples that show we need to be careful with whom we associate: 1 Corinthians 5:9-1 says we are not to keep company with people who actively choose an immoral lifestyle, and Romans 16:17-19 says to avoid those whose doctrines are not from Jesus. 2 Thessalonians 3:6 & 14 commands us to walk away from those who walk in ungodly ways and 1 Timothy 6:3-5 also says to withdraw from those whose beliefs promote are ungodly behaviors and doctrines. Are you willing to follow this very Godly council from the Word of God? 

No, I do not "hate" anyone, but I love Jesus, and I am willing to choose Christ above all others. If the world forsakes me, I will cling to Jesus, as He is all I need.

(Luke 14:26-33) [Jesus said,] "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. And whosoever doth not bear his cross, and come after me, cannot be my disciple."

"For which of you, intending to build a tower, sitteth not down first, and counteth the cost, whether he have sufficient to finish it? Lest haply, after he hath laid the foundation, and is not able to finish it, all that behold it begin to mock him, Saying, 'This man began to build, and was not able to finish.'"

"So likewise, whosoever he be of you that forsaketh not all that he hath, he cannot be my disciple."

Luke 12:42-48: Responsibility

 

Luke 12:42-48: Responsibility

Luke 12:48 says that "whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required."

The parable where this verse is located can be located in Luke 12:41-48.  It has to do with being prepared for the Lord's return and working for Him until He comes.  You can also interpret it as using God's gifts in a responsible way and learning to be a "faithful and wise steward" (verse 42).  The better you handle the responsibility, the more God may bless you.  Yet, if you waste the talents or misuse them, you may be punished.

Those that are given a lot of responsibility such as with a leadership position, much will be expected of them.  You will be held to a higher standard if you want to be the one in charge.  If you want to be the one giving the orders and, in some cases, even responsible for physical or spiritual lives, you cannot be a hypocrite and you need to practice what you preach.   In other words, you must lead with a moral example.  You will be accountable to God if you are dictatorial, abusive, stingy, unfair, unloving, or cruel in the workplace, home, and in a spiritual or political position. 

If you are given much money, you are expected to be generous as well as frugal and responsible.  God does not fault us having nice things, and enjoying life, in fact He wants us to be blessed.  But make no mistake, He is very displeased with those who spend their money on items of vanity and excessive unnecessary items rather than help the poor and needy.  How many hurting people could you support through a charity with the expensive jewelry, excessive clothing, luxury items, electronics, etc., you waste money on each month?  Rather than spending money on ungodly entertainment or buying a $7 cup of coffee, use that money to help a charity. (Wholesome activities that encourage marital/family bonding are pleasing to God, so know I am not discouraging family vacations/retreats, gifts to support your spouse/kids/pets, and collectibles within a reasonable budget.)  

Another way to look at this verse is in the area of talent. The parable states that the Lord wants to "find" us using our talents for His glory when He comes.  If God has granted you with talent, no matter how big or small, you should use it for His glory and not to promote the world or yourself.  Be responsible by not using your gifts to glorify immoral behaviors you know go against the Bible.  In other words, if you have a talent for artwork, paint pictures glorifying the Lord and His creation, not sexualized, violent, or occult images.  If you can write, write stories or poems that show God at the center, not smut, murder mysteries that glorify death and violence, or stories about witchcraft.  If you have musical ability, use it to praise the Lord.  It is a huge pet peeve of mine when "Christian" artists sing cross-over music that promotes sex (even within marriage as certain things should be private), drinking, have swear words in them, or have no message at all.  If God is gracious enough to bless you with an ability, why give that gift to the world and not back to the One who gave it to you? No matter how small you may think your talent is, don't refuse to share it with others and be willing to lift the name of Jesus high!

If God trusts you enough to bless you as a leader, with finances, and/or with talent, honor Him by treating your responsibility with wisdom, morality, and integrity.

(Luke 12:42-48) 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? Blessed is that servant, whom his lord when he cometh shall find so doing. Of a truth I say unto you, that he will make him ruler over all that he hath."

"But and if that servant say in his heart,' My lord delayeth his coming'; and shall begin to beat the menservants and maidens, and to eat and drink, and to be drunken; 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. 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."

"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 9:23: A Daily Decision

 

Luke 9:23: A Daily Decision

Your story as a Christian began before you were born.  John 3:16 tells us, "For God so loved the world, that He gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life." "The world" means every person who has or will ever live on this Earth.  Therefore, Jesus died for your sins before you were born.  Salvation is a free gift you do not have to earn.  This is the beginning for all of us.  However, from there it is up to you to decide what will happen next.

To be clear, I do not believe we are saved by our works, again, God's salvation is a free gift we could never earn. However, we must show the utmost respect for this gift and as it states in Romans 6:1-2, "What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein?" In other words, we are not to abuse the grace of God and use it as an excuse to sin.

We need to continue to grow in our walk with the Lord and make a daily decision to give up our sinful habits. Jesus said in Luke 9:23 "If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me."   Daily means daily, not just denying your sinful nature when you feel like it or are asking God for a favor.  This also means choosing to follow Jesus and His ways of righteousness. It requires daily self-examination and repentance.  For Jesus also said in John 14:15, "If ye love me, keep my commandments." And 1 John 2:4 makes it abundantly clear, "He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him."  

For the full article on this subject, feel free to read my writing titled: "

The Beginning, Middle, and End" https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2025/12/the-beginning-middle-and-end.html

Luke 8:16-17: Light or Dark?

 

Luke 8:16-17: Light or Dark?

Luke 8:16-17 paints a good picture of light and darkness in our lives.  Verse 16 reminds us not to cover our lights, but to "setteth it on a candlestick, that they which enter in may see the light." We must do our best to let our Christianity shine brightly in order to encourage, comfort, and even sometimes gently correct others. 

Verse 17 reminds that "nothing is secret, that shall not be made manifest."  Christ knows and sees all.  Even if no other person ever discovers your sins, God will ALWAYS know.  He may even find a way for others to discover your secrets as well.  

It is our choice - live in the Light or hide in the dark.  I choose the Light!

(Luke 8:16-17) No man, when he hath lighted a candle, covereth it with a vessel, or putteth it under a bed; but setteth it on a candlestick, that they which enter in may see the light.

For nothing is secret, that shall not be made manifest; neither anything hid, that shall not be known and come abroad. 

Luke 1:26-38: No One Compares to Jesus

 

Luke 1:26-38: No One Compares to Jesus

Even by His very conception, Jesus proved that nothing is impossible within the will of God. His is the only virgin birth as a sign that He is pure and sovereign.  No one has ever come close to being as loving, tender, bold, brave, wise, fair, and sacrificial as Jesus Christ!

Jesus left a place more perfect than we can ever imagine to live in a sinful, primitive, violent world.  While we marvel at Jesus’ miraculous birth to a virgin, remember the story does not stop there. Jesus was born for the sole purpose of giving up His life thirty-three years later.  Jesus gave up His throne surrounded by angels for a life where His authority was rarely recognized.  He came to this cruel and heartless world in the form of pure innocence and humility.  He would willingly endure excruciating torture.  (The word excruciating exists because of the severe pain suffered during crucifixion.)  Yes, He also knew He would be raised from the dead three days after His death, but He did not endure long hours of agony just to glorify Himself.  He allowed Himself to be beaten raw and pierced through to die a slow death just for you and me! His blood on the cross is the only reason you and I have the option of spending eternity with Him in paradise.  He paid for our sins by hanging in humiliation on a cross with wood splinters buried into an already raw and bloodied back, a crown of literal thorns causing blood to burn his eyes as it dripped down His face.

It is His glorious face we must seek today! Do not throw away His precious gift bought with a terror we could never endure.  Repent of your sins and seek to live a life of holiness so that you can someday see the beautiful face of Jesus and His Father who allowed His son to be ripped from His side for more than three decades.

As you read through the book of Luke and of the shepherds marveling at the baby Jesus, think of how much more magnificent it will be to bow at the throne of the living God! Take a moment and thank Jesus with all your heart for choosing the path of pain and sorrow just so we can have an eternal life of peace and joy!

(Luke 1:26-38)  And in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God unto a city of Galilee, named Nazareth, To a virgin espoused to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin's name was Mary.

And the angel came in unto her, and said, "Hail, thou that art highly favoured, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women."

And when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and cast in her mind what manner of salutation this should be.

And the angel said unto her, "Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God. And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name Jesus. He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David: And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end."

Then said Mary unto the angel, "How shall this be, seeing I know not a man?"

And the angel answered and said unto her, "The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God... For with God nothing shall be impossible."

And Mary said, "Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word. "

And the angel departed from her.

Luke 1:5-14, 39-41, 57, 67, & 76-80: Prepare the Way for the Lord

 

Luke 1:5-14, 39-41, 57, 67, & 76-80: Prepare the Way for the Lord

God answered the prayers of Zacharias and Elisabeth because of their faithful obedience to Him.  Not only did God gift them with a son, but He sent an angel to foretell of this special child's birth!  This son was so important to the Kingdom of God, he was filled with the Holy Spirit even in the womb, and his future ministry was prophesied in Isaiah 40:3, (The voice of him that crieth in the wilderness, "Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make straight in the desert a highway for our God.")

This child was John the Baptist and would prepare the way for Jesus Christ.  What an honor!  May we all prepare the hearts of others for the love of Jesus Christ.

(Luke 1:5-14, 39-41, 57, 67, & 76-80) There was in the days of Herod, the king of Judaea, a certain priest named Zacharias, of the course of Abia: and his wife was of the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elisabeth. And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless. And they had no child, because that Elisabeth was barren, and they both were now well stricken in years.

And it came to pass, that while he executed the priest's office before God in the order of his course, According to the custom of the priest's office, his lot was to burn incense when he went into the temple of the Lord. And the whole multitude of the people were praying without at the time of incense. And there appeared unto him an angel of the Lord standing on the right side of the altar of incense. And when Zacharias saw him, he was troubled, and fear fell upon him.

But the angel said unto him, "Fear not, Zacharias: for thy prayer is heard; and thy wife Elisabeth shall bear thee a son, and thou shalt call his name John. And thou shalt have joy and gladness; and many shall rejoice at his birth.

And Mary [the mother of Jesus] arose in those days, and went into the hill country with haste, into a city of Juda; And entered into the house of Zacharias, and saluted Elisabeth. And it came to pass, that, when Elisabeth heard the salutation of Mary, the babe leaped in her womb; and Elisabeth was filled with the Holy Ghost.

Now Elisabeth's full time came that she should be delivered; and she brought forth a son. 

And his father Zacharias was filled with the Holy Ghost, and prophesied, saying, "And thou, child, shalt be called the prophet of the Highest: for thou shalt go before the face of the Lord to prepare his ways; To give knowledge of salvation unto his people by the remission of their sins, Through the tender mercy of our God; whereby the dayspring from on high hath visited us, To give light to them that sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace. And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, and was in the deserts till the day of his shewing unto Israel."

If you are interested, you can read my writings on Zacharias and John the Baptist here:

Profile of a Doubter, Part 3: Zacharias: https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2024/02/profile-of-doubter-part-3-zacharias.html

The Ministry of John the Baptist: https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2024/02/the-ministry-of-john-baptist.html