Words of Jesus Podcast

Signs to Establish the Disciples Authority

Don C. Harris (AP) — Fri, 25 Apr 2025 15:00:00 -0600

Bible, Scriptures, discrepancies, resurrection, flesh and bone, immortality, signs to establish disciples authority, justification, atonement

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119: Jesus Appears To His Disciples At Evening

Mark 16:14; Luke 24:36-43; John 20:19-23

Some of the disciples were gathered together secretly, fearing the authorities. In the evening of the day Jesus had appeared to Mary Magdalene, the two who had returned from Emmaus were telling how they had seen Jesus; and at that moment he appeared in the midst of the group, saying:

“Peace be unto you.”

The disciples were terrified and frightened, thinking they saw a spirit. But Jesus showed them his hands and the wound in his side, and said to them:

“Why are ye troubled and why do thoughts arise in your hearts? Behold my hands and my feet, that is I myself. Handle me, and see; for a spirit hath not flesh and bones, as ye see me have.”

And they were glad, knowing he was the Lord.

Jesus said to them:

“Peace be unto you. As my Father hath sent me, even so send I you.”

Then Jesus addressed the disciples, saying to them:

“Receive ye the Holy Ghost. Whosesoever sins ye remit, they are remitted unto them; and whosesoever sins ye retain, they are retained.”

"All hail!" Jesus The Physical Presentation of the Gospel

Don C. Harris (AP) — Fri, 18 Apr 2025 15:00:00 -0600

Jesus made a reconnaissance mission to earth. Jesus came to determine, as a man, what do the humans know. We hear this in his difficulty in communicating heavenly concepts and in his questions; i.e. "How is it that you do not understand?"

The goal was to reveal the nature and name of Yehovah to the world; to reveal to mankind the path to salvation. "Keep my commandments." Jesus said.

For more information get "The Questions of Jesus" by Don C Harris to hear revelations from the 151 questions asked by Messiah. Available on Amazon or other online retailers. It's worthwhile. Available in audio by request at ThinkRedInk.com .

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117: The Women Visit Jesus’ Sepulcher

Matthew 28:1-10; Mark 16:1-11; Luke 24:1-12; John 20:1-18

On the morning of the first day of the week Mary Magdalene with the other Mary went to the sepulcher where Jesus had been buried.

There was a great earthquake; and an angel descended from Heaven, rolled back the stone from the door of the sepulcher, and sat upon it. His countenance was like lightning and his clothes were white as snow. The angel spoke to the women, saying:

“Fear not ye; for I know that ye seek Jesus, which was crucified. He is not here; for he is risen, as he said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay. And go quickly, and tell his disciples that he is risen from the dead; and, behold, he goeth before you into Galilee. There shall ye see him. Lo, I have told you.”

The women ran from the sepulcher quickly with great awe and joy to tell the disciples what had happened.

On their way, Jesus met them and said:

“All hail.”

The women fell at his feet and worshiped him. He continued:

“Be not afraid. Go tell my brethren that they go into Galilee, and there shall they see me.”

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118: Jesus Appears To His Disciples As They Walk To Emmaus

Mark 16:12,13; Luke 24:13-35

Two of the disciples were on their way to the village of Emmaus, nearly eight miles from Jerusalem. They were sad as they discussed the recent events. As they walked along, Jesus came to them and went with them; but they did not recognize him. Jesus said to them:

“What manner of communications are these that ye have one to another, as ye walk, and are sad?”

One of the disciples, names Cleopas, replied:

“Art thou only a stranger in Jerusalem, and has not known the things which are come to pass there in these days?”

Jesus asked:

“What things?”

The disciples replied to him:

“Concerning Jesus of Nazareth, which was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people. And now the chief priests and our rulers delivered him to be condemned to death, and have crucified him. But we trusted that it had been he which should have redeemed Israel. And beside all this, today is the third day since these things were done. Yea, and certain women also of our company made us astonished, which were early at the sepulcher. And when they found not his body, they came, saying that they had also seen a vision of angels, which said that he was alive. And certain of them which were with us went to the sepulcher, and found it even so as the women had said, but him they saw not.”

Jesus said to the disciples:

“O fools, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken. Ought not Christ to have suffered these things, and to enter into his glory?”

Then, beginning with Moses and the prophets, Jesus explained to the disciples all the things in the Scriptures about himself. When they came to Emmaus, Jesus acted as though he would continue on; but the disciples said to him:

“Abode with us; for it is toward evening, and the day is far spent.”

Jesus remained with them. At the evening meal he took bread, blessed it, broke it, and gave it to them. At that moment they knew him, but he vanished from their sight.

The disciples said to one another:

“Did not our hearts burn within us while he talked with us by the way, and while he opened to us the Scriptures?”

They returned to Jerusalem and told the others:

“The Lord has risen indeed and hath appeared to Simon.”

"For this cause came I unto the world…"

Don C. Harris (AP) — Fri, 11 Apr 2025 15:00:00 -0600

When you get the red-letters right, it all makes sense! This was my destiny. Aramaic Peshitta a gospel recorded in Aramaic. Translated into English by George Lamsa.

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116: The Death Of Jesus

Matthew 27:45-56; Mark 15:33-41; Luke 23:44-49; John 19:28-37

From the sixth hour to the ninth hour, while Jesus was on the cross, there was darkness over all the land.

About the ninth hour Jesus cried out in a loud voice, saying:

“My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?”

Some of those who heard Jesus said:

“Behold, he calleth Elijah.”

One ran, took up a sponge, filled it with vinegar, placed it on a reed, and pushed it up to give Jesus a drink.

Some said:

“Let alone. Let us see whether Elijah will come to take him down.”

Then Jesus cried out in a loud voice:

“Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit.”

Having said this, he died and the veil of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom; the earth quaked; and rocks broke one upon the other. Graves opened and the bodies of many sleeping saints arose.

The officer of the soldiers, and others that were with him, when they saw these things occurring at the death of Jesus, said:

“Truly this was the Son of God.”

Jesus Was Crucified BECAUSE They Knew He Was Messiah

Don C. Harris (AP) — Fri, 04 Apr 2025 15:00:00 -0600

What do we? for this man doeth many miracles. If we let him thus alone, all men will believe on him: and the Romans shall come and take away both our place and nation. And one of them, named Caiaphas, being the high priest that same year, said unto them, Ye know nothing at all, Nor consider that it is expedient for us, that one man should die for the people, and that the whole nation perish not. And this spake he not of himself: but being high priest that year, he prophesied that Jesus should die for that nation; And not for that nation only, but that also he should gather together in one the children of God that were scattered abroad. John 11

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115: The Crucifixion [Execution] Of Jesus

Matthew 27:33-35, 39-44; Mark 15:23-32; Luke 23:33-43; John 19:17-27

When they had arrived at Calvary Jesus was given vinegar mingled with gall, which he tasted slightly but would not drink.

Then Jesus and the two common criminals were all nailed to crosses: one on the left, one on the right, with Jesus in the center.

Jesus said:

“Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do.”

Then Pilate made a sign that was written in Hebrew, Greek, and Latin. It was put on top of Jesus’ cross. It read:

JESUS OF NAZARETH

THE KING OF THE JEWS

The chief priests objected to the sign, saying to Pilate:

“Write not ‘The King of the Jews,’ but that he said, ‘I am King of the Jews.’”

Pilate answered:

“What I have written I have written.”

The four soldiers who had crucified Jesus took his garments and divided them into four parts, one part for each. His coat, however, was in one piece, without seam. The soldiers did not tear it but said to one another:

“Let us not rend it, but cast lots for it, whose it shall be.”

Thus was the Scripture fulfilled which said:

“They parted my raiment among them, and for my vesture they did cast lots.”

The spectators, the chief priests, elders, scribes, the soldiers who had crucified him, and even one of the common criminals on his cross reviled and mocked Jesus.

The scribes and elders said:

“He saved others. Himself he cannot save. If he be the King of Israel, let him now come down from the cross, and we will believe him. He trusted in God. Let him deliver him now, if he will have him; for he said, “I am the Son of God.’”

Others said:

“Thou that destroyest the temple, and buildest it in three days, save thyself. If thou be the Son of God, come down from the cross.”

The soldiers offered him vinegar to drink, saying:

“If thou be the King of the Jews, save thyself.”

Some said:

“He saved others. Let him save himself, if he be Christ, the chosen of God.”

While those around the cross were reviling Jesus, one of the criminals joined in, saying:

“If thou be Christ, save thyself and us.”

The other rebuked him, saying:

“Dost not thou fear God, seeing thou art in the same condemnation? And we indeed justly, for we receive the due reward of our deeds; but this man hath done nothing amiss.”

Then he turned to Jesus and said:

“Jesus, Lord, remember me when thou comest into thy kingdom.”

And Jesus answered him, saying:

“Verily I say unto thee, ‘Today shalt thou be with me in paradise.’”

Standing in the shadow of the cross was Mary, the mother of Jesus, and his mother’s sister, also called Mary, and Mary Magdalene. Jesus saw the disciple whom he loved standing by. From the cross Jesus said to his mother regarding this disciple.

“Woman, behold thy son!”

Then he said to the disciple:

“Behold thy mother!”

From that hour the disciple became a son to Jesus’ mother and welcomed her into his home.

Eternal Consequences

Don C. Harris (AP) — Fri, 28 Mar 2025 15:00:00 -0600

...your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God. Howbeit we speak wisdom among them that are perfect: yet not the wisdom of this world, nor of the princes of this world, that come to nought: But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory: Which none of the princes of this world knew: for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory. 1 Corinthians 2

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113: Barabbas Released And Jesus Mocked

Matthew 27:15-30; Mark 15:6-19; Luke 23:13-25; John 18:39-19:16

Barabbas Released And Jesus Mocked

When Pilate could find nothing in Jesus worthy of death, he said to Jesus’ accusers:

“Ye have a custom that I should release unto you one at the Passover. Will ye therefore that I release unto you the King of the Jews?”

The people cried out:

“Not this man, but Barabbas.”

Barabbas was a robber.

So Barrabas–the insurrectionist, robber, and murderer–was released; and Jesus was turned over to be crucified.

He was scourged by Pilate, and the soldiers who guarded him covered him with a purple robe and placed a crown of thorns on his head. Then, as they struck him with their hands, they said:

“Hail, King of the Jews!”

Then Pilate said to the people:

“Behold, I bring him forth to you, that ye may know that I find no fault in him.”

As Jesus came out, garbed in purple and wearing the crown of thorns, Pilate said:

“Behold the man!”

The chief priests and officers cried out:

“Crucify him, crucify him.”

Pilate said to them:

“Take ye him and crucify him, for I find no fault in him.”

Jesus’ accusers replied:

“We have a law, and by our law he ought to die, because he made himself the Son of God.”

When he heard this, Pilate was afraid. He asked Jesus:

“Whence art thou?”

Jesus did not answer.

Pilate tried again, saying:

“Speakest thou not unto me? Knowest thou not that I have power to crucify thee, and have power to release thee?”

Jesus answered him, saying:

“Thou couldest have no power at all against me, except it were given thee from above. Therefore he that delivered me unto thee hath the greater sin.”

Again Pilate sought to release Jesus, but the people shouted:

“If thou let this man go, thou art not Caesar’s friend. Whosoever maketh himself a king speaketh against Caesar.”

Then Pilate took Jesus before the judgment seat in the place called the Pavement, known in Hebrew as Gabbatha. It was about the sixth hour. Pilate said to the Jews:

“Behold your King!”

The Jews shouted:

“Away with him, away with him, crucify him.”

Pilate answered:

“Shall I crucify your King?”

The chief priests replied:

“We have no king but Caesar.”

The Pilate delivered Jesus to the chief priests to be crucified. They took him and led him away.

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114: Jesus’ Trip To Calvary

Matthew 27:31, 32; Mark 15:20-22; Luke 23:26-32; John 19:17

After Jesus had been mocked, and the purple robe had been taken from him, they dressed him again in his own clothes and led him away to be crucified.

The guards forced Simon–A Cyrenian, the father of Alexander and Rufus–to carry the cross.

Two common criminals, also sentenced to death, were in the procession. There were a large number of people following, many of them women who bewailed and lamented for Jesus. Hearing their crying, Jesus turned to them and said:

“Daughters of Jerusalem, weep not for me, but weep for yourselves, and for your children. For, behold, the days are coming in which they shall say, ‘Blessed are the barren, and the wombs that never bare, and the paps which never gave suck.’ Then shall they begin to say to the mountains, ‘Fall on us;’ and to the hills, ‘Cover us.’ For if they do these things in a green tree, what shall be done in the dry?”

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115: The Crucifixion Of Jesus

Matthew 27:33-35, 39-44; Mark 15:23-32; Luke 23:33-43; John 19:17-27

When they had arrived at Calvary Jesus was given vinegar mingled with gall, which he tasted slightly but would not drink.

Then Jesus and the two common criminals were all nailed to crosses: one on the left, one on the right, with Jesus in the center.

Jesus said:

“Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do.”

Then Pilate made a sign that was written in Hebrew, Greek, and Latin. It was put on top of Jesus’ cross. It read:

JESUS OF NAZARETH

THE KING OF THE JEWS

The chief priests objected to the sign, saying to Pilate:

“Write not ‘The King of the Jews,’ but that he said, ‘I am King of the Jews.’”

Pilate answered:

“What I have written I have written.”

“Let us not rend it, but cast lots for it, whose it shall be.”

Thus was the Scripture fulfilled which said:

“They parted my raiment among them, and for my vesture they did cast lots.”

The spectators, the chief priests, elders, scribes, the soldiers who had crucified him, and even one of the common criminals on his cross reviled and mocked Jesus.

The scribes and elders said:

Others said:

“Thou that destroyest the temple, and buildest it in three days, save thyself. If thou be the Son of God, come down from the cross.”

The soldiers offered him vinegar to drink, saying:

“If thou be the King of the Jews, save thyself.”

Some said:

“He saved others. Let him save himself, if he be Christ, the chosen of God.”

While those around the cross were reviling Jesus, one of the criminals joined in, saying:

“If thou be Christ, save thyself and us.”

The other rebuked him, saying:

“Dost not thou fear God, seeing thou art in the same condemnation? And we indeed justly, for we receive the due reward of our deeds; but this man hath done nothing amiss.”

Then he turned to Jesus and said:

“Jesus, Lord, remember me when thou comest into thy kingdom.”

And Jesus answered him, saying:

“Verily I say unto thee, ‘Today shalt thou be with me in paradise.’”

“Woman, behold thy son!”

Then he said to the disciple:

“Behold thy mother!”

From that hour the disciple became a son to Jesus’ mother and welcomed her into his home.

Examine Your Salvation

Don C. Harris (AP) — Fri, 21 Mar 2025 15:00:00 -0600

Are you growing in imitation of Christ? There is a clandestine nature to the Kingdom of God. A revelation, a visitation, a hearing of the Word of God is required to begin the process of salvation. Jesus was not interested in the type of promotion so familiar in our day which seeks after crowds, money and popularity. Jesus' ministry is not based on persuasion or education. Many times Jesus told his disciples and those he healed to "Tell no man."

Jesus said, “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me:” ...for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth. Every one that is of the truth hears my voice.” Jesus said, those of are of the truth hear my voice. John 18

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111: Jesus Before Caiaphas

Matthew 26:57-68; Mark 14:53-65; Luke 22:63-71; John 18:12-27

Jesus Before Caiaphas

Jesus was taken before the high priest. Assembled were all the chief priests, scribes, and elders.

Peter followed the crowd into the palace and sat with the servants, warming himself at the fire.

The chief priests and the council sought to find witnesses so that Jesus might be put to death. Many testified against Jesus, but the testimony of no two agreed.

Then certain witnesses arose and said:

“We heard him say, ‘I will destroy this temple that is made with hands, and within three days I will build another made without hands!”

But even the testimony of these did not agree exactly.

Then the high priest arose and said to Jesus:

“Answerest thou nothing? What is it which these witness against thee?”

Jesus remained silent. Again the high priest asked him:

“Art thou the Christ, the Son of the Blessed?”

Jesus replied:

“I am. And ye shall see the Son of man sitting on the right hand of power, and coming in the clouds of Heaven.”

The high priest then tore Jesus’ clothes and said to the council:

“What need we any further witnesses? Ye have heard the blasphemy. What think ye?”

Thereupon they all condemned Jesus to death. Some began to spit on him, and to cover his face, and to strike him, and say:

“Prophesy!”

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112: Jesus Before Pilate

Matthew 27:2, 11-14; Mark 15:1-5; Luke 23:1-12; John 18:28-38

Jesus Before Pilate

The next morning Jesus was taken, by his accusers, to Pilate. Pilate asked them:

“What accusation bring ye against this man?”

They replied:

“If he were not a malefactor, we would not have delivered him up to thee.”

Pilate said:

“Take ye and judge him according to your law.”

His accusers answered:

“It is not lawful for us to put any man to death.”

Pilate then called Jesus and asked him:

“Art thou the King of the Jews?”

Jesus replied:

“Sayest thou this thing of thyself, or did others tell it thee of me?”

Pilate replied:

“Am I a Jew? Thine own nation and the chief priests have delivered thee unto me. What hast thou done?”

Jesus answered:

“My kingdom is not of this world. If my kingdom were of this world, then would my servants fight, that I should not be delivered to the Jews. But now is my kingdom not from hence.”

Pilate asked:

“Art thou a king then?”

Jesus answered:

“Thou sayest that I am a king. To this end was I born, and for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth. Everyone that is of the truth heareth my voice.”

Pilate said to Jesus:

“What is truth?”

Then the governor went out to the accusers and said:

“I find in him no fault at all.”

Jesus Accepted Rejection - No Rebuke - No Defense

Don C. Harris (AP) — Fri, 14 Mar 2025 15:00:00 -0600

Jesus Chose Us Over His Life

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110: The Arrest Of Jesus

Matthew 26:47-56; Mark 14:43-52; Luke 22:47-53; John 18:2-12

As Jesus finished praying in the Garden of Gethsemane, Judas Iscariot, the one of the twelve apostles who had agreed to betray him, drew near Jesus to kiss him.

Jesus said:

“Judas, betrayest thou the Son of man with a kiss?”

Jesus’ disciples saw that the kiss was a sign to emissaries of the high priest that they might arrest Jesus. One of his defenders said:

“Lord, shall we smite with the sword?”

Another drew his sword and with it cut off the right ear of a servant of the high priest.

Jesus answered:

“Suffer ye thus far.”

Then he touched the wounded ear and healed it.

Turning to the chief priests, captains of the temple, and elders, who had come to arrest him, Jesus said:

“Be ye come out, as against a thief, with swords and staves? When I was daily with you in the temple, ye stretched forth no hands against me; but this is your hour, and the power of darkness.”

The disciples fled, leaving Jesus with his captors.

Willing Sacrifice

Don C. Harris (AP) — Fri, 07 Mar 2025 15:00:00 -0600

Often we hear it said that "God is in control" and "God can do anything" This is often taken to mean everything that happens is the responsibility and will of God. This is not so. Remember in the beginning, God put the earth and everything in it under the control of his man Adam. In short order Adam gave this authority and control to the enemy of God thereby creating a separation between God and man. In response to Adam's treason (a perfect, loving, true, Creator Father) God made a promise to redeem man. More perfectly God made a way for man to be redeemed. Man must participate in this redemption by exercising his free will to obey God - a willing sacrifice.

And when the time of the fruit drew near, he sent his servants to the husbandmen, that they might receive the fruits of it. And the husbandmen took his servants, and beat one, and killed another, and stoned another. Again, he sent other servants more than the first: and they did unto them likewise. But last of all he sent unto them his son, saying, They will reverence my son. 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. And they caught him, and cast him out of the vineyard, and slew him. When the lord therefore of the vineyard cometh, what will he do unto those husbandmen? Matthew 21

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109: Jesus’ Prayer In Gethsemane

Matthew 26:36-46; Mark 14:32-42; Luke 22:39-46

Jesus’ Prayer In Gethsemane

When Jesus and his disciples arrived at the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus said to

them:

“Sit ye here, while I go and pray yonder.”

Jesus took with him Peter; also James and John, the sons of Zebedee, and went a little farther. Then he said to them:

“My soul is exceeding sorrowful, even unto death. Tarry ye here, and watch with me.”

Jesus went on a little farther, fell on his face on the ground, and prayed – saying:

“Abba, Father, all things are possible unto thee; take away this cup from me; nevertheless not what I will, but what thou wilt.”

Then he returned to the three disciples and, finding them asleep, said to Peter:

“Simon, sleepest thou? Couldest not thou watch one hour? Watch ye and pray, lest ye enter into temptation. The spirit truly is ready, but the flesh is weak.”

Jesus went away a second time and prayed, saying:

“O my Father, if this cup may not pass away from me, except I drink it, thy will be done.”

Then he returned and found the three asleep again. Jesus left them a third time and prayed with the same intent and in the same words as before.

When he returned to the three sleeping disciples, he said:

“Sleep on now, and take your rest. It is enough, the hour is come. Behold, the Son of man is betrayed into the hands of sinners. Rise up, let us go. Lo, he that betrayeth me is at hand.”

Making Provision For The Future Of The Kingdom Of God

Don C. Harris (AP) — Fri, 28 Feb 2025 15:00:00 -0600

Jesus gives vital instruction his disciples (and us) for the operation of the Kingdom of God through revelation and communication with the Spirit of God.

“So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.” Isaiah 55:11

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108: Jesus At The Last Supper

Matthew 26:14-30; Mark 14:10-26; Luke 22:3-39; John 13:1-17:26

Jesus Prays For His Disciples

Then Jesus lifted up his eyes Heavenward and said:

“Father, the hour is come; glorify thy Son, that thy Son also may glorify thee, as thou hast given him power over all flesh, that he should give eternal life to as many as thou hast given him. And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent. I have glorified thee on the earth. I have finished the work which thou gavest me to do. And now, O Father, glorify thou me with thine own self with the glory which I had with thee before the world was. I have manifested thy name unto the men which thou gavest me out of the world. Thine they were, and thou gavest them me; and they have kept thy word. Now they have known that all things whatsoever thou has given me are of thee. For I have given unto them the words which thou gavest me; and they have received them, and have known surely that I came out from thee, and they have believed that thou didst send me. I pray for them. I pray not for the world, but for them which thou hast given me; for they are thine. And all mine are thine, and thine are mine; and I am glorified in them. And now I am no more in the world, but these are in the world, and I am come to thee.

Holy Father, keep through thine own name those whom thou hast given me, that they may be one, as we are. While I was with them in the world, I kept them in thy name; those that thou gavest me I have kept, and none of them is lost but the son of perdition, that the Scripture might be fulfilled. And now come I to thee; and these things I speak in the world, that they might have my joy fulfilled in themselves. I have given them thy word; and the world hath hated them, because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil. They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. Sanctify them through thy truth. Thy word is truth. As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world. And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth.

Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; that they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me. Father, I will that they also, whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am; that they may behold my glory, which thou hast given me, for thou lovedst me before the foundation of the world. O righteous Father, the world hath not known thee; but I have known thee, and these have known that thou hast sent me. And I have declared unto them thy name, and will declare it; that the love wherewith thou hast loved me may be in them, and I in them.”

Then Jesus and the disciples went out to the Mount of Olives.

Believe In Me! Belief Creates Action.

Don C. Harris (AP) — Fri, 21 Feb 2025 15:00:00 -0600

A solemn occasion - a noble savior - vital instruction. The historical nature of this occasion should not distract from the powerful works that were accomplished and were soon to occur. Stay in the moment, if you can. Recognize the work of Jesus and the expected continuation of that work through the disciples. The minimum standard of sanctification for communication is the obedience of the commandments. Deny yourself. Take up your cross. Follow me. The similitude of actions between Jesus and the disciples creates division (sanctification) and establishes the promise of persecution.

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108: Jesus At The Last Supper

Matthew 26:14-30; Mark 14:10-26; Luke 22:3-39; John 13:1-17:26

I Am The Vine

Jesus continued:

“I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman. Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away; and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit. Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you. Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me. I am the vine, ye are the branches. He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit; for without me ye can do nothing. If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned. If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you. Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples.

As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you. Continue ye in my love. If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love. These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full. This is my commandment: that ye love one another, as I have loved you. Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you. Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his lord doeth. But I have called you friends; for all things I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you. Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain; that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it to you. These things I command you, that ye love one another. If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you. If ye were of the world, the world would love his own. But because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you.

Remember the word that I said unto you, ‘The servant is not greater than his lord.’ If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you; if they have kept my saying, they will keep yours also. But all these things will they do unto you for my name’s sake, because they know not him that sent me. If I had not come and spoken unto them, they had not had sin.

But now they have no cloak for their sin. He that hateth me hateth my Father also. If I had not done among them the works which none other man did, they had not had sin. But now they have both seen and hated both me and my Father. But this cometh to pass, that the word might be fulfilled that is written in their law, ‘They hated me without a cause.’ But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, he shall testify of me. And ye also shall bear witness, because ye have been with me from the beginning.

Nevertheless I tell you the truth. It is expedient for you that I go away; for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you. And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment; of sin, because they believe not on me; of righteousness, because I go to my Father, and ye see me no more; of judgment, because the prince of this world is judged. I have yet many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now. Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth; for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak, and he will show you things to come. He shall glorify me; for he shall receive of mine, and shall show it unto you. A little while, and ye shall not see me; and again, a little while, and ye shall see me, because I go to the Father.”

Then some of Jesus’ disciples said to each other:

“What is this that he saith unto us, ‘A little while, and ye shall not see me; and again, a little while and ye shall see me,’ and, ‘Because I go to the Father?’”

Therefore they reasoned:

“What is this that he saith, ‘A little while?’ We cannot tell what he saith.”

Jesus, knowing the questions that concerned them, said to his disciples:

“Do ye inquire among yourselves of that I said, ‘A little while, and ye shall not see me; and again, a little while, and ye shall see me?’ Verily, verily, I say unto you that ye shall weep and lament, but the world shall rejoice; and ye shall be sorrowful, but your sorrow shall be turned into joy. A woman when she is in travail hath sorrow, because her hour is come; but as soon as she is delivered of the child, she remembereth no more the anguish, for the joy that a man is born into the world. And ye now therefore have sorrow. But I will see you again, and your heart shall rejoice, and your joy no man taketh from you. And in that day ye shall ask me nothing. Verily, verily, I say unto you, ‘Whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in my name, he will give it to you.’

Hitherto have ye asked nothing in my name. Ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full. These things have I spoken unto you in proverbs, but I shall show you plainly of the Father. At that day ye shall ask in my name. And I say not unto you that I will pray the Father for you; for the Father himself loveth you, because ye have loved me, and have believed that I came out of God. I came forth from the Father, and am come into the world; again, I leave the world, and go to the Father.”

The disciples said to Jesus:

“Lo, now speakest thou plainly, and speakest no proverb. Now are we sure that thou knowest all things, and needest not that any man should ask thee. By this we believe that thou camest fourth from God.”

Jesus answered them, saying:

“Do ye now believe? Behold, the hour cometh, yea, is now come, that ye shall be scattered, every man to his own, and shall leave me alone. And yet I am not alone, because the Father is with me. These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation. But be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.”

Jesus Prays For His Disciples

Then Jesus lifted up his eyes Heavenward and said:

Then Jesus and the disciples went out to the Mount of Olives.

What Work Is Finished?

Don C. Harris (AP) — Fri, 14 Feb 2025 15:00:00 -0600

Jesus came expecting to be received by a loving and loyal priesthood. The ministry and miracles by Jesus gave undeniable proof of His identity. These miracles were categorically rejected on technicalities by the religious leaders.

1) All Jesus could do is provide the opportunity for mankind to believe in His Father by faith;

2) Provision for those who do believe to receive guidance, rebirth and regeneration;

3) Prayer for believers to be in relationship now and in the world to come;

4) Promise of a place and a return, opportunity for faith.

Those who come to the Father must believe that He is and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him. Without faith, it is impossible to please Him. When the Son of Man comes will He find faith on the earth?

***

108: Jesus At The Last Supper

Matthew 26:14-30; Mark 14:10-26; Luke 22:3-39; John 13:1-17:26

Farewell Advice

As Jesus sat with his disciples in the upper room, he said to them:

“Let not your heart be troubled; ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many mansions. If it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also. And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know.”

Thomas said to Jesus:

“Lord, we know not whither thou goest; and how can we know the way?”

Jesus replied:

“I am the way, the truth, and the life. No man cometh unto the Father, but by me. If ye had known me, ye should have known my Father also; and from henceforth ye know him, and have seen him.”

Phillip said:

“Lord, show us the Father, and it sufficeth us.”

Jesus said:

“Have I been so long with you, and yet hast thou not known me, Philip? He that hath seen me hath seen the Father; and how sayest thou then, ‘Show us the Father?’ Believest thou not that I am in the Father, and the Father in me? The words that I speak unto you I speak not of myself; but the Father that dwelleth in me, he doeth the works. Believe me that I am in the Father, and the Father in me. Or else believe me for the very works’ sake. Verily, verily, I say unto you, ‘He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do, because I go unto my Father.’ And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If ye shall ask anything in my name, I will do it.

“If ye love me, keep my commandments. And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you forever; even the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him; but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you. I will not leave you comfortless. I will come to you. Yet a little while, and the world seeth me no more; but ye see me. Because I live, ye shall live also. At that day ye shall know that I am in my Father and ye in me, and I in you. He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me. And he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him.”

I Am The Vine

Jesus continued:

Then some of Jesus’ disciples said to each other:

“What is this that he saith unto us, ‘A little while, and ye shall not see me; and again, a little while and ye shall see me,’ and, ‘Because I go to the Father?’”

Therefore they reasoned:

“What is this that he saith, ‘A little while?’ We cannot tell what he saith.”

Jesus, knowing the questions that concerned them, said to his disciples:

The disciples said to Jesus:

Jesus answered them, saying:

Jesus Prays For His Disciples

Then Jesus lifted up his eyes Heavenward and said:

Then Jesus and the disciples went out to the Mount of Olives.

Passover Rehearsal - Instructions for the Disciples After Jesus Departure

Don C. Harris (AP) — Fri, 07 Feb 2025 15:00:00 -0600

A worthy and weighty prayer by Jesus for culmination of the promise to make dead men live; for the strength and understanding of the disciples and those that follow after.

***

108: Jesus At The Last Supper (Cont.)

Matthew 26:14-30; Mark 14:10-26; Luke 22:3-39; John 13:1-17:26

I Am The Vine

Jesus continued:

“These things have I spoken unto you, that ye should not be offended. They shall put you out of the synagogues. Yea, the time cometh that whosoever killeth you will think that he doeth God service. And these things will they do unto you because they have not known the Father, nor me. But these things have I told you, that when the time shall come, ye may remember that I told you of them. And these things I said not unto you at the beginning, because I was with you. But now I go my way to him that sent me; and none of you asketh me, ‘Whither goest thou?’ But because I have said these things unto you, sorrow hath filled your heart. Nevertheless I tell you the truth. It is expedient for you that I go away; for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you. And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment; of sin, because they believe not on me; of righteousness, because I go to my Father, and ye see me no more; of judgment, because the prince of this world is judged. I have yet many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now. Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth; for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak, and he will show you things to come. He shall glorify me; for he shall receive of mine, and shall show it unto you. A little while, and ye shall not see me; and again, a little while, and ye shall see me, because I go to the Father.”

Then some of Jesus’ disciples said to each other:

“What is this that he saith unto us, ‘A little while, and ye shall not see me; and again, a little while and ye shall see me,’ and, ‘Because I go to the Father?’”

Therefore they reasoned:

“What is this that he saith, ‘A little while?’ We cannot tell what he saith.”

Jesus, knowing the questions that concerned them, said to his disciples:

The disciples said to Jesus:

Jesus answered them, saying:

Jesus Prays For His Disciples

Then Jesus lifted up his eyes Heavenward and said:

And now I am no more in the world, but these are in the world, and I am come to thee. Holy Father, keep through thine own name those whom thou hast given me, that they may be one, as we are. While I was with them in the world, I kept them in thy name; those that thou gavest me I have kept, and none of them is lost but the son of perdition, that the Scripture might be fulfilled. And now come I to thee; and these things I speak in the world, that they might have my joy fulfilled in themselves. I have given them thy word; and the world hath hated them, because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil. They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. Sanctify them through thy truth. Thy word is truth. As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world. And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth. Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; that they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me. Father, I will that they also, whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am; that they may behold my glory, which thou hast given me, for thou lovedst me before the foundation of the world. O righteous Father, the world hath not known thee; but I have known thee, and these have known that thou hast sent me. And I have declared unto them thy name, and will declare it; that the love wherewith thou hast loved me may be in them, and I in them.”

Then Jesus and the disciples went out to the Mount of Olives.

Know Ye What I Have Done

Don C. Harris (AP) — Fri, 31 Jan 2025 15:00:00 -0600

"Lord, is it I?" Betrayer is here. Our friend, Jesus, is about to be crucified. He washed the feet of the disciples. "Know ye what I have done to you?" Jesus said. The subjective servant will be happy. "Believe in God, that He is who He says and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him." The step to receive God is through obedience. Jesus knew the betrayer was one of the twelve; "Lord, is it I?" So asked all the disciples. What will a man give in exchange for his soul? We must push, work, strive to enter the Kingdom of God.

***

108: Jesus At The Last Supper (Cont.)

Matthew 26:14-30; Mark 14:10-26; Luke 22:3-39; John 13:1-17:26

I Am The Vine

Jesus continued:

Then some of Jesus’ disciples said to each other:

“What is this that he saith unto us, ‘A little while, and ye shall not see me; and again, a little while and ye shall see me,’ and, ‘Because I go to the Father?’”

Therefore they reasoned:

“What is this that he saith, ‘A little while?’ We cannot tell what he saith.”

Jesus, knowing the questions that concerned them, said to his disciples:

The disciples said to Jesus:

Jesus answered them, saying:

Jesus Prays For His Disciples

Then Jesus lifted up his eyes Heavenward and said:

Then Jesus and the disciples went out to the Mount of Olives.

Be Diligent - It is not God's Job to Stop Us

Don C. Harris (AP) — Fri, 24 Jan 2025 15:00:00 -0600

Weighty instruction from the Son of Man. Jesus revealed his knowledge of his betrayal and coming crucifixion. "Lord is it I?" We each have a price. Follow diligently every day to develop self-control. Jesus moved resolutely to prepare his disciples through instruction, example and obedience. "Follow my example." Be a subjective servant to have joy. Aspire every day to become a better servant.

***

108: Jesus At The Last Supper

Matthew 26:14-30; Mark 14:10-26; Luke 22:3-39; John 13:1-17:26

Judas’ Bargain

EVIL HAD entered Judas Iscariot, and he had gone to the chief priests secretly and had said to them:

“What will ye give me, and I will deliver him unto you?”

When they promised to pay him thirty pieces of silver, he conspired how he could betray Jesus. From that moment he watched to see how he could deliver Jesus to the authorities in the absence of the multitude.

Preparation For The Passover

When the day for the sacrifice of the Passover arrived, Jesus called Peter and John to him and said to them:

“Go and prepare us the Passover, that we may eat.”

Peter and John replied, saying:

“Where wilt thou that we prepare?”

Jesus answered:

“Behold, when ye are entered into the city, there shall a man meet you, bearing a pitcher of water; follow him into the house where he entereth in, And ye shall say unto the goodman of the house, ‘The Master saith unto thee, “Where is the guest chamber, where I shall eat the Passover with my disciples?”’ And he shall show you a large upper room furnished. There make ready.”

Peter and John did as Jesus requested and made the preparations.

Jesus Pronounces This His Last Meal

When evening came, Jesus sat with his twelve disciples at their Passover Meal. Jesus said to them:

“With desire I have desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer. For I say unto you, ‘I will not any more eat thereof, until it be fulfilled in the kingdom of God.’”

And Jesus took the cup and gave thanks, and said:

“Take this, and divide it among yourselves. For I say unto you, ‘I will not drink of the fruit of the vine, until the kingdom of God shall come.’”

Jesus Washes The Disciples’ Feet

Jesus arose from the meal and poured water into a basin and washed the feet of his disciples, drying them with a towel.

Simon Peter said to Jesus:

“Lord, dost thou wash my feet?”

Jesus answered, saying:

“What I do thou knowest not now; but thou shalt know hereafter.”

Peter replied:

“Thou shalt never wash my feet.”

Jesus said to him:

“If I wash thee not, thou hast no part with me.”

Simon Peter answered him, saying:

“Lord, not my feet only, but also my hands and my head.”

Jesus answered, saying:

“He that is washed needeth not save to wash his feet, but is clean every whit and ye are clean, but not all.”

For he knew who was going to betray him. Thus Jesus said:

“Ye are not all clean.”

The Servant Is Not Greater Than His Lord

After he had washed all their feet and had resumed his seat again, Jesus said:

“Know ye what I have done to you? Ye call me ‘Master’ and ‘Lord’ and ye say well; for so I am. If I then, your Lord and Master, have washed your feet, ye also ought to wash one another’s feet. For I have given you an example, that you should do as I have done to you. Verily, verily I say unto you, ‘The servant is not greater than his lord, neither he that is sent greater than he that sent him.’ If ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do them.

“I speak not of you all: I know whom I have chosen. But that the Scripture may be fulfilled, ‘He that eateth bread with me hath lifted up his heel against me.’

Now I tell you before it come, that, when it is come to pass, ye may believe that I am he. Verily, verily, I say unto you, ‘He that receiveth whomsoever I send receiveth me, and he that receiveth me receiveth him that sent me.’”

The Betrayer Identified

Later Jesus said:

“But, behold, the hand of him that betrayeth me is with me on the table. And truly the Son of man goeth, as it was determined. But woe unto that man by whom he is betrayed!”

The apostles began to question among themselves as to who the traitor might be.

Then Jesus said:

“Verily I say unto you, ‘One of you which eateth with me shall betray me.’”

At this the apostles were very sorrowful, and each said:

“Lord, is it I?”

Jesus replied:

“He that dippeth his hand with me in the dish, the same shall betray me. The Son of man goeth as it is written of him. But woe unto that man by whom the Son of man is betrayed! It had been good for that man if he had not been born.”

Judas Iscariot, who had betrayed him, said to Jesus:

“Master, is it I?”

Jesus replied:

“Thou hast said.”

Who Is The Greatest?

An argument arose among the disciples as to which of them would be accounted the greatest. Jesus replied to them, saying:

“The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and they that exercise authority upon them are called benefactors. But ye shall not be so. But he that is greatest among you, let him be as the younger; and he that is chief, as he that doth serve. For which is greater: he that sitteth at meat, or he that serveth?

Is not he that sitteth at meat? But I am among you as he that serveth. Ye are they which have continued with me in my temptations. And I appoint unto you a kingdom, as my Father hath appointed unto me, that ye may eat and drink at my table in my kingdom, and sit on thrones judging the twelve tribes of Israel.”

Jesus Establishes Communion

Jesus took the bread and blessed it; then broke it and gave it to them, saying:

“Take, eat: this is my body.”

Thereupon Jesus took a cup, gave thanks, and passed it to the disciples, who drank from it. Then he said to them:

“This is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many.”

Farewell Advice

As Jesus sat with his disciples in the upper room, he said to them:

Thomas said to Jesus:

“Lord, we know not whither thou goest; and how can we know the way?”

Jesus replied:

“I am the way, the truth, and the life. No man cometh unto the Father, but by me. If ye had known me, ye should have known my Father also; and from henceforth ye know him, and have seen him.”

Phillip said:

“Lord, show us the Father, and it sufficeth us.”

Jesus said:

“Have I been so long with you, and yet hast thou not known me, Philip? He that hath seen me hath seen the Father; and how sayest thou then, ‘Show us the Father?’

Believest thou not that I am in the Father, and the Father in me? The words that I speak unto you I speak not of myself; but the Father that dwelleth in me, he doeth the works. Believe me that I am in the Father, and the Father in me. Or else believe me for the very works’ sake. Verily, verily, I say unto you, ‘He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do, because I go unto my Father.’ And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If ye shall ask anything in my name, I will do it.

Fix The World By Fixing Ourselves

Don C. Harris (AP) — Fri, 17 Jan 2025 15:00:00 -0600

"Occupy till I come." Troubling times arrived with the interrogation and condemnation of Jesus. The religious leaders declared, "...we will not have [Jesus] rule over us." This rejection led to the end of Jesus' physical ministry and his life. His disciples and followers were also considered transgressors. Now the followers of Christ are responsible for the will of God that is accomplished in the earth. My peace is not as the world gives. Jesus is not able to help or intervene directly; it's our job. We must hear the Word of God for guidance. Three ways to know when you have been regenerated: 1) Keep the commandments; 2) Spirit of God bears witness to us; and 3) love the brethren (with actions).

***

107: Jesus Predicts Peter’s Denial

Matthew 26:31-35; Mark 14:27-31; Luke 22:31-34; John 13:36-38

WHEN THEY came to the Mount of Olives, Jesus said to his disciples:

“All ye shall be offended because of me this night; for it is written, ‘I will smite the shepherd, and the sheep of the flock shall be scattered abroad.’ But after I am risen again, I will go before you into Galilee.”

Peter replied, saying:

“Though all men shall be offended because of thee, yet I will never be offended.”

Jesus answered him:

“Verily I say unto thee that this night, before the cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice.”

Peter answered:

“Though I should die with thee, yet I will not deny thee.”

All the disciples said the same.

Then Jesus said to his disciples:

“When I sent you without purse, and scrip, and shoes, lacked ye any thing?”

The disciples replied:

“Nothing.”

Jesus spoke to them, saying:

“But now, he that hath a purse, let him take it, and likewise his scrip; and he that hath no sword, let him sell his garment, and buy one. For I say unto you that this that is written must yet be accomplished in me, ‘And he was reckoned among the transgressors.’ For the things concerning me have an end.”

The disciples answered:

“Lord, behold, here are two swords.”

Jesus answered:

“It is enough.”

One of the disciples–Judas, but not Iscariot–asked Jesus:

“Lord, how is it that thou wilt manifest thyself unto us, and not unto the world?”

Jesus replied:

“If a man love me, he will keep my words; and my Father will love him and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him. He that loveth me not keepeth not my sayings; and the word which ye hear is not mine, but the Father’s which sent me. These things I have spoken unto you, being yet present with you. But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you. Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you; not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. Ye have heard how I said unto you, ‘I go away, and come again unto you.’ If ye loved me, ye would rejoice, because I said, ‘I go unto the Father;’ for my Father is greater than I. And now I have told you before it come to pass, that, when it is come to pass, ye might believe.

Hereafter I will not talk much with you; for the prince of this world cometh; and hath nothing in me. But that the world may know that I love the Father; and as the Father gave me commandment, even so I do. Arise, let us go hence.”

Passover Transition From A Lamb To A Man

Don C. Harris (AP) — Fri, 10 Jan 2025 15:00:00 -0600

Fulfilled! "Passover. . .A memorial of Me."

Generations pass, years pass, feast rehearsals pass. One day, that which was anticipated is fulfilled. Tradition is difficult to change; in fact, divine inspiration or revelation is required. The Scriptures record the result of the revelations of the Holy Spirit, which are received by some, but not all of the people present. John the Baptist recognized the Lamb of God by revelation. Peter recognized Jesus as the Son of God by revelation. The woman with the alabaster box of ointment recognized Jesus as the Messiah by revelation. There is a subtle, yet unmistakable distinction between those who see and those who are blind; those who hear and those who are deaf; those who understand the parable and those who do not. This message is not for everyone.

Revealed: "to make known through divine inspiration."

***

105: Jesus Predicts His Betrayal

Matthew 26:1-5; Mark 14:1, 2; Luke 22:1, 2

Two days before the feast of the unleavened bread, known as the Feast of the Passover, Jesus said to his disciples:

"Ye know that after two days is the Feast of the Passover, and the Son of man is betrayed to be crucified."

The chief priests, scribes, and elders of the people gathered together in the palace of Caiaphas, the high priest. They discussed how they might take Jesus by craft and slay him.

But they said:

"Not on the feast day, lest there be an uproar among the people."

***

106: Jesus Anointed With Ointment

Matthew 26:6-13; Mark 14:3-9; John 12:2-8

JESUS VISITED the house of Simon the leper, in Bethany.

As he sat to eat, a woman came to Jesus with an alabaster box of very costly ointment of spikenard, which she poured on his hair. Some were indignant at this, saying:

“Why was this waste of the ointment made? For it might have been sold for more than three hundred pence, and have been given to the poor.”

Jesus said:

“Let her alone. Why trouble ye her? She hath wrought a good work on me. For ye have the poor with you always, and whensoever ye will ye may do them good; but me ye have not always. She hath done what she could. She is come aforehand to anoint my body to the burying. Verily I say unto you, ‘Wheresoever this gospel shall be preached throughout the whole world, this also that she hath done shall be spoken of for a memorial of her.’”

Mission Impossible

Don C. Harris (AP) — Fri, 03 Jan 2025 15:00:00 -0600

Jesus came to show and teach that which we could not learn from the law and the prophets. The Sabbaths, Feasts and Torah observance could not reunite God and man. They could not provide the salvation Jesus came to bring. We think the success of Jesus was a given, almost a formality, as we peer into the fog of history. Alas. The authority of Jesus was rejected by the Jewish leadership and many of the people because of preconceived expectations for their physical liberation. So. Much. We. Don't. Know. Our generation is living on the other side of time, with our own preconceived expectations which veer far outside the descriptions carefully given by Jesus.

"Why call ye me Lord and not do what I say?"

Remember. Judgment day is coming.

***

Chapter 104: Jesus Speaks Of The Judgment Of The Son Of Man

Matthew 25:31-46

JESUS CONCLUDED his discourse with the following words about himself, saying:

“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. 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. And he shall set the sheep on his right hand, but the goats on the left. 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. For I was hungry, and ye gave me meat; I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink; I was a stranger, and ye took me in; naked, and ye clothed me; I was sick, and ye visited me; I was in prison, and ye came unto me.’ Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, ‘Lord, when saw we thee hungry, and fed thee; or thirsty, and gave thee drink? When saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in; or naked, and clothed thee? Or when saw we thee sick, or in prison, and came unto thee?’ 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.”’ 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. For I was hungry, and ye gave me no meat; I was thirsty, and ye gave me no drink; I was a stranger, and ye took me not in; naked, and ye clothed me not.’ Then shall they also answer him, saying, ‘Lord, when saw we thee hungry, or athirst, or a stranger, or naked, or sick, or in prison, and did not minister unto thee?’ Then shall he answer them, saying, ‘Verily, I say unto you, “Inasmuch as ye did it not for one of the least of these, ye did it not to me.”’ And these shall go away into everlasting punishment, but the righteous into life eternal.”

Prepare for the Long Run the Bridegroom Comes In Darkness

Don C. Harris (AP) — Fri, 27 Dec 2024 15:00:00 -0600

The trying of our faith is difficult and uncomfortable. The exemplars of our faith used the trials in the days of of light (or plenty) to build their confidence in YHVH and their relationship to him. There is a striving to gain the skills needed to enter the narrow path. We call it exercise in the physical realm. It is also true in the spiritual realm. The small experiences build our confidence in the love and care of our Father; so when the dark times come we are not afraid. We remember. We hope. We endure.

"My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing." James 1

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103: The Parable Of The Ten Virgins

Matthew 25:1-13

JESUS TOLD another parable, saying:

“Then shall the kingdom of Heaven be likened unto ten virgins, which took their lamps, and went forth to meet the bridegroom. And five of them were wise, and five were foolish. They that were foolish took their lamps, and took no oil with them; but the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps.

While the bridegroom tarried, they all slumbered and slept. And at midnight there was a cry made, ‘Behold, the bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet him.’

Then all those virgins arose, and trimmed their lamps. And the foolish said unto the wise, ‘Give us of your oil, for our lamps are gone out.’ 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.’ And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came; and they that were ready went in with him to marriage, and the door was shut. Afterward came also the other virgins, saying, ‘Lord, Lord, open to us.’ But he answered and said, ‘Verily I say unto you, “I know you not.”’

Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh.”

The Coming of Christ Will Not Be Secret

Don C. Harris (AP) — Fri, 20 Dec 2024 15:00:00 -0600

Our belief in Jesus compels certain actions. Not compulsion but the desire to return the boundless love of our Savior and King. Obedience to the commandments in stone and the ones written in our heart is the reasonable service of devoted children. Our desire is to imitate our Lord; to forgive as He forgives, for He forgives as we forgive. Acts of benevolence and charity are the sacrifices we bring. We love our God by loving His children (if you have done it even to the least of these, ye have done it unto me.) He notices. Our righteous actions gain the attention of our God. "Watch" he says to avoid being overtaken. The Spirit of God will reveal His plans to His faithful. Take this time seriously. Pay attention. Make sure you have quietness in life - daily times of introspection; that you may be found worthy to escape; worthy to stand before the Holy and Righteous Son of Man.

***

Chapter 102: Jesus Speaks About The Coming Judgment

Matthew 24:29-51; Mark 13:24-37; Luke 21:25-36

JESUS CONTINUED his discourse on the Mount of Olives, saying:

“Immediately after the tribulation of those days shall the sun be darkened, and the moon shall not give her light, and the stars shall fall from Heaven, and the powers of the Heavens shall be shaken. And then shall appear the sign of the Son of man in Heaven. And then shall all the tribes of the earth mourn, and they shall see the Son of man coming in the clouds of Heaven with power and great glory.

And he shall send his angels with a great sound of a trumpet, from one end of Heaven to the other. Now learn a parable of the fig tree: ‘When his branch is yet tender, and putteth forth leaves, ye know that summer is nigh.’ So likewise ye, when ye shall see all these things, know that it is near, even at the doors. Verily I say unto you, ‘This generation shall not pass, till all these things be fulfilled.’ Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away.

“But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of Heaven, but my Father only. But as the days of Noah were, so shall also the coming of the Son of man be. For as in the days that were before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until that day that Noah entered into the ark, and knew not until the flood came and took them all away, so shall also the coming of the Son of man be. Then shall two be in the field; the one shall be taken, and the other left. Two women shall be grinding at the mill; the one shall be taken, and the other left.

“Watch therefore, for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come. But know this, that if the goodman of the house had known in what watch the thief would come, he would have watched, and would not have suffered his house to be broken up.

Therefore be ye also ready, for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh.

“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 evening, 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.’

“And take heed to yourselves, lest at any time your hearts be overcharged with surfeiting, and drunkenness, and cares of this life, and so that day come upon you unawares. For as a snare shall it come on all them that dwell on the face of the whole earth. Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be counted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man.”

Pay Attention Lest Ye Be Deceived

Don C. Harris (AP) — Fri, 13 Dec 2024 15:00:00 -0600

Salvation requires faith. We are accustomed to reading the outcome of events in the Scriptures (a luxury not available until this age). One thing we know from reading them, the Scribes, Pharisees, and Sadducees were students of the Scripture. They were anticipating the arrival of Elijah and Messiah. They taught the people of Israel the signs, the resulting actions and the establishment of the Kingdom of God on the earth. Alas, they were wrong. Their expectations blinded them to the arrival of John and Jesus. Today, we too (via books, movies and preachers) have been schooled in the manner and result of Jesus return to the earth. To prepare for this unprecedented time we must rely on our relationship and the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Keep the commandments; never violate your conscience and take time every day to hear the voice of God. Forgive everyone. Live in a manner so that nothing will block your guidance.

***

"Surviving the End" https:// youtu.be/ rlTEu_JeFSY?feature=shared

***

Chapter 101: Jesus Predicts The Destruction Of The Temple And Coming Disasters

Matthew 24:1-28; Mark 13:1-23; Luke 21:5-24

AS JESUS came out of the temple, one of his disciples said to him:

“Master, see what manner of stones and buildings are here!”

Jesus replied:

“Seest thou these great buildings? There shall not be one stone left upon another, that shall not be thrown down.”

As Jesus sat on the Mount of Olives, near the temple, Peter, James, John, and Andrew came to him and asked:

“Tell us, when shall these things be? And what shall be the sign when all these things shall be fulfilled?”

Jesus replied:

“Take heed lest any man deceive you. For many shall come in my name, saying, ‘I am Christ;’ and shall deceive many. And when ye shall hear of wars and rumors of wars, be ye not troubled; for such things must needs be, but the end shall not be yet. For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. And there shall be earthquakes in divers places, and there shall be famines and troubles. These are the beginnings of sorrows.

“But take heed to yourselves, for they shall deliver you up to councils; and in the synagogues ye shall be beaten; and ye shall be brought before rulers and kings for my sake, for a testimony against them. And the gospel must first be published among all nations. But when they shall lead you, and deliver you up, take no thought beforehand what ye shall speak, neither do ye premeditate. But whatsoever shall be given you in that hour, that speak ye; for it is not ye that speak, but the Holy Ghost. 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. And ye shall be hated of all men for my name’s sake; but he that shall endure to the end, the same shall be saved.

“But when ye shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, standing where it ought not (let him that readeth understand), then let them that be in Judea flee to the mountains. And let him that is on the housetop not go down into the house, neither enter therein, to take anything out of his house. And let him that is in the field not turn back again to take up his garment. But woe to them that are with child, and to them that give suck in those days! And pray ye that your flight be not in the winter. For in those days shall be affliction, such as was not from the beginning of the creation which God created unto this time, neither shall be. And except that the Lord has shortened those days, no flesh should be saved. But for the elect’s sake, whom he hath chosen, he hath shortened the days. And then if any man shall say to you, ‘Lo, here is Christ,’ or ‘Lo, he is there,’ believe him not. For false Christs and false prophets shall rise, and shall show signs and wonders, to seduce, if it were possible, even the elect. But take ye heed; behold, I have foretold you all things. Wherefore, if they shall say unto you, ‘Behold, he is in the desert,’ go not forth; or, ‘Behold, he is in the secret chambers,’ believe it not. For as the lightning cometh out of the east and shineth even unto the west, so shall also the coming of the Son of man be. For wheresoever the carcass is, there will the eagles be gathered together.”

We Are The Temple of God

Don C. Harris (AP) — Fri, 06 Dec 2024 15:00:00 -0600

The restoration of the breach between Adam and YHVH required a willing and innocent sacrifice to restore communication and relationship. This bridge (atonement) was built by the faith and obedience of Jesus Christ (our example). Jesus said, "I always obey the Father." The success of Jesus allowed the presence of God to be moved from Herod's stone temple to the hearts of obedient men. This was an expected result of the coming Messiah – no longer would the sacrifices and temple services be required. Messiah, our High Priest, reigns in us!***

Chapter 100: Jesus Once More Speaks Of His Death And Resurrection

John 12:20-50

CERTAIN GREEKS had had arrived at Jerusalem for the feast days. They went to Phillip of Bethsaida in Galilee, saying:

“Sir, we would see Jesus.”

Phillip told Andrew of the request and both Phillip and Andrew went to Jesus with the message. Jesus replied:

“The hour is come, that the Son of man should be glorified. Verily, verily, I say unto you, ‘Except a grain of wheat fall into the ground and die, it abideth alone.’

But if it die, it bringeth forth much fruit. He that loveth his life shall lose it; and he that hateth his life in this world shall keep it unto life eternal. If any man serve me, let him follow me; and where I am, there shall also my servant be. If any man serve me, him will my Father honor. Now is my soul troubled; and what shall I say? Father, save me from this hour; but for this cause came I unto this hour. Father, glorify thy name.”

Then a voice from Heaven was heard, saying:

“I HAVE BOTH GLORIFIED IT, AND WILL GLORIFY IT AGAIN.”

Some of the people who heard the voice said it thundered. Others said:

“An angel spake to him.”

Jesus answered, saying:

“This voice came not because of me, but for your sakes. Now is the judgment of this world. Now shall the prince of this world be cast out. And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me.”

Thus Jesus signified how he was to die.

The people asked him:

“We have heard out of the law that Christ abideth forever. And how sayest thou, The Son of man must be lifted up?’ Who is this Son of man?”

Jesus replied to the people:

“Yet a little while is the light with you. Walk while ye have the light, lest darkness come upon you; for he that walketh in darkness knoweth not whither he goeth. While ye have light, believe in the light, that ye may be the children of light.”

When he finished speaking, Jesus left and hid himself from the multitude. Even though he had done so many miracles before their very eyes, still they did not believe in him. Thus was the prophecy of Isaiah fulfilled, that which said:

“Lord, who hath believed our report? And to whom hath the arm of the Lord been revealed? He hath blinded their eyes and hardened their heart, that they should not see with their eyes, nor understand with their heart, and be converted, and I should heal them.”

Nevertheless even among the chief rulers many believed in Jesus but, because of the Pharisees, they could not openly state their belief, lest they should be put out of the synagogue. They loved the praise of men more than the praise of God.

Jesus cried and said:

“He that believeth on me, believeth not on me, but on him that sent me. And him that seeth me seeth him that sent me. I am come a light into the world, that whosoever believeth on me should not abide in darkness. And if any man hear my words, and believe not, I judge him not; for I came not to judge the world, but to save the world. He that rejecteth me, and receiveth not my words, hath one that judgeth him. The word that I have spoken, the same shall judge him in the last day. For I have not spoken of myself; but the Father which sent me, he gave me a commandment, what I should say, and what I should speak. And I know that his commandment is life everlasting. Whatsoever I speak therefore, even as the Father said unto me, so I speak.”

Things Are Not Like We Think

Don C. Harris (AP) — Fri, 29 Nov 2024 15:00:00 -0600

Some effort is required to see beyond the present earthly circumstances in the teachings of Jesus. Obedience in tithing, no matter how small the gift, gains the attention of God. Offerings cannot be given to God until the tithes are paid. Jesus said tithing "mint and rue" should be done but not as the fulfillment of the law. Do justly. Love mercy. Walk humbly with your God - too. Don't rob God. Give not to get but as a loving child.

Jesus covert mission in the earth was not vindicated by large crowds or military style conquest. The murderous plans of the rebellious religious leaders toward Jesus interfered His original plan to be a willing sacrifice. We thwart God's plan when we operate on our own wit, rather than being led by the Spirit of God.

IMPORTANT! Keep the commandments. Take time every day to hear the voice of God. Never, ever violate your conscience.

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99: Jesus Praises Sincerity

Mark 12:41-44; Luke 21:1-4

JESUS STOOD in the temple watching rich men place gifts of money into the temple treasury. He saw a poor widow cast two mites, amounting to one farthing, therein.

Jesus said:

“Of a truth I say unto you, that this poor widow hath cast in more than they all. For all these have of their abundance cast in unto the offerings of God, but she of her penury hath cast in all the living that she had.”

***

100: Jesus Once More Speaks Of His Death And Resurrection

John 12:20-50

Certain Greeks had arrived at Jerusalem for the feast days. They went to Phillip of Bethsaida in Galilee, saying:

“Sir, we would see Jesus.”

Phillip told Andrew of the request and both Phillip and Andrew went to Jesus with the message. Jesus replied:

“The hour is come, that the Son of man should be glorified. Verily, verily, I say unto you, ‘Except a grain of wheat fall into the ground and die, it abideth alone.’ But if it die, it bringeth forth much fruit. He that loveth his life shall lose it; and he that hateth his life in this world shall keep it unto life eternal. If any man serve me, let him follow me; and where I am, there shall also my servant be. If any man serve me, him will my Father honor. Now is my soul troubled; and what shall I say? Father, save me from this hour; but for this cause came I unto this hour. Father, glorify thy name.”

Then a voice from Heaven was heard, saying:

“I HAVE BOTH GLORIFIED IT, AND WILL GLORIFY IT AGAIN.”

Some of the people who heard the voice said it thundered. Others said:

“An angel spake to him.”

Jesus answered, saying:

Thus Jesus signified how he was to die.

The people asked him:

“We have heard out of the law that Christ abideth forever. And how sayest thou, The Son of man must be lifted up?’ Who is this Son of man?”

Jesus replied to the people:

Jesus cried and said:

Jesus Came To Remove Communication Hindrances

Don C. Harris (AP) — Fri, 22 Nov 2024 15:00:00 -0600

The mission of Jesus was to become King of Israel, however, the rejection of Jesus by the religious leaders and their determination to remove Jesus through death (to rid Israel of this troublemaker); put an end to the plan and will of God. Read the gospels again and count the times instruction from Jesus was rejected. Many corrections were refused outright. Jesus observed their traditions were used to the make the will of God of no effect. A a moment of honest sobriety will reveal the conviction and need for change. We must also repent and become obedient children. Ready to be instructed by the Spirit of God from day to day. We must be born again.

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98: Jesus Rebukes The Scribes And Pharisees

Matthew 23:1-39; Mark 12:38-40; Luke 20:45-47

Jesus Rebukes The Scribes And Pharisees

Then Jesus spoke to the people that were assembled and to his disciples saying:

Pride

“The scribes and the Pharisees sit in Moses’ seat. All therefore whatsoever they bid you observe, that observe and do; but do not ye after their works; for they say, and do not. For they bind heavy burdens and grievous to be borne, and lay them on men’s shoulders; but they themselves will not move them with one of their fingers. But all their works they do for to be seen of men. They make broad their phylacteries, and enlarge the borders of their garments, and love the uppermost rooms at feasts, and the chief seats in the synagogues, and greetings in the markets, and to be called of men, ‘Rabbi, Rabbi.’ But be not ye called Rabbi; for one is your Master, even Christ, and all ye are brethren. And call no man your father upon the earth; for one is your Father, which is in Heaven. Neither be ye called masters; for one is your Master, even Christ. But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant. And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted.

Various Sins

“But woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For ye shut up the kingdom of Heaven against men; for ye neither go in yourselves, neither suffer ye them that are entering to go in. Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites!

For ye devour widows’ houses, and for a pretense make long prayer. Therefore ye shall receive the greater damnation. Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For ye compass sea and land to make one proselyte; and when he is made, ye make him twofold more the child of hell than yourselves. Woe unto you, ye blind guides, which say, 'Whosoever shall swear by the temple, it is nothing; but whosoever shall swear by the gold of the temple, he is a debtor.’

Ye fools and blind, for which is greater, the gold, or the temple that sanctifieth the gold? And, ‘Whosoever shall swear by the altar, it is nothing; but whosoever sweareth by the gift that is upon it, he is guilty.’ Ye fools and blind, for which is greater, the gift, or the altar that sanctifieth the gift?

Whoso therefore shall swear by the altar, sweareth by it, and by all things thereon. And whoso shall swear by the temple, sweareth by it, and by him that dwelleth therein. And he that shall swear by Heaven, sweareth by the throne of God, and by him that sitteth thereon. Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For ye pay tithe of mint and anise and cummin, and have omitted the weightier matters of the law, judgment, mercy, and faith. These ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone. Ye blind guides, which strain at a gnat, and swallow a camel, Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites!

For ye make clean the outside of the cup and of the platter, but within they are full of extortion and excess. Thou blind Pharisee, cleanse first that which is within the cup and platter, that the outside of them may be clean also. Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For ye are like unto whited sepulchers, which indeed appear beautiful outward, but are within full of dead men’s bones, and of all uncleanness. Even so ye also outwardly appear righteous unto men, but within ye are full of hypocrisy and iniquity. Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! Because ye build the tombs of the prophets, and garnish the sepulchers of the righteous, and say, ‘If we had been in the days of our fathers, we would not have been partakers with them in the blood of the prophets.’ Wherefore ye be witnesses unto yourselves, that ye are the children of them which killed the prophets. Fill ye up then the measure of your fathers. Ye serpents, ye generation of vipers, how can ye escape the damnation of hell?

Lament Over Jerusalem

“Wherefore, behold, I send unto you prophets, and wise men, and scribes. And some of them ye shall kill and crucify; and some of them shall ye scourge in your synagogues, and persecute them from city to city, that upon you may come all the righteous blood shed upon the earth, from the blood of righteous Abel unto the blood of Zacharias, son of Barachias, whom ye slew between the temple and the altar. Verily, I say unto you, ‘All these things shall come upon this generation.’ O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, thou that killest the prophets, and stonest them which are sent unto thee, how often would I have gathered thy children together, even as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings, and ye would not! Behold, your house is left unto you desolate. For I say unto you,‘Ye shall not see me henceforth, till ye shall say, “Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord.”’”

Can God Tell You What To Do

Don C. Harris (AP) — Fri, 15 Nov 2024 15:00:00 -0600

Instruction from Jesus is not a promise-box verse. You are not allowed to make another selection until you find one that pleases you. Our God is not ink on a page. Our God is ALIVE. Embrace the words of love and correction by Jesus.

Jesus was persecuted by the Church because He obeyed His Father. When we imitate Jesus, we will also be persecuted. Jesus preached, "Repent! [Change] to the Scribes and Pharisees. Jesus wanted them to be acceptable. Jesus wants the same for us. Changes are required to follow Jesus. Purge what other people think from your conscience. The peer pressure (or leaven) in our lives can make a permanent separation between us and our God. Will you accept instruction and correction from your Lord and Savior?

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98: Jesus Rebukes The Scribes And Pharisees

Matthew 23:1-39; Mark 12:38-40; Luke 20:45-47

Jesus Rebukes The Scribes And Pharisees

Then Jesus spoke to the people that were assembled and to his disciples saying:

Pride

Various Sins

Lament Over Jerusalem

Jesus Reconnaissance Mission To The Earth

Don C. Harris (AP) — Fri, 08 Nov 2024 15:00:00 -0600

Jesus came as a man without the understanding of the condition of mankind. The separation between Adam and Eve and God went further than they knew. Consider how often Jesus asked questions to discern the thoughts of the leadership and the people of Israel. Don't allow your doctrines to create separations. Work things out with one another.

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97: Jesus Asks: “What Think Ye Of Christ?”

Matthew 22:41-46; Mark 12:35-37; Luke 20:41-44

Jesus Asks: “What Think Ye Of Christ?”

At a time when many Pharisees were gathered around him, Jesus asked them:

“What think ye of Christ? Whose son is he?”

The Pharisees replied:

“The son of David.”

Then Jesus replied:

“How say they that Christ is David’s son?

And David himself saith in the book of Psalms, ‘The Lord said unto my Lord, “Sit thou on my right hand till I make thine enemies thy footstool.”’

David therefore calleth him Lord. How is he then his son?”

The people heard Jesus gladly, but no one was able to answer the question.

Led Of The Spirit of God

Don C. Harris (AP) — Fri, 01 Nov 2024 15:00:00 -0600

“But this I confess unto thee, that after the way which they call heresy, so worship I the God of my fathers, believing all things which are written in the law and in the prophets:” Acts 24:14

We have lost words, many pages and books in the Bible. It's okay. The Scriptures are not complete or perfect. This is not a deterrent to finding a relationship with Jesus Christ. The Lord Jesus said, if you keep my commandments, the Father (Holy Spirit) and I will teach you "from the inside."

Greatest commandment, "Shema, Israel." "Love the Lord your God with all your heart soul mind and strength; the second is like unto it, "Love your neighbor as yourself." I'm the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob; the God of the Living not the Dead. Silenced; not convinced.

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96: Jesus Is Asked Three Questions

Matthew 22:15-40; Mark 12:13-34, Luke 20:20-40

Shall We Pay Tribute To Caesar?

The chief priests, scribes, and elders sent spies into the multitude that gathered around Jesus, hoping that he might do or say something that would enable them to turn him over to the civil authorities.

These opponents of Jesus asked him, saying:

“Master, we know that thou art true, and teachest the way of God in truth, neither carest thou for any man; for thou regardest not the person of men. Tell us, therefore, what thinkest thou? Is it lawful to give tribute unto Caesar, or not?”

Jesus perceived the craftiness behind the question. He said:

“Why tempt ye me? Bring me a penny, that I may see it.”

When it was brought, he said to his tempters:

“Whose is this image and superscription?”

His opponents said:

“Caesar’s.”

Thereupon Jesus said to them:

“Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.”

Jesus’ enemies could find nothing in this answer that warranted accusing him; so they went away.

Which Of The Brothers Shall Have The Wife In The Resurrection?

Some Sadducees, a sect that denied that there was a resurrection, came to Jesus and said to him:

“Master, Moses wrote unto us, ‘If any man’s brother die, having a wife, and he die without children, his brother should take his wife, and raise up seed unto his brother.’ There were therefore seven brethren, and the first took a wife and died without children. And the second took her to wife and he died childless.

And the third took her and, in like manner, the seven also. And they left no children and died. Last of all the woman died also. Therefore in the resurrection whose wife of them is she, for seven had her to wife?”

Jesus replied to them:

“Do ye not therefore err, because ye know not the scriptures, neither the power of God?

For when they shall rise from the dead, they neither marry, nor are given in marriage; but are as the angels which are in Heaven. And as touching the dead, that they rise, have ye not read in the book of Moses how in the bush God spake unto him, saying, ‘I am the God of Abraham and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob?’ He is not the God of the dead, but the God of the living. Ye therefore do greatly err.”

Which Is the Greatest Commandment?

When the Pharisees learned that Jesus had silenced the Sadducees, one of them, a lawyer, asked Jesus:

“Master, which is the greatest commandment in the law?”

Jesus replied:

“The first of all the commandments is, ‘Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God is one Lord; and thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength.’ This is the first commandment.

And the second is like, namely this, ‘Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.’ There is none other commandment greater than these.”

The lawyer responded, saying to Jesus:

“Master, thou hast said the truth; for there is one God, and there is none other but he. And to love him with all the heart, and with all the understanding, and with all the soul, and with all the strength, and to love his neighbor as himself, is more than all whole burnt offerings and sacrifices.”

When Jesus heard the lawyer, he said:

“Thou art not far from the kingdom of God.”

After that, no man dared ask Jesus any question.

Jesus Came To Be King Of Israel

Don C. Harris (AP) — Fri, 25 Oct 2024 15:00:00 -0600

The expectation of Jesus was thwarted by the will of man. Jesus expected to be accepted by His people. His Father God also expected Jesus would become the King and Priest to His people. Things changed. The leadership was unwilling to accept the authority and leadership of Jesus. They were happy with the way things were "in the church". They desired a Messiah to overthrow Rome and to endorse their religion. Problem. Jesus came to correct the leadership. The Pharisees said, "We know you came from God because you don't care what people think of you." Jesus was leaven-free! Throughout the gospel story you read "what sayeth thou?" They expected Jesus to be different.

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96: Jesus Is Asked Three Questions

Matthew 22:15-40; Mark 12:13-34, Luke 20:20-40

Shall We Pay Tribute To Caesar?

These opponents of Jesus asked him, saying:

Jesus perceived the craftiness behind the question. He said:

“Why tempt ye me? Bring me a penny, that I may see it.”

When it was brought, he said to his tempters:

“Whose is this image and superscription?”

His opponents said:

“Caesar’s.”

Thereupon Jesus said to them:

“Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.”

Jesus’ enemies could find nothing in this answer that warranted accusing him; so they went away.

Which Of The Brothers Shall Have The Wife In The Resurrection?

Some Sadducees, a sect that denied that there was a resurrection, came to Jesus and said to him:

Jesus replied to them:

“Do ye not therefore err, because ye know not the scriptures, neither the power of God?

Which Is the Greatest Commandment?

When the Pharisees learned that Jesus had silenced the Sadducees, one of them, a lawyer, asked Jesus:

“Master, which is the greatest commandment in the law?”

Jesus replied:

And the second is like, namely this, ‘Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.’ There is none other commandment greater than these.”

The lawyer responded, saying to Jesus:

When Jesus heard the lawyer, he said:

“Thou art not far from the kingdom of God.”

After that, no man dared ask Jesus any question.

Jesus Rejected Because Of Who He Was Known To Be

Don C. Harris (AP) — Fri, 18 Oct 2024 15:00:00 -0600

Salvation cannot be bought, at the same time, it is not free. Accepting Jesus brings responsibilities. Correction by Jesus (his authority) was rejected by the leadership, even as it is to this day. The leaders understood Jesus expectation and realized the identity of the Son of God. The mistake of their rejection did not lead to the path of humility and repentance - falling on the rock. Rather, they sought to destroy the son of the Lord of the vineyard. Jesus did not back down. They understood the message. They rejected their LORD.

***

95: Jesus Tells Three Parables of Warning

Matthew 21:28-22:14; Mark 12:1-12; Luke 20:9-19

The Two Sons

Refusing to tell the chief priests, scribes, and elders the source of his authority, Jesus told a parable to his questioners, saying:

“But what think ye? A certain man had two sons; and he came to the first, and said, ‘Son, go work today in my vineyard.’ He answered and said, ‘I will not,’ but afterward he repented, and went. And he came to the second, and said likewise. And he answered and said, ‘I go, sir,’ and went not. Which of the two did the will of his father?”

The chief priests, scribes, and elders answered Jesus, saying:

“The first.”

Jesus replied:

“Verily I say unto you that the publicans and the harlots go into the kingdom of God before you. 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.”

The Vineyard And The Husbandmen

Then Jesus told another parable to the chief priests, scribes, and elders, saying:

“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. And when the time of the fruit drew near, he sent his servants to the husbandmen, that he might receive the fruits of it. And the husbandmen took his servants, and beat one, and killed another, and stoned another. Again, he sent other servants, more than the first; and they did unto them likewise. But last of all he sent unto them his son, saying, “They will reverence my son.” 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.” And they caught him, and cast him out of the vineyard, and slew him.’ When the lord therefore of the vineyard cometh, what will he do unto those husbandmen?”

The scribes, chief priests, and elders replied:

“He will miserably destroy the wicked men, and will let out his vineyard unto other husbandmen, which shall render him the fruits in their seasons.”

Jesus said to 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 marvelous in our eyes’? Therefore I say unto you, ‘The kingdom of God shall be taken from you, and given to a nation bringing forth the fruits thereof.’ And whosoever shall fall on this stone shall be broken; but on whomsoever it shall fall, it will grind him to powder.”

When the chief priests, scribes, elders, and Pharisees heard this, they knew Jesus had spoken regarding them. They would have attacked him, but they feared the multitude who considered Jesus a prophet.

The Wedding Feast

Jesus told another parable, saying:

“The kingdom of Heaven is like unto a certain king, which made a marriage for his son, and sent forth his servants to call them that were bidden to the wedding. And they would not come. 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.”’ But they made light of it, and went their ways, one to his farm, another to his merchandise. And the remnant took his servants, and treated them spitefully and slew them. But when the king heard thereof, he was wroth. And he sent forth his armies, and destroyed those murderers, and burned up their city.

Then he saith to his servants, ‘The wedding is ready, but they which were bidden were not worthy. Go ye therefore into the highways, and as many as ye shall find, bid to the marriage.’ 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. And when the king came in to see the guests, he saw there a man which had not on a wedding garment. And he saith unto him,

‘Friend, how camest thou in hither not having a wedding garment?’ And he was speechless. 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.’ For many are called, but few are chosen.”

Answer Me And I Will Answer You

Don C. Harris (AP) — Fri, 11 Oct 2024 15:00:00 -0600

"What think ye?" Jesus came to teach, to correct, and to divide; not for the purpose of division but to create an opening in thought for new information. An answer without context is of no benefit. Jesus looked to the audience to determine their understanding. The church leaders and the political leaders thought they were in charge. They did not expect, nor did they want input to the contrary. Jesus brought heavenly things to a three dimensional world. It's bound to get tricky!

***

93: Jesus Cleanses The Temple

Matthew 21:10-17; Mark 11:15-19; Luke 19:45-48

When Jesus came to Jerusalem he went into the temple. He began to cast out those who bought and sold therein, overthrew the tables of the moneychangers and the seats of those who sold doves. He would not permit anyone to carry anything through the temple. He taught and said:

“It is written, ‘My house shall be called the house of prayer,’ but ye have made it a den of thieves.”

The chief priests and scribes, when they saw the wonders Jesus performed, were greatly displeased and sought to destroy him but were afraid of the multitude who listened eagerly to his words.

Then the afflicted came to Jesus in the temple and were healed. The people listened attentively to his doctrines and were astonished at his words and deeds.

Children sang in the temple, saying:

“Hosanna to the son of David.”

The words of the children and the crowd angered the authorities, and the chief priests and scribes said to Jesus:

“Hearest what they say?”

Jesus replied to them:

“Yea, have ye never read, ‘Out of the mouth of babes and sucklings thou hast perfected praise?’”

***

94: Jesus Questioned As To His Authority

Matthew 21:23-27; Mark 11:27-33, Luke 20:1-8

As Jesus was teaching in the temple, preaching the gospel, the chief priests, scribes, and elders came to him, saying:

“Tell us, by what authority doest thou these things? Or who is he that gave thee this authority?”

Jesus answered them, saying:

“I also will ask you one thing, which if ye tell me, I in like wise will tell you by what authority I do these things. The baptism of John, whence was it? From Heaven, or of men?”

The chief priests, scribes, and elders reasoned with themselves, saying:

“If we shall say, ‘From Heaven,’ he will say, ‘Why then believed ye him not?’ And if we say, ‘Of men,’ all the people will stone us; for they be persuaded that John was a prophet.”

So they said to Jesus that they were unable to say the source of the baptism of John.

Thereupon Jesus replied:

“Neither tell I you by what authority I do these things.”

God Will Not Step Over Our Unbelief

Don C. Harris (AP) — Fri, 04 Oct 2024 15:00:00 -0600

We must partner with God in our salvation. The Sower sowed good seed. The faith of the people was hindered by the Jewish leadership. The environment was not receptive to the redemption of Israel by Christ. Being without proof of God we must believe in God by faith. "Without faith it is impossible to please Him." If we refuse the seed of the word of God we will die unfruitful, separated and lost. Believing in God because of proof is not faith. The will of man is stronger than God's will.

“...without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.” Hebrews 11:6

***

92: Jesus Condemns A Fig Tree

Matthew 21:18-22; Mark 11:12-14, 20-26

The next morning after his triumphal entry into Jerusalem, Jesus and his disciples left Bethany, where they had spent the night, to return to the city.

On the way Jesus was hungry. Seeing a fig tree from afar, he went to it expecting to find some fruit. But the tree contained nothing but leaves, for it was not the season for fruit. Jesus said to the tree:

“Let no fruit grow on thee henceforward forever.”

When next they passed the tree, seeing that it was withered from the roots up, Peter said to Jesus:

“Master, behold, the fig tree which thou cursedst is withered away.”

Jesus replied to him:

“Have faith in God. For verily I say unto you that whosoever shall say unto this mountain, ‘Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea,’ and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that those things which he saith shall come to pass; he shall have whatsoever he saith. Therefore I say unto you, ‘What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them.’ And when ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have ought against any, that your Father also which is in Heaven may forgive you your trespasses. But if ye do not forgive, neither will your Father which is in Heaven forgive your trespasses.”

93: Jesus Cleanses The Temple

Matthew 21:10-17; Mark 11:15-19; Luke 19:45-48

“It is written, ‘My house shall be called the house of prayer,’ but ye have made it a den of thieves.”

The chief priests and scribes, when they saw the wonders Jesus performed, were greatly displeased and sought to destroy him but were afraid of the multitude who listened eagerly to his words.

Then the afflicted came to Jesus in the temple and were healed. The people listened attentively to his doctrines and were astonished at his words and deeds.

Children sang in the temple, saying:

“Hosanna to the son of David.”

The words of the children and the crowd angered the authorities, and the chief priests and scribes said to Jesus:

“Hearest what they say?”

Jesus replied to them:

“Yea, have ye never read, ‘Out of the mouth of babes and sucklings thou hast perfected praise?’”

Never Jesus

Don C. Harris (AP) — Fri, 27 Sep 2024 15:00:00 -0600

Contrary to the tag-lines, God cannot do anything He wants; God does not know everything in advance; and He does not get His will. Adam was given free-will for this gift we judge God. Jesus said it best, "I did not come to condemn the world, the world was condemned already." When we reject the salvation of Jesus we seal our fate. We expect a "hanging judge" forgetting that a judge also has the power to acquit and reward those who strive with God. "Shall not the judge of all the earth do right?" God is trying to save us. We must work with Him in faith and obedience, "work out your own salvation with fear and trembling."

***

91: Jesus’ Triumphal Entry Into Jerusalem

Matthew 21:1-11; Mark 11:1-11; Luke 19:29-44; John 12:12-19

As Jesus led his followers toward Jerusalem and drew near to Bethpage and Bethany, at the Mount of Olives, he called two of his disciples to him and said to them:

“Go your way into the village over against you; and as soon as ye entered into it, ye shall find a colt tied, whereon never man sat; loose him, and bring him. And if any man say unto you, ‘Why do ye this?’ say ye that the Lord hath need of him; and straightway he will send him hither.”

This was done, that the words of the prophet might be fulfilled:

“Fear not, daughter of Zion. Behold, thy king cometh, sitting on an ass’s colt .”

At first his disciples did not understand these things but, when Jesus was glorified, they remembered that they had done those things that had been written by the prophet.

The two disciples went as directed by Jesus, and found the colt just as Jesus had told them. They began to untie the colt. The owners of it said to the disciples:

“Why loose ye the colt?”

The disciples replied as Jesus had instructed them, saying:

“The Lord hath need of him.”

Thereupon the owners permitted the disciples to take the ass. When the colt had been brought to Jesus, garments were thrown over and Jesus sat upon it.

Then, as Jesus descended the Mount of Olives, the great multitude spread their garments on the ground over which he would pass. Others cut branches from the trees and strewed the road with them to celebrate his entrance into Jerusalem.

The multitude joyously shouted:

“Hosanna; blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord. Blessed be the kingdom of our father David, that cometh in the name of the Lord. Peace in Heaven and glory in the highest. Hosanna in the highest.”

Some of the Pharisees spoke to Jesus, complaining about the shouting. They said:

“Master, rebuke thy disciples.”

Jesus answered them, saying:

“I tell you that if these should hold their peace, the stones would immediately cry out.”

Then the Pharisees said among themselves:

“Perceive ye how ye prevail nothing? Behold, the world is gone after him.”

When Jesus came near and beheld the city of Jerusalem, he wept over it and said:

“If thou hadst known, even thou, at least in this thy day, the things which belong unto thy peace! But now they are hid from thine eyes. For the days shall come upon thee, that thine enemies shall cast a trench about thee, and compass thee round, and keep thee in on every side. And shall lay thee even with the ground, and thy children within thee; and they shall not leave in thee one stone upon another; because thou newest not the time of thy visitation.”

Jesus entered into the city and the entire city was stirred with excitement and asked:

“Who is this?”

The multitude with Jesus answered them, shouting:

“This is Jesus, the prophet of Nazareth of Galilee.”

Jesus entered into the temple and looked around, but since it was now evening, he retired with his disciples to Bethany.

Prophecy Fulfillment Is A Condition Of Our Actions

Don C. Harris (AP) — Fri, 20 Sep 2024 15:00:00 -0600

"Surely, they will reverence my Son." The people of Israel had prophecies regarding the coming Messiah, yet even as the people accepted by faith the obvious identity of Jesus - he (and His Father) were rejected by the church leaders. This rejection did not allow the fulfillment of the prophecies of Jesus ministry. We presume that "everything happened according to the will of God." The gospel and the ministry of Jesus Christ required the participation of his people. Prophecies' may be fulfilled in many ways. Jesus always obeyed His Father even if the result directly contradicted the expectation of the religious leaders.

***

91: Jesus’ Triumphal Entry Into Jerusalem

Matthew 21:1-11; Mark 11:1-11; Luke 19:29-44; John 12:12-19

As Jesus led his followers toward Jerusalem and drew near to Bethpage and Bethany, at the Mount of Olives, he called two of his disciples to him and said to them:

This was done, that the words of the prophet might be fulfilled:

“Fear not, daughter of Zion. Behold, thy king cometh, sitting on an ass’s colt.”

At first his disciples did not understand these things but, when Jesus was glorified, they remembered that they had done those things that had been written by the prophet.

The two disciples went as directed by Jesus, and found the colt just as Jesus had told them. They began to untie the colt. The owners of it said to the disciples:

“Why loose ye the colt?”

The disciples replied as Jesus had instructed them, saying:

“The Lord hath need of him.”

Thereupon the owners permitted the disciples to take the ass. When the colt had been brought to Jesus, garments were thrown over and Jesus sat upon it.

The multitude joyously shouted:

Some of the Pharisees spoke to Jesus, complaining about the shouting. They said:

“Master, rebuke thy disciples.”

Jesus answered them, saying:

“I tell you that if these should hold their peace, the stones would immediately cry out.”

Then the Pharisees said among themselves:

“Perceive ye how ye prevail nothing? Behold, the world is gone after him.”

When Jesus came near and beheld the city of Jerusalem, he wept over it and said:

Jesus entered into the city and the entire city was stirred with excitement and asked:

“Who is this?”

The multitude with Jesus answered them, shouting:

“This is Jesus, the prophet of Nazareth of Galilee.”

Jesus entered into the temple and looked around, but since it was now evening, he retired with his disciples to Bethany.

Judgment Comes Out Of Our Own Mouths

Don C. Harris (AP) — Fri, 13 Sep 2024 15:00:00 -0600

What we do matters. The consequences of the free will of mankind extends beyond this life. We are required to love, to forgive, to judge righteous judgment. Out of our own mouths comes our judgment. We must act in faith, nothing wavering, as did Abraham. The Abrahamic covenant is the link to the coming of Christ, i.e. the completion of the work. We are required to occupy till our Lord returns.

***

89: Jesus Accepted By Zacchaeus, Chief Publican Of Jericho

Luke 19:1-10

As Jesus and the multitude following him passed through Jericho on their way to Jerusalem, a rich man, Zacchaeus, a leading publican of Jericho, sought to see Jesus. He was unable to get near him because of the vast throng, and he could not see over the heads of the crowd because he was short of stature. Therefore Zacchaeus ran ahead and climbed into a sycamore tree near which Jesus would walk. Jesus looked up, saw Zacchaeus, and said to him:

“Zacchaeus, make haste, and come down; for today I must abide at thy house.”

Zacchaeus descended and received Jesus with joy.

The multitude murmured that he was gone to be guest with a man that is a sinner.

Zacchaeus said to Jesus:

“Behold, Lord, the half of my goods I give to the poor; and if I have taken anything from any man by false accusation, I restore him fourfold.”

Jesus answered Zacchaeus, saying:

“This day is salvation come to this house, forsomuch as he also is a son of Abraham. For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.”

***

90: The Parable Of The Talents

Matthew 25:14-30; Luke 19:11-28

After this Jesus told a parable because he was near to Jerusalem and because many thought that the kingdom of God should appear immediately. He said:

“A certain nobleman went into a far country to receive for himself a kingdom, and to return. And he called his ten servants, and delivered them ten pounds, and said unto them, ‘Occupy till I come.’ But his citizens hated him, and sent a message after him saying, ‘We will not have this man to reign over us.’ 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 hath gained by trading. Then came the first, saying, ‘Lord, thy pound hath gained ten pounds.’ And he said unto him, ‘Well, thou good servant. Because thou hast been faithful in a very little, have thou authority over ten cities.’ And the second came, saying, ‘Lord, thy pound hath gained five pounds.’ And he said likewise to him, ‘Be thou also over five cities.’ And another came, saying, ‘Lord, behold, here is thy pound, which I have kept laid up in a napkin; for I feared thee, because thou art an austere man. Thou takest up that thou layedst not down, and reapest that thou did not sow.’ 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. Wherefore then gavest not thou my money into the bank, that at my coming I might have required mine own with usury?” And he said unto them that stood by, ‘Take from him the pound, and give it to him that hath ten pounds.’ For I say unto you that unto everyone which hath shall be given; and from him that hath not, even that he hath shall be taken away from him. But those mine enemies, which would not that I should reign over them, bring hither, and slay them before me.”

When he had finished, Jesus and his followers continued their journey into Jerusalem.

Opposites in the Kingdom of God

Don C. Harris (AP) — Fri, 06 Sep 2024 15:00:00 -0600

There is persecution, not honor, in Christianity for those who follow Jesus. Jesus came to serve, not to be served. The ambition and hierarchy of the church is an anathema to Christ. One is your Teacher, even Christ.

To begin the path to salvation, "Believe Jesus is who He says He is."

***

87: Jesus Replies To The Request Of John And James

Matthew 20:20-28; Mark 10:35-45

Two of Jesus’ disciples, John and James, the sons of Zebedee, came to him, saying:

“Master, we would that thou shouldest do for us whatsoever we

shall desire.”

Jesus answered:

“What would ye that I should do for you?”

James and John replied:

“Grant unto us that we may sit, one on thy right hand, and the other on thy left hand, in thy glory.”

Jesus answered them, saying:

“Ye know not what ye ask. Can ye drink of the cup that I drink of? And be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with?”

The two disciples replied:

“We can.”

Jesus said to them:

“Ye shall drink indeed of my cup, and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with. But to sit on my right hand, and on my left, is not mine to give, but it shall be given to them for whom it is prepared of my Father.”

The other ten disciples were displeased with James and John, because of this request. But Jesus called them all to him and said:

“Ye know that they which are accounted to rule over the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and their great ones exercise authority upon them. But so shall it not be among you: but whosoever will be great among you, shall be your minister; and whosoever of you will be the chiefest, shall be servant of all. For even the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.”

***

88: Jesus Heals Blind Bartimaeus

Matthew 9:27-31, 20:29-34; Mark 10:46-52; Luke 18:35-43

As Jesus and his followers left Jericho, blind Bartimaeus, the son of Timaeus, sat at the side of the road, begging.

Hearing the multitude going by, Bartimaeus inquired why the crowd had assembled. He was told that Jesus of Nazareth was passing.

So Bartimaeus raised his voice and cried out:

“Jesus, thou son of David, have mercy on me.”

Many rebuked him and told him to keep quiet, but he cried out even louder:

“Thou son of David, have mercy on me.”

Jesus stopped and asked that Bartimaeus be brought to him. The blind man arose from the ground and went toward Jesus when some sympathetic persons had said to him:

“Be of good comfort. Rise. He calleth thee.”

Jesus asked Bartimaeus:

“What wilt thou that I should do unto thee?”

The blind man replied:

“Lord, that I might receive my sight.”

Thereupon Jesus said to him:

“Go thy way; thy faith hath made thee whole.”

Immediately his sight was restored. He glorified God and followed after Jesus. The people, when they saw this miracle, praised God.

Forgiveness Requires Forgiveness

Don C. Harris (AP) — Fri, 30 Aug 2024 15:00:00 -0600

The parables of Jesus reveal the character and nature of His Father. God hired laborers of many nationalities to work in His vineyard. His offer of grace and forgiveness was extended beyond the people of Israel. The mission of Jesus changed because He was rejected by the religious leaders of Israel. The ambiguous language of the Scripture, the reading by Jesus of the scripture in Isaiah was cut short, the people were not willing to accept the authority of Jesus.

***

85: Jesus Tells A Story Of Some Workmen In A Vineyard

Matthew 20:1-16

When Jesus had finished his discussion of the difficulties in the path of a rich man entering into the kingdom of God, he told another parable, saying:

“For the kingdom of Heaven is like unto a man that is a householder, which went out early in the morning to hire laborers into his vineyard. And when he had agreed with the laborers for a penny a day, he sent them into his vineyard. And he went out about the third hour, and saw others standing idle in the marketplace.

And said unto them, ‘Go ye also into the vineyard, and whatsoever is right I will give you.’ And they went their way. Again he went out about the sixth and ninth hour, and did likewise. 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?’ 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.’

So when evening was come, the lord of the vineyard saith unto his steward, ‘Call the laborers, and give them their hire, beginning from the last unto the first.’ And when they came that were hired about the eleventh hour, they received every man a penny. But when the first came, they supposed that they should have received more; and they likewise received every man a penny. And when they had received it, they murmured against the good man of the house, 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.’ 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?’ So the last shall be first, and the first last. For many be called, but few chosen.”

86: Jesus Again Predicts His Death

Matthew 20:17-19; Mark 10:32-34; Luke 18:31-34

As they were on the way to Jerusalem, Jesus went on ahead by himself. His followers, going behind him, were surprised and disappointed at his leaving them. Jesus called his disciples to him and began to tell them the things that would happen to him, saying:

“Behold, we go up to Jerusalem and the Son of man shall be delivered unto the chief priests, and unto the scribes; and they shall condemn him to death, and shall deliver him to the Gentiles. And they shall mock him, and shall scourge him, and shall spit upon him, and shall kill him; and the third day he shall rise again.”

But the disciples did not understand what he was trying to tell them.

Everyone Saved Will Not Have The Same Reward

Don C. Harris (AP) — Fri, 23 Aug 2024 15:00:00 -0600

Jesus is different than we expect. He is loves, but His love is conditional. He is just, but His justice is based on our actions. He calls many, but not all. Those chosen must remain faithful to the end. We are required to deny ourselves, to take up our cross, to follow Christ.

What we do matters!

***

84: Jesus Tells Of The Temptation Of Riches

Matthew 19:16-30; Mark 10:17-31; Luke 18:18-30

A MAN came to Jesus and asked:

“Good Master, what shall I do that I may have eternal life?”

Jesus replied:

“Why callest thou me good? There is none good but one–that is, God. But if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments.”

The man asked:

“Which?”

Jesus replied:

“Thou shalt do no murder, thou shalt not commit adultery, thou shalt not steal, thou shalt not bear false witness. Honor thy father and thy mother, and thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.”

The man said to Jesus:

“All these things I have kept from my youth up. What lack I yet?”

Jesus, looking upon him, loved him and replied:

“One thing thou lackest. Go thy way, sell whatsoever thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in Heaven; and come, take up the cross, and follow me.”

When the man heard that, he went away sadly; for he had very great possessions. Then Jesus turned to his disciples and said:

“Verily I say unto you that a rich man shall hardly enter into the kingdom of Heaven.”

The disciples were astonished at these words. Seeing their surprise, Jesus said to them:

“Children, how hard it is for them that trust in riches to enter into the kingdom of God! It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God.”

The astonishment of the disciples was great. They said to one another:

“Who then can be saved?”

Jesus answered them saying:

“With men it is impossible, but not with God; for with God all things are possible.”

Thereupon Peter said to Jesus:

“Behold, we have forsaken all and followed thee. What shall we have therefore?”

Jesus replied to him:

“Verily I say unto you that ye which have followed me, in the regeneration when the Son of man shall sit in the throne of his glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. And every one that hath forsaken houses, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my name’s sake, shall receive a hundredfold, and shall inherit everlasting life. But many that are first shall be last; and the last shall be first.”

More to Completion Than The Sinners Prayer

Don C. Harris (AP) — Fri, 16 Aug 2024 15:00:00 -0600

The path to regeneration is to turn from your ways (repent); then, keep the Ten commandments. This act of continuing obedience reveals your belief and opens the door to communication. Communication from the Spirit of God leads to revelation of character flaws and the opportunity to make the changes required for perfection. The guidance we seek is the result of obedience. The move toward salvation is instant; the path to perfection is a progression - repentance, regeneration, endurance, and ultimately, salvation.

***

84: Jesus Tells Of The Temptation Of Riches

Matthew 19:16-30; Mark 10:17-31; Luke 18:18-30

A MAN came to Jesus and asked:

“Good Master, what shall I do that I may have eternal life?”

Jesus replied:

“Why callest thou me good? There is none good but one–that is, God. But if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments.”

The man asked:

“Which?”

Jesus replied:

“Thou shalt do no murder, thou shalt not commit adultery, thou shalt not steal, thou shalt not bear false witness. Honor thy father and thy mother, and thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.”

The man said to Jesus:

“All these things I have kept from my youth up. What lack I yet?”

Jesus, looking upon him, loved him and replied:

“One thing thou lackest. Go thy way, sell whatsoever thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in Heaven; and come, take up the cross, and follow me.”

When the man heard that, he went away sadly; for he had very great possessions. Then Jesus turned to his disciples and said:

“Verily I say unto you that a rich man shall hardly enter into the kingdom of Heaven.”

The disciples were astonished at these words. Seeing their surprise, Jesus said to them:

“Children, how hard it is for them that trust in riches to enter into the kingdom of God! It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God.”

The astonishment of the disciples was great. They said to one another:

“Who then can be saved?”

Jesus answered them saying:

“With men it is impossible, but not with God; for with God all things are possible.”

Thereupon Peter said to Jesus:

“Behold, we have forsaken all and followed thee. What shall we have therefore?”

Jesus replied to him:

“Verily I say unto you that ye which have followed me, in the regeneration when the Son of man shall sit in the throne of his glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. And every one that hath forsaken houses, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my name’s sake, shall receive a hundredfold, and shall inherit everlasting life. But many that are first shall be last; and the last shall be first.”

Speak With The Unction Of God

Don C. Harris (AP) — Fri, 09 Aug 2024 15:00:00 -0600

There are many misconceptions on divorce. The law had a provision for a divorce in the case of a maid or representation of a woman to be virginal, it was a matter of contract. Adultery is to be forgiven.

Be child-like. Deny yourself. Protect innocence. We need regeneration .

***

83: Jesus And The Little Children

Matthew 19:13-15; Mark 10:13-16; Luke 18:15-17

Some small children and infants were brought to Jesus and he was asked to bless them. His disciples rebuked those who had brought them.

This displeased Jesus greatly. He said to his disciples:

“Suffer the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not. For of such is the kingdom of God. Verily I say unto you, ‘Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child, he shall not enter therein.’”

And Jesus took them up in his arms, put his hands upon them, and blessed them.

***

82: Jesus Speaks Concerning Divorce

Matthew 19:1-12; Mark 10:1-12

Pharisees came to Jesus and asked, testing him:

“Is it lawful for a man to put away his wife?”

Jesus replied with a question, saying:

“What did Moses command you?”

The Pharisees replied to Jesus, saying:

“Moses suffered to write a bill of divorcement and put her away.”

Jesus replied to the Pharisees:

“For the hardness of your heart he wrote you this precept. But from the beginning of the creation God made them male and female. For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and cleave to his wife; and they twain shall be one flesh; so then they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.”

Later, when Jesus was alone with his disciples, they asked him again about the matter of divorce. He replied, saying:

“Whosoever shall put away his wife, and marry another, committeth adultery against her. And if a woman shall put away her husband and be married to another, she committeth adultery.”

Divorce

Don C. Harris (AP) — Fri, 02 Aug 2024 15:00:00 -0600

Jesus did not condemn the Samaritan woman for having multiple husbands. When she understood Jesus was a prophet, she went to a theological question about keeping the feasts. The Pharisees, on the other hand, approached Jesus about the rules for divorce. Jesus moved the issue from marriage to the heart. The nature of mankind is to attempt to keep the letter of the law while avoiding the plain meaning of the Scripture. The goal of Christianity is forgiveness and peace.

***

82: Jesus Speaks Concerning Divorce

Matthew 19:1-12; Mark 10:1-12

Pharisees came to Jesus and asked, testing him:

“Is it lawful for a man to put away his wife?”

Jesus replied with a question, saying:

“What did Moses command you?”

The Pharisees replied to Jesus, saying:

“Moses suffered to write a bill of divorcement and put her away.”

Jesus replied to the Pharisees:

“For the hardness of your heart he wrote you this precept. But from the beginning of the creation God made them male and female. For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and cleave to his wife; and they twain shall be one flesh; so then they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.”

Later, when Jesus was alone with his disciples, they asked him again about the matter of divorce. He replied, saying:

“Whosoever shall put away his wife, and marry another, committeth adultery against her. And if a woman shall put away her husband and be married to another, she committeth adultery.”

Universal Instruction Regarding The Kingdom Of God

Don C. Harris (AP) — Fri, 26 Jul 2024 15:00:00 -0600

The end will surely come. The appearance of Jesus will be universal and according to His word. First the tares will be taken, then the wheat. Take heart. Don't forsake prayer. Have faith in the salvation of Jesus and His Father. God is not unjust nor are the righteous forsaken. Don't be discouraged. Lay down your life. Pray to be worthy to stand in the evil day and to stand before the LORD Jesus at the judgment.

***

80: The Parable Of The Widow And The Judge

Luke 18:1-8

Jesus told a parable to his disciples to this end–that men ought always to pray, and not become discouraged, saying:

“There was in a city a judge, which feared not God, neither regarded man. And there was a widow in that city; and she came unto him, saying, ‘Avenge me of mine adversary.’ And he would not for a while. But afterward he said within himself, ‘Though I fear not God, nor regard man, yet because this widow troubleth me, I will avenge her, lest by her continual coming she weary me.’”

Jesus continued:

“Hear what the unjust judge saith. And shall not God avenge his own elect, which cry day and night unto him, though her bear long with them? I tell you that he will avenge them speedily. Nevertheless when the Son of man cometh, shall he find faith on the earth?”

***

81: The Parable Of The Pharisee And The Publican

Luke 18:9-14

Speaking to persons who believed themselves to be righteous, while they despised others, Jesus said:

“Two men went up into the temple to pray: the one a Pharisee, and the other a publican. The Pharisee stood and prayed thus within himself, ‘God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men are–extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican. I fast twice in the week, I give tithes of all that I possess.’ 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.’ 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.”

Daily Quiet Time To Hear

Don C. Harris (AP) — Fri, 19 Jul 2024 15:00:00 -0600

Do you set aside a daily time that is reserved for communication with the Spirit of God? The prophet Jeremiah records the interest of YHVH in communicating to his people. Listen to YHVH's tender heart, Jeremiah 44:4;

“Howbeit I sent unto you all my servants the prophets, rising early and sending them, saying, Oh, do not this abominable thing that I hate.”

Rising early. The first thing on the mind of YHVH is his people. His purpose and goal is to raise a people to do His will in the earth. Can you hear him?

***

79: Jesus Speaks About The Coming Of The Kingdom

Luke 17:20-37

The Pharisees asked Jesus when the kingdom of God would come. He answered them, saying:

“The kingdom of God cometh not with observation. Neither shall they say, ‘Lo here!’ or, ‘Lo there!’ for, behold, the kingdom of God is within you.”

Then Jesus said to his disciples:

“The days will come when ye shall desire to see one of the days of the Son of man, and ye shall not see it. And they shall say to you, ‘See here;’ or, ‘See there.’ Go not after them, nor follow them. For as the lightning, that lighteneth out of the one part under Heaven, shineth unto the other part under Heaven; so shall also the Son of man be in his day. But first he must suffer many things, and be rejected of this generation. 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 as it was in the days of Lot; they did eat, they drank, they bought, they sold, they planted, they bundled; 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. In that day, he which shall be on the housetop, and his stuff in the house, let him not come down to take it away; and he that is in the field, let him likewise not return back.

Remember Lot’s wife. Whosoever shall seek to save his life shall lose it; and whosoever shall lose his life shall preserve it. 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.”

The disciples asked:

“Where, Lord?”

Jesus replied:

“Wheresoever the body is, thither will the eagles be gathered together.”

Do What Jesus Tells You - Good Advice

Don C. Harris (AP) — Fri, 12 Jul 2024 15:00:00 -0600

The words of Jesus were intentional, exceptional and powerful. Consider the source! Indeed, Jesus healed lepers as a witness to his Jewish brethren. The strangers, Samaritan, Roman centurion, Syrophoenician received the word of God with faith and enthusiasm. There was a glaring lack of faith of the Jewish brethren toward both John and Jesus. They were looking for a "certain" Messiah and no amount of evidence was able to open the closed eyes of the Priests, Pharisees, and Sadducees.

***

78: Jesus Heals Ten Lepers

Luke 17:11-19

Jesus passed through Samaria and Galilee on a journey to Jerusalem. As he came to a village, ten men who were lepers stood off from him and cried out, saying:

“Jesus, Master, have mercy on us.”

Jesus answered them, saying:

“Go show yourselves unto the priests.”

As they went, they were healed. One of them, a Samaritan, when he realized that he was healed, returned to Jesus, fell on his face at Jesus’ feet, giving thanks and glorifying God in a loud voice.

Jesus, seeing him, asked:

“Were there not ten cleansed? But where are the nine? There are not found that returned to give glory to God, save this stranger.”

Then Jesus said to the grateful Samaritan:

“Airse, go thy way. Thy faith hath made thee whole.”

Be Careful How You Hear

Don C. Harris (AP) — Fri, 05 Jul 2024 15:00:00 -0600

Second death - resurrection at the end of the millennium; satan loosed - many follow him; Jesus only hath resurrection; Caiaphas prophesied unknowingly; one should die for the nation; Prophesy is not fortune/ future telling; Prophesy is rather a man speaking to men for God; sins make men unable to hear - ex. David & Nathan. History records that people kill men who speak for God.

We can only avoid deception by loving truth; not by memorizing the words of the bible.

Repent! Change! The Word of God can come from anyone i.e., a jackass, a drunk, preachers, strangers. Be careful how you hear;

***

77: Jesus Raises Lazarus From The Dead

John 11:1-53

Lazarus, the brother of Martha and Mary, whose home was in Bethany, was sick. The sisters sent a message to Jesus, saying:

“Lord, behold, he whom thou lovest is sick.”

When the word concerning Lazarus reached Jesus, he said:

“This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God might be glorified thereby.”

Jesus remained where he was for two days, and at the end of that time said to his disciples:

“Let us go into Judea again.”

His disciples replied:

“Master, the Jews of late sought to stone thee. And goest thou thither again?”

Jesus answered his disciples, saying:

“Are there not twelve hours in the day? If any man walk in the day, he stumbleth not, because he seeth the light of the world. But if a man walk in the night, he stumbleth, because there is no light in him.”

Then Jesus told his disciples why he wanted to go into Judea, saying:

“Our friend Lazarus sleepeth; but I go, that I may awake him out of sleep.”

The disciples, not knowing that Jesus meant that Lazarus was dead, thought only that he was resting in sleep. They said to Jesus:

“Lord, if he sleep, he shall do well.”

Then Jesus spoke plainly, saying to them:

“Lazarus is dead. And I am glad for your sakes that I was not there, to the intent ye may believe; nevertheless let us go unto him.”

Thomas, the disciple who was called Didymus, said:

“Let us go, that we may die with him.”

When Jesus arrived at Bethany, he found that Lazarus was dead and had been in his grave four days.

Because Bethany was near Jerusalem, about fifteen furlongs away, many Jews from that city had come to comfort Martha and Mary. When Martha heard that Jesus was approaching, she went out to meet him while Mary remained at home. She said:

“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 told Martha:

“Thy brother shall rise again.”

Martha said:

“I know that he shall rise again in the resurrection at the last day.”

Jesus said to her:

“I am the resurrection, and the life. He that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live. And whosoever believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this?”

Martha replied:

“Yea, Lord, I believe that thou art the Christ, the Son of God, which should come into the world.”

Then Martha returned to her house and told her sister, Mary, secretly:

“The Master is come, and calleth for thee.”

As soon as Mary heard that, she arose quickly and met Jesus at the same place where Martha had left him. She fell at his feet and said tearfully:

“Lord, if thou hadst been here, my brother had not died.”

When the Jews who had been in the house comforting Mary saw her rise hastily and leave, they followed her, saying:

“She goeth unto the grave to weep there.”

When Jesus saw Mary weeping and the Jews also in tears, he was sad and troubled. He asked:

“Where have ye laid him?”

They answered Jesus:

“Come and see.”

Jesus wept. And when the friends saw this they said:

“Behold how he loved him!”

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 and the others came to a cave with a stone upon it. It was the grave. Jesus said:

“Take ye away the stone.”

Martha replied:

“Lord, by this time he hath been dead four days.”

Jesus said to her:

“Said I not unto thee that, if thou wouldest believe, thou shouldest see the glory of God?”

Then the stone was removed from the grave. 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.”

Then Jesus cried out in a loud voice:

“Lazarus, come forth.”

At that command the dead Lazarus issued from the grave. He was bound hand and foot with graveclothes. A napkin was wrapped about his face:

Jesus said to the people:

“Loose him, and let him go.”

Because of this, many of the Jews believed in Jesus. But others went to the Pharisees and related what Jesus had done.

Thereupon the chief priests and Pharisees called together a council and said:

“What do we? For this man doeth many miracles. If we let him thus alone, all men will believe in him, and the Romans shall come and take away both our place and nation.”

One member of the council, Caiaphas, the high priest, said to the others:

“Ye know nothing at all. Nor consider that it is expedient for us, that one man should die for the people, and that the whole nation perish not.”

Thus did the high priest prophesy that Jesus should die for the nation. But he was to die, not for the nation alone, but that he should gather together the children of God who were scattered abroad.

From that day the priests and Pharisees planned to put Jesus to death.

Love Truth To Avoid Deception

Don C. Harris (AP) — Fri, 28 Jun 2024 15:00:00 -0600

Listen for the message behind the words of the Scripture. Who is speaking and to whom? Abraham received imputed righteousness because of his actions.

Why would Jesus apologize for praying in public? Why do we think its fine. Jesus was grieved that his people did not know him. Lazarus was healed to die again - not resurrected. Jesus' crowd had mixed appreciation.

Resuscitation of Lazarus was not a resurrection. The writers of Scriptures were intentional. Grace defined as unmerited favor (now the traditional meaning); is not based on Scripture.

***

77: Jesus Raises Lazarus From The Dead

John 11:1-53

Lazarus, the brother of Martha and Mary, whose home was in Bethany, was sick. The sisters sent a message to Jesus, saying:

“Lord, behold, he whom thou lovest is sick.”

When the word concerning Lazarus reached Jesus, he said:

“This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God might be glorified thereby.”

Jesus remained where he was for two days, and at the end of that time said to his disciples:

“Let us go into Judea again.”

His disciples replied:

“Master, the Jews of late sought to stone thee. And goest thou thither again?”

Jesus answered his disciples, saying:

Then Jesus told his disciples why he wanted to go into Judea, saying:

“Our friend Lazarus sleepeth; but I go, that I may awake him out of sleep.”

The disciples, not knowing that Jesus meant that Lazarus was dead, thought only that he was resting in sleep. They said to Jesus:

“Lord, if he sleep, he shall do well.”

Then Jesus spoke plainly, saying to them:

“Lazarus is dead. And I am glad for your sakes that I was not there, to the intent ye may believe; nevertheless let us go unto him.”

Thomas, the disciple who was called Didymus, said:

“Let us go, that we may die with him.”

When Jesus arrived at Bethany, he found that Lazarus was dead and had been in his grave four days.

“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 told Martha:

“Thy brother shall rise again.”

Martha said:

“I know that he shall rise again in the resurrection at the last day.”

Jesus said to her:

“I am the resurrection, and the life. He that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live. And whosoever believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this?”

Martha replied:

“Yea, Lord, I believe that thou art the Christ, the Son of God, which should come into the world.”

Then Martha returned to her house and told her sister, Mary, secretly:

“The Master is come, and calleth for thee.”

As soon as Mary heard that, she arose quickly and met Jesus at the same place where Martha had left him. She fell at his feet and said tearfully:

“Lord, if thou hadst been here, my brother had not died.”

When the Jews who had been in the house comforting Mary saw her rise hastily and leave, they followed her, saying:

“She goeth unto the grave to weep there.”

When Jesus saw Mary weeping and the Jews also in tears, he was sad and troubled. He asked:

“Where have ye laid him?”

They answered Jesus:

“Come and see.”

Jesus wept. And when the friends saw this they said:

“Behold how he loved him!”

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 and the others came to a cave with a stone upon it. It was the grave. Jesus said:

“Take ye away the stone.”

Martha replied:

“Lord, by this time he hath been dead four days.”

Jesus said to her:

“Said I not unto thee that, if thou wouldest believe, thou shouldest see the glory of God?”

Then the stone was removed from the grave. 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.”

Then Jesus cried out in a loud voice:

“Lazarus, come forth.”

At that command the dead Lazarus issued from the grave. He was bound hand and foot with graveclothes. A napkin was wrapped about his face:

Jesus said to the people:

“Loose him, and let him go.”

Because of this, many of the Jews believed in Jesus. But others went to the Pharisees and related what Jesus had done.

Thereupon the chief priests and Pharisees called together a council and said:

“What do we? For this man doeth many miracles. If we let him thus alone, all men will believe in him, and the Romans shall come and take away both our place and nation.”

One member of the council, Caiaphas, the high priest, said to the others:

“Ye know nothing at all. Nor consider that it is expedient for us, that one man should die for the people, and that the whole nation perish not.”

Thus did the high priest prophesy that Jesus should die for the nation. But he was to die, not for the nation alone, but that he should gather together the children of God who were scattered abroad.

From that day the priests and Pharisees planned to put Jesus to death.

Intensifying Miracles Made Jesus Identity Undeniable

Don C. Harris (AP) — Fri, 21 Jun 2024 15:00:00 -0600

What got Jesus killed? It was the undeniable acts of proof of his identity as the son of God; Messiah. …healing moved from internal medicine; to irrefutable healings; opening blind eyes, raised Lazarus from death after 4 days; Pharisees planed to kill Jesus (and Lazarus); all men will follow him; Lazarus - whom you love; waits two days; 12 hours in the day; Jesus was brave!; have to work for the night comes; Jesus asked questions - He didn't know everything; Jesus listened to the Father; he was as one of us; die, sleep; Spirit goes to God; creation of Adam - man became a living soul; body and breath; Word of God - JESUS; alive and powerful; Dead = sleep; Didymus (twin to Jesus); live and believe in me? - NEVER DIE;

Lord, increase our faith.

***

77: Jesus Raises Lazarus From The Dead

John 11:1-53

Lazarus, the brother of Martha and Mary, whose home was in Bethany, was sick. The sisters sent a message to Jesus, saying:

“Lord, behold, he whom thou lovest is sick.”

When the word concerning Lazarus reached Jesus, he said:

“This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God might be glorified thereby.”

Jesus remained where he was for two days, and at the end of that time said to his disciples:

“Let us go into Judea again.”

His disciples replied:

“Master, the Jews of late sought to stone thee. And goest thou thither again?”

Jesus answered his disciples, saying:

Then Jesus told his disciples why he wanted to go into Judea, saying:

“Our friend Lazarus sleepeth; but I go, that I may awake him out of sleep.”

The disciples, not knowing that Jesus meant that Lazarus was dead, thought only that he was resting in sleep. They said to Jesus:

“Lord, if he sleep, he shall do well.”

Then Jesus spoke plainly, saying to them:

“Lazarus is dead. And I am glad for your sakes that I was not there, to the intent ye may believe; nevertheless let us go unto him.”

Thomas, the disciple who was called Didymus, said:

“Let us go, that we may die with him.”

When Jesus arrived at Bethany, he found that Lazarus was dead and had been in his grave four days.

“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 told Martha:

“Thy brother shall rise again.”

Martha said:

“I know that he shall rise again in the resurrection at the last day.”

Jesus said to her:

“I am the resurrection, and the life. He that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live. And whosoever believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this?”

Martha replied:

“Yea, Lord, I believe that thou art the Christ, the Son of God, which should come into the world.”

Then Martha returned to her house and told her sister, Mary, secretly:

“The Master is come, and calleth for thee.”

As soon as Mary heard that, she arose quickly and met Jesus at the same place where Martha had left him. She fell at his feet and said tearfully:

“Lord, if thou hadst been here, my brother had not died.”

When the Jews who had been in the house comforting Mary saw her rise hastily and leave, they followed her, saying:

“She goeth unto the grave to weep there.”

When Jesus saw Mary weeping and the Jews also in tears, he was sad and troubled. He asked:

“Where have ye laid him?”

They answered Jesus:

“Come and see.”

Jesus wept. And when the friends saw this they said:

“Behold how he loved him!”

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 and the others came to a cave with a stone upon it. It was the grave. Jesus said:

“Take ye away the stone.”

Martha replied:

“Lord, by this time he hath been dead four days.”

Jesus said to her:

“Said I not unto thee that, if thou wouldest believe, thou shouldest see the glory of God?”

Then the stone was removed from the grave. 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.”

Then Jesus cried out in a loud voice:

“Lazarus, come forth.”

At that command the dead Lazarus issued from the grave. He was bound hand and foot with graveclothes. A napkin was wrapped about his face:

Jesus said to the people:

“Loose him, and let him go.”

Because of this, many of the Jews believed in Jesus. But others went to the Pharisees and related what Jesus had done.

Thereupon the chief priests and Pharisees called together a council and said:

“What do we? For this man doeth many miracles. If we let him thus alone, all men will believe in him, and the Romans shall come and take away both our place and nation.”

One member of the council, Caiaphas, the high priest, said to the others:

“Ye know nothing at all. Nor consider that it is expedient for us, that one man should die for the people, and that the whole nation perish not.”

Thus did the high priest prophesy that Jesus should die for the nation. But he was to die, not for the nation alone, but that he should gather together the children of God who were scattered abroad.

From that day the priests and Pharisees planned to put Jesus to death.

God Is Upset When We Are Not Good To Each Other

Don C. Harris (AP) — Fri, 14 Jun 2024 15:00:00 -0600

"Go and learn." The expectation of Christianity is that we imitate our LORD Jesus. We cannot make a gift (or be a profitable servant) when we have not done that which is required.

How to HEAR from God:

1) Keep the Commandments;

2) Obey your conscience;

3) Take time daily to LISTEN;

If you have twenty minutes with the God of the Universe, who should be still?

***

76: Jesus Teaches His Disciples Repentance, Faith, and Service

Luke 17:1-10

When Jesus had completed the parable of Lazarus and the rich man, he turned to his disciples and said:

“It is impossible but that offenses will come. But woe unto him through whom they come! 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.

Take heed to yourselves. If thy brother trespass against thee, rebuke him; and if he repent, forgive him. 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.”

The apostles said to Jesus:

“Increase our faith.”

Jesus replied:

“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. 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?’ 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?’ Doth he thank that servant because he did the things that were commanded him? I trow [think] not. 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.’”

Racism: Hatred Without Cause

Don C. Harris (AP) — Fri, 07 Jun 2024 15:00:00 -0600

There is a standard of behavior required of Christians. Sin creates an impact on our neighbor, on our relationship with God and on our own life. The Ten Commandments (Exodus 20) reveal the secret to achieve a happy life and to open the door for communication from God.

Matt. 22: 36-39 "Master, which is the great commandment in the law? Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself."

Strive to enter into the narrow gate.

***

76: Jesus Teaches His Disciples Repentance, Faith, and Service

Luke 17:1-10

When Jesus had completed the parable of Lazarus and the rich man, he turned to his disciples and said:

“It is impossible but that offenses will come. But woe unto him through whom they come! 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.

Take heed to yourselves. If thy brother trespass against thee, rebuke him; and if he repent, forgive him. 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.”

The apostles said to Jesus:

“Increase our faith.”

Jesus replied:

“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. 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?’ 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?’ Doth he thank that servant because he did the things that were commanded him? I trow [think] not. 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.’”

How Can We Follow Jesus If We Can't Hear Him

Don C. Harris (AP) — Fri, 31 May 2024 15:00:00 -0600

Listen for the Word of God beyond the obvious story of the parable. The scriptures reveal sin creates distance between God and man. Remember when God tried to speak to the people of Israel? The people were not purified to handle the righteousness of God. In like manner, we must strive for righteousness. Communication is severed if we violate the ten commandments. Strive to obey. Jesus will teach us from the inside - IF - we keep the commandments.

~ Hold the dogma and doctrines of church traditions in an open hand.

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75: Jesus Warns In Parables

Luke 16:1-31

Jesus told a parable to his disciples, saying:

The Rich Man And Lazarus

When the Pharisees, who were covetous, heard Jesus, they derided him.

So Jesus told a parable to the Pharisees, saying:

“Ye are they which justify yourselves before men; but God knoweth your hearts; for that which is highly esteemed among men is abomination in the sight of God. The law and the prophets were until John. Since that time the kingdom of God is preached, and every man presseth into it. And it is easier for Heaven and earth to pass, than one tittle of the law to fail. Whosoever putteth away his wife, and marrieth another, committeth adultery; and whosoever marrieth her that is put away from her husband committeth adultery.

“There was a certain rich man, which was clothed in purple and fine linen, and fared sumptuously every day. And there was a certain beggar named Lazarus, which was laid at his gate, full of sores, and desiring to be fed with the crumbs which fell from the rich man’s table. Moreover the dogs came and licked his sores.

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; and in hell he lift up his eyes, being in torments, and seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom. 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.’ 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. 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. Then he said, ‘I pray thee therefore, father, that thou wouldest send him to my father’s house, for I have five brethren, that he may testify unto them, lest they also come into this place of torment.’ Abraham saith unto him, ‘They have Moses and the prophets; let them hear them.’ And he said, ‘Nay, father Abraham, but if one went unto them from the dead, they will repent.’ And he said unto him, ‘If they hear not Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded, though one rose from the dead.’”

Jesus Warns

Don C. Harris (AP) — Fri, 24 May 2024 15:00:00 -0600

The parables go beyond the surface question to the heart of the matter under discussion and end with the immutability of God's law. Things are not the way we think they are; strive to know God. Laws are God's personality on paper - obey God, not creeds. Fear God. Air of humility. Do what you are told to do. We do not know. What we know versus what is to be known reveals we do not know anything.

"Think Red Ink" autobiography by Don C. Harris

***

75: Jesus Warns In Parables

Luke 16:1-31

The Unjust Steward

Jesus told a parable to his disciples, saying:

“There was a certain rich man, which had a steward; and the same was accused unto him that he had wasted his goods. And he called unto 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.’ 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. I am resolved what to do, that, when I am put out of the stewardship, they may receive me into their houses.’ So he called every one of his lord’s debtors unto him, and said unto the first, ‘How much owest thou unto my lord?’

And he said, ‘A hundred measures of oil.’ And he said unto him, ‘Take thy bill, and sit down quickly, and write fifty.’ Then said he to another, ‘And how much owest thou?’ And he said, ‘A hundred measures of wheat.’ And he said unto him,

‘Take thy bill, and write fourscore.’ 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. 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.’ He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much. If therefore ye have not been faithful in the unrighteous mammon, who will commit to your trust the true riches? And if ye have not been faithful in that which is another man’s, who shall give you that which is your own?

“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.”

The Rich Man And Lazarus

When the Pharisees, who were covetous, heard Jesus, they derided him.

So Jesus told a parable to the Pharisees, saying:

“Ye are they which justify yourselves before men; but God knoweth your hearts; for that which is highly esteemed among men is abomination in the sight of God. The law and the prophets were until John. Since that time the kingdom of God is preached, and every man presseth into it. And it is easier for Heaven and earth to pass, than one tittle of the law to fail. Whosoever putteth away his wife, and marrieth another, committeth adultery; and whosoever marrieth her that is put away from her husband committeth adultery.

“There was a certain rich man, which was clothed in purple and fine linen, and fared sumptuously every day. And there was a certain beggar named Lazarus, which was laid at his gate, full of sores, and desiring to be fed with the crumbs which fell from the rich man’s table. Moreover the dogs came and licked his sores.

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; and in hell he lift up his eyes, being in torments, and seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom. 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.’ 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. 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. Then he said, ‘I pray thee therefore, father, that thou wouldest send him to my father’s house, for I have five brethren, that he may testify unto them, lest they also come into this place of torment.’ Abraham saith unto him, ‘They have Moses and the prophets; let them hear them.’ And he said, ‘Nay, father Abraham, but if one went unto them from the dead, they will repent.’ And he said unto him, ‘If they hear not Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded, though one rose from the dead.’”

Parables: Hidden Messages For Those With Ears To Hear

Don C. Harris (AP) — Fri, 17 May 2024 15:00:00 -0600

Salvation requires a commitment. Jesus provides the door and the opportunity for the reversal of our "condemned" sentence. However, we are required to participate in our salvation; to pursue the truth and salvation offered. We are required to leave the crowd and follow Jesus.

Consider the conditions in this message.

Lost Sheep - stupid, wandered off; focused on personal space; life, neglect; never pursued religion. We are born lost.
Lost Coin - one of ten coins; discovery of loss resulted in diligent searching. There are 10 commandments - we lost one; innocent, careless. We must pursue the commandments to please God.
Lost Son - from in the Father's house decided to wander. Rebellious (i.e., witchcraft), covetous. Nothing erases our responsibility to be part of the family.

There's a downturn in the investment of God in restoring His relationship with man. First, there is a one percent loss; then a ten percent loss; finally, He lost everything.

***

74: Jesus Teaches About God’s Love In Parables

Luke 15:1-32

Jesus Teaches About God’s Love In Parables

The Lost Sheep

Among the many people who came to hear and see Jesus were publicans and sinners.

The Pharisees and scribes murmured among themselves, saying:

“This man receiveth sinners and eateth with them.”

Jesus told a parable, saying:

“What man of you, having a 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? And when he hath found it, he layeth it on his shoulders, rejoicing.

And when he cometh home, he calleth together his friends and neighbors, saying unto them, ‘Rejoice with me; for I have found my sheep which was lost.’ 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.”

The Lost Coin

Jesus continued saying:

“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 til she find it? And when she hath found it, she calleth her friends and her neighbors 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.”

The Prodigal Son

Jesus continued:

“A certain man had two sons. 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.

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.

And when he had spent all, there arose a mighty famine in that land, and he began to be in want. And he went and joined himself to a citizen of that country; and he sent him into his fields to feed swine. And he would fain have filled his belly with the husks that the swine did eat; and no man gave unto him. 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! I will arise and go to my father, and will say unto him, “Father, I have sinned against Heaven, and before thee, and am no more worthy to be called thy son. Make me as one of thy hired servants.”’ 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. 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.’ 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. And bring hither the fatted calf, and kill it; and let us eat, and be merry. For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found.’ And they began to be merry.

Now his elder son was in the field; and as he came and drew nigh to the house, he heard music and dancing. And he called one of the servants and asked what these things meant. 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.’ And he was angry, and would not go in.

Therefore came his father out, and entreated him. 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. But as soon as this thy son was come, which hath devoured thy living with harlots, thou hast killed for him the fatted calf.’ And he said unto him, ‘Son thou art ever with me, and all that I have is thine. 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.’”

Discipleship Requires Character

Don C. Harris (AP) — Fri, 10 May 2024 15:00:00 -0600

Salvation, certainly discipleship, is a journey. We must repent (make changes) as imperfections are revealed. This is an individual walk, a striving to enter the narrow gate, to make a life of character that is worthy to offer our Savior and King.

How can we hear the instructions of the Holy Spirit? Here's the initial steps: 1) Keep the Ten Commandments. 2) Take time every day to hear the voice of God. 3) Never, ever violate your conscience.

The Bible is full of conditional promises.

***

73 & 74: Jesus Teaches About God’s Love In Parables

Luke 15:1-32

The Lost Sheep

Among the many people who came to hear and see Jesus were publicans and sinners.

The Pharisees and scribes murmured among themselves, saying:

“This man receiveth sinners and eateth with them.”

Jesus told a parable, saying:

“What man of you, having a 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? And when he hath found it, he layeth it on his shoulders, rejoicing. And when he cometh home, he calleth together his friends and neighbors, saying unto them, ‘Rejoice with me; for I have found my sheep which was lost.’ 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.”

The Lost Coin

Jesus continued saying:

“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 til she find it? And when she hath found it, she calleth her friends and her neighbors 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.”

The Prodigal Son

Jesus continued:

“A certain man had two sons. 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.

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.

And when he had spent all, there arose a mighty famine in that land, and he began to be in want. And he went and joined himself to a citizen of that country; and he sent him into his fields to feed swine. And he would fain have filled his belly with the husks that the swine did eat; and no man gave unto him. 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! I will arise and go to my father, and will say unto him, “Father, I have sinned against Heaven, and before thee, and am no more worthy to be called thy son. Make me as one of thy hired servants.”’ 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. 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.’ 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. And bring hither the fatted calf, and kill it; and let us eat, and be merry. For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found.’ And they began to be merry.

Now his elder son was in the field; and as he came and drew nigh to the house, he heard music and dancing. And he called one of the servants and asked what these things meant. 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.’ And he was angry, and would not go in. Therefore came his father out, and entreated him. 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. But as soon as this thy son was come, which hath devoured thy living with harlots, thou hast killed for him the fatted calf.’ And he said unto him, ‘Son thou art ever with me, and all that I have is thine. 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.’”

The Cost of Discipleship

Don C. Harris (AP) — Fri, 03 May 2024 15:00:00 -0600

The journey to salvation begins with repentance (i.e., making changes as prompted by the Holy Spirit) and is completed with the achievement of "enduring till the end." One is our Teacher, even Christ.

Little children, let no man deceive you: he that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as he is righteous. He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil. Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God. In this the children of God are manifest, and the children of the devil: whosoever doeth not righteousness is not of God, neither he that loveth not his brother. For this is the message that ye heard from the beginning, that we should love one another. 1 John 3:7-11

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73: Jesus Tells The Cost Of Discipleship

Luke 14:25-35

Great multitudes followed Jesus. He said to them:

“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 whoever 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.’ Or what king, going to make war against another king, sitteth not down first, and consulteth whether he be able with ten thousand to meet him that cometh against him with twenty thousand? Or else, while the other is yet a great way off, he sendeth an embassage, and desireth conditions of peace. So likewise, whosoever he be of you that forsaketh not all that he hath, he cannot be my disciple.

“Salt is good; but if the salt have lost his savor, wherewith shall it be seasoned? It is neither fit for the land, nor yet for the dunghill; but men cast it out. He that hath ears to hear, let him hear.”

The Way To The Kingdom of God Is Hard

Don C. Harris (AP) — Fri, 26 Apr 2024 15:00:00 -0600

The Jews refused or were unable to reconcile their preconceived ideas to the reality of Messiah. They did not expect Jesus to minister the way He did, in spite of many miraculous signs. The leaders were unwilling to give up their religious protocols or animal sacrifices. They could not hear, "I will have mercy and not sacrifice." Jesus came to be King and High Priest of Israel and to remove the temple.

To this day Jesus is rejected by the Jews because of unfulfilled prophecies; again, unable to see how their rejection of Jesus led to His crucifixion and the interruption of Jesus' work on the earth. To avoid similar misunderstandings we must hear from the Spirit of God. How?

1) Keep the Commandments (the big ten).

2) Take time every day to hear from God (meditate).

3) Never disobey your conscience.

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70: Jesus Reveals That The Way Into The Kingdom Is Difficult

Luke 13:22-30

Jesus went through cities and villages, teaching. As he journeyed toward Jerusalem, one who went with him said:

“Lord, are there few that be saved?”

Jesus replied:

“Strive to enter in at the straight gate; for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able. When once the master of the house is risen up, and hath shut the door, and ye begin to stand without, and to knock at the door, saying,

‘Lord, Lord, open unto us;’ and he shall answer and say unto you, ‘I know you not whence ye are’ – then shall ye begin to say, ‘We have eaten and drunk in thy presence, and thou hast taught in our streets.’ But he shall say, I tell you, ‘I know you not whence ye are; depart from me, all ye workers of iniquity.’ There shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth, when ye shall see Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, and all the prophets, in the kingdom of God, and you yourselves thrust out. And they shall come from the east, and from the west, and from the north, and from the south, and shall sit down in the kingdom of God. And, behold, there are last which shall be first, and there are first which shall be last.”

Whose Chair Are You Sitting In

Don C. Harris (AP) — Fri, 19 Apr 2024 15:00:00 -0600

Why do you call me LORD and not do what I say? Remember the Sermon on the Mount - give in secret, pray in private, give to those who cannot repay. We must understand that it was the rejection of the Jews of the authority of Jesus which led to empty seats at the table. Jesus turned to the halt, the blind, the lame - us (the Gentiles). Don't boast against the natural branches. We are less than the guests expected by Jesus.

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71: Jesus is Warned of Herod

Luke 13:31-35

On the same day certain Pharisees came to Jesus, saying:

“Get thee out and depart hence. For Herod will kill thee.”

Jesus answered them, saying:

“Go ye, and tell that fox, ‘Behold, I cast out devils, and I do cures today and tomorrow, and the third day I shall be perfected.’ Nevertheless I must walk today, and tomorrow, and the day following; for it cannot be that a prophet perish out of Jerusalem. O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, which killest the prophets, and stonest them that are sent unto thee; how often would I have gathered thy children together, as a hen doth gather her brood under her wings, and ye would not!

Behold, your house is left unto you desolate; and verily I say unto you, ‘Ye shall not see me, until the time come when ye shall say, “Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord.”’”

***

72: Jesus Teaches At The Table Of A Chief Pharisee

Luke 14:1-24

Jesus Heals A Man With Dropsy

On a Sabbath day Jesus ate in the house of one of the chief Pharisees. He was being watched closely.

A man came before him who was afflicted with dropsy. Jesus spoke to the lawyers and Pharisees, asking:

“Is it lawful to heal on the Sabbath day?”

The lawyers and Pharisees remained silent. Thereupon Jesus healed the man and let him depart. Then he said to the lawyers and Pharisees:

“Which of you shall have an ass or an ox fallen into a pit, and will not straightway pull him out on the Sabbath day?”

And the lawyers and Pharisees were unable to give any answer.

The Parable Of The Wedding Guest

While he was eating at the home of the chief Pharisee, Jesus, who noticed how certain of the guests always pushed themselves into the positions of honor, said to them:

“When thou art bidden of any man to a wedding, sit not down in the highest room: lest a more honorable man than thou be bidden of him; and he that bade thee and him, come and say to thee, ‘Give this man place;’ and thou begin with shame to take the lowest room. But when thou art bidden, go and sit down in the lowest room; that when he that bade thee cometh, he may say unto thee, ‘Friend, go up higher.’ Then shalt thou have worship in the presence of them that sit at meat with thee. For whosoever exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.”

Jesus Instructs The Pharisee

Jesus also said to the Pharisee who had invited him to eat:

“When thou makest a dinner or a supper, call not thy friends, nor thy brethren, neither they kinsmen, nor thy rich neighbors; lest they also bid thee again, and a recompense be made thee. But when thou makest a feast, call the poor, the maimed, the lame, the blind; and thou shalt be blessed; for they cannot recompense thee: for thou shalt be recompensed at the resurrection of thejust.”

The Parable Of The Great Supper

One of the guests said:

“Blessed is he that shall eat bread in the kingdom of God.”

Jesus said to the guest:

“A certain man made a great supper, and bade many; and sent his servant at supper time to say to them that were bidden, ‘Come; for all things are now ready.’ And they all with one consent began to make excuse. The first said unto him, ‘I have bought a piece of ground, and I must needs go and see it. I pray thee have me excused.’ And another said, ‘I have bought five yoke of oxen, and I go to prove them. I pray thee have me excused.’ And another said, ‘I have married a wife, and therefore I cannot come.’ So that servant came, and showed his lord these things. Then the master of the house, being angry, said to his servant, ‘Go out quickly into the streets and lanes of the city, and bring in hither the poor, and the maimed, and the halt, and the blind.’ And the servant said, ‘Lord, it is done as thou has commanded, and yet there is room.’

“And the lord said unto the servant, ‘Go out into the highways and hedges, and compel them to come in, that my house may be filled. For I say unto you that none of those men which were bidden shall taste of my supper.’”

If You Knew You Would Be Better

Don C. Harris (AP) — Fri, 12 Apr 2024 15:00:00 -0600

We must be diligent to see past traditions or political protocols which get in the way of us taking care of people. We protect the seed of Christ planted in us when we care for one another. It is our responsibility to build the character to stand. Alone, if need be. Expect persecution. Endure to the end.

***

69: Jesus Heals A Crippled Woman

Luke 13:10-17

On a Sabbath day Jesus was teaching in a synagogue. In the congregation there was a woman whose back was bent as a bow. For eighteen years she had been deformed.

Jesus saw her and called her to him, saying:

“Woman, thou art loosed from thine infirmity.”

He laid his hands on her and immediately she was made straight, and glorified God.

The ruler of the synagogue was angry that Jesus had healed on the Sabbath day. He said to the people:

“There are six days in which men ought to work. In them therefore come and be healed, and not on the Sabbath day.”

Jesus retorted, saying to the ruler:

“Thou hypocrite, doth not each one of you on the Sabbath loose his ox or his ass from the stall, and lead him away to watering? And ought not this woman, being a daughter of Abraham, whom Satan hath bound, lo, these eighteen years, be loosed from this bond on the Sabbath day?”

When Jesus had finished speaking, all those who had opposed him were ashamed and the people rejoiced for the glorious things he had done.

Good And Bad Things Happen To Everyone

Don C. Harris (AP) — Fri, 05 Apr 2024 15:00:00 -0600

Give thanks in all things. God is not our enemy (or our valet). As children, students or disciples we understand that problems are the path to perfection. Jesus said eternal life can be obtained by obedience to the law. Take a longer view of outcomes. Circumstances of life provide the opportunity for our growth. to work with "works of God to be made manifest" God is not our enemy.

Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy. If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified. But let none of you suffer as a murderer, or as a thief, or as an evildoer, or as a busybody in other men's matters.

Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf. For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God? . . . Wherefore let them that suffer according to the will of God commit the keeping of their souls to him in well doing, as unto a faithful Creator. 1 Peter 4

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68: Jesus Teaches Concerning Repentance

Luke 13:1-9

All Men Are Sinners

Some of the crowd told Jesus of the Galileans who had been killed by Pilate and whose blood had been mingled with their sacrifices. Jesus said:

“Suppose ye that these Galileans were sinners above all the Galileans, because they suffered such things? I tell you, ‘Nay,’ but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish. Or those eighteen, upon whom the tower in Siloam fell, and slew them, think ye that they were sinners above all men that dwelt in Jerusalem? I tell you, ‘Nay,’ but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish.”

Parable Of A Barren Fig Tree

Then Jesus told those who were with him this parable:

“A certain man had a fig tree planted in his vineyard; and he came and sought fruit thereon, and found none. 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?’ And he answering said unto him, ‘Lord, let it alone this year also, till I shall dig about it, and dung it. And if it bear fruit, well; and if not, then after that thou shalt cut it down.”

All Men Have Sinned

Don C. Harris (AP) — Fri, 29 Mar 2024 15:00:00 -0600

When we repent we make changes in our life. If no change occurs, we remain in our sin. We are not condemned because of Adam. We will be judged based on what we do; not what we believe. What we believe will determine our actions. Sin is a transgression against the law. Jesus says, "Go and sin no more." There is a protocol required for relationship with God. We must love God and love our neighbor enough to keep the 10 commandments. The commandments are our guard rails.

When we keep the commandments we will be led by the Spirit of God. When you obey your conscience it gets louder. Jesus will teach us HIS ways - from the inside.

Listen.

***

68: Jesus Teaches Concerning Repentance

Luke 13:1-9

All Men Are Sinners

Some of the crowd told Jesus of the Galileans who had been killed by Pilate and whose blood had been mingled with their sacrifices. Jesus said:

Parable Of A Barren Fig Tree

Then Jesus told those who were with him this parable:

Watch

Don C. Harris (AP) — Fri, 22 Mar 2024 15:00:00 -0600

Seek Ye the Kingdom: People led of the Spirit will know the Times

Time is short. Believe God is a Holy and Righteous Judge. He is. Stay busy doing right-ness. The day of the end is not going to be easy - fire, division, trouble. Hold fast your profession of faith without wavering; exhorting one another. We will recognize things on the way; signs, weather - you know what is right and wrong - DO RIGHT! We will give an account of how we handled our responsibilities.

"Why not judge ye of yourself what is right?"

***

67: Jesus Speaks Of God’s Care

Luke 12:12-59

Seek Ye The Kingdom

After Jesus had related the parable about the rich man, he spoke to his disciples, saying:

“Therefore I say unto you, ‘Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat; neither for the body, what ye shall put on.’ The life is more than meat, and the body is more than raiment. Consider the ravens, for they neither sow nor reap – which neither have storehouse nor barn; and God feedeth them. How much more are ye better than the fowls? And which of you with taking thought can add to his stature one cubit? If ye then be not able to do that thing which is least, why take ye thought for the rest? Consider the lilies how they grow; they toil not, they spin not; and yet I say unto you, that Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. If then God so clothe the grass, which is today in the field, and tomorrow is cast into the oven; how much more will he clothe you, O ye of little faith? And seek not ye what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink, neither be ye of doubtful mind. For all these things do the nations of the world seek after, and your Father knoweth that ye have need of these things.

“But rather seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you. Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good please to give you the kingdom.

Sell that ye have, and give alms; provide yourselves bags which wax not old, a treasure in the Heavens that faileth not, where no thief approacheth, neither moth corrupteth. For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.

The Faithful Steward

“Let your loins be girded about, and your lights burning; 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. 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 sit down to meat, and will come forth and serve them. And if he shall come in the second watch, or come in the third watch, and find them so, blessed are those servants. And this I 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. Be ye therefore ready also. For the Son of man cometh at an hour when ye think not.”

Then Peter said to Jesus:

“Lord, speakest thou this parable unto us, or even to all?”

Jesus replied:

“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 manservants 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.”

To Be A Faithful Follower Is Not Easy

Jesus continued speaking to his disciples, saying:

“I am come to send fire on the earth; and what will I, if it be already kindled? But I have a baptism to be baptized with; and how am I straitened till it be accomplished! Suppose ye that I am come to give peace on earth? I tell you, ‘Nay; but rather division.” For from henceforth there shall be five in one house divided, three against two, and two against three. The father shall be divided against the son, and the son against the father; the mother against the daughter, and the daughter against the mother; the mother-in-law against her daughter-in-law, and the daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law.”

People Unable To Read The Times

Jesus turned to the people and addressed them, saying:

“When ye see a cloud rise out of the west, straightway ye say, There cometh a shower’; and so it is. And when ye see the south wind blow, ye say, ‘There will be heat’; and it cometh to pass. Ye hypocrites, ye can discern the face of the sky and of the earth; but how is it that ye do not discern this time? Yea, and why even of yourselves judge ye not what is right?

“When thou goest with thine adversary [Jesus] to the magistrate [Jesus], as thou art on the way, give diligence that thou mayest be delivered from him; lest he hale thee to the judge, and the judge deliver thee to the officer, and the officer cast thee into prison. I tell thee, thou shalt not depart thence, till thou has paid the very last mite.”

Forgiveness,

To Be a Faithful Follower is Not Easy

Don C. Harris (AP) — Fri, 15 Mar 2024 15:00:00 -0600

A good steward is mindful of being held accountable for our responsibilities.

“Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able.” Luke 13

***

67: Jesus Speaks Of God’s Care

Luke 12:12-59

Seek Ye The Kingdom

After Jesus had related the parable about the rich man, he spoke to his disciples, saying: . . .

To Be A Faithful Follower Is Not Easy

Jesus continued speaking to his disciples, saying:

People Unable To Read The Times

Jesus turned to the people and addressed them, saying:

“When ye see a cloud rise out of the west, straightway ye say, There cometh a shower’; and so it is. And when ye see the south wind blow, ye say, ‘There will be heat’; and it cometh to pass. Ye hypocrites, ye can discern the face of the sky and of the earth; but how is it that ye do not discern this time? Yea, and why even of yourselves judge ye not what is right?

“When thou goest with thine adversary to the magistrate, as thou art on the way, give diligence that thou mayest be delivered from him; lest he hale thee to the judge, and the judge deliver thee to the officer, and the officer cast thee into prison. I tell thee, thou shalt not depart thence, till thou has paid the very last mite.”

How Do We Plan to Thank God

Don C. Harris (AP) — Fri, 08 Mar 2024 15:00:00 -0600

We live in uncertain times. We endeavor to save or acquire enough to protect ourselves from any loss or discomfort. How much is enough? Bigger barns? More investments? These are short-sited arrangements, coins in a pocket with holes, if you will. There is a way to get God involved in your finances. Pay your tithes; ten percent for God, ten percent for keeping the feasts (vacay); and 3% for you the poor or needy neighbor. Consider the compassion and desire of the Lord to be involved in our daily provision and care:

"Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the LORD of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it. And I will rebuke the devourer for your sakes, and he shall not destroy the fruits of your ground; neither shall your vine cast her fruit before the time in the field, saith the LORD of hosts." Malachi 3

“For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again.” Matthew 7:2

***

67: Jesus Speaks Of God’s Care

Luke 12:12-59

Seek Ye The Kingdom

After Jesus had related the parable about the rich man, he spoke to his disciples, saying:

“But rather seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you. Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good please to give you the kingdom.

The Faithful Steward

Then Peter said to Jesus:

“Lord, speakest thou this parable unto us, or even to all?”

Jesus replied:

To Be A Faithful Follower Is Not Easy

Jesus continued speaking to his disciples, saying:

People Unable To Read The Times

Jesus turned to the people and addressed them, saying:

“When ye see a cloud rise out of the west, straightway ye say, There cometh a shower’; and so it is. And when ye see the south wind blow, ye say, ‘There will be heat’; and it cometh to pass. Ye hypocrites, ye can discern the face of the sky and of the earth; but how is it that ye do not discern this time? Yea, and why even of yourselves judge ye not what is right?

Jesus Expects Us to Think

Don C. Harris (AP) — Fri, 01 Mar 2024 15:00:00 -0600

It is the propensity of man to shift responsibility; to look to experts or professionals to relieve the pressure of thinking, of deciding and of acting; a type of child (or slave) mentality. It is true, we begin our walk in Christianity as servants; however, there is more for those who would be heirs. God desires a "living sacrifice." Daily we deny-ourselves. Daily we take-up-our-cross. Daily we seek a Word from God. Daily we obey Jesus when He says, "Follow-me".

***

66: Jesus Warns Against Covetousness

Luke 12:13-21

After Jesus had given his warnings regarding hypocrisy, one of those present said to him:

“Master, speak to my brother, that he divide the inheritance with me.”

Jesus replied:

“Man, who made me a judge or divider over you?”

He continued:

“Take heed, and beware of covetousness. For a man’s life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth.”

Then Jesus told a parable of a rich man to the multitude, saying:

“The ground of a certain rich man was brought forth plentifully. And he thought within himself, saying, ‘What shall I do, because I have no room where to bestow my fruits?’ 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. 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.”’ 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?’ So is he that layeth up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God.”

Honesty and Bravery Are Required of Christians

Don C. Harris — Fri, 23 Feb 2024 15:00:00 -0600

The way to salvation is described as a narrow path. There is no room for crowds maintained by hypocrisy (acting) or compromise. A purposeful stand regardless of "what others think" will bring persecution and pressure. We must square our shoulders and resist the temptation to change our position to "get along" or to "belong" to the crowd. It is denial of Christ that we must fear. There will be difficulty for sure, but when you stand with Christ - you do not stand alone. Be strong.

***

65: Jesus Warns His Disciples Against Hypocrisy

Luke 12:1-12

When a great multitude of people gathered around him, standing so thick that they trod upon one another’s feet, Jesus began to speak, saying:

“Beware ye of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy. For there is nothing covered, that shall not be revealed; neither hid, that shall not be known. Therefore whatsoever ye have spoken in darkness shall be heard in the light; and that which ye have spoken in the ear in closets shall be proclaimed upon the housetops. And I say unto you my friends, ‘Be not afraid of them that kill the body, and after that have no more that they can do.’ But I will forewarn you whom ye shall fear. Fear him, which after he hath killed hath power to cast into hell; yea, I say unto you, ‘Fear him.’ Are not five sparrows sold for two farthings, and not one of them is forgotten before God? But even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not therefore. Ye are of more value than many sparrows. Also I say unto you, ‘Whosoever shall confess me before men, him shall the Son of man also confess before the angels of God. But he that denieth me before men shall be denied before the angels of God.’ And whosoever shall speak a word against the Son of man, it shall be forgiven him; but unto him that blasphemest against the Holy Ghost it shall not be forgiven. And when they bring you unto the synagogues, and unto magistrates, and powers, take ye no thought how or what thing ye shall answer, or what ye shall say. For the Holy Ghost shall teach you in the same hour what ye ought to say.”

The Key of Knowledge

Don C. Harris — Fri, 16 Feb 2024 15:00:00 -0600

The commandments bring life, order and communication with God. It is important work. However, the traditions making the law more difficult creates barriers and voids the benefits of keeping the law. Past consequences of commandment disobedience (i.e. 70 years of slavery for violations of the Sabbath) motivated religious leaders to set boundaries (fences) around the law with the intent of protecting the law. These fences made the law grievous and difficult to obey. Over time these fences became a favored source of authority, as people were required to continually consult religious leaders regarding every-day life. Jesus corrects the practice of the leadership and further expounds on the "weightier matters" of the law. Jesus said, "These things ye ought to have done" and "not avoid the weightier matters..."

***

64: Jesus Rebukes The Pharisees, Scribes, and Lawyers

Luke 11:37-54

A Pharisee invited Jesus to come to his house to eat. Jesus entered and sat down to the food spread before him. The host was surprised that Jesus began to eat without washing before dinner.

Perceiving his thoughts, Jesus said to him:

“Now do ye Pharisees make clean the outside of the cup and the platter; but your inward part is full of ravening and wickedness. Ye fools, did not he that made that which is without make that which is within also? But rather give alms of such things as ye have; and, behold, all things are clean unto you. But woe unto you, Pharisees! For ye tithe mint and rue and all manner of herbs, and pass over judgment and the love of God. These ought ye to have done, and not leave the other undone. Woe unto you, Pharisees! For ye love the uppermost seats in the synagogues, and greetings in the markets. Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For ye are as graves which appear not, and the men that walk over them are not aware of them.”

Then a lawyer who was present said to Jesus:

“Thus saying thou reproachest us also.”

Jesus replied:

“Woe unto you also, ye lawyers! For ye lade men with burdens grievous to be borne, and ye yourselves touch not the burdens with one of your fingers. Woe unto you! For ye build the sepulchers of the prophets, and your fathers killed them. Truly ye bear witness that ye allow the deeds of your fathers; for they indeed killed them, and ye build their sepulchers. Therefore also said the wisdom of God, ‘I will send them prophets and apostles, and some of them they shall slay and persecute’ – that the blood of all the prophets, which was shed from the foundation of the world, may be required of this generation; from the blood of Abel unto the blood of Zacharias, which perished between the altar and the temple. Verily I say unto you, ‘It shall be required of this generation.’

Woe unto you, lawyers! For ye have taken away the key of knowledge. Ye entered not in yourselves, and them that were entering in ye hindered.”

God Empowers Us To Do His Will For Others

Don C. Harris — Fri, 09 Feb 2024 15:00:00 -0600

Enthusiasm to recruit believers has lead to short-sighted evangelistic techniques which result in false doctrines and misunderstandings of the gospel. There is consistent truth in the instruction of Jesus. Jesus continually prods and pushes His disciples to see Kingdom things. Jesus looks for us to imitate Him; to quickly care for those in our sphere of influence. In order that it may be, "Thy will be done in earth..." Just do it. Just do God's will. He tells us what it is. Then, the will of God shall be done - in the earth.

***

63: Jesus Discusses Prayer

Luke 11:1-13

Once, when Jesus had been praying, one of his disciples said to him:

“Lord, teach us to pray, as John also taught his disciples.”

Jesus replied:

“When ye pray, say:

‘Our Father which art in Heaven, hallowed be thy name.

Thy Kingdom come.

Thy will be done, as in Heaven, so in earth.

Give us this day our daily bread.

And forgive us our sins;

For we also forgive everyone that is indebted to us.

And lead us not into temptation;

But deliver us from evil.’”

Then Jesus told this story to his disciples, saying:

“Which of you shall have a friend, and shall go unto him at midnight, and say unto him, ‘Friend, lend me three loaves. For a friend of mine in his journey is come to me, and I have nothing to set before him’? 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.’ 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.’ 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.’ For everyone that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened. If a son shall ask bread of any of you that is a father, will he give him a stone? Or if he asks a fish, will he for a fish give him a serpent? Or if he shall ask an egg, will he offer him a scorpion? If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him?”

Teach Us To Pray Effectively

Don C. Harris — Fri, 02 Feb 2024 15:00:00 -0600

In our day prayer is cheap. Can we click to forward a prayer request from the internet to the throne of God? Does a prayer wheel get the job done? Can we hire the righteous to make prayers vicariously? Does a recorded prayer work? Is there a number of repetitions required (like votes) to get the attention of God?

We have been taught God is always listening, He will grant our every desire (no limits like with Aladdin), and "all we have to do is believe." Friends, this is not true. Nothing adds to the rolls of atheism like unanswered prayer requests.

The disciples noticed something different about Jesus' prayers. First, they never heard Jesus say, "Father would you just . . ." Secondly, the prayers of Jesus were effective and obedient.

A servant, a son, does not petition without obtaining instruction, i.e. the will of God. In many cases, however, it is our will; not God's that is sought. Which leads to exactly the result described in the Scriptures - you ask and receive not because you ask amiss, that you may consume it upon your lusts.

There must be a better way. Jesus teach us to pray.

***

63: Jesus Discusses Prayer

Luke 11:1-13

Once, when Jesus had been praying, one of his disciples said to him:

“Lord, teach us to pray, as John also taught his disciples.”

Jesus replied:

“When ye pray, say:

‘Our Father which art in Heaven, hallowed be thy name.

Thy Kingdom come.

Thy will be done, as in Heaven, so in earth.

Give us this day our daily bread.

And forgive us our sins;

For we also forgive everyone that is indebted to us.

And lead us not into temptation;

But deliver us from evil.’”

Then Jesus told this story to his disciples, saying:

Programmed A.I. or Free Will

Don C. Harris — Fri, 26 Jan 2024 15:00:00 -0600

What God wants is almost irrelevant because of man's will. The Bible is full of broken Scriptures. So much is in our control. We do what we want to do, which may or may not be God's will. God does not intervene because of our prayers. We are allowed (and required) to partner with God to affect outcomes in this life. Christians are "more-than" when we develop our relationship with God; not because we say it, but, because we obey. We are afraid of the consequences of being sold out to the Word of God in our ear.

***

62: Jesus Is Attacked In Jerusalem

John 10:22-39

Jesus was in Jerusalem for the Feast of the Dedication, which occurred in the winter time. While he walked on Solomon’s Porch, a part of the temple, the Jews came around him and said:

“How long dost thou make us doubt? If thou be the Christ, tell us plainly.”

Jesus answered them saying:

“I told you, and ye believe not. The works that I do in my Father’s name, they bear witness of me. But ye believe not, because ye are not of my sheep, as I said unto you. My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me. And I give them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand. My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father’s hand. I and my Father are one.”

Those around him picked up stones to hurl at Jesus, who said:

“Many good works have I showed you from my Father; for which of those works do ye stone me?”

They answered Jesus:

“For a good work we stone thee not; but for blasphemy; and because that thou, being a man, makest thyself God.”

Jesus replied to them:

“Is it not written in your law, ’I said, “Ye are gods”’? If he called them gods, unto whom the word of God came, and the scripture cannot be broken, say ye of him, who the Father hath sanctified, and sent into the world, ‘Thou blasphemest’; because I said, ‘I am the Son of God?’ If I do not the works of my Father, believe me not. But if I do, though ye believe not me, believe the works; that ye may know, and believe, that the Father is in me, and I in him.”

Thereupon the authorities sought to arrest Jesus, but he eluded them.

Jesus Attacked

Don C. Harris — Fri, 19 Jan 2024 15:00:00 -0600

Our inherited traditions hamper our ability to hear Jesus. There are gods many. Modern thought uses the "god of the gap" theory as a precursor to scientific understanding, forcing a contrived choice of belief in god or science. In this chapter, the religious leaders allowed their expectations and traditions as justification to disregard the works of Jesus.

“Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come.” John 16:13 (KJV)

“But unto the Son he saith, Thy throne, O God, is for ever and ever: a sceptre of righteousness is the sceptre of thy kingdom.” Hebrews 1:9 (KJV)

***

62: Jesus Is Attacked In Jerusalem

John 10:22-39

Jesus was in Jerusalem for the Feast of the Dedication, which occurred in the winter time. While he walked on Solomon’s Porch, a part of the temple, the Jews came around him and said:

“How long dost thou make us doubt? If thou be the Christ, tell us plainly.”

Jesus answered them saying:

Those around him picked up stones to hurl at Jesus, who said:

“Many good works have I showed you from my Father; for which of those works do ye stone me?”

They answered Jesus:

“For a good work we stone thee not; but for blasphemy; and because that thou, being a man, makest thyself God.”

Jesus replied to them:

“Is it not written in your law, ’I said, “Ye are gods”’? If he called them gods, unto whom the word of God came, and the scripture cannot be broken, say ye of him, who the Father hath sanctified, and sent into the world, ‘Thou blasphemest’; because I said, ‘I am the Son of God?’ If I do not the works of my Father, believe me not. But if I do, though ye believe not me, believe the works; that ye may know, and believe, that the Father is in me, and I in him.”

Thereupon the authorities sought to arrest Jesus, but he eluded them.

Jesus Our Good Shepherd

Don C. Harris — Fri, 12 Jan 2024 15:00:00 -0600

Mark 4:19

“And the cares of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, and the lusts of other things entering in, choke the word, and it becometh unfruitful.”

Traditions, protocol and bad theology lulls the modern Christian into a sense of false security. Examine the Words of Jesus and compare His ways to the ways we have sought out for comfort or convenience. This work is difficult. Examine your thoughts. Where did the concern come from? Make changes as you go.

Hirelings prevent sheep from getting to the Lord Jesus. Beware of finding or being "Another Christ", the preacher has one job. Bring the sheep to the Shepherd.

***

61: Jesus Tells The Parable Of The Good Shepherd

John 10:1-21

Jesus continued speaking and 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.”

The listeners did not understand the meaning of what Jesus said. He continued:

“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 a 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 a 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 I know 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.”

The words of Jesus again caused a difference of opinion among the people. Many of them said:

“He hath a devil, and is mad. Why hear ye him?”

Others said:

“There are not the words of him that hath a devil. Can a devil open the eyes of the blind?”

Do You Believe In The Son of God

Don C. Harris — Fri, 05 Jan 2024 15:00:00 -0600

The joy of an eye-opening miracle creates immediate awe and attention. The clamor almost overshadowing the life-changing experience itself. How could a man born-blind have sight? Fake news pundits were decrying the event and even the identity of the healed man.

"Think not that I came to bring peace..." said Jesus. A choice is mandated of those who receive a visitation by God, the receiver of the gift and of the watchers.

Every act of obedience to the Father by Jesus declared, "It's not like you think." Quite a challenge to those who are professionals in "God's business". Established circumstances, regulations, and protocol dictates who is and is not eligible to receive from God.

***

60: Jesus Heals The Man Born Blind

John 9:1-41

As Jesus walked along on a Sabbath he saw a man who had been born blind from birth.

Jesus’ disciples said to him:

“Master, who did sin, this man, or his parents, that he was born blind?”

Jesus answered them, saying:

“Neither hath this man sinned, nor his parents; but that the works of God should be made manifest in him. I must work the works of him that sent me, while it is day. The night cometh, when no man can work. As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world.”

As soon as he had finished speaking, Jesus spat on the ground, made a soft mass of clay with the spittle, and placed it, as an ointment, on the eyes of the blind man.

Then he said to the man:

“Go, wash in the pool of Siloam.”

The blind man went to the pool, and when he had washed his eyes he could see.

Acquaintances who saw him said:

“Is this not he that sat and begged?”

Some said:

“This is he.”

Others said:

“He is like him.”

The man who had been blind said:

“I am he.”

Thereupon he was asked:

“How were thine eyes opened?”

He replied:

“A man that is called Jesus made clay, and anointed mine eyes, and said unto me, ‘Go to the pool of Siloam, and wash.’ And I went and washed, and I received sight.”

The man was asked:

“Where is he?”

He answered:

“I know not.”

The people who had questioned him took the man who had been blind to the Pharisees.

When the Pharisees asked him how he had received sight, he replied:

“He put clay upon mine eyes, and I washed, and do see.”

Some of the Pharisees, speaking of Jesus, said:

“This is not a man of God, because he keepeth not the Sabbath day.”

Others said of Jesus:

“How can a man that is a sinner do such miracles?”

There was a division of opinion among them.

Then the Pharisees asked again of the man who had been blind:

“What sayest thou of him, he that opened thine eyes?”

The man replied:

“He is a prophet.”

Some Jews doubted the statements of the man that he had been blind, and had been cured. So they called the man’s parents before them. They asked the parents:

“Is this your son, who ye say was born blind? How then doth he now see?”

The parents answered:

“We know that this is our son, and that he was born blind. But what means he now seeth, we know not. Or who hath opened his eyes, we know not. He is of age. Ask him. He shall speak for himself.”

The parents spoke these words because they were afraid of the authorities; for an agreement had been reached by the leaders that any man who thought Jesus was Christ should be driven from the synagogue.

Accordingly the man’s parents said:

“He is of age. Ask him.”

Again the Pharisees turned to the man who had been blind, saying to him:

“Give God the praise. We know that this man is a sinner.”

The man who had been healed replied:

“Whether he be a sinner or not, I know not. One thing I know; that, whereas I was blind, now I see.”

Then the Pharisees asked him again:

“What did he to thee? How opened he thine eyes?”

The man replied:

“I have told you already, and ye did not hear. Wherefore would ye hear it again? Will ye also be his disciples?”

Then the Pharisees reviled the man, saying:

“Thou art his disciple, but we are Moses’ disciples. We know that God spake unto Moses. As for this fellow, we know not from whence he is.”

The man answered, saying to the Pharisees:

“Why herein is a marvelous thing, that ye know not from whence he is, and yet he hath opened mine eyes. Now we know that God heareth not sinners. But if any man be a worshiper of God, and doeth his will, him he heareth. Since the world began was it not heard that any man opened the eyes of one that was born blind. If this man were not of God, he could do nothing.”

The Pharisees answered:

“Thou wast altogether born in sins, and dost thou teach us?”

The man was ordered to leave. Jesus heard of this, found the man he had healed, and said to him:

“Dost thou believe on the Son of God?”

The man replied:

“Who is he, Lord, that I might believe on him?”

Jesus answered:

“Thou hast both seen him, and it is he that talketh with thee.”

The man revered Jesus and said:

“Lord, I believe.”

Jesus said to him:

“For judgment I am come into this world, that they which see not might see; and that they which see might be made blind.”

Some Pharisees, who heard the conversation between Jesus and the man, asked Jesus:

“Are we blind also?”

Jesus replied “If ye were blind, ye should have no sin. But now ye say, ‘We see’; therefore your sin remaineth.”

Life is More Than Fair

Don C. Harris — Fri, 29 Dec 2023 15:00:00 -0600

We don't know what is good. Circumstances judged on an emotional level will throw us off track. Trust God the Father to know the circumstance we need to become a mature child of God. There is striving, endurance and overcoming to secure a relationship with God. We are admonished to "grow-up in Christ" by becoming a servant. "Know ye what I have done to you?" Jesus asked the disciples. He washed their feet. He served. He humbled himself. He led.

We minister to the LORD in physical ways, picking up garbage, cleaning, feeding the hungry; "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."

Present your body as a living sacrifice; holy and acceptable to the Lord.

John 4:23

“But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him.”

***

59: Jesus In The Home Of Mary And Martha

Luke 10:38-42

Jesus In The Home Of Mary And Martha

When he came to the village of Bethany, Jesus rested in the house of a woman named Martha. Martha had a sister, Mary, who sat at the feet of Jesus and listened to his words.

Martha, who was very busy taking care of the house and serving, went to Jesus and said:

“Lord, dost thou not care that my sister hath left me to serve alone? Bid her therefore that she help me.”

Jesus answered Martha, saying:

“Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things. But one thing is needful; and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her.”

My Money My Neighbor My Sorrow

Don C. Harris — Fri, 22 Dec 2023 15:00:00 -0600

Do you know this Parable? Jesus said one parable is the key to understanding ALL parables. A prerequisite understanding if you will. Do you know which parable he referenced? If not, go to your Bible and find it right away. Even with Jesus the Son of God, in physical form on the earth, there was an enemy and a communication barrier that required stealth implementation. There are hints of this in the Gospels. Also, remember Paul's words in 1 Cor. 2:7-8 "But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory: Which none of the princes of this world knew: for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory."

A DVD titled, "The Parable Paradox" is available online free to all at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qnueHpgtz6g/ Or you may request your free copy of "The Parable Paradox" DVD via email from info@thinkredink.com.

***

58: The Parable Of The Good Samaritan

Luke 10:25-37

The Parable Of The Good Samaritan

A Lawyer asked Jesus:

“Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?”

Jesus answered with a question, saying:

“What is written in the law? How readest thou?”

The lawyer replied:

“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 neighbor as thyself.”

Jesus said to the lawyer:

“Thou hast answered right. This do, and thou shalt live.”

Then the lawyer asked:

“Who is my neighbor?”

Jesus answered with a parable, saying:

“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. And by chance there came down a certain priest that way; and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. And likewise a Levite, when he was at the place, came and looked on him, and passed by on the other side. But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was; and when he saw him, he had compassion on him, 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. 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.’ Which now of these three, thinkest thou, was neighbor unto him that fell among the thieves?”

The lawyer replied to Jesus:

“He that showed mercy on him.”

Jesus replied:

"Go, and do thou likewise."

What Must I Do To Obtain Eternal Life

Don C. Harris — Fri, 15 Dec 2023 15:00:00 -0600

"What must I do [for eternal life]?"

How readest thou?"

Jesus answers the question like no modern preachers or evangelists.

"Keep the commandments."

"…this do and thou shalt live…" Jesus said.

If we could keep the two commandments 1) Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul and strength; and 2) Love your neighbor as yourself; there would have been no reason for JESUS to come. The ten commandments are a gift to us for the purpose of regeneration. We can keep the ten commandments. This prerequisite allows the indwelling of the Spirit of God for internal guidance. Going God's way opens the door to acquire the power to become Sons of God. This grace is not a free gift. We must lay down our life and follow Jesus - to the end.

***

58: The Parable Of The Good Samaritan

Luke 10:25-37

The Parable Of The Good Samaritan

A Lawyer asked Jesus:

“Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?”

Jesus answered with a question, saying:

“What is written in the law? How readest thou?”

The lawyer replied:

“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 neighbor as thyself.”

Jesus said to the lawyer:

“Thou hast answered right. This do, and thou shalt live.”

Then the lawyer asked:

“Who is my neighbor?”

Jesus answered with a parable, saying:

The lawyer replied to Jesus:

“He that showed mercy on him.”

Jesus replied:

"Go, and do thou likewise."

Seeing The Kingdom Of God

Don C. Harris — Fri, 08 Dec 2023 15:00:00 -0600

Jesus instructs the disciples in a way that is counterintuitive to the physical world. Ambition is not encouraged. Selfishness is put-down. They are told to accept what is given with humility, not pursuing wealth, so your gospel is not perverted. A laborer is worthy of hire - a place to sleep, something to eat. The disciples were provided for by God not by manipulation or contrivance or pressure or compulsion or marketing. The demand on the disciples was to learn to be content. The miracles of healing and deliverance were exciting, but they were not the greatest miracle being made manifest.

***

57: The Mission And Success Of The Seventy Disciples Of Jesus

Luke 10:1-24

JESUS APPOINTED seventy disciples in addition to the twelve. He sent them before him, two by two, into every city and place through which he would pass.

When they were gathered around him, he sent them forth with these instructions:

“The harvest is truly great, but the laborers are few. Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he would send forth laborers into his harvest. Go your ways. Behold, I send you forth as lambs among wolves. Carry neither purse, nor scrip, nor shoes, and salute no man by the way. And into whatsoever house ye enter, first say, ‘Peace be to this house.’ And if the son of peace be there, your peace shall rest upon it; if not, it shall turn to you again. And in the same house remain, eating and drinking such things as they give; for the laborer is worthy of his hire. Go not from house to house. And into whatsoever city ye enter, and they receive you, eat such things as are set before you. And heal the sick that are therein, and say unto them, ‘The kingdom of God is come nigh unto you.’ But into whatsoever city ye enter, and they receive you not, go your ways out into the streets of the same and say, ‘Even the very dust of your city, which cleaveth on us, we do wipe off against you.’ Notwithstanding be ye sure of this, that the kingdom of God is come nigh unto you. But I say unto you, that it shall be more tolerable that day for Sodom, than for that city. Woe unto thee, Chorazin! Woe unto thee, Bethsaida! For if the mighty works had been done in Tyre and Sidon, which have been done in you, they had a great while ago repented, sitting in sackcloth and ashes. But it shall be more tolerable for Tyre and Sidon at the judgment, than for you. And thou, Capernaum, which art exalted to Heaven, shalt be thrust down to hell. He that heareth you heareth me; and he that despiseth you despiseth me; and he that despiseth me despiseth him that sent me.”

When the seventy were with Jesus again, they were much elated and said to him:

“Lord, even the devils are subject unto us through thy name.”

Jesus answered them, saying:

“I beheld Satan as lightning fall from Heaven. Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy; and nothing shall by any means hurt you. Notwithstanding, in this rejoice not, that the spirits are subject unto you; but rather rejoice, because your names are written in Heaven.”

In that hour Jesus rejoiced and prayed to his Father, saying:

“I thank thee, O Father, Lord of Heaven and earth, that thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes; even so, Father; for so it seemed good in thy sight. All things are delivered to me of my Father; and no man knoweth who the Son is, but the Father; and who the Father is, but the Son, and he to whom the Son will reveal him.”

Then he turned again to his disciples and said to them:

“Blessed are the eyes which see the things that ye see. For I tell you, that many prophets and kings have desired to see those things which ye see, and have not seen them; and to hear those things which ye hear, and have not heard them.”

Come To Christ Bankrupt

Don C. Harris — Fri, 01 Dec 2023 15:00:00 -0600

"If it sounds too good to be true, it's probably not true."

Consider the premise, "Salvation is free." While it is true salvation cannot be obtained without the gift of faith and the sacrifice of Jesus; it is also true that Christianity is costly. To gain new life, we must lay down our old life. We must submit to the commandments, to the authority of the Spirit of God, and to Jesus Christ of Nazareth as our ONE teacher. The path of redemption is narrow. This fight, this faith, this race, presents all the challenges one would expect when searching for a new life, as eternal goal, a God worthy of worship and honor. Worship not in words, but in humility and action. It is recognized as obedience.

***

57: The Mission And Success Of The Seventy Disciples Of Jesus

Luke 10:1-24

JESUS APPOINTED seventy disciples in addition to the twelve. He sent them before him, two by two, into every city and place through which he would pass.

When they were gathered around him, he sent them forth with these instructions:

When the seventy were with Jesus again, they were much elated and said to him:

“Lord, even the devils are subject unto us through thy name.”

Jesus answered them, saying:

In that hour Jesus rejoiced and prayed to his Father, saying:

Then he turned again to his disciples and said to them:

All Must Be Forsaken

Don C. Harris — Fri, 24 Nov 2023 15:00:00 -0600

We attempt to negotiate our obedience to God to minimize our sacrifice. We are required to deny ourselves, to commit to our death for our faith, and to imitate Jesus. Jesus did not offer prosperity to people who came to Him. Hold everything we own in an open hand. Jesus came to teach us to be acceptable to him. He did not come for us to accept Him. Kingdom philosophy is opposite many religious doctrines - expect it. We cannot enter the Kingdom of God with this world attached to us. The gate is narrow.

***

55: Jesus Rebukes James’ And John’s Desire To Misuse Spiritual Power

Luke 9:51-56

AS JESUS was making his way toward Jerusalem, he sent messengers before him. They entered a village of Samaria to make ready for Jesus’ passing through that place.

The Samaritans would not receive Jesus because he was going toward Jerusalem. Two of his disciples, James and John, became very angry over this and said:

“Lord, wilt thou that we command fire to come down from Heaven, and consume them, even as Elijah did?”

But Jesus turned and rebuked them, saying:

“Ye know not what manner of spirit ye are of. For the son of man is not come to destroy men’s lives, but to save them.”

So they went to another village.

***

56: Jesus Teaches That All Else Must Be Forsaken

Matthew 8:19-22; Luke 9:57-62

A MAN came to Jesus and said:

“Lord, I will follow thee whithersoever thou goest.”

Jesus replied:

“Foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man hath not where to lay his head.”

Jesus spoke to another man, saying:

“Follow me.”

The man said:

“Lord, suffer me to first go and bury my father.”

Jesus said to him:

“Let the dead bury their dead. But go thou and preach the kingdom of God.”

Another man said to Jesus:

“Lord, I will follow thee. But let me first go bid them farewell which are at home at my house.”

To him Jesus said:

“No man, having put his hand to the plow, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.”

Do Not Abuse Spiritual Power

Don C. Harris — Fri, 17 Nov 2023 15:00:00 -0600

"We do not know what Spirit we are of." The disciples and the religious leaders misunderstood God. The practice of the day was to use religion selfishly to obtain materialistic goals. Jesus came to reveal the Kingdom of God. Jesus came to clarify the way to please God. The Scriptures record multiple instances where God said, "I am not like you." God said, "I desire mercy and not sacrifice." The process of understanding, of becoming born from above, of following Jesus in Spirit and Truth takes diligence and time. Practice taking a longer view of life. People are watching. Be consistent. Be loving. Be obedient.

***

55: Jesus Rebukes James’ And John’s Desire To Misuse Spiritual Power

Luke 9:51-56

AS JESUS was making his way toward Jerusalem, he sent messengers before him. They entered a village of Samaria to make ready for Jesus’ passing through that place.

The Samaritans would not receive Jesus because he was going toward Jerusalem. Two of his disciples, James and John, became very angry over this and said:

“Lord, wilt thou that we command fire to come down from Heaven, and consume them, even as Elijah did?”

But Jesus turned and rebuked them, saying:

“Ye know not what manner of spirit ye are of. For the son of man is not come to destroy men’s lives, but to save them.”

So they went to another village.

Jesus Came To Show Mercy

Don C. Harris — Fri, 10 Nov 2023 15:00:00 -0600

“For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through [Jesus] might be saved. He that believeth on [Jesus] 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.” John 3:17-18

Changes! No more bloodline salvation; whosoever will (not whosoever wants). There are requirements for salvation. Deny yourself, die (take up your cross), and follow me. Jesus is a stranger to His church. Salvation not one and done; we need to change. When we move from mercy we "don't know what Spirit we are of". It is helpful to remember the 'pit' from whence you came.

***

55: Jesus Rebukes James’ And John’s Desire To Misuse Spiritual Power

Luke 9:51-56

AS JESUS was making his way toward Jerusalem, he sent messengers before him. They entered a village of Samaria to make ready for Jesus’ passing through that place.

The Samaritans would not receive Jesus because he was going toward Jerusalem. Two of his disciples, James and John, became very angry over this and said:

“Lord, wilt thou that we command fire to come down from Heaven, and consume them, even as Elijah did?”

But Jesus turned and rebuked them, saying:

“Ye know not what manner of spirit ye are of. For the son of man is not come to destroy men’s lives, but to save them.”

So they went to another village.

The Last Enemy Is Death But Life Doesn't Have To End In Destruction

Don C. Harris — Fri, 03 Nov 2023 15:00:00 -0600

Jesus' simple instruction for us, "Keep the commandments and the Father and I will instruct you from the inside." The people did not understand Jesus was taught by His Father daily. Jesus wants that same communication for us. The steps? 1) Keep the commandments. 2) Take time every day to hear from God. 3) Never violate your conscience.

***

Ch. 54: Jesus At The Feast Of Tabernacles

John 7:1-8:59

Jesus Arouses Anger By Claiming Sonship With God

Jesus continued to speak, saying:

“I go my way, and ye shall seek me, and shall die in your sins. Whither I go, ye cannot come.”

The Jews said among themselves:

“Will he kill himself? Because he saith, ‘Whither I go, you cannot come.’”

Jesus said to the Jews:

“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.”

The Jews asked him:

“Who art thou?”

Jesus replied:

“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.”

The Jews did not understand that he spoke of the Father.

Jesus continued, saying:

“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.”

Because of these words, many believed in Jesus. To those Jews who believed he said:

“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.”

The Jews replied:

“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 forever; but the Son abideth forever. If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed. I know that ye are Abraham’s seed; but ye seek to kill me, because my word hath no place in you. I speak that which I have seen with my Father; and ye do that which ye have seen with your father.”

The Jews answered, saying:

“Abraham is our father.”

Jesus replied:

“If ye were Abraham’s children, ye would do the works of Abraham. But now ye seek to kill me, a man that hath told you the truth, which I have heard of God. This did not Abraham. Ye do the deeds of your father.”

The Jews said to Jesus:

“We be not born of fornication. We have one Father, even God.”

Jesus answered, saying:

“If God were your Father, ye would love me; for I proceed forth and came from God; neither came I of myself, but he that 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 him not, because ye are not of God.”

The Jews replied to those words of Jesus:

“Say we not well that thou art a Samaritan, and hast a devil?”

Jesus said:

“I have not a devil; but I honor my Father, and ye do dishonor me. And I seek not mine own glory. There is one that seeketh and judgeth. Verily, verily, I say unto you, ‘If a man keep my saying, he shall never see death.’”

To Jesus the Jews replied:

“Now we know that thou hast a devil. Abraham is dead, and the prophets. And thou sayest, ‘If a man keep my saying, he shall never taste of death.’ Art thou greater than our father Abraham, which is dead? And the prophets are dead. Whom makest thou thyself?”

Jesus replied:

“If I honor myself, my honor is nothing. It is my Father that honoreth me, of whom ye say that he is your God. Yet ye have not known him; but I know him; and if I should say, I know him not, I shall be a liar like unto you; but I know him, and keep his saying. Your father Abraham rejoiced to see my day; and he saw it, and was glad.”

The Jews said to Jesus:

“Thou are not yet fifty years old, and hast thou seen Abraham?”

Jesus answered:

“Verily, verily, I say unto you, ‘Before Abraham was, I am.’”

Then the Jews and Pharisees, their fury aroused, picked up stones to hurl at Jesus. But they could not see him as he left the temple, going through the midst of those who sought to stone him.

Ready To Give An Answer

Don C. Harris — Fri, 27 Oct 2023 15:00:00 -0600

The instruction of the Scriptures is often opposite the instructions of men. Jesus said we must deny ourselves, die and follow Jesus. We show the light to the world by our lives. If the world is not asking "of us" no light is shinning.

Muslims, Jews, Christians are known as people of the book. Disciples are not people of the book; we are people of the author.

***

Ch. 54: Jesus At The Feast Of Tabernacles

John 7:1-8:59

Jesus Rejects The Advice of His Brothers To Go To Jerusalem

When the Feast of the Tabernacles was at hand, Jesus’ brothers said to him:

“Depart hence, and go into Judea, that thy disciples also may see the works that thou doest. For there is no man that doeth anything in secret, if he himself seeketh to be known openly. If thou do these things, show thyself to the world.”

Even his brothers did not believe in him.

Jesus replied to his advisers:

“My time is not yet come; but your time is always ready. The world cannot hate you; but me it hateth, because I testify of it, that the works thereof are evil. Go ye up unto this feast. I go not up yet unto this feast; for my time is not yet full

come.”

And Jesus continued yet a while in Galilee. But, after his brothers had left for Jerusalem, he also went to the feast, not openly but secretly.

Jesus Defeats An Attempt To Arrest Him

The authorities, suspecting that Jesus was in the city, asked:

“Where is he?”

The people murmured about him. Some said:

“He is a good man.”

Others said:

“Nay, but he deceiveth the people.”

However, all were afraid to speak openly of Jesus, for fear of the authorities.

About the middle of the feast Jesus went into the temple and taught. Many people, surprised at his words, said:

“How knoweth this man letters, having never learned?”

Jesus answered them saying:

“My doctrine is not mine, but his that sent me. If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself. He that speaketh of himself seeketh his own glory; but he that seeketh his glory that sent him, the same is true, and no unrighteousness is in him. Did not Moses give you the law, and yet none of you keepeth the law? Why ye go about to kill me?”

The people answered:

“Thou hast a devil. Who goeth about to kill thee?”

Jesus replied:

“I have done one work, and ye all marvel. Moses therefore gave unto you circumcision; (not because it is of Moses, but of the fathers;) and ye on the Sabbath day circumcise a man. If a man on the Sabbath day receive circumcision, that the law of Moses should not be broken; are ye angry at me, because I have made a man every whit whole on the Sabbath day? Judge not according to the appearance, but judge righteous judgment.”

Some of those who heard him said:

“Is not this he whom they seek to kill? But, lo, he speaketh boldly, and they say nothing unto him. Do the rulers know indeed that this is the very Christ? Howbeit we know this man whence he is; but when Christ cometh, no man knoweth whence he is.”

Then Jesus cried out as he was teaching:

“Ye both know me, and ye know whence I am; and I am not come of myself, but he that sent me is true, whom ye know not. But I know him; for I am from him, and he hath sent me.”

Some suggested arresting him at once but no one laid hands on him, because his hour had not yet arrived.

Many people who listened to his words believed in Jesus and said:

“When Christ cometh, will he do more miracles than these which this man hath done?”

The Pharisees heard that the people were saying such things about Jesus. They sent chief priests and officers to arrest him.

Jesus said to them:

“Yet a little while am I with you, and then I go unto him that sent me. Ye shall seek me, and shall not find me; and where I am, thither ye cannot not come.”

Those who had come for him talked among themselves, saying:

“Whither will he go that we shall not find him? Will he go unto the dispersed among the Gentiles, and teach the Gentiles? What manner of saying is this that he said, ‘Ye shall seek me, and shall not find me,’ and, ‘Where I am, thither ye cannot come’?”

On the last and great day of the feast Jesus stood and cried out:

“If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink. He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water.”

Jesus spoke of the Spirit which those who believed in him should receive. Many of his hearers said:

“Of a truth this is the Prophet.”

Others said:

“This is the Christ.”

But some said:

“Shall Christ come out of Galilee? Hath not the scripture said that Christ cometh of the seed of David, and out of the town of Bethlehem, where David was?”

So there was a division of opinion among the people about Jesus. Some wanted to arrest him yet no one laid hands on him.

The officers, who had been sent to take him, went to the chief priests of the Pharisees, who said to them:

“Why have ye not brought him?”

The officers answered:

“Never man spake like this man.”

The Pharisees replied:

“Are ye also deceived? Have any of the rulers or of the Pharisees believed in him? But this people who knoweth not the law are cursed.”

Nicodemus, the ruler who had come to Jesus in the night, said:

“Doth our law judge any man before it hear him and know what he doeth?”

The others asked him:

“Art thou also of Galilee? Search and look; for out of Galilee ariseth no prophet.”

Jesus Protects An Accused Woman

Early in the morning Jesus went again into the temple and taught the many people who came to him.

The scribes and Pharisees brought before Jesus a woman who had been caught committing adultery. They said to him:

“Master, this woman was taken in adultery, in the very act. Now Moses in the law commanded us that such should be stoned. But what sayest thou?”

They hoped to tempt Jesus so that they might find something to accuse him of. Jesus acted as though he had not heard them, but stooped down and, with his finger, wrote on the ground.

When the scribes and Pharisees continued to press him with their questions, he straightened up and spoke to them, saying:

“He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her.”

Again he stooped and resumed his writing on the ground. When the scribes and Pharisees heard what Jesus said, their own consciences convicted them, and they went away, one by one, beginning with the eldest. Finally only Jesus and the woman remained. When he saw that they were alone, he said to her:

“Woman, where are those thine accusers? Hath no man condemned thee?”

She answered:

“No man, Lord.”

Thereupon Jesus said to her:

“Neither do I condemn thee. Go, and sin no more.”

Jesus Proclaims The Light Of The World

Again Jesus spoke, 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 accused him, saying:

“Thou bearest record of thyself. Thy record is not true.”

Jesus replied:

“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. Ye judge after the flesh; I judge no man. And yet if I judge, my judgment is true; for I am not alone, but I and the Father that sent me. It is also written in your law, that the testimony of two men is true. I am one that bear witness of myself, and the Father that sent me beareth witness of me.”

Then the Pharisees asked Jesus:

“Where is thy Father?”

Jesus answered:

“Ye neither know me, nor my Father. If ye had known me, ye should have known my Father also.”

Although Jesus spoke these words in the temple, still no effort was made to arrest him; for his hour was not yet come.

Jesus Arouses Anger By Claiming Sonship With God

Jesus continued to speak, saying:

“I go my way, and ye shall seek me, and shall die in your sins. Whither I go, ye cannot come.”

The Jews said among themselves:

“Will he kill himself? Because he saith, ‘Whither I go, you cannot come.’”

Jesus said to the Jews:

The Jews asked him:

“Who art thou?”

Jesus replied:

The Jews did not understand that he spoke of the Father.

Jesus continued, saying:

Because of these words, many believed in Jesus. To those Jews who believed he said:

“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.”

The Jews replied:

“We be Abraham’s seed, and were never in bondage to any man. How sayest thou, ‘Ye shall be made free’?”

Jesus answered them:

The Jews answered, saying:

“Abraham is our father.”

Jesus replied:

The Jews said to Jesus:

“We be not born of fornication. We have one Father, even God.”

Jesus answered, saying:

The Jews replied to those words of Jesus:

“Say we not well that thou art a Samaritan, and hast a devil?”

Jesus said:

To Jesus the Jews replied:

Jesus replied:

The Jews said to Jesus:

“Thou are not yet fifty years old, and hast thou seen Abraham?”

Jesus...

Jesus Always Obeyed His Father

Don C. Harris — Fri, 20 Oct 2023 15:00:00 -0600

Jesus operated in the Spirit, not under the law. Jesus expected conflict with the law of Moses. "He who is without sin- let him come."

***

Ch. 54: Jesus At The Feast Of Tabernacles

John 7:1-8:59

Jesus Rejects The Advice of His Brothers To Go To Jerusalem

When the Feast of the Tabernacles was at hand, Jesus’ brothers said to him:

Even his brothers did not believe in him.

Jesus replied to his advisers:

come.”

And Jesus continued yet a while in Galilee. But, after his brothers had left for Jerusalem, he also went to the feast, not openly but secretly.

Jesus Defeats An Attempt To Arrest Him

The authorities, suspecting that Jesus was in the city, asked:

“Where is he?”

The people murmured about him. Some said:

“He is a good man.”

Others said:

“Nay, but he deceiveth the people.”

However, all were afraid to speak openly of Jesus, for fear of the authorities.

About the middle of the feast Jesus went into the temple and taught. Many people, surprised at his words, said:

“How knoweth this man letters, having never learned?”

Jesus answered them saying:

The people answered:

“Thou hast a devil. Who goeth about to kill thee?”

Jesus replied:

Some of those who heard him said:

Then Jesus cried out as he was teaching:

“Ye both know me, and ye know whence I am; and I am not come of myself, but he that sent me is true, whom ye know not. But I know him; for I am from him, and he hath sent me.”

Some suggested arresting him at once but no one laid hands on him, because his hour had not yet arrived.

Many people who listened to his words believed in Jesus and said:

“When Christ cometh, will he do more miracles than these which this man hath done?”

The Pharisees heard that the people were saying such things about Jesus. They sent chief priests and officers to arrest him.

Jesus said to them:

“Yet a little while am I with you, and then I go unto him that sent me. Ye shall seek me, and shall not find me; and where I am, thither ye cannot not come.”

Those who had come for him talked among themselves, saying:

On the last and great day of the feast Jesus stood and cried out:

“If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink. He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water.”

Jesus spoke of the Spirit which those who believed in him should receive. Many of his hearers said:

“Of a truth this is the Prophet.”

Others said:

“This is the Christ.”

But some said:

“Shall Christ come out of Galilee? Hath not the scripture said that Christ cometh of the seed of David, and out of the town of Bethlehem, where David was?”

So there was a division of opinion among the people about Jesus. Some wanted to arrest him yet no one laid hands on him.

The officers, who had been sent to take him, went to the chief priests of the Pharisees, who said to them:

“Why have ye not brought him?”

The officers answered:

“Never man spake like this man.”

The Pharisees replied:

“Are ye also deceived? Have any of the rulers or of the Pharisees believed in him? But this people who knoweth not the law are cursed.”

Nicodemus, the ruler who had come to Jesus in the night, said:

“Doth our law judge any man before it hear him and know what he doeth?”

The others asked him:

“Art thou also of Galilee? Search and look; for out of Galilee ariseth no prophet.”

Jesus Protects An Accused Woman

Early in the morning Jesus went again into the temple and taught the many people who came to him.

The scribes and Pharisees brought before Jesus a woman who had been caught committing adultery. They said to him:

“Master, this woman was taken in adultery, in the very act. Now Moses in the law commanded us that such should be stoned. But what sayest thou?”

They hoped to tempt Jesus so that they might find something to accuse him of. Jesus acted as though he had not heard them, but stooped down and, with his finger, wrote on the ground.

When the scribes and Pharisees continued to press him with their questions, he straightened up and spoke to them, saying:

“He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her.”

“Woman, where are those thine accusers? Hath no man condemned thee?”

She answered:

“No man, Lord.”

Thereupon Jesus said to her:

“Neither do I condemn thee. Go, and sin no more.”

Jesus Proclaims The Light Of The World

Again Jesus spoke, 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 accused him, saying:

“Thou bearest record of thyself. Thy record is not true.”

Jesus replied:

Then the Pharisees asked Jesus:

“Where is thy Father?”

Jesus answered:

“Ye neither know me, nor my Father. If ye had known me, ye should have known my Father also.”

Although Jesus spoke these words in the temple, still no effort was made to arrest him; for his hour was not yet come.

Jesus Arouses Anger By Claiming Sonship With God

Jesus continued to speak, saying:

“I go my way, and ye shall seek me, and shall die in your sins. Whither I go, ye cannot come.”

The Jews said among themselves:

“Will he kill himself? Because he saith, ‘Whither I go, you cannot come.’”

Jesus said to the Jews:

The Jews asked him:

“Who art thou?”

Jesus replied:

The Jews did not understand that he spoke of the Father.

Jesus continued, saying:

Because of these words, many believed in Jesus. To those Jews who believed he said:

“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.”

The Jews replied:

“We be Abraham’s seed, and were never in bondage to any man. How sayest thou, ‘Ye shall be made free’?”

Jesus answered them:

The Jews answered, saying:

“Abraham is our father.”

Jesus replied:

The Jews said to Jesus:

“We be not born of fornication. We have one Father, even God.”

Jesus answered, saying:

The Jews replied to those words of Jesus:

“Say we not well that thou art a Samaritan, and hast a devil?”

Jesus said:

To Jesus the Jews replied:

Jesus replied:

The Jews said to Jesus:

“Thou are not yet fifty years old, and hast thou seen Abraham?”

Jesus answered:

“Verily, verily, I say unto you, ‘Before Abraham was, I am.’”

Then the Jews and Pharisees, their fury...

Why Do You Go About To Kill Me

Don C. Harris — Fri, 13 Oct 2023 15:00:00 -0600

Jesus lived in humility and meekness, as the example of what God wants for us. We might think our actions would have been different than the religious leaders in Jesus' day. The understanding and authority of Jesus' instruction was a surprise. The spoken truth was inarguable. But, it was not what they expected. Those who taught in the yeshivas and synagogues and walked physically with Jesus had difficulty fitting His life into the expectations of Messiah.

***

Ch. 54: Jesus At The Feast Of Tabernacles

John 7:1-8:59

Jesus Rejects The Advice of His Brothers To Go To Jerusalem

When the Feast of the Tabernacles was at hand, Jesus’ brothers said to him:

Even his brothers did not believe in him.

Jesus replied to his advisers:

come.”

And Jesus continued yet a while in Galilee. But, after his brothers had left for Jerusalem, he also went to the feast, not openly but secretly.

Jesus Defeats An Attempt To Arrest Him

The authorities, suspecting that Jesus was in the city, asked:

“Where is he?”

The people murmured about him. Some said:

“He is a good man.”

Others said:

“Nay, but he deceiveth the people.”

However, all were afraid to speak openly of Jesus, for fear of the authorities.

About the middle of the feast Jesus went into the temple and taught. Many people, surprised at his words, said:

“How knoweth this man letters, having never learned?”

Jesus answered them saying:

The people answered:

“Thou hast a devil. Who goeth about to kill thee?”

Jesus replied:

Some of those who heard him said:

Then Jesus cried out as he was teaching:

“Ye both know me, and ye know whence I am; and I am not come of myself, but he that sent me is true, whom ye know not. But I know him; for I am from him, and he hath sent me.”

Some suggested arresting him at once but no one laid hands on him, because his hour had not yet arrived.

Many people who listened to his words believed in Jesus and said:

“When Christ cometh, will he do more miracles than these which this man hath done?”

The Pharisees heard that the people were saying such things about Jesus. They sent chief priests and officers to arrest him.

Jesus said to them:

“Yet a little while am I with you, and then I go unto him that sent me. Ye shall seek me, and shall not find me; and where I am, thither ye cannot not come.”

Those who had come for him talked among themselves, saying:

On the last and great day of the feast Jesus stood and cried out:

“If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink. He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water.”

Jesus spoke of the Spirit which those who believed in him should receive. Many of his hearers said:

“Of a truth this is the Prophet.”

Others said:

“This is the Christ.”

But some said:

“Shall Christ come out of Galilee? Hath not the scripture said that Christ cometh of the seed of David, and out of the town of Bethlehem, where David was?”

So there was a division of opinion among the people about Jesus. Some wanted to arrest him yet no one laid hands on him.

The officers, who had been sent to take him, went to the chief priests of the Pharisees, who said to them:

“Why have ye not brought him?”

The officers answered:

“Never man spake like this man.”

The Pharisees replied:

“Are ye also deceived? Have any of the rulers or of the Pharisees believed in him? But this people who knoweth not the law are cursed.”

Nicodemus, the ruler who had come to Jesus in the night, said:

“Doth our law judge any man before it hear him and know what he doeth?”

The others asked him:

“Art thou also of Galilee? Search and look; for out of Galilee ariseth no prophet.”

Jesus Protects An Accused Woman

Early in the morning Jesus went again into the temple and taught the many people who came to him.

The scribes and Pharisees brought before Jesus a woman who had been caught committing adultery. They said to him:

“Master, this woman was taken in adultery, in the very act. Now Moses in the law commanded us that such should be stoned. But what sayest thou?”

They hoped to tempt Jesus so that they might find something to accuse him of. Jesus acted as though he had not heard them, but stooped down and, with his finger, wrote on the ground.

When the scribes and Pharisees continued to press him with their questions, he straightened up and spoke to them, saying:

“He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her.”

“Woman, where are those thine accusers? Hath no man condemned thee?”

She answered:

“No man, Lord.”

Thereupon Jesus said to her:

“Neither do I condemn thee. Go, and sin no more.”

Jesus Proclaims The Light Of The World

Again Jesus spoke, 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 accused him, saying:

“Thou bearest record of thyself. Thy record is not true.”

Jesus replied:

Then the Pharisees asked Jesus:

“Where is thy Father?”

Jesus answered:

“Ye neither know me, nor my Father. If ye had known me, ye should have known my Father also.”

Although Jesus spoke these words in the temple, still no effort was made to arrest him; for his hour was not yet come.

Jesus Arouses Anger By Claiming Sonship With God

Jesus continued to speak, saying:

“I go my way, and ye shall seek me, and shall die in your sins. Whither I go, ye cannot come.”

The Jews said among themselves:

“Will he kill himself? Because he saith, ‘Whither I go, you cannot come.’”

Jesus said to the Jews:

The Jews asked him:

“Who art thou?”

Jesus replied:

The Jews did not understand that he spoke of the Father.

Jesus continued, saying:

Because of these words, many believed in Jesus. To those Jews who believed he said:

“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.”

The Jews replied:

“We be Abraham’s seed, and were never in bondage to any man. How sayest thou, ‘Ye shall be made free’?”

Jesus answered them:

The Jews answered, saying:

“Abraham is our father.”

Jesus replied:

The Jews said to Jesus:

“We be not born of fornication. We have one Father, even God.”

Jesus answered, saying:

The Jews replied to those words of Jesus:

“Say we not well that thou art a Samaritan, and hast a devil?”

Jesus said:

To Jesus the Jews replied:

Jesus replied:

The Jews said to Jesus:

“Thou are not yet fifty years old, and hast thou seen...

The Feast of Tabernacles

Don C. Harris (AP) — Fri, 06 Oct 2023 15:00:00 -0600

Every action, every word, every instruction from Jesus is for edification. Not every word for every person, but messages for those who "have ears to hear." Even his disciples did not understand how the Kingdom of God was to be implemented, nor did they understand how far the religious practice was in opposition to the plan of the God. Jesus was led by the Spirit. Being instructed by Jesus and led of the Spirit is our mission. One is our Shephard, even Christ.

***

Ch. 54: Jesus At The Feast Of Tabernacles

John 7:1-8:59

Jesus Rejects The Advice of His Brothers To Go To Jerusalem

When the Feast of the Tabernacles was at hand, Jesus’ brothers said to him:

Even his brothers did not believe in him.

Jesus replied to his advisers:

come.”

And Jesus continued yet a while in Galilee. But, after his brothers had left for Jerusalem, he also went to the feast, not openly but secretly.

Jesus Defeats An Attempt To Arrest Him

The authorities, suspecting that Jesus was in the city, asked:

“Where is he?”

The people murmured about him. Some said:

“He is a good man.”

Others said:

“Nay, but he deceiveth the people.”

However, all were afraid to speak openly of Jesus, for fear of the authorities.

About the middle of the feast Jesus went into the temple and taught. Many people, surprised at his words, said:

“How knoweth this man letters, having never learned?”

Jesus answered them saying:

The people answered:

“Thou hast a devil. Who goeth about to kill thee?”

Jesus replied:

Some of those who heard him said:

Then Jesus cried out as he was teaching:

“Ye both know me, and ye know whence I am; and I am not come of myself, but he that sent me is true, whom ye know not. But I know him; for I am from him, and he hath sent me.”

Some suggested arresting him at once but no one laid hands on him, because his hour had not yet arrived.

Many people who listened to his words believed in Jesus and said:

“When Christ cometh, will he do more miracles than these which this man hath done?”

The Pharisees heard that the people were saying such things about Jesus. They sent chief priests and officers to arrest him.

Jesus said to them:

“Yet a little while am I with you, and then I go unto him that sent me. Ye shall seek me, and shall not find me; and where I am, thither ye cannot not come.”

Those who had come for him talked among themselves, saying:

On the last and great day of the feast Jesus stood and cried out:

“If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink. He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water.”

Jesus spoke of the Spirit which those who believed in him should receive. Many of his hearers said:

“Of a truth this is the Prophet.”

Others said:

“This is the Christ.”

But some said:

“Shall Christ come out of Galilee? Hath not the scripture said that Christ cometh of the seed of David, and out of the town of Bethlehem, where David was?”

So there was a division of opinion among the people about Jesus. Some wanted to arrest him yet no one laid hands on him.

The officers, who had been sent to take him, went to the chief priests of the Pharisees, who said to them:

“Why have ye not brought him?”

The officers answered:

“Never man spake like this man.”

The Pharisees replied:

“Are ye also deceived? Have any of the rulers or of the Pharisees believed in him? But this people who knoweth not the law are cursed.”

Nicodemus, the ruler who had come to Jesus in the night, said:

“Doth our law judge any man before it hear him and know what he doeth?”

The others asked him:

“Art thou also of Galilee? Search and look; for out of Galilee ariseth no prophet.”

Jesus Protects An Accused Woman

Early in the morning Jesus went again into the temple and taught the many people who came to him.

The scribes and Pharisees brought before Jesus a woman who had been caught committing adultery. They said to him:

“Master, this woman was taken in adultery, in the very act. Now Moses in the law commanded us that such should be stoned. But what sayest thou?”

They hoped to tempt Jesus so that they might find something to accuse him of. Jesus acted as though he had not heard them, but stooped down and, with his finger, wrote on the ground.

When the scribes and Pharisees continued to press him with their questions, he straightened up and spoke to them, saying:

“He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her.”

“Woman, where are those thine accusers? Hath no man condemned thee?”

She answered:

“No man, Lord.”

Thereupon Jesus said to her:

“Neither do I condemn thee. Go, and sin no more.”

Jesus Proclaims The Light Of The World

Again Jesus spoke, 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 accused him, saying:

“Thou bearest record of thyself. Thy record is not true.”

Jesus replied:

Then the Pharisees asked Jesus:

“Where is thy Father?”

Jesus answered:

“Ye neither know me, nor my Father. If ye had known me, ye should have known my Father also.”

Although Jesus spoke these words in the temple, still no effort was made to arrest him; for his hour was not yet come.

Jesus Arouses Anger By Claiming Sonship With God

Jesus continued to speak, saying:

“I go my way, and ye shall seek me, and shall die in your sins. Whither I go, ye cannot come.”

The Jews said among themselves:

“Will he kill himself? Because he saith, ‘Whither I go, you cannot come.’”

Jesus said to the Jews:

The Jews asked him:

“Who art thou?”

Jesus replied:

The Jews did not understand that he spoke of the Father.

Jesus continued, saying:

Because of these words, many believed in Jesus. To those Jews who believed he said:

“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.”

The Jews replied:

“We be Abraham’s seed, and were never in bondage to any man. How sayest thou, ‘Ye shall be made free’?”

Jesus answered them:

The Jews answered, saying:

“Abraham is our father.”

Jesus replied:

The Jews said to Jesus:

“We be not born of fornication. We have one Father, even God.”

Jesus answered, saying:

The Jews replied to those words of Jesus:

“Say we not well that thou art a Samaritan, and hast a devil?”

Jesus said:

To Jesus the Jews replied:

Jesus replied:

The Jews said to Jesus:

“Thou are not yet fifty years old,...

Live In Harmony

Don C. Harris — Fri, 29 Sep 2023 15:00:00 -0600

Practice putting your ego in-check; esteem others as better. Resolve issues of offense or transgressions with an attitude of humility. First, go one-on-one to restore the relationship. Secondly, if they won't hear you, go to an objective, non-emotional audience. Next, if still no reconciliation, then go to the church for counsel. Strive to get along with one another. Resentment, unforgiveness, and discord block our ears. Fourth, "count the one who refuses reconciliation as a heathen and a publican", not a condemnation; but a path to peace and harmony.

***

Ch 53: Jesus Discusses The Need For Humility

Matthew 18:1-35; Mark 9:33-50; Luke 9:46-50

Who Is The Greatest In The Kingdom?

ON THEIR way to Capernaum the disciples argued among themselves. When he was in the house, Jesus asked them:

“What was it that ye disputed among yourselves by the way?”

The disciples were silent for they had disputed about who was the greatest.

Jesus sat down with them and said:

“If any man desire to be first, the same shall be last of all, and servant of all.”

Then he set a child in the midst of the disciples and, holding him in his arms, he said:

“Verily I say unto you, ‘Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of Heaven.’ Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of Heaven. And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me.”

Tolerance Urged

John said to Jesus:

“Master, we saw one casting out devils in thy name, and he followeth not us. And we forbade him, because he followeth not us.”

Jesus replied:

“Forbid him not; for there is no man which shall do a miracle in my name, that can lightly speak evil of me. For he that is not against us is on our part. For whosoever shall give you a cup of water to drink in my name, because ye belong to Christ, verily I say unto you, ‘He shall not lose his reward.’

Offenses to Avoid

“But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea. Woe unto the world because of offenses! For it must needs be that offenses come; but woe to that man by whom the offense cometh!

Wherefore if thy hand or thy foot offend thee, cut them off, and cast them from thee. It is better for thee to enter into life halt or mained, rather than have two hands or two feet to be cast into everlasting fire. And if thine eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee. It is better for thee to enter into life with one eye, rather than having two eyes to be cast into hell fire. Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you that in Heaven their angels do always behold the face of my Father which is in Heaven.

For the Son of man is come to save that which was lost.

No One Is Unimportant In The Sight Of God

“How think ye? If a man have a hundred sheep, and one of them be gone astray, does he not leave the ninety and nine, and go into the mountains, and seek the one that has gone astray? And if so be that he find it, verily I say unto you, he rejoiceth more of that sheep, than of the ninety and nine which went not astray. Even so it is not the will of your Father which is in Heaven that one of these little ones should Perish.

Godlike Reconciliation

“Moreover, if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone. If he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother. But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established. And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church. But if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as a heathen man and a publican. Verily I say unto you, ‘Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in Heaven; and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in Heaven.’ again I say unto you that if two of you shall agree on earth as touching anything that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in Heaven. For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.”

Godlike Forgiveness

Peter asked Jesus:

“Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? Till seven times?”

Jesus replied:

“I say not unto thee, ‘Until seven times.’ but, ‘Until seventy times seven.’

“Therefore is the kingdom of Heaven likened unto a certain king, which would take account of his servants. And when he had begun to reckon, one was brought unto him, which owed him ten thousand talents. 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. The servant therefore fell down, and worshiped him, saying, ‘Lord, have patience with me, and I will pay thee all.’ Then the lord of that servant was moved with compassion, and loosed him, and forgave him the debt. But the same servant went out, and found one of his fellow servants, which owed him a hundred pence. And he laid hands on him, and took him by the throat, saying, ‘Pay me that thou owest.’ And his fellow servant fell down at his feet, and besought him, saying, ‘Have patience with me, and I will pay thee all.’ And he would not; but went and cast him into prison, till he should pay the debt. So when his fellow servants saw what was done, they were very sorry, and came and told unto their lord all that was done. 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. Shouldst not thou also have had compassion on thy fellow servant, even as I had pity on thee?’ And his lord was wroth, and delivered him to the tormentors, til he should pay all that was due unto him. So likewise shall my heavenly Father do also unto you, if ye from your hearts forgive not every one his brother their trespasses.”

Empathy Ego Humility Meekness

Don C. Harris — Fri, 22 Sep 2023 15:00:00 -0600

Confront the Words of Jesus in actuality not based on Bible study or Church ideas. Allow truth to replace tradition. Jesus provided the way to reconciliation. It's a joint opportunity for us to strive with Him, to obey His commandments, to hear instruction; it is a matter of authority.

***

Ch 53: Jesus Discusses The Need For Humility

Matthew 18:1-35; Mark 9:33-50; Luke 9:46-50

Who Is The Greatest In The Kingdom?

ON THEIR way to Capernaum the disciples argued among themselves. When he was in the house, Jesus asked them:

“What was it that ye disputed among yourselves by the way?”

The disciples were silent for they had disputed about who was the greatest.

Jesus sat down with them and said:

“If any man desire to be first, the same shall be last of all, and servant of all.”

Then he set a child in the midst of the disciples and, holding him in his arms, he said:

Tolerance Urged

John said to Jesus:

“Master, we saw one casting out devils in thy name, and he followeth not us. And we forbade him, because he followeth not us.”

Jesus replied:

Offenses to Avoid

For the Son of man is come to save that which was lost.

No One Is Unimportant In The Sight Of God

Godlike Reconciliation

Godlike Forgiveness

Peter asked Jesus:

“Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? Till seven times?”

Jesus replied:

“I say not unto thee, ‘Until seven times.’ but, ‘Until seventy times seven.’

Hold People In The Proper Light

Don C. Harris — Fri, 15 Sep 2023 15:00:00 -0600

Remember, the actual ministry of Christ is to feed the hungry, cloth the needy and help the poor. Keep money in the proper place in our life, not our god. Agreement on all matters is not required. Our progress in the Kingdom of God is an individual journey. Listen to the Holy Spirit to hear the correction of your loving Heavenly Father. Consider the end of your life. Reject social power. Everybody is equally important to God. Ego is a problem.

***

Ch 52: Jesus Tells Peter To Get The Tax Money From The Mouth Of A Fish

Matthew 17:24-27

JESUS AND his disciples returned to Capernaum. The collectors of the temple tax asked Peter:

“Doth not your master pay taxes?”

Peter replied:

“Yes.”

When he came into the house, Jesus said to him:

“What thinketh thou, Simon? Of whom do the kings of the earth take custom or tribute?

Of their own children, or of strangers?”

Peter answered:

“Of strangers.”

Jesus then said:

“Then are the children free. Notwithstanding, lest we should offend them, go thou to the sea, and cast a hook, and take up the fish that first cometh up; and when thou hast opened his mouth, thou shalt find a piece of money. That take, and give unto them for me and thee.”

***

53: Jesus Discusses The Need For Humility

Matthew 18:1-35; Mark 9:33-50; Luke 9:46-50

Who Is The Greatest In The Kingdom?

ON THEIR way to Capernaum the disciples argued among themselves. When he was in the house, Jesus asked them:

“What was it that ye disputed among yourselves by the way?”

The disciples were silent for they had disputed about who was the greatest.

Jesus sat down with them and said:

“If any man desire to be first, the same shall be last of all, and servant of all.”

Then he set a child in the midst of the disciples and, holding him in his arms, he said:

Tolerance Urged

John said to Jesus:

“Master, we saw one casting out devils in thy name, and he followeth not us. And we forbade him, because he followeth not us.”

Jesus replied:

Offenses to Avoid

For the Son of man is come to save that which was lost.

No One Is Unimportant In The Sight Of God

Godlike Reconciliation

Godlike Forgiveness

Peter asked Jesus:

“Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? Till seven times?”

Jesus replied:

“I say not unto thee, ‘Until seven times.’ but, ‘Until seventy times seven.’

Going The Second Mile

Don C. Harris — Fri, 08 Sep 2023 15:00:00 -0600

Obedience. Character. Righteousness. Our God requires Christian's to do the right thing for the right reason. Strive to keep the things of this world in the proper light. "Money is sewage, not my savior." The goal is to have the right attitude toward money. The obedience of paying tithes allows God to get involved in our finances. Regarding tithes Jesus said, "...these things ye ought to have done." Love makes us want to give to those we love -- our families, our neighbors, our God. We are only able to give a gift or offering when our tithes have been paid.

"God so loved that He gave..." It's a divine principle.

***

Ch 52: Jesus Tells Peter To Get The Tax Money From The Mouth Of A Fish

Matthew 17:24-27

JESUS AND his disciples returned to Capernaum. The collectors of the temple tax asked Peter:

“Doth not your master pay taxes?”

Peter replied:

“Yes.”

When he came into the house, Jesus said to him:

“What thinketh thou, Simon? Of whom do the kings of the earth take custom or tribute?

Of their own children, or of strangers?”

Peter answered:

“Of strangers.”

Jesus then said:

Treat Money Like A Rival to YHVH

Don C. Harris — Fri, 01 Sep 2023 15:00:00 -0600

It is our duty to work to meet our physical needs in this world. Today, we are compensated with money. It's a good system when our hearts do not turn to our own ability to meet our needs. We must use caution to keep our earnings in the proper perspective. Is the question of desires or unexpected tragedy, "Can I afford it?" instead of "Is it God's will for me?" The more money we have the more difficult it is to hold it in the proper light. Our faith is revealed by where we turn to solve a problem. Who do we trust? Money? The lottery? The government? A relationship with the Lord Jesus?

***

Ch 52: Jesus Tells Peter To Get The Tax Money From The Mouth Of A Fish

Matthew 17:24-27

JESUS AND his disciples returned to Capernaum. The collectors of the temple tax asked Peter:

“Doth not your master pay taxes?”

Peter replied:

“Yes.”

When he came into the house, Jesus said to him:

“What thinketh thou, Simon? Of whom do the kings of the earth take custom or tribute?

Of their own children, or of strangers?”

Peter answered:

“Of strangers.”

Jesus then said:

A Heavenly Conference Call

Don C. Harris — Fri, 25 Aug 2023 15:00:00 -0600

Elijah (John the Baptist) came unnoticed and misunderstood. The religious leadership had the same trouble with Jesus and his authority. They often said, "We will not have this man, Jesus, to reign over us." They preferred their traditions and their authority. The law and the prophets could be manipulated. We have the same problems today. Tradition, false doctrines and mistaken objectives prevented Jesus' acceptance as Messiah. The miracles were not enough.

Jesus told his disciples "Things have changed... I'm gonna die."

***

Ch 49: Jesus Is Questioned Regarding Elijah

Matthew 17:9-13; Mark 9:9-13

AS THEY came down from the mountain, Jesus said to the three disciples:

“Tell the vision to no man, until the Son of man be risen again from the dead.”

The three were greatly perplexed and asked among themselves what “risen from the dead” meant.

Then they went to Jesus and asked him:

“Why say the scribes that Elijah must first come?”

Jesus replied:

“Elijah truly shall first come, and restore all things. But I say unto you that Elijah is come already, and they knew him not, but have done unto him whatsoever they listed. Likewise shall also the Son of man suffer of them.”

The disciples knew that Jesus spoke of John the Baptist.

***

Ch 50: Jesus Heals The Convulsed Child

Matthew 17:41-21; Mark 9:14-29; Luke 9:37-42

WHEN JESUS came to the rest of his disciples, he found a great crowd gathered about them and they were being questioned by scribes. When people saw Jesus, they ran to him and greeted him.

Jesus addressed the scribes, asking:

“What question ye with them?”

A man came out of the multitude and, kneeling before Jesus, said:

“Lord, have mercy on my son; for he is epileptic, and suffereth grievously. For ofttimes he falleth into the fire, and oft into the water. And I brought him to thy disciples, and they could not cure him.”

Jesus replied:

“O faithless and perverse generation, how long shall I be with you? How long shall I suffer you? Bring him hither to me.”

When the child was brought before Jesus, the dumb spirit tore him. He fell on the ground and wallowed, foaming at the mouth.

Jesus asked the father:

“How long is it ago since this came unto him?”

The father replied:

“Of a child; but if thou canst do anything, have compassion on us, and help us.”

To the father Jesus said:

“If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth.”

The father of the child cried out and said tearfully:

“Lord, I believe. Help thou mine unbelief.”

The people all came running to Jesus, who rebuked the foul spirit, saying:

“Thou dumb and deaf spirit, I charge thee, come out of him, and enter no more into him.”

The spirit cried out, caused the child to writhe in pain, but came out of him. The child lay quietly on the ground, causing many to say:

“He is dead.”

But Jesus took him by the hand, lifted him up, and he arose.

All were amazed with the mighty power of God.

The disciples came to Jesus, saying of the dumb and deaf spirit:

“Why could not we cast him out?”

Jesus replied:

“Because of your unbelief. For verily I say unto you, ‘If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, “Remove hence to yonder place”; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you.’ Howbeit this kind goeth not out but by prayer and fasting.”

***

Ch 51: Jesus Again Predicts His Death And Resurrection

Matthew 17:22, 23; Mark 9:30-32; Luke 9:43-45

AS JESUS and his disciples were passing through Galilee, Jesus said to them:

“The Son of man shall be betrayed into the hands of men; and they shall kill him, and the third day he shall be raised again.”

The disciples were very sorrowful and did not understand, but they were afraid to ask Jesus to explain the meaning.

Something New Under The Sun

Don C. Harris — Fri, 18 Aug 2023 15:00:00 -0600

The long-awaited Messiah, Jesus, came to earth. Something new. It is one thing to anticipate the answer and correction of all things. It is quite another for the authority to arrive. As a man, Jesus lived in obedience to God the Father, demonstrating the way we are to operate in the Kingdom of God. Promise of Jesus when I go away, the Spirit of God will come and lead you from the inside. Previous efforts to reconcile God and man through the law and the prophets failed.

God says, "I am not a book. Go to Jesus for answers."

***

Ch 48: Jesus’ Transfiguration

Matthew 17:1-8; Mark 9:2-8; Luke 9:28-36

ABOUT A week later Jesus went with three of his disciples, Peter, James, and John, into a high mountain to pray.

As he prayed he was transfigured before them. His face shone as the sun and his garments became white and glistening, as bright as light. Moses and Elijah appeared and talked with Jesus about coming events at Jerusalem.

Peter said:

“Master, it is good for us to be here; and let us make three tabernacles: one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elijah.”

While Peter was speaking a bright cloud came over them and out of it came a voice, which said:

“THIS IS MY BELOVED SON, IN WHOM I AM WELL PLEASED. HERE YE HIM.”

When the disciples heard the voice, they were afraid and fell on their faces.

Jesus came and touched them, saying:

“Arise and be not afraid.”

And when they had lifted up their eyes, they saw no one but Jesus.

The three disciples guarded word of this event as a secret, telling no one what they had seen.

Education Thwarts Gods Plan

Don C. Harris — Fri, 11 Aug 2023 15:00:00 -0600

The relationship between God and man is intimate and personal. Taught ideas (religions) are subject to the persuasions of another teacher; however, revelation from God cannot be easily replaced. The message of Jesus speaks to those who are called of God. "One is your Teacher, even Christ." There's a mystery, hidden in the gospels, a restoration of the communication lost in the Garden.

Jesus bears witness to the truth, those of the truth hear him.

***

Ch 47: Jesus Predicts His Death And Resurrection

Matthew 16:21-28; Mark 8:31-9:1; Luke 9:22-27

JESUS BEGAN to teach his disciples saying:

“The Son of man must suffer many things, and be rejected of the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be slain, and be raised the third day.”

Then Peter rebuked Jesus, saying:

“Be it far from thee, Lord. This shall not be unto thee.”

Jesus replied to Peter:

“Get thee behind me, Satan; thou art an offense unto me; for thou savorest not the things that be of God, but those that be of men.”

Then Jesus called all the people before him and said:

“If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me. For whosoever will save his life shall lose it; but whosoever will lose his life for my sake, the same shall have it. For what is a man advantaged, if he gain the whole world, and lose himself, or be cast away? For whosoever shall be ashamed of me and of my words, of him shall the Son of man be ashamed, when he shall come in his own glory, and in his Father’s, and of the holy angels. But I tell you of a truth, there be some standing here, which shall not taste of death, till they see the kingdom of God.”

Who Do Men Say That I Am

Don C. Harris — Fri, 04 Aug 2023 15:00:00 -0600

The Ten Commandments state the laws of the Kingdom of God. These behaviors are required to please God. Evangelism through persuasion or education is not the plan of God. Rather, it is people who keep the commandments who get the attention of the Spirit of God.

For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to shew himself strong in the behalf of them whose heart is perfect toward him... 2 Chron. 16:9

Jesus instructed His disciples, "See that you tell no man." If we won't keep the law, persuasion, resurrection or miracles will not be sufficient to enter the Kingdom of God. The Kingdom of God comes by revelation, not observation.

***

Ch 46: Jesus Asks: “Who Do Men Say That I Am?”

Matthew 16:13-20; Mark 8:27-30; Luke 9:18-21

WHILE THEY were on the coasts of Caesarea Philippi, Jesus asked his disciples:

“Who do men say that I, the Son of man, am?”

The disciples replied:

“Some say that thou art John the Baptist; some, Elijah; and others, Jeremiah, or one of the prophets.”

Jesus asked:

“But who say ye that I am?”

Simon Peter answered, saying:

“Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.”

Jesus responded:

“Blessed art thou, Simon Bar-Jonah; for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in Heaven. And I say unto thee that thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. And I will give unto thee the keys to the kingdom of Heaven; and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in Heaven; and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in Heaven.”

Then Jesus instructed his disciples to tell no one that he was Jesus, the Christ.

Degrees of Christianity

Don C. Harris — Fri, 28 Jul 2023 15:00:00 -0600

Have we been regenerated? Born again? There are degrees of Christianity. We begin to learn God's ways by keeping the ten Commandments; the hope is to graduate to maturity by denying ourselves (remove selfishness), taking up our cross (suffer wrongfully), and following Jesus. The Law will show you into the Kingdom of God, but it will always bring you to Jesus for regeneration.

Here's the proof of regeneration according to the gospels:

1 John 2:3, "And hereby we do know that we know him, if we keep his commandments."

1 John 3:14, "We know that we have passed from death unto life, because we love the brethren. He that loveth not his brother abides in death."

Romans 8:16, "The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God:"

***

Ch 45: Jesus Heals A Blind Man Of Bethsaida

Mark 8:22-26

AT BETHSAIDA a blind man was brought to Jesus, and he was asked to touch the man so that he should be healed.

Jesus took the hand of the blind man and led him out of the town. Applying spittle to his eyes, Jesus asked if he could see.

The man looked up and said:

“I see men as trees, walking.”

Then Jesus touched the man again and made him look up. His eyesight was then normal and he saw clearly.

Jesus told the man to go home, saying:

“Neither go into the town, nor tell it to any in the town.”

Change Costs Relationships

Don C. Harris — Fri, 21 Jul 2023 15:00:00 -0600

WARNING: The desire to belong and to be accepted is a deterrent to a Christian. "I've never heard anything like that before," the murmurings of any who listen to the words of Jesus. His unique understanding and instruction conveyed the way for lost, dead men to live; ironically, it costs your life. "Deny yourself. Take up your cross. Follow me." It's lonely. It's difficult. It's fraught with persecution. It's change. It upsets the status quo! It's repentance. It's worth it!

***

Ch 44: Jesus Warns Against The Teachings Of The Pharisees And Sadducees

Matthew 16:5-12; Mark 8:13-21

WHEN JESUS had left the Pharisees and Sadducees to whom he had refused a sign, he embarked, with his disciples, to cross the sea.

The disciples forgot to take food with them. There was only one loaf in the ship.

Jesus said to them:

“Take heed and beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees.”

His disciples reasoned the meaning of this among themselves, thinking:

“It is because we have taken no bread.”

Jesus knew what they were thinking and said:

“Why reason ye because ye have no bread? Perceive ye not yet, neither understand? Have ye your heart hardened? Having eyes, see ye not? And having ears, hear ye not? And do ye not remember? When I brake the five loaves among five thousand, how many baskets full of fragments took ye up?”

The disciples answered:

“Twelve.”

Then Jesus asked:

“And when the seven among four thousand, how many baskets full of fragments took ye up?”

They answered:

“Seven.”

Then Jesus said to them:

“How is it that ye do not understand that I spake it not to you concerning bread, that ye should beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees?”

So they understood that Jesus did not bid them beware of the leaven of bread but of the teachings of the Pharisees and Sadducees.

One Sign

Don C. Harris — Fri, 14 Jul 2023 15:00:00 -0600

God will not prove himself to mankind. Ch. 43 The issue is faith. Did Jesus mean what He said? We cannot believe in Jesus apart from His words. Ch. 44 The lesson continues in our day as in his, Jesus versus tradition.

***

Ch 44: Jesus Warns Against The Teachings Of The Pharisees And Sadducees

Matthew 16:5-12; Mark 8:13-21

WHEN JESUS had left the Pharisees and Sadducees to whom he had refused a sign, he embarked, with his disciples, to cross the sea.

The disciples forgot to take food with them. There was only one loaf in the ship.

Jesus said to them:

“Take heed and beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees.”

His disciples reasoned the meaning of this among themselves, thinking:

“It is because we have taken no bread.”

Jesus knew what they were thinking and said:

The disciples answered:

“Twelve.”

Then Jesus asked:

“And when the seven among four thousand, how many baskets full of fragments took ye up?”

They answered:

“Seven.”

Then Jesus said to them:

“How is it that ye do not understand that I spake it not to you concerning bread, that ye should beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees?”

So they understood that Jesus did not bid them beware of the leaven of bread but of the teachings of the Pharisees and Sadducees.

***

Ch 43: Jesus Again Refuses To Give A Sign To The Pharisees And

Sadducees

Matthew 15:39, 16:1-4; Mark 8:10-12

IMMEDIATELY AFTER he had fed the four thousand, Jesus and his disciples went by boat to another part of the country.

The Pharisees and Sadducees came and tempted Jesus, asking him to show a sign from Heaven as evidence of his authority.

Jesus refused them, saying:

“When it is evening, ye say, ‘It will be fair weather: for the sky is red.’ And in the morning, ‘It will be foul weather today: for the sky is red and lowering.’ O ye hypocrites, ye can discern the face of the sky; but can ye not discern the signs of the times? A wicked and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign; and there shall no sign be given unto it, but the sign of the prophet Jonah.”

Then Jesus immediately left them.

Substance Over Signs

Don C. Harris — Fri, 07 Jul 2023 15:00:00 -0600

The communication barrier between God and man thwarted every attempt to relay the truth Jesus came to reveal. You can hear the frustration of Jesus, "wicked and adulterous generations seek signs." Hunger and thirst after righteousness not signs. There's a way to bypass the issue of physical signs and education proof texts. Jesus said, "If you'll keep my commandments, the Father and I will teach you from the inside." Jesus said, "My words are Spirit and they are Life."

***

Ch 43: Jesus Again Refuses To Give A Sign To The Pharisees And

Sadducees

Matthew 15:39, 16:1-4; Mark 8:10-12

IMMEDIATELY AFTER he had fed the four thousand, Jesus and his disciples went by boat to another part of the country.

The Pharisees and Sadducees came and tempted Jesus, asking him to show a sign from Heaven as evidence of his authority.

Jesus refused them, saying:

Then Jesus immediately left them.

Human-Natural Effort

Don C. Harris — Fri, 30 Jun 2023 15:00:00 -0600

Christianity Is Not A Hobby

Christians are required to participate in our change (repentance). Salvation is a process which necessitates instruction from Jesus. Who else is able to minister to the individual needs of thousands? Religion offers education in the Scriptures or church traditions or history. While there is encouragement and benefit to be derived from reading the testimonies, Jesus is alive and speaking with compassion. Make room in our lives to hear from Him. Keep the Ten Commandments. Never violate your conscience. Take time every day to hear. Put your life on hold (at least 20 minutes a day) to pursue a righteousness.

***

Ch. 42: Jesus Feeds Four Thousand

Matthew 15:32-38; Mark 8:1-9

JESUS CALLED his disciples to him and said:

“I have compassion on the multitude, because they continue with me now three days, and have nothing to eat; and I will not send them away fasting, lest they faint in the way.”

Many in the multitude of more than four thousand had come far. His disciples replied:

“Whence should we have so much bread in the wilderness, as to fill so great a multitude?”

Jesus asked:

“How many loaves have ye?”

The disciples answered:

“Seven, and a few little fishes.”

Then Jesus commanded the multitude to sit on the ground. He took the loaves and the fishes, gave thanks, and broke them. He handed them to his disciples, who passed them to all who were there.

When all had eaten and were filled, the remaining fragments were gathered together and filled seven baskets.

Then Jesus sent the multitude away.

The Word of God More Than Words in Ink

Don C. Harris — Fri, 23 Jun 2023 15:00:00 -0600

Genesis chapter one records the incredible power of God's word in creation of the world (and man) in six days. It's a beautiful story worthy of revisiting. In the cool of the day God walked and communed with Adam. Soon, however, the disobedience of Adam created a schism which made such communion impossible. As Adam and Eve were removed from the garden a promise of reconciliation shines through the darkness. The Scriptures record the copious actions and plans of God to restore communion with His man. A man of faith (Abraham), the ten commandments (Moses), a priesthood (from the Levite to Melchizedek) and a meeting place (from a temple to the heart) prepared the way. In time, Immanuel, Jesus, the Word of God, came to make the blind see, the deaf hear, the captive free, and the dead to life. "Be opened."

"He that has ears to hear let him hear."

***

Ch 41: Jesus Heals A Deaf-And-Dumb Man

Matthew 15:29-31; Mark 7:31-37

JESUS left the coastal regions of Tyre and Sidon, where he had driven the unclean spirit from the daughter of the Greek woman, and crossed the Sea of Galilee to the coasts of Decapolis.

A deaf man, who also had an impediment in his speech, was brought before Jesus, who was asked to put his hand upon the man.

Jesus took the man to one side, put his fingers into his ears, and touched his tongue. Looking up to heaven, Jesus said:

“Be opened.”

Immediately the ears of the man opened, the impediment in his speech was removed, and he could hear and speak plainly.

Jesus ordered them to tell no one how he was cured. But as in other instances when charged not to publish the great healing works of Jesus, they spread the word widely.

All men were astonished beyond measure and said:

“He hath done all things well. He maketh both the deaf to hear, and the dumb to speak.”

Put Christ Back Into Christian

Don C. Harris — Fri, 16 Jun 2023 15:00:00 -0600

Conviction comes from God. Deal with the issues of your heart in private. Come as you are, then change; make corrections. Our mouth reveals our hearts - listen to hear your own words. Endure honest communication. Jesus came to save HIS PEOPLE not Gentiles; to bring grace (not unmerited favor) but, the power for men to become Sons of God. The Syrophoenician woman, 'called a dog', reached out in humility with an importunic prayer. Salvation is not an inherited right. Faith is required.

***

Ch. 40: Jesus Heals the Daughter of a Canaanitish Woman

Matthew 5:21-28; Mark 7:24-30

AFTER JESUS had defended his disciples because they ate bread with unwashed hands, he went into the coastal regions of Tyre and Sidon, hoping to escape from the crowds.

However, his presence could not be hidden for long. A Greek woman, native of Syro-Phoenicia, whose little daughter had an unclean spirit, heard of him. She came to him and fell at his feet, saying:

“Have mercy on me, O Lord, thou son of David, my daughter is grievously vexed with a devil.”

But Jesus did not answer her.

His disciples came to Jesus and said:

“Send her away, for she crieth after us.”

But Jesus replied:

“I am not sent but unto the lost sheep of the house of Israel.”

The woman continued to worship him and said:

“Lord help me.”

Jesus replied, saying:

“It is not proper to take the children’s bread, and to cast it to dogs.”

The woman said:

“Truth, Lord, yet the dogs eat of the crumbs which fall from their masters’ table.”

Seeing such great faith, Jesus said:

“O woman, great is thy faith; be it unto thee even as thou wilt.”

When the woman returned home, she found that her daughter had been healed from that very hour.

A More Excellent Way

Don C. Harris — Fri, 09 Jun 2023 15:00:00 -0600

Embrace correction from Jesus. Tradition, ego, laziness, fear all contribute to dependence of a middleman or a sacrament to avoid the simple correction of our God. The message of the Kingdom of God is "repent!" In our vernacular, repent should be read as "change". Change is required for us to be restored to right relationship with God so we can enter the Kingdom of God. Let he who has ears to hear, hear; everyone will not understand.

***

Chapter 39: Jesus Defends His Disciples for Eating with Unwashed Hands

Matthew 15:1-20; Mark 7:1-23

Certain Pharisees and scribes from Jerusalem came to Jesus, finding fault that his disciples ate bread with unwashed hands.

For, according to tradition long handed down, the Pharisees and Jews could not eat without first washing their hands. There were many other old laws concerning the washing of cups, pots, brass vessels, and tables.

The Pharisees and scribes asked Jesus:

“Why do thy disciples transgress the tradition of the elders? They wash not their hands when they eat bread.”

Jesus replied:

“Well hath Isaiah prophesied of you hypocrites, as it is written, “This people honoreth me with their lips, but their heart is far from me. Howbeit in vain do they worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.’ For laying aside the commandment of God, ye hold the tradition of men, as the washing of pots and cups; and many other such like things ye do. Full well ye reject the commandment of God, that ye may keep your own tradition. For Moses said, ‘Honor thy father and thy mother,’ and ‘Whoso curseth father or mother, let him die the death.’ But ye say, ‘If a man shall say to his father or mother, “It is Corban,” that is to say, a gift, by whatsoever thou mightest be profited by me; he shall be free.’ And ye suffer him no more to do aught for his father or mother; making the word of God of none effect through your tradition, which ye have delivered; and many such like things do ye.”

Then Jesus called all the people to him and said:

“Hearken unto me every one of you, and understand. There is nothing from without a man, that entering into him can defile him. But the things which come out of him, those are they that defile the man. If any man have ears to hear, let him hear.”

When Jesus retired from the people into the house, his disciples came to him and said:

“Knowest thou that the Pharisees were offended, after they heard this saying?”

Jesus replied:

“Every plant which my heavenly Father hath not planted shall be rooted up. Let them alone. They be blind leaders of the blind. And if the blind lead the blind, both shall fall into the ditch.”

Then Peter, the disciple, said:

“Declare unto us this parable.”

Jesus answered:

“Are ye so without understanding also? Do ye not perceive, that whatsoever thing from without entereth into man, it cannot defile him; because it entereth not into his heart, but into the belly, and goeth out into the draught, purging all meats? That which cometh out of the man, that defileth the man. For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders, thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lasciviousness, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness. All these evil things come from within, and defile the man.”

Subjects Obey the King

Don C. Harris — Fri, 02 Jun 2023 15:00:00 -0600

Be Christian. Not having everything you want, but wanting everything you have. Our natural inclination is to dispense with God’s rules and do life our way. We make our fences to protect the commandments and we make our fences to avoid doing what is commanded. Servants obey. When we meet those who “…walk not with us…” love them anyway. Christians have the power to suffer wrongfully, to forgive and to live humbly. Our goal is regeneration.

***

Chapter 39: Jesus Defends His Disciples for Eating with Unwashed Hands

Matthew 15:1-20; Mark 7:1-23

Certain Pharisees and scribes from Jerusalem came to Jesus, finding fault that his disciples ate bread with unwashed hands.

The Pharisees and scribes asked Jesus:

“Why do thy disciples transgress the tradition of the elders? They wash not their hands when they eat bread.”

Jesus replied:

Then Jesus called all the people to him and said:

When Jesus retired from the people into the house, his disciples came to him and said:

“Knowest thou that the Pharisees were offended, after they heard this saying?”

Jesus replied:

“Every plant which my heavenly Father hath not planted shall be rooted up. Let them alone. They be blind leaders of the blind. And if the blind lead the blind, both shall fall into the ditch.”

Then Peter, the disciple, said:

“Declare unto us this parable.”

Jesus answered:

Compare the Tenants of your Faith to the Requirements of Jesus

Don C. Harris — Fri, 26 May 2023 15:00:00 -0600

Seventy years of captivity was the Jews' punishment for ignoring the Sabbath commandment for 490 years. As a result, they overcorrected by building fences (traditions) to protect the Sabbath. In reality, they made keeping the Sabbath onerous and complex. Once a day of rest, it became an encyclopedia of dos and don’ts wielded with precision and penalties; all the while, the intent of the commandment was lost. God knows we need a day off, a day of fellowship with Him, in order to meet the demands of life with justice, mercy and humility. Compare the tenants of your faith to the requirements of Jesus. Jesus says His burden is light. Is yours?

***

Chapter 39: Jesus Defends His Disciples for Eating with Unwashed Hands

Matthew 15:1-20; Mark 7:1-23

Certain Pharisees and scribes from Jerusalem came to Jesus, finding fault that his disciples ate bread with unwashed hands.

The Pharisees and scribes asked Jesus:

“Why do thy disciples transgress the tradition of the elders? They wash not their hands when they eat bread.”

Jesus replied:

Then Jesus called all the people to him and said:

When Jesus retired from the people into the house, his disciples came to him and said:

“Knowest thou that the Pharisees were offended, after they heard this saying?”

Jesus replied:

“Every plant which my heavenly Father hath not planted shall be rooted up. Let them alone. They be blind leaders of the blind. And if the blind lead the blind, both shall fall into the ditch.”

Then Peter, the disciple, said:

“Declare unto us this parable.”

Jesus answered:

The Bread of Life

Don C. Harris — Fri, 19 May 2023 15:00:00 -0600

The message of John the Baptist and of Jesus to the people and the church-leadership was "[Change]! Repent.” The Kingdom of God is at hand. The Jews murmured at this because Jesus didn't fit their ideas. This is also true in our generation. Jesus instructed people to look for the anti-Christ, tribulation, persecution, death - and resurrection. He did not speak of “a rapture escape” or of going-to-heaven-when-we-die. Don’t take offense. Repent. Change.

***

Ch. 38 - Jesus Speaks of the Bread of Life

John 6:22-71

The next day the people on the shore he had left sought Jesus but could not find him. They knew that no boat had been there but the one his disciples had entered, and they knew Jesus had not entered it with them.

Many other boats came to the place where he fed the five thousand. Those on these ships, hearing that Jesus was gone, sailed to Capernaum, taking with them many from the shore who were also searching for Jesus.

They found Jesus teaching in a synagogue in Capernaum and they said to him:

“Master, when camest thou hither?”

Jesus answered them, saying:

“Verily, verily, I say unto you, ‘Ye seek me, not because ye saw the miracles, but because ye did eat of the loaves, and were filled.’ Labor not for the meat which perisheth, but for that meat which endureth unto everlasting life, which the Son of man shall give unto you; for him hath God the Father sealed.”

They said to him:

“What shall we do, that we might work the works of God?”

Jesus replied:

“This is the work of God, that ye believe on him whom he hath sent.”

Then they asked him:

“What sign showest thou then, that we may see, and believe thee? What dost thou work?

Our fathers ate manna in the desert; as it is written, ‘He gave them bread from Heaven to eat.’”

Jesus answered:

“Verily, verily, I say unto you, ‘Moses gave you not that bread from Heaven; but my Father giveth you the true bread from Heaven. For the bread of God is he which cometh down from Heaven, and giveth life unto the world.’”

They said:

“Lord, evermore give us this bread.”

Jesus said:

“I am the bread of life. He that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst. But I said unto you that ye also have seen me and believe not. All that the Father giveth me shall come to me; and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out. For I came down from Heaven, not to do mine own will, but the will of him that sent me. And this is the Father’s will which hath sent me, that of all which he hath given me I should lose nothing, but should raise it up again at the last day. And this is the will of him that sent me, that everyone which seeth the Son, and believeth on him, may have everlasting life; and I will raise him up at the last day.”

The Jews murmured against him because he had said that he was the bread which had come down from Heaven. They asked:

“Is not this Jesus, the son of Joseph, whose father and mother we know? How is it then that he saith, ‘I came down from Heaven’?”

Jesus replied to them:

“Murmur not among yourselves. No man can come to me, except the Father which hath sent me draw him; and I will raise him up at the last day. It is written in the prophets, ‘And they shall be all taught of God.’ Every man therefore that hath heard, and hath learned of the Father, cometh unto me. Not that any man hath seen the Father, save he which is of God, he hath seen the Father. Verily, verily, U say unto you, ‘He that believeth on me hath everlasting life.’ I am that bread of life. Your fathers did eat manna in the wilderness, and are dead.

This is the bread which cometh down from Heaven, that a man may eat thereof, and not die. I am the living bread which came down from Heaven. If any man eat of this bread, he shall live forever; and the bread that I will give is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world.”

Perplexed, the Jews asked among each other:

“How can this man give us his flesh to eat?”

Jesus said:

“Verily, verily, I say unto you, ‘Except ye eat the flesh of the Son of man, and drink his blood, ye have no life in you.’ Whoso eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day. For my flesh is meat indeed, and my blood is drink indeed. He that eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, dwelleth in me and I in him. As the living Father hath sent me, and I live by the Father, so he that eateth me, even he shall live by me.

This is that bread which came down from Heaven; not as your fathers did eat manna, and are dead; he that eateth of this bread shall live forever.”

Many of his followers murmured among themselves:

“This is a hard saying. Who can hear it?”

Jesus, knowing what went on in the minds of his followers, asked:

“Doth this offend you? What and if ye shall see the Son of man ascend up where he was before? It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing. The words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life. But there are some of you that believe not.”

Jesus had known from the beginning the ones who had not believed and who would betray him. He said:

“Therefore said I unto you that no man can come unto me, except it were given unto him of my Father.”

From that moment many of his followers abandoned him and no longer walked with him.

Jesus turned to the twelve and asked:

“Will ye also go away?”

Simon Peter answered him:

“Lord, to whom shall we go? Thou hast the words of eternal life. And we believe and are sure that thou art that Christ, the Son of the living God.”

Jesus answered:

“Have not I chosen you twelve, and one of you is a devil?”

He spoke of Judas Iscariot, the son of Simon, for he was the one of the twelve who later would betray Jesus.

Traditions Caused Jews To Miss Elijah And Jesus

Don C. Harris — Fri, 12 May 2023 15:00:00 -0600

Dedicate to becoming Christian. It takes time to build the character to stand. We must know and use the Scriptures as the foundation to test traditions. False doctrines must be discarded to hear the message of "The Word of God." The people of Israel missed John-the-Baptist [Elijah] and Christ because of tradition

As you go through this podcast series examine your Jesus, your Messiah, to determine if He is the Savior of the Scriptures. The anti-Christ is coming. It will take understanding to reject him.

***

Ch. 38 - Jesus Speaks of the Bread of Life

John 6:22-71

They found Jesus teaching in a synagogue in Capernaum and they said to him:

“Master, when camest thou hither?”

Jesus answered them, saying:

They said to him:

“What shall we do, that we might work the works of God?”

Jesus replied:

“This is the work of God, that ye believe on him whom he hath sent.”

Then they asked him:

“What sign showest thou then, that we may see, and believe thee? What dost thou work?

Our fathers ate manna in the desert; as it is written, ‘He gave them bread from Heaven to eat.’”

Jesus answered:

They said:

“Lord, evermore give us this bread.”

Jesus said:

The Jews murmured against him because he had said that he was the bread which had come down from Heaven. They asked:

“Is not this Jesus, the son of Joseph, whose father and mother we know? How is it then that he saith, ‘I came down from Heaven’?”

Jesus replied to them:

Perplexed, the Jews asked among each other:

“How can this man give us his flesh to eat?”

Jesus said:

This is that bread which came down from Heaven; not as your fathers did eat manna, and are dead; he that eateth of this bread shall live forever.”

Many of his followers murmured among themselves:

“This is a hard saying. Who can hear it?”

Jesus, knowing what went on in the minds of his followers, asked:

Jesus had known from the beginning the ones who had not believed and who would betray him. He said:

“Therefore said I unto you that no man can come unto me, except it were given unto him of my Father.”

From that moment many of his followers abandoned him and no longer walked with him.

Jesus turned to the twelve and asked:

“Will ye also go away?”

Simon Peter answered him:

“Lord, to whom shall we go? Thou hast the words of eternal life. And we believe and are sure that thou art that Christ, the Son of the living God.”

Jesus answered:

“Have not I chosen you twelve, and one of you is a devil?”

He spoke of Judas Iscariot, the son of Simon, for he was the one of the twelve who later would betray Jesus.

Jesus Is Not Aladdin

Don C. Harris — Fri, 05 May 2023 15:00:00 -0600

Jesus did not come to make us prosperous. He came to make us into people of character who will not perish, come what may. Listen as Jesus parallels physical concepts with spiritual concepts. Though it's not written here the often heard cry recorded in the New Testament resounds, "He who has ears to hear, let him hear." "...there is a friend sticks closer than a brother. " He wants to help.

"And all thy children shall be taught of the LORD; and great shall be the peace of thy children." Isaiah 54

***

Ch. 38 - Jesus Speaks of the Bread of Life

John 6:22-71

They found Jesus teaching in a synagogue in Capernaum and they said to him:

“Master, when camest thou hither?”

Jesus answered them, saying:

They said to him:

“What shall we do, that we might work the works of God?”

Jesus replied:

“This is the work of God, that ye believe on him whom he hath sent.”

Then they asked him:

“What sign showest thou then, that we may see, and believe thee? What dost thou work?

Our fathers ate manna in the desert; as it is written, ‘He gave them bread from Heaven to eat.’”

Jesus answered:

They said:

“Lord, evermore give us this bread.”

Jesus said:

The Jews murmured against him because he had said that he was the bread which had come down from Heaven. They asked:

“Is not this Jesus, the son of Joseph, whose father and mother we know? How is it then that he saith, ‘I came down from Heaven’?”

Jesus replied to them:

Perplexed, the Jews asked among each other:

“How can this man give us his flesh to eat?”

Jesus said:

This is that bread which came down from Heaven; not as your fathers did eat manna, and are dead; he that eateth of this bread shall live forever.”

Many of his followers murmured among themselves:

“This is a hard saying. Who can hear it?”

Jesus, knowing what went on in the minds of his followers, asked:

Jesus had known from the beginning the ones who had not believed and who would betray him. He said:

“Therefore said I unto you that no man can come unto me, except it were given unto him of my Father.”

From that moment many of his followers abandoned him and no longer walked with him.

Jesus turned to the twelve and asked:

“Will ye also go away?”

Simon Peter answered him:

“Lord, to whom shall we go? Thou hast the words of eternal life. And we believe and are sure that thou art that Christ, the Son of the living God.”

Jesus answered:

“Have not I chosen you twelve, and one of you is a devil?”

He spoke of Judas Iscariot, the son of Simon, for he was the one of the twelve who later would betray Jesus.

Our Duty Is To Send People to Jesus

Don C. Harris — Fri, 28 Apr 2023 15:00:00 -0600

There is an amazing story in the Bible. Jesus, the Son of God, left his Father and came to interact with mankind. Faith is required to believe and to figuratively step out of the boat of convention. Movies, Sunday school, and traditions lend an inconvenient familiarity in thought to the story. Imagine if you can being in the boat with the disciples, being in the crowd on the shore or standing in the distance watching the scenes in the Scriptures - not knowing "the back of the book". Jesus came to reveal the Father and to teach us His ways.

***

Ch . 37 - Jesus Walks On The Sea

Matthew 14:24-33; Mark 6:47-52; John 6:16-21

While Jesus was alone in the Mountain praying, his disciples entered a boat and started over the sea toward Capernaum. But the wind rose and lashed the sea into great waves and held up their progress.

About the fourth watch of the night Jesus came down to the shore, saw the boat, and walked upon the sea toward them.

When they saw him in the water, his disciples were troubled and said:

“It is a spirit.”

They cried out with fear.

Jesus heard them and said:

“Be of good cheer. It is I; be not afraid.”

Peter replied, saying:

“Lord, if it be thou, bid me come unto thee on the water.”

Jesus said:

“Come.”

Peter descended from the boat and walked toward Jesus on the water. When he saw that the waves were boisterous, he was afraid and began to sink. He cried out, saying:

“Lord, save me.”

Immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, caught Peter, and said to him:

“O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt?”

When the two of them entered the boat, the wind ceased. All who were on board came and worshiped Jesus, saying:

“Of a truth thou art the Son of God.”

Jesus Did Many Wonderful Things

Don C. Harris — Fri, 21 Apr 2023 15:00:00 -0600

The challenge for modern Christianity is to apply logic and consistency to our traditions. It requires bravery to examine established theological ideas and sacraments. However, to assure we worship the God of the Scriptures in accordance to the Son of God, this work is mandatory. Creeds, counsels and belief statements which require arbitrary obedience to the church over Christ creates a disconnect with the Scriptures. These false notions must be erased to make room for the doctrines Jesus came to reveal.

***

Ch . 37 - Jesus Walks On The Sea

Matthew 14:24-33; Mark 6:47-52; John 6:16-21

About the fourth watch of the night Jesus came down to the shore, saw the boat, and walked upon the sea toward them.

When they saw him in the water, his disciples were troubled and said:

“It is a spirit.”

They cried out with fear.

Jesus heard them and said:

“Be of good cheer. It is I; be not afraid.”

Peter replied, saying:

“Lord, if it be thou, bid me come unto thee on the water.”

Jesus said:

“Come.”

Peter descended from the boat and walked toward Jesus on the water. When he saw that the waves were boisterous, he was afraid and began to sink. He cried out, saying:

“Lord, save me.”

Immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, caught Peter, and said to him:

“O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt?”

When the two of them entered the boat, the wind ceased. All who were on board came and worshiped Jesus, saying:

“Of a truth thou art the Son of God.”

Incorporate Christianity into Life

Don C. Harris — Fri, 14 Apr 2023 15:00:00 -0600

It takes the revelation of the Spirit of God to understand the message of Jesus. We tend to try and simplify; to segregate “church-life” from “real life.” This segregation leads to a lukewarm Christianity. Important matters are discussed and resolved when we spend time with one another.

Proverbs 27:17

“Iron sharpens iron; so a man sharpens the countenance of his friend.”

***

Ch. 36 - Jesus Feeds Five Thousand

Matthew 14:13-23; Mark 6:30-46; Luke 9:10-17; John 6:5-15

When the apostles, whom Jesus had sent forth to spread the word, returned, they told him all that they had done and taught.

Because so many people seeking Jesus were always coming to him and his disciples, giving them not even leisure to eat, Jesus said:

“Come ye yourselves apart into a desert place, and rest a while.”

They went with Jesus privately by ship to a quiet and unpopulated place in the neighborhood of the city of Bethsaida.

The people saw them going. Many followed and others, who guessed their destination, ran afoot out of their cities and arrived before Jesus and the disciples. About five thousand men, besides women and children, came to the desolate place.

Jesus, seeing them, as sheep without a shepherd, had compassion on them, and he healed their sick and began to teach them many things.

When the day neared its end, the twelve apostles came to Jesus and said:

“Send the multitude away, that they may go into the towns and country round about, and lodge, and get victuals; for we are here in a desert place.”

Jesus replied:

“They need not depart; give ye them to eat.”

Philip, the disciple, said:

“Two hundred pennyworth of bread is not sufficient for them, that every one of them may take a little.”

Another disciple, Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, said:

“There is a lad here, which hath five barley loaves, and two small fishes. But what are they among so many?”

Jesus said:

“Bring them hither to me.”

Then he instructed his disciples to organize the crowd, saying:

“Make them sit down fifties in a company.”

Jesus took the five loaves and the two fishes, looked up to Heaven, and blessed them.

He broke the bread and gave it and the fishes to his disciples to distribute among the multitude. Everyone ate and was filled.

When all had finished eating, Jesus said:

“Gather up the fragments that remain, that nothing be lost.”

Therefore they gathered the remaining fragments and, with what was left over, filled twelve baskets. When all had seen this miracle, they said:

“This is, of a truth, that prophet that should come into the world.”

Thereupon Jesus, seeing that some among them wished to make him king, straightaway entered the boat with his disciples and crossed to the other side.

Then he went alone into a mountain to pray.

Jesus Shops His Disciples

Don C. Harris — Fri, 07 Apr 2023 15:00:00 -0600

Preach the message of repentance. Evangelism should not be asking questions in an attempt to educate or proselytize. Rather be ready to give an answer for the hope that lies in you. The gospel message is simple, but not easy. Jesus said, "Many are called, few are chosen."

***

Ch. 35 – JESUS COMMISSIONS, EMPOWERS, AND SENDS FORTH THE TWELVE DISCIPLES

JESUS went about among cities, villages, and in the country, teaching in the synagogues, preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing sicknesses, diseases, and infirmities among the people.

When he saw the great multitudes who followed after him, he was moved with compassion; because he saw them faint, and observed that they were scattered, as sheep with no shepherd.

To his disciples Jesus said:

“The harvest truly is plenteous, but the laborers are few. Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth laborers into his harvest.”

Jesus gave the power to his twelve disciples to cast out unclean spirits and heal all manner of sickness, disease, and infirmity.

As the twelve went forth, Jesus instructed them, saying:

“Go not into the way of the Gentiles. And into any city of the Samaritans enter ye not. But go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. And as ye go, preach, saying, ’The kingdom of Heaven is at hand.’ Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils. Freely ye have received, freely give. Provide neither gold, nor silver, nor brass in your purses, nor scrip for your journey, neither two coats, neither shoes, nor yet staves; for the workman is worthy of his meat. And into whatsoever city or town ye shall enter, inquire who in it is worthy; and there abide till ye go thence.

And when ye come into a house, salute it. And if the house be worthy, let your peace come upon it; but if it be not worthy, let your peace return to you. And whosoever shall not receive you, nor hear your words, when ye depart out of that house or city, shake off the dust of your feet. Verily I say unto you, ‘It shall be more tolerable for the land of Sodom and Gomorrah in the day of judgment, than for that city’.”

“Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves. Be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves. But beware of men; for they will deliver you up to the councils, and they will scourge you in their synagogues; and ye shall be brought before governors and kings for my sake, for a testimony against them and the Gentiles. But when they deliver you up, take no thought how or what ye shall speak; for it shall be given you in that same hour what ye shall speak.

For it is not ye that speak, but the Spirit of your Father which speaketh in you. And the brother shall deliver up the brother to death, and the father the child; and the children shall rise up against their parents, and cause them to be put to death. And ye shall be hated of all men for my name’s sake; but he that endureth to the end shall be saved.

But when they persecute you in this city, flee ye into another; for verily I say unto you, ‘Ye shall not have gone over the cities of Israel, till the Son of man be come.’ The disciple is not above his master, nor the servant above his lord. It is enough for the disciple that he be as his master, and the servant as his lord. If they have called the master of the house Beelzebub, how much more shall they call them of his household? Fear them not therefore; for there is nothing covered, that shall not be revealed; and hid, that shall not be known. What I tell you in darkness, that speak ye in light; and what ye hear in the ear, that preach ye upon the housetops. And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul; but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell. Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? And one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows. Whosoever therefore shall confess me before men, him will I confess also before my Father which is in Heaven. But whosoever shall deny me before my Father which is in Heaven. But whosoever shall deny me before men, him will I also deny before my Father which is in Heaven. Think not that I am come to send peace on earth. I came not to send peace, but a sword. For I am come to set a man at variance against his father, and the daughter against her mother, and the daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law. And a man’s foes shall be they of his own household. He that loveth father or mother more than me is not worthy of me. And he that loveth son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me. And he that taketh not his cross, and followeth after me, is not worthy of me. He that findeth his life shall lose it; and he that loseth his life for my sake shall find it.

“He that receiveth you receiveth me, and he that receiveth me receiveth him that sent me. He that receiveth a prophet in the name of a prophet shall receive a prophet’s reward; and he that receiveth a righteous man in the name of a righteous man shall receive a righteous man’s reward. And whosoever shall give to drink unto one of these little ones a cup of cold water only in the name of a disciple, verily I say unto you, he shall in no wise lose his reward.”

The disciples went forth and preached that men should repent. They cast out many devils, anointed with oil many who were sick, and healed them.

Jesus also went out, preaching and teaching.

***

Scriptures:

Matthew 9:35-38, 10:1-42, 11;1; Mark 6:7-13; Luke 9:1-6

Commissioned to Preach Change

Don C. Harris — Fri, 31 Mar 2023 15:00:00 -0600

"Hear ye! Hear ye! The Kingdom of God is at hand."

The message of Jesus was not popular with religious leaders; the same message preached by his disciples will not be popular either. Change is difficult. Listen closely to the instructions of Jesus.

***

Ch. 35 – JESUS COMMISSIONS, EMPOWERS, AND SENDS FORTH THE TWELVE DISCIPLES

JESUS went about among cities, villages, and in the country, teaching in the synagogues, preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing sicknesses, diseases, and infirmities among the people.

When he saw the great multitudes who followed after him, he was moved with compassion; because he saw them faint, and observed that they were scattered, as sheep with no shepherd.

To his disciples Jesus said:

“The harvest truly is plenteous, but the laborers are few. Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth laborers into his harvest.”

Jesus gave the power to his twelve disciples to cast out unclean spirits and heal all manner of sickness, disease, and infirmity.

As the twelve went forth, Jesus instructed them, saying:

The disciples went forth and preached that men should repent. They cast out many devils, anointed with oil many who were sick, and healed them.

Jesus also went out, preaching and teaching.

***

Scriptures:

Matthew 9:35-38, 10:1-42, 11;1; Mark 6:7-13; Luke 9:1-6

The Words of Jesus Correct

Don C. Harris — Fri, 24 Mar 2023 15:00:00 -0600

The Words of Jesus make demands for our perfection. We expect ranking in tournaments or levels in video games but we tend to apply a magical interpretation to Christianity which ignores the instructions given by Christ. The mystery of the Kingdom of God is revealed as we obey; we are forgiven as we forgive; we are saved as we repent (change). We expect challenges in life. We should expect challenges in the Kingdom of God.

***

Ch. 35 – JESUS COMMISSIONS, EMPOWERS, AND SENDS FORTH THE TWELVE DISCIPLES

JESUS went about among cities, villages, and in the country, teaching in the synagogues, preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing sicknesses, diseases, and infirmities among the people.

When he saw the great multitudes who followed after him, he was moved with compassion; because he saw them faint, and observed that they were scattered, as sheep with no shepherd.

To his disciples Jesus said:

“The harvest truly is plenteous, but the laborers are few. Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth laborers into his harvest.”

Jesus gave the power to his twelve disciples to cast out unclean spirits and heal all manner of sickness, disease, and infirmity.

As the twelve went forth, Jesus instructed them, saying:

The disciples went forth and preached that men should repent. They cast out many devils, anointed with oil many who were sick, and healed them.

Jesus also went out, preaching and teaching.

***

Scriptures:

Matthew 9:35-38, 10:1-42, 11;1; Mark 6:7-13; Luke 9:1-6

If You Had Faith

Don C. Harris — Fri, 17 Mar 2023 15:00:00 -0600

A change in direction happens in an instant; however, arriving at the destination you desire requires action. Daily action. It takes time to overcome the mess of living in error for years. Be patient. Keep the commandments. Never violate your conscience. Take time everyday to hear the voice of God. The discipline of change may be difficult, embrace it; knowing a relationship with God is worth every sacrifice you make. Lay down your life. In the Scriptures Jesus says, “Deny yourself, take up your cross and follow me.”

***

Ch 34. - JESUS HEALS A LONG-SUFFERING WOMAN

AS JESUS had passed along on his way to the house of Jairus, great crowds had thronged about him.

Among the crowd was a woman who had suffered twelve years from a hemorrhage. Though she had spent all her money on physicians, none had cured her; instead, she had grown worse. She thought to herself:

"If I may but touch his garment, I shall be healed."

She pressed through the throng, came up behind Jesus and touched his garment. Immediately the flow of blood stopped, and she felt in her body that she was completely cured. Jesus turned and said:

"Who touched me?"

His disciples replied:

"Master, the multitude throng thee and press thee, and sayest thou, 'Who touched me?'"

But Jesus said:

"Somebody hath touched me, for I perceive that virtue is gone out of me."

The woman knew that her act had not gone unnoticed. She came trembling up to Jesus and fell down before him. She declared to him before all the people why she had touched his garment and how she had been healed immediately.

Jesus said to her:

"Daughter, be of good comfort. Thy faith hath made thee whole. Go in peace."

***

Scriptures:

Matthew 9:20-22; Mark 5:25-34; Luke 8:43-48

Faith Exposed By Action

Don C. Harris — Fri, 10 Mar 2023 15:00:00 -0600

Excerpted Scriptures formulated into "if, then" statements can hide the message Jesus came to reveal. It's the story of the gospel. We are privileged to have the testimonies of others in the Bible. We can read the stories of those who succeeded in their walk of faith and of others. We are called to work out our own salvation with fear and trembling. We can say we believe and we are Christians; however, what we truly believe is revealed by what we do.

***

Ch 34. - JESUS HEALS A LONG-SUFFERING WOMAN

AS JESUS had passed along on his way to the house of Jairus, great crowds had thronged about him.

"If I may but touch his garment, I shall be healed."

She pressed through the throng, came up behind Jesus and touched his garment. Immediately the flow of blood stopped, and she felt in her body that she was completely cured. Jesus turned and said:

"Who touched me?"

His disciples replied:

"Master, the multitude throng thee and press thee, and sayest thou, 'Who touched me?'"

But Jesus said:

"Somebody hath touched me, for I perceive that virtue is gone out of me."

Jesus said to her:

"Daughter, be of good comfort. Thy faith hath made thee whole. Go in peace."

***

Scriptures:

Matthew 9:20-22; Mark 5:25-34; Luke 8:43-48

DCH.TRIDeveloper@gmail.com

Jesus Spoke With Authority

Don C. Harris — Fri, 03 Mar 2023 15:00:00 -0600

Jesus is not like us. We must take caution to mold our lives after Jesus; not mold Jesus after us. Examine the mind of Christ through his words and actions. Prophets were given for the time when communication with God was limited. Jesus instructed, "Keep my commandments and my Father and I will teach you from the inside." No hierarchy in the Kingdom of God.

***

Ch. 33 - JESUS RAISES JAIRUS' DAUGHTER

JAIRUS, a ruler of the synagogue, came and threw himself at Jesus' feet. He besought his aid, saying:

"My little daughter, who is about twelve years old, lieth at the point of death. I pray thee, come and lay thy hands on her, that she may be healed; and she shall live."

Jesus went with him, followed by many people. While on their was a person came to Jairus, saying:

"Thy daughter is dead. Trouble not the Master."

Jesus heard the message and said to Jairus:

"Fear not; believe only, and she shall be made whole."

When they arrived at the house, Jesus permitted none to enter with him except Peter, James, John, and the parents of the child.

In the house many were weeping and wailing. Jesus said:

"Why make ye this ado, and weep? The damsel is not dead, but sleepeth."

They laughed at him scornfully, knowing that the girl was dead. Jesus put them all out.

Jesus took the hand of the girl and said:

"Maid, arise."

Straightway the girl arose. The parents were astonished. Jesus instructed them to give the maiden something to eat, and he ordered them to tell no one what had happened.

But his fame spread throughout the land.

***

Scriptures:

Ch. 33 Matthew 9:18, 19, 23-26; Mark 5:22-24, 35-43; Luke 8:41, 42, 49-56

The Identity of Jesus Is A Matter of Revelation

Don C. Harris — Fri, 24 Feb 2023 15:00:00 -0600

Tradition is not truth. Examine "Who told you that." Historical Jesus, Jesus of Nazareth, Jesus Son of God, "All-knowing, all-powerful, all-present" - Is that true? Our job as Christians is not to evangelize through education and/or declarative statements. Jesus says, "My church is built on revelation." Our witness is our life. We must strive to meet the expectations of Jesus. Our hands are His hands in the earth. Be honest. Be faithful.

***

Ch. 32 - JESUS HEALS A GADARENE

JESUS AND HIS disciples came to the other side of the Sea of Galilee to the country of the Gadarenes.

As soon as Jesus was on the shore a man came to meet him, one who had been possessed of devils for a long time. He wore no clothes, and abode in no house, but in the tombs.

No one could bind this man, not even with chains. It had often been tried, but he had broken the chains. No man could tame him.

He spent his time both night and day in the mountains and tombs --crying loudly, and madly cutting himself with stones.

When he saw Jesus he ran and fell down before him, and in a loud voice said:

"What have I to do with thee, Jesus, thou Son of the most high God? I adjure thee by God, that thou torment me not."

Jesus spoke, saying:

"Come out of the man, thou unclean spirit."

Then, to the man, Jesus said:

"What is thy name?"

The man answered:

"My name is Legion; for we are many."

And he asked Jesus not to send them out of the country.

Near by a large herd of swine was feeding.

The unclean spirits beseeched Jesus, saying:

"Send us into the swine, that we may enter into them."

Jesus gave them permission; the unclean spirits entered the swine; and the entire herd ran violently down a steep place into the sea and drowned.

The herdsmen fled and told what they had seen. Many came to see Jesus and found the demoniac, clothed and in his right mind, sitting at the feet of Jesus.

Those who had seen Jesus drive the unclean spirits from the man told the latest arrivals how the man had been cleansed and made sane.

The Gadarenes were afraid and asked Jesus to leave their country. He started to enter his boat, when the man who had been cleansed of the unclean spirits asked to go with him.

Jesus would not permit it, but said to the man,

"Go hove to thy friends, and tell them how great things the Lord hath done for thee, and hath had compassion on thee."

He who was healed departed and told in Decapolis the great things Jesus had done for him.

All men marveled.

***

Scriptures:

Matthew 8:28-34; Mark 5:1; Luke 8:26-39

A Different Outcome Is Possible

Don C. Harris — Fri, 17 Feb 2023 15:00:00 -0600

The reward of no effort is atrophy. This is true physically, mentally and spiritually. The result of effort in exercise is strength; in relationships is sustainability; and in obedience is regeneration. We must strive to achieve the promises offered by God. The opportunity is not something we can earn but our effort is required to bring the promises to completion. Actions and inaction bring consequences. Jesus asked this question, "Why do you call me LORD and not do what I say?" Jesus did his part to open the door; we must do our part by entering in. Spiritual victories in daily life require change.

***

Ch. 32 - JESUS HEALS A GADARENE

JESUS AND HIS disciples came to the other side of the Sea of Galilee to the country of the Gadarenes.

As soon as Jesus was on the shore a man came to meet him, one who had been possessed of devils for a long time. He wore no clothes, and abode in no house, but in the tombs.

No one could bind this man, not even with chains. It had often been tried, but he had broken the chains. No man could tame him.

He spent his time both night and day in the mountains and tombs --crying loudly, and madly cutting himself with stones.

When he saw Jesus he ran and fell down before him, and in a loud voice said:

"What have I to do with thee, Jesus, thou Son of the most high God? I adjure thee by God, that thou torment me not."

Jesus spoke, saying:

"Come out of the man, thou unclean spirit."

Then, to the man, Jesus said:

"What is thy name?"

The man answered:

"My name is Legion; for we are many."

And he asked Jesus not to send them out of the country.

Near by a large herd of swine was feeding.

The unclean spirits beseeched Jesus, saying:

"Send us into the swine, that we may enter into them."

Jesus gave them permission; the unclean spirits entered the swine; and the entire herd ran violently down a steep place into the sea and drowned.

The herdsmen fled and told what they had seen. Many came to see Jesus and found the demoniac, clothed and in his right mind, sitting at the feet of Jesus.

Those who had seen Jesus drive the unclean spirits from the man told the latest arrivals how the man had been cleansed and made sane.

The Gadarenes were afraid and asked Jesus to leave their country. He started to enter his boat, when the man who had been cleansed of the unclean spirits asked to go with him.

Jesus would not permit it, but said to the man,

"Go hove to thy friends, and tell them how great things the Lord hath done for thee, and hath had compassion on thee."

He who was healed departed and told in Decapolis the great things Jesus had done for him.

All men marveled.

***

Scriptures: Matthew 8:28-34; Mark 5:1; Luke 8:26-39

Faith of Jesus Christ

Don C. Harris — Fri, 10 Feb 2023 15:00:00 -0600

Revelation 14 - "Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus."

The Spirit of God has not ceased to speak to His people since the Voice of God walked with Adam in the Garden of Eden. The Scriptures record some of these conversations. God spoke to the people through Moses, through the Prophets, and through His Son (the Word made flesh). Jesus continued this communication to our day with the instruction, "Keep my commandments and the Father and I will come inside and lead and guide you - from the inside." Do you have faith?

***

Ch. 31 - JESUS STILLS THE STORM

ONE DAY Jesus said to his disciples:

"Let us go over unto the other side of the lake."

They launched forth in a ship and other little ships sailed with them. There arose a great storm which lashed the waves and beat them so so high that they broke over the ship. The boat rapidly filled with water while Jesus slept on a pillow in the stern.

As they were in great peril, his disciples wakened Jesus, saying:

"Lord, save us! We perish!"

Jesus arose, saying:

"Why are ye fearful, O ye of little faith?"

Then Jesus rebuked the winds and said to the sea:

"Peace, be still."

The wind ceased and the sea grew calm. Jesus said to his disciples:

"Why are ye fearful? Have ye not yet faith?"

The disciples were afraid and wondering. They said to one another:

"What manner of man is is this? For he commands even the winds and the sea, and they obey him.

***

Scriptures:

Matthew 8:18, 23-27; Mark 4:35-41; Luke 8:22-25

The Uninspired Page in the Bible

Don C. Harris — Fri, 03 Feb 2023 15:00:00 -0600

Jesus came to reveal His Father, not to replace Him; and to restore communication to an internal, individual matter. No longer would a physical temple or a Levitical priesthood be required for people to meet with God. The plan of Jesus was to put his commandments into our heart. Our obedience (keeping the commandments) opens communication with the Spirit of God. Man is where the Spirit of God desires to reside. Jesus Christ, our High Priest, always obeyed His Father – we should do the same.

***

Ch. 30 - Jesus Teaches the Kingdom in Parables

A NET (Matt 13:47-53)

Jesus likened the kingdom of Heaven to a net, saying:

“Again, the kingdom of Heaven is like unto a net, that was cast into the sea, and gathered of every kind—which, when it was full, they drew to shore, and sat down, and gathered the good into vessels, but cast the bad away.

So shall it be at the end of the world. The angels shall come forth, and sever the wicked from among the just, and shall cast them into the furnace of fire. There shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth.”

Then Jesus said:

“Have ye understood all these things?”

The people answered:

“Yes, Lord.”

Jesus said to them:

“Therefore every scribe which is instructed unto the kingdom of Heaven is like unto a man that is a householder, which bringeth forth out of his treasure things new and old.”

Pearl of Great Price

Don C. Harris — Fri, 27 Jan 2023 15:00:00 -0600

Effort is required to obtain the salvation we seek. We should expect opposition. Our obligation is to dispense with false doctrines to make room for the doctrine of Jesus Christ. The exercise of power [grace] that makes the Christian super-human in this world should not give us a false notion that we are righteous enough to receive such power, or even loved enough to receive the privilege, but we should see it as our duty to exercise it. Our obedience opens the communication of daily instruction. In this way, we work hand-in-hand with our God on His redemption plan.

***

Ch. 30 - Jesus Teaches the Kingdom in Parables

THE COSTLY PEARL (Matt. 13:45, 46)

Jesus told another parable to teach his listeners what the kingdom of Heaven is. He said:

“Again, he kingdom of Heaven is like unto a merchant man, seeking goodly pearls—who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had, as bought it.”

A NET (Matt 13:47-53)

Jesus likened the kingdom of Heaven to a net, saying:

Then Jesus said:

“Have ye understood all these things?”

The people answered:

“Yes, Lord.”

Jesus said to them:

“Therefore every scribe which is instructed unto the kingdom of Heaven is like unto a man that is a householder, which bringeth forth out of his treasure things new and old.”

Jesus Struggles To Communicate The Kingdom of God

Don C. Harris — Fri, 20 Jan 2023 15:00:00 -0600

The barrier in communication is not linguistic, Jesus spoke the languages of His day. The barrier is our ability to understand. We are handicapped by our sins, the sins of society, and the corruption in modern Christianity. The good news is the way is still open, understanding still obtainable, communication still possible.

***

Ch. 30 - Jesus Teaches the Kingdom in Parables

A MUSTARD SEED (Matt. 13:31, 32; Mark 4:30-32; Luke 13:18, 19)

Then Jesus, speaking another parable, likened the kingdom of God to a mustard seed that grows from a small grain into a large plant:

“Whereunto shall we liken the kingdom of God? Or with what comparison shall we compare it? It is like a grain of mustard seed, which, when it is sown in the earth, is less than all the seeds that be in the earth. But when it is sown, it growth up, and becometh greater than all hers, and shooteth out great branches; so that the fowls of the air may lodge under the shadow of it.”

LEAVEN (Matt. 13:33; Luke 13:20, 21)

Then Jesus compared the kingdom of Heaven with leaven, saying:

“The kingdom of Heaven is like unto leaven, which a woman took, and hid in three measures of meal, till the whole was leavened.”

THE HIDDEN TREASURE (Matt. 13:44)

Jesus spoke another parable, likening the kingdom of Heaven to a hidden treasure. He said:

“Again, the kingdom of Heaven is like unto treasure hid in a field-which when a man hath found, he hideth, and for joy thereof goeth and selleth all that he hath, and buyeth that field.”

THE COSTLY PEARL (Matt. 13:45, 46)

Jesus told another parable to teach his listeners what the kingdom of Heaven is. He said:

“Again, he kingdom of Heaven is like unto a merchant man, seeking goodly pearls—who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had, as bought it.”

A NET (Matt 13:47-53)

Jesus likened the kingdom of Heaven to a net, saying:

Then Jesus said:

“Have ye understood all these things?”

The people answered:

“Yes, Lord.”

Jesus said to them:

“Therefore every scribe which is instructed unto the kingdom of Heaven is like unto a man that is a householder, which bringeth forth out of his treasure things new and old.”

What Did Jesus Believe

Don C. Harris — Fri, 13 Jan 2023 15:00:00 -0600

The goal is to reinforce Christianity with the wisdom and words of Jesus. Examine His life, His friends, and His relationship with His father as recorded in the four gospels of the Scriptures. These written accounts are a gift from God; called to the remembrance of the apostles. Here's what Jesus said,

"...If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him. He that loveth me not keeps not my sayings: and the word which ye hear is not mine, but the Father's which sent me. These things have I spoken unto you, being yet present with you. But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.

Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. Ye have heard how I said unto you, I go away, and come again unto you. If ye loved me, ye would rejoice, because I said, I go unto the Father: for my Father is greater than I. And now I have told you before it come to pass, that, when it is come to pass, ye might believe." John 14

***

Ch. 30 - Jesus Teaches the Kingdom in Parables

THE SEED (Mark 4:36-29)

Jesus spoke another parable, saying:

“So is the kingdom of God, as if a man should cast seed into the ground; and should sleep, and rise night and day, and the seed should spring and grow up, he knoweth not how. For the earth bringeth forth fruit of herself; first the blade, then the ear, after that the full corn in the ear. But when the fruit is brought forth, immediately he putteth in the sickle, because the harvest is come.”

A MUSTARD SEED (Matt. 13:31, 32; Mark 4:30-32; Luke 13:18, 19)

Then Jesus, speaking another parable, likened the kingdom of God to a mustard seed that grows from a small grain into a large plant:

LEAVEN (Matt. 13:33; Luke 13:20, 21)

Then Jesus compared the kingdom of Heaven with leaven, saying:

“The kingdom of Heaven is like unto leaven, which a woman took, and hid in three measures of meal, till the whole was leavened.”

THE HIDDEN TREASURE (Matt. 13:44)

Jesus spoke another parable, likening the kingdom of Heaven to a hidden treasure. He said:

“Again, the kingdom of Heaven is like unto treasure hid in a field-which when a man hath found, he hideth, and for joy thereof goeth and selleth all that he hath, and buyeth that field.”

THE COSTLY PEARL (Matt. 13:45, 46)

Jesus told another parable to teach his listeners what the kingdom of Heaven is. He said:

“Again, he kingdom of Heaven is like unto a merchant man, seeking goodly pearls—who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had, as bought it.”

A NET (Matt 13:47-53)

Jesus likened the kingdom of Heaven to a net, saying:

Then Jesus said:

“Have ye understood all these things?”

The people answered:

“Yes, Lord.”

Jesus said to them:

“Therefore every scribe which is instructed unto the kingdom of Heaven is like unto a man that is a householder, which bringeth forth out of his treasure things new and old.”

Nourishment For The Seed

Don C. Harris — Fri, 06 Jan 2023 15:00:00 -0600

It is our privilege and responsibility to participate in our salvation. We must provide the environment which allows the seed of Christ to grow to maturity. Being born again is not instant. The forgiveness we receive must be reciprocated in all our relationships. The exercise of keeping the commandments lets God know we are serious about going His way. Taking time to listen every day builds the discipline we need to be servants to our Lord. We are not entering the democracy of God. We are entering a kingdom. We have a Lord, if we obey him.

***

Ch. 30 - Jesus Teaches the Kingdom in Parables

THE SEED (Mark 4:36-29)

Jesus spoke another parable, saying:

A MUSTARD SEED (Matt. 13:31, 32; Mark 4:30-32; Luke 13:18, 19)

Then Jesus, speaking another parable, likened the kingdom of God to a mustard seed that grows from a small grain into a large plant:

LEAVEN (Matt. 13:33; Luke 13:20, 21)

Then Jesus compared the kingdom of Heaven with leaven, saying:

“The kingdom of Heaven is like unto leaven, which a woman took, and hid in three measures of meal, till the whole was leavened.”

THE HIDDEN TREASURE (Matt. 13:44)

Jesus spoke another parable, likening the kingdom of Heaven to a hidden treasure. He said:

“Again, the kingdom of Heaven is like unto treasure hid in a field-which when a man hath found, he hideth, and for joy thereof goeth and selleth all that he hath, and buyeth that field.”

THE COSTLY PEARL (Matt. 13:45, 46)

Jesus told another parable to teach his listeners what the kingdom of Heaven is. He said:

“Again, he kingdom of Heaven is like unto a merchant man, seeking goodly pearls—who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had, as bought it.”

A NET (Matt 13:47-53)

Jesus likened the kingdom of Heaven to a net, saying:

Then Jesus said:

“Have ye understood all these things?”

The people answered:

“Yes, Lord.”

Jesus said to them:

“Therefore every scribe which is instructed unto the kingdom of Heaven is like unto a man that is a householder, which bringeth forth out of his treasure things new and old.”

Seed Comes Up - We Know Not How

Don C. Harris — Fri, 30 Dec 2022 15:00:00 -0600

Jesus did not come to condemn the world; the world was already condemned. He came to save us; however, our effort is required. Faith, obedience and trust are required. God will not prove Himself to us. Obedience and trust are the evidence of faith. Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.

***

Ch. 30 - Jesus Teaches the Kingdom in Parables

THE SEED (Mark 4:36-29)

Jesus spoke another parable, saying:

A MUSTARD SEED (Matt. 13:31, 32; Mark 4:30-32; Luke 13:18, 19)

Then Jesus, speaking another parable, likened the kingdom of God to a mustard seed that grows from a small grain into a large plant:

LEAVEN (Matt. 13:33; Luke 13:20, 21)

Then Jesus compared the kingdom of Heaven with leaven, saying:

“The kingdom of Heaven is like unto leaven, which a woman took, and hid in three measures of meal, till the whole was leavened.”

THE HIDDEN TREASURE (Matt. 13:44)

Jesus spoke another parable, likening the kingdom of Heaven to a hidden treasure. He said:

“Again, the kingdom of Heaven is like unto treasure hid in a field-which when a man hath found, he hideth, and for joy thereof goeth and selleth all that he hath, and buyeth that field.”

THE COSTLY PEARL (Matt. 13:45, 46)

Jesus told another parable to teach his listeners what the kingdom of Heaven is. He said:

“Again, he kingdom of Heaven is like unto a merchant man, seeking goodly pearls—who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had, as bought it.”

A NET (Matt 13:47-53)

Jesus likened the kingdom of Heaven to a net, saying:

Then Jesus said:

“Have ye understood all these things?”

The people answered:

“Yes, Lord.”

Jesus said to them:

“Therefore every scribe which is instructed unto the kingdom of Heaven is like unto a man that is a householder, which bringeth forth out of his treasure things new and old.”

Declare Unto Us This Parable

Don C. Harris — Fri, 23 Dec 2022 15:00:00 -0600

We don't know what we don't know. At least we should know there are things we don't know. To have the instruction of the Spirit of God, we are required to keep the commandments, to never violate our conscience, and to take time every day in meditation to hear.

"He that hath ears to hear, let him hear."

***

Ch. 30 - Jesus Teaches the Kingdom in Parables

THE TARES (WEEDS) (Matt. 13:24-30; 36-43)

THEN JESUS told another parable, saying:

“The kingdom of heaven is likened unto a man which sowed good seed in his field. But while men slept, his enemy came and sowed tares among the wheat, and went his way. But when the blade was sprung up, and brought forth fruit, then appeared the tares also. So the servants of the householder came and said unto him, ‘Sir, didst not thou sow good seed in thy field? from whence then hath it tares?’ He said unto them, ‘An enemy hath done this.’ The servants said unto him, ‘Wilt thou then that we go and gather them up?’ But he said, ‘Nay; lest while ye gather up the tares, ye root up also the wheat with them. Let both grow together until the harvest: and in the time of harvest I will say to the reapers, “Gather ye together first the tares, and bind them in bundles to burn them: but gather the wheat into my barn.”’”

Later on, after the multitude had been sent away and Jesus had gone into the house, his disciples came to him, saying:

“Declare unto us the parable of the tares of the field.”

Jesus answered them, saying:

“He that soweth the good seed is the Son of many. The field is the world; the good seed are the children of the kingdom; but the tares are the children of the wicked one. The enemy that sowed them is the devil; the harvest is the end of the world; and the reapers are the angels. As therefore the tares are gathered and burned in the fire, so shall it be in the end of the world. The Son of man shall send forth his angels, and they shall gather out of his kingdom all things that offend, and them which do iniquity; and shall cast them into a furnace of fire. There shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth. Then shall the righteous shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father. Who hath ears to hear, let him hear.”

THE SEED (Mark 4:36-29)

Jesus spoke another parable, saying:

A MUSTARD SEED (Matt. 13:31, 32; Mark 4:30-32; Luke 13:18, 19)

Then Jesus, speaking another parable, likened the kingdom of God to a mustard seed that grows from a small grain into a large plant:

LEAVEN (Matt. 13:33; Luke 13:20, 21)

Then Jesus compared the kingdom of Heaven with leaven, saying:

“The kingdom of Heaven is like unto leaven, which a woman took, and hid in three measures of meal, till the whole was leavened.”

THE HIDDEN TREASURE (Matt. 13:44)

Jesus spoke another parable, likening the kingdom of Heaven to a hidden treasure. He said:

“Again, the kingdom of Heaven is like unto treasure hid in a field-which when a man hath found, he hideth, and for joy thereof goeth and selleth all that he hath, and buyeth that field.”

THE COSTLY PEARL (Matt. 13:45, 46)

Jesus told another parable to teach his listeners what the kingdom of Heaven is. He said:

“Again, he kingdom of Heaven is like unto a merchant man, seeking goodly pearls—who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had, as bought it.”

A NET (Matt 13:47-53)

Jesus likened the kingdom of Heaven to a net, saying:

Then Jesus said:

“Have ye understood all these things?”

The people answered:

“Yes, Lord.”

Jesus said to them:

“Therefore every scribe which is instructed unto the kingdom of Heaven is like unto a man that is a householder, which bringeth forth out of his treasure things new and old.”

A Man Sowed Good Seed

Don C. Harris — Fri, 16 Dec 2022 15:00:00 -0600

If what you believe is not true, do you want to know it? We have established conventional wisdom and answers that may not coincide with the responses of Jesus. Hold your beliefs in an open hand. The Spirit of God may reveal surprising details that will change our opinions. Commit to a longer-view when judging a present condition. Some circumstances are within our ability to change. Some things will require the intervention of God. The removal of our enemies will be difficult for us. Trust Him.

***

Ch. 30 - Jesus Teaches the Kingdom in Parables

THE TARES (WEEDS) Matt. 13:24-30; 36-43

THEN JESUS told another parable, saying:

Later on, after the multitude had been sent away and Jesus had gone into the house, his disciples came to him, saying:

“Declare unto us the parable of the tares of the field.”

Jesus answered them, saying:

THE SEED (Mark 4:36-29)

Jesus spoke another parable, saying:

A MUSTARD SEED (Matt. 13:31, 32; Mark 4:30-32; Luke 13:18, 19)

Then Jesus, speaking another parable, likened the kingdom of God to a mustard seed that grows from a small grain into a large plant:

LEAVEN (Matt. 13:33; Luke 13:20, 21)

Then Jesus compared the kingdom of Heaven with leaven, saying:

“The kingdom of Heaven is like unto leaven, which a woman took, and hid in three measures of meal, till the whole was leavened.”

THE HIDDEN TREASURE (Matt. 13:44)

Jesus spoke another parable, likening the kingdom of Heaven to a hidden treasure. He said:

“Again, the kingdom of Heaven is like unto treasure hid in a field-which when a man hath found, he hideth, and for joy thereof goeth and selleth all that he hath, and buyeth that field.”

THE COSTLY PEARL (Matt. 13:45, 46)

Jesus told another parable to teach his listeners what the kingdom of Heaven is. He said:

“Again, he kingdom of Heaven is like unto a merchant man, seeking goodly pearls—who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had, as bought it.”

A NET (Matt 13:47-53)

Jesus likened the kingdom of Heaven to a net, saying:

Then Jesus said:

“Have ye understood all these things?”

The people answered:

“Yes, Lord.”

Jesus said to them:

“Therefore every scribe which is instructed unto the kingdom of Heaven is like unto a man that is a householder, which bringeth forth out of his treasure things new and old.”

Listen For The Word of God As You Read The Scriptures

Don C. Harris — Fri, 09 Dec 2022 15:00:00 -0600

"...Why speakest thou unto them in parables? He answered and said unto them, Because it is given unto you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it is not given."

Things have not always been the way they are now. The world was created good. Bad things happen, expect it. Don't look for someone to blame. Some actions are required to open the doors of communication:

1) Keep the 10 Commandments.

2) Never violate your conscience.

3) Spend 20 minutes in silence every day to hear from God.

***

Ch. 30 - Jesus Teaches the Kingdom in Parables

The Tares (Weeds) (Matt. 13:24-30; 36-43)

THEN JESUS told another parable, saying:

Later on, after the multitude had been sent away and Jesus had gone into the house, his disciples came to him, saying:

“Declare unto us the parable of the tares of the field.”

Jesus answered them, saying:

THE SEED (Mark 4:36-29)

Jesus spoke another parable, saying:

A MUSTARD SEED (Matt. 13:31, 32; Mark 4:30-32; Luke 13:18, 19)

Then Jesus, speaking another parable, likened the kingdom of God to a mustard seed that grows from a small grain into a large plant:

LEAVEN (Matt. 13:33; Luke 13:20, 21)

Then Jesus compared the kingdom of Heaven with leaven, saying:

“The kingdom of Heaven is like unto leaven, which a woman took, and hid in three measures of meal, till the whole was leavened.”

THE HIDDEN TREASURE (Matt. 13:44)

Jesus spoke another parable, likening the kingdom of Heaven to a hidden treasure. He said:

“Again, the kingdom of Heaven is like unto treasure hid in a field-which when a man hath found, he hideth, and for joy thereof goeth and selleth all that he hath, and buyeth that field.”

THE COSTLY PEARL (Matt. 13:45, 46)

Jesus told another parable to teach his listeners what the kingdom of Heaven is. He said:

“Again, he kingdom of Heaven is like unto a merchant man, seeking goodly pearls—who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had, as bought it.”

A NET (Matt 13:47-53)

Jesus likened the kingdom of Heaven to a net, saying:

Then Jesus said:

“Have ye understood all these things?”

The people answered:

“Yes, Lord.”

Jesus said to them:

“Therefore every scribe which is instructed unto the kingdom of Heaven is like unto a man that is a householder, which bringeth forth out of his treasure things new and old.”

Starting Over With The Red Words

Don C. Harris — Fri, 02 Dec 2022 15:00:00 -0600

Jesus came to heal the rift between God and man. However, much of modern Christianity is based in paganism and tradition. When it comes to Christianity, the Scriptures often reveal a different view of God. For example, consider how many times this occurs when you read the Bible, Jesus says, "don't". We do. Jesus says "do". We don't. It is worthwhile to examine our actions and beliefs in the light of Scripture.

***

Ch. 30 - Jesus Teaches the Kingdom in Parables

The Tares (Weeds) Matt. 13:24-30; 36-43

THEN JESUS told another parable, saying:

Later on, after the multitude had been sent away and Jesus had gone into the house, his disciples came to him, saying:

“Declare unto us the parable of the tares of the field.”

Jesus answered them, saying:

THE SEED (Mark 4:36-29)

Jesus spoke another parable, saying:

A MUSTARD SEED (Matt. 13:31, 32; Mark 4:30-32; Luke 13:18, 19)

Then Jesus, speaking another parable, likened the kingdom of God to a mustard seed that grows from a small grain into a large plant:

LEAVEN (Matt. 13:33; Luke 13:20, 21)

Then Jesus compared the kingdom of Heaven with leaven, saying:

“The kingdom of Heaven is like unto leaven, which a woman took, and hid in three measures of meal, till the whole was leavened.”

THE HIDDEN TREASURE (Matt. 13:44)

Jesus spoke another parable, likening the kingdom of Heaven to a hidden treasure. He said:

“Again, the kingdom of Heaven is like unto treasure hid in a field-which when a man hath found, he hideth, and for joy thereof goeth and selleth all that he hath, and buyeth that field.”

THE COSTLY PEARL (Matt. 13:45, 46)

Jesus told another parable to teach his listeners what the kingdom of Heaven is. He said:

“Again, he kingdom of Heaven is like unto a merchant man, seeking goodly pearls—who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had, as bought it.”

A NET (Matt 13:47-53)

Jesus likened the kingdom of Heaven to a net, saying:

Then Jesus said:

“Have ye understood all these things?”

The people answered:

“Yes, Lord.”

Jesus said to them:

“Therefore every scribe which is instructed unto the kingdom of Heaven is like unto a man that is a householder, which bringeth forth out of his treasure things new and old.”

Hold Your Beliefs In An Open Hand

Don C. Harris — Fri, 25 Nov 2022 15:00:00 -0600

One and done attitudes have harmed personal development and perfection. We do not inherit the characteristics of Christ via osmosis or via church attendance. Nor is there any instantaneous occurrence, other than the change from pursuing our way to going God's way (repentance). Our salvation and our perfection take place over time. We are required to participate in this process through obedience. Keep the commandments; never violate your conscience and take time every day to hear the voice of God. Our walk with God is accomplished by revelation, not education. The Scriptures contain valuable insights and lessons; not to memorize, but to encourage us and provide witnesses of other relationships with God.

***

Ch. 30 - Jesus Teaches the Kingdom in Parables

The Tares (Weeds) Matt. 13:24-30; 36-43

THEN JESUS told another parable, saying:

Later on, after the multitude had been sent away and Jesus had gone into the house, his disciples came to him, saying:

“Declare unto us the parable of the tares of the field.”

Jesus answered them, saying:

THE SEED (Mark 4:36-29)

Jesus spoke another parable, saying:

A MUSTARD SEED (Matt. 13:31, 32; Mark 4:30-32; Luke 13:18, 19)

Then Jesus, speaking another parable, likened the kingdom of God to a mustard seed that grows from a small grain into a large plant:

LEAVEN (Matt. 13:33; Luke 13:20, 21)

Then Jesus compared the kingdom of Heaven with leaven, saying:

“The kingdom of Heaven is like unto leaven, which a woman took, and hid in three measures of meal, till the whole was leavened.”

THE HIDDEN TREASURE (Matt. 13:44)

Jesus spoke another parable, likening the kingdom of Heaven to a hidden treasure. He said:

“Again, the kingdom of Heaven is like unto treasure hid in a field-which when a man hath found, he hideth, and for joy thereof goeth and selleth all that he hath, and buyeth that field.”

THE COSTLY PEARL (Matt. 13:45, 46)

Jesus told another parable to teach his listeners what the kingdom of Heaven is. He said:

“Again, he kingdom of Heaven is like unto a merchant man, seeking goodly pearls—who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had, as bought it.”

A NET (Matt 13:47-53)

Jesus likened the kingdom of Heaven to a net, saying:

Then Jesus said:

“Have ye understood all these things?”

The people answered:

“Yes, Lord.”

Jesus said to them:

“Therefore every scribe which is instructed unto the kingdom of Heaven is like unto a man that is a householder, which bringeth forth out of his treasure things new and old.”

Politics And Religion Should Be Discussed

Don C. Harris — Fri, 18 Nov 2022 15:00:00 -0600

"What you hear..." is to be considered, especially when you begin your Christian walk. But, there is another harbinger to be considered as well, "Take heed how you hear." How-we-hear is a mystery. One is our teacher, even Christ. Christians are given a new way to understand, to know beyond the words that are written or spoken (led and guided by the Spirit of God).

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Ch. 29: AND JESUS ADDED:

“Take heed what ye hear. With what measure ye mete, it shall me be measured to you; and unto you that hear shall more be given. For he that hath, to him shall be given; and he that hath not, from him shall be taken even that which he hath.”

***

Scriptures:

Matthew 13:1-23; Mark 4:1-25; Luke 8:4-18

We Don't Know Everything

Don C. Harris — Fri, 11 Nov 2022 15:00:00 -0600

Are you better off today than you were last week? Last month? Last year? You should be. Obedience to the Word of God always makes us better. Don't limit your self-evaluation to financial gains. There are many gifts (self-control, patience, forgiveness, etc.) that lead to a better life and success - come what may.

Strive to enter into the narrow gate. Remember, our walk toward salvation is a process. There is no way to stay in the same place. We get better or we get worse. Every gift has a responsibility attached. If we receive revelations or understandings about the Word of God that we ignore, they will be taken from us.

We should not expect to learn everything we need to know from what is written in the Scriptures. “And there are also many other things which Jesus did, the which, if they should be written every one, I suppose that even the world itself could not contain the books that should be written." John 21

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Ch. 29: AND JESUS ADDED -

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Scriptures:

Matthew 13:1-23; Mark 4:1-25; Luke 8:4-18

Judgment and Responsibility

Don C. Harris — Fri, 04 Nov 2022 15:00:00 -0600

If what you believe is not true, do you want to know it? We have been sold a bill-of-goods when it comes to the requirements of residency in the Kingdom of Heaven. Every man and woman will be judged based on what they did - according to the will and way of God. We must strive, indeed, we must earn, our place in the Kingdom. Not everyone is called.

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Ch. 29: JESUS TELLS A PARABLE OF A SOWER

THE SAME DAY that his mother and brothers had come to see him, Jesus want down by the seaside. Great multitudes came to hear and see him. Jesus sat in a boat and spoke to the crowd on the shore, saying:

“Behold, a sower went forth to sow. And when he sowed, some seeds fell by the wayside, and the fowls came and devoured them up. Some fell upon stony places, where they had not much earth; and forthwith they sprung up, because they had no deepness of earth. And when the sun was up, they were schorched; and because they had no root, they withered away. And some fell among thorns; and the thorns sprung up, and choked them. But other fell into good ground, and brought forth fruit, some a hundredfold, some sixtyfold, some thirtyfold. Who hath ears to hear, let him hear.”

When they were alone, his disciples asked Jesus:

“Why speakest thou to them in parables?”

Jesus replied:

“Because it is given unto you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of Heaven, but to them it is not given. For whosoever hath, to him shall be given, and he shall have more abundance; but whosoever hath not, from him shall be taken away even that he hath. Therefore speak I to them in parables: because they seeing see not; and hearing they hear not, neither do they understand. And them is fulfilled the prophecy of Isaiah, which saith, “By hearing ye shall not hear, and shall not understand; and seeing ye shall see, and shall not perceive. For this people’s heart is waxed gross, and their ears are dull of hearing, and their eyes they have closed; lest as any time they should see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and should understand with their heart, and should be converted, and I should heal them. But blessed are your eyes, for they see; and your ears, for they hear. For verily I say unto you that many prophets and righteous men have desired to see those things which ye see, and have not seen them; and to hear those things which ye hear, and have not heard them.

“Hear ye therefore the parable of the sower: When anyone heareth the word of the kingdom, and understandeth it not, then cometh the wicked one, and catcheth away that which was sown in his heart. This is he which received seed by the wayside. But he that received the seed into stony places, the same is he that heareth the word, and anon with joy receiveth it. Yet hath he not root in himself, but dureth for a while; for when tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the word, by and by he is offended.

He also that received seed among the thorns is he that heareth the word; and the care of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, choke the word, and he becometh unfruitful. But he that received seed into the good ground is he that heareth the word, and understandeth it; which also beareth fruit, and bringeth forth, some a hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty.”

Jesus also said:

“Is a candle brought to be put under a bushel, or under a bed? And not to be set on a candlestick? For there is nothing his, which shall not be manifested; neither was anything kept secret, but that it should come abroad. If any man have ears to hear, let him hear.”

And Jesus added:

***

Scriptures:

Matthew 13:1-23; Mark 4:1-25; Luke 8:4-18

Hindrances To Understanding

Don C. Harris — Fri, 28 Oct 2022 15:00:00 -0600

Jesus came to save the nation of Israel. Sadly, Israel rejected Jesus. Things were forever changed. Faith is now required of everyone.

Jesus came to save the world (Israel); His own people rejected him. However, to those who received HIM - gave He grace (power to become) a son of God. If they say I'm in a secret place (I'm not there). Those who are of me hear my voice. Remember the Scriptures, "Let them hear... unto you it is given."

The first Parable: Sower sows the Word. Disobedience to the commandments blocks understanding. Make a change today!

Exodus 20:1-17 (Ten Commandments)

1 And God spake all these words, saying,

2 I am the Lord thy God, which have brought thee out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage.

3 Thou shalt have no other gods before me.

4 Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of any thing that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth.

5 Thou shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor serve them: for I the Lord thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me;

6 And shewing mercy unto thousands of them that love me, and keep my commandments.

7 Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain; for the Lord will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain.

8 Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy.

9 Six days shalt thou labor, and do all thy work:

10 But the seventh day is the sabbath of the Lord thy God: in it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, thy manservant, nor thy maidservant, nor thy cattle, nor thy stranger that is within thy gates:

11 For in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day: wherefore the Lord blessed the sabbath day, and hallowed it.

12 Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee.

13 Thou shalt not kill.

14 Thou shalt not commit adultery.

15 Thou shalt not steal.

16 Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbor.

17 Thou shalt not covet thy neighbor's house, thou shalt not covet thy neighbor's wife, nor his manservant, nor his maidservant, nor his ox, nor his ass, nor any thing that is thy neighbor's.

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Ch. 29: JESUS ALSO SAID:

AND JESUS ADDED:

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Scriptures:

Matthew 13:1-23; Mark 4:1-25; Luke 8:4-18

Everything Is Not For Everyone

Don C. Harris — Fri, 21 Oct 2022 15:00:00 -0600

Jesus came in humility and meekness to be received of His people. Jesus always obeyed His Father and earned God's approval. Jesus yielded to become a suffering servant to provide a way of reconciliation for mankind. This sacrifice, this service, did not make our Savior Jesus or our King Jesus into our beck-and-call God. God is sovereign. We must strive individually for our perfection. "For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to shew himself strong in the behalf of them whose heart is perfect toward him..." 2 Chronicles 16:9

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Ch. 29: JESUS ALSO SAID:

And Jesus added:

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Scriptures:

Matthew 13:1-23; Mark 4:1-25; Luke 8:4-18

Kingdom Communication

Don C. Harris — Fri, 14 Oct 2022 15:00:00 -0600

Mysteries have been hidden since the foundation of the world for the edification and understanding of those who have ears-to-hear. Surface principles have been taken from the Bible and applied to modern Christianity in a way not intended by God. The desire for knowledge, the desire to teach, the desire for hierarchy have supplanted the principal outlined in the gospel. Specifically, "One is your teacher, even Christ." Jesus taught in parables to facilitate revelation by God to the hearts of men.

"Faith comes by hearing and hearing by the Word of God..."

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Ch. 29: JESUS TELLS A PARABLE OF A SOWER

When they were alone, his disciples asked Jesus:

“Why speakest thou to them in parables?”

Jesus replied:

Jesus also said:

And Jesus added:

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Scriptures:

Matthew 13:1-23; Mark 4:1-25; Luke 8:4-18

Teaching Heavenly Things

Don C. Harris — Fri, 07 Oct 2022 15:00:00 -0600

Jesus did not teach universalism. Jesus said, "Many are called, few are chosen." While teaching the disciples the first parable, Jesus reveals foundational understanding required to become part of the Kingdom of God. God hides things from people who are not called – blessed are ye who hear. The implementation of God's will has been turned over to His people. God’s will is done when God's people do it. Strive to enter in. The kingdom of God contains both judgment and reward.

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Ch. 29: JESUS TELLS A PARABLE OF A SOWER

When they were alone, his disciples asked Jesus:

“Why speakest thou to them in parables?”

Jesus replied:

Jesus also said:

And Jesus added:

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Scriptures:

Matthew 13:1-23; Mark 4:1-25; Luke 8:4-18

Born Into The Family

Don C. Harris — Fri, 30 Sep 2022 15:00:00 -0600

Who is my mother?

"Whosoever does the will of my Father is my brother, my sister and my mother.” Being born again is a process. There is conception (a seed is planted), then, gestation and finally birth.

Strive to be a vessel for duplication of Christ. This mystery has been hidden since the foundation of the world. How far along are you in the process? Look at your works. Works are the measure of our faith. What we believe, we do.

"Hear and Do" equals building your house on the rock. It always comes back to faith and works. Think Red Ink!

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Ch. 28: JESUS’ MOTHER AND BROTHERS COME TO SEE HIM

WHILE JESUS was talking to the people, his mother and brothers came to the house but were unable to enter because of the large crowds which thronged about it.

A messenger came to Jesus, saying:

“Behold, thy mother and thy brethren stand without, desiring to speak with thee.”

But Jesus replied to the messenger:

“Who is my mother? And who are my brethren?”

Then Jesus stretched his hand in the direction of his disciples and said:

“Behold my mother and my brethren!

For whosoever shall do the will of my Father which is in Heaven, the same is my brother, and sister, and mother.”

***

If you were family, you would hear and do; Hear the word of God is my mother - womb - a place to develop (pregnancy), seed of Christ, Abraham, Abraham's seed, not all who say, "Lord, Lord…" works are required; seed remains -does not sin, born again; do the right thing every time; daily life is what we are judged on;

born-again, salvation, seed of Christ, miscarriage, environment not hostile,

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Scriptures: Matthew 12:46-50; Mark 3:31-35; Luke 5:19-21

Furnish your House with Truth

Don C. Harris — Fri, 23 Sep 2022 15:00:00 -0600

Here's your sign. The last sign. "Three days and three nights" Don't let the instructions of tradition and dogma rob you of the sign given by Messiah. Syncretism has hidden this sign. Our job is to worship in Spirit and Truth.

Offer: Reconciling the Resurrection DVD - Free.

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Ch. 27: JESUS REFUSES TO GIVE A SIGN OF HIS AUTHORITY

CERTAIN of the scribes and Pharisees came to Jesus and said:

“Master, we would see a sign of thee.”

Jesus answered:

“An evil and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign; and there shall no sign be given to it, but the sign of the prophet Jonah. For as Jonah was three days and three nights in the shale’s belly, so shall the Son of man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth. The men of Nineveh shall rise in judgment with this generation, and shall condemn it because they repented at the preaching of Jonah; and, behold, a greater than Jonah is here. The queen of the south shall rise in judgment with this generation, and shall condemn it; for she came from the uttermost parts of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon; and, behold, a greater than Solomon is here. When the unclean spirit is gone out of a man, he walketh through dry places, seeking rest, and findeth none. Then he saith, ‘I will return into my house from whence I came out’; and when he is come, he findeth it empty, swept, and garnished. Then goeth he, and taketh with himself seven other spirits more wicked than himself, and they enter in and dwell there; and the last state of that man is worse than the first. Even so shall it be also unto this wicked generation.”

Blasphemy of the Holy Spirit

Don C. Harris — Fri, 16 Sep 2022 15:00:00 -0600

"When the Messiah comes will He do more works than this man?"

In order to mature in the faith, we must discern the thoughts and intents of our hearts. How can we? By simply listening to what we say (our hearts leak through our mouths). Conversion takes time. Hear what you say and make changes. Those unable to hear and unwilling to obey create doubt by making accusations. The undeniable signs of healing where remarkably discredited. The crowds believed that Jesus of Nazareth was the Son of God.

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CHAPTER 26: JESUS HEALS A DUMB AND BLIND MAN

A MAN both dumb and blind was healed when he was brought before Jesus.

Those who saw this miracle were amazed and said:

“Is not this the son of David?”

But when the scribes from Jerusalem and the Pharisees heard of it, they said:

“This fellow doth not cast out devils, but by Beelzebub, the prince of devils.”

Jesus knew their thoughts and responded:

“Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation; and every city or house divided against itself shall not stand. And if Satan cast out Satan, he is divided against himself. How shall then his kingdom stand? And if I by Beelzebub cast out devils, by whom do your children cast them out? Therefore they shall be your judges. But if I cast out devils by the Spirit of God, then the kingdom of God is come unto you. Or else how can one enter into a strong man’s house, and spoil his goods, except he first bind the strong man? And then he will spoil his goods, except he first bind the strong man? And then he will spoil his house. He that is not with me is against me; and he that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad.

“Wherefore I say unto you, ‘All manner of sin and blasphemy against the Holy Ghost shall not be forgiven unto men; but the blasphemy against the Holy Ghost shall not be forgiven unto men. And whosoever speaketh a word against the Son of man, it shall be forgiven him’ but whosoever speaketh against the Holy Ghost, it shall not be forgiven him, neither in this world, neither in the world to come.’

Either make the tree good, and his fruit good; or else make the tree corrupt, and his fruit corrupt; for the tree is known by his fruit. O generation of vipers, how can ye, being evil, speak good things? For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh. A good man out of the good treasure of the heart bringeth forth good things; and an evil man out of the evil treasure bringeth forth evil things. But I say unto you that every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment. For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned.”

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Scriptures: Matthew 12:22-37; Mark 3:20-30; Luke 11:14-36

Do You See This Woman

Don C. Harris — Fri, 09 Sep 2022 15:00:00 -0600

Jesus, our Redeemer, came to minister to small and great with the same love and unerring truth. John 3:17-18, "For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.” 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."

Offer: "The Red Letter Questions" by Don C. Harris. Email don@thinkredink.com to request a free "The Red Letter Questions" audio book on cd or you can purchase a print book online.

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Ch. 25 - JESUS ANOINTED

Jesus accepted an invitation to go to the home of a Pharisee for a meal. While Jesus sat eating, a sinful woman of the city came to the house, bringing an alabaster box of ointment. (The gospel of John identifies the woman who anointed Jesus and wiped his feet with her hair as Mary, the sister of Martha. Evidently the story was known in two versions, and the two writers had heard the same story but about different individuals.) She stood weeping and washed his feet with her tears, dried them with her hair, kissed them, and anointed them with the ointment. When the Pharisee saw what the woman was doing, he thought to himself;

“This man, if he were a prophet, would have known who and what manner of woman this is that toucheth him; for she is a sinner.”

Jesus said to the Pharisee:

“Simon, I have somewhat to say unto thee.”

The Pharisee replied:

“Master, say on.”

Jesus said:

“There was a certain creditor which had two debtors: the one owed five hundred pence, and the other fifty. And when they had nothing to pay, he frankly forgave them both. Tell me therefore, which of them will love him most?”

Simon answered, saying:

“I suppose that he to whom he forgave most.”

Jesus replied:

“Thou hast rightly judged.”

Jesus turned toward the woman, saying to Simon:

“Seest thou this woman? I entered unto thine house, thou gavest me no water for my feet; but she hath washed my feed with tears and wiped them with the hairs of her head. Thou gavest me no kiss; but this woman since the time I came in hath not ceased to kiss my feet. My head with oil thou didst not anoint: but this woman hath anointed my feet with ointment.

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’.”

To the woman Jesus said:

“Thy sins are forgiven.”

Those who sat at the feast thought to themselves:

“Who is this that forgiveth sins also?”

Jesus said to the woman:

“Thy faith hath saved thee; go in peace.”

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Scriptures: Luke 7:36-50

One Message to the Entire World

Don C. Harris — Fri, 02 Sep 2022 15:00:00 -0600

"Have the mind of Christ." But, how? Jesus said, if you keep my commandments the Father and I will move in and lead and guide you from the inside. The Father and the Son; it's a package deal. Salvation is a process. Knowing the Bible is not enough to hear guidance from God. Jesus said, "My burden is light."

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Ch. 24 - JESUS INVITES ALL MEN TO GOD

Jesus explained to the multitude how they could reach the Father through the Son, saying:

“I thank thee, O Father, Lord of Heaven and earth, because thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes. Even so, Father; for so it seemed good in thy sight. All things are delivered unto me of my Father, and no man knoweth the Son but the Father; neither knoweth any man the Father, save the Son, and he to whomsoever the Son will reveal him.

“Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”

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Scriptures: Matthew 11:25-30

Change is Coming

Don C. Harris — Fri, 26 Aug 2022 15:00:00 -0600

...old things shall pass away. Sounds like heaven, right? Trouble is we are not in sync with our God. We like the 'old things', i.e. the temple (church), the priesthood (pastors), our traditions (holidays), and our status (birthright or contract salvation). Repentance requires us to change; to follow God's heart (not our own selfish desires). It’s the only way to enter the Kingdom of God. It's "what we know" that gets in the way of communication. In theory, everyone wants change for the better. The trouble is we are quite comfortable with the way things are. Assume what you know is incorrect. Chances are it is. Make a clean slate for the Spirit of God to teach.

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Ch. 23: JESUS SPEAKS OF JOHN THE BAPTIST

WHEN THE messages of John the Baptist had left, Jesus said to the multitude concerning the Baptizer:

“What went ye out into the wilderness to see? A reed shaken with the wind? But what went ye out to see? A man clothed in soft raiment? Behold, they which are gorgeously appareled, and live delicately, are in kings’ courts. But what went ye out to see? A prophet? Yea, I say unto you, ‘And much more than a prophet.’ This is he, of whom it is written, ‘Behold, I send my messenger before thy face, which shall prepare the way before thee.’ For I say unto you, ‘Among those that are born of women there is not a greater prophet than John the Baptist; but he that is least in the kingdom of God is greater than he.’”

The publicans and people who had been baptized by John glorified God because of Jesus’ words of tribute to John. But the Pharisees and lawyers rejected his words against themselves, being not baptized by John.

Jesus continued speaking:

“Whereunto then shall I liken the men of this generation? And to what are they like? They are like unto children sitting in the marketplace, and calling one to another, and saying, ‘We have piped unto you, and ye have not danced; we have mourned to you, and ye have not wept’.

For John the Baptist came neither eating bread nor drinking wine, and ye say, ‘He hath a devil’. The Son of man is come eating and drinking; and ye say, ‘Behold a gluttonous man, and a winebibber, a friend of publicans and sinners! But wisdom is justified of all her children.”

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Scriptures:

Matthew 11:7-19; Luke 7:24-35

God's Will Thwarted

Don C. Harris — Fri, 19 Aug 2022 15:00:00 -0600

Jesus was not a sissy in the Garden of Gethsemane. Jesus understood what we often do not, that being that things were not going according to the plan. God expected Jesus to be received as King the people of Israel. Put aside flannel-graph theology. God lives with us and makes decisions every day! "God never changes!" you cry out. Of course not, God has always had the ability to change-His-mind! Read the book. It's in there.

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Chapter 22: Jesus Answers John the Baptist Regarding His Identity

JOHN THE BAPTIST was in prison, but he heard about the works of Jesus. He called two of his disciples and told them to go to Jesus and ask:

"Art thou he that should come? Or look we for another?"

They found Jesus and said to him:

"John Baptist has sent us unto thee, saying, 'Art thou he that should come? Or look we for another?"

While the two disciples of John were with him Jesus healed many who were inform, many who were suffering with plagues, and others who were filled with evil spirits; also, to many that were blind he gave sight.

Then Jesus said unto the disciples:

"Go and show John again those things which ye do hear and see: the blind receive their sight, and the lame walk; the lepers are cleansed, and the deaf hear; the dead are raised up, and the poor have the gospel preached to them. And blessed is he, whosoever shall not be offended in me."

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The Greatest Prophet

Don C. Harris — Fri, 12 Aug 2022 15:00:00 -0600

The Scriptures contain conflicting ideas about the coming of Messiah; one version says Messiah will come and be the King of Israel; the opposing version is that the Messiah will come meek and lowly riding on a donkey. Why this conflict? Why did the people of Israel miss the identity of the greatest prophet and the Messiah?

Why did Jesus call John the Baptist the greatest prophet born of a woman? Why was Jesus rejected by the people of Israel? "...God said, ‘Surely they'll reverence my Son." What happened? The wickedness of mankind surprises God.

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Chapter 22: Jesus Answers John the Baptist Regarding His Identity

JOHN THE BAPTIST was in prison, but he heard about the works of Jesus. He called two of his disciples and told them to go to Jesus and ask:

"Art thou he that should come? Or look we for another?"

They found Jesus and said to him:

"John Baptist has sent us unto thee, saying, 'Art thou he that should come? Or look we for another?"

Then Jesus said unto the disciples:

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Reality Based Jesus

Don C. Harris — Fri, 05 Aug 2022 15:00:00 -0600

The Sermon on the Mount is loaded with "heavenly things" - concepts beyond the imaginations of selfish, earthy men. Pearls of wisdom. Secrets to a good life. Don't move on too quickly. The Scriptures never mention a judgment day based on beliefs; Jesus cares what we do. Actions matter. Our relationship to our fellowman is VERY important to God; He says, "how you treat them, is how you treat me."

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Chapter 19: The Sermon on the Mount

...Judge not and you will not be judged: condemn not, and you will not be condemned: forgive, and you will be forgiven. For with what judgment you judge, you will be judged: and with what measure you mete, it will be measured to you again.

And he spake a parable unto them, Can the blind lead the blind? Will they not both fall into the ditch? And why do you behold the speck that is in your brother's eye, but consider not the beam that is in your own eye? Or how wilt you say to your brother, Brother, let me pull the speck out of your eye; and perceive not the beam in your own eye? You hypocrite, first cast out the beam out of your own eye; and then will you see clearly to pull the speck out of your brother's eye.

Give not that which is holy unto the dogs, neither cast your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn again and rend you.

Ask, and it will be given you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened unto you: For every one that asks receives; and he that seeks finds; and to him that knocks it will be opened. Give, and it will be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that you mete withal it will be measured to you again.

What man is there of you, whom if his son ask bread, will he give him a stone? Or if he ask a fish, will he give him a serpent? If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to them that ask him?

Therefore all things whatsoever you would that men should do to you, do even so to them Likewise: for this is the law and the prophets.

Enter in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leads to destruction, and many there be which go in there. Strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leads unto life, and few there be that find it.

Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.

The disciple is not above his master, nor the servant above his lord: but every one that is perfect will be as his master.

For every tree is known by his own fruit. You will know them by their fruits. Even so every good tree brings forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree brings forth evil fruit. A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit; neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit.

Do men gather grapes from thorns, or figs from thistles? Every tree that brings not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. Wherefore by their fruits you will know them.

A good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth that which is good; and an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart brings forth that which is evil: for of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks.

Why do you call me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things that I say? Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, will enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that does the will of my Father who is in heaven.

Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in your name? And in your name have cast out devils? And in your name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, you that work iniquity.

Therefore whoever comes to me, and hears my sayings, and does them, I will shew you who he is like, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock and digged deep, and laid the foundation on a rock. And the rain descended, and the floods came and the winds blew and when the flood arose, the stream beat vehemently upon that house, but it fell not and could not shake it for it was founded upon a rock.

But he that hears these sayings of mine, and does them not, will be likened unto a foolish man that built his house upon the sand, without a foundation, upon the earth; against which the stream did beat vehemently and the rain descended, and the floods came and the winds blew, and beat upon that house and immediately it fell and the fall and the ruin of that house were great.

And it came to pass, when Jesus had ended these sayings, the people were astonished at his doctrine: For he taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes.

No Proof Belief in God

Don C. Harris — Fri, 29 Jul 2022 15:00:00 -0600

In the Old Testament Scriptures (Torah and the Prophets) God proved himself faithful to the people of earth through miraculous events. Then, final proof - He sent His Son! The wisdom of Jesus and the miracles he performed proved to the religious leaders and the people that he was "that prophet" (the son of man and son of God), who was promised for the redemption of the people. Jesus lamented the rejection of the people. Now, faith is required. God is not in the proving-business. Jesus said, "Learn [from] me. Obey the ten commandments. Then, the Father and I will move in and lead you - from the inside."

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Chapter 19: The Sermon on the Mount

...Be therefore merciful, as your Father also is merciful. Be therefore perfect, even as your Father who is in heaven is perfect. Take heed that you do not your charity before men, to be seen of them: otherwise you have no reward of your Father which is in heaven. Therefore when you do your charity, do not sound a trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward. But when you do alms, let not your left hand know what your right hand does: That your alms may be in secret: and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly.

And when you pray, you will not be as the hypocrites are for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward. But you, when you pray, enter into your closet, and when you have shut your door, pray to your Father who is in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly.

But when you pray use not vain recitations, as the heathen do: for they think that they will be heard for their much speaking. Be not therefore like unto them: for your Father knows what things you need, before you ask him.

After this manner therefore pray: Our Father who is in heaven, Hallowed be your name.

Your kingdom come. Your will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.

Give us our daily bread, day by day.

And forgive us our sin debts, for we also forgive everyone indebted to us.

And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil

For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you:

But if you forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.

Moreover when you fast, be not, as the hypocrites, of a sad countenance: for they disfigure their faces that they may appear unto men to fast. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward. But you, when you fast, anoint your head, and wash your face That you appear not unto men to fast, but unto your Father which is in secret: and your Father, which sees in secret, will reward you openly.

Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust corrupts, and where thieves break through and steal: But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust corrupts, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.

The light of the body is the eye: if therefore your eye were single, your whole body will be full of light. But if your eye be evil, your whole body will be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in you be darkness, how great is that darkness!

No man 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. You cannot serve God and mammon.

Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what you will eat, or what you will drink; nor yet for your body, what you will put on. Is not the life more than food, and the body than clothes?

Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much better than they? Which of you by taking thought can add one inch unto his stature? And why take thought for clothes? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin: And yet I say unto you, That even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.

Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which to day is, and tomorrow is cast into the oven, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? Therefore take no thought, saying, What will we eat? Or, What will we drink? Or, With what will we be clothed? (For after all these things do the nations seek) for your heavenly Father knows that you have need of all these things.

But seek first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things will be added unto you. Take therefore no thought for tomorrow: for tomorrow will take thought for the things of itself. What is sufficient for the day is the evil thereof.

Judge not and you will not be judged: condemn not, and you will not be condemned: forgive, and you will be forgiven. For with what judgment you judge, you will be judged: and with what measure you mete, it will be measured to you again.

Give not that which is holy unto the dogs, neither cast your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn again and rend you.

Therefore all things whatsoever you would that men should do to you, do even so to them Likewise: for this is the law and the prophets.

Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.

The disciple is not above his master, nor the servant above his lord: but every one that is perfect will be as his master.

Do men gather grapes from thorns, or figs from thistles? Every tree that brings not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. Wherefore by their fruits you will know them.

And it came to pass, when Jesus had ended these sayings, the people were astonished at his doctrine: For he taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes.

Don't Bank on This World to Save You

Don C. Harris — Fri, 22 Jul 2022 15:00:00 -0600

The Kingdom of God is a mystery until you become a part of the Kingdom of God. Jesus teaches us the keys. Pray in secret. Forgive everyone. Fast in secret. The open reward of obedience is observed as a "lucky life." Not a life of wealth but having the ability to face whatever comes your way without perishing. It's a good life.

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Chapter 19: The Sermon on the Mount

...And when you pray, you will not be as the hypocrites are for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward. But you, when you pray, enter into your closet, and when you have shut your door, pray to your Father who is in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly.