Good Morning “Followers.”  Today we are in Matthew 5.

At the end of Matthew 4 we see Jesus strolling along the sea - building His team!  If you were picking teams, of course you would pick the unqualified… The most unlikely. Right? Jesus picks and calls those no one else would think to call!  Why?  Because when He does extraordinary things through ordinary people He gets the Glory!  Thats why we’re here!  To bring glory to Him (Matthew 5:16)!

In Matthew 4:18-22 Jesus is calling fishermen to leave EVERYTHING and join Him.  The crazy thing is, they DO IT!  The expectation is - we will too!

Chapter 5 starts with Jesus lining them out.  He’s got them, now what’s He do with them?  First a little training.  Jesus starts with a list of expectations we’ve come to know as the Beatitudes.  If you’re going to roll with me, this should “be your attitude”… ok maybe I made that last part up, but it does help remind us to keep the proper attitude.  

Jesus then moves into - further responsibilities and expectations.  The earth, mankind - it’s ours to preserve.  It’s dark but it’s ours to light up.  Salt was the preservative of the time.  It kept things from spoiling, going bad, rotting.  We’re it… well the Holy Spirit in us, but we’re the vessel.  No biggie, just don’t let it go bad… the world that is.  That’s the implication of our charge to be Salt and light!  When we look around and wonder how things have gotten so crazy, and why God doesn’t do something - the answer is here in verses 13-16.  We need only look in the mirror.  

Jesus moves on to reminding them / us that He did not come to wipe away the old law and start over, but to fulfill it.  He covers a number of specific sins: Murder, Adultery, Divorce, Oaths, Vengeance, and then reminds us to Love even our Enemies!  

Pieces of Matthew 5 often find their way into our teaching - for good reason.  There is so much here!  Dig in, take a look!  The only way we can live like He expects - is to understand the expectation (Joshua 1:8)!

Love you all!  Dig in and live it out!  Love em Like Jesus!

Good Morning “Spirit Led”.  Today we are in Matthew 4.

“Then Jesus was led by the Spirit to be tested by the devil in the Wilderness”. Matthew 4:1 It’s important to note - The Holy Spirit led Him to be tested!  Remember although Jesus was fully God, He was also fully man.  This is yet another one of those miraculous, mysterious things difficult for us to wrap our minds around.  Why would The Spirit lead Him to be tested?  Maybe it was like in the book of Job - to put the devil in his place, maybe it was simply preparation for the future suffering Jesus would face (Hebrews 2:10, 5:8-9).  Jesus was about to begin his formal ministry.  Was He ready?  He proved He was.

After 40 days and 40 nights in the desert He was hungry!  Luke Chapter 4 records He ate nothing in that time.  40 days is about what it takes to die of starvation.  Jesus was likely hanging on by a thread.

Satan tempts him in the 3 areas he tempted Adam and Eve in the garden (Genesis 3:4-7). It’s the 3 ways he attacks us as well.  Lust of the eyes, lust of the flesh and pride of life.  In each case Jesus responds with Scripture.

“Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.’”

Jesus answered him, “It is also written: ‘Do not put the Lord your God to the test.’”

Jesus said to him, “Away from me, Satan!  For it is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only.’””
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭4‬:‭4‬, ‭7‬, ‭10‬ ‭NIV‬‬

We know The Word of God is our Sword for battle against the evil one - it’s the only thing with the power to shine light on his lies (Ephesians 6:17).  But, why no other words?  He’s likely nearly dead remember, weak, exhausted, likely unable to stand.  With each temptation we read “the devil took him.” Why did He only respond with Scripture? It’s what He knew.  In short, it’s what He was made of.  It came out during His deepest struggle because it’s always on the tip of His tongue.  If Jesus who IS God, needed The Word… so do we.

Love you all!  Dig in and live it out!

Good Morning “Unlikely”.  Today we are in Matthew 3.

John the Baptist didn’t fit the mold that’s for sure.  Especially that of the religious leaders.  Would John be welcome if he showed up in our church? Maybe I’ll show up Sunday morning wearing a camel hair coat.  We can grab some lunch after service - anyone know who serves locust and honey?

The Pharisees and the Sadducees were the rule keepers, yet it’s John that has to set them straight!  Their self made righteousness isn’t what God’s after. John challenges them to produce real fruit, the kind that comes from repentance  and reliance on God.  John’s busy Baptizing all comers from Jerusalem to Judea.  Even Jesus!

“As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting on him. And a voice from heaven said, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.””
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭3‬:‭16‬-‭17‬ ‭NIV‬‬

We use the word Trinity as a label for the 3 persons of our God.  You will not find that word in Scripture.  That doesn’t mean our Triune God doesn’t exist.  Here we see all three persons clearly - The Father, The Son, and The Holy Spirit together yet separate.  He’s 1 God in 3 persons… not 3 Gods.  I know, I know, it’s hard to understand.  It’s like the 3 states of water existing simultaneously, no it’s like the egg with its 3 parts… NO He’s not!  Ha ha… Any human effort that try’s to define The Trinity falls short in my opinion.  It’s comical to watch finite humans attempt to define an infinite unimaginable God (Isaiah 55:8-9, Isaiah 40:13). He doesn’t fit into our box of categories.  Isn’t that the point?  Why would I worship a god I could figure out?  I’m not that smart.

When we receive Jesus our sins are washed away by the Holy Spirit (Titus 3:5).  We are “Baptized” by the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:4-5).  Once that’s happened, He commands that we declare it publicly.  That’s what water Baptism does.  Even Jesus, who WAS God, chose to be baptized out of obedience.  It is a public declaration of what has already occurred inside (Romans 6:1-4). Baptism publicly says Jesus I’m yours, and asks witnesses to hold us accountable to live like it.  When we realize what Jesus has done for us, we get Baptized out of obedience (Matthew 28:19-20).  Reach out, we could talk more about it.

Matthew Chapter 3, and John the Baptist stand as proof that God uses broken, unlikely, out of the ordinary tools for extraordinary things!  Let Him use you!  

Love you all!  Dig in and live it out!

Good Morning “Like Jesus Lovers”.  Today we’re in Matthew 2.

The long awaited Savior of the world has arrived - born in Bethlehem just as was prophesied!  He is finally here!  “But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for out of you will come a ruler who will shepherd my people Israel.’” ‭‭Matthew‬ ‭2‬:‭6‬ ‭NIV‬‬  Yet another prophecy regarding Jesus fulfilled (Micah 5:2,4).  God picked the perfect time and place for Jesus to be born - just like He said.

Herod was an evil king who had already had 2 of his own sons killed and put a 3rd on the chopping block.  Everyone knew this new king was coming - they were anxiously awaiting the arrival of the Promised One who would be the Savior of the world!   Herod wasn’t having it!  He was King and not about to watch the people’s attention turn to another.  This stone cold killer puts a plan into motion - but our God is WAY bigger.  He thwarts the plans of men, frustrates the plans of the wicked so they achieve no success (Proverbs 19:21; Psalm 33:10; Psalm 146:9)  

God protects Jesus along with Mary and Joseph.  He is in sovereign control… ALWAYS.      Jesus came to show us how to live, to show us how to love, and to become sin for us so that we might live (2 Corinthians 5:21)!


Love you all!  Dig in and live it out!

Good Morning “Digging In”
Today we are in Matthew 1.

“The book of the genealogy of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham.”
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭1‬:‭1‬ ‭ESV‬‬

Matthew is said to be the “Recorder” among the Disciples.  He was a tax collector and thus would have been inclined to catch the details and even record them.  Some have said Matthew left everything behind to follow Jesus… everything but his pen and paper.  

“The first two words of Matthew, biblos genseos, may be translated ‘record of the genealogy,’ ‘record of the origins,’ or ‘record of the history’ There is a sense in which each meaning is valid.  

Matthew 1-17 gives us the “record of the genealogy”.

Matthew 18-23 gives us the “record of the origins.”  

Within the book of Matthew we have the record of history.

Matthew begins by establishing Jesus right to the eternal throne as prophesied.  He states it from the beginning “Jesus Christ The Son of David (2 Samuel 7:12-16; Psalm 132:11; Isaiah 11:1; Jeremiah 23:5), The Son of Abraham (Genesis 22:18; Galatians 3:16).

Joseph receives a visit from an angel who defends Mary’s honor, and helps him understand the miracle that would take place.   In turn he does not divorce Mary but keeps and marries her!  Jesus, The Savior of the world - born of a virgin!  Here we go, buckle your seat belts!  

Love you all!  Dig and live it out!

Good Morning “Side Choosers”.
Today we finish the Old Testament with Malachi 4.  

Judgment is coming… for the wicked… with finality.  Suffering - unending.  “But for you who fear my name, the sun of righteousness shall rise with healing in its wings. You shall go out leaping like calves from the stall. And you shall tread down the wicked, for they will be ashes under the soles of your feet, on the day when I act, says the Lord of hosts.” Malachi‬ ‭4‬:‭2‬-‭3‬ ‭ESV‬‬

I don’t think I have to explain who the Sun of Righteousness is here?  Hint…  the tomb is empty!  He is risen!  He is risen indeed!  I believe the day  Malachi speaks of here, is the same day The Lord showed John in Revelation 19.  First He comes back in the clouds to get the church (The Rapture 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18).  Then The Tribulation (Matthew 24:21, John 16:33, Revelation 3:10).  

Then Jesus will return to judge the nations… but He’s not alone.

Here’s an excerpt from that passage...  
“He is clothed in a robe dipped in blood, and the name by which he is called is The Word of God. And the armies of heaven, arrayed in fine linen, white and pure, were following him on white horses. From his mouth comes a sharp sword with which to strike down the nations, and he will rule them with a rod of iron. He will tread the winepress of the fury of the wrath of God the Almighty.” Revelation‬ ‭19‬:‭13-15‬ ‭ESV‬‬

This is the only time recorded in Prophecy when those with fear God, will go out with Him, trending down the wicked - when He acts.

I guess the real question we must each ask is do we fear Him?  Are we His child?  Are we under His protection as described?  Only two groups, two sides described here… none in the middle.  Which side are you on?

Love you all!  Dig in and live it out!

Good Morning “Testers.”  Today we are in Malachi 3.

The tomb is empty!  He is Risen!  Risen indeed!  God told them He was coming!  He tells us, He’s coming back!  

As God begins to finish His rebuke to Judah… it’s almost as if He’s preparing them for the 400 years of silence that’s coming.  From Malachi to the arrival of John The Baptist God remains silent.  He’s said all there is to say.  “…Return to me, and I will return to you…”  Malachi‬ ‭3‬:‭7‬ ‭NIV‬‬

God through Malachi gives us prophecy that paints the picture.  John the Baptist is coming! He will herald the coming Messiah - Jesus (Matthew 3).  Jesus will set things straight.  He will show us how to live (John 13:5-17; Matthew 20:28), offer salvation to all who would repent and believe through The Cross (John 3:16) - then one day return to judge the nations (vs 1-5, Revelation 19:11-).  

Gods people rebelled against The Word of God and compromised in every area of their lives.  They were even  “robbing” God in the area of tithing (vs 8-9).  There are alot of areas that we can demonstrate our faith in God but few are as defining as our finances.  How stingy we are with our finances as it relates to the kingdom, says a lot about who or rather who’s we are (2 Corinthians 9:7).

“Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,” says the Lord Almighty, “and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it.” Malachi‬ ‭3‬:‭10‬ ‭NIV‬‬

WE CANNOT OUT GIVE GOD!  He asks us to lay ALL that we have at His feet (Romans 12:1).  He will in turn magnify what’s left when given freely, with a humble willing heart.

We are warned not to test The Lord our God (Matthew 4:7), so obviously God challenging us in this area is BIG! Money tells the tale of our hearts.  Jesus  makes it quite clear in Matthew 6:24.  We must figure out who we serve, God or money… we can’t serve both.

It all comes from Him!  It’s all His anyway (Deuteronomy 8:18)!

Love you all!  Dig in and live it out!

Good Morning “Radicals”. Today we are in Malachi 2.

“You have wearied the Lord with your words. “How have we wearied him?” you ask. By saying, “All who do evil are good in the eyes of the Lord, and he is pleased with them” or “Where is the God of justice?” Malachi‬ ‭2‬:‭17‬ ‭NIV‬‬

In today’s chapter Malachi brings rebuke from The Lord for some of Judahs sins.  

Their priests have been distorting the Word of God… but how?  Gods covenant with the house of Levi was one of fear.  Levi feared God, and stood in awe of Him (vs 5 ESV).  The priests of Judah lost that - and modeled their lack of fear of God for the people.  As a result they are credited with causing many to stumble and fall into sin (vs 8).  

We look at “fear” of The Lord like it’s a bad thing, but remember it is fear of The Lord that keeps us from sin (Exodus 20:20; Job 28:28; Proverbs 3:7, 8:13, 14:27, 16:6).  

As a result, selfishness reigned, flesh was indulged and sin surfaced in many ways.  Once sin surfaces… what’s next?  Normalize it.  To relieve conviction, and guilt - call it ok.  We make statements like, “God’s love is unconditional.”  “He loves you, and accepts you no matter how you act”.  Is that True?  Be careful how you answer.  Perhaps review John 14:21 and 1 Peter 1:16 first.  His Grace is INDEED sufficient, and is freely given to ALL who REPENT (Acts 3:19).  There it is… there’s the key.  Humble REPENTANCE.  It doesn’t come in justification of sin.

Furthermore; in our effort to call sin ok, to normalize it - we in turn make obedience, and pursuit of righteousness a bad thing.  We label it an unreasonable expectation, excessive - radical.  “The bar is too high!”

Guys THAT was Judah’s problem!  They made evil good and good evil then wondered where Gods justice went.  Look back at verse 17.

Now, look around… Isn’t that where we find our world today?  Even much of The Church (Isaiah 5:20)?

Love you all!  Dig in and live it out!

Good Morning “Successful”.  Today we are in Malachi 1.

 The Temple is completed about 516 BC.  All is well!  The people have returned to The Lord and are honoring Him with their worship and their lives… for a bit.  By the middle of the next century… say 50 years ish… they have again fallen away.  They once again became corrupt.  Injustice filled the city.  Even their sacrifices have become tainted.  Once again, God is not content to let them throw their lives away without a Word.  He sends “His Messenger” Malachi.

 ““I have loved you,” says the Lord. “But you ask, ‘How have you loved us?…”!Malachi‬ ‭1‬:‭2‬a NIV‬‬

Their hearts drifted and it affected every aspect of their worship.  They began to offer God less than their best, leftovers, less than perfect animals even. God would rather someone shut the door to the Temple than to continue to allow tainted, “going through the motions” worship (vs 10). He’s not impressed with our “acts of worship” but instead desires “hearts of worship”, “Holy pure and pleasing to God” (Romans 12:1).  

“… The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.””
‭‭1 Samuel‬ ‭16‬:‭7‬b NIV‬‬  Remember David? He was far from sinless… He truly wanted what God wanted. “… I have found David son of Jesse, a man after my own heart; he will do everything I want him to do.’” Acts‬ ‭13‬:‭22‬b NIV‬‬

Judah embraced their flesh, turned from God, yet continued to go through the motions.  It’s almost like they believed they could “fool” God and thus avoid His judgment.  Ha ha, it doesn’t work that way.  He sees ALL!  David knew it (Psalm 139:1-18)… It seems the depth of David’s understanding of Gods character kept Him close!  We too can learn and know the character of God.  The keeping power of The Word of God is immeasurable (Joshua 1:8, Psalm 119:9-11, James 4:7-8, Galatians 5:16)

Love you all!  Dig in and live it out!

Good Morning “Holy Set Apart”.  Today we finish Zechariah with chapter 14.

Zechariah continues with prophecy regarding the 2nd coming of Jesus.  Likely if you’ve read this chapter, pieces of the description of His return reminded you of details.  Perhaps the most stirring detail is found in vs 5… “…Then the Lord my God will come, and all the holy ones with him.” Zechariah‬ ‭14‬:‭5‬b NIV‬‬

Sound familiar?  

“The armies of heaven were following him, riding on white horses and dressed in fine linen, white and clean.” Revelation‬ ‭19‬:‭14‬ ‭NIV‬‬

God will raise the nations against Jerusalem.  There will be a war, but Jesus returns to fight for His people - with the armies of Heaven.  The Mount of Olives will be split, no need for protection from the mountain anymore.  Living Water ever flowing East and West.  Jerusalem will never again be a place of terror.  Jesus will light the Millennial Kingdom (Revelation 21:23).  

All the remaining enemies of Gods people will stricken with a horrible plague, they will panic and even turn on each other.

Even ordinary things will all be set apart for Gods Glory… “Holy to The Lord” vs 20-21. The very definition of Holy is “dedicated or set apart to”.

Wait a minute… we, apart from Jesus were once “ordinary things”.  But, that old person is gone… we are made new in Jesus  (2 Corinthians 5:17).  

By His Grace we are saved, and specifically set apart.  We are made Holy through His Blood, for  good works which He prepared in advance for us to do.  There is no shortage of verses to explain this expectation (1 Corinthians 6:11; Ephesians 2:8-10; 2 Timothy 2:21; 2 Corinthians 6:17; 1 Peter 2:9; 1 Peter 1:16; Romans 12:1)

Ordinary things will be labeled “Holy to The Lord” - everything set apart for His Glory.  Everyone will recognize them as such.  We are Holy (set apart) now.  For His Glory and His Work. Are we recognized as such?  

Love you all!  Dig in and live it out!

Good Morning “Receivers”.  Today we are in Zechariah 13.

Here God through Zechariah reminds us Messiah Jesus (the fountain) first came to atone for the sin of the world.  Salvation is there for the taking!  

The time is coming when He will sift True Believers from the rest of mankind. First The Rapture (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17; Corinthians 15:51-52; Revelation 3:10).  Then, yet another chance for all who remain… Tribulation (Matthew 24:21; Daniel 12:1; Revelation 7:14).  Then… He will return the Triumphant King (Revelation 19:11-16) they failed to recognize (Isaiah 53:12).  Even during the Millennial Kingdom, Grace is extended (Micah 4:1-2, Isaiah 2:2-3)… sadly there will still be those who reject it!  
 
Given Gods Word through Zechariah and the rest of the prophetic record, we have no question Jesus was and is The Messiah, and He will fulfill IT ALL!  Consider just a few other OT passages which paint a beautiful picture of Salvation through the coming Messiah, and the price He paid.  They were prophesying future events, some that we have now seen.  Yet, it’s clear… He has always been!  (Micah 5; Psalm 22; Isaiah 53)

He was indeed struck down, and His crucifixion resulted in the scattering of His “sheep,”His disciples (Matthew 26:31; Mark 14:27; John 10:12).  Even in the scattering God was working. The Disciples were at least temporarily protected.  Their faith was tested and solidified (Job 23:10).  Furthermore; The Gospel was both preserved and spread throughout the nations!  God is always at work, and never playing catch up!  Nothing is ever out of His control.  He works in and through it ALL to extend His Grace to all who would receive it!

Love you all!  Dig in and live it out!

Good Morning “Mourners”. Today we are in Zechariah 12.

In today’s chapter God gives us further prophecy regarding Judah, Jerusalem and the beginnings of their awakening.  There will come a time when the veil will be lifted (Romans 11).

God will supernaturally protect Jerusalem in the day that the nations come against her.  The manner of His protection will leave no doubt in the minds of onlookers… “Then the clans of Judah will say in their hearts, ‘The people of Jerusalem are strong, because the Lord Almighty is their God.’”
‭‭Zechariah‬ ‭12‬:‭5‬ ‭NIV‬‬

God will destroy all the nations that attack Jerusalem as prophesied (vs 9).

Jesus IS the Messiah!  There will come a time when a Remnant of Israel will not only worship Him; they will grieve, family by family, for how they had once
rejected Him. We see it also in Revelation 1:5b-7.  

They are not weeping out of terror here.  They are mourning - in anguish.  With the veil removed they are broken over their sin, and once rejection of Messiah (Hosea 5:15; Matthew 23:37-39).  Their people, their fathers crucified The Lord of Glory!  Yet, God will pour out His Grace on the repentant, believing, Remnant of David’s house, and Jerusalem.  Not one of continued judgment and wrath, but having turned them to repentance… Grace!  

May we never forget that although we were not present at His trial, we drove the nails just the same.  Our sin, made necessary His sacrifice.  We have no veil blinding us from The Truth.  Do we mourn?  For it is in our mourning, our brokenness over sin that Jesus comforts (Matthew 5:4).  

Love you all!  Dig in and live it out!

Good Morning “Sheep in The Fold”.  Today we are in Zechariah 11.

In this chapter Zechariah gives us both short term prophecy we’ve already seen happen, and long term prophesy we await.  The images he portrays beautifully, are horrific when understood.  

The strength of Lebanon (her cedars) will be  destroyed. Judgment is coming from the north through the mountain passes (doors) of Lebanon and Israel.

Zechariah acts out the literal feeding of the sheep, (Gods people) representing The rejected Lord.  The two staffs Favor and Union recognize Gods favor over chosen Israel and the special union He had with Her… both broken during the siege of Jerusalem.  This continues, and will until “The Remnant” of Israel repents.  Furthermore the “Union” between Israel and Judah one day to be restored.

Many argue the meaning of the three shepherds (vs 8).  I believe them likely to represent the prophets, priests and kings who had helped lead to Israel’s rejection of God. The offices of prophet, priest, and king were taken away from Israel after the Roman conquest of Judea and have never been restored – because they are now fulfilled in Jesus Christ.

Letting the “dying die” speaks to God removing His hand of protection (vs 9 horrific)… “let those who are left eat each other’s flesh”.  This actually happened in A.D. 70 during the Roman siege of Jerusalem.  We will see such horrors again.  

Likely when you read “30 pieces”of silver it sparked something in you.  Yup… this is the prophecy fulfilled by Judas upon Jesus.  Every specific detail fulfilled. (Matthew 26:15, 27:3-10).  

They rejected the “Good Shepherd”, and put Him on The Cross.  Before He returns God will raise up a “worthless shepherd” (vs 17) who will NOT care for the people (vs 16).  You all know who that is.  He will rule, though long enough… not for long.

Parts of this prophecy have already been specifically fulfilled.  The rest indeed will.  We can see the stage being set. Are you ready? Jesus is coming to redeem and shepherd His Flock.  (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17; 1 Corinthians 15:51-52). Have you joined His sheepfold?

Love you all!  Dig in and live it out!

Good Morning “Joy Seekers”.  Today we are in Zechariah 10.

Let it rain, let it rain!  If and when it rains it is because The Lord brings it!  He is The Provider.  Judah put their trust in idols, diviners and false teachers all of which proved empty (a lesson for us all).  Thus they wandered through life aimlessly, like sheep without a shepherd.  With no guidance from our Shepherd we, like them, fail miserably.  Each one does what is right in their own eyes… but remember we look through the our sin lenses.

Understand the false teachings of the false teacher are exposed when the people KNOW Gods Word! It’s really as simple as that (Acts 17:11)!  Without Gods Word we are vulnerable to any teaching the world throws at us… especially that which entertains our flesh (Psalm 119:105, Proverbs 14:12).  We’re easily convinced when what we’re taught says yes to what our flesh wants!

The prophecy given here is clear!  Within in it we see definite Millennial Kingdom references.  God will restore His people Israel.  From all the tribes of Israel!  They, at least a remnant, WILL BELIEVE in Messiah, and return to Jerusalem.  Not simply a physical returning to the land… but in belief!  God will restore them through His rain (His Holy Spirit).  Messiah Jesus will rule!  He will be their strength, their comfort and their joy!  Their EVERYTHING!  

Truth is, He is that for us now… if we are in Him (John 15:1-17).  

Love you all!  Dig in and live it out!

Good Morning “Those Who See”.  Today we are in Zechariah 9.

Chapters 9-11 gives us prophecy of the coming Messiah, Jesus, and His rejection by His own people.  Chapters 12-14 follow with the inspired account of Jesus’ second coming and His acceptance by the repentant Remnant.

Israel’s rejection of Messiah shouldn’t surprise us.  Jesus did not come as many had imagined.  They were already accustomed to making their beliefs and their worship into what fed their flesh. Their rejection of Him, even The Cross - was just the culmination of the natural consequence of a people used to ignoring The Word of God.

These chapters, together with the rest of prophecy, stand as evidence that they ALL knew!  At least they should have.  They should have known the manner in which Messiah was coming and recognized it as fulfilled prophecy.  Together with the disciples there was at least a remnant who did! They all cried out, “Hosanna!” which literally translates, “Save us now!” Surely, they saw Jesus as the fulfillment of Zechariah’s prediction.  Yet, through His trials they remained silent.

Matthew Mark and Luke all refer back to today’s prophecy (Matthew 21:2-5, Mark 11:1-9, Luke 19:28-35).  Jesus fulfilled this prophecy to the letter - as He will the rest.

When Jesus comes a second time, it will not be as the humble Prince who rides His donkey through the streets while His disciples herald his arrival. No, in the second coming, He will present Himself as the Warrior King on the white horse of victorious judgment, with the “armies of Heaven” (Revelation 19).  It is then that He will take His throne ruling in perfect righteousness and justice.  

For those in intimate communion with Jesus through His Word, we SHOULD see the end coming for it has been prophesied. “Should”… if our flesh will allow it.  

Love you all!  Dig in and live it out!

Good Morning “Limitless Faith.”  Today we are in Zechariah 8.

“Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us,”
‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭3‬:‭20‬ ‭NIV‬‬

What if we limit our prayers because of our lack of true Biblical maturity, and spiritual intimacy with our Savior - our God?  

Walk with me here for a moment… imagine you are Moses, fleeing Egypt with Gods people.  They’re bearing down on you but you’re keeping your distance.  Oh man… The Red Sea.  Now what?  Would you have the faith to ask God to part the waters… so that you could walk through?  How about the audacity to ask for dry land to escape on - not feet of mud and sludge and vegetation?  Would you even “imagine” that to be the solution?  Now everyone, millions, are thirsty… how about water from a rock.  Would you ask?  Hungry… food from heaven, raining down?  These miracles are NOTHING for The One that breathed IT ALL into existence.  Just think of what God has shown us through His Word!  Do we believe It?  We first have to know The Bible, and through It, Him - to believe it!

Judah had these historical Truths as well.  Yet… Gods promises seemed nearly impossible to them (vs 6).  Saving Judah from the West (those who believe Grace comes without accountability), and from the East (discipline without relationship) will be a piece of cake.  In fact He will even bring true believers from each (vs 7).  No generation, NO ONE can stand against Him.

Even when the world will seem to be a total loss, with The Anti-Christ ruling… He will “simply” begin to carry out His Plan.   (Revelation 19).  When He’s ready!  In that day… He won’t rebuild Jerusalem brick by brick, but “simply” (yeah, for Him it’s simple) bring Jerusalem down from heaven (Revelation 21).

Does that seem far fetched?  Would we ever think to pray something like that? Perhaps we need more personal time in His Word, growing to know Him intimately?  Then and only then do our prayers begin to line up with His heart and mind (John 15:7)!  Sometimes He answers without us even imagining to ask; but the intimate relationship allows us to  participate in the process. Limitless!!!

Love you all!  Dig in and live it out!

Good Morning “Understanders of Gods Grace.” Today we are in Zechariah 7.  

Judah had returned from Babylonian exile.  The Temple reconstruction was about half done.  While in exile they became accustomed to fasting during the 5th and 7th months of the year.  

The fast in the fifth month commemorated the destruction of the temple (2 Kings 25:8-9).  The fast in the 7th month remembered the murder of Gedaliah, the last act of rebellion against the Babylonian governor of Judah (2 Kings 25:25).  It appears they observed these fasts the entire time they were in exile - 70 years or so. The question is… now that they are back in Jerusalem should they continue (vs 3)?

The summary of Gods answer was simple “Who was this fasting for?” (vs 5)  You see God never commanded these fasts.  They instituted them.  Then they practiced them for so long they began to carry the same weight as the ordinances God DID command.  It was yet another way they made their worship what they wanted.  They commingled their worship of God with their worship of their flesh and EVERYTHING else.  

The fasting in and of its self was not wrong… but they weren’t doing it for God.  They were doing it for themselves.  Gods specific in what He requires of us and isn’t impressed when we attempt to add to it… especially to serve ourselves (Mark 7:7-9; Colossians 2:8, 22-23).

Instead God reiterated to them what He really wanted from them… their hearts.  Which ultimately would be fleshed out in the way they treated each other (vs 9-10).  (John 13:35)

Over and over He pleaded with them simply to turn back to Him fully.  They thought they had it “figured out”.

“They made their hearts as hard as flint and would not listen to the law or to the words that the Lord Almighty had sent by his Spirit through the earlier prophets. So the Lord Almighty was very angry. “ ‘When I called, they did not listen; so when they called, I would not listen,’ says the Lord Almighty.” Zechariah‬ ‭7‬:‭12‬-‭13‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Our unrepentant sin hinders our prayers. Our unrepentant sin puts distance between us and God.  It separates us from Him as we often say (Psalm 66:18; Isaiah 59:2; 1 Peter 3:7; Proverbs 28:9; James 4:3; Mark 11:25).  

Don’t let ANYONE ever tell you that Gods Grace means He has no expectations for the way we live after salvation.  That kind of junk is out there.  It’s a pure lie from the pit (Leviticus 19:2; 1 Peter 1:15-16)!  His Grace means we are forgiven despite our sin… through the Blood of Jesus, but where our hearts are at matters.  Repentance is the key (Acts 3:19).  

Love you all!  Dig in and live it out!

Good Morning “Holy Temples”. Today we are in Zechariah 6.

“Mountains of bronze” speak to strength and judgment.  What Zechariah saw were four angels (“spirits of heaven”) going out into the world, without haste.  The colors of the chariot horses seem to correlate with different judgments.  If we compare them with the horses of apocalypse  we see in Revelation 6, we might conclude that red = war, black = famine /death,  white = conquest / victory, and the dappled = pestilence.  Judgment was sure… how do we know?  Because of what follows next.  Sin results in judgment, a sentence we can never pay.  God has One solution to the world’s sin, One Way (John 14:6).  The answer to the sin of the world is found in the next section.

Priests weren’t kings and kings weren’t to be priests.  King Uzziah tried that… it didn’t go so well (2 Chronicles 26:16-21). So what’s going on here?  Pay attention to the language (vs 12).  We’ve already seen this Branch in Zechariah 3:8.  Who was it then?  Who was it in Isaiah 4:2, 11:1; Jeremiah 23:5, 33:15?  

So… we must deduce the crown on the head of Joshua the High Priest is representative of the coming King of Kings.  Our High Priest (Hebrews 4:15-16).  We must also deduce that we are not only talking about a physical temple here.  The text points clearly to The Temple of The Living God (Ephesians 2:19-22; 1 Peter 2:5).  Tell me how cool that is!  

Love you all!  Dig in and live it out!

Good Morning “Sin Leavers.”  Today we are in Zechariah 5.  

Let’s talk about the imagery we see in the two visions given in today’s chapter.  Many believe the flying scroll represents ALL of the sin of Gods people, not just the 2 sins listed.  They suggest ALL of the sins of the 10 commandments are represented here - the sins on each of the two tablets.  They get the idea from the two sins listed on the two sides of the scroll vs 3. “Swearing falsely by the name of The Lord… or “You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain” appears on the first tablet of stone, and “You shall not steal” appears on the 2nd (Exodus 31:18, Exodus 20).  Suffice it to say sin is represented.

The basket indeed represents the sin of the people throughout the land (vs 6).  But why a basket with a lead disk?  The basket together with the lead disc was a traditional form of measurement for wheat, etc.  The disc and the basket were an ephah.  An ephah of grain weighed as much as the disc when placed in the basket.  When Gods people came out of captivity they had an issue with materialism that drove them to be dishonest in their business dealings.  Thus, God addresses it here.

The basket, together with the sin it contained or represented was taken back to Babylon where it should stay (vs11).

God disciplines in such a way that we become convicted of our sin, repent and turn from it so that we might be reconciled to Him (Hebrews 12:4-13).  God will remove our sin as far as the east is from the west (Psalm 103:12).  He makes us a new creation (2 Corinthians 5:17).  Why would we then carry our sin with us?  Repentance dictates we leave it behind.  Seems silly to return to it.  As revolting as it is when we see the dog return to its vomit! (Proverbs 26:11-12; II Peter 2:22)

Love you all!  Dig in and live it out!

Good Morning “Foundation Builders.”  Today we are in Zechariah 4.  

“So he said to me, “This is the word of the Lord to Zerubbabel: ‘Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,’ says the Lord Almighty.” Zechariah‬ ‭4‬:‭6‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Zerubbabel was given the job of rebuilding the physical Temple.  Another, known as the “Son of David, Jesus, would come later.  He has gone ahead of us, not just to build another Temple, but to prepare a whole New Jerusalem for those who faithfully believe in Him.

Both understood the most important part of any project is the foundation.  Builders understand much care must be given to the foundation and even the soil underneath, if the building is going to stand securely.  

The same is true for The Temple of The Living God. Us! We often want to jump ahead to the fruit… the “big stuff”.  “People gotta see me, I gotta save someone.” (P.S. we save NO ONE).  But God tells us that we should not despise the day of “small things” (Zechariah 4:10).  There is power in doing simple things diligently: Bible study, prayer, seeking His will above ours, serving within The Body (Joshua 1:8, Romans 12:1-2).

You may not be a huge “fruit producer” initially. But spiritual disciplines are “foundation builders,” growing seeds of readiness & righteousness. The Lord; in His timing, by The Holy Spirit (John 14:26), provides the might & strength needed for spiritual success, according to His will - which we learn from reading His Word.

Love you all! Dig in and live it out!

Good Morning “Washed in The Blood”.  Today we are in Zechariah 3.

“Then he showed me Joshua the high priest standing before the angel of the Lord, and Satan standing at his right side to accuse him.” Zechariah‬ ‭3‬:‭1‬ ‭NIV‬‬
Satan… the never-ceasing accuser of God’s people. We see Satan the Accuser throughout Scripture (Job 1:8-11; Luke 22:31-32).

But we have an advocate.  One that testifies on our behalf!  Not because of anything we have done but because of His Grace (Ephesians 2:8-9).  

“My dear children, I write this to you so that you will not sin. But if anybody does sin, we have an advocate with the Father—Jesus Christ, the Righteous One. He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world.”
‭‭1 John‬ ‭2‬:‭1‬-‭2‬ ‭NIV‬‬

God’s great grace and mercy is that, even though Joshua was standing next to Satan the Accuser and was wearing filthy clothes (instead of the usual spotless garments of the priesthood), God rebuked Satan before he could speak. And He gave Joshua new clothes. As the high priest, whose job was to offer the atoning sacrifice for the sins of the community - new clothes for Joshua meant forgiveness for the community (Isaiah 1:18; Revelation 19:7-14).

Who could ask for more? With our repentance, Satan is silenced, and righteousness is extended by grace.  It’s all through the Messiah… Jesus, Jesus, Jesus!

Love you all!  Dig in and live it out!

Good Morning “Future Anticipators.” Today we are in Zechariah 2.

There is a lot going on in this chapter of Zechariah. In the short term Jerusalem was protected during the rebuilding phase, especially under Ezra and Nehemiah.  Ultimately she will experience The Lords protection through the Millennial Kingdom.  Hoards of people will descend upon the Holy City in that time… the point being made by the measuring.  Perhaps you recall the very detailed description of the rebuilding, the organization of worship, even the flow of people through Ezekiel chapters 40-48

Unfortunately during this time, many had become quite comfortable in their exiled lives in Babylon… hence the urging “Come, Zion! Escape, you who live in Daughter Babylon!” Zechariah‬ ‭2‬:‭7‬ ‭NIV‬‬  

How many of us go on living our worldly lives, content to be fed kernels of happiness’s and pleasure from the world while Gods abundant life awaits?

Speaking of the long term prophecy here… we must employ what we’ve learned.  Pay special attention to the exact language.  Who’s speaking?  What do we know about future end time events… when will these events occur?  It’s AWESOME.  “Many nations will be joined with the Lord in that day and will become my people. I will live among you and you will know that the Lord Almighty has sent me to you. Zechariah‬ ‭2‬:‭11‬ ‭NIV‬‬

That day is coming!!!

Love you all!  Dig in and live it out!

Good Morning “Welcomers of Grace.” Today we are in Zechariah 1.

The prophet Zechariah brought Gods Word to Judah beginning around the 2nd year of King Darius.  If you’re tracking along you’re thinking… wait, that’s around the same time as Haggai preached to Judah.  You would be correct - within just a couple months.  Zechariah also called Judah to repentance, encouraged them as they were rebuilding, and delivered a series of both near and future term prophecies.  

Here God through Zechariah makes it clear - with their repentance He will restore and bless Judah.  Additionally He will punish Judahs enemies.  The fact that God used them to bring about Judahs repentance does not somehow remove the impending judgment for their own sin. God will punish them for the severity with which they dealt with Judah (vs 14-15).

God is always Just!  Sin will be dealt with One Way or another.  His Perfect Holy Character cannot have it any other way (Romans 6:23).  As we read through the book of Zechariah Gods plan for future salvation and redemption and ultimate restoration will be made clear.  

One would think the deliverer of  such great news would be welcomed and honored.  Understand as we read, Zechariah was not!  Perhaps you recall Jesus Words in Matthew 23.  Review vs 29-39 as He addressed the false teachers of His day.  Gods Grace, as weird as it sounds, can be offensive to the one who is unwilling to submit and let go of their own way - their own lies.

Love you all!  Dig in and live it out!

Good Morning “Holy Temples”.  Today we are in Haggai 2.

Yesterday we looked at the 1st Word from The Lord given through Haggai.  In short… “Get your priorities straight, and get back to work on my temple.”  We acknowledged this was not just a command to build a building but to build their faith, grow in Him, build His Kingdom.  The same distorted priorities limit our growth and service as well.

The 2nd Word from The Lord had to do with Greater Glory that would be present in this temple.  Judah was missing the point.  They looked only at their limited resources, the outer beauty of the physical temple they were building, as it related to the splendor of Solomon’s temple constructed with near unlimited resources.  God reminded them that ALL the gold and silver was His.  In other words if He wanted it there, He could provide it for them.  Instead he was asking for them to sacrifice what they had.  It’s not the monetary size of the gift it’s self but the size of the heart behind it.  He urges them to continue in Faith, knowing He is with them.  What of this Glory He speaks of?  Jesus will indeed visit THIS temple, and teach there, turn over the tables of the money changers… etc (Matthew 21, 26:55).  Although Herod will eventually expand it greatly, this is the NT physical  temple.  THIS temple, and not just the building - built with pure, sacrificial hearts.  The Glory of The Messiah in The Flesh!  Truly a level of Glory Solomon’s temple never experienced.

The 3rd Word from The Lord had to do with clean and unclean.  Will it be Holy or unclean?  The Priests answered Gods line of questioning correctly according to Mosaic Law… but God wasn’t talking about traditional sacrifices.  He was calling them to something deeper.  Holiness is not contagious but disease or in this case “impurity” is.  Consider this metaphor:  When someone is sick they cannot catch health from a healthy person.  But, a healthy person can catch sickness from a sick one (1 Corinthians 15:33). Normally, the principle of transmission only works one way. In the same way, living in the Holy Land and offering sacrifices would not make the people acceptable, as long as they themselves were unclean through the neglect of the house of the LORD.  Again we’re reminded… God wants our hearts (Mica 6:8; 1 Samuel 15:22)!

Hopefully, as you are reading this chapter you are picking up on the subtle nods to our coming Messiah Jesus; The Temple of The Living God (The collective church 2 Corinthians 6:14-18, 7:1) and His Glory that will be revealed through Her (Romans 8:18-20).

Love you all!  Dig in and live it out!

Good Morning “Priority Organizers”.  Today we are in Haggai 1.

King Cyrus of Persia conquered Babylon in 539BC.  God used this pagan king to begin allowing His people to return to Jerusalem to rebuild their Temple.  They constructed and dedicated the foundation but work was halted after some interaction with neighboring enemies who had some influence in the Persian court (Ezra 4:4-6:22).  Sixteen years later King Darius takes the throne, and God raises up Haggai the prophet to urge the Jews to continue their work.  God through Haggai specifically calls on Zerubbabel the governor and Joshua the High Priest to continue the construction.  

The people of Judah were going about life, living in their own reconstructed, even paneled houses… yet the Temple still lied in ruins.  They returned to aspects of their old way of life… yet had discounted the Temple and worship within it.  They had interest, time, resources energies to rebuild their houses, yet none for the Temple.  Gods message is clear, He has withheld the moisture and squelched their crop yields because of their messed up priorities.  

Many lessons lie in these passages for us.  When it comes to our focus, our efforts, our energies, our resources, even our finances… where do our priorities lie?  Scripture is clear… we cannot out give God with any of it (Proverbs 11:24-25; Malachi 3:10).  Are we so focused on building our own lives we miss the gift of growing in and serving our Lord?

Love you all!  Dig in and live it out!