Friday, March 31, 2006

Mark - Glory to the Lamb

Glory to the Lamb

Mark 10:38 But Jesus said unto them, 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?

Mat 26:38 Then saith he unto them, My soul is exceeding sorrowful, even unto death: tarry ye here, and watch with me.
Mat 26:39 And he went a little farther, and fell on his face, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt.

What was this cup? An expression we might use would be, can we walk in his shoes?

Jesus was to suffer accusations, be beaten, spit upon, whipped, body torn, nailed to a cross, every joint disconnected in agony, but the worst of all was that he who is God, pure and undefiled would take upon himself our sin and shame, even in the body of his flesh, his holy blood shed, and he would be separated for a short time from the Father who is separated from sin.

Mat 27:46 And about the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying, Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani? that is to say, My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?

Imagine eternal God, being separated even for a moment from His glory. And yet, Jesus began His earthly ministry by putting away much of what he was of God. He lowered himself and took on the form of a man and became a servant.

Phil 2:6 Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God:
Phil 2:7 But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men:

Mark 10:39 And they said unto him, We can. And Jesus said unto them, Ye shall indeed drink of the cup that I drink of; and with the baptism that I am baptized withal shall ye be baptized:

They would follow Jesus and be persecuted, yet their blood shed held no power, it was the blood of Jesus that has saved us from our sin.

Mark 10:40 But to sit on my right hand and on my left hand is not mine to give; but it shall be given to them for whom it is prepared.

Let God decide who will receive the most glory and honor. I believe that this is reserved for the Father and the Son.

Rev 5:11 And Ibeheld, and I heard the voice of many angels round about the throne and the beasts and the elders: and the number of them was ten thousand times ten thousand, and thousands of thousands;
Rev 5:12 Saying with a loud voice, Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honour, and glory, and blessing.
Rev 5:13 And every creature which is in heaven, and on the earth, and under the earth, and such as are in the sea, and all that are in them, heard I saying, Blessing, and honour, and glory, and power, be unto him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb for ever and ever.

Eaglewings Topical Bible Studies

Thursday, March 30, 2006

Mark - Self centered honor seekers

Self centered honor seekers

Mark 10:32 And they were in the way going up to Jerusalem; and Jesus went before them: and they were amazed; and as they followed, they were afraid. And he took again the twelve, and began to tell them what things should happen unto him,

As the journeyed to Jerusalem, they were still amazed at the things Jesus had said regarding leaving all behind and following him, and that the rich hardily can enter into the kingdom of God. They had left all to follow him, so they were wondering just what rewards they would receive, what honor in the kingdom of God.

Jesus had something important to share, but it was not about them, but himself. Have you noticed that when we are not the center of attention we sometimes do not hear others when they speak of themselves? Jesus was about to enter Jerusalem and all the evil of the world would be placed on his body, he would carry our sins to the cross.

Mark 10:33 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:

Again he tells of this event, the purpose of him coming; to shed his blood for us.

Mark 10:34 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.

That should have placed his disciples in true amazement and shock, but they acted as if they did not hear him. They were thinking of their own honor. Lord spare us from ourselves and others whose purpose is to look good before others. Please, may we not be so self centered.

Mark 10:35 And James and John, the sons of Zebedee, come unto him, saying, Master, we would that thou shouldest do for us whatsoever we shall desire.

They did not hear a word that he said, they were still seeking their own honor. We had better listen to God and the Word of Jesus.

Mark 10:36 And he said unto them, What would ye that I should do for you?
Mark 10:37 They said unto him, Grant unto us that we may sit, one on thy right hand, and the other on thy left hand, in thy glory.

Do we hear the gospel message? Do we share it with others? Or are we only seeking our own honor and our own importance?

Eaglewings Ministries

Wednesday, March 29, 2006

Mark - The last shall be first

 

Last shall be first

Mark 10:28 Then Peter began to say unto him, Lo, we have left all, and have followed thee.

The rich young man left Jesus when he was told to give his riches to the poor, and to follow Jesus. Peter, who saw Jesus as the Christ, the Son of the living God, speaks up that he and the other eleven had given up all and have followed him. All but Judas Iscariot who coveted money. It would be Judas' love of money that would cause him to betray the Lord.

Mark 10:29 And Jesus answered and said, Verily I say unto you, There is no man that hath left house, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my sake, and the gospel's,
Mark 10:30 But he shall receive an hundredfold now in this time, houses, and brethren, and sisters, and mothers, and children, and lands, with persecutions; and in the world to come eternal life.

You can't outgive the Lord. If we leave family, we will receive many more in their place. There will be no lack of houses to receive you. Also persecutions; to follow Jesus identifies us with the one the world hated and rejected, for no reason of his own, it was their sins.

John 3:19 And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil.

It will be worth it to leave all things for Jesus and to receive persecutions with the new family of saints. The reward is eternal life in the kingdom to come.

Mat 6:9 After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.
Mat 6:10 Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.
Mat 6:11 Give us this day our daily bread.
Mat 6:12 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.
Mat 6:13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.

Mark 10:31 But many that are first shall be last; and the last first.

Prominence in the world of church does not make one necessarily above a humble prayer person. God looks upon the heart and some who receive him at the last minute shall receive as much as a long time servant. God rewards in his way as in the parable of the laborers.

Mat 20:8 So when even was come, the lord of the vineyard saith unto his steward, Call the labourers, and give them their hire, beginning from the last unto the first.
Mat 20:9 And when they came that were hired about the eleventh hour, they received every man a penny.
Mat 20:10 But when the first came, they supposed that they should have received more; and they likewise received every man a penny.
Mat 20:11 And when they had received it, they murmured against the goodman of the house,
Mat 20:12 Saying, These last have wrought but one hour, and thou hast made them equal unto us, which have borne the burden and heat of the day.
Mat 20:13 But he answered one of them, and said, Friend, I do thee no wrong: didst not thou agree with me for a penny?
Mat 20:14 Take that thine is, and go thy way: I will give unto this last, even as unto thee.
Mat 20:15 Is it not lawful for me to do what I will with mine own? Is thine eye evil, because I am good?
Mat 20:16 So the last shall be first, and the first last: for many be called, but few chosen.

If we are chosen we all benefit by the Lord's grace, not by our works but by his grace. If we are not truly his, we lose out. What is greater than following our Lord unto eternal life? Every good work for the Lord shall be rewarded.

Mat 5:11 Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake.
Mat 5:12 Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you.

Eaglewings Testimonies

Tuesday, March 28, 2006

Mark - At ease in Zion

At ease in Zion

Mark 10:24 And the disciples were astonished at his words.

They were astonished, amazed and frightened with his words. When we see what God thinks of our sin, it should frighten us. Why is wealth a sin? Remember, Jesus said give it to the poor and follow me. Wealth for this one was to be given away, for he had placed too much of his heart in his wealth and not enough in following his "good teacher." Jesus was not Lord of his life.

1 Tim 6:10 For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.
1 Tim 6:11 But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness.
1 Tim 6:12 Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses.

Well, this applies only to those who love money? Does anyone claim to hate money? Are we all ready to give it away if Jesus asks us to? He must be Lord, in him we give our trust, not in money or insurance, these may fail but Jesus never fails, he is with us forever.

Mark 10:24 But Jesus answereth again, and saith unto them, Children, how hard is it for them that trust in riches to enter into the kingdom of God!
Mark 10:25 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.

Some have taught that the eye of the needle was a narrow gate in Jerusalem. There is no such gate. The needle is to be taken literally. An impossibility with man to love riches and also enter heaven.

Mark 10:26 And they were astonished out of measure, saying among themselves, Who then can be saved?

Now they were really concerned, amazed and fearful. What is our reaction to this? What about all the prosperity teaching?

Mark 10:27 And Jesus looking upon them saith, With men it is impossible, but not with God: for with God all things are possible.

Trust in God through Jesus, give all to him. For as you give to him he gives to you more of what you need.

Luke 6:38 Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.

If money is a problem with you, he will meet your needs and give you grace to follow him. If money is given willingly to God's needs, he will increase this as well. Wealth is not so we can lay around at ease. All is to be for the glory of God.

Amos 6:1 Woe to them that are at ease in Zion, and trust (in other things.)

Monday, March 27, 2006

Mark - Treasure in Heaven

Treasure in Heaven

Mark 10:19 Thou knowest the commandments, Do not commit adultery, Do not kill, Do not steal, Do not bear false witness, Defraud not, Honour thy father and mother.

The young man wanted to know how to be saved. Jesus answers with what most Jews thought was their way to the kingdom of God. Have you done all these things? Have you Kept the commandments?

Mark 10:20 And he answered and said unto him, Master, all these have I observed from my youth.

He thought that he was saved by keeping all the law. In his own eyes he thought he had, but God sees with perfect eyes, unclouded by sin.

Mark 10:21 Then Jesus beholding him loved him, and said unto him, 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.

He put his finger on the one sin that the man had that he did not want to give up, trusting in riches, covetousness. Jesus then told him the way: deny yourself and follow Jesus. Take up your cross, put your sins and self will to death, and follow and obey Jesus.

Mark 10:22 And he was sad at that saying, and went away grieved: for he had great possessions.

He could not go past the first requirement, he could not keep the law and could not give up his trust in his own riches. He could not go any further. The law could never be kept, but following Jesus in faith, that we should be able to do.

Mark 10:23 And Jesus looked round about, and saith unto his disciples, How hardly shall they that have riches enter into the kingdom of God!

We can't trust in riches and also Jesus. We must give up one for the other. If we choose Jesus he adds all we need to our account. Often a Christian will equate wealth with God's favor. The young rich man did this. He was unwilling to choose between his own riches and Jesus. He would not give up his treasure on earth and start a treasure in heaven.

Prov 15:16 Better is little with the fear of the LORD than great treasure and trouble therewith.

Mat 6:19 Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal:
Mat 6:20 But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal:
Mat 6:21 For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.

Do we have sins that keep us from trusting completely in Jesus? We give them up and follow him.

Eaglewings Ministries

Wednesday, March 22, 2006

Mark - Why call me good?

Why call me good?

Mark 10:17 And when he was gone forth into the way, there came one running, and kneeled to him, and asked him, Good Master, what shall I do that I may inherit eternal life?

Two things here...the man expected an answer from Jesus who he called good master, or good teacher. Jesus is more than a teacher, he is God the Son, but did this man know this?

Mark 10:18 And Jesus said unto him, Why callest thou me good? there is none good but one, that is, God.

Why do you call me good? Who do you think I am? there is none good but one, that is God. Many unbelievers point to this verse and say...see, Jesus wasn't God. This verse does not say this, it is a test of the man's faith in who Jesus is. No man can come to the Son unless the Father reveals him, and no man can come to the Father without knowing that Jesus is Lord.

Another man was asked who Jesus was.

Mat 16:15 He saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am?
Mat 16:16 And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.
Mat 16:17 And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven.

Where are the unbelievers regarding this verse? He knew that Jesus was the Christ, the Son of God. And, Jesus is one with God.

John 10:30 I and my Father are one.

The man who called Jesus good master, was trusting in his own good works and the law. No man can keep the laws, only Jesus did. Where are the critics when they face God without believing in Jesus? They are cast into the Lake of fire.

Mat 7:23 And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.

Eaglewings New Testament Studies

Tuesday, March 21, 2006

Mark - Bless the Children

Bless the Children

Mark 10:13 And they brought young children to him, that he should touch them: and his disciples rebuked those that brought them.

It is the responsability of the parents to bring their children to Jesus. Children are entrusted to parents to train them up in the way that they should go.

Prov 22:6 Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.

Proud liberal parents often say, let the child choose their path when they are older. These are foolish and rebellious parents. For soon the world gets to the children, they learn the behavior of the world and do not seek the things of God. They have cursed their children as themselves.

Mark 10:14 But when Jesus saw it, he was much displeased, and said unto them, Suffer the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God.

Children love Jesus and Jesus loves them. As children are, we should be: simple, trusting, sincere. For sure children will follow someone, so bring them early to the feet of Jesus.

Mark 10:15 Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child, he shall not enter therein.
Mark 10:16 And he took them up in his arms, put his hands upon them, and blessed them.

Blessing and cursing is in the hands of the parents.

Exo 34:6 And the LORD passed by before him, and proclaimed, The LORD, The LORD God, merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abundant in goodness and truth,
Exo 34:7 Keeping mercy for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin, and that will by no means clear the guilty; visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children, and upon the children's children, unto the third and to the fourth generation.

Bring the children to Jesus, he breaks curses and blesses the children.

Eaglewings Ministries

Monday, March 20, 2006

Mark - Adultery

Adultery

Mark 10:10 And in the house his disciples asked him again of the same matter.

About divorce.

Mark 10:11 And he saith unto them, Whosoever shall put away his wife, and marry another, committeth adultery against her.

Pretty simple answer.

Mark 10:12 And if a woman shall put away her husband, and be married to another, she committeth adultery.

Is there no offense that is not legal grounds for divorce?

Mat 5:32 But I say unto you, That whosoever shall put away his wife, saving for the cause of fornication, causeth her to commit adultery: and whosoever shall marry her that is divorced committeth adultery.

fornication: adultery denotes one "who has unlawful intercourse with the spouse of another," A man who indulges in unlawful sexual intercourse, a fornicator, from the Greek word: pornos Indulging in lusts as from pornography, unclean behavior.

Mat 5:28 But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart.

1 Pet 1:13 Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ;
1 Pet 1:14 As obedient children, not fashioning yourselves according to the former lusts in your ignorance:
1 Pet 1:15 But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation;
1 Pet 1:16 Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.

A Christian has the Holy Spirit within, to keep him or her from adultery. We do not follow the ungodly ways of the world.

Seek forgiveness and the grace of Jesus and sin no more.

Eaglewings Ministries

Sunday, March 19, 2006

Titus - Aged men and women

Aged men and women

Titus 2:2 That the aged men be sober, grave, temperate, sound in faith, in charity, in patience.

After Paul spoke of the importance of sound doctrine in a church, he addresses the need of good examples of those who live by the faith. What better example then those who are elderly in the church, having lived their life as examples of God's grace having proved themselves and the faith by experience.

Aged men be sober, vigilant, watchful

1 Th 5:6 Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober.

They are to watch out for doctrinal error and be guardians with the Pastor.

1 Pet 5:8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:

They have experienced the ways of the devil and live in the way of faith and truth. They know the importance of staying in the word, in prayer and not to foresake the assembling together. The devil likes to pick off the weak and the stragglers.

Be grave, venerated for character, honourable

1 Tim 3:4 One that ruleth well his own house, having his children in subjection with all gravity;

He lives the life before his family and the church and is respected.

1 Tim 3:8 Likewise must the deacons be grave, not doubletongued, not given to much wine, not greedy of filthy lucre;

Temperate, having self control and discipline

1 Cor 9:25 And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible.
1 Cor 9:26 I therefore so run, not as uncertainly; so fight I, not as one that beateth the air:
1 Cor 9:27 But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway.

The flesh is under control and it's lusts.

sound in faith,

Titus 1:13 This witness is true. Wherefore rebuke them sharply, that they may be sound in the faith;
Titus 1:14 Not giving heed to Jewish fables, and commandments of men, that turn from the truth.

Not man pleasers, or having itching ears, but they serve God in Spirit and in truth.

in charity

A man of God is to be a loving man.

1 Cor 13:4 Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up,
1 Cor 13:5 Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil;
1 Cor 13:6 Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth;
1 Cor 13:7 Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.

In patience

A patient man walks in God's spirit and knows the word.

Gal 5:22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,
Gal 5:23 Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.

Eph 4:2 With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love;
Eph 4:3 Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.

Titus 2:3 The aged women likewise, that they be in behaviour as becometh holiness, not false accusers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things;

The aged women likewise, good holy behavior living lives separated unto the Lord, Mary was a holy woman.

Luke 1:42 And she spake out with a loud voice, and said, Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb.
1 Tim 2:14 And Adam was not deceived, but the woman being deceived was in the transgression.
1 Tim 2:15 Notwithstanding she shall be saved in childbearing, if they continue in faith and charity and holiness with sobriety.

Gal 5:13 For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another.
Gal 5:14 For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this; Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.

Not false accusers

Prov 11:13 A talebearer revealeth secrets: but he that is of a faithful spirit concealeth the matter.

Gal 5:15 But if ye bite and devour one another, take heed that ye be not consumed one of another.
Gal 5:16 This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.

Phil 4:2 I beseech Euodias, and beseech Syntyche, that they be of the same mind in the Lord.

2 Tim 3:2 For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy,
2 Tim 3:3 Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good,
2 Tim 3:4 Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God;
2 Tim 3:5 Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.

Not given to much wine

Prov 20:1 Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging: and whosoever is deceived thereby is not wise.

Isa 5:11 Woe unto them that rise up early in the morning, that they may follow strong drink; that continue until night, till wine inflame them!
Isa 5:12 And the harp, and the viol, the tabret, and pipe, and wine, are in their feasts: but they regard not the work of the LORD, neither consider the operation of his hands.

teachers of good things

Mat 12:35 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.

Phil 4:8 Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.
Phil 4:9 Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you.

Titus 2:4 That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children,

The older women are to teach the younger women these things:

To be sober, to be of a sound mind, free of alcohol or drugs, not fearful

2 Tim 1:7 For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.

to love their husbands, to love their children. Love for others...

Eph 5:22 Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord.
Eph 5:23 For the husband is the head of the wife, even asChrist is the head of the church: and he is the saviour of the body.
Eph 5:24 Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in every thing.
Eph 5:25 Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it;

A servants love of husband and children, not a manipulating love.

Titus 2:5 To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed.

To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home. Curbing desires and impulses, keeping herself pure, caring for the home, good hearted and obedient to their own husbands, why? that their example bring not blaspheme to the word of God. It is assumed that both are people of faith. God is a God of order, love and peace. These things should be found in a Christian home.

The church needs godly older men and women to teach and to show how a Christian is to live. They should not be separated from one another, for all will benefit from sharing. We need one another.

Eaglewings New Testament Studies

Thursday, March 16, 2006

Mark - Marriage

Marriage

Mark 10:1 And he arose from thence, and cometh into the coasts of Judaea by the farther side of Jordan: and the people resort unto him again; and, as he was wont, he taught them again.

Prov 29:18 Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he.

Mark 10:2 And the Pharisees came to him, and asked him, Is it lawful for a man to put away his wife? tempting him.
Mark 10:3 And he answered and said unto them, What did Moses command you?

The pharisee was out to discredit Jesus, he chose a topic of controversy, both then and now. The pharisee was to uphold the law; what did Moses command?

Mark 10:4 And they said, Moses suffered to write a bill of divorcement, and to put her away.
Mark 10:5 And Jesus answered and said unto them, For the hardness of your heart he wrote you this precept.

Moses allowed divorce because of your sinful hearts, but what did God say? From the beginning God ordained marriage.

Mark 10:6 But from the beginning of the creation God made them male and female.

Male and female, not the abomination of same sex marriage, God ordained that a man and woman should become one flesh.

Mark 10:7 For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and cleave to his wife;
Mark 10:8 And they twain shall be one flesh: so then they are no more twain, but one flesh.

To cleave is as to be glued together, and they are to leave father and mother and become one flesh. The bond of husband and wife is greater than a child and parent. Not only are they to become one flesh, but also one heart and mind. This is why we must marry a believer.

2 Cor 6:14 Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness?

Mark 10:9 What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.

It is ordained of God, no man shall put this institution of God away, nor shall mankind promote separation and divorce. These are evil worldly views.

Eaglewings Testimonies

Tuesday, March 14, 2006

Mark - Salt without savor

Salt without savor

Mark 9:49 For every one shall be salted with fire, and every sacrifice shall be salted with salt.

Rom 12:1 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.
Rom 12:2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.

It is a shame to see those who call themselves Christian, that run from God, their families and do behavior as bad or worse as the spiritually blind people of the world. Adultery, fornication, pornography, gossip, and other works of a rebellious heart.

Everyone shall be tried of fire, to see what lasting worth comes forth. The flesh and the things that are not of eternal value, they shall perish. Isn't a life to be more than living as an animal by the natural feelings and desires? In many ways animals are better at parenting than are some humans. A bird will feed its young, a bear will protect her cubs...many people only seek their own evil desires and all those around them suffer.

A Christian is to be as the Lord Jesus Christ. As a living sacrifice we are to be salted and to be the salt of the world. We must be salted and cleansed by the blood of Jesus. Then we are to be pure as the salt. We are not empty salt shakers and the salt we have must have not lost it's savor. The shaker is not to be full of the fake salt of the world's opinions and rebellion. Much of the church world are as empty shakers, with nothing to offer the world.

Mark 9:50 Salt is good: but if the salt have lost his saltness, wherewith will ye season it? Have salt in yourselves, and have peace one with another.

Have real salt, a preservative. Have the Holy Spirit within you, the spirit that stops corruption and that brings the peace of Christ.

John 16:7 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.
John 16:8 And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment:
John 16:9 Of sin, because they believe not on me;
John 16:10 Of righteousness, because I go to my Father, and ye see me no more;
John 16:11 Of judgment, because the prince of this world is judged.

John 14:27 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.

We are salted sacrifices for the Lord; if not salted we walk around as dead people, stinking of sin, without life to give to others. We are to be dead to sin and alive to God, a sweet smelling savor, walking in His Spirit.

Eaglewings New Testament Studies

Monday, March 13, 2006

Re: Souls for sale on EBAY

Not surprised to see someone offering their soul for sale on ebay. Many sell their soul to the devil seeking earthly power and rewards, some perhaps do this for a woman. The devil can be in a woman too.  My brother was a WW2 vet,  I see a lot of that generation who were children in the depression. They saw their folks struggle. The 50's came into growth and prosperity, whiskey and women. Playboy magazine was born about the time Billy Graham began preaching. The children of the vets, for the most part knew only prosperity, a spoiled generation. They saw God only as "the old man upstairs" their dad was too busy making money, drinking and trying to please and or to chase women. The "Boomers" dropped "the Christian religion" that really was sort of tradition... The Vietnam war, put rebellion into the hearts of many who were receiving low cost college educations provided by their fathers. They threw out Billy Graham and kept Hugh Hefner, adding many new porn magazines and not only whiskey, but they added drugs and used the slogan "make love not war."  They had already lost the war that was taking place for their souls. Instead of Christian values they became pleasure seekers and seekers of strange mystical religions, powered by drug use, the demons from the drugs, powered their "New age" spirituality. This was the age of aquarius. Nude movies, vile language...became accepted. Christian values and "their God" was replaced by the human as god, god in nature, gods and godesses. These were all taught and welcomed in schools under the name of tolerance. Harry Potter became required reading and the Bible was banned.
 
What a tragic picture of falling from the place where God was honored and the Bible was the reason for schools. Put away the drugs and alcohol. Put away your desire for things, for the nation that was the greatest producer of all things, has become the nation impoverished, few manufacturing jobs, for we buy things cheaper from our enemies. The nations we buy oil from and all our needs, they hate us and serve Gods opposed to the God of our founding fathers.
 
There is still a remnant that have not turned from God in our country. There is a remnant that is proud of our flag and what it stands for, our constitution and our freedoms. To these, they truly agree with the motto, In GodWe Trust. We know that God, but many trust in another god. We know that Jesus has made us truly free and that we are citizens of an even greater kingdom. We keep our souls forever and we are sealed to the higher bidder, Jesus has bought us from the devil. A greater price than what is offered on ebay, his own blood shed. Now we belong to Jesus, bought and paid for by the father, through his son. His Son shall gather the souls unto the Father forever and ever, amen.

Saturday, March 11, 2006

Mark - Hands, Feet, Eyes for Jesus

Hands, Feet, Eyes for Jesus

Mark 9:43 And if thy hand offend thee, cut it off: it is better for thee to enter into life maimed, than having two hands to go into hell, into the fire that never shall be quenched:
Mark 9:44 Where their worm dieth not, and the fire is not quenched.

Offenses are serious business, our responsibility is to avoid offenses and as mature believers to forgive and not be easily offended. The hand does the work of the mind, the work of Christ, or the fulfilling of the lusts of the flesh. Cut it off? If it offends, for if it keeps you from trusting fully in Jesus Christ, the wrath of God abides on you and that leading to hell. Oh yeah? no one says that anymore. You must be one of those unloving fire and brimstone preachers? The message is from God the Father, through his Son. Hear Jesus.

Mark 9:45 And if thy foot offend thee, cut it off: it is better for thee to enter halt into life, than having two feet to be cast into hell, into the fire that never shall be quenched:
Mark 9:46 Where their worm dieth not, and the fire is not quenched.

Now he speaks of the foot offending. The foot could be shod with the gospel of peace.

Eph 6:15 And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace;

Or the feet could be quick to run, into trouble.

Prov 6:16 These six things doth the LORD hate: yea, seven are an abomination unto him:
Prov 6:17 A proud look, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood,
Prov 6:18 An heart that deviseth wicked imaginations, feet that be swift in running to mischief,
Prov 6:19 A false witness that speaketh lies, and he that soweth discord among brethren.

Mark 9:47 And if thine eye offend thee, pluck it out: it is better for thee to enter into the kingdom of God with one eye, than having two eyes to be cast into hell fire:
Mark 9:48 Where their worm dieth not, and the fire is not quenched.

Luke 11:34 The light of the body is the eye: therefore when thine eye is single, thy whole body also is full of light; but when thine eye is evil, thy body also is full of darkness. Luke 11:35 Take heed therefore that the light which is in thee be not darkness.

1 Cor 6:18 Flee fornication. Every sin that a man doeth is without the body; but he that committeth fornication sinneth against his own body.
1 Cor 6:19 What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?
1 Cor 6:20 For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.

We are tempted through the flesh and thoughts that come into our mind. A person can be loved and have great power in the world, but if these things are not in submission to God, they abide in His wrath.

We must Submit all to Jesus, for our new life is in His Spirit and through faith. All things are possible if we trust in God. We do not walk in feelings or fear. We must do the right thing. Doing what we must, through faith. Stand up you soldier of the cross, you are needed by others. Together we are the mighty army in the Lord.

Friday, March 10, 2006

Mark - Good fruit, Bad fruit

Good fruit, Bad fruit

Mark 9:41 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.

Mark 9:40 For he that is not against us is on our part.

Good works will be taken into account at the judgment. Yet, good works cannot save you.

Mark 9:42 And whosoever shall offend one of these little ones that believe in me, it is better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and he were cast into the sea.

A non believer who offends one of the Lord's little ones, it is better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and he were cast into the sea.

But, we may say, I was only joking. Or perhaps one of these little ones in the faith were led astray by our debating and strife over such things as salvation, tongues, the rapture. Do we consider the little ones in a chat room when we argue and seek our own way? How would the little one understand when someone claims that Jesus is not God, or is an angel and then again another says He is God only, Jesus only? Must we argue when our own hearts are immature and lacking? We are responsible for the little ones. Jesus will hold us accountable.

James 3:1 My brethren, be not many masters (teachers), knowing that we shall receive the greater condemnation.
James 3:2 For in many things we offend all. If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body.

Is there no hope for such a sinner? There is hope if he repents and comes to Jesus for the forgiveness of sins. True repentance is after salvation, but the heart that comes to Jesus must be convicted of sins. This conviction is the work of the Holy Spirit.

Mat 12:31 Wherefore I say unto you, All manner of sin and blasphemy shall be forgiven unto men: but the blasphemy against the Holy Ghost shall not be forgiven unto men.
Mat 12:32 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.
Mat 12:33 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.

God is not mocked, he searches the heart and by the fruit of our life we are known. If our heart has been born again in Christ, we are of His Spirit. We will not continue to offend the little ones. We will want to please the Lord.

Eaglewings Testimonies

Wednesday, March 8, 2006

Mark - True and False workers

True and False workers

Mark 9:38 And John answered him, saying, Master, we saw one casting out devils in thy name, and he followeth not us: and we forbad him, because he followeth not us.
Mark 9:39 But Jesus said, Forbid him not: for there is no man which shall do a miracle in my name, that can lightly speak evil of me.
Mark 9:40 For he that is not against us is on our part.

If the fruit is good and things are done in Jesus' name, they are for Jesus. They have good fruit.

Compare this to this verse:

Mat 7:15 Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.
Mat 7:16 Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles?
Mat 7:17 Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit.
Mat 7:18 A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit.
Mat 7:19 Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire.
Mat 7:20 Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.
Mat 7:21 Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.
Mat 7:22 Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works?
Mat 7:23 And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.

Apparently these were false people claiming to do the work of God. Fake Christians with no eternal fruit, not of Jesus, deceivers and liars making merchandise of people seeking God. They had evil fruit and perhaps a false message.

And this verse:

Luke 13:23 Then said one unto him, Lord, are there few that be saved? And he said unto them,
Luke 13:24 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 13:25 When once the master of the house is risen up, and hath shut to 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:
Luke 13:26 Then shall ye begin to say, We have eaten and drunk in thy presence, and thou hast taught in our streets.
Luke 13:27 But he shall say, I tell you, I know you not whence ye are; depart from me, all ye workers of iniquity.

Apparently these had only a casual knowledge of Jesus. They had not entered into the strait gate that is Jesus, into salvation. They acknowledged him with others, but not personally. One of many who claim to be Christian, but have no spiritual connection to him.

Eaglewings Ministries

Monday, March 6, 2006

Mark - Greatest disciple

The greatest disciple

Mark 9:33 And he came to Capernaum: and being in the house he asked them, What was it that ye disputed among yourselves by the way?

Whose house in Capernum?

Mark 1:29 And forthwith, when they were come out of the synagogue, they entered into the house of Simon and Andrew, with James and John.

Mark 9:34 But they held their peace: for by the way they had disputed among themselves, who should be the greatest.

As Jesus speaks of his death and resurrection, the disciples were tuned in to another station. Isn't that how so many are? They are seeking their own honor and position, while tuning out the most important message of all: Jesus' death and resurrection. At a recent funeral, all the talk was about how great the man was, but there was no mention of God or the way to heaven. We get our eyes on our own importance and spend our life seeking adoration and praise from man, and when death comes we expect to be honored by God? Get to honoring God now, Hear his Son, he has the way of salvation. It is about Jesus, not us.

Mark 8:38 Whosoever therefore shall be ashamed of me and of my words in this adulterous and sinful generation; of him also shall the Son of man be ashamed, when he cometh in the glory of his Father with the holy angels.

Mark 9:35 And he sat down, and called the twelve, and saith unto them, If any man desire to be first, the same shall be last of all, and servant of all.

The greatest in the kingdom of God, are not those who wish to be admired, but those who are servants of all.

Mark 9:36 And he took a child, and set him in the midst of them: and when he had taken him in his arms, he said unto them,
Mark 9:37 Whosoever shall receive one of such children in my name, receiveth me: and whosoever shall receive me, receiveth not me, but him that sent me.

Jesus is Lord of the little children and identifies with them.

Mat 18:10 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.

What we do to innocent children, is as what we do to Jesus. Think of thisas having power and how we use it. Anyone is stronger than a child, but compared to this, God is infinately more powerful than we are. As we treat others, we shall be treated. We reap what we sow.

If we receive Jesus we receive the Father too. I believe that we are being watched and God is with us in His Spirit. Be his humble servant and seek his ways. His reward is eternal life sharing all things with Christ Jesus. How could we ever deserve that? Amazing grace.

Eaglewings Topical Bible Studies

Sunday, March 5, 2006

Mark - Afraid to ask

Afraid to ask

Mark 9:30 And they departed thence, and passed through Galilee; and he would not that any man should know it.

They passed secretly through Galilee, probably because he did not want to be delayed getting to Jerusalem.

Mark 9:31 For he taught his disciples, and said unto them, The Son of man is delivered into the hands of men, and they shall kill him; and after that he is killed, he shall rise the third day.

The reason for going to Jerusalem was to do what he was sent for: to die on the cross for our sins and to rise on the third day. I suppose most people think they are going to heaven, but do they know how? Jesus is the way, believe on him.

Mark 9:32 But they understood not that saying, and were afraid to ask him.

They did not understand yet, and were afraid to ask. Do not be afraid to ask Jesus for understanding. Do not be afraid to ask about Jesus. For some reason that name is off limits. No, that name must be spoken and received. The devil wants to keep this silent, we must speak the name of Jesus.

Eaglewings Testimonies

Saturday, March 4, 2006

Mark - Cast out

Cast Out

Mark 9:20 And they brought him unto him: and when he saw him, straightway the spirit tare him; and he fell on the ground, and wallowed foaming.

The young man was brought to Jesus, because no one else could heal him.

Mark 9:21 And he asked his father, How long is it ago since this came unto him? And he said, Of a child.
Mark 9:22 And ofttimes it hath cast him into the fire, and into the waters, to destroy him: but if thou canst do any thing, have compassion on us, and help us.

A destructive spirit, in him from childhood, seeking to destroy him. We need to pray for our children, for satan desires to destroy them and many are destroyed through suicide and wrong choices.

Mark 9:23 Jesus said unto him, If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth.

All things are possible if we believe that God is able. Jesus spoke of faith as an intercessor. This goes along with Malachi's prophecy:

Mal 4:6 And he shall turn the heart of the fathers to the children, and the heart of the children to their fathers, lest I come and smite the earth with a curse.

Unbelief allows satan to continue to curse and if unbelief is widespread, God himself will seek our attention by cursing the earth; Perhaps with earthquakes, tornados, storms and floods.

Mat 24:6 And ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet.
Mat 24:7 For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places.
Mat 24:8 All these are the beginning of sorrows.

Mark 9:24 And straightway the father of the child cried out, and said with tears, Lord, I believe; help thou mine unbelief.

An excellent prayer, I believe, I have a little faith, Lord increase my faith.

Mark 9:25 When Jesus saw that the people came running together, he rebuked the foul spirit, saying unto him, Thou dumb and deaf spirit, I charge thee, come out of him, and enter no more into him.

The people came running together, were they together in faith? Or would theybe of unbelief seeking to stone him? Immediately Jesus rebuked the foul spirit, he named it and commanded it to come out and not return. How tragic if it were to return. Jesus sealed the entrance. To be permanently sealed we need the sealing of his Holy Spirit.

Mark 9:26 And the spirit cried, and rent him sore, and came out of him: and he was as one dead; insomuch that many said, He is dead.

The devil is stubborn and reluctant to give up what he once had. Sometimes it is painful to remove a bad spirit, but well worth it. Do not let a foul spirit keep you in bondage.

Mark 9:27 But Jesus took him by the hand, and lifted him up; and he arose.

He looked like he had no life, but when Jesus reached for his hand he arose. When Jesus reaches for our hand, we receive new life. Faith brought his hand and Jesus cast out the devil.

Mark 9:28 And when he was come into the house, his disciples asked him privately, Why could not we cast him out?

What's the trick Jesus? No trick, you must pay the price. We want results without doing what is required.

Mark 9:29 And he said unto them, This kind can come forth by nothing, but by prayer and fasting.

Prayer and fasting takes commitment and many do not want commitment, they take the easy road. Many do not make Jesus Lord of their life. Without Jesus we are powerless.

Superragman

Eaglewings Prayers Journal

Friday, March 3, 2006

Mark - Veiled hearts

Veiled hearts

Mark 9:14 And when he came to his disciples, he saw a great multitude about them, and the scribes questioning with them.

The scribes were responsible for preserving the word of God and were often in opposition to the moving of God through Jesus and his disciples, always questioning their authority.

Mark 11:28 And say unto him, By what authority doest thou these things? and who gave thee this authority to do these things?

Mark 9:15 And straightway all the people, when they beheld him, were greatly amazed, and running to him saluted him.

Why were they amazed when they saw Jesus? Because he still had the glow he had on the mountain when he appeared with Moses and Elijah.

Mark 9:3 And his raiment became shining, exceeding white as snow; so as no fuller on earth can white them.

Possibly his face also glowed as did Moses when he returned from the mountain after being with God.

Exo 34:29 And it came to pass, when Moses came down from mount Sinai with the two tables of testimony in Moses' hand, when he came down from the mount, that Moses wist not that the skin of his face shone while he talked with him.
Exo 34:30 And when Aaron and all the children of Israel saw Moses, behold, the skin of his face shone; and they were afraid to come nigh him.

Exo 34:35 And the children of Israel saw the face of Moses, that the skin of Moses' face shone: and Moses put the veil upon his face again, until he went in to speak with him(God).

This is referred to by Paul, concerning Israel being unable to see the glory of God and to understand spiritual things.

2 Cor 3:13 And not as Moses, which put a veil over his face, that the children of Israel could not stedfastly look to the end of that which is abolished:
2 Cor 3:14 But their minds were blinded: for until this day remaineth the same veil untaken away in the reading of the old testament; which veil is done away in Christ.
2 Cor 3:15 But even unto this day, when Moses is read, the veil is upon their heart.
2 Cor 3:16 Nevertheless when it shall turn to the Lord, the veil shall be taken away.
2 Cor 3:17 Now the Lord is thatSpirit: and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty.

The scribes had the veil upon their hearts, concerning Jesus.

Mark 9:16 And he asked the scribes, What question ye with them?
Mark 9:17 And one of the multitude answered and said, Master, I have brought unto thee my son, which hath a dumb spirit;
Mark 9:18 And wheresoever he taketh him, he teareth him: and he foameth, and gnasheth with his teeth, and pineth away: and I spake to thy disciples that they should cast him out; and they could not.

His disciples were unable to cast the spirit out.

Mark 9:19 He answereth him, and saith, O faithless generation, how long shall I be with you? how long shall I suffer you? bring him unto me.

Jesus is able, we must have faith in God through Jesus. This ailment sounds like epilepsy. According to the story, it was caused by a bad spirit. He was said also to have had a dumb spirit. Probably today's doctors would say it was something in the brain. Most today of the world do not see the spirit world. The cause was a bad spirit. Jesus is Lord of all.

Eaglewings Ministries

Thursday, March 2, 2006

Elijah has come

Elijah has come

Mark 9:11 And they asked him, saying, Why say the scribes that Elias must first come?

Malachi, the prophet spoke this:

Mal 4:5 Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the LORD:
Mal 4:6 And he shall turn the heart of the fathers to the children, and the heart of the children to their fathers, lest I come and smite the earth with a curse.

Did he come? Jesus said yes, that John the Baptist was the one with the Spirit of Elijah. He pointed us to Jesus. In Jesus the hearts of the father's and their children are changed.

Mark 9:12 And he answered and told them, Elias verily cometh first, and restoreth all things; and how it is written of the Son of man, that he must suffer many things, and be set at nought.

Mat 11:13 For all the prophets and the law prophesied until John.
Mat 11:14 And if ye will receive it, this is Elias, which was for to come.
Mat 11:15 He that hath ears to hear, let him hear.

Elias or Elijah has come, also this will come to pass, that Jesus shall suffer many things for us:

Isa 53:3 He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief: and we hid as it were our faces from him; he was despised, and we esteemed him not.
Isa 53:4 Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted.
Isa 53:5 But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed.

Mark 9:13 But I say unto you, That Elias is indeed come, and they have done unto him whatsoever they listed, as it is written of him.

Elijah has come, Herod had him jailed for pointing out his sinful relationship with his brother's wife.

Mat 14:3 For Herod had laid hold on John, and bound him, and put him in prison for Herodias' sake, his brother Philip's wife.

His niece pleased him with a dance on his birthday, so she was given a request unto half of the Kingdom.

Mark 6:24 And she went forth, and said unto her mother, What shall I ask? And she said, The head of John the Baptist.
Mark 6:25 And she came in straightway with haste unto the king, and asked, saying, I will that thou give me by and by in a charger the head of John the Baptist.

Herodias would require John's head. The head that proclaimed the way of the Lord. The mouth that introduced us to Jesus. Be assured these things shall be remembered for eternity, long after the body dies. Remember too, our words and testimony shall live beyond our natural life.

Rev 12:10 And I heard a loud voice saying in heaven, Now is come salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of his Christ: for the accuser of our brethren is cast down, which accused them before our God day and night.
Rev 12:11 And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death.

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