Luke-A prophet in the flesh

   Luke 7:18  And the disciples of John showed him of all these things.  

They showed John who was in prison what Jesus was doing: the Centurions servant was healed and the dead man was raised to life. This should have encouraged this great prophet who had announced the coming of Jesus as the Lamb of God.  

John 1:29  The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.
John 1:30  This is he of whom I said, After me cometh a man which is preferred before me: for he was before me.
John 1:31  And I knew him not: but that he should be made manifest to Israel, therefore am I come baptizing with water.   This is the one that John had said:  

John 3:30  He must increase, but I must decrease.
John 3:31  He that cometh from above is above all: he that is of the earth is earthly, and speaketh of the earth: he that cometh from heaven is above all.
John 3:32  And what he hath seen and heard, that he testifieth; and no man receiveth his testimony.
John 3:33  He that hath received his testimony hath set to his seal that God is true.
John 3:34  For he whom God hath sent speaketh the words of God: for God giveth not the Spirit by measure unto him.

Luke 7:19  And John calling unto him two of his disciples sent them to Jesus, saying, Art thou he that should come? or look we for another?  

Wow! How could this great prophet of God say this? A simple answer is that he himself was a man, not perfect who had doubts. One who had lived for years under the stars, living in the bright sun near the River Jordan, living off of the land. Being content in his calling. Now discouragement has set in. All was dark and he was in a filthy prison cell treated as an animal, because he spoke the truth. We can learn from this, that we too are flesh, subject to human emotions, but we must not forget the times when God spoke through us, first for salvation and then to follow him. John had spoken God's word, not his own. When we speak God's word, do we believe? Do we do what is says and above all have faith? John had lost the Spirit. Before Pentecost and the permanent giving of God's Spirit, the Spirit would come and go. John was in the flesh and in doubts when he asked this question.

Luke 7:20  When the men were come unto him, they said, John Baptist hath sent us unto thee, saying, Art thou he that should come? or look we for another?
Luke 7:21  And in that same hour he cured many of their infirmities and plagues, and of evil spirits; and unto many that were blind he gave sight.  

Jesus was busy; healing, casting out demons, giving the blind sight. It is amazing that people still do not see when the Spirit of God is so evident. Jesus often was amazed at the lack of faith in his own disciples.

Luke 7:22  Then Jesus answering said unto them, Go your way, and tell John what things ye have seen and heard; how that the blind see, the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, to the poor the gospel is preached.
Luke 7:23  And blessed is he, whosoever shall not be offended in me.  

Jesus came to bless, but still there was and is unbelief. People get in their struggles with personal things, and loose sight of Jesus. Many are offended when we speak his name and his word. Atheists go to court to remove a cross from public land, they are offended in him. He cannot bless those who are offended with him with eternal life. John was confused, wanting to hear again the sweet words of Jesus, yes John, the very works that I do testify of me. Believe in me my friend. Keep believing and I will see you in Paradise.

Gary

Eaglewings Daily Bible

A Study about fear (Hiram)

A STUDY ABOUT FEAR

Jesus, when speaking to His disciples, He warned them against men who would persecute them because of their faith in Him as the messiah.

From Matthew 10: 17 we learn that we should be on guard against men who have not faith in Jesus. These men will bring us before governors and judges to give an account for our faith. This action is now being started in our country, as is evident from the persecution of Judge Moore, the state of Alabama federal Judge.

In Matthew 10: 26 we read: "So do not be afraid of them. There is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not be made known."

The word "afraid," used here, comes from the Greek "fob-eh'-o" and means frightened, or alarmed. The truth will eventually be made manifest to the world. What the Lord tells you from His word declare to the public. Do not be alarmed by those who can kill your body, but can't kill your soul. Instead you should be alarmed, frightened, by the One who can destroy both body and soul in hell.

Another word for "fear" is found in Matthew 14: 25. "During the fourth watch of the night Jesus went out to them, walking on the lake. When the disciples saw Him walking on the lake, they were terrified. It's a ghost, they said, and cried out in fear."

The word translated "fear" in this passage is from the Greek "fob'-os" and is the terror brought on by superstition. A popular Jewish superstition held that the appearance of spirits during the night brought disaster. That is why they cried out in fear. They were "afraid" that disaster was about to destroy them.

We should abolish all superstitious ideas from our thoughts. Faith can never be effective when superstitions are dwelling in our minds. Superstition is related to fortunetelling, or soothe saying. which are the works of the devil. Superstition is a form of fear.

The word "fear" found in Hebrews 11: 7 comes from the Greek word "yoo-lab-eh'-om-ahee" meaning to be apprehensive or to reverence. "By faith Noah, when warned about things not yet seen, in holy fear built an ark to save his family. By his faith he condemned the world and became heir to the righteousness that comes by faith."  Noah by his faith condemned the world and became heir to the righteousness that
is the result of faith. His trust in God made him reverently apprehensive. He expected God to keep His promise and save him and his family from the flood that would destroy the world. He spent about 120 years building that ark, all because of his reverent fear of God. His "fear" brought condemnation to the world.

This "reverent fear" should be the expectation that we should have concerning the return of Jesus Christ, to claim His church. We should be filled with reverent apprehension as we read or think of the return of Jesus to claim His own. A holy expectation should fill our minds when we are reminded of this great event.

The final word translated "fear" is found in 1 Corinthians  16: 10. It is speaking of Timothy going to the church there. Paul desired that he would be able to carry on the work of the Lord without "fear." This word in the Greek is "of-ob'-oce," and means "without fear, or fearlessly." Timothy should have nothing to be afraid of while he does the work of the Lord among them.

First John 4: 18 reveals: "There is no fear (alarm, fright, or terror) in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment." The one who fears (is filled with alarm, fright, or terror, about judgment for sins) is not made perfect in love.

Hiram

Luke-Dead man speaks

Luke 7:11  And it came to pass the day after, that he went into a city called Nain; and many of his disciples went with him, and much people.  

The next day after the Centurion's servant was healed.

Luke 7:12  Now when he came nigh to the gate of the city, behold, there was a dead man carried out, the only son of his mother, and she was a widow: and much people of the city was with her.  

 A dead man, being carried in a funeral procession. The only son of a widow. The son would have helped the poor widow who had no resources of her own.

Luke 7:13  And when the Lord saw her, he had compassion on her, and said unto her, Weep not.  

He had compassion AND power from God. Weep not.  

1 Pet 5:7  Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.   Jesus was there, do not weep for he has power over death. He is the Lord of life.  

 Isa 61:3  To appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the LORD, that he might be glorified.

Luke 7:14  And he came and touched the bier: and they that bare him stood still. And he said, Young man, I say unto thee, Arise.
Luke 7:15  And he that was dead sat up, and began to speak. And he delivered him to his mother.  

He spoke to the young man as he lie dead in the open coffin. The young man set up and began to speak "Hi mom," and he went to his mother. Amazing, many seek to be magicians empowered to do tricks but only God can give life. All other is of satan and will lead to destruction. Jesus is the power of God for life.

Luke 7:16  And there came afear on all: and they glorified God, saying, That a great prophet is risen up among us; and, That God hath visited his people.  

Fear of God is a good thing. God is the power of life and death; eternal life or hell. Fear him, in great respect submit to him.

Luke 7:17  Andthis rumour of him went forth throughout all Judaea, and throughout all the region round about.  

Eccl 12:13  Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man.
Eccl 12:14  For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil.
Gary

Luke-Great faith

Luke 7:1  Now when he had ended all his sayings in the audience of the people, he entered into Capernaum.  

This was a sea coast town where he had called James and John to follow him.

Luke 7:2  And a certain centurion's servant, who was dear unto him, was sick, and ready to die.
Luke 7:3  And when he heard of Jesus, he sent unto him the elders of the Jews, beseeching him that he would come and heal his servant.
Luke 7:4  And when they came to Jesus, they besought him instantly, saying, That he was worthy for whom he should do this:
Luke 7:5  For he loveth our nation, and he hath built us a synagogue.  

 The Centurion was a Roman soldier of high rank and of an excellent spirit. He loved his servant and wanted Jesus to heal him. He had faith in Jesus, which is the way of personal salvation. He was known for his good works, for he had helped build a synagogue, a meeting place for the Jews to worship. He was of good reputation within the community. It was said that he loved Israel which brought him God's blessings.

Luke 7:6  Then Jesus went with them. And when he was now not far from the house, the centurion sent friends to him, saying unto him, Lord, trouble not thyself: for I am not worthy that thou shouldest enter under my roof:
Luke 7:7  Wherefore neither thought I myself worthy to come unto thee: but say in a word, and my servant shall be healed.  

 Two more character traits of this great man, he was humble and he had faith that Jesus would heal the servant. The Pharisees were not as this man, they were the opposite, proud, judgmental, seeking to use their power to destroy Jesus. This man had faith in Jesus and he was a Gentile, not a Jew.

Luke 7:8  For I also am a man set under authority, having under me soldiers, and I say unto one, Go, and he goeth; and to another, Come, and he cometh; and to my servant, Do this, and he doeth it.
Luke 7:9  When Jesus heard these things, he marvelled at him, and turned him about, and said unto the people that followed him, I say unto you, I have not found so great faith, no, not in Israel.  

The Centurion knew authority, so many people do not accept authority. He knew that Jesus was greater and that at his word his servant would be healed. This is authority from God. Jesus was impressed. This man had greater faith than any in Israel.

Luke 7:10  And they that were sent, returning to the house, found the servant whole that had been sick.  

The servant was healed from afar, because the Centurian had faith in Jesus that he would heal him. That is faith. What is a faithful person? He loves others and cares for them. He does good works, loves God and Israel. He has a good report in his community. He has faith in Jesus and knows authority. He asks Jesus for something and knows that his request will be granted. Jesus is impressed with this kind of faith.    

Luke-Spiritual Building

Luke 6:46  And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?  

A good point. Why claim Jesus as Lord and master and follow your own way? These are more than words in a book. Jesus wants us to make him Lord of all of our life. Our thoughts and actions must submit to his will.  

Mat 11:29  Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.
Mat 11:30  For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.   The world and the devil are not easy on us, but Jesus cares, he lifts us up and helps with our load.

Luke 6:47  Whosoever cometh to me, and heareth my sayings, and doeth them, I will show you to whom he is like:
Luke 6:48  He is like a man which built an house, and digged deep, and laid the foundation on a rock: and when the flood arose, the stream beat vehemently upon that house, and could not shake it: for it was founded upon a rock.
Luke 6:49  But he that heareth, and doeth not, is like a man that without a foundation built an house upon the earth; against which the stream did beat vehemently, and immediately it fell; and the ruin of that house was great.  

 Is your foundation on Jesus the rock, the chief cornerstone f God's Spiritual building? He is our foundation, built upon by the apostles and prophets. Be careful we must be with our lives, for we are living stones, part of this building the world sees as the church.  

1 Pet 2:5  Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ.   We are saints and priests, our lives as sacrifices through praise, our words and our actions. This is our reasonable duty. (Rom 12:1-2)
  Gary

Prayer answered

Dear Super, I just want to say again thank you for your prayers.  .....The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much(Jam. 5:16b)  It is always good to know people care and pray.  Because of His grace and His mercy I am saved; because He loves me I am blessed.  I got the job and I give God the praise and glory. O taste and see that Lord is good: blessed is the man that trusteth un him(Psalm 34:8)   Mrs. Constance Parker has been a dear friend to me, like a mother.  She has requested prayer in that her husband Joe is suffering with hep. C.  Please pray that the Lord strengthens Mrs. Parker and if it is god's will that he heals Joe.  Mrs. Parker has been there for me and my family through so very rough times.  I thank god for her. please pray that things are well for her and her family as they have lost several family members.   grateful always monique   If I do not answer mail it is because AOL has slowed my mail. It takes 2 minutes or more for a piece of mail to go through...Gary  

Fruit

The Gospel of Luke   Fruit   Luke 6:43  For a good tree bringeth not forth corrupt fruit; neither doth a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit.   Every tree brings forth fruit after its kind. An orange tree makes oranges, a mock orange has orange looking blossoms, but no fruit. A persimmon picked too soon make you pucker, with a bad taste. Each after it's kind. 
Luke 6:44  For every tree is known by his own fruit. For of thorns men do not gather figs, nor of a bramble bush gather they grapes.   We do not look for fruit from the wrong kind of trees. Nor should we expect truth from a liar.
Luke 6:45  A good man out of the good treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is good; and an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is evil: for of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaketh.   The heart? Is it the heart of God? A heart sanctified and holy? The heart of Jesus, the dwelling place of his Spirit? Or is the heart evil, full of the fruit of the old man and the devil?   Just as Jesus came from His father and was of a like mind. So we are of His Spirit, if we have the mind of Christ. You shall know a man by his fruit. The fruit of his lips; words to build or to destroy. The fruit of his life, good works or bad. Is God master of his life or self? You know them by their fruit.   Luke 16:10  He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much: and he that is unjust in the least is unjust also in much.
Luke 16:11  If therefore ye have not been faithful in the unrighteous mammon, who will commit to your trust the true riches?
Luke 16:12  And if ye have not been faithful in that which is another man's, who shall give you that which is your own?
Luke 16:13  No servant can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.
Luke 16:14  And the Pharisees also, who were covetous, heard all these things: and they derided him.
Luke 16:15  And he said unto them, Ye are they which justify yourselves before men; but God knoweth your hearts: for that which is highly esteemed among men is abomination in the sight of God.
GARY