James 5:17-20
Whoever turns a sinner from the error of his way will save him from death and cover over a multitude of sins.
Prayer should like Elijah, who was a man just like us.
James's final words,perhaps still in the context of prayer, concern the backslider.
When one of the fellowship turns away from God, another must go and bring them back. That return means a soul saved and sins forgiven.
Why?
Remember the power of prayer is great than we thought, Elijah is a man like us, but he can make great things so we can do it by prayer through God.
For the faith need implement with love action so when one of the fellowship turns away from God, we must go and bring him back, to save a soul from death.
How?
No matter what happened, come to the Lord and pray, God will lead me to the new way with mercy and compassion. Don't care only me but also care other brothers.
Saturday, December 31, 2016
Friday, December 30, 2016
The prayer of a righteous man
James 5:13-16
In trouble: He should pray. In happy: Let him sing songs of praise.
Sick: Call the elders of the church to pray over him and anoint him with oil in the name of the Lord.
The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective.
Are you in trouble Pray, then. Are you happy? Praise God. Are you ill? God heals in response to trusting prayer.
Why?
Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. For God like those who confess his sins and turn to the Lord, repent and may turn to heal. The consequence of sin is dead, before the dead is ill.
Be faithful and prayer to the Lord, for God is full of mercy and compassion to us.
How?
I am got the cold now so I need to confess my sins and pray to the Lord.
In trouble: He should pray. In happy: Let him sing songs of praise.
Sick: Call the elders of the church to pray over him and anoint him with oil in the name of the Lord.
The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective.
Are you in trouble Pray, then. Are you happy? Praise God. Are you ill? God heals in response to trusting prayer.
Why?
Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. For God like those who confess his sins and turn to the Lord, repent and may turn to heal. The consequence of sin is dead, before the dead is ill.
Be faithful and prayer to the Lord, for God is full of mercy and compassion to us.
How?
I am got the cold now so I need to confess my sins and pray to the Lord.
Thursday, December 29, 2016
Be patient and stand firm in waiting time
James 5:7-12
Be patient and stand firm, because the Lord's coming is near. Like farmer waits for the land to yield its valuable crop.
The Lord is full of compassion and mercy. Take the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord.
My brothers, do not swear. Let your "Yes" be yes and your "No", no, or you will be condemned.
Jame continues the thought of the day of God's coming. Christians need patience in the waiting time, the patience of the farmer, the patient endurance of suffering that we see in the prophets and Job. All was well for Job in the end, and so it will be for us.
Why?
Why have to be patience in waiting time and suffering, for the Lord is full of compassion and mercy.
All of the suffering and pain will be ended when Jesus comes.
With hope we may learn the patient and stand firm. Do not grumble or complain for God is my hope.
If we haven't hope then everything become meaningless and full of trouble. Turn to the Lord and comes with joy and faith.
How?
Be humble and be patient and stand firm, for the Lord is full of compassion and mercy.
Be patient and stand firm, because the Lord's coming is near. Like farmer waits for the land to yield its valuable crop.
The Lord is full of compassion and mercy. Take the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord.
My brothers, do not swear. Let your "Yes" be yes and your "No", no, or you will be condemned.
Jame continues the thought of the day of God's coming. Christians need patience in the waiting time, the patience of the farmer, the patient endurance of suffering that we see in the prophets and Job. All was well for Job in the end, and so it will be for us.
Why?
Why have to be patience in waiting time and suffering, for the Lord is full of compassion and mercy.
All of the suffering and pain will be ended when Jesus comes.
With hope we may learn the patient and stand firm. Do not grumble or complain for God is my hope.
If we haven't hope then everything become meaningless and full of trouble. Turn to the Lord and comes with joy and faith.
How?
Be humble and be patient and stand firm, for the Lord is full of compassion and mercy.
Wednesday, December 28, 2016
Help my neighbor as I can
James 5:1-6
Warming to rich oppressors.
Sins of the rich:
The wages you failed to pay the workmen who mowed your fields are crying out against you.
You have condemned and murdered innocent men, who were not opposing you.
There is a special danger in wealth. It wraps people up in false security. They are so well-insulated that they ease to feel for those who are cold and hungry.
This life is so pleasant that they forget the day of reckoning. But God sees and hears all.
In the style of an Old Testament prophet. James denounces(譴責) those who pile up riches yet pay out no wages. There are echoes of Proverbs, too, in these phrases.
Compare Jesus' parable of the rich fool (Luke 12:16-21)
Why?
Rich is not sin, but when rich is caused by failed to pay the workmen who worked for you and condemned, murdered innocent men, this rich is sin who will be charged by the Lord. They lived on earth in luxury and self-indulgence. You have fattened yourselves in the day of slaughter.
How?
I am not rich but I have some may help poor, my neighbor.
Warming to rich oppressors.
Sins of the rich:
The wages you failed to pay the workmen who mowed your fields are crying out against you.
You have condemned and murdered innocent men, who were not opposing you.
There is a special danger in wealth. It wraps people up in false security. They are so well-insulated that they ease to feel for those who are cold and hungry.
This life is so pleasant that they forget the day of reckoning. But God sees and hears all.
In the style of an Old Testament prophet. James denounces(譴責) those who pile up riches yet pay out no wages. There are echoes of Proverbs, too, in these phrases.
Compare Jesus' parable of the rich fool (Luke 12:16-21)
Why?
Rich is not sin, but when rich is caused by failed to pay the workmen who worked for you and condemned, murdered innocent men, this rich is sin who will be charged by the Lord. They lived on earth in luxury and self-indulgence. You have fattened yourselves in the day of slaughter.
How?
I am not rich but I have some may help poor, my neighbor.
Tuesday, December 27, 2016
Judgment is God's business
James 4:11-17
Who are you to judge your neighbor?
We are nothing but a wisp of fog. We should say "If it is the Lord's will, we will live and do this or that."
Anyone, who knows the good he ought to do and doesn't do it, sins.
Don't criticize and judge others: judgment is God's business.
Don't assume you have total control of your life: that is in God's hands too.
Why?
God is the Lord who set up the laws and he judge all of us by the Law. Only God has the authority to judge us.
Our life are in hand of the Lord, don't boast I want to do something, for our life like mist, disappear soon. With humble to face everyday.
How?
Thank God everyday to give me life to honor his Holy Name. I am nothing but under the mercy of God so I can stand firm here.
Who are you to judge your neighbor?
We are nothing but a wisp of fog. We should say "If it is the Lord's will, we will live and do this or that."
Anyone, who knows the good he ought to do and doesn't do it, sins.
Don't criticize and judge others: judgment is God's business.
Don't assume you have total control of your life: that is in God's hands too.
Why?
God is the Lord who set up the laws and he judge all of us by the Law. Only God has the authority to judge us.
Our life are in hand of the Lord, don't boast I want to do something, for our life like mist, disappear soon. With humble to face everyday.
How?
Thank God everyday to give me life to honor his Holy Name. I am nothing but under the mercy of God so I can stand firm here.
Monday, December 26, 2016
Whose friend are you?
James 4:1-10
What comes fights and quarrels among you? Don't they come from your desires that battle within you?
You don not have, because you do not ask God. When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives.
God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.
Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.
Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.
James turns peace to conflict. The root cause of quarrels and fighting is envy: setting our hearts on something we want and determining to get it, no matter what.
We align ourselves with the world when we behave like that, James says.
And the world's friend is God' enemy. Don't be proud - be humble. Resist evil and submit to God who lifts up the humble.
Why?
Double-minded: One who wants the world and wants to be a follower of Christ.
God wants us turn to Him wholly, not part of us. God is envy to the sins.
James called those who friendship with the world adulterous. For they are oppose to the God. With the name of Christ but inner heart is dirty and turn to the world.
How?
Right now turn to the Lord, purity my heart, be humble before the Lord. God is Holy Lord!
What comes fights and quarrels among you? Don't they come from your desires that battle within you?
You don not have, because you do not ask God. When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives.
God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.
Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.
Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.
James turns peace to conflict. The root cause of quarrels and fighting is envy: setting our hearts on something we want and determining to get it, no matter what.
We align ourselves with the world when we behave like that, James says.
And the world's friend is God' enemy. Don't be proud - be humble. Resist evil and submit to God who lifts up the humble.
Why?
Double-minded: One who wants the world and wants to be a follower of Christ.
God wants us turn to Him wholly, not part of us. God is envy to the sins.
James called those who friendship with the world adulterous. For they are oppose to the God. With the name of Christ but inner heart is dirty and turn to the world.
How?
Right now turn to the Lord, purity my heart, be humble before the Lord. God is Holy Lord!
Saturday, December 24, 2016
Jesus was born for us, Luke 2:1-14
Luke 2:1-14
People cares Billy/Grant, Not his message.
Point is the message, Not messenger, Angel's message.
Baby let people easy come closer without pressure.
Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests.
Why?
Why Jesus was born in the manger?
The sheep shepherds are the first men knew Jesus was born, and it is good news to them.
This is a humble Majesty king. He brought peace to the earth. But only those who favors may get it. These gift is to everyone,if you don't receive it you won't get it.
How?
Christmas is good news to everyone, peace among us. Remember God's grace and his mercy to us.
People cares Billy/Grant, Not his message.
Point is the message, Not messenger, Angel's message.
Baby let people easy come closer without pressure.
Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests.
Why?
Why Jesus was born in the manger?
The sheep shepherds are the first men knew Jesus was born, and it is good news to them.
This is a humble Majesty king. He brought peace to the earth. But only those who favors may get it. These gift is to everyone,if you don't receive it you won't get it.
How?
Christmas is good news to everyone, peace among us. Remember God's grace and his mercy to us.
Friday, December 23, 2016
Wisdom that comes from heaven
James 3:13-18
Let them(wise and understanding among you) show it by their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom.
But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere.
Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness.
'Pure wisdom' comes from God and shows itself in gentleness, peace, mercy. It is a very different thing from being worldly-wise. The worldly-wise are full of selfish ambition, eager to get on, asserting their own rights.
James offers a sort of counter-order wisdom, in contrast to the conventional wisdom of the wellborn and educated in the Greco-Roman world.
Why?
Envy and selfish are against the truth. Real wisdom comes from heaven with pure, peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere.
Wisdom comes from earth are men's way, but not the way of the Lord.
How?
Let me and my church shows the good deed in peace, love, mercy and impartial and sincere.
Let them(wise and understanding among you) show it by their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom.
But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere.
Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness.
'Pure wisdom' comes from God and shows itself in gentleness, peace, mercy. It is a very different thing from being worldly-wise. The worldly-wise are full of selfish ambition, eager to get on, asserting their own rights.
James offers a sort of counter-order wisdom, in contrast to the conventional wisdom of the wellborn and educated in the Greco-Roman world.
Why?
Envy and selfish are against the truth. Real wisdom comes from heaven with pure, peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere.
Wisdom comes from earth are men's way, but not the way of the Lord.
How?
Let me and my church shows the good deed in peace, love, mercy and impartial and sincere.
Thursday, December 22, 2016
Taming the tongue
James 3:1-12
To brothers, no one can tame the tongue.
Like bits in the mouths of horses turn the whole animal and a small rudder steered large ship direction.
The tongue is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole person, sets the whole course of his life on fire, and is itself set to fire by hell.
With the tongue we praise out Lord and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in God's likeness.
Those who want to be teachers in the church must first learn to control their tongues. To master this most uncontrollable and contradictory member of the body is to have perfect self-control.
One spark can light a forest fire. A single word can be just as destructive - a deadly venom.
Why?
The same tongue can bless and it can curse, do good an do untold harm. This inconsistency, James says, is against all the laws of nature.
Through the tongue 'all the evil characteristics of a fallen world... find expression'. It no only pollutes the whole personality, its evil influence continues through the whole course of life.
How?
Careful to speak, think it more deeply before talk. Do not curse others by my tongue!
To brothers, no one can tame the tongue.
Like bits in the mouths of horses turn the whole animal and a small rudder steered large ship direction.
The tongue is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole person, sets the whole course of his life on fire, and is itself set to fire by hell.
With the tongue we praise out Lord and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in God's likeness.
Those who want to be teachers in the church must first learn to control their tongues. To master this most uncontrollable and contradictory member of the body is to have perfect self-control.
One spark can light a forest fire. A single word can be just as destructive - a deadly venom.
Why?
The same tongue can bless and it can curse, do good an do untold harm. This inconsistency, James says, is against all the laws of nature.
Through the tongue 'all the evil characteristics of a fallen world... find expression'. It no only pollutes the whole personality, its evil influence continues through the whole course of life.
How?
Careful to speak, think it more deeply before talk. Do not curse others by my tongue!
Wednesday, December 21, 2016
Faith without deeds is dead
James 2:14-26
Faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.
Abraham believed God, and t was credited to him as righteousness. A person is justified by what he does and not by faith alone.
As the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without deeds is dead.
Faith that stops at words is not faith at all. Even demons believe in God, and fear him, but that won't have them from God's judgment.
Real faith works,God accepted Abraham and Rahab because their faith resulted in action: it was genuine(真正).
If what we believe does not affect the way we live, what we do, it is dead.
James teaching here has been (wrongly) used by some to defend a doctrine of salvation by works.
Why?
Faith without action is a mind in heart, it need courage to be an action, so without deeds is empty faith.
Don't let faith become a custom in our life, let face the challenge to do the work that God like us to do.
How?
Faith do not stop at word but in action.
Faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.
Abraham believed God, and t was credited to him as righteousness. A person is justified by what he does and not by faith alone.
As the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without deeds is dead.
Faith that stops at words is not faith at all. Even demons believe in God, and fear him, but that won't have them from God's judgment.
Real faith works,God accepted Abraham and Rahab because their faith resulted in action: it was genuine(真正).
If what we believe does not affect the way we live, what we do, it is dead.
James teaching here has been (wrongly) used by some to defend a doctrine of salvation by works.
Why?
Faith without action is a mind in heart, it need courage to be an action, so without deeds is empty faith.
Don't let faith become a custom in our life, let face the challenge to do the work that God like us to do.
How?
Faith do not stop at word but in action.
Tuesday, December 20, 2016
Mercy triumphs over judgment
James 2:8-13
Love your neighbor as yourself. If you really keep the royal law found in Scripture, you are doing right.
For whoever keeps the whole law and yet stumbles at just one point is guilty of breaking all of it.
Because judgment without mercy will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful. Mercy triumphs over judgment!
Why?
It is a natural human tendency to defer to social superiors and despise those below us on the social scale. There is nothing Christian about this. The right thing is to treat everyone with equal respect - to love out neighbor as ourselves, as God's commandment teaches us.
Law that give of freedom: Christ's law is a law of mercy, freeing people from the penalty of sin - something the law of Moses could not do. Paul also speaks of the law of Christ in 1 Corinthians 9 and Galatians.
How?
Follow every word and commandment, the royal law is love your neighbor as yourself. Remember mercy triumphs over judgment. Get rid of favoritism and judgment. Judgment belong to the God.
Love your neighbor as yourself. If you really keep the royal law found in Scripture, you are doing right.
For whoever keeps the whole law and yet stumbles at just one point is guilty of breaking all of it.
Because judgment without mercy will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful. Mercy triumphs over judgment!
Why?
It is a natural human tendency to defer to social superiors and despise those below us on the social scale. There is nothing Christian about this. The right thing is to treat everyone with equal respect - to love out neighbor as ourselves, as God's commandment teaches us.
Law that give of freedom: Christ's law is a law of mercy, freeing people from the penalty of sin - something the law of Moses could not do. Paul also speaks of the law of Christ in 1 Corinthians 9 and Galatians.
How?
Follow every word and commandment, the royal law is love your neighbor as yourself. Remember mercy triumphs over judgment. Get rid of favoritism and judgment. Judgment belong to the God.
Monday, December 19, 2016
Not show favoritism to others
James 2:1-7
Our glorious Lord Jesus Christ must not show favoritism.
Has not God chosen those who are poor in the eyes of the world to be rich in faith and to inherit the kingdom he promised those who love him?
But you have dishonored the poor. Is it not the rich who are exploiting you? Are they not the ones who are dragging you into court?
Are they not the ones who are blaspheming the noble name of him to whom you belong?
Why?
God shows not favoritism to us, so we should treat everyone equal with polite and gentle. For we are belong to the Lord in his noble name.
Poor in the eyes of the world to be rich in faith, for they has more opportunity to experience the mercy of the Lord with their faith, so they have stronger faith in God.
How?
I should treat some one looks dirty or poor men more polite for God does not show favoritism to me.
Our glorious Lord Jesus Christ must not show favoritism.
Has not God chosen those who are poor in the eyes of the world to be rich in faith and to inherit the kingdom he promised those who love him?
But you have dishonored the poor. Is it not the rich who are exploiting you? Are they not the ones who are dragging you into court?
Are they not the ones who are blaspheming the noble name of him to whom you belong?
Why?
God shows not favoritism to us, so we should treat everyone equal with polite and gentle. For we are belong to the Lord in his noble name.
Poor in the eyes of the world to be rich in faith, for they has more opportunity to experience the mercy of the Lord with their faith, so they have stronger faith in God.
How?
I should treat some one looks dirty or poor men more polite for God does not show favoritism to me.
Saturday, December 17, 2016
Keep myself from being polluted by the world
James 1:19-27
For man's anger does not bring about the righteous life that God desires.
Do not merely listen to the word and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.
Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.
They have control of their tongues and their tempers. They set themselves to discover God's standards and to live them out. They put faith into practice - and it shows.
Why?
Do what it says is more realistic than merely listen. If do not put it in practice, it is deceive yourselves.
Religious is defined as look after orphans and widows in their distress and keep from being polluted by the world. More difficult is keep away being polluted by the world.
How?
Put faith in practice in my life and keep myself from being polluted by the world.
For man's anger does not bring about the righteous life that God desires.
Do not merely listen to the word and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.
Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.
They have control of their tongues and their tempers. They set themselves to discover God's standards and to live them out. They put faith into practice - and it shows.
Why?
Do what it says is more realistic than merely listen. If do not put it in practice, it is deceive yourselves.
Religious is defined as look after orphans and widows in their distress and keep from being polluted by the world. More difficult is keep away being polluted by the world.
How?
Put faith in practice in my life and keep myself from being polluted by the world.
Friday, December 16, 2016
Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial
James 1:9-18
Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when ha has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.
When tempted, no one should say, "God is tempting me." For God cannot be tempted by evil, ot does he tempt anyone' but each one is tempted when, by his own evil desire.
Every good and perfect gift is from above, He chose to give us birth through the word of truth, that we might be a kind of first fruits of all he created.
James' comments in this chapter provide us with a fair idea of what Christians should be like. They have a positive attitude to the difficulties of life, knowing their value.
They do not blame God when things go wrong.
Why?
When tempted is caused by our own evil desire, that let us know what evil had in me, get rid of this one, could make me more pure and be holy before the Lord.
God is good and perfect, who gives these to us.
When tempted do not complain, no excuse. For God is good, God loves us. God is with us.
How?
Under trial knowing the Lord who is good and perfect, God is always with me.
Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when ha has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.
When tempted, no one should say, "God is tempting me." For God cannot be tempted by evil, ot does he tempt anyone' but each one is tempted when, by his own evil desire.
Every good and perfect gift is from above, He chose to give us birth through the word of truth, that we might be a kind of first fruits of all he created.
James' comments in this chapter provide us with a fair idea of what Christians should be like. They have a positive attitude to the difficulties of life, knowing their value.
They do not blame God when things go wrong.
Why?
When tempted is caused by our own evil desire, that let us know what evil had in me, get rid of this one, could make me more pure and be holy before the Lord.
God is good and perfect, who gives these to us.
When tempted do not complain, no excuse. For God is good, God loves us. God is with us.
How?
Under trial knowing the Lord who is good and perfect, God is always with me.
Thursday, December 15, 2016
The testing of your faith develops perseverance
James 1:1-8
The testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.
Ig any of you lack wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.
Double-minded man unstable in all he does.
The letter has a Jewish-Christian flavor and many of its characteristics sit well with this James as author.
It has a marked sense of community.
It echoes the concept of wisdom found in later Jewish wisdom literature.
There are several parallels and allusions to Jesus' teaching, particularly in the Sermon on the Mount.
some of the words and phrases in this letter resemble those in James' speech at the Jerusalem Concil recorded in Ats 15.
The author's air of authority may be a further indicator.
Jesus also told his followers to as God, who gives good things.
Why?
Faith need to be tested so that out faith may confirmed and mature and complete. Perseverance is the result of testing.
We are facing many testing everyday so we need faith from Christ to purify ourselves more like Him.
How?
Pray to the Lord, give me the faith before acceptable testing, give me the perseverance when unacceptable testing comes.
The testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.
Ig any of you lack wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.
Double-minded man unstable in all he does.
The letter has a Jewish-Christian flavor and many of its characteristics sit well with this James as author.
It has a marked sense of community.
It echoes the concept of wisdom found in later Jewish wisdom literature.
There are several parallels and allusions to Jesus' teaching, particularly in the Sermon on the Mount.
some of the words and phrases in this letter resemble those in James' speech at the Jerusalem Concil recorded in Ats 15.
The author's air of authority may be a further indicator.
Jesus also told his followers to as God, who gives good things.
Why?
Faith need to be tested so that out faith may confirmed and mature and complete. Perseverance is the result of testing.
We are facing many testing everyday so we need faith from Christ to purify ourselves more like Him.
How?
Pray to the Lord, give me the faith before acceptable testing, give me the perseverance when unacceptable testing comes.
Wednesday, December 14, 2016
Be a faithful minister and fellow servant in the Lord
Colossians 4:7-18
Tychicus is a dear brother, faithful minister and fellow servant in the Lord. He may encourage your hearts.
Aristarchus, Mark, the cousin of Barnabas and Justus are the only Jews among my fellow workers for the kingdom of God, and they have proved a comfort to me. Epaphras, who is always wrestling in prayer for you, that you may stand firm in all the will of God, mature and fully assured.
Tell Archippus: "See to it that you compete the work you have received in the Lord."
After this letter has been read to you, see that it is also read in the church of the Laodiceans and that you in turn read the letter from Laodicea.
The reference to Tychicus and Onesimus links this letter with Ephesians and Philemon.
All three letters would seem to have been sent at the same time by the same messenger. It is good to find Mark reinstated after the trouble he once caused between Paul and Barnabas.
Aristarchus, who though a Jew came from Greece, was another longstanding companion of Paul's and had been involved in the riot at Ephesus.
Luke stayed with Paul to the end, but Demas defected. Epaphras the Colossian, has been mentioned already. Nympha in Loadicea, is only one of those who opened their homes to the local Christian group long before there were church buildings.
Aquila and Priscilla at Ephesus and later at Rome, Philemon at Colossae and Gaius at Corinth all did the same. The whole church is deeply in their debt.
Why?
All the church need to united in the faith and encourage each other. Every christian is attending their church in different place but all are the brother and sister in the Lord, so we should work together in one heart, one mind and one God.
Paul was in prison but he still work for the Lord by letter to encourage God's servants and followers, be faithful and compete the work you have received in the Lord.
How?
Pray to the Lord let me be faithful minister and fellow servant in the Lord.
Tychicus is a dear brother, faithful minister and fellow servant in the Lord. He may encourage your hearts.
Aristarchus, Mark, the cousin of Barnabas and Justus are the only Jews among my fellow workers for the kingdom of God, and they have proved a comfort to me. Epaphras, who is always wrestling in prayer for you, that you may stand firm in all the will of God, mature and fully assured.
Tell Archippus: "See to it that you compete the work you have received in the Lord."
After this letter has been read to you, see that it is also read in the church of the Laodiceans and that you in turn read the letter from Laodicea.
The reference to Tychicus and Onesimus links this letter with Ephesians and Philemon.
All three letters would seem to have been sent at the same time by the same messenger. It is good to find Mark reinstated after the trouble he once caused between Paul and Barnabas.
Aristarchus, who though a Jew came from Greece, was another longstanding companion of Paul's and had been involved in the riot at Ephesus.
Luke stayed with Paul to the end, but Demas defected. Epaphras the Colossian, has been mentioned already. Nympha in Loadicea, is only one of those who opened their homes to the local Christian group long before there were church buildings.
Aquila and Priscilla at Ephesus and later at Rome, Philemon at Colossae and Gaius at Corinth all did the same. The whole church is deeply in their debt.
Why?
All the church need to united in the faith and encourage each other. Every christian is attending their church in different place but all are the brother and sister in the Lord, so we should work together in one heart, one mind and one God.
Paul was in prison but he still work for the Lord by letter to encourage God's servants and followers, be faithful and compete the work you have received in the Lord.
How?
Pray to the Lord let me be faithful minister and fellow servant in the Lord.
Tuesday, December 13, 2016
Devote yourselves to prayer
Colossians 4:2-6
Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful. Prayer altitude.
Paul asked them pray for them that may proclaim the mystery of Christ.
Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity.
Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.
The procedure of prayer 1)Love Him, 2)Thank Him 3)Serve Him.
His word shapes out thinking. The new life is one of prayer and thanksgiving to God. Home and household are transformed by outgoing, unselfish love in every relationship.
Why?
Paul prayed contents is the Lord himself, not Paul for God makes us do his work.
What I asked others pray for me?
How?
Devote yourselves to prayer and being watchful and thankful is the right altitude to a christian. It is our source of faith and strength.
Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful. Prayer altitude.
Paul asked them pray for them that may proclaim the mystery of Christ.
Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity.
Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.
The procedure of prayer 1)Love Him, 2)Thank Him 3)Serve Him.
His word shapes out thinking. The new life is one of prayer and thanksgiving to God. Home and household are transformed by outgoing, unselfish love in every relationship.
Why?
Paul prayed contents is the Lord himself, not Paul for God makes us do his work.
What I asked others pray for me?
How?
Devote yourselves to prayer and being watchful and thankful is the right altitude to a christian. It is our source of faith and strength.
Monday, December 12, 2016
Rules for Christian Households
Colossians 3:18-4:1
Rules for Christian Households.
Wives, submit to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord.
Husbands, love your wives, and do not be harsh with them.
Children, obey your parents in everything for this pleases the Lord.
Fathers, do not embitter your children, or they will become discouraged.
Slave, obey your earthly master in everything. Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men.
Master, provide your slaves with what is right and fair, because your know that you also have a Master in heaven.
Home and household are transformed by outgoing, unselfish love in every relationship.
Why?
This are the role the God has defined for everyone on the earth, God is the sovereign Lord, He managers everything, we serve the Lord in different Jobs and roles, make good witness for God's holy name. For we are belong to the Lord.
The rules are "in the Lord" and "reverence to the Lord"
How?
Reverence everyone who above me, for I am a christian.
Rules for Christian Households.
Wives, submit to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord.
Husbands, love your wives, and do not be harsh with them.
Children, obey your parents in everything for this pleases the Lord.
Fathers, do not embitter your children, or they will become discouraged.
Slave, obey your earthly master in everything. Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men.
Master, provide your slaves with what is right and fair, because your know that you also have a Master in heaven.
Home and household are transformed by outgoing, unselfish love in every relationship.
Why?
This are the role the God has defined for everyone on the earth, God is the sovereign Lord, He managers everything, we serve the Lord in different Jobs and roles, make good witness for God's holy name. For we are belong to the Lord.
The rules are "in the Lord" and "reverence to the Lord"
How?
Reverence everyone who above me, for I am a christian.
Sunday, December 11, 2016
事情的終局強如事情的起頭
傳道書7:1-11
12/11/2016 台南聖教會 高敏智牧師
回家的道路是奢求
我們常以為自己是老虎，原來是病貓。
人生常是虛空
思想：
贏在起跑點的錯覺
逆轉勝的永遠記錄。過程是觀戰，結局是紀錄
十字架旁的強盜
今日你要同我在樂園裏了
那美好的仗我已經打過了。
當跑的路我已經跑盡了。
所信的道我已守住
… 從此以後，有公義的冠冕為我留存
簡易大綱
一件美事 名譽的紀錄
一串鞭炮 虛空的應景
一口兩舌 肥己的欺騙 好辯
一， 名譽強如美好的膏油;人死的日子勝過人生的日子。
1.往遭喪的家去，強如往宴樂的家去;因為死是眾人的結局…？憂愁強如喜笑。智慧人的心在遭喪之家;愚昧人的心在快樂之家。
結婚教會不一定收，但是要辦安息一定收。因為結婚致詞沒人聽。安息禮拜有人聽。
因為死是眾人的結局 憂愁強如喜笑
2.他在我身上做的是一件美事
大綱：
二，聽智慧人的責備，強如聽愚昧人的歌唱。
愚昧人的笑聲，好像鍋下燒荊棘的炮聲，這也是虛空。
歌功頌德的無奈人生 虛假
我心裡柔和謙卑，你們當負我的軛，學我的樣式。
堅定不移的責備意義 真愛
再怎麼累都在神的家中的道路裡
三，勒索使智慧人變為愚妄;賄賂能敗壞人的慧心。
事情的結局強如ㄕ事情的起頭
存心忍耐的勝過居心驕傲
做執事的… 不一口兩舌…不貪不義之財
勒索 完成自我滿足
賄賂 完成自我需要
來教會不要說我有專業，專業在教會無用，
來教會要改變，改變後神就會使用專業。
不要心裡急躁惱怒，因惱怒存在愚昧人的懷中。
挑戰：
遇到亨通的日子你當喜樂;遭患難的日子你當思想;因為神使這兩樣並列，為的是叫人查不出身後有什麼事。
遭患難的日子你當思想。
在世的日子不多，我講的是心中的話，向自己講的
不要行義過分，也不要過於自逞智慧，何必自取敗亡呢？不要行惡過分，也不要為人愚昧，何必不到期而死呢？你持守這個為美，那個也不鬆手;因為敬畏神的人，必從這兩樣出來。
把欠10兩的人抓起了，結果引發公憤，自己欠千兩
12/11/2016 台南聖教會 高敏智牧師
回家的道路是奢求
我們常以為自己是老虎，原來是病貓。
人生常是虛空
思想：
贏在起跑點的錯覺
逆轉勝的永遠記錄。過程是觀戰，結局是紀錄
十字架旁的強盜
今日你要同我在樂園裏了
那美好的仗我已經打過了。
當跑的路我已經跑盡了。
所信的道我已守住
… 從此以後，有公義的冠冕為我留存
簡易大綱
一件美事 名譽的紀錄
一串鞭炮 虛空的應景
一口兩舌 肥己的欺騙 好辯
一， 名譽強如美好的膏油;人死的日子勝過人生的日子。
1.往遭喪的家去，強如往宴樂的家去;因為死是眾人的結局…？憂愁強如喜笑。智慧人的心在遭喪之家;愚昧人的心在快樂之家。
結婚教會不一定收，但是要辦安息一定收。因為結婚致詞沒人聽。安息禮拜有人聽。
因為死是眾人的結局 憂愁強如喜笑
2.他在我身上做的是一件美事
大綱：
二，聽智慧人的責備，強如聽愚昧人的歌唱。
愚昧人的笑聲，好像鍋下燒荊棘的炮聲，這也是虛空。
歌功頌德的無奈人生 虛假
我心裡柔和謙卑，你們當負我的軛，學我的樣式。
堅定不移的責備意義 真愛
再怎麼累都在神的家中的道路裡
三，勒索使智慧人變為愚妄;賄賂能敗壞人的慧心。
事情的結局強如ㄕ事情的起頭
存心忍耐的勝過居心驕傲
做執事的… 不一口兩舌…不貪不義之財
勒索 完成自我滿足
賄賂 完成自我需要
來教會不要說我有專業，專業在教會無用，
來教會要改變，改變後神就會使用專業。
不要心裡急躁惱怒，因惱怒存在愚昧人的懷中。
挑戰：
遇到亨通的日子你當喜樂;遭患難的日子你當思想;因為神使這兩樣並列，為的是叫人查不出身後有什麼事。
遭患難的日子你當思想。
在世的日子不多，我講的是心中的話，向自己講的
不要行義過分，也不要過於自逞智慧，何必自取敗亡呢？不要行惡過分，也不要為人愚昧，何必不到期而死呢？你持守這個為美，那個也不鬆手;因為敬畏神的人，必從這兩樣出來。
把欠10兩的人抓起了，結果引發公憤，自己欠千兩
Saturday, December 10, 2016
Love, peace and thankful
Colossians 3:12-17
God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. 憐憫、恩慈、謙虛、溫柔、忍耐
Over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.
Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, be thankful, let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom.
Sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. 心被恩感，歌頌神
The loving, forgiving Lord is the model for Christian behavior. His word shapes our thinking.
The new life is one of prayer and thanksgiving to God. Home and household are transformed by outgoing, unselfish love in every relationship.
Why?
Relationship with love and personal godliness with gratitude. For love can let people see Jesus in me and prayer with gratitude in our hearts is humble ourselves and give honor to the Lord.
Love those who I am not delight person. They are chosen by the Lord come to me.
How?
Let my behavior with more love and gratitude in all. Sing hymns is not only sing a song but with gratitude to God.
God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. 憐憫、恩慈、謙虛、溫柔、忍耐
Over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.
Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, be thankful, let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom.
Sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. 心被恩感，歌頌神
The loving, forgiving Lord is the model for Christian behavior. His word shapes our thinking.
The new life is one of prayer and thanksgiving to God. Home and household are transformed by outgoing, unselfish love in every relationship.
Why?
Relationship with love and personal godliness with gratitude. For love can let people see Jesus in me and prayer with gratitude in our hearts is humble ourselves and give honor to the Lord.
Love those who I am not delight person. They are chosen by the Lord come to me.
How?
Let my behavior with more love and gratitude in all. Sing hymns is not only sing a song but with gratitude to God.
Friday, December 9, 2016
Renewed in the likeness of Christ,
Colossians 3:1-11
Since you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.
Christ who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.
Put to death what ever belongs to your earthly nature. And put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator. Christ is all and is in all.
There may be good sense in rules, renewed in the likeness of Christ, taking on his character.
Why?
For we are raised with Christ, He is my life so I should live out the image of God, to honor his holy name, so I have to live in holy life. Focus on things above and discard the nature of earth.
Renew in knowledge is the progress of my life to more closer to Christ. It takes time and needs effort to make it.
Christian should put everything on earth to death, for we are dead with Christ, and pursuit thing above, above is my hope and my strength. When look down on earth, there is no hope and full of sins.
How?
Get rid of old self but put on new self, renew myself day by day, more like His character.
Since you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.
Christ who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.
Put to death what ever belongs to your earthly nature. And put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator. Christ is all and is in all.
There may be good sense in rules, renewed in the likeness of Christ, taking on his character.
Why?
For we are raised with Christ, He is my life so I should live out the image of God, to honor his holy name, so I have to live in holy life. Focus on things above and discard the nature of earth.
Renew in knowledge is the progress of my life to more closer to Christ. It takes time and needs effort to make it.
Christian should put everything on earth to death, for we are dead with Christ, and pursuit thing above, above is my hope and my strength. When look down on earth, there is no hope and full of sins.
How?
Get rid of old self but put on new self, renew myself day by day, more like His character.
Thursday, December 8, 2016
Discriminate what is true and false
Colossians 2:16-23
There were Legalism and Mysticism among Colossian church.
Legalism :All those things are mere shadows cast before what was to come.
Mysticism : They lost connection with the Head.
Since you died with Christ to the basic principles of this world, why, as though you still belonged to it, d you submit to its rules: "Do not handle DO not Taste! DO not touch!" These are all destined to perish with use, because they are based on human commands and teaching. Such regulations indeed have an appearance of wisdom, with their self-imposed worship, their false humility and their harsh treatment of the body, but they lack any value in restraining sensual indulgence.
By the death the Jewish law has been superseded: the shadow was given way to reality. "Then why behave as though you were still living the life of the world?"
Why?
The false teaching and wrong ideas Paul contests in this letter seem to be a type of Judaism which not only attempted to force the Colossian church back to particular Jewish practices like circumcision, but which also believed that they were the recipients of a special revelation not available to everyone, a revelation which they received while ascending into the heavenly realms. in this letter Paul seeks to draw the Colossian church back to the true worship of Christ the image of the invisible God, the head of the church.
How?
Understand the truth then we can distinguish what is true and false. Pray to the Lord let me have capability to distinguish the truth.
There were Legalism and Mysticism among Colossian church.
Legalism :All those things are mere shadows cast before what was to come.
Mysticism : They lost connection with the Head.
Since you died with Christ to the basic principles of this world, why, as though you still belonged to it, d you submit to its rules: "Do not handle DO not Taste! DO not touch!" These are all destined to perish with use, because they are based on human commands and teaching. Such regulations indeed have an appearance of wisdom, with their self-imposed worship, their false humility and their harsh treatment of the body, but they lack any value in restraining sensual indulgence.
By the death the Jewish law has been superseded: the shadow was given way to reality. "Then why behave as though you were still living the life of the world?"
Why?
The false teaching and wrong ideas Paul contests in this letter seem to be a type of Judaism which not only attempted to force the Colossian church back to particular Jewish practices like circumcision, but which also believed that they were the recipients of a special revelation not available to everyone, a revelation which they received while ascending into the heavenly realms. in this letter Paul seeks to draw the Colossian church back to the true worship of Christ the image of the invisible God, the head of the church.
How?
Understand the truth then we can distinguish what is true and false. Pray to the Lord let me have capability to distinguish the truth.
Wednesday, December 7, 2016
Overcome the false talk and deceive matters
Colossians 2:6-15
As you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.
You having been buried with him in baptism, in which you were also raised with him through your faith in the working of God, who raised him from the dead.
God made you alive with Christ. He forgave us all our sins.
False argument was filtering into the Colossian church from various quarters.
It was misleading and dangerous because it was based on human teaching and not on Christ.
Christ is the One who embodies 'all the fullness' of God and in him Christians find their own fulfillment.
The mysteries of God are reveled to all in Christ. The Colossian Christians should not be made to feel inferior by anyone teaching any other message.
Watch out for people who try to dazzle you with big words and intellectual double-talk arguments.
Why?
Paul did not say what is wrong but explained that Colossian Christians have learned the truth and accepted the grace of God, let them confirm their identity before the Lord.
There are many false teaching and deceive things among this world, rooted and built up our faith in Him, strength in faith as we are taught.
How?
We are a new man chosen by the Lord, out sins are canceled by God's grace, His power over all authority in the world. Pray God gives me more knowledge to against the deceive things.
As you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.
You having been buried with him in baptism, in which you were also raised with him through your faith in the working of God, who raised him from the dead.
God made you alive with Christ. He forgave us all our sins.
False argument was filtering into the Colossian church from various quarters.
It was misleading and dangerous because it was based on human teaching and not on Christ.
Christ is the One who embodies 'all the fullness' of God and in him Christians find their own fulfillment.
The mysteries of God are reveled to all in Christ. The Colossian Christians should not be made to feel inferior by anyone teaching any other message.
Watch out for people who try to dazzle you with big words and intellectual double-talk arguments.
Why?
Paul did not say what is wrong but explained that Colossian Christians have learned the truth and accepted the grace of God, let them confirm their identity before the Lord.
There are many false teaching and deceive things among this world, rooted and built up our faith in Him, strength in faith as we are taught.
How?
We are a new man chosen by the Lord, out sins are canceled by God's grace, His power over all authority in the world. Pray God gives me more knowledge to against the deceive things.
Tuesday, December 6, 2016
Encouraged in heart and united in love
Colossians 2:1-5
Encouraged in heart and united in love, so that they may have the full riches of complete understanding, in order that they may know the mystery of God, namely, Christ.
Paul presented with them in spirit and delighted to see how orderly they are and how firm their faith in Christ is.
Paul said to the Colossians church and Christian at Laodicea.
Why?
Paul encouraged those who did not meet him, that may encourage them to firm their faith in Christ.
May be we have less communication with someone who among us, we may connect them in some ways.
Paul have not been to Collosians church, he heard them form Epaphras, so Paul wrote this letter to them.
United in love and encouraged in heart is the way among fellowship.
How?
Unite in love and encouraged in heart with those around me and encourage those who far from me.
Encouraged in heart and united in love, so that they may have the full riches of complete understanding, in order that they may know the mystery of God, namely, Christ.
Paul presented with them in spirit and delighted to see how orderly they are and how firm their faith in Christ is.
Paul said to the Colossians church and Christian at Laodicea.
Why?
Paul encouraged those who did not meet him, that may encourage them to firm their faith in Christ.
May be we have less communication with someone who among us, we may connect them in some ways.
Paul have not been to Collosians church, he heard them form Epaphras, so Paul wrote this letter to them.
United in love and encouraged in heart is the way among fellowship.
How?
Unite in love and encouraged in heart with those around me and encourage those who far from me.
Monday, December 5, 2016
The secret of the gospel
Colossians 1:24-29
I have become its servant by the commission God gave me to present to you the word of God in its fullness.
To them God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.
He is the one we proclaim, admonishing(勸告) and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone fully mature in Christ.
The apostle's job is to make God's message known. The philosophers hint at secrets, at deep things known only to the initiated. This is God's open secret: Christ - in you!'
A share in God's own glory for every Christian! This is a 'secret' worth knowing.
It makes all Paul's struggle and effort 'to preach Christ to everyone' worthwhile.
Why?
Paul applied to himself the same pattern, of suffering on behalf of others, that was worked out on the cross. He is not adding to that work: Christ's saving work is complete. But in the overlapping of the ages, between Christ's resurrection and his return, God's new people will suffer as their Master did.
Secret: Paul called the the word of God and Jesus Christ as secret. Remind and encourage to dig out more about the secret to present fully mature in Christ.
How?
Nothing is important than knowing Christ Jesus. What I need to do is study more hard to read the word of God and meditate God's will and present fully mature in Christ.
I have become its servant by the commission God gave me to present to you the word of God in its fullness.
To them God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.
He is the one we proclaim, admonishing(勸告) and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone fully mature in Christ.
The apostle's job is to make God's message known. The philosophers hint at secrets, at deep things known only to the initiated. This is God's open secret: Christ - in you!'
A share in God's own glory for every Christian! This is a 'secret' worth knowing.
It makes all Paul's struggle and effort 'to preach Christ to everyone' worthwhile.
Why?
Paul applied to himself the same pattern, of suffering on behalf of others, that was worked out on the cross. He is not adding to that work: Christ's saving work is complete. But in the overlapping of the ages, between Christ's resurrection and his return, God's new people will suffer as their Master did.
Secret: Paul called the the word of God and Jesus Christ as secret. Remind and encourage to dig out more about the secret to present fully mature in Christ.
How?
Nothing is important than knowing Christ Jesus. What I need to do is study more hard to read the word of God and meditate God's will and present fully mature in Christ.
Saturday, December 3, 2016
Grace of Jesus Christ
Collosians 1:18-23
Jesus is the head of the body, the church, he is the beginning n the firstborn from among the dead.
Jesus reconciled you by Christ's physical body through death to present you holy in his sight.
Jesus making peace through his blood, shed on the cross.
Continue in your faith, established and firm not moved from the hope held out in the gospel.
The thoughts of Gods rescue mission, lifts Paul into pure poetry as he attempts to capture in words the nature and work of Christ.
Jesus is the living expression of God himself - active in creation, upholding all that exists.
Christ is first - in existence, in power, in position.
He has first place in God's new creation.
He is the head of the church and the source of its life.
Through the death of his Son God has made us his friends. This is Paul's gospel - good news indeed!
Why?
God loves us so he let Jesus shed blood on the cross.
How?
Exclude everything that is obstacle to Jesus Christ.
Jesus is the head of the body, the church, he is the beginning n the firstborn from among the dead.
Jesus reconciled you by Christ's physical body through death to present you holy in his sight.
Jesus making peace through his blood, shed on the cross.
Continue in your faith, established and firm not moved from the hope held out in the gospel.
The thoughts of Gods rescue mission, lifts Paul into pure poetry as he attempts to capture in words the nature and work of Christ.
Jesus is the living expression of God himself - active in creation, upholding all that exists.
Christ is first - in existence, in power, in position.
He has first place in God's new creation.
He is the head of the church and the source of its life.
Through the death of his Son God has made us his friends. This is Paul's gospel - good news indeed!
Why?
God loves us so he let Jesus shed blood on the cross.
How?
Exclude everything that is obstacle to Jesus Christ.
Friday, December 2, 2016
The life energy from gospel ;Colossians 1
Colossians 1:1-17
The faith and love that spring from the hope that is stored up for you in heaven and that you have already heard about in the world of truth, the gospel that has come to you.
No stopped praying for you and asking God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all spiritual wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives,so that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and please him in every way.
For by him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible. He is before all things, and in him all things hold together.
Why?
Because we have hope from Jesus Christ so we may live out by faith and love. Faith is to the Lord and love is to the people.
Praying purpose is let God fill us with knowledge of his will and understand the Spirit gives, so we may live a life worthy of the Lord and please him in every way. Not only specific way but anyway we are doing.
Jesus has the same position and authority of the Lord, He created the world and everything in him hold together.
How?
All of the energy of faith and love are from the Lord, for God is my strength, my way and my hope.
The faith and love that spring from the hope that is stored up for you in heaven and that you have already heard about in the world of truth, the gospel that has come to you.
No stopped praying for you and asking God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all spiritual wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives,so that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and please him in every way.
For by him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible. He is before all things, and in him all things hold together.
Why?
Because we have hope from Jesus Christ so we may live out by faith and love. Faith is to the Lord and love is to the people.
Praying purpose is let God fill us with knowledge of his will and understand the Spirit gives, so we may live a life worthy of the Lord and please him in every way. Not only specific way but anyway we are doing.
Jesus has the same position and authority of the Lord, He created the world and everything in him hold together.
How?
All of the energy of faith and love are from the Lord, for God is my strength, my way and my hope.
Sunday, November 27, 2016
安靜，知道我是神
11/27/2016. Christmas 會 森鄉
Matsuda pastor in Japan
Psalm 46:10 你們要休息，要知道我是神！我必在外邦中被尊崇，在遍地上也被尊崇。
Be still, and know that I am God
Luke 2:7-12
Matsuda pastor in Japan
Psalm 46:10 你們要休息，要知道我是神！我必在外邦中被尊崇，在遍地上也被尊崇。
Be still, and know that I am God
Luke 2:7-12
- 他們在那裡的時候，馬利亞的產期到了，
- 就生了頭胎的兒子，用布包起來，放在馬槽裡，因為客店裡沒有地方。
- 在伯利恆之野地裡有牧羊的人，夜間按著更次看守羊群。
- 有主的使者站在他們旁邊，主的榮光四面照著他們；牧羊的人就甚懼怕。
- 那天使對他們說：不要懼怕！我報給你們大喜的信息，是關乎萬民的；
- 因今天在大衛的城裡，為你們生了救主，就是主基督。
- 你們要看見一個嬰孩，包著布，臥在馬槽裡，那就是記號了。
耶穌來到世界是安靜的來，他沒有吵鬧，他沒有喧嘩！在那馬槽裏。
我們要安靜、我們要休息、神說他一直在做工。所有的事是神在成就，我們只是配搭，明白神的作為。
Still.
我們要安靜、我們要休息、神說他一直在做工。所有的事是神在成就，我們只是配搭，明白神的作為。
Still.
Saturday, November 26, 2016
Remember my idendity before thr Lord
Esther p:11-16
They killed seventy-five thousand of them but did not lay their hands on the plunder.
Why?
There can be no execution for Esther's vindictive request(unless it simply accounts for the feast being celebrated an different days in Susa and the country.
Why Esther extended execution one more day?
It is the war between hair of Mordecai and Haman's hair of Armory
How?
Remember what the identity we are?
They killed seventy-five thousand of them but did not lay their hands on the plunder.
Why?
There can be no execution for Esther's vindictive request(unless it simply accounts for the feast being celebrated an different days in Susa and the country.
Why Esther extended execution one more day?
It is the war between hair of Mordecai and Haman's hair of Armory
How?
Remember what the identity we are?
Friday, November 25, 2016
Jewish revenge
Esther 9:1-10
When the appointed day arrives,the Jews rid themselves of their enemies,includeing Haman's ten sons; but there is no looting.
When the appointed day arrives,the Jews rid themselves of their enemies,includeing Haman's ten sons; but there is no looting.
Thursday, November 24, 2016
There is peace in Christ
Esther 8:15-18
For the Jews it was a time of happiness and joy, gladness and honor.
Why?
People will know that the joy and safety is the blessing from the Lord. There are suffering and challenge on the world, only peace is in Jesus Christ.
How?
Have faith in Jesus Christ for God blesses his people,victory belongs to those who trust in Him.
For the Jews it was a time of happiness and joy, gladness and honor.
Why?
People will know that the joy and safety is the blessing from the Lord. There are suffering and challenge on the world, only peace is in Jesus Christ.
How?
Have faith in Jesus Christ for God blesses his people,victory belongs to those who trust in Him.
Wednesday, November 23, 2016
May God's Holy name be exalted in the world
Esther 8:9-14
They wrote out all Mordecai's orders to the Jews, and to the satraps, governors and nobles of the 127 provinces stretching from India to Cush.
The king's edict granted the Jews in every city the right to assemble and protect themselves; to destroy, kill and annihilate(殲滅) any armed force of an nationality or province that might attack them and their women and children; and to plunder the property of their enemies.
But in answer to Esther's further plea the king authorizes a second decree permitting the Jews to fight back.
The Jews were allowed to treat their enemies exactly as they were to have been treated themselves.
Why?
Because previous edict had been delivered to 127 provinces, so Mordecai's order has to send to all provinces either to protect Jews and their family.
It is the honor of the Jews, people of God. Honor the name of our mighty God!
How?
May the Lord give me strength to honor his Holy name in my little work! May God's Holy name be exalted in the world!
They wrote out all Mordecai's orders to the Jews, and to the satraps, governors and nobles of the 127 provinces stretching from India to Cush.
The king's edict granted the Jews in every city the right to assemble and protect themselves; to destroy, kill and annihilate(殲滅) any armed force of an nationality or province that might attack them and their women and children; and to plunder the property of their enemies.
But in answer to Esther's further plea the king authorizes a second decree permitting the Jews to fight back.
The Jews were allowed to treat their enemies exactly as they were to have been treated themselves.
Why?
Because previous edict had been delivered to 127 provinces, so Mordecai's order has to send to all provinces either to protect Jews and their family.
It is the honor of the Jews, people of God. Honor the name of our mighty God!
How?
May the Lord give me strength to honor his Holy name in my little work! May God's Holy name be exalted in the world!
Tuesday, November 22, 2016
After trial the joy and justice come
Esther 8:1-8
That same day King Xerxes gave Queen Esther the estate of Haman. And Mordecai came intothe presence of the king, the king took off his signet ring, which he had reclaimed from Haman, and presented it to Mordecai.
Esther again pleaded with the king, she begged him to put an end to the evil plan of Haman the Agagite, which he had devised against the Jews.
King Xerxes replied to Queen Esther and to Mordecai the Jew, write another decree in the king's name in behalf of the Jews as seems best to you, and seal it with the king's signet ring.
There still remains the problem of Haman's edict. Since it was issued in the king's name and under his seal it cannot be revoked. But in answer to Esther's further plea the king authorizes a second decree permitting the Jews to fight back.
Once the king had given his ring to Haman. Now he gives it to Mordecai, making him the second most powerful man in the land.
Why?
God allowed the evil decree be issued now then be updated by new decree. God gives us the testimony and trial to let us has better faith and strength.
All the frustration and tear were erased and became joy. This is the just of God be done and God saved his people in new way. Unbelievable thing comes true, it is the hand of Mighty God did.
How?
Praise to the Lord and give honor to our mighty God.
That same day King Xerxes gave Queen Esther the estate of Haman. And Mordecai came intothe presence of the king, the king took off his signet ring, which he had reclaimed from Haman, and presented it to Mordecai.
Esther again pleaded with the king, she begged him to put an end to the evil plan of Haman the Agagite, which he had devised against the Jews.
King Xerxes replied to Queen Esther and to Mordecai the Jew, write another decree in the king's name in behalf of the Jews as seems best to you, and seal it with the king's signet ring.
There still remains the problem of Haman's edict. Since it was issued in the king's name and under his seal it cannot be revoked. But in answer to Esther's further plea the king authorizes a second decree permitting the Jews to fight back.
Once the king had given his ring to Haman. Now he gives it to Mordecai, making him the second most powerful man in the land.
Why?
God allowed the evil decree be issued now then be updated by new decree. God gives us the testimony and trial to let us has better faith and strength.
All the frustration and tear were erased and became joy. This is the just of God be done and God saved his people in new way. Unbelievable thing comes true, it is the hand of Mighty God did.
How?
Praise to the Lord and give honor to our mighty God.
Monday, November 21, 2016
The end of vile man
Esther 7:7-10
"Will he even molest(騷擾,調戲) the queen while she is with me in the house?"
They handed Haman on the gallows he had prepared for Mordecai, Then the king's fury subsided.
And his action in throwing himself as Esther's feet as she reclines on her couch only succeeds in adding attempted rape to the charges against him(強加了對他的指控).
In the supreme irony of things, he ends his life on the gallows he himself had made.
Why?
It is not know why king had so interpretation to Haman's action, may be under the fury king saw Haman's behavior was against queen and king.
Be a humble and righteous man before the Lord. What can I do?
How?
Humble myself everyday and examine myself before the Lord, obey the commands of God!
"Will he even molest(騷擾,調戲) the queen while she is with me in the house?"
They handed Haman on the gallows he had prepared for Mordecai, Then the king's fury subsided.
And his action in throwing himself as Esther's feet as she reclines on her couch only succeeds in adding attempted rape to the charges against him(強加了對他的指控).
In the supreme irony of things, he ends his life on the gallows he himself had made.
Why?
It is not know why king had so interpretation to Haman's action, may be under the fury king saw Haman's behavior was against queen and king.
Be a humble and righteous man before the Lord. What can I do?
How?
Humble myself everyday and examine myself before the Lord, obey the commands of God!
Saturday, November 19, 2016
Pray to the Lord save my people who do not know the truth
Esther 7:1-5
Esther answered, "If I have found favor with you, O king, and if ti pleases your majesty, grant me my life- this is my petition. And spare my people - this is my request. For I and my people have been sold for destruction and slander and annihilation(湮滅)"
The adversary and enemy is this vile Haman. Then Haman was terrified before the king and queen.
After dinner on the second evening, Esther makes her request. Haman is dumbfouned (錯愕).
Why?
Esther connected her life and her people together. For she wanted to save her people's life.
Esther prepared banquet for the king and Haman second times for she may know what the king will asked her, so she prepare the answer to the second banquet.
Does my petition and my request before the Lord connect to my people who do not know the Lord?
How?
Pray to the Lord save my people in my country! They do not know the truth!
Esther answered, "If I have found favor with you, O king, and if ti pleases your majesty, grant me my life- this is my petition. And spare my people - this is my request. For I and my people have been sold for destruction and slander and annihilation(湮滅)"
The adversary and enemy is this vile Haman. Then Haman was terrified before the king and queen.
After dinner on the second evening, Esther makes her request. Haman is dumbfouned (錯愕).
Why?
Esther connected her life and her people together. For she wanted to save her people's life.
Esther prepared banquet for the king and Haman second times for she may know what the king will asked her, so she prepare the answer to the second banquet.
Does my petition and my request before the Lord connect to my people who do not know the Lord?
How?
Pray to the Lord save my people in my country! They do not know the truth!
Friday, November 18, 2016
God is the sovereign Lord on the world and in the heaven!
Esther 6:10-14
Haman rushed home, with his head covered in grief.
Haman's advisers and his wife Eresh said to him, "Since Mordecai, before whom your downfall has started, is of Jewish origin, you cannot stand against him - you will surely come to ruin!"
Embarrassed and humiliated, he finds no comfort at home. His superstitious(迷信) wife and friends see in this the beginning of his downfall, 'Mordecai is a Jew.' the writer has Haman's wife say, 'you cannot overcome him.'
Why?
Haman's wife and friends knew that Mordecai is a Jew, now the back of Jew is God, so they will predict that Haman cannot overcome him.
All who slander the Lord and his people will cover in grief.
God is the sovereign Lord!
How?
God is the sovereign Lord on the world and in the heaven!
Haman rushed home, with his head covered in grief.
Haman's advisers and his wife Eresh said to him, "Since Mordecai, before whom your downfall has started, is of Jewish origin, you cannot stand against him - you will surely come to ruin!"
Embarrassed and humiliated, he finds no comfort at home. His superstitious(迷信) wife and friends see in this the beginning of his downfall, 'Mordecai is a Jew.' the writer has Haman's wife say, 'you cannot overcome him.'
Why?
Haman's wife and friends knew that Mordecai is a Jew, now the back of Jew is God, so they will predict that Haman cannot overcome him.
All who slander the Lord and his people will cover in grief.
God is the sovereign Lord!
How?
God is the sovereign Lord on the world and in the heaven!
Thursday, November 17, 2016
God makes one raise and down
Esther 6:1-9
That night the king could not sleep, so he ordered the book of the chronicles, the record of his reign, to be brought in and red to him. It was found recorded there that Mordecai had exposed Bigthana and Teresh, two of the king's officers who guarded the doorway, who had conspired to assassinate King Xerxes, And King found Mordecai did not received any honor and recognition.
Mordecai was be honored by Haman's suggested to the man who king delight.
This is the turning-point of the story. The king cannot sleep, and reads the court diary, which reminds him of his debt to Mordecai.
What should be done for the man I want to honor? he asks Haman.
Why?
God is the authority God in all matters. The timing and place and the right person come on the right time.
God makes righteous man raise and evil one down. Doing the right thing God will give honor to us someday. So all the suffering and pain will get the repayment from the Lord in his plan.
Under the incapable king and malicious Haman, God make thing changed.
How?
Do not complain and angry but trust in the Lord who will make righteous things done!
That night the king could not sleep, so he ordered the book of the chronicles, the record of his reign, to be brought in and red to him. It was found recorded there that Mordecai had exposed Bigthana and Teresh, two of the king's officers who guarded the doorway, who had conspired to assassinate King Xerxes, And King found Mordecai did not received any honor and recognition.
Mordecai was be honored by Haman's suggested to the man who king delight.
This is the turning-point of the story. The king cannot sleep, and reads the court diary, which reminds him of his debt to Mordecai.
What should be done for the man I want to honor? he asks Haman.
Why?
God is the authority God in all matters. The timing and place and the right person come on the right time.
God makes righteous man raise and evil one down. Doing the right thing God will give honor to us someday. So all the suffering and pain will get the repayment from the Lord in his plan.
Under the incapable king and malicious Haman, God make thing changed.
How?
Do not complain and angry but trust in the Lord who will make righteous things done!
Wednesday, November 16, 2016
Be humble and tender to everyone we met
Esther 5:9-14
After the dinner Haman was happy and in high spirit. But when he saw Mordecai at the king's gate, he was filled with rage against Mordecai. Nevertheless, Haman restrained himself and went home.
His wife and all his friends said to him, "Have a gallows built 75 feet high and ask the king in the morning to have Mordecai hanged on it. Then go with the king to the dinner and be happy. This suggestion delight Haman, and he had the gallows built.
Haman - suspecting nothing, knowing nothing of Esther's relationship to Mordecai - is greatly flatted. He goes home and builds a gallows topping the city wall, on which he intends to hang his enemy.
Why?
Haman saw there is one man do not give honor to him, so he was filled with rage against Mordecai.
Haman is proud in his wealth and power, so he looks down everyone.
How?
Even have power or reputation, be humble and tender to everyone, serve our neighbor with love and humble and courtesy.
After the dinner Haman was happy and in high spirit. But when he saw Mordecai at the king's gate, he was filled with rage against Mordecai. Nevertheless, Haman restrained himself and went home.
His wife and all his friends said to him, "Have a gallows built 75 feet high and ask the king in the morning to have Mordecai hanged on it. Then go with the king to the dinner and be happy. This suggestion delight Haman, and he had the gallows built.
Haman - suspecting nothing, knowing nothing of Esther's relationship to Mordecai - is greatly flatted. He goes home and builds a gallows topping the city wall, on which he intends to hang his enemy.
Why?
Haman saw there is one man do not give honor to him, so he was filled with rage against Mordecai.
Haman is proud in his wealth and power, so he looks down everyone.
How?
Even have power or reputation, be humble and tender to everyone, serve our neighbor with love and humble and courtesy.
Tuesday, November 15, 2016
Lift up my eyes to the mountains
Esther 5:1-8
When king saw Queen Esther standing in the court, he was pleased with her and held out to her the gold scepter that was in his hand. So Esther approached and touched the tip of the scepter.
Esther asked king together with Haman come to the banquet Esther had prepared. Then king asked Esther what is your request? Even up to half the kingdom, it will be granted.
Esther did not say but asked Haman and king come to her banquet next day.
The king permits a audience. But Esther proceeds cannily(大膽). She invites the king and his favorite to dinner. In the mellow(醇厚) after-dinner atmosphere she give a second invitation.
Why?
Under the blessing of the Lord, king liked Queen Esther and permitted her coming to court.
This is the power of the Lord, when we have trouble, let's pray to the Lord, God will make the great things.
How?
Expect God make great things! This is my faith and my strength. lift up my eyes to the mountains - where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth (Psalm 121:1).
When king saw Queen Esther standing in the court, he was pleased with her and held out to her the gold scepter that was in his hand. So Esther approached and touched the tip of the scepter.
Esther asked king together with Haman come to the banquet Esther had prepared. Then king asked Esther what is your request? Even up to half the kingdom, it will be granted.
Esther did not say but asked Haman and king come to her banquet next day.
The king permits a audience. But Esther proceeds cannily(大膽). She invites the king and his favorite to dinner. In the mellow(醇厚) after-dinner atmosphere she give a second invitation.
Why?
Under the blessing of the Lord, king liked Queen Esther and permitted her coming to court.
This is the power of the Lord, when we have trouble, let's pray to the Lord, God will make the great things.
How?
Expect God make great things! This is my faith and my strength. lift up my eyes to the mountains - where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth (Psalm 121:1).
Monday, November 14, 2016
Devote myself to the Lord wholly!
Esther 4:12-17
Who knows but that you have come to royal position for such a time as this?
Do not eat or rink for three days, night or day. I and my maid will fast as you do. When this is done, I will go to the king, even though it is against the law. And if I perish, I perish.
Anxiously she agrees to the the risk. The Jewish community must support her in fasting (and presumably the prayer that goes with it)
Mordecai makes no mention of God, but his faith makes him certain that help will come, even if Esther refuses. If she does, though, she will forfeit(喪失) her own life. He piles on the pressure.
Why?
Esther like to devote her life to save life of Jews. For she knows that she is the Queen, this position is the chance and opportunity, only she can make it possible. Esther knew she would be a Queen is God's arrangement for Jews.
How?
Devote myself to the Lord for the calling from the Lord! For my life and all I have are the gifts from the Lord. Devote myself to the Lord wholly!
Who knows but that you have come to royal position for such a time as this?
Do not eat or rink for three days, night or day. I and my maid will fast as you do. When this is done, I will go to the king, even though it is against the law. And if I perish, I perish.
Anxiously she agrees to the the risk. The Jewish community must support her in fasting (and presumably the prayer that goes with it)
Mordecai makes no mention of God, but his faith makes him certain that help will come, even if Esther refuses. If she does, though, she will forfeit(喪失) her own life. He piles on the pressure.
Why?
Esther like to devote her life to save life of Jews. For she knows that she is the Queen, this position is the chance and opportunity, only she can make it possible. Esther knew she would be a Queen is God's arrangement for Jews.
How?
Devote myself to the Lord for the calling from the Lord! For my life and all I have are the gifts from the Lord. Devote myself to the Lord wholly!
Sunday, November 13, 2016
Saturday, November 12, 2016
Facing the risk
Esther 4:5-11
Esther summoned Hathach, one of the king's eunuchs assigned to attend her, and ordered him to find out what was troubling Mordecai and why.
Mordecai urged her to go into the king's presence to beg for mercy and plead with him for her people.
There is a law that anyone who without being summoned approaches the king in the inner court will be put to death, except king extends the gold scepter to him and spare his life.
The entire fate of the Jews now depends on Esther. She alone has access to the king.
But she has not been summoned to him for a month. The only way open to her is the dangerous step of going to him unbidden.
Why?
Mordecai knew only Esther can help to spare life of all Jews.
But it is dangerous step of going to king unbidden.
Facing dangerous became hesitate is normal reaction to most people.
When I was be asked devote myself, what makes me hesitate? Life, family, my loved career ?
What can I do? Pray to the Lord and do it if it is good to most people.
How?
Beyond the limitation and pray to the Lord, let us have higher vision to see all of this world.
Esther summoned Hathach, one of the king's eunuchs assigned to attend her, and ordered him to find out what was troubling Mordecai and why.
Mordecai urged her to go into the king's presence to beg for mercy and plead with him for her people.
There is a law that anyone who without being summoned approaches the king in the inner court will be put to death, except king extends the gold scepter to him and spare his life.
The entire fate of the Jews now depends on Esther. She alone has access to the king.
But she has not been summoned to him for a month. The only way open to her is the dangerous step of going to him unbidden.
Why?
Mordecai knew only Esther can help to spare life of all Jews.
But it is dangerous step of going to king unbidden.
Facing dangerous became hesitate is normal reaction to most people.
When I was be asked devote myself, what makes me hesitate? Life, family, my loved career ?
What can I do? Pray to the Lord and do it if it is good to most people.
How?
Beyond the limitation and pray to the Lord, let us have higher vision to see all of this world.
Friday, November 11, 2016
My help comes from the Lord
Esther 3:12-4:3
There were written in the name of Kings Xerxes himself and sealed with his own ring. Dispatches were sent by couriers to all the king's provinces with the order to destroy, kill and annihilate all the Jews.
When Mordecai learned of all that had been done, he tore his clothes. put on sackcloth and ashes, and went out into the city, wailing loudly ad bitterly.
Esther was told about Mordecai she was in great distress. She set clothes for him to put on instead of his sackcloth, but he would not accept them.
Why?
Jews and Mordecai wailing and put on sackcloth to show the distress and helpless, they pray to the Lord honestly.
Psa51:17 My sacrifice, O God, is a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart you, God, will not despise.
It was caused by Mordecai, but Mordecai did not go to ask Haman or any others but prayed to the Lord.
How?
God only is my help and way!
Psalm 121:1-2 I lift up my eyes to the mountains— where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.
There were written in the name of Kings Xerxes himself and sealed with his own ring. Dispatches were sent by couriers to all the king's provinces with the order to destroy, kill and annihilate all the Jews.
When Mordecai learned of all that had been done, he tore his clothes. put on sackcloth and ashes, and went out into the city, wailing loudly ad bitterly.
Esther was told about Mordecai she was in great distress. She set clothes for him to put on instead of his sackcloth, but he would not accept them.
Why?
Jews and Mordecai wailing and put on sackcloth to show the distress and helpless, they pray to the Lord honestly.
Psa51:17 My sacrifice, O God, is a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart you, God, will not despise.
It was caused by Mordecai, but Mordecai did not go to ask Haman or any others but prayed to the Lord.
How?
God only is my help and way!
Psalm 121:1-2 I lift up my eyes to the mountains— where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.
My help comes from the Lord
Esther 3:12-4:3
There were written in the name of Kings Xerxes himself and sealed with his own ring. Dispatches were sent by couriers to all the king's provinces with the order to destroy, kill and annihilate all the Jews.
When Mordecai learned of all that had been done, he tore his clothes. put on sackcloth and ashes, and went out into the city, wailing loudly ad bitterly.
Esther was told about Mordecai she was in great distress. She set clothes for him to put on instead of his sackcloth, but he would not accept them.
Why?
Jews and Mordecai wailing and put on sackcloth to show the distress and helpless, they pray to the Lord honestly.
Psa51:17 My sacrifice, O God, is a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart you, God, will not despise.
It was caused by Mordecai, but Mordecai did not go to ask Haman or any others but prayed to the Lord.
How?
God only is my help and way!
Psalm 121:1-2 I lift up my eyes to the mountains— where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.
There were written in the name of Kings Xerxes himself and sealed with his own ring. Dispatches were sent by couriers to all the king's provinces with the order to destroy, kill and annihilate all the Jews.
When Mordecai learned of all that had been done, he tore his clothes. put on sackcloth and ashes, and went out into the city, wailing loudly ad bitterly.
Esther was told about Mordecai she was in great distress. She set clothes for him to put on instead of his sackcloth, but he would not accept them.
Why?
Jews and Mordecai wailing and put on sackcloth to show the distress and helpless, they pray to the Lord honestly.
Psa51:17 My sacrifice, O God, is a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart you, God, will not despise.
It was caused by Mordecai, but Mordecai did not go to ask Haman or any others but prayed to the Lord.
How?
God only is my help and way!
Psalm 121:1-2 I lift up my eyes to the mountains— where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.
Thursday, November 10, 2016
Fatal attack
Esther 3:7-11
There is a certain people dispersed and scattered among the peoples in all the provinces of your kingdom whose customs are different from those of all other people and who do not obey the king's laws; it is not in the king's best interest to tolerate them. Haman said to king and king allow Haman to do with the people as he please.
Haman lived in a fate-ridden society where the court diary for the year's event was worked out by casting lots. So he must choose a 'lucky day'.
The king's assent(同意) is easily won by accusing the Jews of rebellion and promising a huge rake-off: 340,000kg of silver. Haman plans to raise the money by plundering Jewish goods and confiscating their lands.
Someone will talk about things make people confused their mind and decision.
There are many cases like this to assassinate Christians in the world.
How?
Pray to the Lord protect us and give us the strength and wisdom and faith to against those enemy in the world.
There is a certain people dispersed and scattered among the peoples in all the provinces of your kingdom whose customs are different from those of all other people and who do not obey the king's laws; it is not in the king's best interest to tolerate them. Haman said to king and king allow Haman to do with the people as he please.
Haman lived in a fate-ridden society where the court diary for the year's event was worked out by casting lots. So he must choose a 'lucky day'.
The king's assent(同意) is easily won by accusing the Jews of rebellion and promising a huge rake-off: 340,000kg of silver. Haman plans to raise the money by plundering Jewish goods and confiscating their lands.
Why?
Haman did not mentioned Jews to the king for he wanted to please king rid of people who are not obey king's law. He try to please the king and earn the trust, not focus on some special purposes.Someone will talk about things make people confused their mind and decision.
There are many cases like this to assassinate Christians in the world.
How?
Pray to the Lord protect us and give us the strength and wisdom and faith to against those enemy in the world.
Wednesday, November 9, 2016
Something more important than life
Esther 3:1-6
All the royal officials at the king's gate knelt down and paid honor to Haman, for the king had commanded this concerning him. But Mordecai would not kneel down or pay him honor.
They told Haman about it to see whether Mordecai's behavior would be tolerated, for he had told them he was a Jew.
Yet having learned who Mordecai's people were, he scorned(輕視) the idea of killing only Mordecai, Instead Haman looked for a way to destroy all Mordecai's people, the Jews, through out the whole kingdom of Xerxes.
Why?
We are not told why Mordecai refuses to bow to Haman. He must have considered that Haman's demand went beyond court courtesy and required a degree of worship that cut across his own faith. In his unreasoning fury Haman determines on 'ethnic cleansing' to rid Persia of the entire Jewish race.
Mordecai is keeping his faith and do not worship others except God even it could lose his life.
Worshiping is respect someone beyond your position in Persia.
How?
Keep my faith of Christian in this world, so something I don't do it and something I have to do in my life. Oh! God help me to keep these.
All the royal officials at the king's gate knelt down and paid honor to Haman, for the king had commanded this concerning him. But Mordecai would not kneel down or pay him honor.
They told Haman about it to see whether Mordecai's behavior would be tolerated, for he had told them he was a Jew.
Yet having learned who Mordecai's people were, he scorned(輕視) the idea of killing only Mordecai, Instead Haman looked for a way to destroy all Mordecai's people, the Jews, through out the whole kingdom of Xerxes.
Why?
We are not told why Mordecai refuses to bow to Haman. He must have considered that Haman's demand went beyond court courtesy and required a degree of worship that cut across his own faith. In his unreasoning fury Haman determines on 'ethnic cleansing' to rid Persia of the entire Jewish race.
Mordecai is keeping his faith and do not worship others except God even it could lose his life.
Worshiping is respect someone beyond your position in Persia.
How?
Keep my faith of Christian in this world, so something I don't do it and something I have to do in my life. Oh! God help me to keep these.
Tuesday, November 8, 2016
To be a reliable man
Esther 2:19-23
Mordecai was sitting at the king's gate, he found two of the king's offices who guarded the doorway became angry and conspired to assassinate King Xerxes. Mordecai told Queen Esther, who in turn reported it to the king, giving credit to Mordecai.
Esther's Jewish identity is kept secret: this is important for the plot as the story unfolds. So too is Mordecai's discovery of a plan to assassinate the king, which is written into the court records.
Why?
Mordecai is sitting at the King's gate, may be he is a some official under king for the favor of Esther is Queen. So Mordecai discovered two officials plan to assassinate the king.
Mordecai do his job honesty and reported the situation to protect the king. Even it is a little thing, but someday it will be repay by the Lord through our boss.
How?
Do the best in our job, be a reliable man to honor the name of God.
Mordecai was sitting at the king's gate, he found two of the king's offices who guarded the doorway became angry and conspired to assassinate King Xerxes. Mordecai told Queen Esther, who in turn reported it to the king, giving credit to Mordecai.
Esther's Jewish identity is kept secret: this is important for the plot as the story unfolds. So too is Mordecai's discovery of a plan to assassinate the king, which is written into the court records.
Why?
Mordecai is sitting at the King's gate, may be he is a some official under king for the favor of Esther is Queen. So Mordecai discovered two officials plan to assassinate the king.
Mordecai do his job honesty and reported the situation to protect the king. Even it is a little thing, but someday it will be repay by the Lord through our boss.
How?
Do the best in our job, be a reliable man to honor the name of God.
Monday, November 7, 2016
Won the admiration of everyone
Esther 2:12-18
Now the king was attracted to Esther more than to any of the other women, and she won his favor and approval more than any of the other virgins. So he set a royal crown on her head and made her queen instead of Vashti.
Esther, just as she was, won the admiration of everyone who saw her.
King proclaimed a holiday throughout the provinces and distributed gifts with royal liberality.
When her turn comes, she delights the king and he makes her his queen.
Mordecal would have been nearly 120 if he personally had been taken captive in 597. It probably means that his family was among the captives.
Why?
Esther lost her family so Mordecal adopted her as his daughter. And took care of Esther.
The personality won the admiration of everyone so Esther won the queen from king.
A orphan became a queen one night, for the Lord's hands was with her and leads the way ahead for the future.
There is nothing impossible to the God. God's power is beyond our imagination.
Humble ourselves and love others show good personality before men to win the admiration and give honor to the Lord!
How?
Trust in the Lord and follow God's leading, God is good!
Now the king was attracted to Esther more than to any of the other women, and she won his favor and approval more than any of the other virgins. So he set a royal crown on her head and made her queen instead of Vashti.
Esther, just as she was, won the admiration of everyone who saw her.
King proclaimed a holiday throughout the provinces and distributed gifts with royal liberality.
When her turn comes, she delights the king and he makes her his queen.
Mordecal would have been nearly 120 if he personally had been taken captive in 597. It probably means that his family was among the captives.
Why?
Esther lost her family so Mordecal adopted her as his daughter. And took care of Esther.
The personality won the admiration of everyone so Esther won the queen from king.
A orphan became a queen one night, for the Lord's hands was with her and leads the way ahead for the future.
There is nothing impossible to the God. God's power is beyond our imagination.
Humble ourselves and love others show good personality before men to win the admiration and give honor to the Lord!
How?
Trust in the Lord and follow God's leading, God is good!
Sunday, November 6, 2016
約珥之夜
2016/11/05 台南聖教會
先知：當代的社論
時代精神 vs. 時代信息
時代精神會隨著時間而改變，如過去周星馳的臺詞
人物：長老 居民。醉漢 祭司 農夫
國家：埃及，希臘，推羅，西頓，非利士
君王？巴比倫？亞述？
所以估計成書時間約在約阿施做王時，他七歲登基，祭司主政
蝗災
以前使埃及人知道祂是耶和華
現在是教以色列人知道祂是耶和華
2：1 在錫安吹角 居民都要發顫
2：2 黑暗、幽冥、密雲、烏黑
2：3 火焰燒盡 沒有一樣能躲避
2：4-11 耶和華發聲，蝗蟲大軍
2：12 嚴肅會，悔改歸向神，不是殺蟲劑，不是基因改造，不是高牧師禱告
2：18-27 耶和華發熱心，必賜給你們五穀、新酒，和油
2：28-29 聖靈澆灌，凡有血氣的
2：30-31 奇事，有血，有火，有煙柱
2：32 在錫安山，耶路撒冷必有逃脫的人
神的審判與祝福的應許
在錫安
蝗蟲接二連三的災難
麻布哀號1
苦難的土地與世代
麻布哀號2
斷絕的敬拜與祭司
撕裂心腸的悔改與歸向神
你們要在錫安吹角，分定禁食的日子，宣告嚴肅會
耶和華就為自己的地發熱心
我必賜
開鐮吧！因為莊稼熟了；踐踏吧！因為酒醡滿了。酒池盈溢；他們的罪惡甚大
啟14：13-16：鐮刀
先知：當代的社論
時代精神 vs. 時代信息
時代精神會隨著時間而改變，如過去周星馳的臺詞
人物：長老 居民。醉漢 祭司 農夫
國家：埃及，希臘，推羅，西頓，非利士
君王？巴比倫？亞述？
所以估計成書時間約在約阿施做王時，他七歲登基，祭司主政
蝗災
以前使埃及人知道祂是耶和華
現在是教以色列人知道祂是耶和華
2：1 在錫安吹角 居民都要發顫
2：2 黑暗、幽冥、密雲、烏黑
2：3 火焰燒盡 沒有一樣能躲避
2：4-11 耶和華發聲，蝗蟲大軍
2：12 嚴肅會，悔改歸向神，不是殺蟲劑，不是基因改造，不是高牧師禱告
2：18-27 耶和華發熱心，必賜給你們五穀、新酒，和油
2：28-29 聖靈澆灌，凡有血氣的
2：30-31 奇事，有血，有火，有煙柱
2：32 在錫安山，耶路撒冷必有逃脫的人
神的審判與祝福的應許
在錫安
蝗蟲接二連三的災難
麻布哀號1
苦難的土地與世代
麻布哀號2
斷絕的敬拜與祭司
撕裂心腸的悔改與歸向神
你們要在錫安吹角，分定禁食的日子，宣告嚴肅會
耶和華就為自己的地發熱心
我必賜
開鐮吧！因為莊稼熟了；踐踏吧！因為酒醡滿了。酒池盈溢；他們的罪惡甚大
啟14：13-16：鐮刀
- 我又觀看，見有一片白雲，雲上坐著一位好像人子，頭上戴著金冠冕，手裡拿著快鐮刀。
- 又有一位天使從殿中出來，向那坐在雲上的大聲喊著說：伸出你的鐮刀來收割；因為收割的時候已經到了，地上的莊稼已經熟透了。
- 那坐在雲上的，就把鐮刀扔在地上，地上的莊稼就被收割了。
- 又有一位天使從天上的殿中出來，他也拿著快鐮刀。
- 又有一位天使從祭壇中出來，是有權柄管火的，向拿著快鐮刀的大聲喊著說：伸出快鐮刀來，收取地上葡萄樹的果子，因為葡萄熟透了！
- 那天使就把鐮刀扔在地上，收取了地上的葡萄，丟在神忿怒的大酒醡中。
有道理卻無道路
2016/11/6 經文： 太23:1-7 高敏智牧師
昨晚提到時代觀點
思想：
我們所站的觀點是否正確，
太15:8
23:2
法利賽人坐在摩西的位置上，律法的位子，大法官的位置
道路的評估，果效
1.時針，分針，秒針的賽跑速度？
價值的果效！
2.大兒子與小兒子的葡萄園工作？
懊悔的意義
3.法利賽人的筵席？洗手/親嘴/抹油
態度的關鍵！愛多與少，信救了你
自認為知的道理 失去道路
巴蘭 我就轉回 陷以色列人於罪中
約伯 我的怒氣向你和你的兩個朋友
彼得
猶大
自認為不知道 擁有道路
馬利亞
以斯帖 轉憂慮為喜樂
大綱：
1.他們所說的，都要聽，但不要學
領導統御 「動」 的關鍵 僕人的心 跟我來，使徒制
跟我來的秘訣： 門徒訓練的心
學我的模式 ： 柔和謙卑 有時後會想讓人知道我在這裡，要破碎自己在團隊中
體貼與憐憫的心機： 壓傷的蘆葦 學會體貼
2.他們所做的事是要叫人看見
故意叫他們看見
好事包括 禱告？ 禁食？
押沙龍暗中得了以色列人的心
3.自己不進去，也不讓人進去
我可捐款，演講，不要叫我認罪，我幹嘛要像稅吏，娼妓一樣
凡藐視我的，一個也不得看見
挑戰：
太9：5 或說：你的罪赦了，或說：你起來行走，哪一樣容易呢？ 赦罪的權柄
讓我進台大就好，認罪就不用了?
羅1:21, 他們雖然知道神，卻不當作神榮耀他，也不感謝他。他們的思念變為虛妄，無知的心就昏暗了。
把逆性當順性，把人權放第一
得分：
每天為基督講一句話。只要講第一句話，神就給第二句
Saturday, November 5, 2016
Even I am weak but I am strong for the Lord is with me
Esther 2:8-11
Many girls were bought to the citadel of Susa and put under the are of Hegai. Esther also was taken to the kings palace and entrusted to Hegai, who had charge of the harem(閨房).
Esther pleased him and won his favor. He provided her with her beauty treatments and special food...
Esther had not revealed her nationality and family background, because Mordecai had forbidden her to do so.
Why?
May be because of her beauty and personality so Hegai treated Esterh very good. But God is in charge of these matter.
Esther is Jews and who hidden her nationality for Jews were against this empire before, Jews were weak in this country, so Mordecai forbidden Esther not to reveal her family background.
In this chapter did not mention name of the Lord, but it is revealed that the Lord is living and leads the story going on.
Living in the unbelievers God is our pastor and our light, His protection is always on his people.
How?
Even I am weak but I am strong for the Lord is with me and I am son of the Lord.
Many girls were bought to the citadel of Susa and put under the are of Hegai. Esther also was taken to the kings palace and entrusted to Hegai, who had charge of the harem(閨房).
Esther pleased him and won his favor. He provided her with her beauty treatments and special food...
Esther had not revealed her nationality and family background, because Mordecai had forbidden her to do so.
Why?
May be because of her beauty and personality so Hegai treated Esterh very good. But God is in charge of these matter.
Esther is Jews and who hidden her nationality for Jews were against this empire before, Jews were weak in this country, so Mordecai forbidden Esther not to reveal her family background.
In this chapter did not mention name of the Lord, but it is revealed that the Lord is living and leads the story going on.
Living in the unbelievers God is our pastor and our light, His protection is always on his people.
How?
Even I am weak but I am strong for the Lord is with me and I am son of the Lord.
Friday, November 4, 2016
God has arranged the stage for my life
Esther 2:1-7
King Xerxes had subsided, he remembered Vashti and what she had done and what he had decreed about her. But king's eunuch proposed "Let a search be made for beautiful young virgins for the king." This advice appealed to the king and he followed it.
Esther was lovely in form and features and Moddecai had taken her as his own daughter when her father and mother died.
The years of the disastrous Greek war - the battles of Thermopylae and Salamis - intervene between chapter 1 and 2.
Why?
Bible described the background of Esther for God had arranged this story for her role to Jews.
What I will be born and what I will be God has his plans to me, so I do not fear and do not worry my way in front. Only follow the way of the Lord, obey God's word and honor God's holy name.
How?
God has arranged the stage of our life in the proper time and place.
King Xerxes had subsided, he remembered Vashti and what she had done and what he had decreed about her. But king's eunuch proposed "Let a search be made for beautiful young virgins for the king." This advice appealed to the king and he followed it.
Esther was lovely in form and features and Moddecai had taken her as his own daughter when her father and mother died.
The years of the disastrous Greek war - the battles of Thermopylae and Salamis - intervene between chapter 1 and 2.
Why?
Bible described the background of Esther for God had arranged this story for her role to Jews.
What I will be born and what I will be God has his plans to me, so I do not fear and do not worry my way in front. Only follow the way of the Lord, obey God's word and honor God's holy name.
How?
God has arranged the stage of our life in the proper time and place.
Thursday, November 3, 2016
Power comes from love and truth
Esther 1:16-22
The Memucan replied in the presence of the king and the nobles. "... There will be no end of disrespect and discord.' He suggested let him issue a royal decree and let it be written in the laws of Persia and Media, which cannot be repealed, that Vashti is never again to enter the presence of King Xerxes. Also let the king give her royal position to someone else who is better than she."
On the advice of his astrologers the king deposes her, Vashti.
He sent letters: Darius had set up an excellent fast-courier postal service which operated throughout the empire.
Why?
King Xerxes was angry to the Vashti refused come, so he agreed Memucan suggestion deposed her royal position. King is more care about his name and authority.
Xerxes is the king of Persia and Media, but he is the husband of Vashti also, Xerxes had dual idendity, but he focused on his king position and disregard his obligation to his wife, at least ask what is going on.
The positions on the world are given by men, and it is easy be changed anytime by any reason. Only the position of Christian is given by the Lord forever if we are obey his commands.
How?
The power and the honor on the world is virtual, it could be disappeared quickly, the power comes from love and truth.
The Memucan replied in the presence of the king and the nobles. "... There will be no end of disrespect and discord.' He suggested let him issue a royal decree and let it be written in the laws of Persia and Media, which cannot be repealed, that Vashti is never again to enter the presence of King Xerxes. Also let the king give her royal position to someone else who is better than she."
On the advice of his astrologers the king deposes her, Vashti.
He sent letters: Darius had set up an excellent fast-courier postal service which operated throughout the empire.
Why?
King Xerxes was angry to the Vashti refused come, so he agreed Memucan suggestion deposed her royal position. King is more care about his name and authority.
Xerxes is the king of Persia and Media, but he is the husband of Vashti also, Xerxes had dual idendity, but he focused on his king position and disregard his obligation to his wife, at least ask what is going on.
The positions on the world are given by men, and it is easy be changed anytime by any reason. Only the position of Christian is given by the Lord forever if we are obey his commands.
How?
The power and the honor on the world is virtual, it could be disappeared quickly, the power comes from love and truth.
Wednesday, November 2, 2016
Boast the cross only
Esther 1:9-15
King Xerxes asked eunuchs bring before him Queen Vashti, wearing her royal crown, in order to display her beauty to the people and nobles, for she was lovely to look at. But Queen Vashti refused to come. Then the king became furious and burned with anger.
In 483 he gives t huge feast, the climax to a sin-month display of his wealth and power. But his queen (we are not told why) refuses to play along with his wish to make her part of the exhibition.
Why?
King Xerxes became furious for Queen Vashti refused come, he felt shame before nobles and his guests.
King Xerxes like to show his honor and what he has. It is a proud man like to be praised.
Most people like to boast some nonsense matter to the world. It looks great but there are not meaning at all.
How?
Boast the cross only and be humble before the Lord. Give glory to the Lord.
King Xerxes asked eunuchs bring before him Queen Vashti, wearing her royal crown, in order to display her beauty to the people and nobles, for she was lovely to look at. But Queen Vashti refused to come. Then the king became furious and burned with anger.
In 483 he gives t huge feast, the climax to a sin-month display of his wealth and power. But his queen (we are not told why) refuses to play along with his wish to make her part of the exhibition.
Why?
King Xerxes became furious for Queen Vashti refused come, he felt shame before nobles and his guests.
King Xerxes like to show his honor and what he has. It is a proud man like to be praised.
Most people like to boast some nonsense matter to the world. It looks great but there are not meaning at all.
How?
Boast the cross only and be humble before the Lord. Give glory to the Lord.
Tuesday, November 1, 2016
Admire the joy and glory in heaven
Esther 1:1-8
The king Xerxes who ruled over 17 provinces stretching from India to Cush. For a full 180 days he displayed the vast wealth of his kingdom and the splendor ad glory of his majesty.
Esther tell the story of a plot to exterminate the entire Jewish nation in the days of the Persian king. Ahasuerus, and how it was thwarted. It also explains the origin of the Jewish Feast of Pruim.
The Persian emperor Ahasuerus reigned from 486-465 BC over an empire stretching from the Indus to northern Sudan. He was the son of Darius I, who left him vast wealth and a new luxurious palace complex at Susa. Excavation has revealed the throne room, harem and a 'paradise'
Why?
King Xerxes though he is the king over all, he has wealth and paradise in Susa. He was proud for what he has. He lives like God in his kingdom.
Do not like this world but focus on the kingdom of God in heaven.
How?
Do not lust for this world, for all of this world will be away. The precious and honor in heaven is everlasting. Admire the glory in heaven.
The king Xerxes who ruled over 17 provinces stretching from India to Cush. For a full 180 days he displayed the vast wealth of his kingdom and the splendor ad glory of his majesty.
Esther tell the story of a plot to exterminate the entire Jewish nation in the days of the Persian king. Ahasuerus, and how it was thwarted. It also explains the origin of the Jewish Feast of Pruim.
The Persian emperor Ahasuerus reigned from 486-465 BC over an empire stretching from the Indus to northern Sudan. He was the son of Darius I, who left him vast wealth and a new luxurious palace complex at Susa. Excavation has revealed the throne room, harem and a 'paradise'
Why?
King Xerxes though he is the king over all, he has wealth and paradise in Susa. He was proud for what he has. He lives like God in his kingdom.
Do not like this world but focus on the kingdom of God in heaven.
How?
Do not lust for this world, for all of this world will be away. The precious and honor in heaven is everlasting. Admire the glory in heaven.
Monday, October 31, 2016
Do what I can do to preach gospel
Acts 28:23-31
From morning till evening he explained and declared to them the kingdom of God and tried to convince them about Jesus from the Law of Moses and from the Prophets. Some were convinced by what he said, but others would not believe.
The Holy Spirit sure knew what he was talking about when he address out ancestors through Isaiah the prophet.
Therefore I want you to know that God's salvation has been sent to the Gentiles, and they will listen!
Two whole years Paul stayed there in his own rented house and welcomed all who came to see him. Boldly and without hindrance he preached the kingdom of God and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ.
What happened after this is not known. Most probably he was released, went to Spain as planned, and then back East before further imprisonment and execution in about AD 64-65.
Why?
Paul knew that Jews will reject gospel for the prophet Isaiah has said about this situation. So he boldly preach the kingdom of God and the Lord Jesus Christ.
Paul did not care the result of what he had said, keeping talking gospel.
We can not expect everyone accept Jesus as their Lord, some convinced some would not believe.
How?
Preaching gospel is our mission, but results are reply on the power and mercy of the Lord.
From morning till evening he explained and declared to them the kingdom of God and tried to convince them about Jesus from the Law of Moses and from the Prophets. Some were convinced by what he said, but others would not believe.
The Holy Spirit sure knew what he was talking about when he address out ancestors through Isaiah the prophet.
Therefore I want you to know that God's salvation has been sent to the Gentiles, and they will listen!
Two whole years Paul stayed there in his own rented house and welcomed all who came to see him. Boldly and without hindrance he preached the kingdom of God and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ.
What happened after this is not known. Most probably he was released, went to Spain as planned, and then back East before further imprisonment and execution in about AD 64-65.
Why?
Paul knew that Jews will reject gospel for the prophet Isaiah has said about this situation. So he boldly preach the kingdom of God and the Lord Jesus Christ.
Paul did not care the result of what he had said, keeping talking gospel.
We can not expect everyone accept Jesus as their Lord, some convinced some would not believe.
How?
Preaching gospel is our mission, but results are reply on the power and mercy of the Lord.
Sunday, October 30, 2016
以便以謝
以便以謝
10/30/2016 台南聖教會 高敏智牧師
撒母耳記上 7:10-13
戰爭的感覺：除了哭泣剩下是恐懼，沒有尊嚴
思想：
1. 戰爭時代的悲劇與教會的心情
感謝神的日子
戰爭的時代
沒有宣教只有戰區消息
沒有團契只有死亡消息
沒有敬拜只有眼淚歌聲
沒有團契只有分配麵包
戰區內教會
沒有教堂只有躲藏
沒有牧者只有 殉道
沒有樂團只有哀歌
沒有聚會只有哀求
2.戰爭的約櫃迷失與神心意的反思
箴言3:5-7 專心仰望耶和華一心 之前 一心 之後
大綱：
1.唯一的秘訣…心歸順耶和華，除掉外邦神
心持兩意？心懷二意？一人不能事奉兩個主
人想要有安全感
活出挑戰，
北國這些民又懼怕耶和華，又事奉他們的偶像。
2.因全歸向神…神大發雷聲，除掉來攻擊的敵人
耶和華必為你們爭戰;你們只管靜默，不要作聲
申3:21,22
我們是否願意專心事奉神
3.以便以謝記號…直到如今，耶和華都幫助我們
神知道你的態度，你是否預備好了？預備好太平盛世就來了
耶和華就為自己的地大發熱心，憐恤他的百姓。
耶和華應允他的百姓說：我必賜給你們五穀，新酒，和油
台灣不能成為同性戀城市，所有家庭要正常，有路可走。
挑戰：
珥2:23-26錫安的民哪，你們要快樂，為耶和華─你們的神歡喜；因他賜給你們合宜的秋雨，為你們降下甘霖，就是秋雨、春雨，和先前一樣。禾場必滿了麥子；酒醡與油醡必有新酒和油盈溢。我打發到你們中間的大軍隊，就是蝗蟲、蝻子、螞蚱、剪蟲，那些年所吃的，我要補還你們。你們必多吃而得飽足，就讚美為你們行奇妙事之耶和華─你們神的名。我的百姓必永遠不致羞愧。
他們不是厭棄你，乃是厭棄我，不要我作他們的王。自從我領他們出埃及到如今，他們常常離棄我，事奉別神。現在他們向你所行的，是照他們素來所行的（8:8）
10/30/2016 台南聖教會 高敏智牧師
撒母耳記上 7:10-13
戰爭的感覺：除了哭泣剩下是恐懼，沒有尊嚴
思想：
1. 戰爭時代的悲劇與教會的心情
感謝神的日子
戰爭的時代
沒有宣教只有戰區消息
沒有團契只有死亡消息
沒有敬拜只有眼淚歌聲
沒有團契只有分配麵包
戰區內教會
沒有教堂只有躲藏
沒有牧者只有 殉道
沒有樂團只有哀歌
沒有聚會只有哀求
2.戰爭的約櫃迷失與神心意的反思
箴言3:5-7 專心仰望耶和華一心 之前 一心 之後
大綱：
1.唯一的秘訣…心歸順耶和華，除掉外邦神
心持兩意？心懷二意？一人不能事奉兩個主
人想要有安全感
活出挑戰，
北國這些民又懼怕耶和華，又事奉他們的偶像。
2.因全歸向神…神大發雷聲，除掉來攻擊的敵人
耶和華必為你們爭戰;你們只管靜默，不要作聲
申3:21,22
我們是否願意專心事奉神
3.以便以謝記號…直到如今，耶和華都幫助我們
神知道你的態度，你是否預備好了？預備好太平盛世就來了
耶和華就為自己的地大發熱心，憐恤他的百姓。
耶和華應允他的百姓說：我必賜給你們五穀，新酒，和油
台灣不能成為同性戀城市，所有家庭要正常，有路可走。
挑戰：
珥2:23-26錫安的民哪，你們要快樂，為耶和華─你們的神歡喜；因他賜給你們合宜的秋雨，為你們降下甘霖，就是秋雨、春雨，和先前一樣。禾場必滿了麥子；酒醡與油醡必有新酒和油盈溢。我打發到你們中間的大軍隊，就是蝗蟲、蝻子、螞蚱、剪蟲，那些年所吃的，我要補還你們。你們必多吃而得飽足，就讚美為你們行奇妙事之耶和華─你們神的名。我的百姓必永遠不致羞愧。
他們不是厭棄你，乃是厭棄我，不要我作他們的王。自從我領他們出埃及到如今，他們常常離棄我，事奉別神。現在他們向你所行的，是照他們素來所行的（8:8）
Saturday, October 29, 2016
Focus on the target of Christian life
Acts 28:16-22
Paul was allowed to live by himself, with a solider to guard him.
Paul called together the leaders of the Jews and said to them.
It is because of the hope of Israel that I am bound with this chain.
Jews said we want to hear what your views are, for we know that people everywhere are talking against this sect.
So Paul reaches Rome at last, though hardly in the way he imagined. He is allowed his own lodgings, with a single guard. And for two years he bears witness to Jesus at the heart of the Empire, as Gd had promised.
Why?
Three days later Paul call together leaders of Jews for he want to let Jews know the Jesus Christ. Paul is focus on the mission that God gave to him.
Paul finally came to Rome without payment but through hardly way.
How?
Do not forget the mission from the Lord to witness God's glory and live out the light of the Lord to on this world.
Paul was allowed to live by himself, with a solider to guard him.
Paul called together the leaders of the Jews and said to them.
It is because of the hope of Israel that I am bound with this chain.
Jews said we want to hear what your views are, for we know that people everywhere are talking against this sect.
So Paul reaches Rome at last, though hardly in the way he imagined. He is allowed his own lodgings, with a single guard. And for two years he bears witness to Jesus at the heart of the Empire, as Gd had promised.
Why?
Three days later Paul call together leaders of Jews for he want to let Jews know the Jesus Christ. Paul is focus on the mission that God gave to him.
Paul finally came to Rome without payment but through hardly way.
How?
Do not forget the mission from the Lord to witness God's glory and live out the light of the Lord to on this world.
Friday, October 28, 2016
Christian life affect others in our society
Acts 28:11-15
Paul came to Rome, the brothers there had heard that Paul was coming, and they traveled as far as the Forum of Appius and the Three Raverns to meet Paul and his company.
At the sight of these men Paul thanked God and was encouraged.
So winter passes and the third phase of the voyage takes them safely to Puteoli, where a Christian welcome awaits.
The ship had a carved Gemini for its figurehead: "the Heavenly Twins."
In Bay of Naples they found Christian friends there and stayed with them for a week.
Why?
Luke make these record in Gentiles that shows the welcome of men and God is leading their way to Rome.
Suffering in his home town, Jerusalem and Jews, but welcomed by Gentiles. God's way is out of our expectation and mind we thought.
Jesus gave us the gospel and removed the wall in the Temple, so the activity of Christian is not limited in the Church but should go out of Church and enter the crowd to show the love of God to them.
How?
Good Christian is not in the church but live out the honor of God among our environment, the friends and unknown people. Christian life affect others in our society.
Paul came to Rome, the brothers there had heard that Paul was coming, and they traveled as far as the Forum of Appius and the Three Raverns to meet Paul and his company.
At the sight of these men Paul thanked God and was encouraged.
So winter passes and the third phase of the voyage takes them safely to Puteoli, where a Christian welcome awaits.
The ship had a carved Gemini for its figurehead: "the Heavenly Twins."
In Bay of Naples they found Christian friends there and stayed with them for a week.
Why?
Luke make these record in Gentiles that shows the welcome of men and God is leading their way to Rome.
Suffering in his home town, Jerusalem and Jews, but welcomed by Gentiles. God's way is out of our expectation and mind we thought.
Jesus gave us the gospel and removed the wall in the Temple, so the activity of Christian is not limited in the Church but should go out of Church and enter the crowd to show the love of God to them.
How?
Good Christian is not in the church but live out the honor of God among our environment, the friends and unknown people. Christian life affect others in our society.
Thursday, October 27, 2016
Kingly treat everyone around us
Acts 28:1-10
The people of Malta saw Paul suffered no ill effects, they changed their minds and said he was a god.
Paul went to see the father of the chief official of the island, after prayer, placed his hands on him and healed him. When this had happened, the rest of the sick on the island came and were cured. They honored Paul in many way and when Paul's team were ready to sail, they furnished them the supplied them needed.
Paul make an impact on the people of the island, surviving a snakebite, and healing the father of the island chief.
Why?
God let the people of Malta experienced the miracle and healing through Paul, let people know Paul is a Christian with the power from the Lord.
Pray and lay hands on the sick man with the power of the Lord to make healing.
For people of the island kindly treated those people escaped from boat broken, God give them the healing through Paul.
Kindly treat everyone around us, may be he is came from the Lord.
How?
Kindly treat everyone around us, God may do some miracles among us.
The people of Malta saw Paul suffered no ill effects, they changed their minds and said he was a god.
Paul went to see the father of the chief official of the island, after prayer, placed his hands on him and healed him. When this had happened, the rest of the sick on the island came and were cured. They honored Paul in many way and when Paul's team were ready to sail, they furnished them the supplied them needed.
Paul make an impact on the people of the island, surviving a snakebite, and healing the father of the island chief.
Why?
God let the people of Malta experienced the miracle and healing through Paul, let people know Paul is a Christian with the power from the Lord.
Pray and lay hands on the sick man with the power of the Lord to make healing.
For people of the island kindly treated those people escaped from boat broken, God give them the healing through Paul.
Kindly treat everyone around us, may be he is came from the Lord.
How?
Kindly treat everyone around us, God may do some miracles among us.
Wednesday, October 26, 2016
To be a Christian with good reputation
Acts 27:38-44
The soldiers planned to kill the prisoners to prevent any of them from swimming away and escaping. But the centurion wanted to spare Paul's life and kept the from carrying out their plan.
In this way everyone reached land in safety.
When the ship runs aground, all make it safely to shore on an island they discover to be Malta.
Why?
Paul was be respected by the centurion, for Paul's life shows the honor of the Lord and he is benefit to those around him.
Paul not only saved his own life but also saved the other prisoners, for a Christian should be like Paul has good behavior and won the reputation from the world.
How?
By the Holy Spirit I can live out the holy life to get the reputation from men around me.
The soldiers planned to kill the prisoners to prevent any of them from swimming away and escaping. But the centurion wanted to spare Paul's life and kept the from carrying out their plan.
In this way everyone reached land in safety.
When the ship runs aground, all make it safely to shore on an island they discover to be Malta.
Why?
Paul was be respected by the centurion, for Paul's life shows the honor of the Lord and he is benefit to those around him.
Paul not only saved his own life but also saved the other prisoners, for a Christian should be like Paul has good behavior and won the reputation from the world.
How?
By the Holy Spirit I can live out the holy life to get the reputation from men around me.
Tuesday, October 25, 2016
Honor God's holy name in where I am
Acts 27:25-37
Paul said 'we must run aground on some island.'
The sailors let the lifeboat down into the sea, pretending they were going to lower some anchors from the bow. Then Paul said to the centurion and the soldiers, "Unless these men stay with the ship, you cannot be save."
Paul urged them all to eat, "For the last fourteen days, you have been in constant suspense and have gone without food - you haven't eaten anything. Now I urge you to take some food. You need it to survive. Not one of you will lose a single hair from his head." After he said this, he took some bread and gave thanks to God in front of them all.
Why?
Not only the centurion and solders listened to Paul, but all 276 people listened to Paul, for Paul had warning them, but they did not listen, and it is happened. Now they lost their way, but Paul gave them the instructions and hope.
God is the leader of the ship, and God let Paul be the represent of God before these 276 men.
How can I show the power of the Lord among my family and among my colleagues and among my churches. Say the truth and have good witness and encourage those who lost hope.
How?
O Lord! please me know how to do to honor your name in where I am.
Paul said 'we must run aground on some island.'
The sailors let the lifeboat down into the sea, pretending they were going to lower some anchors from the bow. Then Paul said to the centurion and the soldiers, "Unless these men stay with the ship, you cannot be save."
Paul urged them all to eat, "For the last fourteen days, you have been in constant suspense and have gone without food - you haven't eaten anything. Now I urge you to take some food. You need it to survive. Not one of you will lose a single hair from his head." After he said this, he took some bread and gave thanks to God in front of them all.
Why?
Not only the centurion and solders listened to Paul, but all 276 people listened to Paul, for Paul had warning them, but they did not listen, and it is happened. Now they lost their way, but Paul gave them the instructions and hope.
God is the leader of the ship, and God let Paul be the represent of God before these 276 men.
How can I show the power of the Lord among my family and among my colleagues and among my churches. Say the truth and have good witness and encourage those who lost hope.
How?
O Lord! please me know how to do to honor your name in where I am.
Monday, October 24, 2016
God only is my hope and my strength
Acts 27:12-24
When neither sun nor stars appeared for may days ad the storm continued raging, we finally gave up all hope of being saved. After the men had gone a long time without food, Paul stood up before them and said; Men, you should have taken my advice not to sail from Crete. But now I urge you to keep up your courage because not one of you will be lost; only the ship will be destroyed.
Last night and angel of the God whose I am and whom I serve stood beside me and said 'Do not be afraid, Paul, You must stand trial before Caesar; and God has graciously given you the lives of all who sail with you."
They start late in the season (sailing eased for winter in mid-November) and by the time they reach Crete 'the Fast'; Atonement, September/October) is over.
As they seek a winter harbor, the favorable south wind changes to a dreaded 'north-easter'. For two weeks they run before the storm, with no means of knowing where they are: they fixed their position by sighting sun and stars).
Paul, the authority, giving hope and courage to all 276 souls aboard. God has promised them safety: Paul will appear before Caesar.
Why?
For they had not way to face this situation, they thought they will lost their life under such severer weather.
People lost their hope when they lost what they trusted, such as the sun and stars can give their position.
Only authority of the Lord beyond everything on the world. Only God can give us the hope and strength.
How?
O God! give me faith and sight like Paul, let me can face the difficulty and struggling on my way.
When neither sun nor stars appeared for may days ad the storm continued raging, we finally gave up all hope of being saved. After the men had gone a long time without food, Paul stood up before them and said; Men, you should have taken my advice not to sail from Crete. But now I urge you to keep up your courage because not one of you will be lost; only the ship will be destroyed.
Last night and angel of the God whose I am and whom I serve stood beside me and said 'Do not be afraid, Paul, You must stand trial before Caesar; and God has graciously given you the lives of all who sail with you."
They start late in the season (sailing eased for winter in mid-November) and by the time they reach Crete 'the Fast'; Atonement, September/October) is over.
As they seek a winter harbor, the favorable south wind changes to a dreaded 'north-easter'. For two weeks they run before the storm, with no means of knowing where they are: they fixed their position by sighting sun and stars).
Paul, the authority, giving hope and courage to all 276 souls aboard. God has promised them safety: Paul will appear before Caesar.
Why?
For they had not way to face this situation, they thought they will lost their life under such severer weather.
People lost their hope when they lost what they trusted, such as the sun and stars can give their position.
Only authority of the Lord beyond everything on the world. Only God can give us the hope and strength.
How?
O God! give me faith and sight like Paul, let me can face the difficulty and struggling on my way.
Saturday, October 22, 2016
Beyond our mind and experience
Acts 27:1-11
When it was decided that we would sail for Italy, Paul and some other prisoners were handed over to a centurion named Julius.
Paul warned them, but the centurion, instead of listening to what Paul said, followed the advice of the pilot and of the owner of the ship.
The voyage to Rome is made in three ships: a coaster from Caesarea to Myra, on the south coast of Turkey; a cargo vessel (carrying grain on the regular run from Alexandria in Egypt to Rome) from to Myra to Malta; and another from Malta to Puteoli in the Bay of Naples. Luke gives a super account of the eventful passage.
Why?
Because centurion believed the expert of the pilot and the ship owner instead of Paul's warning.
Even Julius kindly treated Paul, but he did not trusted in Paul's word. For the identity of Paul is a prisoner.
Even we are right but do not insist our mind and experience, but have mercy to others who do not have the vision of the truth. On the sight of the Lord to look this world and people.
Christian has good friend but does not mean the his friends may easy turn to a Christian.
How?
Let the life of Christian could be showing to my friend.
When it was decided that we would sail for Italy, Paul and some other prisoners were handed over to a centurion named Julius.
Paul warned them, but the centurion, instead of listening to what Paul said, followed the advice of the pilot and of the owner of the ship.
The voyage to Rome is made in three ships: a coaster from Caesarea to Myra, on the south coast of Turkey; a cargo vessel (carrying grain on the regular run from Alexandria in Egypt to Rome) from to Myra to Malta; and another from Malta to Puteoli in the Bay of Naples. Luke gives a super account of the eventful passage.
Why?
Because centurion believed the expert of the pilot and the ship owner instead of Paul's warning.
Even Julius kindly treated Paul, but he did not trusted in Paul's word. For the identity of Paul is a prisoner.
Even we are right but do not insist our mind and experience, but have mercy to others who do not have the vision of the truth. On the sight of the Lord to look this world and people.
Christian has good friend but does not mean the his friends may easy turn to a Christian.
How?
Let the life of Christian could be showing to my friend.
Friday, October 21, 2016
May become what I am
Acts 26:24-32
What I am saying is true and reasonable. The king is familiar with these things, and I can speak freely to him. I am convinced that none of this has escaped his notice, because it was not done in a corner.
Short time or long - I pray God that not only you but all who are listening to me today may become what I am, except for these chains.
The king rose, and with him the governor and Bernice and those sitting with them. They left the room, and they said, "this man is not doing anything that deserves death or imprisonment."
The governor and the king agree that 'this man could have been set free if he had not appealed to Caesar'
Why?
At this point he is interrupted. 'You are out of your mind.' shouts Festus. Agrippa laughs it off - he cannot afford to lose face with Festus or to offend the Jews by denying the prophets.
Paul has faith to speak freely to governor. For Paul knew what is true and Paul is sure that nothing of what he has said sounds crazy to him.
Paul can let the unbelievers turn to him, his faith and focus on the mission of the Lord is greatest than any others.
Whom I can preach gospel to and what can I do to him.
How?
Give me the faith and strength like Paul to preach gospel, no matter what the situation is. May my friends or people around me may become what I am, a Christian.
What I am saying is true and reasonable. The king is familiar with these things, and I can speak freely to him. I am convinced that none of this has escaped his notice, because it was not done in a corner.
Short time or long - I pray God that not only you but all who are listening to me today may become what I am, except for these chains.
The king rose, and with him the governor and Bernice and those sitting with them. They left the room, and they said, "this man is not doing anything that deserves death or imprisonment."
The governor and the king agree that 'this man could have been set free if he had not appealed to Caesar'
Why?
At this point he is interrupted. 'You are out of your mind.' shouts Festus. Agrippa laughs it off - he cannot afford to lose face with Festus or to offend the Jews by denying the prophets.
Paul has faith to speak freely to governor. For Paul knew what is true and Paul is sure that nothing of what he has said sounds crazy to him.
Paul can let the unbelievers turn to him, his faith and focus on the mission of the Lord is greatest than any others.
Whom I can preach gospel to and what can I do to him.
How?
Give me the faith and strength like Paul to preach gospel, no matter what the situation is. May my friends or people around me may become what I am, a Christian.
Thursday, October 20, 2016
Follow the mission of the Lord
Acts 26:13-23
Why do you persecute me? It is hard for you to kick against the goads.
Paul received the light from heaven and mission of his own people and from the gentiles, to open their eyes and turn them from darkness to light , and from the power of Satan to God. So that they may receive forgiveness of sins and a place among those who are sanctified by faith in God.
So them, King Agrippa, I was not disobedient to the vision from heaven.
The Christ would suffer and, as the first to rise from the dead, would proclaim light to his own people and to the Gentiles.
Specifically Christ 'as the first to rise from the dead.'
The story here differs in emphasis from the account in chapter 22. The 'goads' are the pressures compelling Paul to a complete change of direction in life. Verse 16-18 summarized the Lord's words on the Damascus road, what Ananias said, and the message which came to Paul in the Temple.
Why?
Paul did what he should do to preach gospel and be witness of what he received from heaven, so he was not disobedient to the vision from heaven. The vision is from the Lord above all in the world.
Paul was persecuted for the gospel, but God help Paul in his mission. Although it is hard but God helped him passed all these suffering.
How?
Even there are many difficulty to preach gospel in the world, but I know God is with me so I do not fear and follow the mission of the Lord.
Why do you persecute me? It is hard for you to kick against the goads.
Paul received the light from heaven and mission of his own people and from the gentiles, to open their eyes and turn them from darkness to light , and from the power of Satan to God. So that they may receive forgiveness of sins and a place among those who are sanctified by faith in God.
So them, King Agrippa, I was not disobedient to the vision from heaven.
The Christ would suffer and, as the first to rise from the dead, would proclaim light to his own people and to the Gentiles.
Specifically Christ 'as the first to rise from the dead.'
The story here differs in emphasis from the account in chapter 22. The 'goads' are the pressures compelling Paul to a complete change of direction in life. Verse 16-18 summarized the Lord's words on the Damascus road, what Ananias said, and the message which came to Paul in the Temple.
Why?
Paul did what he should do to preach gospel and be witness of what he received from heaven, so he was not disobedient to the vision from heaven. The vision is from the Lord above all in the world.
Paul was persecuted for the gospel, but God help Paul in his mission. Although it is hard but God helped him passed all these suffering.
How?
Even there are many difficulty to preach gospel in the world, but I know God is with me so I do not fear and follow the mission of the Lord.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)