tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-80038317196831493302024-03-13T08:07:50.717-07:00Study The WordAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08275864541227074603noreply@blogger.comBlogger6125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8003831719683149330.post-39377314992141238082018-03-02T09:27:00.000-08:002018-03-02T09:27:19.876-08:00Blurred Vision<div class="p1" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b>Blurred Vision</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b>Mark 8:23b</b></span><br />
<i><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br /></span></i> <i><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br /></span></i> <i><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br /></span></i> <i><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">"And when He had spit on his eyes and put His hands on him, </span></i></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><i>He asked him if he saw anything."</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><i><br /></i></span> <span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><i><br /></i></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">It was a journey in the darkness. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Jesus took the blind man by the hand and led him out of Bethsaida.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">So many, when they felt the touch of Jesus - or, even just heard His voice - were instantly made well. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">But, not this time.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">He was still completely blind.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">So, it was a journey in the darkness.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Eventually, every journey comes to an end.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Last week, we thought about the distance that Jesus and this blind man walked. We just don't know. All we know is that the journey started and eventually stopped. I'm still amazed at the trust of this man to go where Jesus was leading . . . All the while, still completely blind. I want to trust Him like that, don't you?</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Let's jump back into the story . . .</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">At the beginning of verse 23, Jesus leads this blind man out of Bethsaida. At the end, they stop walking. And, this is where the story gets humorous for me. I want you to picture it - there is no conversation, no warning, no explanation - Jesus just spits on this man's eyes. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Did you catch it? </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">He SPITS on his eyes!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">They don't do that at LensCrafters! I guarantee, if the next time you go to the eye doctor, you're placed in the chair, they lean you back and lean over you, then he or she begins to clear their throat . . . Well, you're out of there. You'll go to Pearle Vision, Walmart, Sam's Club, anywhere! You don't spit in people's eyes. </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">But, Jesus did. </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I don't know why. </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">But, He did.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Then Jesus asks a question . . . </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">"What do you see?"</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We must be careful not to simply quickly read past this question. It's an important question. So important that it's found (in one form or another) in verses 27 and 29. It's a question that we are all confronted with in our journey; one we all must answer. And, the response will determine so much.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This is probably a good time to share some things that I believe about God:</span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">He does things completely</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">There is a work He's doing in me (And, in you too)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">He will finish what He started</span></li>
</ul>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">In other words, He doesn't half do it! </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">He longs to do a <i>complete</i> work in our lives.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">What do you see?</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I can only imagine how the conversation went:</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">"It's <i>better,</i> Jesus. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I mean, before it was dark and now I see light.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">There's a blue sky. I see brown dirt.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I can see men, Jesus! But, they look like trees. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">And, I'm pretty sure men aren't supposed to look like trees.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">But, it is <i>better."</i></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Don't you just love his honesty in this moment? You realize he could have just exclaimed, "I can see!" and gone on with his life. Because, the truth is, what he had now was better than what he had before. Before, he was in darkness. Now, he's in light. Before, he had no sight. Now, he can see - just not clearly. His vision was <i>blurred. </i>So, he could have just said, "I can see!", but he would have died thinking men looked like trees. He would have died never seeing clearly. He would have died with <i>blurred </i>vision. Instead, the man was honest.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">May I ask you a question?</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Why would you settle for less than God's best for your life? So many of us settle for <i>better</i> when He has a <i>best</i>. Maybe I should express it like this: Why choose blurred vision when He has promised a brighter day? It doesn't make sense does it?</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">There comes a time that we all have to be honest with Him.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The blind man was, and it made all the difference.</span></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">"I see men like trees, walking." </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Because of his honesty, Jesus touches him again. And, in that touch complete restoration came! Aren't you thankful that we have a God that does things completely?!? In His touch the blurred becomes focused. He sees everything clearly. But, it came through his honesty.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">So far, in our journey with this blind man, we have seen:</span></div>
<div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We live in a <i><b>blind</b> </i>city</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Most choosed to live in a <i><b>blurred</b> </i>state</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Jesus came to offer a <i><b>brighter</b> </i>day</span></li>
</ul>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">And, if we believe that He does things completely we can see clearly now. But, it requires honesty before Him.</span></div>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">So, what do <i>you </i>see?</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">How is your vision? </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Are you living in a blurred state? </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Settling for <i>better</i> when God has a <i>best</i>?</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Will you get honest with Him today?</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Confess that wrong attitiude.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Give Him that struggle that is dragging you down.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Deal with the negativity that keeps you defeated.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Whatever it is . . . </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Get honest with Him so your vision can clear!</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<style type="text/css">
p.p1 {margin: 9.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; text-align: justify; font: 12.0px Helvetica}
p.p2 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; text-align: justify; text-indent: 18.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica}
p.p3 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; text-align: justify; text-indent: 18.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica; min-height: 14.0px}
p.p4 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px 'Times New Roman'}
span.s1 {text-decoration: underline ; color: #0433ff}
</style>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08275864541227074603noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8003831719683149330.post-87748864417386794282017-05-22T14:15:00.000-07:002017-05-22T14:31:59.031-07:00Walking in Darkness<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">"So He (Jesus) took the blind man by the hand and led him out of the town."</span></i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Mark 8:23a</span></i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Have you ever been in darkness so thick that you weren't able to see your hand in front of your face? If so, you know that's not a fun place to be. When I first started traveling, I had one of those experiences. I was in revival at a church that had formerly been a masonic lodge. I'm not exactly sure how it worked out that way . . . But, the church had converted the lodge into a place of worship. There were few windows and I was roomed in a quarters in the basement of the old lodge, new church. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">If you've ever stayed overnight or been alone in a church, you know how freaky it can be. (Don't get me wrong. I want the Holy Ghost. I just don't want to meet Him in the dark!) After service one night a storm blew in. It was fierce! So fierce that the whole area lost power. And, you can guess how that went for me. I was in the basement of an old masonic lodge, new church with no windows, no electricity, and no flashlight. It was dark. Let me reiterate: IT. WAS. DARK. This is the stuff of which horror movies are made. You can imagine all the noises that invaded my space as the hours dragged on. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Life can be like this.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Let's be completely honest:</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Life isn't easy.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">It isn't even always fun.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We can find ourselves in dark places. Many times, if we're honest, it happens because of our own choices. But, then there are other times that a storm seems to blow in and we end up powerless. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I'd like to use this week's post to encourage those who are currently in a dark place.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">You'll remember the scene from Mark 8 that we looked at last week. (If not, scroll down and read/reread "Don't Go Back to that Place!". A blind man was being brought out of a blind city. He was being led by men who were concerned about his physical eyesight. This is obvious. There is the temptation to spiritualize this moment, but these men weren't concerned about his heart. They simply wanted Jesus to meet his physical need. The news of this Miracle Worker had been spreading. Jesus had been revealing Himself to the people of Bethsaida (out of which these men were coming) and they had rejected the message of the Kingdom. So, really you could say this is an illustration of the blind leading the blind.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We looked last week at an overlooked aspect of the story: Jesus led him out of the environment of darkness that he had been dwelling in so that He could do a deeper work in his life. The exclamation point was added when Jesus commanded him, after fully sighted, to not go back to the city.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Think about this:</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Jesus took the man by the hand.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Jesus <i>led</i> him out of the town.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">If you know me, you know that I am analytical. There are many times that vague statements can drive me nuts. This is one of those statements which I wish I had a little more detail:</span><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> How far did they walk?</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> Was it a few blocks?</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> Or, maybe a mile?</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> What was the conversation?</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> Or, did they even talk at all?</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I really would love to know the answers to those questions.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Why?</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">There was no physical healing that occurred up to this point in his life.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">He was still completely blind. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">He was being led through the darkness.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Jesus had him by the hand.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">And, he simply went where Jesus was leading.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Can you see the beauty in this?</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Jesus had him by the hand.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The blind man simply went to where Jesus was leading, trusting His leadership.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Jesus was taking him to a place where He would do a deeper work.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Perhaps, I'm making too much of this. But, I can't get away from that image today.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">You're on my mind. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I've come to realize over the last few years that I really don't <i>know </i>the people to which I'm blessed to preach. I may know some on a surface level. Maybe a few on a deeper level. But, I really don't <i>know </i>you. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Maybe you find yourself in a dark place. Perhaps, you don't understand what's going on or even how it's gonna work out. Can I encourage you in this . . . Don't let go of Jesus' hand. He's leading you to a place where He is about to do a deeper work in your life. Oh, it may not turn out exactly how you think, but He will move/is moving. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Trust Him. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Hold on to His hand.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">He will never let go of you. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">He's leading you into the full light of His Kingdom!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i><br /></i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><i><br /></i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08275864541227074603noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8003831719683149330.post-8463057270400580902017-05-16T14:10:00.001-07:002017-05-16T15:08:58.488-07:00Don't Go Back To That Place<b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Mark 8:22-26</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></b>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The <i>Nature of the Kingdom (8:22-10:52)</i> section of Mark's Gospel begins with the strangest miracle that Jesus ever performed. It is, at least, the only miracle where we see Jesus touching an individual more than once to accomplish the intended outcome. And, it is filled with great truth that should impact on our lives tremendously.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">In my last post (quite some time ago), I offered a broad outline of Mark's story of Jesus. The first section, <i>The Kingdom Revealed</i>, comes to a close with Jesus confronting His inner circle with a series of questions (8:17-21):</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> Do you not yet understand?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> Is your heart still hardened?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> Having <i><b>eyes</b></i>, do you not <i><b>see</b></i>?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> Having ears, do you not hear?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">In other words: <i>They simply weren't getting it.</i></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Suddenly, we're in Bethsaida. You'll remember Bethsaida . . . This is one of the cities that Jesus pronounced woes upon in Matthew 11 and Luke 10. Your subheading may call it an <i>impenitent</i> city. In other words, they were unwilling to be sorrowful over the Godless lives they had been living. Jesus had been amongst them revealing His Father's kingdom. His message was very clear: "The Kingdom of God has come! Repent and believe." (Mark 1:15). Yet, they refused. Bethsaida was a <i><b>blind</b> </i>city. They had refused to receive the light that Jesus came to offer.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Isn't it interesting that this is the backdrop of our narrative? </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We may be tempted to believe that this is simply a story about a man's physical blindness. But, the whole Nature of the Kingdom section is backdropped with blindness. It begins with Jesus' question, moves to this physically blind man, and ends in chapter 10 with a blind man named Bartimaeus. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I'm convinced that it reveals the desire of this Kingdom:</span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The King comes to us in our state of total blindness</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">He refuses to leave us there</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">He desires to lead us into the full light of the Kingdom here and now: The Kingdom has come!</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Think about this:</span><br />
<div>
<br />
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> The King has come so we can see fully.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> We don't have to remain in our blindness.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> Here's the question: Do we really want to see?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I want us to notice something about the story we might read over. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The first thing Jesus does, when they bring the blind man to him, is to take him by the hand to lead him "out of the town" (23). Before there is any physical sight restored, Jesus takes him by the hand and leads him out of Bethsaida to a place where He will do a great work in his life.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Don't miss it . . .</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">He (Jesus) leads him </span><i style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">out of the town </i><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">(Bethsaida, the </span><i style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">blind </i><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">city) in order to do a deep work in this man's life. This was the environment of darkness he had been living in and now, Jesus wants to lead him out. Before He does anything else--even before physical sight is restored--He wants to lead him out of the darkness he'd been living in for so long.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">May I speak plainly? </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I'm captured by this scene. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">In it's simplicity, I really am. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I have come to realize that many will never experience the deeper work of Jesus in our lives. Why? Because we'd rather remain in the environment of darkness that we've lived in for so long. He comes and longs to lead us out and we just keep going back to those dark places.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">What is that He is leading you away from in order to do a deeper work?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Are you willing to leave that environment of darkness that only serves to keep you blind?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Would you trust Him enough to lead you out?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Do you really want to see?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Our story begins with Jesus leading a blind man away from a blind city. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">It ends with Jesus speaking a command to this fully sighted man:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">"Don't go back to that place!"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Will you allow Jesus to lead you from your environment of blindness?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Then, heed His command: Don't go back to that place! </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
</div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08275864541227074603noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8003831719683149330.post-58836884434098293762016-02-08T10:20:00.001-08:002016-02-08T16:20:44.636-08:00The Nature of the Kingdom<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Mark 8:22 - 10:52</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The Gospel According to Mark is often referred to as the <i>Gospel of Action. </i>That's really a great description. Mark has a story to tell and he won't waste any time in its telling. Scene after scene, with breakneck speed, he introduces us to Jesus. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Over the years I have divided Mark's gospel in different ways. However, for the purposes of our next few studies I want to offer a simple outline:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Mark 1:1 - 8:22: The Kingdom Revealed (The Jesus of Galilee)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Mark 8:22 - 10:52: The Kingdom Requirement (The Nature of the Kingdom)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Mark 11 - 16:20: The Kingdom Fulfilled (The Jesus of Jerusalem)</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">In the first section, <i>The Kingdom Revealed:</i> <i>The Jesus of Galilee</i>, we are introduced to the One who is the Source of Authority. . .</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> . . .Over mankind</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> . . .Over the realm of Truth</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> . . .Over the spiritual realm</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> . . .Over the physical realm</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> . . .Over every realm - even over sin and death!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">It's in this section that we see what the Kingdom is all about. The Kingdom of God has come near and it stands in stark contrast to the kingdom that had been established by the religious leadership of the day.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">It doesn't take long for us to see that the Jesus of Galilee is very attractive. It's evidenced by the crowds that are constantly gathering. That's what happens when lame people dance, lepers are restored, evil is driven out of lives, and bellies are filled. People flock to this Jesus. Mark has a way of revealing that the hysteria of the crowd always hinders what Jesus has come to do: To present His Father's Kingdom. Instead, they get caught up in the spectacle, the show, the miracles. In their excitement over these things they simply miss Him.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">In the last section, <i>The Kingdom Fulfilled: The Jesus of Jerusalem</i>, we see how this Kingdom is realized. In our earthly minds we are tempted to see palaces and thrones, but this is a Kingdom that is established on a cross. The one place Jesus should have avoided He willingly enters. This entrance is not in the spirit of conquest as the crowds would recognize or even prefer. Rather, it seems He enters with a willingness to be conquered. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The Jesus of Jerusalem is not very attractive. Yet, it's through this that the Kingdom is fulfilled! The cross does not puncture the hopes of mankind. . . It opens the door to the Kingdom and invites every man to walk through and take their place in this Kingdom!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">So, how does Mark transition from the Jesus of Galilee to the Jesus of Jerusalem? </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">How is it possible to be part of this movement, this Kingdom? </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The evangelist transitions us with a section that could possibly be described as the heart of the story, <i>The Kingdom Requirement: The Nature of the Kingdom. </i></span><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Positioned between the revelation of the Kingdom and it's realization, sandwiched by stories of blindness, the nature of this Kingdom is revealed.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">It's an exciting journey that I want to invite you to walk with me. It will begin and end with movement from backdrops of blindness to sight.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I want to see fully.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Will you join me?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span><br />
<b> </b>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08275864541227074603noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8003831719683149330.post-60475150439026803232014-08-22T12:47:00.001-07:002014-08-25T22:23:23.111-07:00<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>The Accusation</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>"Then Satan answered the LORD, and said, Doth Job fear God for nought?"</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Job 1:9</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
God brought <i>him</i> up.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
He <i>asked </i>the question.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
In that question He reveals the confidence He has in one man: A man named Job.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Job was no ordinary man. Well, he <i>was ordinary</i> in many ways:</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
He had normal feelings.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
He dealt with the same emotions as anyone else.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
He experienced the same longings, felt the same joy, was familiar with pain.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Yet, Job was no ordinary man. You see, he had been <i>extraordinarily </i>blessed:</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
He was the father of seven sons and three daughters.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Seven thousand sheep pastured his fields while three thousand camels roamed his hillside.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
He was the owner of five hundred yoke of oxen. . .</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
. . . five hundred female donkeys. . .</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
. . . had a very large household. . .</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
The list could go on and on.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>Extraordinarily</i> blessed.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Job was the Donald Trump or, perhaps, the Bill Gates of his time. He had wealth beyond measure. Certainly he was a man of means. So much so that Scripture says that Job was the <i style="font-weight: bold;">greatest of all the people of the East.</i> Pretty impressive. No ordinary man.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
And, God brought <i>him</i> up.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
He <i>asked</i> the question:</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
"Have you [Satan] considered my servant Job?"</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Not only does He ask the question but in the asking He reveals the <i>character of Job</i> that results in the <i>confidence He</i> <i>feels </i>toward this man. Listen to the descriptors that <i>He</i> uses to describe Job:</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Blameless and upright. . .</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
One who fears God. . .</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
[One who] shuns evil. . .</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
There's <i>none </i>like him on earth.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Did you catch that? <i style="font-weight: bold;">God said</i> there's <i>none</i> like Job. It's an incredible statement about Job's character. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
It also makes a startling reality: Every other man, every other woman was not blameless or upright. That there were no others that truly feared or served God. In fact, the whole of humanity seems to be caught up in evil. The enemy was winning, he seemed to have their hearts. But, <i>not Job.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
So, God <i>brought him </i>up.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
He <i>asked the question:</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
"Have you [Satan] considered my servant Job?"</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
And, Satan <i>had</i> considered him.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
He had been watching, waiting, wanting.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
So, <i>now he responds</i>: "Doth Job fear God for nought?"</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Did you catch it?</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Could you hear the sarcasm in his voice?</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Can't you just feel the assertions of the accuser as he presents the charge?</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Why wouldn't he serve you?</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Of course he fears you. . .</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
You've <i>blessed him beyond measure</i>.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
You've placed a hedge of protection around him and all he has.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
He's the wealthiest man in all the East. . .</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Why <i>wouldn't</i> he serve you?!? </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
BUT:</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
IF You removed Your hand of mercy. . .</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
IF he were to lose all that he had. . .</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
IF Your hedge of protection would be removed from his house. . .</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
He'd <i>curse You to Your face!</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
What an accusation!<br />
<br />
Read it again, slowly, and think about what he is saying.<br />
Listen closely to what he asserts.<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
With his crooked, bony finger pointing in the face of God he snarls his lip and speaks:</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
IF You removed Your hand of mercy. . .</div>
IF he were to lose all that he had. . .<br />
IF Your hedge of protection would be removed from his house. . .<br />
He'd <i>curse You to Your face!</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
You can almost smell the stench of sulphur as he shrieks: "You're <i>not worthy</i> of Job's love, devotion. He only loves You<i> because of what You do</i> for him!"<br />
<br />
It's a dramatic scene that should cause me to examine my life. Why do I serve Him? Because of <i>what</i> He does? Because of <i>what I get</i>? Or, because of <i>who</i> He is?<br />
<br />
Just a thought.<br />
Now, back to the story:<br />
<br />
God's on trial.<br />
He's been charged.<br />
<br />
The trial begins. . .<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08275864541227074603noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8003831719683149330.post-51408590882188081472014-08-11T11:33:00.002-07:002014-08-25T22:24:13.194-07:00<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">God On Trial</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></b>
<b><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">"Have you considered my servant Job?"</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Job 1:8</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I've never really spent much time with Job.<br />
<br />
Sure, over the years I've heard countless sermons about him and his trials:<b><i> The trials of Job</i></b>. These sermons have focused on his losses, his wife's attitude, his friends, and his responses to the entire ordeal. It's a painful story that has the ability to speak to us on deep, deep levels. But frankly, I've chosen to spend my bible study times in other places.<br />
<br />
Lately, Job has been on my mind.<br />
<br />
Not because of all the things he went through.<br />
But, rather <i><b>why</b> </i>he went through them.<br />
<br />
Have you ever noticed that it all started because of a question that God asks? Think about that for a minute. . .<br />
<br />
Satan does not have an omniscient point of view.<br />
He doesn't mention Job.<br />
God <i><b>does</b></i>.<br />
<br />
The question is pretty intriguing: "Have you <i><b>considered</b></i> my servant Job?"<br />
<br />
I think the question reveals a reality that if we're not careful we might read right past. It has changed my thinking and approach to this entire book. Too often I've focused on Satan in this story. But, I'm beginning to think I've had the wrong idea.<br />
<br />
Have <b><i>you (Satan)</i> </b>considered...<br />
<br />
Why would God ask this question?<br />
Obviously, He (God) <i style="font-weight: bold;">had considered</i> Job.<br />
<br />
This is the starting point for the entire drama that unfolds in the book which bears his name. It all begins with <i><b>God revealing His confidence in one man</b></i>. So much confidence, in fact, that He invests <i><b>His</b></i> character in the character of this man.<br />
<br />
So, as we enter into the drama that starts to unfold in Job 1, I think I need to adjust my thinking. I've always thought that Job was on trial. After all we refer to the book as the "trials" of Job. But. . .<br />
<br />
Could it be that Job isn't on trial here?<br />
God<i><b> is</b></i>.<br />
<br />
Satan has already failed at trying to ascend to the heights of God. So now, based upon a question that God Himself asks, he will try to bring God down to His level. If Job fails then obviously God didn't know him like He claimed: God wouldn't have an omniscient point of view. <br />
<br />
The challenge is presented with a question <i><b>God</b></i> asks.<br />
<br />
Intriguing it all starts here. . .<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08275864541227074603noreply@blogger.com4