What unfathomable Grace was poured out for you and for me on the cross. In the previous post, we looked at how One Son, the Son of the Living God, willingly lay aside all the comforts of home to humbly live and die in our place. He laid aside His powers, to surrender Himself fully dependent on His Father and the Holy Spirit to work through Him. Willingly, He subjected Himself to ridicule, hunger, pain, fatigue, and ultimately the cruel beatings followed by death on a roman cross.

He commended His spirit into the hands of His Father, knowing the ultimate wrath of God must be poured upon Him. That was the only way to justly forgive the sins of those who would come to accept His gift of salvation. Our sins, my sins are many. Yet, He paid the price that then it might be said. “There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ.” Romans 8:1

So, with all that, let us now look at this parable and break it down; but first we will pause to ask the Holy Spirit to guide us.

Two Sons

¹¹ Then He said: “A certain man had two sons.

Some see this parable as a story about the lost sinner who comes to repentance. Perhaps if one thinks of it as God already knowing who will come to salvation, that could be considered.  However, what about the Christian who has walked and enjoyed the fellowship of God for a time, then decides the temptations of this world look more exciting.  He does not stop being a son, he just rebels and chooses not to seek worldly pleasures for a season. 

It is pure grace that reaches out to save a sinner. But what unfathomable grace it would take to receive with open arms one who so blatantly walked away after knowing His Father’s love. He, knowing His Father, now is saying, “You are not enough!” That is like a knife cutting deep the Father’s heart.

One Son Leaves Home                                

 ¹² And the younger of them said to his father, ‘Father, give me the portion of goods that falls to me.’ So, he divided to them his livelihood. ¹³ And not many days after, the younger son gathered all together, journeyed to a far country, and there wasted his possessions with ^[d]prodigal living. ¹⁴ But when he had spent all, there arose a severe famine in that land, and he began to be in want.  ¹⁵ Then he went and joined himself to a citizen of that country, and he sent him into his fields to feed swine.  ¹⁶ And he would gladly have filled his stomach with the ^[e]pods that the swine ate, and no one gave him anything.

Note here:  the younger son might be representative of a younger Christian not fully grounded in his faith.  The brother is not mentioned here; but apparently did not try to guide his younger brother to make wiser choices.  How often as Christians do we do that to our brothers and sisters in Christ?

Furthermore is it not unfathomable grace that the Father would so quickly give his son what he asked for. There must have already been some discord known by the Father who patiently loved His Son and wanted the best for Him.

A Eager Father Awaits

¹⁷ “But when he came to himself, he said, ‘How many of my father’s hired servants have bread enough and to spare, and I perish with hunger! ¹⁸ I will arise and go to my father, and will say to him, “Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you, ¹⁹ and I am no longer worthy to be called your son. Make me like one of your hired servants.” ’

Again, would he have known there was a Father and a home had he not walked with him at some point.  Those who are not sons are often content to live with the pigs and their frivolous lifestyles.  But a Christian will never find peace or contentment apart from the Father. 

²⁰ “And he arose and came to his father. But when he was still a great way off, his father saw him and had compassion, and ran and fell on his neck and kissed him. 

Imagine this!!  The father must have been looking out the window every day, anticipating the return of his son.  God waits for us every day that we are away from Him.  He knows His plans for us are the best.  His celebration is already planned for us. Such unfathomable grace to be loved with the depth of the Father for His son.

A Broken and Contrite Heart

²¹ And the son said to him. ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and in your sight. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.’

Much like King David when he prayed as recorded in Psalm 51.  What a perfect prayer for us when we return with a broken and contrite heart to our Heavenly Father.   Look at the father’s response.

²² “But the father said to his servants, ^[f]‘Bring out the best robe and put it on him, and put a ring on his hand and sandals on his feet. ²³ And bring the fatted calf here and kill it and let us eat and be merry; ²⁴ for this my son was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’ And they began to be merry.

We too are restored by wondrous grace and forgiveness of God; because of the One Son—Jesus Christ who is always at the right hand of God making intercession for us. 

Another Son

²⁵ “Now his older son was in the field. And as he came and drew near to the house, he heard music and dancing. ²⁶ So he called one of the servants and asked what these things meant. ²⁷ And he said to him, ‘Your brother has come, and because he has received him safe and sound, your father has killed the fatted calf.’

²⁸ “But he was angry and would not go in.  Therefore, his father came out and pleaded with him. ²⁹ So he answered and said to his father, ‘Lo, these many years I have been serving you; I never transgressed your commandment at any time; and yet you never gave me a young goat, that I might make merry with my friends. ³⁰ But as soon as this son of yours came, who has devoured your livelihood with harlots, you killed the fatted calf for him.’

Do we ever as Christians do the same?  When someone else who has not been working as hard or as long for the Kingdom is suddenly blessed? And we are not?  What about those who have fallen?  Do we go after them?  Furthermore, do we truly forgive them?

One Father’s Unfathomable Grace Displayed

³¹ “And he said to him, ‘Son, you are always with me, and all that I have is yours.  ³² It was right that we should make merry and be glad. For your brother was dead and is alive again, and was lost and is found.’”

What Unfathomable grace and forgiveness this Father gives to the second son as well.  And what unfathomable Grace is that of our heavenly Father for us. Which son are you? Would you come today in repentance to the Father who loves you so? Or if you do not know Him, come to Him today. Today is the day of salvation!

DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR AND LORD?

If you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord: I urge you to go to my page titled How to Be Saved by clicking on this link. There is nothing more important than this; because He is the way, the truth and the life. Therefore, I urge you to seek Him today.

For Prayer or Comments

If you have a prayer request feel free to email me by clicking here

Furthermore, if you would like to share your story or thoughts, you can comment here

Poetry Books Available

If you enjoy poetry perhaps you would like to read more of my poetry in my newest book which can be found on Amazon

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Why are Grace and Forgiveness Really Guaranteed by One Son?

7 Elements Actually Necessary to Boldly Spread the Truth

Disclosures

©Effie Darlene Barba, 2021
Disclosure of Material Connection: I have not received any compensation for writing this post. Furthermore, I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned except for my own books. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Credits

New King James Version (NKJV)

Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

       In our study of Luke, we come to the parable of the Prodigal Son. Let us pause one moment and consider the One Son telling the story. Within this story, we see a son who rebels and goes far away into another country squandering all that he has.  Another son is full of pride or envy. He is willing to lose fellowship with his father while screaming, “unfair”.  Yet, let us not forget the one telling the story.  Jesus, the Son of God. Sacrificially He willingly left His home to go into the far country at His Father’s Command.  Knowing that there He would endure all the wrath of His Father against humanity’s sin on a cruel cross.  One Son obediently surrendered Himself to death on a cross. His blood poured out so that grace and forgiveness could be bestowed upon all who come to Him in faith. 

Surrendering His spirit into the Father’s Hand, One Son obedient even unto death, trusted fully in His Father’s love to resurrect Him into fullness of life.  And due to His absolute obedience and unconditional surrender of His own powers, He won the victory over sin and death forever for all who would believe in Him.  Because of the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, Grace and Forgiveness are really guaranteed to all who put their trust in Him.  Romans 8: begins with, “There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus”.  And it ends with, Nothing “shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”  Everything in between is the Holy Spirit’s work in transforming our hearts into the image of God’s One Son.

Grace and Forgiveness by One Son to Finish the work Begun.

Romans 8: ²⁸ And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose. ²⁹ For whom He foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the firstborn among many brethren. ³⁰ Moreover whom He predestined, these He also called. Whom He called, these He also justified. And whom He justified, these He also glorified.

Philippians 1: ⁶ being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ; …⁹ that your love may abound still more and more in knowledge and all discernment.  ¹⁰ That you may approve the things that are excellent. That you may be sincere and without offense till the day of Christ, ¹¹ being filled with the fruits of righteousness which are by Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God.

Hebrews 12: Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us. And let us run with endurance the race that is set before us. ² Looking unto Jesus, the ^[a]author and ^[b]finisher of our faith. Who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.

Why Parables?

Luke beautifully records the parables of Jesus throughout his gospel.  Perhaps as a physician, he was among the most educated. Thus he recognized the beauty, as well as the value of the parables.  It was a way to give a glimmer of light to eyes formerly closed to truth.  Some would grasp on and come to follow Christ through hearing these. Others would not.  In fact, some would only harden their hearts further.  Parables presented the truth of God in terms easy to understand. Parables spoke truth by means of day-to-day life events. People could relate to this.  Yet, without the help of the Holy Spirit to guide and a willingness to hear, their application remains lost on ears who cannot or will not hear.   Jesus Himself said when asked by the disciples why He spoke in Parables.

Matthew 13:11-17

 “Because it has been given to you to know the ^[a]mysteries of the kingdom of heaven. But to them it has not been given. ¹² For whoever has, to him more will be given, and he will have abundance. But whoever does not have, even what he has will be taken away from him. ¹³ Therefore I speak to them in parables, because seeing they do not see, and hearing they do not hear, nor do they understand. ¹⁴ And in them the prophecy of Isaiah is fulfilled, which says:

‘Hearing you will hear and shall not understand,
And seeing you will see and not perceive.
¹⁵ For the hearts of this people have grown dull.
Their ears are hard of hearing.
And their eyes they have closed.
Lest they should see with their eyes and hear with their ears,
Lest they should understand with their hearts and turn,
So that I ^[b]should heal them.’

¹⁶ But blessed are your eyes for they see, and your ears for they hear. ¹⁷ For assuredly, I say to you that many prophets and righteous men desired to see what you see, and did not see it, and to hear what you hear, and did not hear it.

Grace and Forgiveness by One Son

An antinomy is a contradiction between two beliefs or conclusions that are in themselves reasonable.  Broken down it is two laws that appear to contradict; however, both are true even when we do not understand them fully.  That is what election and choice are.  The same could be true in our understanding of how a guilty sinner can be counted fully righteous because of the sacrifice of One Son—God’s only begotten son.  Because of that we who believe are adopted into the family of God where we have full fellowship and heirship with Jesus Christ.  A privilege far beyond what we could dream of or hope for in this world.   If we know Jesus Christ as our Savior, we must have already come to know our utter inability to earn salvation by our own hands. 

Therefore, realizing the depravity of our own heart, we came to Him repentant of our sin, believing that He is our only hope of salvation.  We acknowledge that Jesus is co-creator of the world as part of the Triune God.  Believing that He bore our sins on the cross and that He was resurrected from the grave through the power of God the Father and the Holy Spirit, we accept His gift of salvation.  Therein we are given the greatest of His power, that same power that raised Jesus from the dead. 

Ephesians 1:19-20

That we might know and comprehend, “what is the exceeding greatness of His power toward us who believe. According to the working of His mighty power. ²⁰ Which He worked in Christ when He raised Him from the dead. And seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly places. ²¹ Far above all principality^[g] and ^[h]power and ^[i]might and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this age but also in that which is to come. ²² And He put all things under His feet. And gave Him to be head over all things to the church, ²³ which is His body, the fullness of Him who fills all in all.

The Parable of the Prodigal Son

So, with all that, let us now look at this parable and break it down; but first we will pause to ask the Holy Spirit to guide us. Then, we will take it up in a verse by verse fashion in the next post. For today, let me close with this question. Do you know the one son? Have you ever come to Jesus, in full repentance and faith to bow before the cross and be cleansed by His blood shed for you? If not it all begins there. Will you not come today while He is still calling?

DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR AND LORD?

If you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord: I urge you to go to my page titled How to Be Saved by clicking on this link. There is nothing more important than this; because He is the way, the truth and the life. Therefore, I urge you to seek Him today.

For Prayer or Comments

If you have a prayer request feel free to email me by clicking here

Furthermore, if you would like to share your story or thoughts, you can comment here

Poetry Books Available

If you enjoy poetry perhaps you would like to read more of my poetry in my newest book which can be found on Amazon

Previous

7 Elements Actually Necessary to Boldly Spread the Truth

Disclosures

©Effie Darlene Barba, 2021
Disclosure of Material Connection: I have not received any compensation for writing this post. Furthermore, I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned except for my own books. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Credits

New King James Version (NKJV)

Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

        In a complex world where truth is hidden and pushed aside by so many humanistic ideologies, we are called to go forth and boldly spread the truth of the gospel message.  Only in the gospel of Jesus Christ can be found the truth so desperately needed.  Every other attempt by humanity to give meaning to origin, being, morality and destiny fail.  These vain attempts to explain life apart from God lack logical consistency, experimental relativity, and empirical adequacy to guide society.  The selfish vanity and pride that drive each human heart apart from God leads to desires for power, prestige, and wealth at all costs.  It was a similar world in Jesus’ day, for the hearts of people were evil then as well.  So, He instructed His disciples in these 7 elements actually necessary to boldly spread the truth of the gospel.

        We too must learn how to continue to boldly spread the truth concerning Jesus Christ in a world that has become hostile against any message regarding the truth.  Indeed, in a world where the truth is being trampled by those who desire to cancel the truth for Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life.  Truth is said to be so precious that sometimes it is hidden by a bodyguard of lies, that is Satanic lies to draw one away from the truth.  Does Satan understand that he has lost?  Or does he still believe that he can win?  After all, he believed that through crucifying Christ, he could prevent the kingdom of Christ from being realized.  However, it is only through the cross that sin could be reconciled, and the sinner redeemed. 

Since all we who are born (apart from Jesus) are sinners, only the blood of Jesus Christ could redeem us.

 7 Elements to Boldly Spread the Truth

Jesus came to redeem us from out sins.  He lived as an example to us as we see Him continuously separating into a quiet place of prayer.  He boldly spread the truth of God’s words to the people.  Yet, He did so with dignity, strength, and grace.  Always bowing to the will of the Father, He poured out Himself for the people.  He did not worry about what the people said about Him.  Instead, He confirmed who He truly was by every action He took and every word He said.  So, when He wanted to teach the disciples these 7 elements necessary to boldly spread the truth, He did so through His actions and words.

 Element 1: Go in Pairs—everyone needs an accountability partner.

As we begin Luke 10, Jesus picks 70 disciples to go out in pairs to present the gospel message to the masses of people.  Charles Stanley once spoke of our need for an accountability partner in life.   Someone that we can trust with our very worst.  That one person who is unafraid to point out our failures; yet do it so lovingly that we listen, knowing they only want our best.  I who have been a loner for so long suddenly realized that this may be something I truly need.  Then as I pondered and prayed, I realized that God had placed me in an incredibly special small group at church.  Although I am the teacher, my group have some amazing women who are just that. 

I guess I always believed God was enough.  But in His wisdom, He knew I do needed others strong in the faith and gospel to steer me back on course at times and at other times to prevent me from straying. So, if you find yourself struggling at times, ask God to send to you an accountability partner.  One you can trust to always tell you the truth directly from God’s word.

 Element 2: Pray for Laborers!

Luke 10: 2 (NKJV)Then He said to them, “The harvest truly is great, but the laborers are few; therefore, pray the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into His harvest.”  Prayer is key, not only for us, but for others.  We must be always aware of the need to join hands with other laborers of the faith and not think this is our mission alone.  Pray for our nation and the world, keeping focus on the mission at hand.  It is so easy to get sidetracked by our own personal needs at any moment; but we must keep the Father’s mission as our primary goal. 

 Element 3: Do Not Get Sidetracked by Vain Conversations

Luke 10:3 Go your way; behold, I send you out as lambs among wolves.  ⁴ Carry neither money bag, knapsack, nor sandals; and greet no one along the road.  We must remember that the road is treacherous.  Surrounded by those who want to destroy our testimony and our mission, we must be wise as serpents and gently as doves.  Lay aside all those worldly things that tend to distract us.  Do not cling to money or possessions as precious, for your greatest most precious treasure is the gospel of Jesus Christ. So, we must boldly spread the truth of the gospel.

 At first, I thought the notation of not to greet anyone along the road as odd; however, my Liberty bible commentary points out that “greetings” were sometimes lengthy and frivolous niceties which made for vain talk when the urgency of the hour demands we reach our goal.  So beware of frivolous and vain conversations that lead to nowhere.

Element 4: Find a Central Focal Point to Work From (A Church)

Luke 10: whatever house you enter, first say, ‘Peace to this house.’ ⁶ And if a son of peace is there, your peace will rest on it; if not, it will return to you. ⁷ And remain in the same house, eating and drinking such things as they give, for the laborer is worthy of his wages.  Do not go from house to house.

We are to find a central focus point from which our ministry is to evolve around.  This can refer to the church as the main central hub from which you gain strength, fellowship, and nourishment so that you can go forth to talk to others.  If you are in the right fellowship you will feel the peace of the Holy Spirit when there.  If your soul is filled with unrest, keep your eyes and ears open to listen closely to the Spirit’s call.  Once you feel that peace, do not be ashamed to receive their gifts of kindness while you are there.  Something hard for me is to receive.  I am much better at giving than receiving gifts of kindness, though my heart may long for them at times.

 Do not just jump from place to place because to boldly spread the truth you need a place to go where you can be restored.

Element 5: Plant the Seed—But be Ready to Walk on When Rejected

Luke 10: 8Whatever city you enter, and they receive you, eat such things as are set before you. ⁹ And heal the sick there, and say to them, ‘The kingdom of God has come near to you.’ ¹⁰ But whatever city you enter, and they do not receive you, go out into its streets and say, ¹¹ ‘The very dust of your city which clings to us we wipe off against you.  Nevertheless, know this, that the kingdom of God has come near you.’ ¹² But I say to you that it will be more tolerable in that Day for Sodom than for that city.

Not everyone is going to respond.  Regardless of how you love the gospel and present its truth.  Their response is not your responsibility.  You are to present the truth as you are compelled to because of your love of the gospel and Jesus Christ.  However, the Holy Spirit is the only one who can convict the hearts of people.  Some choose to harden their own hearts and may even fling arrows at you.  So, you are told to leave.  As you leave, give them this reminder that God has called to them, His Kingdom is near to them and He loves them; but they have rejected His call.  Boldly spread the truth, then walk away. 

Element 6: Do Not Take Rejection Personal

Luke 10: ¹⁶ He who hears you hears Me, he who rejects you rejects Me, and he who rejects Me rejects Him who sent Me.”  Keep the right perspective here.  Do not take things so personally (like I do at times—preaching to myself here).  It is not you they are rejecting it is God Himself. 

Element 7: Never Lose Sight of Victory:  Satan Has Fallen

Luke 10: ¹⁷ Then the seventy returned with joy, saying, “Lord, even the demons are subject to us in Your name.” ¹⁸ And He said to them, “I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven. ¹⁹ Behold, I give you the authority to trample on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall by any means hurt you. ²⁰ Nevertheless do not rejoice in this, that the spirits are subject to you, but rather rejoice because your names are written in heaven.”

No matter how dark the road may seem at times or how bleak the immediate future may appear, remember this.  God is on His Throne.  Satan is defeated.  We have the victory and the power over Satan.  Yet a little while and Jesus will return.  All this is only a split second of time compared to eternity. 

We Are Blessed Beyond Measure: Therefore, Boldly Spread the Truth

Luke 10 ²¹ In that hour Jesus rejoiced in the Spirit and said, “I thank You, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that You have hidden these things from the wise and prudent and revealed them to babes. Even so, Father, for so it seemed good in Your sight. ²² All^[g] things have been delivered to Me by My Father, andno one knows who the Son is except the Father, and who the Father is except the Son, and the one to whom the Son wills to reveal Him.”

²³ Then He turned to His disciples and said privately, “Blessed are the eyes which see the things you see; ²⁴ for I tell you that many prophets and kings have desired to see what you see, and have not seen it, and to hear what you hear, and have not heard it.”

Whatever people may say.  No matter what names you may be called because you love the gospel of Jesus Christ.  Never forget how blessed you are that God has shown His Mercy, Grace, and love upon you.  Then, in His strength with heads and shoulders held high march for to boldly spread the truth.  Even to a world who wants to cancel truth.  Remember what God said to Isaiah as he preached to a nation not wanting to hear the truth?

Isaiah 49:2-6

He has made My mouth like a sharp sword;
In the shadow of His hand He has hidden Me,
And made Me a polished shaft;
In His quiver He has hidden Me.”

³ “And He said to me,
‘You are My servant, O Israel,
In whom I will be glorified.’
⁴ Then I said, ‘I have labored in vain,
I have spent my strength for nothing and in vain;
Yet surely my ^[b]just reward is with the Lord,
And my ^[c]work with my God.’ ”

⁵ “And now the Lord says,
Who formed Me from the womb to be His Servant,
To bring Jacob back to Him,
So that Israel is ^[d]gathered to Him
(For I shall be glorious in the eyes of the Lord,
And My God shall be My strength),
⁶ Indeed He says,
‘It is too small a thing that You should be My Servant
To raise up the tribes of Jacob,
And to restore the preserved ones of Israel;
I will also give You as a light to the Gentiles,
That You should be My salvation to the ends of the earth.’ 

So, Heavenly Father, let my mouth be like a sharp sword to boldly spread the truth of your precious son while You hold me in the shadow of Your Hand.  I am Yours, mold me as you will and use me for Your Glory.  Whatever may come, keep me focused on Your mission. Help me to do it all out of love as shown by the apostle Paul in Acts 20. Give me that kind of heart, willing to die for You, that others may know You. Always bowing to Your Will, where ever that leads me.

DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR AND LORD?

If you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord: I urge you to go to my page titled How to Be Saved by clicking on this link. There is nothing more important than this; because He is the way, the truth and the life. Therefore, I urge you to seek Him today.

For Prayer or Comments

If you have a prayer request feel free to email me by clicking here

Furthermore, if you would like to share your story or thoughts, you can comment here

Poetry Books Available

If you enjoy poetry perhaps you would like to read more of my poetry in my newest book which can be found on Amazon

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How do Your Innermost Thoughts Concerning Jesus really Matter?

How does Unbelievable Grace lead to Unparalleled love

Disclosures

©Effie Darlene Barba, 2021
Disclosure of Material Connection: I have not received any compensation for writing this post. Furthermore, I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned except for my own books. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Credits

Photo by Brett Jordan on Unsplash

New King James Version (NKJV)

Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

            The real battle for humans begins in the world of thought.  In this God created humans unique from all the rest of this earth’s creations.  We were created with the ability to reason and to think.  Therein we have the chance to choose.  Our actions begin with a thought first in our innermost being.  Temptations as well as our greatest moments of faith result from what begins as a thought.  We are what we think.  “For as he thinks in his heart, so is he.” Proverbs 23:7. Hypocrisy often comes from hearts filled with greed spilling forth with false words meant to entrap the victim.  So, it does really matter how our innermost thoughts align with reality.  And since Jesus is the way, THE TRUTH, and the life, then it does really matter what your innermost thoughts are Concerning Jesus.  

Only through learning to focus upon Him can we choose that which is right and gain victory over the temptations of this world.  We are attacked from every side; because humanity is ever pushing forward with an ideology of self-exaltation.  With love, there must be freedom to choose.  With freedom there is always the possibility and potential for evil.  Therefore, justice is required for a society to exist without self-annihilation.  Without Justice, there is chaos which leads to anarchy and ultimately a totalitarian government to reign in the chaos.

Then Where is their hope?

For freedom to be reborn and for love to survive, a transformational forgiveness is needed to overcome evil.  There is only once place where love, justice, evil, and forgiveness meet—that is the cross of Jesus Christ.  Only the Grace of God, the creator of this universe, can transform hearts.  Jesus Christ is the only way of salvation for humanity.  He died to pay the penalty for our sin so the demands of justice.  Only He can take our broken, selfish hearts, transforming them into ones that choose righteousness.  Therein we find hope, joy, and peace instead of chaos. 

Meanwhile, He cloaks us in His righteousness until that day we stand with these broken vessels fully redeemed into His glorious image.   Therefore, our innermost thoughts concerning Jesus really do matter if we are to find our way in this world and truly find meaning for life.

Some say the greatest fear of humanity is not finding being-as displayed in Being and nothingness.  Yet, only in Jesus do we have being.    

Acts 17: 24-31

²⁴ God, who made the world and everything in it, since He is Lord of heaven and earth, does not dwell in temples made with hands. ²⁵ Nor is He worshiped with men’s hands, as though He needed anything, since He gives to all life, breath, and all things. ²⁶ And He has made from one ^[j]blood every nation of men to dwell on all the face of the earth, and has determined their preappointed times and the boundaries of their dwellings. ²⁷ So that they should seek the Lord, in the hope that they might grope for Him and find Him, though He is not far from each one of us. 

²⁸ for in Him we live and move and have our being. As also some of your own poets have said, ‘For we are also His offspring.’ ²⁹ Therefore, since we are the offspring of God, we ought not to think that the Divine Nature is like gold or silver or stone, something shaped by art and man’s devising. ³⁰ Truly, these times of ignorance God overlooked, but now commands all men everywhere to repent, ³¹ because He has appointed a day on which He will judge the world in righteousness by the Man whom He has ordained. He has given assurance of this to all by raising Him from the dead.”

 Evil wins when men and women’s thoughts turn away from God toward anything else.  Therefore, it is of ultimate importance to establish what are your innermost thoughts concerning Jesus Christ. 

Concerning Jesus

¹⁸ And it happened, as He was alone praying, that His disciples joined Him, and He asked them, saying, “Who do the crowds say that I am?” ¹⁹ So they answered and said, “John the Baptist, but some say Elijah; and others say that one of the old prophets has risen again.” ²⁰ He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” Peter answered and said, “The Christ of God.”

Note first, Jesus as we often found Him in His Human body, was alone praying.  God the Father and the Holy Spirit were His focus for strength, joy, hope, wisdom and power.  They supplied all He needed.  That communion was vital to His being able to live fully human, face all the temptations of this world while remaining the fully righteous son of God-Himself co-creator of the world.  In a sense, He chose to lay aside His superpowers and rely fully on theirs. 

Second recognize that Peter answered correctly, when asked who Jesus really is.  He is the great I am, the Messiah.  Jesus replied as we note in Matthew 16:

¹⁷ Jesus answered and said to him, “Blessed are you, Simon Bar-Jonah, for flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but My Father who is in heaven.

That thought which then was expressed began with the Holy Spirit’s revelation to Peter. Again, the innermost thoughts concerning Jesus really do matter.  Only when we recognize who He is can we understand fully the truth of our destiny and our being in Him.

The Revelation of what is to come.

Luke 9 ²¹ And He strictly warned and commanded them to tell this to no one, ²² saying, “The Son of Man must suffer many things, and be rejected by the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and be raised the third day.”

There it is the gospel message in a nutshell.  Christ, the Messiah, God’s only begotten son would die a cruel death on the cross to pay the price for all sin.  At the cross all the evil of all humanity is poured out upon Him.  But do not fear, He told them because He will be victorious. Therein lies our hope of salvation.  All who believe in Him, will also be declared victorious.  We will have our being established in Him for all of eternity.  Declared righteous, we are endowed with all the powers needed to be victorious over sin; yet our innermost thoughts need to be corralled to keep our focus on Him who is our victory.

Take Up Your Cross and Follow Me

²³ Then He said to them all, “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross ^[b]daily, and follow Me. ²⁴ For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will save it. ²⁵ For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and is himself destroyed or lost? ²⁶ For whoever is ashamed of Me and My words, of him the Son of Man will be ashamed when He comes in His own glory, and in His Father’s, and of the holy angels. ²⁷ But I tell you truly, there are some standing here who shall not taste death till they see the kingdom of God.”   Luke 9

We are to take up our cross, whatever that might be.  Not something we so willingly desire to do, unless we fully understand the truth and where that cross leads us—to Him who is our greatest treasure, joy, hope and peace.  He tells them of His destiny to die on the cross; but we realize they did not fully understand this.  Note that He tells them some will see at least a glimpse of the kingdom of God.    We too see a glimpse of His Glory with each day if we truly look.  Glimpses of His Mercy and Grace which can transform our innermost thoughts.  But alas, too quickly we allow our thoughts to be drawn aside by this world.  Much like Peter.  Remember even after all this, he denied Christ when all this began to be played out soon after. 

Oh, but that is another story.  Let us look at what happens next!

Concerning Jesus-a Glimpse of the Kingdom

Luke 9:  ²⁸ Now it came to pass, about eight days after these sayings, that He took Peter, John, and James and went up on the mountain to pray. ²⁹ As He prayed, the appearance of His face was altered, and His robe became white and glistening. ³⁰ And behold, two men talked with Him, who were Moses and Elijah, ³¹ who appeared in glory and spoke of His ^[c]decease which He was about to accomplish at Jerusalem. 

³² But Peter and those with him were heavy with sleep; and when they were fully awake, they saw His glory and the two men who stood with Him. ³³ Then it happened, as they were parting from Him, that Peter said to Jesus, “Master, it is good for us to be here; and let us make three ^[d]tabernacles: one for You, one for Moses, and one for Elijah”—not knowing what he said.

³⁴ While he was saying this, a cloud came and overshadowed them; and they were fearful as they entered the cloud. ³⁵ And a voice came out of the cloud, saying, “This is ^[e]My beloved Son. Hear Him!” ³⁶ When the voice had ceased, Jesus was found alone. But they kept quiet and told no one in those days any of the things they had seen.

Innermost Thoughts Concerning Christ

Remember 8 days prior, Peter declared that Jesus was ““The Christ of God.”  Now he wants to build altars to Elijah, Moses, and Jesus.  Had Peter forgotten that Jesus was not another prophet, but the Messiah.  Only He was worthy of worship, not Elijah or Moses.  God quickly spoke and cleared up the confusion.  ““This is ^[e]My beloved Son. Hear Him!” and Him only!” ³⁶ When the voice had ceased, Jesus was found alone. 

Note also, the conversation of Jesus, Moses and Elijah was about the coming crucifixion of Jesus Christ.  Again, despite all this, when Peter failed to conform his innermost thoughts to all that Jesus Christ had revealed, Peter denied Christ. At the trial when the chaos of his own thoughts blocked his mind from what had already been revealed, his thoughts led to his actions.  How often do we do the same? 

We are to be the salt and the light to the world. Therefore, we must beware of our innermost thoughts concerning Christ, every moment of every day. 

Guard Your Innermost Thoughts

In our present world, the secular humanists’ manifestos have overtaken most of our society and our educational system.  From the evolutionary theory to the cancel culture, we have watched the evolution of this worldview. This ideology leads only to destruction while proclaiming their moral standards higher than God, for they in truth deny Him.  Their final view of reality is that of impersonal materialism.  We see the end results, abortion, genocide, cancel culture, and racial divide. These false ideas presented through the trojan horses of media and politicians. Destroying America’s freedom, while bowing to their humanistic idols of self-righteousness they march on.  Yet, we must recognize the penetration of these evils into our own innermost thoughts concerning Christ. 

How quickly has our society negatively impacted our desire to stand firm proclaiming the truth of the gospel.  How quickly do we cower to their criticisms of us, becoming silent and allowing their false narrative to intimidate us!  So, what are we to do?

Hold fast to our Innermost Thoughts concerning Christ.

³ For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh. ⁴ For the weapons of our warfare are not ^[a]carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, ⁵ casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God. Bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ.  ⁶ And being ready to punish all disobedience when your obedience is fulfilled. (2 Corinthians 10)

2 Timothy 2: ¹⁴ Remind them of these things, charging them before the Lord not to ^[a]strive about words to no profit, to the ruin of the hearers. ¹⁵ Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.  ¹⁶ But shun profane and ^[b]idle babblings, for they will ^[c]increase to more ungodliness.

1 Peter 1:¹³ Therefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and rest your hope fully upon the grace that is to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ. ¹⁴ As obedient children, not conforming yourselves to the former lusts, as in your ignorance. ¹⁵ But as He who called you is holy. You also be holy in all your conduct. ¹⁶ Because it is written, “Be holy, for I am holy.”

How?

Philippians 4 ⁴ Rejoice in the Lord always.  Again I will say, rejoice! ⁵ Let your ^[b]gentleness be known to all men. The Lord is at hand.⁶ Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God;. ⁷ And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

⁸ Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report. If there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things. ⁹ The things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do. And the God of peace will be with you.

Keep Your Innermost Thoughts focused on what is Concerning Jesus!

I Peter 1:

³ Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His abundant mercy has begotten us again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, ⁴ to an inheritance ^[b]incorruptible and undefiled and that does not fade away, reserved in heaven for you, ⁵ who are kept by the power of God through faith for salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.

⁶ In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if need be, you have been ^[c]grieved by various trials. ⁷ That the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ, ⁸ whom having not ^[d]seen you love. Though now you do not see Him, yet believing, you rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory, ⁹ receiving the end of your faith—the salvation of your souls.

DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR AND LORD?

If you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord: I urge you to go to my page titled How to Be Saved by clicking on this link. There is nothing more important than this; because He is the way, the truth and the life. Therefore, I urge you to seek Him today.

For Prayer or Comments

If you have a prayer request feel free to email me by clicking here

Furthermore, if you would like to share your story or thoughts, you can comment here

Poetry Books Available

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How does Unbelievable Grace lead to Unparalleled love

Disclosures

©Effie Darlene Barba, 2021
Disclosure of Material Connection: I have not received any compensation for writing this post. Furthermore, I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned except for my own books. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Credits

New King James Version (NKJV)

Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

What if someone knows you, everything there is to know about you and yet loved you with such grace and forgiveness? Would that unbelievable Grace lead to Unparalleled Love? Let’s go one step further. What if your actions at times have brought disgrace and sorrow to the one who loves you so. Yet, they forgive you, every infraction. Would that cause you to love them even more? Particularly if they never compromise on the truth. With a gentleness and grace they saw all of your flaws, imperfections, and failures; yet, they with patience and kindness guide you to become the gentleman or lady they see you as being filled with beauty and grace overflowing. The one you never in your wildest dreams knew you could become. A prince or princess with wisdom and a radiance never before seen.

Well that is the love God has for you. Precisely that is what Jesus offers you. Would just one touch of His grace not transform your heart to love Him with an unparalleled love?

Unparalleled Love of One Woman

³⁶ Now one of the Pharisees asked Jesus to have dinner with him, so he went into the Pharisee’s house and took his place at the table ³⁷ Then when a woman of that town, who was a sinner, learned that Jesus was dining at the Pharisee’s house, she brought an alabaster jar of perfumed oil.

The woman from the town was known to be a sinner, most likely a prostitute.  Normally she would not have been allowed to be in the home of this Pharisee.  However, Jesus was invited in and a crowd surrounded and followed Him wherever He went.  A crowd could come inside and be present in that day when someone famous came to visit.  The woman had met Jesus somewhere before this night and been redeemed, having repented of her sins. 

We are not told exactly where or when this had occurred; but the word Jesus used later in this story when saying her sins had been forgiven was that: already had been and continue to be.  So, when she heard Jesus was there, she loved Him so.  All she wanted was to draw near enough to anoint His head with her most precious possession, the oil in her alabaster box.  Imagine the depth of her love that made her bold enough to even enter the room.  They were reclined at the table like this picture. 

Uncontrollable, Unashamed, Abounding Devotional Unparalleled Love

  ³⁸ As she stood behind him at his feet, weeping, she began to wet his feet with her tears. She wiped them with her hair kissed them and anointed them with the perfumed oil.

Imagine the emotion running through her.  He, who had transformed her life lay there on the floor before her.  She could not hold back the tears of gratitude or joy any longer.  And as her tears began to fall upon His feet, she saw that no one had washed His feet (as was the custom for a guest of honor).   She saw the dust and dirt on His feet and with an act of compassion,  got down on the floor next to His feet.  Her tears began to pour from her eyes uncontrollably.  With no towel in sight, she let her hair down to use her hair as a towel.  Women were not to let their hair down in public or have it uncovered; but her love for Jesus demanded she dry His feet.  Lovingly, once washed, she poured the oil on His feet.   

Did she worry what the others would think?  No!

 ³⁹ Now when the Pharisee who had invited him saw this he said to himself, “If this man were a prophet,he would know who and what kind of womanthis is who is touching him, that she is a sinner.” ⁴⁰ SoJesus answered him,“Simon, I have something to say to you.” He replied,“Say it, Teacher.”

Simon thought in his head; but Jesus knew what he was thinking.  He thought Jesus wasn’t a prophet; because surely, He had not known what kind of woman was touching Him.  Note: Simon did not even consider that Jesus would have elicited such a contact—at least His character was not in question.  People did at least seem to understand this. But the pharisee did question His deity or special prophetic knowledge. 

A Parable

Jesus said,

⁴¹ “A certain creditorhad two debtors; one owed him 500 silver coins,and the other fifty. ⁴² When they could not pay, he canceled the debts of both. Now which of them will love him more?” ⁴³ Simon answered, “I suppose the one who had the bigger debt canceled.”Jesus said to him, “You have judged rightly.”

Not certain if Simon’s “I suppose was” with a questioning or sarcastic voice.  Either way, he was wary of the question.  But the truth is:  the one who recognizes their unworthiness or sees the depths of their sins, is the one who is grateful enough to lay aside their own self to honor the one they love. That is unparalleled love. Simon did not even recognize his sins or unworthiness.  In fact, his arrogance was such as to not even provide a servant to wash the feet of Jesus.  He thought himself morally superior just by having invited Jesus to the table. 

Why was hers an Unparalleled Love?

 ⁴⁴ Then, turning toward the woman, he said to Simon, “Do you see this woman? I entered your house. You gave me no water for my feet, but she has wet my feet with her tears and wiped them with her hair. ⁴⁵ You gave me no kiss of greeting, but from the time I entered she has not stopped kissing my feet. ⁴⁶ You did not anoint my head with oil, but she has anointed my feet with perfumed oil. ⁴⁷ Therefore I tell you, her sins, which were many, are forgiven, thus she loved much; but the one who is forgiven little loves little.”

⁴⁸ Then Jesus said to her, “Your sins are forgiven.” ⁴⁹ But those who were at the table with him began to say among themselves, “Who is this, who even forgives sins?” ⁵⁰ He said to the woman, “Your faith has saved you; go in peace.”

Saved by faith; but what about those moments when we doubt?

Concluding Thought

What wondrous Grace! The longer that I am saved, the more I recognize the magnitude of His Grace toward me. Daily, I see how far from His righteousness I stand and how imperfect is my love toward Him and others. Yet, He loved me and He promises to perfect my heart one day. How could I give to Him less than my all.

DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR AND LORD?

If you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord: I urge you to go to my page titled How to Be Saved by clicking on this link. There is nothing more important than this; because He is the way, the truth and the life. Therefore, I urge you to seek Him today.

For Prayer or Comments

If you have a prayer request feel free to email me by clicking here

Furthermore, if you would like to share your story or thoughts, you can comment here

Poetry Books Available

If you enjoy poetry perhaps you would like to read more of my poetry in my newest book which can be found on Amazon

Previous

Why was the Faith of the Centurion Really Amazing?

Because Of The Lies, The Truth Has Been Blurred

Disclosures

©Effie Darlene Barba, 2021
Disclosure of Material Connection: I have not received any compensation for writing this post. Furthermore, I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned except for my own books. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.