Moment With The Master ‹ San Marcos church of Christ

Christ, the Healer

Tuesday, December 30, 2014

"When Jesus heard that, He said to them, “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. But go and learn what this means: ‘I desire mercy and not sacrifice.’ For I did not come to call the righteous, but sinners, to repentance.” (Matthew 9:12-13)

The context of these words were prompted when Jesus passed by the office of Matthew, a tax collector. The occupation of Matthew represented a form of oppression to the Jews. However, Jesus realizing the value of one soul, and potential of an honest heart called Matthew to follow him.

Thus, we find our Lord feasting at Matthew’s house, with several of Matthew’s companions- all of them scoundrels. Jesus did eat and drink with those of notoriously bad character. This conduct of our Lord was scandalous to the religious people of the day. Would one who follows Jesus’ example receive a similar reaction by the religious elite of our times?

The Pharisees were offended even though curiously drawn to Jesus. They were often galled by his “bad conduct”. Though he was a great teacher, he still had broken many of their sacred traditions. Thus, they complained about Jesus and his disciples.

The first of two lessons are taught by Jesus in verse 12. The Lord compared himself to a healing physician. The disease is sin. Like any good doctor, the Lord sought to bring a cure. He does not associate with such religious misfits for the carnal pleasure, but for the purpose of healing. The Pharisees, who deemed themselves righteous, saw no need for a cure.

Then in verse 13 he adds these words: But go and learn what this means: ‘I desire mercy and not sacrifice.” “Mercy” is an expression of God's willingness to appease his wrath upon the sinner. The Lord instructs the Pharisees emulate his character. God does not except our formal observances when mercy is excluded. Because God has so pitied us, we should also pity others who also need the help of this great healer.

By inviting the Lord to his house Matthew went from despised and hated to the friend of the greatest of all companions -the Savior of the world. If Jesus passed by today would you invite him to your house? Are you willing to obey the call of Christ and be healed?

By George Slover

By George Slover | Visit www.smcofc.org or www.ibiblestudy.net

view email in browser | Unsubscribe sanmarcoschurchofchrist@gmail.com | Update your profile | Forward to a friend

Posted in Moment With The Master

Christ, the Healer

Tuesday, December 23, 2014

"When Jesus heard that, He said to them, “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. But go and learn what this means: ‘I desire mercy and not sacrifice.’ For I did not come to call the righteous, but sinners, to repentance.” (Matthew 9:12-13)

The context of these words were prompted when Jesus passed by the office of Matthew, a tax collector. The occupation of Matthew represented a form of oppression to the Jews. However, Jesus realizing the value of one soul, and potential of an honest heart called Matthew to follow him.

Thus, we find our Lord feasting at Matthew’s house, with several of Matthew’s companions- all of them scoundrels. Jesus did eat and drink with those of notoriously bad character. This conduct of our Lord was scandalous to the religious people of the day. Would one who follows Jesus’ example receive a similar reaction by the religious elite of our times?

The Pharisees were offended even though curiously drawn to Jesus. They were often galled by his “bad conduct”. Though he was a great teacher, he still had broken many of their sacred traditions. Thus, they complained about Jesus and his disciples.

The first of two lessons are taught by Jesus in verse 12. The Lord compared himself to a healing physician. The disease is sin. Like any good doctor, the Lord sought to bring a cure. He does not associate with such religious misfits for the carnal pleasure, but for the purpose of healing. The Pharisees, who deemed themselves righteous, saw no need for a cure.

Then in verse 13 he adds these words: But go and learn what this means: ‘I desire mercy and not sacrifice.” “Mercy” is an expression of God's willingness to appease his wrath upon the sinner. The Lord instructs the Pharisees emulate his character. God does not except our formal observances when mercy is excluded. Because God has so pitied us, we should also pity others who also need the help of this great healer.

By inviting the Lord to his house Matthew went from despised and hated to the friend of the greatest of all companions -the Savior of the world. If Jesus passed by today would you invite him to your house? Are you willing to obey the call of Christ and be healed?

By George Slover

Posted in Moment With The Master

Bless, Magnify, Exalt

Tuesday, December 16, 2014

"I will bless the LORD at all times; his praise shall continually be in my mouth. My soul makes its boast in the LORD; let the humble hear and be glad. Oh, magnify the LORD with me,and let us exalt his name together!" (Psalms 34:1-3)

Times of stress can be used to remind God’s disciples of who God is and how much he means to them. When one weighs the blessings that come from God, the trials become light in comparison. Sorrowful prayer turns to thanksgiving and praise.

David, the sweet Psalmist, calls us to express our feelings about God. To “bless” means to salute, or bend the knee. To “boast” is to shout or shine or celebrate. To “magnify” means to promote or to make great. Such thoughts not only spring from duty, but privilege. Our sense of God's goodness should never die.

We are called to continual praise of God. Praise and adoration springs from one’s contemplation of God. When gazing at his creation we will surely marvel at his infinite power. Each day his providence reminds us of his wisdom. An anticipation of heaven should cause us to ponder God’s grace. We are surrounded by reasons to praise.

Apparently David has experienced various afflictions. He acknowledges his fears (vs.4). There are times when the righteous are brokenhearted and crushed (vs.18). They face numerous afflictions (vs. 19). Through it all He exalts the goodness of God (vs.8). David is determined to make his boast in God's goodness and grace.

Such worship of God is the noblest of man's activities. Such praise hallows our enjoyment of him. It can turn the night to day, and lift our hearts toward heaven.

In your busy day do not forget the mercies of God. Let your heart be filled with gratefulness. Do not allow your worship to be just an impulse, but resolve that you will praise him at all times.

By George Slover

Posted in Moment With The Master

The Light Has Dawned

Tuesday, December 09, 2014

"The people who sat in darkness have seen a great light, and upon those who sat in the region and shadow of death Light has dawned.” (Matthew 4:16)

In these verses Matthew records the beginning of Jesus’ earthly ministry. Matthew specifically notes that the Lord was fulfilling prophecy Isaiah had spoken of 750 years before.

This prophecy specifically details geographically the place where this ministry was to begin. (vs.15) The immediate reference is to the inhabitants of Northern Palestine. Isaiah tells us these people sit in a spiritual stupor, content with their deplorable spiritual condition.

The darkness is a picture of spiritual ignorance and superstition. It represents the dismal moral condition of most of the world. It is a symbol of the kingdom and power of Satan. (Acts 26:18) This miserable state is pictured as the region and shadow of death.

To dispel this darkness the light has dawned. He is the Messiah that has been spoken of and sought after for centuries. Many would welcome him. However, others would reject him because he did not fit their theology.

The light of Christ provides correct information concerning our life on earth. The light of Christ offers peace and joy and hope. Christ is able to perfect us in holiness and point us toward an eternal home.

There is no limit to the penetrating power of light. The light of Christ is able to reach the darkest places of man. Christ can touch the hearts of men and women of every nation and social status. He is to be heralded in the prisons, homes, churches, and streets of the world!

Posted in Moment With The Master

God's Great Leader

Tuesday, December 02, 2014

But since then there has not arisen in Israel a prophet like Moses, whom the LORD knew face to face, (Deuteronomy 34:10)

In this closing chapter we have the account of the death and burial of Moses. His pilgrimage to the top of Mount Nebo is somewhat symbolic of the life of every individual. We are all on a journey toward our final day. Just what will be observed about our life? What story will it tell?

The legacy of Moses is noted with greatness. These closing verses speak distinctively of his character and Moses’ unique position as a prophet. Numerous times in Scripture the work of Moses is compared to the work of Christ.

Moses’ legacy is first marked by his peculiar intimacy with God. Moses was one of few who enjoyed the unique privilege of seeing God face-to-face. There is a sense in which every individual has the opportunity of knowing God. Through Christ we are invited to this marvelous friendship.

Such communion with God should produce greatness of character. If the influence of a godly friend can motivate us to holy living, how much more the impact of God! God's presence should shame us of our worldly ambitions and inspire us to be more like Him.

Next Moses’ legacy is noted for the greatness of his work. He was uniquely given the call to deliver Israel from Egypt and to give Israel the law. In this sense he was a type of Christ. However, God's children are called to be useful to the master and to be a people zealous of good works (Titus 2:14).

Finally, his legacy is noted for God’s power working through him. Moses, as God's instrument, worked signs and wonders in Egypt and in Israel. God's children can also be a reflection of God’s mighty power working in them (Ephesians 3:20).

Is God in charge of your life? If so what kind of story is he writing? What kind of impact and influence are you leaving with others who know you?

By George Slover

By George Slover | Visit www.smcofc.org or www.ibiblestudy.net

view email in browser | Unsubscribe george_slover@yahoo.com | Update your profile | Forward to a friend

Posted in Moment With The Master