Bible Studies 3 (For newest Bible Study see "Bible Studies 19")
Christmas Story
As we prepare to celebrate Christmas, I want to explore the mindset of the people living in Israel at the time of Jesus Christ. And I want to explain the significance of His birth, death, and resurrection.
Jesus’ birth and ministry were foretold by the prophets and recorded in the Old Testament of the Bible hundreds of years before He was born (Isaiah 53, Isaiah 61:1, Micah 5:1-2, Psalm 2:7, Proverbs 30:4 are but a few passages declaring Jesus and His holiness). And the New Testament of the Bible is filled with first-hand testimony of Jesus and his life, death, and resurrection. Also, a well-respected 1st century Jewish historian named Josephus, (who was never a Christian, born in 37 AD) mentions Jesus in two separate passages in his writings. And Tacitus (a Roman historian of the 1st century) mentioned Jesus and Pontius Pilate in his writings. So, there is secular corroboration as to Jesus’ existence.
Hundreds of years before Jesus was born, during the time of King David’s reign of Israel (yep, the same man who, as the little shepherd boy, killed Goliath, the giant with a stone), he conquered all of Israel’s enemies and Israel was mighty and strong. God told Nathan the prophet in 2 Samuel 7:8, “Now therefore, thus shall you say to My servant David, ‘Thus says the LORD of hosts: “I took you from the sheepfold, from following the sheep, to be ruler over My people, over Israel.” And in verse 16, "And your house and your kingdom shall be established forever before you.Your throne shall be established forever."
When David died his son, Solomon, took over the throne (remember Solomon is said to have been the most wise man that ever lived). During Solomon’s reign the nation was at peace and the prosperity of Israel increased beyond compare. When Solomon died the nation went downhill. King after king did not serve God like David and Solomon did. These following kings allowed other gods to be worshipped, and also allowed the people of the nation to commit other sins against God.
Eventually, the Roman Empire conquered Israel and the surrounding nations. For approximately 400 years (63 B.C.-313 A.D.) Israel was ruled by Rome. During this time the Jewish people longed for relief and deliverance from the Romans. They lived under a cruel and Godless system.
The Jewish people were subject to Roman rulers, but they were allowed to worship God. There were two very strong religious groups during that time: the Sadducees and Pharisees. Both groups vied for power over the people and used their religious zeal and authority to influence the people. The Pharisees were the more powerful group, and they controlled almost all aspects of worship and day-to-day living through the High Priest and the religious leaders. God gave Moses the directions for prayer, worship, sacrifice, and daily living (called the “Law of Moses”). Eventually as the men in power became seduced by their influence and position, these religious leaders changed God’s directions (the Law) and made them more strict and ritualistic.
So, we have the Jewish people living under the rule of Rome and subject to religious zealots who, together, made their lives unbearable. They were READY for CHANGE! Now the stage is set for “The Rest of the Story.”
The people of Israel studied and knew the Scriptures. Of course there was no Bible at that time, but they did have all of the writings we know of as the Old Testament (books by Moses, David, Solomon, and all of the books of the prophets to name a few). So, they knew there was going to be a King of the Jews. This King was prophesied to save the world; deliver the oppressed; whose kingdom would reign forever; would be the King of the World; etc… This is the Savior the Jewish people expected.
It was during this time that Jesus was born. As Jesus’ earthly ministry began to unfold, He healed the sick, caused the lame to walk, healed victims of leprosy, raised the dead, fed thousands with little provisions, and performed mighty miracles. He also spoke as one who had authority over everything, and everyone, who would challenge him. He spoke with the righteousness of God, and God Himself declared Jesus as His Son in Mark 1:9-11, “It came to pass in those days that Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee, and was baptized by John in the Jordan. And immediately, coming up from the water, He (John) saw the heavens parting and the Spirit (the Holy Spirit) descending upon Him like a dove. Then a voice came from heaven, 'You are My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.'” (Here we see all three members of the Trinity: Father; God, Son; Jesus, and the Holy Spirit.) So, the people of Israel were looking, waiting, hoping, expecting their Savior – one who would conquer the Romans and be their King. That is why, when He rode into Jerusalem on the foal of a donkey, the Jews "took branches of palm trees and went out to meet Him, and cried out: 'Hosanna! Blessed is He who comes in the name of the LORD! The King of Israel!'" John 12-13. The Jewish King had finally come!
But Jesus did not act like they expected Him to. They expected Him to be Kingly and throw Rome out and be their King, but Jesus came as the “Suffering Servant” instead. Jesus was meek, loving, kind, concerned, uplifting, reassuring, etc… But at the same time He pointed out the flaws of man and the religious systems and leaders of the day. That is why the Pharisees did not accept Jesus because He did not say how great they were and exalt them. He was not “their Savior,” but instead an impostor. They conspired for His death. During the Passover time, it was Roman practice to release one prisoner back to the Jews as kind of a peace offering. Instead of Jesus being release since He was innocent of all charges trumped up against Him, the religious leaders incited the crowd to demand Barabbas (a true criminal) be released instead. Jesus’ fate was sealed – He would die on the cross - crucified. Satan wins because he killed the Son of God! Or does he?
Jesus died on the cross. But that’s not the end of the story. Satan thought he won when he killed Jesus on the cross. However, God (as revealed through the prophets and others) declared His plan of salvation for mankind: Jesus, the Passover Lamb, came to earth as a Man specifically to lay down His life for us. That was the plan all along. Just before He died, Jesus said “It is finished” (John 19:30). The Old Covenant (the Law of Moses) was finished and the New Covenant-the Blood Covenant (Jesus’ sacrifice for mankind’s sin) would now begin. Through His death and resurrection, Jesus defeated Satan for all eternity. When He rose again, Jesus rose as the King of Kings and Lord of Lords! He alone is worthy to be praised.
Now, you may be asking “What does all this have to do with King David’s kingdom?” Jesus’ earthly parents were both direct descendants of King David. Right now, Jesus is sitting on His throne with our heavenly Father, God. When Jesus comes back to earth at His Second Advent (or second coming to the earth) He will reign from Jerusalem over His kingdom on the throne of David for all eternity. And that is “The Rest of the Story!”
We are directed to confess our sins to God, and ask God to forgive us of our sins. In order to become a child of God, or to rededicate your life to Jesus, please pray the "Salvation Prayer:"
A prayer of repentance of sin and acceptance of Jesus as Lord and Savior
“Father, I accept the Blood Covenant you made for me and acknowledge Jesus Christ as the Messiah. I understand that I am a sinner and need salvation. I accept Jesus as your Son and my Savior. I ask you to forgive me of my sins and I invite Jesus to come into my heart and be Lord of my life. I will pray for, and welcome, the baptism of the Holy Ghost, enabling me to live my life to be pleasing to you. I know my name is written, this day, in the Lamb’s Book of Life.”
_______________________________________________________________________________________________
IT IS FINISHED
During Old Testament times the Jews were under what is known as the Mosaic Law. That is the law that God gave to Moses. This law consisted of 365 negative commands and 248 positive for a total of 613 commands. We can divide them into three parts or sections: the moral, the social, and the ceremonial. As such, it covered every possible area of the life of Israel. It was a very detailed list of ceremonial events, sacrifices, religious feasts to celebrate, and basically included all aspects of daily living for the Jews. There were so many intricate details and aspects of the law it was hard to complete all parts all the time and be in compliance with the law.
Since the time of Adam and Eve, when God killed an animal to “cover” their nakedness, man’s sins had to be covered by the blood of a sacrifice. During the period before Jesus, man had to offer for sacrifice a clean, perfect animal for the covering of his sins. The Mosaic Law outlined which animals were to be sacrificed, how many, when, etc… People living in those times were said to be “under the law.” Mind you, it was not Moses’ law, but God’s law for His people as given to Moses. Under this system, man had to continue to offer sacrifices for their sins since an animal sacrifice could not cover a person’s sins permanently.
God also had the Jews make a temple to worship Him. One part of the temple was set aside for the presence of God. It was called the Holy of Holies and there God would be with His people. The Holy of Holies was separated from the rest of the temple by a very thick, extremely well-made veil or curtain. This veil ensured no-one inadvertently came into God’s presence. Only the high Priest was allowed in the Holy of Holies and then only under certain conditions at specific times.
The Law of Moses was in effect from the time God gave it to Moses until Jesus became the ultimate, supreme sacrifice for all mankind, for all time. Once Jesus allowed Himself to be crucified on the cross, and rose again on the 3rd day, He defeated sin, death, pain, suffering, temptation, sickness, etc…
When Jesus died on the cross He said, “It is finished” and the veil separating the Holy of Holies from the rest of the temple was completely torn in two.
This is significant for us because when Jesus died on the cross, and rose again, He made the Mosaic Law null and void. We no longer have to live under the old law or Old Testament (covenant). We have a New Testament in Jesus.
When Jesus rose again, He became our Savior and intercessor. Through Him we have direct access to God. Jesus is our High Priest! Hebrews 4:14-16, “Seeing then that we have a great High Priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need.”
Jesus came to this earth and was a man. Yes, He is a full member of the Trinity (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit), but when He was on this earth He was a full man – just like us. When Jesus allowed them to beat Him beyond recognition, curse Him, spit on Him, mock Him and died on the cross for us, He paid the penalty for our sins and earned the right to have first place in our heart and in our life. Our salvation is free to us but it cost Jesus everything, His life.
Because of Jesus’ sacrifice we have the authority and right to come into the presence of God, our Father, and bring our petitions to Him. We have direct access to God! How amazing and wonderful is that?!
It is now time to make a decision: “Will I continue in my self-serving, gratuitous lifestyle, living only for self, or will I accept Jesus as my Savior and do the will of my Father?” If you have never said this prayer before, I implore you say it now.
"Heavenly Father, I come to You in the Name of Jesus. Your Word (the Bible) says "Whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved" and "If you will confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus, and shall believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you shall be saved." You said my salvation would be the result of Your Holy Spirit giving me new birth by coming to live in me and that if I would ask, You would fill me with Your Spirit. I take You at Your Word. I confess that Jesus is Lord. I ask that you forgive me of all my sins and cleanse me from all unrighteousness. I believe in my heart that You have raised Jesus from the dead and I am a ‘New Man’ (or Woman) in Christ. Thank You for coming to live in my heart, for giving me Your Holy Spirit as You have promised, and for being Lord over my life. Amen."(Luke 11:13; Acts 2:4, 2:21; Romans 8:9-11, 10:9; John 3:5-6, 15-16)
Once we ask forgiveness for our sins, accept the cleansing Blood of Jesus to cover our sins, and confess that Jesus is our Savior; we become a Child of the Most High God. Satan cannot convict us, nor can he condemn us. He can only accuse us. But we MUST remember Jesus conquered ALL sin. Once forgiven, we must live holy lives acceptable to God. If we are truly sorry for our sins and accept Jesus as our Lord we will want to live to please Him. We will desire to remain in His presence “… under the shadow of the Almighty” Psalms 91:1. You become a new person. You should want to change from being the sinful person you were, to a new person in Jesus. If you don't feel an intense desire to change, and turn away from your sin and your old sin-nature, then you ARE NOT SAVED. I beg you to search your heart and really turn to Jesus and ask for forgiveness and TURN AWAY FROM YOUR OLD SIN LIFE.
In Mark 8:34-35, “When He (Jesus) had called the people to Himself, with His disciples also, He said to them, ‘Whoever desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me. For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake and the gospel’s will save it.’” We must crucify (to put to death by nailing or binding the hands and feet to a cross. to treat with gross injustice; persecute; torment; torture. to subdue (passion, sin, etc.)). So, we are to subdue our passions, desires, needs, etc… Our ENTIRE being, our very life MUST be in subjection, submission to Christ, our King. We must not allow the desires of the flesh to keep us from doing the work of Jesus. Paul said in 1 Corinthians 10:13, “No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it.”
These words sung by Casting Crowns in the song “Glorious Day” are a fitting tribute to our Savior:
“One day when Heaven was filled with His praises
One day when sin was as black as could be
Jesus came forth to be born of a Virgin
Dwelt among men, my example is He
Word became flesh and the light shined among us
His glory revealed
Living He loved me, dying He saved me
And buried He carried my sins far away
Rising He justified freely forever
One day He's coming, oh, glorious day, oh, glorious day”
Christmas Story
As we prepare to celebrate Christmas, I want to explore the mindset of the people living in Israel at the time of Jesus Christ. And I want to explain the significance of His birth, death, and resurrection.
Jesus’ birth and ministry were foretold by the prophets and recorded in the Old Testament of the Bible hundreds of years before He was born (Isaiah 53, Isaiah 61:1, Micah 5:1-2, Psalm 2:7, Proverbs 30:4 are but a few passages declaring Jesus and His holiness). And the New Testament of the Bible is filled with first-hand testimony of Jesus and his life, death, and resurrection. Also, a well-respected 1st century Jewish historian named Josephus, (who was never a Christian, born in 37 AD) mentions Jesus in two separate passages in his writings. And Tacitus (a Roman historian of the 1st century) mentioned Jesus and Pontius Pilate in his writings. So, there is secular corroboration as to Jesus’ existence.
Hundreds of years before Jesus was born, during the time of King David’s reign of Israel (yep, the same man who, as the little shepherd boy, killed Goliath, the giant with a stone), he conquered all of Israel’s enemies and Israel was mighty and strong. God told Nathan the prophet in 2 Samuel 7:8, “Now therefore, thus shall you say to My servant David, ‘Thus says the LORD of hosts: “I took you from the sheepfold, from following the sheep, to be ruler over My people, over Israel.” And in verse 16, "And your house and your kingdom shall be established forever before you.Your throne shall be established forever."
When David died his son, Solomon, took over the throne (remember Solomon is said to have been the most wise man that ever lived). During Solomon’s reign the nation was at peace and the prosperity of Israel increased beyond compare. When Solomon died the nation went downhill. King after king did not serve God like David and Solomon did. These following kings allowed other gods to be worshipped, and also allowed the people of the nation to commit other sins against God.
Eventually, the Roman Empire conquered Israel and the surrounding nations. For approximately 400 years (63 B.C.-313 A.D.) Israel was ruled by Rome. During this time the Jewish people longed for relief and deliverance from the Romans. They lived under a cruel and Godless system.
The Jewish people were subject to Roman rulers, but they were allowed to worship God. There were two very strong religious groups during that time: the Sadducees and Pharisees. Both groups vied for power over the people and used their religious zeal and authority to influence the people. The Pharisees were the more powerful group, and they controlled almost all aspects of worship and day-to-day living through the High Priest and the religious leaders. God gave Moses the directions for prayer, worship, sacrifice, and daily living (called the “Law of Moses”). Eventually as the men in power became seduced by their influence and position, these religious leaders changed God’s directions (the Law) and made them more strict and ritualistic.
So, we have the Jewish people living under the rule of Rome and subject to religious zealots who, together, made their lives unbearable. They were READY for CHANGE! Now the stage is set for “The Rest of the Story.”
The people of Israel studied and knew the Scriptures. Of course there was no Bible at that time, but they did have all of the writings we know of as the Old Testament (books by Moses, David, Solomon, and all of the books of the prophets to name a few). So, they knew there was going to be a King of the Jews. This King was prophesied to save the world; deliver the oppressed; whose kingdom would reign forever; would be the King of the World; etc… This is the Savior the Jewish people expected.
It was during this time that Jesus was born. As Jesus’ earthly ministry began to unfold, He healed the sick, caused the lame to walk, healed victims of leprosy, raised the dead, fed thousands with little provisions, and performed mighty miracles. He also spoke as one who had authority over everything, and everyone, who would challenge him. He spoke with the righteousness of God, and God Himself declared Jesus as His Son in Mark 1:9-11, “It came to pass in those days that Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee, and was baptized by John in the Jordan. And immediately, coming up from the water, He (John) saw the heavens parting and the Spirit (the Holy Spirit) descending upon Him like a dove. Then a voice came from heaven, 'You are My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.'” (Here we see all three members of the Trinity: Father; God, Son; Jesus, and the Holy Spirit.) So, the people of Israel were looking, waiting, hoping, expecting their Savior – one who would conquer the Romans and be their King. That is why, when He rode into Jerusalem on the foal of a donkey, the Jews "took branches of palm trees and went out to meet Him, and cried out: 'Hosanna! Blessed is He who comes in the name of the LORD! The King of Israel!'" John 12-13. The Jewish King had finally come!
But Jesus did not act like they expected Him to. They expected Him to be Kingly and throw Rome out and be their King, but Jesus came as the “Suffering Servant” instead. Jesus was meek, loving, kind, concerned, uplifting, reassuring, etc… But at the same time He pointed out the flaws of man and the religious systems and leaders of the day. That is why the Pharisees did not accept Jesus because He did not say how great they were and exalt them. He was not “their Savior,” but instead an impostor. They conspired for His death. During the Passover time, it was Roman practice to release one prisoner back to the Jews as kind of a peace offering. Instead of Jesus being release since He was innocent of all charges trumped up against Him, the religious leaders incited the crowd to demand Barabbas (a true criminal) be released instead. Jesus’ fate was sealed – He would die on the cross - crucified. Satan wins because he killed the Son of God! Or does he?
Jesus died on the cross. But that’s not the end of the story. Satan thought he won when he killed Jesus on the cross. However, God (as revealed through the prophets and others) declared His plan of salvation for mankind: Jesus, the Passover Lamb, came to earth as a Man specifically to lay down His life for us. That was the plan all along. Just before He died, Jesus said “It is finished” (John 19:30). The Old Covenant (the Law of Moses) was finished and the New Covenant-the Blood Covenant (Jesus’ sacrifice for mankind’s sin) would now begin. Through His death and resurrection, Jesus defeated Satan for all eternity. When He rose again, Jesus rose as the King of Kings and Lord of Lords! He alone is worthy to be praised.
Now, you may be asking “What does all this have to do with King David’s kingdom?” Jesus’ earthly parents were both direct descendants of King David. Right now, Jesus is sitting on His throne with our heavenly Father, God. When Jesus comes back to earth at His Second Advent (or second coming to the earth) He will reign from Jerusalem over His kingdom on the throne of David for all eternity. And that is “The Rest of the Story!”
We are directed to confess our sins to God, and ask God to forgive us of our sins. In order to become a child of God, or to rededicate your life to Jesus, please pray the "Salvation Prayer:"
A prayer of repentance of sin and acceptance of Jesus as Lord and Savior
“Father, I accept the Blood Covenant you made for me and acknowledge Jesus Christ as the Messiah. I understand that I am a sinner and need salvation. I accept Jesus as your Son and my Savior. I ask you to forgive me of my sins and I invite Jesus to come into my heart and be Lord of my life. I will pray for, and welcome, the baptism of the Holy Ghost, enabling me to live my life to be pleasing to you. I know my name is written, this day, in the Lamb’s Book of Life.”
_______________________________________________________________________________________________
IT IS FINISHED
During Old Testament times the Jews were under what is known as the Mosaic Law. That is the law that God gave to Moses. This law consisted of 365 negative commands and 248 positive for a total of 613 commands. We can divide them into three parts or sections: the moral, the social, and the ceremonial. As such, it covered every possible area of the life of Israel. It was a very detailed list of ceremonial events, sacrifices, religious feasts to celebrate, and basically included all aspects of daily living for the Jews. There were so many intricate details and aspects of the law it was hard to complete all parts all the time and be in compliance with the law.
Since the time of Adam and Eve, when God killed an animal to “cover” their nakedness, man’s sins had to be covered by the blood of a sacrifice. During the period before Jesus, man had to offer for sacrifice a clean, perfect animal for the covering of his sins. The Mosaic Law outlined which animals were to be sacrificed, how many, when, etc… People living in those times were said to be “under the law.” Mind you, it was not Moses’ law, but God’s law for His people as given to Moses. Under this system, man had to continue to offer sacrifices for their sins since an animal sacrifice could not cover a person’s sins permanently.
God also had the Jews make a temple to worship Him. One part of the temple was set aside for the presence of God. It was called the Holy of Holies and there God would be with His people. The Holy of Holies was separated from the rest of the temple by a very thick, extremely well-made veil or curtain. This veil ensured no-one inadvertently came into God’s presence. Only the high Priest was allowed in the Holy of Holies and then only under certain conditions at specific times.
The Law of Moses was in effect from the time God gave it to Moses until Jesus became the ultimate, supreme sacrifice for all mankind, for all time. Once Jesus allowed Himself to be crucified on the cross, and rose again on the 3rd day, He defeated sin, death, pain, suffering, temptation, sickness, etc…
When Jesus died on the cross He said, “It is finished” and the veil separating the Holy of Holies from the rest of the temple was completely torn in two.
This is significant for us because when Jesus died on the cross, and rose again, He made the Mosaic Law null and void. We no longer have to live under the old law or Old Testament (covenant). We have a New Testament in Jesus.
When Jesus rose again, He became our Savior and intercessor. Through Him we have direct access to God. Jesus is our High Priest! Hebrews 4:14-16, “Seeing then that we have a great High Priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need.”
Jesus came to this earth and was a man. Yes, He is a full member of the Trinity (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit), but when He was on this earth He was a full man – just like us. When Jesus allowed them to beat Him beyond recognition, curse Him, spit on Him, mock Him and died on the cross for us, He paid the penalty for our sins and earned the right to have first place in our heart and in our life. Our salvation is free to us but it cost Jesus everything, His life.
Because of Jesus’ sacrifice we have the authority and right to come into the presence of God, our Father, and bring our petitions to Him. We have direct access to God! How amazing and wonderful is that?!
It is now time to make a decision: “Will I continue in my self-serving, gratuitous lifestyle, living only for self, or will I accept Jesus as my Savior and do the will of my Father?” If you have never said this prayer before, I implore you say it now.
"Heavenly Father, I come to You in the Name of Jesus. Your Word (the Bible) says "Whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved" and "If you will confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus, and shall believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you shall be saved." You said my salvation would be the result of Your Holy Spirit giving me new birth by coming to live in me and that if I would ask, You would fill me with Your Spirit. I take You at Your Word. I confess that Jesus is Lord. I ask that you forgive me of all my sins and cleanse me from all unrighteousness. I believe in my heart that You have raised Jesus from the dead and I am a ‘New Man’ (or Woman) in Christ. Thank You for coming to live in my heart, for giving me Your Holy Spirit as You have promised, and for being Lord over my life. Amen."(Luke 11:13; Acts 2:4, 2:21; Romans 8:9-11, 10:9; John 3:5-6, 15-16)
Once we ask forgiveness for our sins, accept the cleansing Blood of Jesus to cover our sins, and confess that Jesus is our Savior; we become a Child of the Most High God. Satan cannot convict us, nor can he condemn us. He can only accuse us. But we MUST remember Jesus conquered ALL sin. Once forgiven, we must live holy lives acceptable to God. If we are truly sorry for our sins and accept Jesus as our Lord we will want to live to please Him. We will desire to remain in His presence “… under the shadow of the Almighty” Psalms 91:1. You become a new person. You should want to change from being the sinful person you were, to a new person in Jesus. If you don't feel an intense desire to change, and turn away from your sin and your old sin-nature, then you ARE NOT SAVED. I beg you to search your heart and really turn to Jesus and ask for forgiveness and TURN AWAY FROM YOUR OLD SIN LIFE.
In Mark 8:34-35, “When He (Jesus) had called the people to Himself, with His disciples also, He said to them, ‘Whoever desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me. For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake and the gospel’s will save it.’” We must crucify (to put to death by nailing or binding the hands and feet to a cross. to treat with gross injustice; persecute; torment; torture. to subdue (passion, sin, etc.)). So, we are to subdue our passions, desires, needs, etc… Our ENTIRE being, our very life MUST be in subjection, submission to Christ, our King. We must not allow the desires of the flesh to keep us from doing the work of Jesus. Paul said in 1 Corinthians 10:13, “No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it.”
These words sung by Casting Crowns in the song “Glorious Day” are a fitting tribute to our Savior:
“One day when Heaven was filled with His praises
One day when sin was as black as could be
Jesus came forth to be born of a Virgin
Dwelt among men, my example is He
Word became flesh and the light shined among us
His glory revealed
Living He loved me, dying He saved me
And buried He carried my sins far away
Rising He justified freely forever
One day He's coming, oh, glorious day, oh, glorious day”