Christian Weariness August 20, 2022

 

Christian Weariness                                      August 20, 2022 

As we head to the end of the age, is our love for the Father and Lord Jesus going to grow cold.

Matthew 24:11-13 Many false prophets will appear and deceive many people, (12)  and because lawlessness will increase, the love of many people will grow cold. (13)  But the person who endures to the end will be saved. 

Are we becoming more weariness or complacence in our lives towards the Father and the Lord Jesus and towards life in general, doing good works. 

What do we mean by weariness, 

extreme tiredness; fatigue: "he began to feel weariness"

reluctance to see or experience any more of something: 

Calm or secure satisfaction with oneself or one's lot: Self-Satisfaction a usually smug satisfaction with oneself or one's position or achievements.

Indifference, feeling of being satisfied with how things are and not wanting to try to make them better 

This sound like a very dangerous place to be if you are a Christian. 

What are some of the synonyms for complacence:  pride, pridefulness, self-admiration, self-assumption, self-conceit, self-congratulation, self-esteem, self-glory, self-importance, self-love, self-opinion, self-satisfaction, smugness,  

Notice the words “self-something.” We turn inward, not outward. 

We look at the History of Israel and Juda and over a period of time, complacency sets in for the people.  Same thing day in and day out in sacrifice of animals. 

As Christians as a whole, maybe even us, do we live like God doesn’t exist around us or even in our lives except on church day. 

Romans 15:4 For whatever things were written before were written for our learning, that we through the patience and comfort of the Scriptures might have hope.                        {Old Testament Scriptures} 

Lord Jesus had written for Him in Malachi 1 about the attitude the priests had toward God 

Malachi 1:6 "A son honors his father and a servant his master. So if I'm a father, where is my honor? And if I'm a master, where is my respect?" says the LORD of the Heavenly Armies to you priests who are despising my name. "But you ask, 'How have we despised your name?' 

Remember, these are the priests in charge of the worship for the people. 

Here the Lord Jesus is saying a truth: A father and a master can expect honor from those beneath them, but God was not receiving the honor due Him from the priests. 

He addresses the priests because they ought to be leaders to the rest of the people, whereas they are foremost in “despising His name.” 

Are we not priests and kings, could this apply to us 

1 Peter 2:9 But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people to be his very own and to proclaim the wonderful deeds of the one who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light. 

Revelation 1:6 and has made us kings and priests to His God and Father, to Him be glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen. 

Exodus 20:12 "Honor your father and your mother so that you may live long in the land that the LORD your God is giving you. 

Luke 6:46 "Why do you keep calling me 'Lord, Lord,' but don't do what I tell you?   {does this apply to us today} 

1 Peter 1:17 If you call "Father" the one who judges everyone impartially according to what they have done, you must live in reverent fear as long as you are strangers in a strange land. 

So we are kings and priests in the eyes of our Father and Lord Jesus.

Could this be about us, as Christians in the body. 

Malachi 1:7 By presenting defiled food on my altar. And you ask 'How have we defiled you?' By saying 'The Table of the LORD is contemptible.' 

We know the priests were cutting deals, accepting blemished animals for sacrifice and for selfish reasons. 

Malachi 1:8-9 When you bring blind animals for sacrifice, is that not wrong? And when you sacrifice crippled or diseased animals, is that not wrong? Offer that to your governor—would he be pleased with you or receive you favorably?" asks the LORD of the Heavenly Armies.  (9)  "And now, go ahead and implore God by saying, 'Be gracious to us.' Will he receive you favorably and accept offerings like that from your hand?" asks the LORD of the Heavenly Armies. 

Malachi 1:10-11 "Oh, that one of you would shut the Temple doors and not light useless fires on the altar! I'm not pleased with you," says the LORD of the Heavenly Armies, "and I'll accept no offerings from you.  (11)  Even so, from where the sun rises to where it sets my name will be great among the Gentiles. Incense will be brought to me everywhere, along with pure offerings, because my name will be great among the Gentiles," says the LORD of the Heavenly Armies. 

Malachi 1:12 "But you are profaning my name by saying that the Table of the LORD is defiled and that its fruit and its food are contemptible. 

Deuteronomy 15:21 If it has a blemish; lameness, blindness, or any kind of defect; you must not sacrifice it to the LORD your God. 

Ezekiel 44:7 You kept on bringing in foreigners, those who were uncircumcised in heart and flesh, to profane my sanctuary by being inside my Temple, and by doing so you've emptied my covenant, all the while offering my food; the fat and the blood; in addition to all of the other loathsome things you've done. 

The priests were treating the Table of the Lord {that is, the altar: like ordinary things, 

What about Christians, but do we truly honor God with our lives, praise, time and treasure, or are offering disrespectful cast-off on our own terms.  We should not disrespect Lord Jesus by offering Him second choice and halfhearted service.  

Malachi 1:8 When you offer blind animals for sacrifice, is that not wrong? When you sacrifice lame or diseased animals, is that not wrong? Try offering them to your governor! Would he be pleased with you? Would he accept you?" says the LORD Almighty.

The demands of holy worship of God had been made clear in the Law. Only the best should be presented as an offering to the Lord; no one was to come with an offering that was blemished or unclean 

Are we not a living sacrifice in the view of the Father and the Lord Jesus. 

Romans 12:1 I therefore urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercies, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices that are holy and pleasing to God, for this is the reasonable way for you to worship. 

Romans 2:21-22 as you teach others, do you fail to teach yourself? As you preach against stealing, do you steal?  (22)  As you forbid adultery, do you commit adultery? As you abhor idols, do you rob temples? 

Romans 2:23-24 As you boast about the Law, do you dishonor God by breaking the Law?  (24)  As it is written, "God's name is being blasphemed among the gentiles because of you." 

When we allow sin to remain in our lives, we offer God disqualified service, and He will not accept it. Sin keeps us from fully participating in God’s plans. 

Malachi 1:13 You also say, 'Oh, what a weariness!' And you sneer at it," Says the LORD of hosts. "And you bring the stolen, the lame, and the sick; Thus you bring an offering! Should I accept this from your hand?" Says the LORD. 

The demands of God were neither understood nor appreciated by the priests; they seemed to be mere busywork. Stolen, lame, sick: The gifts of the priests were not presentable; some were stolen goods, and others were animals that were useless. To sacrifice something of no value was not a sacrifice at all. 

When we allow sin to remain in our lives, we develop disdainful attitudes.

Here, the priests referred to their calling as “weariness.” They would “sneer” at the work. 

They; the priests; were bored with serving the Lord. Their attitudes were so bad that God wished that they would shut the doors to the temple. 

Again, is this similar to us and easy to do, and it’s an easy trap as we slip into spiritual complacency. The Creator of the universe calls us to worship Him, and yet we struggle to attend church or spend time in Bible study and prayer. 

We claim to be God’s children, but our hearts are far from Him. We cling to the things of this world, while treating the holy as mundane. 

What comes to mind is the Laodicea Church in the Book of Revelation. 

Revelation 3:15-16 'I know your actions, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were cold or hot.  (16)  Since you are lukewarm and neither hot nor cold, I am going to spit you out of my mouth. 

Revelation 3:17 You say, "I am rich. I have become wealthy. I don't need anything." Yet you don't realize that you are miserable, pitiful, poor, blind, and naked. 

Galatians 6:9-10 Let's not get tired of doing what is good, for at the right time we will reap a harvest—if we do not give up.  (10)  So then, whenever we have the opportunity, let's practice doing good to everyone, especially to the family of faith. 

2 Thessalonians 3:13 Brothers, do not get tired of doing what is right. 

What are Christians and we as individuals to do.  

Take our concern in prayer to the Father and confess our sin, His promise that He will forgive us and remove our sins with grace. 

James 4:6-8 But he gives all the more grace. And so he says, "God opposes the arrogant but gives grace to the humble."  (7)  Therefore, submit yourselves to God. Resist the devil, and he will run away from you.  (8)  Come close to God, and he will come close to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded. 

What is the bottom line:  Christian contentment means that no matter what happens, we are fully satisfied in Jesus. Christian weariness means that no matter what happens, we are fully self-satisfied with your current personal effort in pursuing Christ. 

Weariness is Dangerous for Christians Because It Means we Are Not Growing in the knowledge of our Lord and Creator, Growing is a life time effort to endure. 

2 Peter 3:18 Instead, continue to grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus, the Messiah. Glory belongs to him both now and on that eternal day! Amen.

 Christians should never stand still, we are either growing or backsliding.  What can we do.  Peter tells us: 

2 Peter 1:5-6 For this very reason, you must make every effort to supplement your faith with moral character, your moral character with knowledge,  (6)  your knowledge with self-control, your self-control with endurance, your endurance with godliness, 

2 Peter 1:7-8 your godliness with brotherly kindness, and your brotherly kindness with love.  (8)  For if you possess these qualities, and if they continue to increase among you, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in attaining a full knowledge of our Lord Jesus, the Messiah. 

2 Peter 1:9-10 For the person who lacks these qualities is blind and shortsighted, and has forgotten the cleansing that he has received from his past sins. (10)  So then, my brothers, be all the more eager to make your calling and election certain, for if you keep on doing this you will never fail. 

Why do pastors and members after years of services have moral failures and some even renouncing their faith.  Probably, first had a prayer failure due to their complacency in Christ.

We must seek God always, continually, praying about everything at all times  

Luke 21:36 So be alert at all times, praying that you may have strength to escape all these things that are going to take place and to take your stand in the presence of the Son of Man." 

We must seek him new every day if we are to finish the race strong. 

2 Timothy 4:7-8 I have fought the good fight. I have completed the race. I have kept the faith.  (8)  The victor's crown of righteousness is now waiting for me, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on the day that he comes, and not only to me but also to all who eagerly wait for his appearing. 

Contentment in Christ is one of the main goals for the Christian. 

Philippians 3:13-14 Brothers, I do not consider myself to have embraced it yet. But this one thing I do: Forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, (14)  I keep pursuing the goal to win the prize of God's heavenly call in the Messiah Jesus. 

Laying aside the past, we should strains forward, looking to the future. Eagerly we seeks the goal. 

Hebrews 12:1-2 Therefore, having so vast a cloud of witnesses {angels?} surrounding us, and throwing off everything that hinders us and especially the sin that so easily entangles us, let us keep running with endurance the race set before us,  (2)  fixing our attention on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of the faith, who, in view of the joy set before him, endured the cross, disregarding its shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. 

1 Corinthians 15:57-58 But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus the Messiah!  (58)  Therefore, my dear brothers, be steadfast, unmovable, always excelling in the work of the Lord, because you know that the work that you do for the Lord isn't wasted. 

Weariness Complacency, however, is truly dangerous for the Christian. Let’s pray the Holy Spirit will protect us from the dangers of living in the past while forgetting God in the present. 

2 Corinthians 11:27-28 In weariness and painfulness, in watchings often, in hunger and thirst, in fastings often, in cold and nakedness.  (28)  Beside those things that are without, that which cometh upon me daily, the care of all the churches. 

Apostle Paul falls into weariness. 

The only cure to weariness is a passionate pursuit of Jesus Christ through prayer. 

Remember: person who endures to the end will be saved. 

So keep pressing on to the ultimate goal, be change in the future to spirit being! The sacrifices we have made this lifetime will be worth it. Be encouraged! God’s word is powerful and life changing, and Lord Jesus promises to complete the work he has started in us.

Suffering in this life as a Christian August 13, 2022

 

Suffering in this life as a Christian                             August 13, 2022

 

Luke tells us 

Acts 14:22 strengthening the souls of the disciples, exhorting them to continue in the faith, and saying, "We must through many tribulations enter the kingdom of God." 

What are tribulations which could be translated from Strong’s to mean:  pressure, afflicted, anguish, burdened, persecution, tribulation or trouble 

Apostle Paul says suffering can be mental, physical, emotional and spiritual.

 2 Corinthians 4:8-9 In every way we're troubled but not crushed, frustrated but not in despair,  (9)  persecuted but not abandoned, struck down but not destroyed. 

Apostle Paul says church and members are there to help and encourage each other when needed. 

Galatians 6:2 Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ. 

When we suffer, experience first hand and this equips us for the ministry for Lord Jesus. 

2 Corinthians 1:4 who {Jesus} comforts us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God. 

For those of us who call the United States home, we have; for the most part; lived a life of religious freedom. We have not had to fear for our death, health, or our family as we have worshiped Lord Jesus in some safety. 

This is not the case in other areas of the world. I read about a pastor in India whose skin is scarred from an acid attack. In Nigeria, Christians are regularly killed for their faith by Muslims. In some parts of the Middle East, you can be murdered by your own family if you profess Christ.

Muslim man in North Texas is in trial for killing his 2 daughters. 

Religious freedom, is what makes American great. It covers all people equally; Christians, Jews, Muslims, agnostics, and atheists. Religious freedom preserves America’s diversity, where people of different faiths, worldviews, and beliefs can peacefully live together without fear of punishment from the government. 

In some ways, even the freedom of religion in our country feels like it is slipping away slowly, as “cancel culture” seems to take ever-greater precedence over the First Amendment. 

It feels like to me we’re entering a new era in the United States, where there will be a cost to following Lord Jesus. 

This is nothing new, of course. Approximately 2,000 years ago, shortly after Jesus physically walked the roads of Jerusalem, Christians were already suffering for His name. 

In 1 Peter 4:12-19, we are told how we should respond when the world attacks us for our faith. 

1 Peter 4:12 Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal {Persecution} that has come on you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. 

Apparently Peter’s readers were astonished that they had to suffer as Christians, especially to the extent that they were suffering. The Greek word translated fiery trial here was also used to speak of the intense fire that burned away impurities in metals 

1 Peter 1:6-7 In all this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials.  (7)  These have come so that the proven genuineness of your faith; of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire; may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed. 

 

 

2 Corinthians 1:7 And our hope for you is firm, because we know that just as you share in our sufferings, so also you share in our comfort.

 

1 Peter 2:19-21 For it is commendable if someone bears up under the pain of unjust suffering because they are conscious of God.  (20)  But how is it to your credit if you receive a beating for doing wrong and endure it? But if you suffer for doing good and you endure it, this is commendable before God.  (21)  To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps.

 

2 Timothy 3:12 In fact, everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted, 

·      Trials refers to ordeals that we encounter in life rather than those things that would induce us to sin. 

·      Note that no one particular problem is in view here, but rather all the testing’s of life;  Little things add up, not plan on 

·      As Christians, we must expect sufferings (v. 12). Peter advises us to expect and anticipate suffering. It is unavoidable.  Wicked people are watching all the time. 

We occasionally act like we should get a free pass because we’re Christians; even questioning God’s goodness when bad things happen; but God promised that difficulties would come our way. 

Jesus says, 

John 16:33 "I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."  {with the Holy Spirit we have peace} 

If God promised us that we’re going to go through hard times, we shouldn’t be surprised when it happens. 

1 Peter 4:13-14 But rejoice inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed.  (14)  If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you.   {Baal worship-example of the Commonwealth games at Birmingham, England opening ceremony} 

We can rejoice when we go through trials. It sounds odd to say we can rejoice during suffering, but there are several reasons why we should: 

First, we can rejoice because when we suffer we are identified with Jesus Christ. This is exactly what the disciples did 

Acts 5:40-41 His speech persuaded them. They called the apostles in and had them flogged. Then they ordered them not to speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go.  (41)  The apostles left the Sanhedrin, rejoicing because they had been counted worthy of suffering disgrace for the Name.    {what type of flogging} 

Second, we can rejoice because we share in God’s glory. Just as we suffer with Him, we will also share in God’s glory when He returns in the near future. 

Romans 8:17 Now if we are children, then we are heirs; heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory. 

Finally, we can rejoice because when we are reviled, insulted, persecuted or mocked, God’s Spirit will rest on us. 

Again

1 Peter 4:14 If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you. 

1 Peter 4:15-16 If you suffer, it should not be as a murderer or thief or any other kind of criminal, or even as a meddler.  (16)  However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name.

 Our suffering will be a result of following Christ. We often want to play the victim, and claim we are being attacked when we’ve actually brought the suffering onto ourselves by our own actions (and it has nothing to do with our faith). 

There are consequences for our sin. If you are a thief or a gossip, you brought the punishment upon yourself. 

Peter makes it clear that we should not suffer in that way, because—as followers of Christ—we should live a life set apart for Him. Rather, we will suffer the wrath of the world because of our faith. 

1 Peter 2:20 But how is it to your credit if you receive a beating for doing wrong and endure it? But if you suffer for doing good and you endure it, this is commendable before God.

 

1 Peter 3:17 For it is better, if it is God's will, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil. 

1 Peter 4:16 However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name. 

We should glorify God in our suffering. We are not to be ashamed if we suffer for Christ. Rather, Peter instructs us to glorify God instead. 

Why? Because the suffering we endure on this earth in our service to Christ pales in comparison to the hope of eternity that awaits us in World Tomorrow in the future.    

1 Peter 4:17 For it is time for judgment to begin with God's household; and if it begins with us, what will the outcome be for those who do not obey the gospel of God? 

On the other hand, “those who do not obey the gospel of God” must still face judgment. 

1 Peter 4:18 And, "If it is hard for the righteous to be saved, what will become of the ungodly and the sinner?" 

No one deserves to be saved, and no one is able to be saved by his or her good works. Since everyone deserves to die because of their sins, the fact that anyone is saved is solely the result of God’s grace

 

Ephesians 2:8-9 For it is by grace you have been saved, through “faith;” and this is not from yourselves, it is the “gift” of God; (9)  not by works, so that no one can boast.

 

Ephesians 2:10 For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus {Holy Spirit / spirit in man” to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. 

These passages is summed up in in vs. 19, which says 

1 Peter 4:19 So then, those who suffer according to God's will should commit themselves to their faithful Creator and continue to do good.  {good means well doing, helping}

 Christians are to entrust their very lives to God, especially in the midst of suffering, always recognizing that He is the faithful Creator who is in control of all things. God never gives us more than we can handle 

1 Corinthians 10:13 No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it. 

Everything He does always has a good purpose, that God wants done 

Romans 8:28 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.

 We are not promised an easy and carefree life as followers of Jesus. Rather, we are promised that we will experience a “fiery trial;” maybe several trials. 

There is a cost to following Jesus, which Peter knew well. 

How will we respond when this happens? 

We will face pain in this life, especially as followers of Jesus, but the reward of our change to Spirit Beings far outweighs the sorrows for now. 

And finally, let’s end with some positive Scriptures 

1 Corinthians 15:51-53 Listen, I tell you a mystery: We will not all sleep, but we will all be changed (52)  in a flash, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed.  (53)  For the perishable must clothe itself with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality. 

1 Thessalonians 4:13-14 Brothers and sisters, we do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death, so that you do not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope.  (14)  For we believe that Jesus died and rose again, and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him. 

 1 Thessalonians 4:15-16 According to the Lord's word, we tell you that we who are still alive, who are left until the coming of the Lord, will certainly not precede those who have fallen asleep.  (16)  For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. 

1 Thessalonians 4:17-18 After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever.  (18)  Therefore encourage one another with these words.

Women accompanying Jesus

 

Let’s look at some ways women in the Church served, over the next few weeks, we will examine some of these women that is listed in the Scriptures.

 

Women accompanying Jesus

 

Luke 8:1 After this, Jesus traveled about from one town and village to another, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom of God. The Twelve were with him,

 

For centuries, wealthy people have sponsored artists so they can focus on their masterpiece instead of trying to pay the bills.  We will see that Jesus and the disciples had patrons, and they were often wealthy women.

 

Do we really understand how much work it is to take care of 13 men plus and the women in the traveling party.  The food, cleaning, sleeping, clothing, hygiene are some of the basic things that need to be done, daily.  It takes money and hard work.

 

Women at the cross

 

Matthew 27:55 Many women were there, watching from a distance. They had followed Jesus from Galilee to care for his needs.

 

 

Matthew 27:56 Among them were Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James and Joseph {Joses}, and the mother of Zebedee's sons. 

 

{Salome, wife of Zebedee, sons, James and John} { was sister of Mary, mother of Jesus, aunt of Jesus.  Jesus was cousins to James and John.}

 

{Mary, mother of James, Joseph, wife of Clopas or Alphaeus}

 

John 19:25 Meanwhile, standing near Jesus' cross were his mother, his mother's sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene.

 

Mary the wife of Clopas.

 

Mark 15:40-41 Now there were women watching from a distance. Among them were Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of young James and Joseph, and Salome.  (41)  They used to accompany him and care for him while he was in Galilee. Many other women who had come up to Jerusalem with him were there, too.

 

Many other women: no record who they were

 

She was called Magdalene, was she was an inhabitant of Magdala, or was used to distinct from the other 6 Mary’s mention in the Scriptures.

 

She was from Galilee, Magdala is a fishing town on the western shore of the Sea of Galilee in Roman Judea.  She gave financial help and domestic service to Jesus and his disciples.

 

The first 3 gospels give little evidence of Mary’s character. 

 

We find she was healed by Jesus. First appeared to; drove out 7 demons.

 

Luke 8:2 and also some women who had been cured of evil spirits and diseases: Mary (called Magdalene) from whom seven demons had come out;

 

Think back how the demons reacted to a person body with demons that Jesus was going to drive out demons.  The Scriptures show a possessed person wailing, thrashing, and tearing his or her clothes in front of a crowd.  She must have suffered from severe emotional or psychological trauma.  I can understand her deep devotion to Jesus on account of the healing must have very strong.    

 

Mary Magdalene is mention by name 12 times in the Scriptures and was a witness to Jesus crucifixion, His resurrection and probably at His burial.  Remember, we covered her as she escape with Lazarus from the Jews Leadership on boat to France.

 

Because Mary is listed as one of the women who were supporting Jesus's ministry financially, she must have been relatively wealthy. 

 

The places where she and the other women are mentioned throughout the gospels strongly indicate that they were vital to Jesus's ministry.

 

The fact that Mary Magdalene always appears first except one time at the cross, whenever she is listed in the Gospels as a member of a group of women, indicates that she was seen as a leader out of all of them just as Peter among the Apostles.  

 

Jesus is Buried, the women probably saw Joseph, and his men, take him down from the cross, and they followed him, and observed where he buried Jesus

 

Mark 15:47  Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of Joseph saw where he {Jesus} was laid.

 

Jesus Resurrection

 

Mark 16:1 When the Sabbath was over, Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome bought spices to go and anoint Jesus.

 

Why say James and not Joseph?

 

Mark 16:2 Very early on the first day of the week, just after sunrise, they were on their way to the tomb

 

the women took the spices they had prepared and went to the tomb.

 

 

 

 

Luke 24:1-3 But at early dawn on the first day of the week, they went to the tomb, taking the spices they had prepared.  (2)  They found the stone rolled away from the tomb,  (3)  but when they went in, they didn't find the body of the Lord Jesus.

 

Who was the angel talking to.  Talking to the women

 

Mark 16:6 "Don't be alarmed," he {angel} said. "You are looking for Jesus the Nazarene, who was crucified. He has risen! He is not here. See the place where they laid him. 

 

Mark 16:7 But go, tell his disciples and Peter, 'He is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him, just as he told you.'" 

 

Mark 16:8 Trembling and bewildered, the women went out and fled from the tomb. They said nothing to anyone, because they were afraid.

 

Luke 24:5 While the women remained terrified, bowing their faces to the ground, the men asked them, "Why are you looking among the dead for someone who is living?

 

Jesus Appears to Mary Magdalene

 

Mark 16:9 After Jesus had risen early on the first day of that week, he appeared first to Mary Magdalene, from whom he had driven out seven demons.

 

Notice, Jesus first appeared to a woman, not to a man.

 

Mark 16:10-11 She went and told those who had been with Jesus and who now were grieving and crying.  (11)  When they heard that he was alive and that he had been seen by her, they refused to believe Mary.

 

 

 

 

Mark 16:12-14 After this, Jesus appeared in a different form to two disciples as they were walking into the country.  (13)  They went back and told the others, who didn't believe them, either.  (14)  Finally he appeared to his eleven disciples while they were eating. He rebuked them for their unbelief and stubbornness, because they had not believed those who had seen him after he had risen.

 

They did not believe the women who told them.

 

Luke 24:8-9 Then they remembered his words.  (9)  When they came back from the tomb, they told all these things to the Eleven and to all the others.

 

Who were the other women

 

Luke 24:10 It was Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Mary the mother of James, and the others with them who told this to the apostles.

 

Luke 24:11 But they did not believe the women, because their words seemed to them like nonsense.    {men still did not believe}

 

Notice, the men did not believe Mary that Jesus was alive

 

Notice, it was the same women at the tomb and at the cross.

 

One of the most profound examples is Mary Magdalene, whom Jesus chose to be the first to witness his resurrection. She was entrusted with bringing the good news to the disciples that morning when she saw and spoke to Jesus.

 

John 20:16 Jesus said to her, "Mary." She turned toward him and cried out in Aramaic, "Rabboni!" (which means "Teacher"). 

 

John 20:17 Jesus said, "Do not hold on to me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father. Go instead to my brothers and tell them, 'I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.'"

 

John 20:18 So Mary Magdalene went and announced to the disciples, "I have seen the Lord!" She also told them what he had told her.

 

Mary could speak other languages and was the first person to touch Jesus.

Notice Jesus affectionately rebuke her with words, do not hold unto me. 

 

This show Mary devotion to Jesus as any of the women in the anointing Jesus feet stories and drying His feet with her hair.  The Scriptures are not clear if it is the same woman, Mary .

 

A woman, not a man, told to tell the disciples.

 

John 19:25 Meanwhile, standing near Jesus' cross were his mother, his mother's sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene.

 

Matthew 27:56 Among them were Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James and Joseph, and the mother of Zebedee's sons.

 

Mark 15:40 Now there were women watching from a distance. Among them were Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of young James and Joseph, and Salome.

 

Mark 15:41 They used to accompany him and care for him while he was in Galilee. Many other women who had come up to Jerusalem with him were there, too.

 

Mary the mother of James the younger and of Joseph, wife of Cleopas

 

She was a constant companion of Mary Magdalene in Galilee and Jerusalem.  She also gave both financial assistance and domestic care.

She was a witness at the cross and at the tomb.

She was also preparing spices they brought to prepare Jesus body and anoint him. 

 

Mark 16:7 But go, tell his disciples and Peter, 'He is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him, just as he told you.'"

 

This Mary when compared to the Gospels other individuals at the cross, this Mary was the wife of Cleopas, were the parents of James the younger {Apostle} and of Joseph

 

As a side:  He was a cousin, as they say, of the Savior. For Eusebius, Chapter XI records that

Clopas was a brother of Joseph, Mary’s husband

Interesting, the first male to see and talk with Jesus was the husband of this female, Mary, mother of James the younger and Joseph.  Cleopas.

 

Luke 24:18 One of them, named Cleopas, asked him, "Are you the only one visiting Jerusalem who does not know the things that have happened there in these days?"

 

Luke 24:19 He asked them, "What things?" They answered him, "The events involving Jesus of Nazareth, who was a prophet, mighty in what he said and did before God and all the people,

 

So who was Cleopas {Cleopas}, history was probably the brother to Joseph the carpenter and then brother brother-in-law to Mary, the mother of Jesus.

 

These verses are highlighting family relations between these women

 

This James is generally identified as James the Less, one of the 12 apostles, also called "James the son of Alphaeus"

 

(Matthew 10:3; Mark 3:18; Luke 6:15). "Clopas" and "Alphaeus" seem to be variations of the Aramaic name "Chalphai," which can be transliterated into Greek as "Clopas" and Latin as "Alphaeus."

"James the less", Alphaeus his father, is the same with Cleopas, or Cleophas, The Hebrew name, חלפי, which often occurs among the Jews (u), may be pronounced either Chlophi, or Alphi, or with the Greek termination Cleopas, or Alphaeus.

 

The 2nd-century historian Hegesippus states that Clopas was a brother of Joseph, Mary's husband and stepfather of Jesus. If true, then this apostle James was a cousin of Jesus.

Salome (mentioned by Mark), also called "the mother of Zebedee's sons" by Matthew and "His [Jesus'] mother's sister" by John. With Salome and Mary being sisters, their children—Jesus, son of Mary, and the disciples James and John, sons of Salome and Zebedee—were first cousins.

Luke 8:1-2 After this, Jesus traveled from one city and village to another, preaching and spreading the good news about God's kingdom. The Twelve were with him,  (2)  as well as some women who had been healed of evil spirits and illnesses: Mary, also called Magdalene, from whom seven demons had gone out;

 

Luke 8:3 Joanna the wife of Chuza, the manager of Herod's household; Susanna; and many others. These women were helping to support them out of their own means.

 

Susanna is only mention here, no other information, she supported Jesus and the group.

 

Joanna the wife of Chuza

 

Joanna is a woman mentioned in Luke 8:1-3 the gospels who was healed by Jesus and later supported him and his disciples in their travels, one of the women recorded in the Gospel of Luke as accompanying Jesus and the twelve and a witness to Jesus' resurrection.

 

She was the wife of Chuza, who managed the household of Herod Antipas, the ruler of Galilee as domestic administrator or steward at the court. Her name means "Yahweh has been gracious", a variation of the name "Anna" which means "grace" or "favor”

 

 

 

 

Luke 24:9-10 They returned from the tomb and reported all these things to the eleven disciples and all the others.  (10)  The women who told the apostles about it were Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Mary the mother of James, and some others.

 

Do you think the some others, could have been Peter’s wife.

 

1 Corinthians 9:5 We have the right to take a believing wife with us like the other apostles, the Lord's brothers, and Cephas, don't we?

 

Peter wife was with him until the very end, according to Eusebius, CHAPTER XXX of his book.

 

"They say, accordingly, that when the blessed Peter saw his own wife led out to die, he rejoiced because of her summons and her return home, and called to her very encouragingly and comfortingly, addressing her by name, and saying, 'Oh thou, remember the Lord.' Such was the

marriage of the blessed, and their perfect disposition toward those dearest to them."

 

Peter wife, no name given, was with Peter when he travel. 

 

Something added about the women and men.

 

Eusebius wrote Chapter XII: He also relates that Vespasian after the conquest of Jerusalem gave orders that all that belonged to the lineage of David should be sought out, in order that none of the royal race might be left among the Jews; and in consequence of this a most terrible persecution again hung over the Jews.

 

This order included the women, my understanding.   Many of Jesus extended family were killed because of this.

 

We will cover more women next time.

Women as Prophetess and Teachers

 

Women as Prophetess and Teachers                         July 30, 2022 

First, however, let’s examine what a prophet is, biblically.  

Often when people think of prophets, they think of someone who can predict the future or see the future. While that is partially true, a biblical prophet is much more than just the ability to see the future 

While the priest represents the people before God and takes their petitions to Him, the prophet represents God to people. In the Old Testament a prophet would face the people and speak. Jesus was a prophet who spoke the Word of God to the people. A prophet speaks for God.  

While a prophet speaks to people on behalf of God, a priest speaks to God on behalf of people. 

Some women have the gift of teaching and being a prophetess as is Anna,

While serving the Lord by staying in the temple and worshiping. She would also teach the people, and “to speak of him to all who were waiting for the redemption of Jerusalem.” 

Luke 2:36 Now there was one, Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was of a great age, and had lived with a husband seven years from her virginity; 

John the Baptist was the last prophet of the OT.  Lord Jesus was a prophet.  No other person I can find was mention as a Prophet after Jesus, except for 5 women. 

This Anna, at the time of Christ's birth, and afterwards four daughters of Philip the Evangelist, who were virgins, were prophetess.   

Anna’s work as a prophetess in the temple court suggests that she addressed all who would listen to her,  

Daughter of Phanuel {means Face of God}. Evidently a man well known in that day. 

Luke 2:37 and this woman was a widow of about eighty-four years, who did not depart from the temple, but served God with fasting and prayers night and day. 

Departed not from the temple. Probably assigned, on account of her saintly character, a chamber in the temple. 

Her age will appear to be great, if it be observed, that she was seven years a married woman, and fourscore and four years a widow, which make ninety one; and if she was married at twelve years and a half, at which time the Jews (o) reckoned females marriageable, she must be an hundred and three years old; and perhaps her age might be eight or ten years more: 

Was found there at all stated hours of the day, and even during the night services of the temple watchmen 

1 Timothy 5:5 Now she who is really a widow, and left alone, trusts in God and continues in supplications and prayers night and day. 

The Pharisees had adopted the practice of ‘fasting twice in the week,’ on Monday and Thursday, when Moses is supposed to have ascended, and descended from, Sinai 

Luke 2:38 And coming in that instant she gave thanks to the Lord, and spoke of Him to all those who looked for redemption in Jerusalem.

 Spoke unto men to edified and to encourage, and to comfort. We find this holy widow proclaiming Jesus to all who looked for redemption in Jerusalem and declaring that Jesus was the promised child. 

At all events, it appears that this widow was one of the first publishers of the Gospel of Christ, and it is likely that she traveled with it from house to house through the city of Jerusalem, where she knew they dwelt who were expecting the salvation of God. 

The Father answer one of her prayers, were present, when Joseph and Mary brought the child Jesus to the Temple to sacrifice on his behalf, according to the custom for firstborn male children. Anna thanked God for having given her the opportunity of seeing Jesus and spoke of him to all the people who came to Jerusalem seeking redemption. 

Could this be why many people were looking for the Messiah to come.  Laying the groundwork Jesus to come, just like John the Baptist.   

Luke wrote about Peter Sermon 

Acts 2:17 "'In the last days, God says, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your young men will see visions, your old men will dream dreams. 

This is what the church considers sermons, speaking under inspiration. 

Acts 2:18 In those days I will even pour out my Spirit on my servants, both men and women alike, and they will prophesy. 

The Holy Spirit being poured down upon both men and women alike, can-do inspired prophecy {telling others about our Lord Jesus or declaring the will of God} 

Acts 19:5-6 When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.  (6)  And when Paul had laid hands on them, the Holy Spirit came upon them, and they spoke with tongues and prophesied. 

Philip’s daughters are another example of prophetesses in the NT. 

About  25 years later. The last account of Acts 8:40, shows him preaching in the cities of the seacoast.  In one of these we find Philip living.

 Using the understanding of a prophet is, essentially, a spokesman for God, as chosen by Him. They are tasked with speaking to the people on God’s behalf, by sharing a message or even teaching. 

Acts 21:8-9 On the next day we who were Paul's companions departed and came to Caesarea, and entered the house of Philip the evangelist, who was one of the seven {original deacons}, and stayed with him.  (9)  Now this man had four virgin daughters who prophesied. 

The prophetic spirit in either the Old or New Testament is not confined to a single sex. We mention Deborah, Miriam and Huldah are Old Testament examples, and in the New Testament, Elisabeth, Mary, Anna, and the daughters of Philip are instances 

What about other women in the New Testament 

Acts 18:2-3 There he {Paul} found a Jew named Aquila, a native of Pontus, who had recently come from Italy with his wife Priscilla because Claudius had ordered all the Jews to leave Rome. Paul went to visit them, (3) and because they had the same trade he stayed with them. They worked together because they were tentmakers by trade. 

Who were Priscilla and Aquila were a first century Christian married couple described in the New Testament.   They lived, worked, and traveled with the Apostle Paul, who described them as his "fellow workers in Christ Jesus". 

Priscilla and Aquila are described in the New Testament as providing a presence that strengthened the early Christian churches. Paul was generous in his recognition and acknowledgment of his indebtedness to them. Together, they are credited with instructing Apollos, a major evangelist of the first century, and "[explaining] to him the way of God more accurately". 

They are mentioned six times in four different books of the New Testament and are around the Apostle Paul.  

Acts 18:18 After staying there for quite a while longer, Paul said goodbye to the brothers and sailed for Syria, accompanied by Priscilla and Aquila. He had his hair cut in Cenchrea, since he was under a vow. 

Paul had his hair cut as part of a Nazirite vow he had made (Num. 6). Such a vow had to be fulfilled in Jerusalem, where the hair would be presented to God. Vows were made either in gratitude for God’s blessing (like Paul’s safekeeping in Corinth) or as part of a petition for future blessing. 

The vow involved abstinence from drinking wine and a commitment not to cut one’s hair for a period of time. At the end of this set period, the hair was cut and then burned along with other sacrifices as a symbol of offering oneself to God (Act_21:23-26). Paul redirected his entire travel schedule because he wanted to get to Jerusalem in time to make this vow. 

Acts 18:19 When they arrived in Ephesus, he left Priscilla and Aquila there. Then he went into the synagogue and had a discussion with the Jews. 

Acts 18:24 Meanwhile, a Jew named Apollos arrived in Ephesus. He was a native of Alexandria, an eloquent man, and well versed in the Scriptures. 

Acts 18:25 He had been instructed in the Lord's way, and with spiritual fervor he kept speaking and teaching accurately about Jesus, although he knew only about John's baptism.          {About repentance} 

Did not know about the Holy Spirit and laying on hands 

Acts 18:26 He began to speak boldly in the synagogue, but when Priscilla and Aquila heard him, they took him home and explained God's way to him more accurately. 

Notice, women were in the synagogue, with the men 

Acts 18:28 He successfully refuted the Jews in public and proved by the Scriptures that Jesus is the Messiah. 

Learn this from a female prophesy 

1 Corinthians 11:4-5 Every man who prays or prophesies with his head covered dishonors his head.  (5)  But every woman who prays or prophesies with her head uncovered dishonors her head; it is the same as having her head shaved.

 So Apostle Paul says there are woman who prophecy. 

1 Corinthians 14:3 But the one who prophesies speaks to people for their strengthening, encouraging and comfort. 

Shows women can prophesies and did not she instruct Apollos. 

Romans 16:3-4 Greet Priscilla and Aquila, my co-workers in Christ Jesus.  (4)  They risked their lives for me. Not only I but all the churches of the Gentiles are grateful to them. 

This was written in 56 or 57, stating that they risked their lives for Paul

Churches are grateful to them. 

1 Corinthians 16:19 The churches in the province of Asia send you greetings. Aquila and Priscilla greet you warmly in the Lord, and so does the church that meets at their house. 

This indicates the couple were in Paul’s company, remember Paul founded the church in Corinth.  Greetings implies that Priscilla and Aquila were also involved in the founding of that church 

2 Timothy 4:19 Greet Priscilla and Aquila and the household of Onesiphorus.

 They must have been some couple in the New Testament. 

·      They were tentmakers as was Paul

·      They were among the Jews expelled from Rome by the Roman Emperor Claudius in the year 49 {what, around 18 years after Jesus resurrection)

·      Paul lived with Priscilla and Aquila for approximately 18 months in Corinth

·      started out to accompany Paul when he proceeded to Syria, but stopped at Ephesus  

Tradition reports that Aquila and Priscilla were martyred together 

Timothy grew up with Lois and Eunice, they are only mention here and taught and instructed Timothy. 

2 Timothy 1:5  I am reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also. 

What about Phoebe, a deaconess 

Romans 16:1-2 Now I commend to you our sister Phoebe, a deaconess in the church at Cenchrea.  (2)  Welcome her in the Lord as is appropriate for saints, and provide her with anything she may need from you, for she has assisted many people, including me. 

Of most of them we know nothing, save that he places women in the Paul writings to all remember forever.  Deacon, same word for men and women 

Romans 16:6 Greet Mary, who has worked very hard for you. 

Romans 16:7 Greet Andronicus and Junia, my fellow Jews who are in prison with me and are prominent among the apostles. They belonged to the Messiah before I did.    Husband and wife team 

Romans 16:12 Greet Tryphena and Tryphosa, those women who work hard in the Lord. Greet my dear friend Persis, another woman who has worked very hard in the Lord. 

Romans 16:13 Greet Rufus, chosen in the Lord, and his mother, who has been a mother to me, too. 

1 Corinthians 1:11 My brothers, some members of Chloe's family have made it clear to me that there are quarrels among you. 

Philippians 4:2-3 I urge Euodia and Syntyche to have the same attitude in the Lord.  (3)  Yes, I also ask you, my true partner, to help these women. They have worked hard with me to advance the gospel, along with Clement and the rest of my fellow workers, whose names are in the Book of Life.   {bore fruit through the faithfulness of these women} 

And finally 

Acts 16:13-15 On the Sabbath day we went out the city gate and walked along the river, where we thought there was a place of prayer. We sat down and began talking to the women who had gathered there.  (14)  A woman named Lydia, from the city of Thyatira, a dealer in purple goods, was listening to us. She was a worshiper of God, and the Lord opened her heart to listen carefully to what was being said by Paul.  (15)  When she and her family were baptized, she urged us, "If you are convinced that I am a believer in the Lord, come and stay at my home." And she continued to insist that we do so. 

Acts 16:40 Leaving the jail, Paul and Silas went to Lydia's house. They saw the brothers, encouraged them, and then left.