Bible Minute

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Apr 6, 2011
Topic: Christian Living/Situational
Run the Race

As the world reels under the impact of what some have called an "economic tsunami," one thing is pretty clear: Many corporate leaders made decisions based on greed rather than wisdom. They were lining their own pockets at the expense of everyone else.

So, it's only natural to wonder if considering rewards as a motive for service is not the same issue. Could it be a sign of greed or is it something the Bible approves of? Let's see what God's Word says.

What Does God Say?

"Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? So run that you may obtain it" (1 Corinthians 9:24, ESV).

    * What is the prize that Paul is talking about in this verse?
    * Paul compares the Christian life to a race. How are we to run it?
    * In light of the comparison Paul makes, what are some of the implications if you want to win the prize?

My Thoughts

If you answered the first question as "salvation," think again. Salvation is a gift (Ephesians 2:8-9), not something that we win by our own efforts. Instead, Paul is talking about rewards. And, instead of seeing it as a sign of greed, he actually urges us to do everything that we can to win them.

My Part

Consider today how you might be able to run the race better and win the prize. Take a sheet of paper and divide it down the middle. On one side, list some of the attitudes/activities that need to be cast off to run the race well (see Hebrews 12:1, Colossians 3:8 ). On the other side, list some of the attitudes/activities that you should put on (Colossians 3:12).

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Apr 7, 2011
Topic: Jesus, Pain/Suffering, Service/Servanthood, Heaven
The Reward of Praise

Sir Philip Sidney, a 16th century English statesman, said, "It is great happiness to be praised by them who are most praiseworthy."

Who is most worthy of all praise, honor and glory? Jesus, of course. So, whose praise would you most like to hear for your service? The answer should be Jesus'. In fact, when you stand before the Judgment Seat of Christ and hear Him say, "Well done," that will be a "great happiness" which lasts for all eternity.

What Does God Say?

In Matthew 25, Jesus told a parable about a master who entrusted his wealth to his servants while he was away. On his return, the servants were judged and rewarded. "His master said to him, 'Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master'" (Matthew 25:21, ESV).

Jesus will do the same with us. One day He will return to judge our service, and He will commend the faithful, fruitful work we've done. He'll reward us in a number of ways, but that personal praise will be worth it all.

The apostle Paul focused on this future praise in 1 Corinthians 4:4-5. "It is the Lord who judges me. Therefore do not pronounce judgment before the time, before the Lord comes, who will bring to light the things now hidden in darkness and will disclose the purposes of the heart. Then each one will receive his commendation from God" (ESV). This praise can be a great motivation for service.

On the other hand, if you do good things so that people here and now notice, you're working for the wrong praise. In Matthew 6:1-2, Jesus said, "Beware of practicing your righteousness before other people in order to be seen by them, for then you will have no reward from your Father who is in heaven. Thus, when you give to the needy, sound no trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may be praised by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward" (ESV).

If you're serving or living righteously so that everyone around you sees you and thinks you're the best Christian ever--if their praise is all you want, then that's all you'll get. And you will miss the more worthwhile praise of Christ.

My Thoughts

These passages offer further insight into our motivation for praise and service.

1 Thessalonians 2:4-6

    * What was the service done here?
    * What motivated them to speak?
    * What was not part of their service or motivation?

Colossians 3:23-24

    * Who is the focus of your service?
    * How should you do the work (attitude)?
    * Where does the reward come from?

1 Peter 1:6-7

    * What will result in praise, honor and glory?
    * How does this help you view or deal with present-day troubles?

In Matthew 25:21, the Master praises the "good and faithful servant."

    * "Good" means what is acceptable, excellent, what has integrity, quality or a moral uprightness. What do you think Jesus sees as "good" in your life today?
    * "Faithful" can also include being consistent, persistent, committed, unwavering, believing, trusting and obedient. How do you think Jesus would view your faithfulness today?

My Part

So, whose praise are you working for today? There's nothing wrong with graciously accepting praise from someone who recognizes or appreciates your service or your example. Just check your motivation. Did you do it expecting people to praise you? Are you hoping everyone notices how good your spiritual example is? Are you disappointed or even angry when your service isn't recognized?

In his book, Facing Your Final Job Review, Woodrow Kroll writes "How much a commendation by our Lord means to us after the judgment seat will depend on how much we love and respect Him." We put more stock in praise from those we love and respect. So, are you content to settle for the temporary praise of the people around you? Or does your love for Christ compel you to desire and work for His perfect and eternal praise?

(Facing Your Final Job Review, p. 161)

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Apr 8, 2011
Topic: Christian Living/Situational
The Wonder of Heaven

There was a time in my life when I had an "amusement park" mentality when it came to heaven. I looked forward to the mansions, the streets of gold, meeting famous historical figures and so on. Jesus was there, of course. But in the amusement park mentality, He never amounted to more than the guy at the ticket booth granting admission to the wonders of heaven.

But now that I'm older and I've spent more time in the Bible, I realize this: Jesus is the Wonder of heaven.

What Does God Say?

In Revelation 22 we have John's vision of heaven. "No longer will there be anything accursed, but the throne of God and of the Lamb will be in it, and his servants will worship him. They will see his face, and his name will be on their foreheads. And night will be no more. They will need no light of lamp or sun, for the Lord God will be their light, and they will reign forever and ever" (22:3-5, ESV).

We will be in a place where there will be no more evil, where all manipulators, deceivers and exploiters have been shut out forever, where we no longer have to be afraid of darkness in the lives of others (or ourselves), where all the fears and uncertainties of life will be obliterated by the perfect, always present love of God.

Mansions and rewards will be nice, but the real Wonder of heaven is the God who made it all possible. The more I think about it, I don't think I'll have any problem casting my rewards at the feet of my Savior and praising Him forever.

My Thoughts

As you read Revelation 22:1-21, think about the following questions:

1. What did the angel show John in this passage?
2. What is the angel's response when John turns to worship him?
3. Who does this passage say are "blessed"?
4. Who did the angel tell John to worship?
5. What encouragement does Jesus give us as we wait for His return?

My Part

Have you ever heard the phrase "heaven on earth"? If heaven were only streets of gold and crowns of glory, it would be impossible to experience any of that today. But part of heaven will be praising and worshiping our Creator. And you and I can praise and worship God right now. It doesn't matter where you are--Paul and Silas were in prison when they sang praises to God. Make it a point today to experience just a little bit of heaven by praising Jesus.

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Apr 11, 2011
Topic: Service/Servanthood, Heaven
Crown of Victory; Race of Life

During the Olympic Games, we see gold, silver and bronze medals hanging on ribbons around the necks of athletes who accomplished their goal. All that training, time, energy and money was invested over a period of years just so these young men or women could get a piece of metal.

And it's true, those medals will last a long time...but not forever. They can be stolen or lost; the ribbons will one day disintegrate and the moment of glory will be long gone. It's a fleeting honor.

What Does God Say?

However, the Bible says there is a medal--a crown--that lasts forever. And to get this reward, you must run a race, not in the Olympics but in life. Paul talks about this race and the crown we can earn in 1 Corinthians 9:24-27, "Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? So run that you may obtain it. Every athlete exercises self-control in all things. They do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable. So I do not run aimlessly; I do not box as one beating the air. But I discipline my body and keep it under control, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified" (ESV).

God has a crown of victory for every Christian who runs the race of life well. It's His eternal reward for faithfulness, for enduring hardships, for keeping on when it's rough, for treating this race as a marathon and not a sprint.

It takes commitment and the understanding that a few "wins" or spiritual victories doesn't mean you can coast through the rest of your life. Writing to Timothy, Paul urged commitment and determination to see the race through, no matter how much it hurts, how severely you are tempted to get sidetracked by other things or how much you want to change the rules. "Share in suffering as a good soldier of Christ Jesus. No soldier gets entangled in civilian pursuits, since his aim is to please the one who enlisted him. An athlete is not crowned unless he competes according to the rules" (2 Timothy 2:3-5, ESV).

My Thoughts

So, how do you receive the crown of victory? The Bible tells you. Read 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 again and answer the following questions:

    * What does the spiritual athlete need to exercise?
    * What is our goal?
    * What are we not to do?
    * What are the keys to successful training?
    * When have you "run aimlessly" or "beat the air"?
    * What requires discipline and self-control in your life?

Go back to 2 Timothy 2:3-5.

    * What is the aim of the soldier or athlete?
    * What gets him off course?
    * What are some things in your life that "entangle" you?
    * What do you think some of the "rules" may be?

The Bible uses words like faithfulness and perseverance to show you how to run the race. Use a concordance and do your own word study to see how you can run for victory.

My Part

No Olympian just shows up on the day of the games to compete. What you see on the track or in the pool is the result of years of training and competing. In the race of life, you can't just "show up," but you need to train...and race every day of your life. God has provided you with a coach--the Holy Spirit--and His training manual, the Bible.

As you read the Bible, ask the Holy Spirit to show you where you need self-control, added discipline in your training or a renewed focus or goal for the race. Look for instructions on what pleases the Lord and what He expects to see in your life. Take your training seriously; it's the key to staying the course and winning the crown. Use Hebrews 12:1-2 as a daily reminder of the race and the goal.

Commit your life today to running in a way that pleases the Lord, so that you, like Paul, can one day say: "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith" (2 Timothy 4:7, ESV).

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Apr 12, 2011
Topic: Service/Servanthood, Evangelism
Crown of Boasting

Have you ever heard someone say: "He's so heavenly minded, He's no earthly good"? It means that someone is so focused on spiritual things that he or she doesn't get anything practical done and sometimes doesn't even remember the everyday details of life. But when it comes to the heavenly reward of crowns, there's no way to be too focused, especially when it comes to one particular crown. That crown is often called the "soul-winner's crown" or the "crown of boasting." Paul talked about it in 1 Thessalonians.

What Does God Say?

"After all, what gives us hope and joy, and what will be our proud reward and crown as we stand before our Lord Jesus when he returns? It is you!" (1 Thessalonians 2:19, NLT).

Others places in the Bible speak glowingly about the work represented by this crown:

"Let him know that whoever brings back a sinner from his wandering will save his soul from death and will cover a multitude of sins (James 5:20, ESV).

"Those who are wise will shine as bright as the sky, and those who lead many to righteousness will shine like the stars forever" (Daniel 12:3, NLT).

"They passed on to the people the truth of the instructions they received from me. They did not lie or cheat; they walked with me, living good and righteous lives, and they turned many from lives of sin" (Malachi 2:6, NLT).

    * There are three promises in the above verses. What are they?
    * Who can earn this crown?
    * How can it be earned?
    * Which promise appeals most to you?

My Thoughts

Everyone who knows the Lord has a message to share. Are you committed to receiving this "soul-winner's crown" or "crown of boasting"--a crown that is going to allow you to boast about what God has done through you to take the message of the Gospel to other people? You can earn this crown if you will seek opportunities to share your faith with other people. Paul tells us that's what he did.

"To the Jews I became as a Jew, in order to win Jews. To those under the law I became as one under the law (though not being myself under the law) that I might win those under the law. To those outside the law I became as one outside the law (not being outside the law of God but under the law of Christ) that I might win those outside the law. To the weak I became weak, that I might win the weak. I have become all things to all people, that by all means I might save some. I do it all for the sake of the gospel, that I may share with them in its blessings" (1 Corinthians 9:20-23, ESV).

My Part

Witnessing isn't all that difficult; all we have to do is tell our story. But some people are better at it than others, have you noticed that? Make a commitment today that you will one day receive this crown--becoming so heavenly minded that you do the greatest good that can be done on earth--winning others to Christ.

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Apr 13, 2011
Topic: Second Coming/Rapture/End Times
The "Waiter's" Crown

A friend often talks about the coming of Christ--and he nearly always ends his thoughts by exclaiming, "I can hardly wait!" There reward is laid up in heaven for those who are eagerly looking for Jesus' coming. It's called the "crown of righteousness."

Although all true Christians are given the free gift of righteousness in Christ from the moment they trust Him as Savior (see Romans 8:10; 2 Corinthians 5:21), not every Christian is going to earn the "crown of righteousness" reward. Why? Let's see what the Bible says.

What Does God Say?

In 2 Timothy4:8 (ESV) Paul writes, "Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that Day, and not only to me but also to all who have loved his appearing."

In http://www.backtothebibleinternational.org/david.htm (ESV), Jesus told His disciples, "Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." There is a "laying up" process in the Christian life whereby you earn great blessings to be revealed and awarded in the future.

The crown of righteousness is one of those treasures, or rewards, that is laid up in heaven for the believer who holds the things of this world lightly, while living daily by the grace of God in watchful anticipation of the Lord's coming. At His judgment seat, Christ will give it to the believer (see1 Corinthians 3:13). Paul calls it "that Day" in 2 Timothy4:8.

Read Colossians 1:3-5. Paul thanked God for the faith of the Christians in Colossae and for their love for all believers. What do you see that was "laid up" for them that encouraged them to be the faithful, loving Christians they were?

My Thoughts

The letters of Paul often speak of the Christian's hope.

    * What kind of hope do unbelievers have according to Ephesians 2:12?
    * How many occurrences of the word "hope" can you find in Romans 5:1-5?

Part of the Christian's hope is the return or appearing of the Lord Jesus Christ. What is the "hope" in Titus 2:11-14 called? To what event does it refer?

My Part

Have you set your mind and heart on Christ's return? Is it just a passing thought now and then? Is it something you feel is irrelevant and unimportant?

As you examine your own life, do you detect any changes you should make, any practices you need to begin in order to be earning the Lord's crown of righteousness reward? Do you love His appearing?

William Barclay noted, "The best way to prepare for the coming of Christ is never to forget the presence of Christ." (You Can Say That Again, Christianity Today, Vol. 39, no.8.)

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Apr 14, 2011
Topic: Service/Servanthood
The Shepherd's Reward

Ron Klassen, Director of the Rural Home Missionary Association says, "People can be divided into roughly two types: stars and servants. The stars are the ones who capture attention. The servants work for a lifetime in obscurity. They work in inner-city churches. They are small-town pastors ministering quietly. Servants don't need spotlight or recognition from others. They are working for the Lord. They are not zeros in small churches; they are servants of a great God."

One of God's eternal rewards is reserved for His servants who have ministered faithfully. It is called the "crown of glory" and is mentioned by Peter in 1 Peter 5:1-4. We'll look at that in a moment.

What Does God Say?

Take a piece of paper; draw a line down the center from top to bottom; then read the instructions the apostle Paul gave to Timothy in 1 Timothy 3:1-7 (ESV) about the necessary qualities of a pastor. On the left side of your paper, list the traits he should have and on the right, those he should not have.

"The saying is trustworthy: If anyone aspires to the office of overseer, he desires a noble task. Therefore an overseer must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, sober-minded, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, not a drunkard, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money. He must manage his own household well, with all dignity keeping his children submissive, for if someone does not know how to manage his own household, how will he care for God's church? He must not be a recent convert, or he may become puffed up with conceit and fall into the condemnation of the devil. Moreover, he must be well thought of by outsiders, so that he may not fall into disgrace, into a snare of the devil."

Now, read the following passage:

1 Peter 5:1-4 (ESV). "So I exhort the elders among you, as a fellow elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, as well as a partaker in the glory that is going to be revealed : shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not for shameful gain, but eagerly; not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock. And when the chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory."

Note that Peter describes himself as a "partaker in the glory that is going to be revealed" at the coming of Christ. He says that a faithful pastor's work will be rewarded with the unfading crown of glory.

Now re-read 1 Peter 5:1-4. Take your paper with the columns, and in the left column write down the tasks you find that a church leader is to do; and in the right, the things that he is not to do. When you are done, review your lists in both columns. It will reveal many of the prayer needs that your pastor has.

My Thoughts

You may never personally be a shepherd, an elder or a pastor of God's flock, but there are some special ways for you to share the joy of their "crown of glory" reward. As a believer, you have significant responsibilities to those whom God has called to minister the Word of God, just as they have responsibilities to you.

Read over at the following Scriptures and write down the duties you see that you and other Christians have as followers of God's servants.

    * Romans 15:30-31 and 1 Thessalonians 5:25
    * Romans 12:10 and Philippians 2:29 (In the context of Philippians 2:25-30)
    * 1 Timothy 5:17-18
    * Hebrews 13:17

My Part

No one needs God's protection more than your church leaders. Take time now to consider their needs and pray for them. Make it a daily part of your devotional life. You will share in their rewards.

"Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving. At the same time, pray also for us, that God may open to us a door for the word, to declare the mystery of Christ, on account of which I am in prison--that I may make it clear, which is how I ought to speak" (Colossians 4:2-4, ESV).

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Apr 15, 2011
Topic: Service/Servanthood
Crown of Life

Our life on earth is precious but fragile. We could hardly blame anyone for "playing it safe." It seems almost natural to seek the good experiences while minimizing the bad. But the Christian life is anything but safe.

What Does God Say?

Paul, in his second letter to Timothy reminded him, "Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted" (3:12, ESV). In reassuring His disciples, Jesus took it as a given that His followers would be persecuted, "I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world" (John 16:33, ESV).

But I find comfort when I read Jesus' words in Matthew 5. He knew that those who put their faith in Him would face a difficult life, and so He stated several blessings for those who earnestly seek to honor God. The last of these Beatitudes is, "Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you" (11-12, ESV).

In the Book of James we get an idea of what this great reward will be: "Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him" (1:12, ESV).

The "crown of life" is also known as the "sufferer's crown," or the "martyr's crown." Probably none of us aspire to earn this crown and yet some of us will, not because we sought out suffering or persecution but because we said, "Come what may, I'm going to glorify God with my life here on earth."

My Thoughts

As you read the verses presented in this study, think about the following questions:

    * Many of the apostles experienced persecution. Can you remember specific trials they had to endure?
    * The world is a lot different than it was 2,000 years ago. In what ways is the persecution we face today different, and in what ways is it the same?
    * In what forms have you faced persecution? Do you find Jesus' promise of a "crown of life" encouraging?

My Part

In the midst of contemplating the times of persecution we may be up against as believers, never forget the words of encouragement Jesus had for His disciples. Look for them in the verses above. Now, make a list. Take time to read your list every day for the next week. Pray for Christians who may be facing persecution right now.

[nChrist]

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Apr 18, 2011
Topic: Love
God's Love Is Timeless

What comes to mind when you hear the word timeless? In my own mind I associate the word with great works of art. Something that is timeless has such universal appeal that it's valued in all times and in all places. The paintings of Da Vinci, the symphonies of Tchaikovsky, the works of Shakespeare--all are hundreds of years old but all are still treasured by many people.

The Bible is another one of those timeless treasures. That's because it is ultimately the story of the timeless love of God. Let's take a look.

What Does God Say?

If you saw the movie The Passion of the Christ, you know (perhaps better than many in the last several centuries) how brutal and terrible the cross of Christ was. It was a savage way to die; and yet, according to John, the very picture of love. Why?

The Bible tells us what it means by love. In 1 John 3:16 we find one of the greatest definitions of love ever given. "By this we know love, that he laid down his life for us, and we ought to lay down our lives for the brothers" (ESV).

The greatest acts of love are demonstrated in the greatest acts of self-sacrifice. Jesus didn't end up on the cross by accident. He didn't slip up one day in Jerusalem. From the beginning, Jesus' sacrificial death was part of the plan (Revelation 13:8 ). God knew that only through the substitutionary death of Jesus could we ever have a relationship with Him again.

You and I today can experience that renewed relationship with God because of the sacrifice of Jesus. We can experience that true love when we come to Christ. It's a love that is as timeless as God Himself.

My Thoughts

As you read through 1 John 3:16 again, think about the following questions:

1. How does this definition of love differ from other popular definitions of love?

2. How can we demonstrate this example of love in our lives?

My Part

John says, "and we ought to lay down our lives for the brothers" (1 John 3:16, ESV). Now, we can read this as "we ought to die for each other"; but the much more practical way of reading it is, "we ought to serve each other." Think about it: When you choose to fulfill someone else's needs, you are in effect laying down your life. Ask God to show you some ways today you can lay down your life for others. Pray that as you do they will see the timeless love of God in your actions.

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Apr 19, 2011
Topic: Salvation
The Big Picture

Have you seen those puzzles where a photographer takes a close-up of just a portion of an object? The viewer is then challenged to guess what the whole object might be. The answer can baffle you until you're shown the complete picture.

Sometimes events happen in our lives that also leave us baffled. We wonder why God allowed us to develop cancer, lose a loved one or run out of money. We question whether He even loves us when we go through such painful experiences.

But just like one of those puzzle pictures, we're only seeing a small part of the whole thing. Let's see what God's Word says about the big picture.

What Does God Say?

"Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing" (James 1:2-4, ESV).

    * How are we to respond to trials?
    * What is the first thing that trials produce?
    * What is God's ultimate goal, for you, in these experiences?

My Thoughts

The word "joy" means "to have a calm and peaceful heart no matter what the circumstances." The ability to have joy in the face of trials hinges on our conviction of two essential truths 1) God is in control of everything (including our lives) and 2) God loves us more than we can grasp. When we truly believe those two truths, we're able to look beyond the pain of the moment and see the big picture; we can have confidence that God has a bigger purpose in mind for us. The apostle James says that it is to bring us to a point in our lives spiritually where we are "lacking in nothing."

    * What, in your spiritual life, might you be lacking?
    * Would you be willing to allow God to bring trials into your life to strengthen you in this area? (Before you answer too quickly, think about the implications of your response.)

My Part

You may be one of those people who really are not conscious of any weak areas in your spiritual life. If so, pray the prayer of David in Psalm 139:23-24,

Search me, O God, and know my heart!
Try me and know my thoughts!
And see if there be any grievous way in me,
and lead me in the way everlasting! (ESV).

If you have been experiencing trials, take a moment to think about the way these experiences have impacted your spiritual life. Jot down the differences you see in your spiritual life before your trials and after them. Share those differences with someone else who is going through difficulties.

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Apr 20, 2011
Topic: Love
Unfailing Love

Ernest Hemingway wrote a story about a father and his teenage son. In the story, the relationship had become strained, and the teenage son ran away from home. His father began a journey in search of the rebellious boy. Finally, in Madrid, Spain, in a last-ditch attempt to find the boy, the father put an ad in the local newspaper. The ad read: "Dear Paco, Meet me in front of the newspaper office at noon. All is forgiven. I love you. Your father." The next day, in front of the newspaper office, 800 Pacos showed up.

That's the kind of love God has for you and me. Let's see how the Bible describes it.

What Does God Say?

"For while we were still weak, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly. For one will scarcely die for a righteous person--though perhaps for a good person one would dare even to die--but God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Since, therefore, we have now been justified by his blood, much more shall we be saved by him from the wrath of God (Romans 5:6-9, ESV)

    * What did God do to show His love?
    * How does Paul describe our condition at that time?
    * What happens, ultimately, if we reject God's love through Christ?

My Thoughts

Are you a "Paco"? Have you rebelled and turned away from God? The good news is that God still loves you; He still wants you to be a part of His family. No matter what you have done, God says, "In Christ, all is forgiven. I love you. Meet me."

My Part

If you're ready to meet God, to come home to a father who still loves you, click here. Learn how you can find God's unfailing love.

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Apr 21, 2011
Topic: Salvation
Behold the Lamb

A stone lamb that stands on top of a small church in Germany has an interesting history. When workers were building the roof, one of the crew members fell off. The other workers quickly went down to the ground expecting to find their co-worker dead. But he was unhurt. A lamb that had been grazing below was crushed to death when the falling crewman fell on it. A co-worker of the "surprisingly unhurt" man was so moved that he made a stone image of the lamb and placed it on top of the church as a memorial.

If you are a believer in Christ, you also owe your life to a Lamb--the Lamb of God--who takes away the sin of the world (See John 1:29).

What Does God Say?

Let's go back to the Old Testament to see something about sacrifices.

Although Israel's sacrifices to the Lord had several variations, purposes and requirements, there are some similar characteristics in many of them. Read Leviticus 1:1-5, which describes the burnt offering, and notice the following procedures:

    * The sacrificial animal must be a male without blemish, chosen from the herd or the flock (1:2-3).
    * The offering must be acceptable before the Lord (1:3).
    * The person presenting the offering must lay his hand upon the head of the animal to show that he is making the animal his substitute, acceptable as a covering or atonement, for his sins (1:4).
    * The sacrifice must then be killed before the Lord, and its blood must be shed (1:5).

God says, "Without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness" (Hebrews 9:22, NIV). (See Leviticus 17:11.)

The Old Testament sacrifices provided only temporary relief for the sinner (Hebrews 10:3-4, 11). It covered the sin, but it didn't take it away. Christ's offering on the cross for the sins of mankind, however, was an eternally sufficient sacrifice that actually removed sin. Read Hebrews 9:12.

My Thoughts

Here is great and good personal news for you. Paul says this about the Lord Jesus Christ in 2 Corinthians 5:21 (ESV): "For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God."

That means Christ became your sin offering, took your sin on Himself, went to the cross and shed His blood to forgive you for your sin, paid your debt and provided the only possible way in the world that you could be made permanently acceptable to God.

Read the following scriptures and record what you see about Christ's death for you on the cross.

    * Galatians 3:13
    * 1 John 3:5
    * 1 Corinthians 1:30
    * Romans 8:3
    * Romans 4:24-25

My Part

Christians celebrate the Resurrection of Christ, their Savior, year around. But this is a season of the year that helps you to focus your attention on the cross, the empty tomb and the living Lord.

Today, read and reflect on the account of the death and Resurrection of Jesus as recorded in John 19 and 20.

Acts 4:12 (ESV) is a good verse to memorize and keep in your heart:

"And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved."

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Apr 22, 2011
Topic: Salvation
More than Atonement

You might be asking yourself, How can I know what "more than atonement" (the subject of today's study) means when I don't know what "atonement" means? Well, its meaning has little to do with how you say it. Although, the emphasis is on the second syllable, the word has nothing to do with singing or playing by ear. Used 69 times in the Old Testament and once in the New Testament, "atonement" has a very deep meaning.

What Does God Say?

Look at the following two Old Testament verses that address atonement:

"The priest is to make atonement before the LORD for the one who erred by sinning unintentionally, and when atonement has been made for him, he will be forgiven (Numbers 15:28, NIV).

"For the life of a creature is in the blood, and I have given it to you to make atonement for yourselves on the altar; it is the blood that makes atonement for one's life (Leviticus 17:11, NIV).

Now, do your own study of the Old Testament meaning of "atonement" by answering the following questions:

1. Go to the Web address: http://bible.crosswalk.com/Lexicons/ and click on "Old Testament Hebrew." Now, enter "atonement" in the space provided, and click on "Search." Look at the entries there (click on the word) and write down the meanings for the Old Testament (Hebrew) word for "atonement."

2. How does the meaning of "atonement" in Hebrew relate to the "sacrificial system" instituted by Moses?

3. What were the animal sacrifices meant to accomplish?

4. What did the animal sacrifices point to?

Let's go now to the New Testament and discover how "atonement" is used there:

"But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.

"Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him.

"For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life.

"And not only so, but we also joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the atonement (Romans 5:8-11, KJV).

1. Go to the same Web address and click on "New Testament Greek." Type "atonement" into the area provided and click on "Enter." Once again, write out the definition (Greek definition) of "atonement."

2. What difference do you find between the Hebrew and Greek meanings?

My Thoughts

The word "atonement" was coined by Tyndale (a Protestant who translated the Bible into English) to convey the idea that God reconciled man to Himself through Christ. Tyndale used the three words "at"+"one"+"ment" to get that meaning across.

Read the following verses and write your own definition of "atonement" keeping in mind that it was derived from the word "reconciliation."

"For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life (Romans 5:10, KJV).

"For he himself is our peace, who has made us both one and has broken down in his flesh the dividing wall of hostility by abolishing the law of commandments expressed in ordinances, that he might create in himself one new man in place of the two, so making peace, and might reconcile us both to God in one body through the cross, thereby killing the hostility" (Ephesians 2:14-16, ESV).

"For God was pleased to have all his fullness dwell in him [Christ], and through him [Christ] to reconcile to himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven, by making peace through his blood, shed on the cross" (Colossians 1:19-20, NIV).

My Part

Take time to pray and praise giving thanks to God for all Christ gave to atone for your sins. Marvel at the love He has for you that caused Him to do that for you.

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Apr 25, 2011
Topic: Prayer
Like Breathing

How often do you get up in the morning, take one deep breath and say, 'That's all the breathing I need for today'? You wouldn't make it if you tried. Yet we often do that with prayer.

We send up one quick breath of prayer and call it good for the day...or week...or longer. Once we've gone a few days like that, we think we can get by without it; we fail to see it as necessary. But prayer is contact with God, a key to becoming intimate with Him.

What Does God Say?

You wouldn't think much of a friend who never talked to you. Your friendship wouldn't grow any deeper. Prayer is the way we talk to God. And He wants us to talk to Him. That's why there are so many instructions on how to pray and what to pray about.

Jesus taught us:'Pray then like this:

'Our Father in heaven,
hallowed be your name.
Your kingdom come,
your will be done,
on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread,
and forgive us our debts,
as we also have forgiven our debtors.
And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil' (Matthew 6:9-13, ESV).

This isn't the only prayer you can use, and you can talk to God about more than this. But it gives us a framework. We see that God wants a close relationship with us; in fact, He wants us to call Him Father. We learn about Him and what's important to Him (His name, His kingdom, His will); that He wants us to ask for what we need (daily bread). We learn how we should relate to others (forgiving, being forgiven) and that His desire is to help us daily (deliverance from evil, guard against temptation).

In 1 Thessalonians 5, we're told: 'Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you' (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, ESV ). It's what God wants, what He wills for us--to rejoice, to pray, to give thanks. These three are tied together, and they should be as natural as breathing.

My Thoughts

David, the king and psalmist, saw prayer or conversation with God as necessary in his life. You can read many of his prayers in 1 & 2 Samuel and in Psalms. Let's look at a few:

Psalm 17:1-12
Psalm 18:1-3
Psalm 25:1-10
Psalm 36:5-12
Psalm 42
Psalm 51

    * What are some of the things David talked about with God?
    * What do you see that fits with the Matthew 6 prayer?
    * Which of these things do you take to God when you pray? What's missing?
    * How do you think conversations like these could deepen your intimacy with God?

My Part

When we do pray, it's often a list of requests and needs. Then, when we don't get what we want, we say prayer doesn't work. Instead of focusing on getting your requests answered, try prayer as conversation. Jot down about three or four things you'd talk about with a friend--things that are important, that excite you, that have you struggling to understand, people you're concerned about, etc. Use these to start your next conversation with God, to build intimacy, to be open and transparent before Him, to look for His will and not your wants.

If prayer hasn't been part of your daily 'breathing,' plan for tomorrow. Pick three times in your day when you're likely to have about 2-3 minutes. Set an appointment, a sticky note, an alarm on your phone, etc. When that time comes tomorrow, talk to God about one thing from the list you just created. Do the same for the next day or plan for several days. These are small steps, but they'll help you see prayer as necessary for your life.

Additional Scripture: 1 & 2 Samuel

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

Distributed Freely by Back To The Bible
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Daily Bible Study

Date: Apr 26, 2011
Topic: Prayer
Will God Really Answer?

Let me tell you about the first time God showed me plainly that He answers prayer. I was just a few months along on my journey in the Christian life, a poverty-stricken 17-year-old, trying desperately to work my way through college. Shortly into my first semester, I encountered an unexpected predicament. The college required a sports jacket, slacks and tie for some of the events I had to attend regularly. For five dollars, I managed to buy a "pre-owned" sports coat; but, unfortunately, neither of the two pairs of slacks I had came close to matching the jacket ("matching" was important in those days).

I had no way to buy a pair of slacks, but I didn't mention the need to anyone, except the Lord. "Father," I prayed, "You know how badly I need a pair of slacks. I don't have any money to buy them. I pray that you will somehow provide them. And, Father, I really need brown ones. Amen." I left it there with God.

Early the next week, a package came from a faraway person who had no clue about my request. Inside, I found a note. It simply said: "I'm sending you a pair of slacks. I don't know what you need, but I thought you might like some brown ones." I instantly knew those slacks were from the Lord. He has answered prayers innumerable times since, but you can see why I've never forgotten that first time.

God is good and righteous. He cannot lie. He doesn't tell you to pray and then turn His back on your prayers. He doesn't say He will answer and then go back on His promise. But He does have guidelines you need to be aware of, and He has some things to say about how and when you may expect your prayers to be answered.

What Does God Say?

"And this is the confidence that we have toward him, that if we ask anything according to his will he hears us. And if we know that he hears us in whatever we ask, we know that we have the requests that we have asked of him" (1 John 5:14-15, ESV).

    * In 1 John 5:14-15, what is the condition God requires for answering your request?
    * If He hears you, what is the promise He makes?

"And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him" (Hebrews 11:6, ESV).

    * What quality does Hebrews 11:6 say you need in order to please God?
    * What two truths about God must you believe?

Read the following Scripture passages and write down your answers to the questions.

    * John 16:23-24 . How many times do you find forms of the verb "ask" in these verses? What condition does Jesus give for asking? What two results come from asking properly?
    * 1 Peter 3:12 . Whose prayers does this verse say the Lord hears? Whose does He not hear?
    * Name the attitudes that will block your prayers, as mentioned in these three verses: Psalm 66:18, James 1:6 and James 4:3.

My Thoughts

Prayer is communication with God. It's a two-way conversation. He has spoken to you in His Word, the Bible, and He has given you the privilege and responsibility to talk with Him in prayer. Just as good human-to-human communication requires open relationships, an effective prayer life depends on your keeping the line open. The Lord always has His ear tuned to your prayers, but He requires that you come to Him in humility (Luke 18:9-14), belief (Matthew 21:21-22) and expectancy (Luke 11:9).

My Part

There's no better time than now for you to start a prayer journal. List the needs you have today and the people you want to pray for specifically and regularly. As time goes on and you see God work, be sure to note His answer and the date. If your list is too long and your time limited, don't try to pray for every need or every person every day. Instead, pray for certain requests on certain days of the week or month. Make your prayer calendar or prayer journal work best for you personally. But pray!

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:6-7, ESV).