Bible Minute

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Feb 18, 2009
Topic: Faith/Trust


Wind and Waves

Here's an astounding statistic: By the year 2020, depression will be the second largest killer--right after heart disease. The number of people (even children) who are sad, constantly in tears and feel they can't face another day is increasing. To them the world seems an unfair and scary place. They don't want to keep struggling day after day. Fifteen percent will take their own lives.

You may be facing circumstances that have you discouraged or make you feel disillusioned with life. Oftentimes we, even Christians, allow our circumstances to impact our faith. We take our focus off the Lord and put it on our own situation.

The apostle Peter did the same thing on one specific occasion recorded in the Book of Matthew. Let's see what happened to him.

What Does God Say?

Read this passage from Matthew 14:22-33 (ESV) and answer the following questions:

"Immediately he made the disciples get into the boat and go before him to the other side, while he dismissed the crowds. And after he had dismissed the crowds, he went up on the mountain by himself to pray. When evening came, he was there alone, but the boat by this time was a long way from the land, beaten by the waves, for the wind was against them. And in the fourth watch of the night he came to them, walking on the sea. But when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were terrified, and said, 'It is a ghost!' and they cried out in fear. But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, 'Take heart; it is I. Do not be afraid.'

"And Peter answered him, 'Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water.' He said, 'Come.' So Peter got out of the boat and walked on the water and came to Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid, and beginning to sink he cried out, 'Lord, save me.' Jesus immediately reached out his hand and took hold of him, saying to him, 'O you of little faith, why did you doubt?' And when they got into the boat, the wind ceased. And those in the boat worshiped him, saying, 'Truly you are the Son of God.'"

1. Where was Jesus when the disciples and the boat departed for the other side of the lake?

2. When the disciples saw Jesus walking toward them on the waves, what did they think?

3. What was Jesus' response to their thoughts?

4. When he heard Jesus' voice, how did Peter react?

5. What caused Peter to become afraid as he walked towards Jesus?

6. When Peter suddenly became afraid, what did he begin to do?

7. How did Jesus help Peter?

8. Why did those in the boat say to Jesus, "Truly you are the Son of God"?

My Thoughts

Like Peter you might be facing "winds and waves" that have weakened your faith. Today, many are facing foreclosures, diminishing 401K plans, job losses--all kinds of circumstances that cause fear and uncertainty. Where is God, might be the cry of your heart. Hebrews 13:5 promises that God "will never leave you nor forsake you." That doesn't mean, however, things will always turn out the way you'd like. Sometimes we're required to cling to our faith even while we endure difficulties and trials.

In Hebrews 11, you can read about those who kept their faith--even in distressing circumstances. Hebrews 11:33,36-39 tells us,

"Through faith ... others suffered mocking and flogging, and even chains and imprisonment. They were stoned, they were sawn in two, they were killed with the sword. They went about in skins of sheep and goats, destitute, afflicted, mistreated--of whom the world was not worthy--wandering about in deserts and mountains, and in dens and caves of the earth.

 "And all these, though commended through their faith, did not receive what was promised, since God had provided something better for us, that apart from us they should not be made perfect."

    * What kinds of "winds and waves" are you facing?
    * How do you keep your eyes on Jesus, no matter what the circumstances?
    * How does your faith help you whatever happens?

My Part

Rejoice in the knowledge that if you love Jesus, your future includes heaven, and that while you may struggle here and now at times, Jesus is always with you. Rejoice that this life is just the blink of an eye compared to eternity. But keep that eye on Jesus rather than on whatever difficulties are causing your boat to rock furiously.

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Feb 19, 2009
Topic: Pain/Suffering, Hope, God's Care, Doubt/Fear, Heaven, Joy


When It's All Bad News

I have good news and bad news for all Christ-followers. First the bad news: God never promises anywhere in Scripture that His children are exempt from the trials and problems of life.

What's the good news? God is always faithful--in all circumstances and situations. That's more than good news; that's the greatest news!

What Does God Say?

Your unfailing love, O LORD, is as vast as the heavens;
your faithfulness reaches beyond the clouds.
Your righteousness is like the mighty mountains,
your justice like the ocean depths.
You care for people and animals alike, O LORD ( Psalm 36:5-6, NLT) .

    * List the ways the psalmist counts on God.
    * What is true about God's love?
    * What does the psalmist compare God's righteousness to?
    * What emotions permeate your heart as you read this psalm?

Sometimes circumstances cause us to doubt God's presence and help. Our faith wavers when we realize that Christians, lose their jobs, get cancer, go bankrupt, have trouble with their children, have automobile accidents, get divorced and go through other trials.

It is in the midst of such dark times that the light of God's presence and care shines the brightest. We discover anew that God is faithful. Here is a wonderful affirmation:

God is our refuge and strength,
always ready to help in times of trouble.
So we will not fear when earthquakes come
and the mountains crumble into the sea.
Let the oceans roar and foam.
Let the mountains tremble as the waters surge! ( Psalm 46:1-3, NLT).

My Thoughts

When the skies are dark and the storm clouds come, and we are overwhelmed with what is happening, what then?

   1. Our first response is always prayer--go before God and pour out your heart asking for His strength and help.
   2. Our second response is to realize that no matter how traumatic the situation, it's only for the moment, and eternity with Jesus awaits us.
   3. Our third response is to remember that what really matters is not what happens to us, but what happens in us. And we can choose whether trials will make us bitter or better.

Here is what the psalmist learned when it was all bad news.

"Trust in Him at all times, O people;
Pour out your heart before Him;
God is a refuge for us" (Psalm 62:8, NASB).

Read the following scriptures to learn the nature and benefit of trouble.

"For our present troubles are small and won't last very long. Yet they produce for us a glory that vastly outweighs them and will last forever! So we don't look at the troubles we can see now; rather, we fix our gaze on things that cannot be seen. For the things we see now will soon be gone, but the things we cannot see will last forever" ( 2 Corinthians 4:17-18, NLT).

"Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing ( James 1:2-4, NLT).

   1. How does Paul describe the troubles you have today?
   2. What do the troubles we're facing produce in us?
   3. Where should we put our focus when we're disturbed by our problems?
   4. What has a chance to grow when our endurance is tested?
   5. What happens when our endurance is fully developed?

My Part

Have you experienced the faithfulness of God in your life? Journal about what you're facing right now. Keep track of what is happening and how you can see God working in the situation and in your life. And then take time to thank God for His promises and His faithfulness.

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Feb 20, 2009
Topic: God, Faith/Trust


No Expiration Date

I found a bag of carrots hiding in the refrigerator the other day, but I couldn't recall how long they'd been there. And I couldn't find an expiration date. Now, I know carrots can last a long time but not forever!

We get used to thinking everything has an expiration or "best by" date, and we have trouble believing that something might last forever, something like God's faithfulness. It has no expiration date. It never has; it never will.

What Does God Say?

The psalmist says to God,

"Your faithfulness endures to all generations;
you have established the earth, and it stands fast" (Psalm 119:90, ESV).

God's faithfulness covers all generations--past, present and future. It's a sure thing. And His faithfulness is enduring--it lasts. It's as eternal as God Himself. You can count on it.

While this faithfulness is enduring, it is also new and fresh, ready for you each day as Lamentations 3:22-23 explains,

"The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases;
his mercies never come to an end;
they are new every morning;
great is your faithfulness." (ESV).

God's faithfulness is great--great in quantity because it is limitless and great in quality because it reflects the nature of God. In fact, everything that makes up faithfulness is seen in God: steadfast love, promises kept, reliability, commitment, follow-through and more. It's all there. Just as God is the very definition and demonstration of love (1 John 4:7-12), He is the perfect definition and demonstration of faithfulness. In fact, God's "steadfast love" and His faithfulness are frequently connected. Just look at Psalm 117:

"Praise the Lord, all nations!
Extol him, all peoples!
For great is his steadfast love toward us,
and the faithfulness of the Lord endures forever" (ESV).

What's really beautiful about God's faithfulness? It's not affected by our lack of faithfulness. Second Timothy 2:13 says, "If we are faithless, he remains faithful--for he cannot deny himself" (ESV). God is faithful, no matter what. Just look at Exodus. When God brought His people out of Egypt, their cycle of complaint, rebellion and repentance continued through the journey and into their establishment as a nation. Yes, God chastened and disciplined them, but He was always faithful. Psalm 106 recounts this history with praise for God's continued faithfulness and love.

My Thoughts

What do you learn from these passages about the ways to see God's unlimited faithfulness?

Psalm 33:4

Psalm 86:15

Psalm 89:1-2

Psalm 111:7-8

How do you see God's faithfulness to His people and His promises in these passages?

Deuteronomy 7:6-11

Genesis 21:1-7

Psalm 89:19-29

1 Kings 8:22-26

Acts 13:16-39

My Part

So, how have you seen God's enduring faithfulness in your life? Have you ever thought it might be expired or that it doesn't include you? Why?

In the psalms, God's faithfulness is praised as the stories are told of all that He's done. Take time to recount your own experience with the faithfulness of God. Put it in a form that can be shared with your children or grandchildren. Perhaps you will want to include the experiences you've heard from other family members. Or it could be the story of how God found you and brought you into a relationship with Him. Use this as an opportunity to praise Him for His faithfulness, to share it with others and to commit your future to Him.

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Feb 23, 2009
Topic: God


Great Is God's Faithfulness

    * "Maybe I will bless you."
    * "I might guide you."
    * "Once in a while I may help you."
    * "I'll try not to forget you."
    * "Call on Me, and I'll think about answering you."
    * "Perhaps I will save you."
    * "If I feel like it, I will forgive you."

How would you like to have a Bible with promises like those? It's doubtful you would spend much time reading it, isn't it? It surely wouldn't make the bestseller list. An unfaithful, ever-changing God is unimaginable. Yet sometimes we treat Him as though He can't be trusted.

What Does God Say?

The truth is that the Lord is never, ever, anything but faithful to Himself, His Word and His people. He cannot change. The prophet Malachi says of God,

"For I am the LORD, I do not change;
therefore you are not consumed, O sons of Jacob" (Malachi 3:6).

Consider the following Scripture passages in your Bible and record what they say about God's faithfulness and how it affects your life.

    * According to Psalm 31:23, what does God do for the faithful?
    * Psalm 71:22. What kind of open response should you have to God's faithfulness?
    * What does Galatians 5:22-23 say faithfulness is a part of?
    * 2 Thessalonians 3:3. What special protection does your faithful God promise you?
    * Psalm 33:4. You can trust God's Word. What else does the Psalmist say you can trust?

My Thoughts

Since God Himself is faithful in all things, He also requires and rewards faithfulness in His followers. God's faithfulness assures your salvation, your forgiveness of sins and your deliverance from temptation. But it is your faithfulness that openly demonstrates your love for your Savior.

    * Matthew 23:23. What three responsibilities were the scribes and Pharisees neglecting in their lives that caused Jesus to rebuke them sharply?
    * Revelation 2:10. Which eternal crown of reward does God give for faithfulness?
    * 2 Timothy 2:2. What kind of people did Paul instruct Timothy to look for in order to keep on spreading the truth of the Gospel?

Dr. Richard Halverson, former U.S. Senate chaplain, once said, "The emphasis must be on God, not on faith. The strength of faith is the faithfulness of God."

--Rod Sargent, NavLog, June/July 1984, page 7

My Part

Perhaps you have sung the hymn, "Great is Thy Faithfulness," which is based on Lamentations 3:22-23. When you have access to a hymnal, look up the hymn and read through all its verses. Then, memorize the Bible passage and remember to thank God regularly for His great faithfulness.

'The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases;
his mercies never come to an end;
they are new every morning;
great is your faithfulness" (Lamentations 3;22-23, ESV).

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Feb 24, 2009
Topic: God, Faith/Trust


The God Who Keeps Promises

There's a tradition that promotes this theory: "If you have your fingers crossed, you can tell a lie without suffering the consequences." But unlike men and women, God isn't looking for a way to tell a lie without being punished. God never lies. He's a promise-maker and a promise-keeper. He keeps His Word and fulfills His promises--always!

What Does God Say?

"Therefore know that the LORD your God, He is God, the faithful God who keeps covenant and mercy for a thousand generations with those who love Him and keep His commandment" (Deuteronomy 7:9).

While there's no firm and fast agreement on how long a generation is, Psalm 90:10 says,

"The days of our lives are seventy years;
And if by reason of strength they are eighty years,
Yet their boast is only labor and sorrow;
For it is soon cut off, and we fly away."

If we take 70 as a generation and multiply it by 1,000 that gives you some indication of God's continuing faithfulness in staying true to His Word?

Now, read again Deuteronomy 7:9 and answer the following questions.

    * What does God promise in Deuteronomy 7:9?
    * How many years would "a thousand generations" include?
    * Who does He make this promise to?
    * What is required of those who receive this promise?

My Thoughts

It is this same promise-keeping God who made our salvation possible according to 1 Corinthians 1:9.

"God is faithful, through whom you were called into fellowship [ Your fellowship with God's Son began when you received Jesus into your life.] with His Son, Jesus Christ our Lord" (NASB).

    * In the above Scripture to whom is God faithful to keep His promises?
    * What difference has being "called into fellowship" with Jesus made in your life?
    * Write out at least two examples of God's faithfulness in your life.

My Part

Consider your own faithfulness. Do you believe that God wants you to keep your promises? Is that hard for you? If it is, memorize the following verse that assures you that God is working in you to give you the ability to do those things (like keep promises or be a faithful person) that He wants you to do.

"For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him" (Philippians 2:13, NLT).

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Feb 25, 2009
Topic: Sin/Temptation


Confession Is Good for the Soul

In 1884 Grover Cleveland was running against James G. Blaine for the presidency of the U.S. Blaine supporters discovered that Cleveland, who was a bachelor at the time, had fathered a son by Mrs. Maria Crofts Halpin, an attractive widow who had been on friendly terms with several politicians. Subsequently, these men tried to pin an immorality tag on Cleveland by distributing handbills showing an infant labeled "One more vote for Cleveland." The move, however, backfired badly. Rather than deny the story, Cleveland decided to tell the truth and admit the wrongdoing. His confession helped defuse the issue, and Cleveland was elected president.

Satan does the same thing. In fact, Satan is called the "accuser of our brethren" (Revelation 12:10). But God provides a solution to this problem in 1 John 1:9.

What Does God Say?

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness (1 John 1:9, ESV).

    * Whom is this verse written to?
    * How is God described in this verse?
    * What two benefits come with confession?

My Thoughts

The word confess means "to admit." One of the most difficult parts of dealing with sin is admitting that it is sin. Oftentimes we want to deny it (I didn't do it!). Other times we try to rationalize it (It's not hurting anybody!) or even excuse it (My parents should have raised me better. It's all their fault!). None of those, however, work with God. Until you acknowledge that the letter "i" in the middle of "sin" stands for yourself and no one else, you'll never experience the fullness of God's forgiveness.

Confession doesn't require the involvement of another person. It can be just between you and God. However, sometimes it is helpful to let another trustworthy person know about your sin so that he or she can be an accountability partner as well as pray for you.

Furthermore, confession doesn't require restitution but such action may help deal with the guilt feelings. Satan is an expert at playing the guilt card and preventing forgiven sinners from actively serving the Lord. While we don't "buy" God's forgiveness by paying back what we owe, we demonstrate that we are forgiven by restoring as much as possible of what has been lost through our sin.

My Part

Is there sin in your life that needs to be confessed? Don't delay; do it now. And if there is some restitution that is needed because of that sin, pay up; accept God's forgiveness and cleansing and begin anew.

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Feb 26, 2009
Topic: Christian Living/Situational, God's Care, Faith/Trust


Faithfulness Shortage

On a scale of one to ten, how faithful (trustworthy, reliable, loyal) do you think the people you meet every day at work or at school or in the marketplace are? Think of number one as not at all faithful and number ten as faithful all the time. Now, where would you rank your personal faithfulness level?

The thing is, faithfulness isn't really as common as we'd like it to be. If faithfulness means keeping our promises, following through on our responsibilities, being committed and reliable--someone others can count on--then we're all in trouble. You can probably even give specific instances when you (or someone else) failed to be faithful.

What Does God Say?

The good news is, God is not just like we are. He never scores a one in faithfulness. He is faithful all the time, no matter what we do in return. And when you feel like everyone has left you in the dust, when no one cares or keeps their commitments to you, God is still faithful.

Just look at the experiences recorded in the psalms. Over and over the writers reflect the hardship of living with unfaithful people, but they come back to the sure knowledge that God never fails to be faithful. For example, faced with enemies, betrayers and faithless people, David goes to God in Psalm 86:15 and says,

"But you, O Lord, are a God merciful and gracious,
slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness" (ESV).

God is the only one who can ever be perfectly faithful. And when that's what you need, do as David did and go to God:

"Hear my prayer, O Lord;
give ear to my pleas for mercy!
In your faithfulness answer me, in your righteousness!" (Psalm 143:1, ESV)

God is not only your source of faithfulness, He's also your model. As His children, we have a responsibility to become faithful people too. Faithfulness should become fruit in our lives, evidence that the Holy Spirit is at work in us (Galatians 5:22). That's the challenge.

My Thoughts

How does God show His faithfulness to us? Check out these verses for some ideas.

Genesis 9:11-16

Psalm 91:4

Psalm 145:13

1 Corinthians 10:13

2 Thessalonians 3:3

1 John 1:9

Some of these things only God can do. But based on what you've seen of God's faithfulness, what can you do to be a faithful person?

My Part

There is definitely a shortage of faithfulness in our world. But you can make a difference. Is there someone who needs your forgiveness? A promise you need to keep? What about sticking with a task or following through on something God has called you to do? Maybe it means just turning up on time or being prepared for that Bible study you attend. Perhaps you need to talk to your friend or your spouse and find out just what they need from you in terms of faithfulness.

Being faithful isn't easy; it means going against the flow in many ways. But there's a little word of encouragement found in 1 Thessalonians 5:24, "He who calls you is faithful; he will surely do it" (ESV). When God calls you to be faithful, just as He is faithful, He's going to help make it happen. Take the risk; do your part to end the faithfulness shortage!

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Feb 27, 2009
Topic: Faith/Trust


Don't Look Down

"Don't look down!"

When was the last time you ignored that advice? You may have regretted it! Maybe heights don't scare you that much, but for many, looking down from a precarious perch can actually be dangerous.

In a sense, that's the same kind of advice Peter's giving in our passage for today. But first he begins in 1:3 by looking up.

What Does God Say?

"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead" (1 Peter 1:3, ESV). Read through that verse again, and read the next two as well. Notice how many times Peter tells us we have something to be grateful for.

We are born again; we have a living hope; we have an imperishable inheritance waiting for us; we are guarded through our faith in God and awaiting His future return. Notice also the source of these blessings--the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.

We are saved because of God's mercy, through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. We have a living hope because of His Resurrection. It's the power of God that backs His promises and preserves our inheritance. So, by the time we get to verse 6, it feels natural to read, "In this you rejoice"! It's almost impossible not to rejoice after all that.

Peter's been focusing our eyes upwards, but notice in verses 6-7 the brief downward focus, "though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, so that the tested genuineness of your faith...may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ."

This is genuine faith. It's the faith that saves our soul, the faith that seals us in God's protective power, the faith that refuses to look away from God regardless of circumstances. It's the faith that reminds us to look up, not down.

My Thoughts

As you read the verses for today, think about the following questions:

1. What blessings does Peter mention?

2. Who gives us these blessings?

3. How long-lasting are the blessings?

4. What's one reason we have to endure trials?

5. What will our faith result in when Jesus comes again?

My Part

Are you finding it hard to look up these days? Take some time and remind yourself of what God's done for you. Pray to Him, and ask Him to show you the ways He's blessed your life that you may not have seen. Make it a point in the coming week to spend some time reading the Word and praying to God first thing in the morning. Before life has a chance to get you down, spend some time looking up.

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Mar 2, 2009
Topic: God's Care, Salvation


How You Were Made

Have you ever looked in the mirror and then checked your manufacturer's label? It does not say "Made in the USA," "Random Mutation," "Chemical Reaction" or "Biological Lottery." Instead your manufacturer labeled you, "Fearfully and Wonderfully Made."

What Does God Say?

The Scriptures tell us that each one of us was made lovingly, wonderfully and purposefully by an almighty, powerful, life-giving and loving Creator.

"I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made.
Wonderful are your works;
my soul knows it very well (Psalm 139:14, ESV).

Only God knows our true uniqueness because He designed us to be individuals.

"Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex!
Your workmanship is marvelous--how well I know it.
You watched me as I was being formed in utter seclusion,
as I was woven together in the dark of the womb.
You saw me before I was born.
Every day of my life was recorded in your book.
Every moment was laid out
before a single day had passed" (Psalm 139:14-16, NLT).

   1. Why did the psalmist praise God?
   2. When did God become aware of your existence?
   3. Where did God record every day of your life?
   4. How does that make you feel?

My Thoughts

Dr. Woodrow Kroll, world-famous Bible Teacher, came to this conclusion about how we were created:

That [Psalm 139] ought to make you feel pretty good about yourself. And I think it ought to make you feel pretty good about God as well.

Compare and contrast your feelings about yourself and about God with Dr. Kroll's.

Not only are there wonderful truths in the Scriptures about how you were created, but God's Word tells you that He created you for a purpose.

"The LORD will work out his plans for my life--
for your faithful love, O Lord, endures forever.
Don't abandon me, for you made me"(Psalm 138:8, NLT).

   1. How do you see the Lord working out His plan for your life?
   2. Why does God care about your life?
   3. What kind of love does God have for you?

My Part

Have you discovered the purpose or purposes God has for your life? Discovering who you were created to be means experiencing who you are in Christ. If you don't know Christ, you can find out exactly who He is and how you can know Him by visiting the Meet Jesus page.

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Mar 3, 2009
Topic: Other


God's Purpose for You

When God made the world, what did He have in mind? Was He merely testing His creative powers? When He took dust from the earth and formed Adam, did He really have a plan for mankind, or did He leave humanity to its own destiny?

In an age when most people are educated to believe everything evolved by blind chance and random selection over vast spans of time, it is common for such notions to spill over into the minds of church-going people, causing them to question why we are here and where we are headed.

The Bible, however, teaches you a totally different lesson on the value of human beings. God, it tells you, made man and woman in His own image, unique, with wonderful, eternal purposes in mind.

In today's Bible Minute study, let's explore some of the special purposes God had in mind when He created humans, then saved many from the sin that caused them to go off the pathway of God's original intentions.

What Does God Say?

Read Genesis 1:26-31 in your Bible. It is Scripture's opening statement about God's purposes for making human beings. Answer the following:

    * What made man and woman different from all other creatures of God?
    * What responsibility was given to Adam and Eve?
    * How did God express His satisfaction with His creation?

My Thoughts

You are one of God's unique human beings. He made you and saves you for Himself. Below are some of the reasons God made you. Find the Scripture reference in the list below that goes with each reason

To honor and glorify Him
To fellowship with Him
To rule with Him
To worship and serve Him
To be a part of His great family
To live forever with Him
To have joy and pleasure in His presence

Psalms 16:11; Daniel 7:27; Isaiah 43: 6-7; 1 John 1:3; Genesis 2:15-17; John 3:36; John 1:12

My Part

Look through the above list of reasons God created you. Pray through it, thanking the Lord for each of His great eternal plans for your life. Consider your life as it is right now and ask Him to help you live with eternity in view.

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Mar 4, 2009
Topic: Sin/Temptation


Steps of Self-destruction

We can all be grateful for the difficulty involved in obtaining explosives. Even the small firecrackers we can buy in some parts of the United States on Independence Day come with stern warnings and for good reason. They can burn or even maim.

But, unfortunately, sin doesn't come with a warning label. In fact, sin doesn't always even feel wrong--and it is far more destructive than explosives will ever be.

What Does God Say?

One of the most tragic verses in all the Bible is this one: "So when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was a delight to the eyes, and that the tree was to be desired to make one wise, she took of its fruit and ate, and she also gave some to her husband who was with her, and he ate" (Genesis 3:6, ESV).

Her action was wrong (it was disobedience to God), but look at this incident through Eve's eyes: There was nothing preventing her access to the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. The fruit on the tree looked good; it wasn't rotting or spoiling on the ground. There was nothing wrong with her desire to grow wise--the Bible instructs us in many places to seek wisdom. She even wanted to share with her husband.

But that's what sin does; it makes us trust our own judgment rather than God's. It made Eve think about what she wanted, instead of what God wanted. Sin made her look at God as an obstacle rather than a friend.

Satan won't tempt you with something that's repulsive. He's going to make you think you're doing the right thing. So, how can you avoid sin? If Satan is so deceptive, do you stand a chance? In the next sections we'll look at what we need to do to recognize sin for what it is.

My Thoughts

As you read Genesis 3:1-6 and James 1:13-15 think about the following questions:

    * At one point (Genesis 3:3), Eve remembered God's command. How did Satan distract her?

    * If the sins you struggle with actually appeared as ugly as they really are, how might they look? Describe or draw a picture.

    * When is a person tempted according to the passage in James?

    * Write out the step-by-step progression into sin?

    * Compare the path to sin that James described in James 1:13-15 with Eve's journey into wrongdoing.

My Part

One of the mistakes Eve made was failing to consult God. She never said, "You know, this seems right to me, but let me run it by God first." That's why it's important to keep an active dialogue with God going. In fact, if you want to stay away from sin, it's essential that you have a healthy relationship with God. You can do that by

Staying in His Word.

Talking to Him through prayer.

Spending time in fellowship with other believers.

Satan doesn't play fair. He's not obligated to tell you the risks involved with taking his advice. Only God can tell you the truth, and that can only happen when you listen.

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Date: Mar 5, 2009
Topic: Jesus


One Way

They came to your door last week. They certainly seemed to be decent people, dedicated to their religion. You wondered what they thought about Jesus Christ, so you asked them.

The older one answered, "Well, he is the highest and most loved of all God's creation. He was a partner with God in creation; but he was not, like some think, the Creator." You tried to show them some Bible passages that taught differently, but they left, unimpressed.

It reminded you of some other visitors you had last month. You asked them a similar question and they told you, " Christ, like all the rest of us, was a spirit-being before he was given a body. He is our oldest brother--we are all the offspring of God." They had no interest in your Bible. As one said, "We have higher revelations than that."

If Jesus is not God, the world has no Savior. His deity (the fact that He is God) lies at the heart of Christian belief. In order to be saved, you must believe in the deity of Jesus Christ. He is not simply a good man, a great teacher or a figment of men's imaginations. Look at what the Bible says.

What Does God Say?

1 John 4:15 (ESV) says, "Whoever confesses that Jesus is the Son of God, God abides in him, and he in God."

In John 10:30, Jesus says, "I and the Father are one." He does not mean they are the same person, but they are members of the holy Trinity, in perfect unity in their nature and work.

Read Exodus 3:13-14, then John 8:52-59, which records a controversy Jesus had with Jews who accused Him of having a demon.

"They scorned the idea that Christ claimed to be greater than Abraham, their forefather. Jesus told them, 'Your father Abraham rejoiced that he would see my day. He saw it and was glad.' So the Jews said to him, 'You are not yet fifty years old, and have you seen Abraham?' Jesus said to them, 'Truly, truly, I say to you, before Abraham was, I am.'" (John 8:56-58, ESV).

The Jews' reaction in John 8:59 shows they clearly understood Jesus' claim to be God. They picked up stones to kill Him for blasphemy.

My Thoughts

Here are some Bible passages to look up. They are only a sample of the many statements about Jesus that show His deity. See what indications of His deity (Jesus is God) you can find in them.

    * Matthew 28:18
    * John 5:25
    * Matthew 28:19
    * Colossians 1:16
    * Colossians 1:17
    * Revelation 19:16
    * 2 Corinthians 13:14
    * Romans 1:4

What do you think about Christ? To be saved, you must believe that He is God as He claims. Otherwise you are trusting in your opinion rather than the Word. There are thousands of wrong opinions about Christ but only one truth. Sadly, there are many who will say to Him, "'Lord, Lord,' and He will say, 'Depart from me. I never knew you'" (see Matthew 7:22).

My Part

Read 1 John 5:10-13 and memorize verse 12. The next time you read through the New Testament, record every place you see evidence that Jesus is God. Thank God for revealing the Way, the Truth and the Life to you in His Word.

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Mar 6, 2009
Topic: Jesus, New Life, Faith/Trust


What's in a Name?

Shakespeare wrote that "a rose by any other name would smell as sweet." That may be true but having the right name is important and often significant. In some cultures, a child isn't given a name until his parents know something about his character or his name is changed because of something he does or is known for. In the Bible, God sometimes changed a person's name when He changed his or her mission in life: Abram became Abraham; Jacob became Israel; and Saul became Paul. Each new name was significant.

But there is one name that stands above all others: Jesus. Jesus doesn't change His name, but He has multiple names which reveal His character or His mission. If you want to get to know Him better, you need to know Jesus by name.

What Does God Say?

Jesus is most often called the Christ or Jesus Christ, the Son of God, Son of Man, even Son of David. These names are pretty straightforward, identifying who He is and where He came from.

However, in John's Gospel, Jesus refers to Himself by a number of different names. For example, in John 6:35, "Jesus said to them, 'I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst'" (ESV).

As the Bread of Life, Jesus provides what you need to live. He is your spiritual food; you don't actually eat Him, but in Him you have all you need for spiritual life. When you believe in Him, you find He is enough for your daily needs.

In John 8:12, "Jesus spoke to them, saying, 'I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life'" ( ESV).

You don't have to look very far to see that we live in a very dark world, thanks to the sinful, corrupted nature of man and the rule of Satan. But Jesus is the Light--life-giving Light which overcomes the darkness. Jesus said this right after an incident when the sin-darkened heart of man was very evident (read John 8:2-11). If we're to survive spiritually, we need Jesus to shed His light on our hearts. Light is also necessary for growth, and Jesus makes spiritual growth possible.

Another name is found in John 11:25: "Jesus said to her, 'I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live'" (ESV).

Standing at the graveside of His friend, Lazarus, Jesus is about to bring Lazarus back to life. He uses this name to help us see His power to conquer death and to give life. The two greatest forces in the world--death and life--cannot overpower Him. A short time later, God would do for Jesus exactly what Jesus did for Lazarus--and what He also will do for us as believers one day. Our death leads to new life in heaven.

My Thoughts

Take a look at some of Jesus' other names. You may find more than one in a passage.

Matthew 1:21-23

John 1:1,14,29

John 4:25-26

Romans 1:1-4

Revelation 19:11-16

    * What names do you find?
    * What do they tell you about Jesus and His mission?

Isaiah 9:6

John 10:7-18

John 14:1-7

John 15:1-8

    * What names do you find?
    * Through these names, what does Jesus offer you?
    * What, if anything, is your part in tapping into what Jesus offers?

My Part

In the names found in John's Gospel, there's a strong link each time to faith: Jesus says "whoever comes," "whoever believes," "whoever follows" will enjoy what He offers as the Bread of Life, the Light of the World, the Resurrection and the Life. Our faith doesn't change Jesus' name, but it gives us access or opportunity to enjoy what He offers. He is our sufficiency--all we'll ever need (see 2 Corinthians 3:4-5).

So, are there any names which stand out for you? Maybe one you need to put your faith in? All the names refer to the same Jesus. Where do you need to know Him better, more intimately? Ask Him to show you more and more about Himself as you read His Word. Keep your eyes open for Jesus' names and other things you can learn about Him.

Maybe today you have a friend who's really struggling, and they need to understand that Jesus can be their Life, their Bread, etc. Take a few moments to lovingly share the Jesus you know with them.

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Mar 9, 2009
Topic: Jesus, Salvation


Salvation

It's the American way of salvation: If I've been bad, then I stop being bad and start being good; and when I'm good enough, I'll get to heaven.

Man's way has always been to try harder; do more; be religious; be moral. The Bible teaches that salvation done our way is a dead end--literally and eternally.

What Does God Say?

"There is a way that seems right to a man,

but its end is the way to death" Proverbs 16:25 (ESV).

That's scary! And it gets worse.

"'Not everyone who calls out to me, "Lord! Lord!" will enter the Kingdom of Heaven. Only those who actually do the will of my Father in heaven will enter. On judgment day many will say to me, "Lord! Lord! We prophesied in your name and cast out demons in your name and performed many miracles in your name." But I will reply, "I never knew you. Get away from me, you who break God's laws"'" (Matthew 5:2; 7:21-23, NLT).

The problem with our way is that it is not God's way. God tells us clearly and repeatedly in His Word that salvation is found in Jesus--Jesus alone.

Look up these verses and write down what Jesus said about Himself or what others said about Him.

John 14:6

Matthew 1:21

Acts 10:43

1 Timothy 2:5

Acts 4:10-12

My Thoughts

There are many, many other Scriptures that teach us this compelling and unvarnished truth: Salvation is not about me or you (who we are or what we do or don't do). Salvation's all about Jesus--who He is (the Son of God) and what He did (died on the cross for our sins).

That is the one way and the only way to salvation.

"And this is what God has testified: He has given us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. Whoever has the Son has life; whoever does not have God's Son does not have life"(1 John 5:11-12, NLT).

My Part

Romans 10:9, NLT tells us: "If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved."

It's simple, but it is not easy. It's simple because anyone, anytime, anywhere can trust Jesus as Savior and be saved. But most will never do it.

"You can enter God's Kingdom only through the narrow gate. The highway to hell is broad, and its gate is wide for the many who choose that way. But the gateway to life is very narrow and the road is difficult, and only a few ever find it" (Matthew 7:13-14, NLT).

How about you? Are you going your way or God's way?

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Mar 10, 2009
Topic: Salvation


God's Mercy on You

I wonder if the angels were caught off guard when God confronted Adam and Eve about the forbidden tree in the Garden of Eden. I wonder if they had been shaking their heads in sadness to see this man and woman fall into disobedience. But what may have surprised them even more was the mercy God showed this wayward couple.

From beginning to end, the story of the Bible--the story of the human race--hinges on the mercy of God. Let's take a look at what God's mercy means for us today.

What Does God Say?

In Ephesians, Paul sets the stage for us. "You were dead in the trespasses and sins in which you once walked, following the course of this world" (Ephesians 2:1-2, ESV).

Maybe you're someone who is acutely aware of just how sinful you are. You want to believe that Jesus loves you, but how could He accept someone with a past like yours? Maybe you know exactly what Paul was talking about when he said, "We all once lived in the passions of our flesh, carrying out the desires of the body and the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, like the rest of mankind" (Ephesians 2:3, ESV).

Yes, God knows the specifics of your life. He knows the specifics of my life too. He knows the specifics of every single life that has ever crossed the face of this earth. None of that makes the next verse any less true. "But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ--by grace you have been saved" (Ephesians 2:4-5, ESV).

I know my past. I know I don't deserve any mercy from God. But mercy isn't about me or you or anyone else. Mercy is about God and His love for us.

My Thoughts

As you read Ephesians 2:1-10, think about the following questions:

    * Paul talks about the bad things we do and the good things we do in this passage. How do they affect our standing with God?
    * Based on this passage, how would you define mercy and grace?
    * After salvation, what's the next step for believers?

My Part

If you have more questions about God's mercy and salvation, we'd be happy to help. You can read more about it by going to our "Meet Jesus" page or contact us directly at info@bibleminute.org.