Bible Minute

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Aug 4, 2009
Topic: Pride/Humility


Problem of Pride

Pride is a hazardous condition. The side effects are definitely unpleasant; it can result in anger, disappointment, humiliation and even the judgment of God. The problem with pride is--we all have it. And because of pride, we can't be the people God wants us to be.

What Does God Say?

Pride begins with how we see ourselves. And it essentially says, "I know better than anybody else, and even better than God." It was this attitude that led Satan to fall from the angelic hosts of heaven to become the enemy of God.

It also appeared when Eve sinned. Look at Satan's subtle appeal to Eve that she would know better than God in Genesis 3:4-6, "But the serpent said to the woman, 'You will not surely die. For God knows that when you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.' 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" (ESV).

You find another example of the "I'm better than God" attitude in Exodus 5. Pharaoh responded to Moses' plea to free the Israelite slaves with this arrogance, "'And who is the Lord? Why should I listen to him and let Israel go? I don't know the Lord, and I will not let Israel go'" (Exodus 5:2, NLT). In the following chapters in Exodus, you see the hardness of Pharaoh's heart as he refused to submit his own pride to the greatness of God. Yet God was working this for His own purpose. Romans 9:17 tells us, "For the Scripture says to Pharaoh, 'For this very purpose I have raised you up, that I might show my power in you, and that my name might be proclaimed in all the earth'" (ESV). But pride was also Pharaoh's downfall; it brought great heartache both to him and his people (see Exodus 7-12).

When we set ourselves up against God's supremacy; when we think we know better, can do a job better or that our way is preferable, when we let pride direct our choices, we're walking a destructive path.

My Thoughts

God has a lot to say about this troublesome problem. In the following verses, what does pride lead to? What's the antidote or cure?

Proverbs 11:2 Proverbs 13:10

Proverbs 16:5,18 Proverbs 29:23

Jesus told a parable about pride in Luke 18:9-14. What's the biggest difference between these men? Who had the better relationship with God in the end?

Pride is at the heart of many sins. How do you see pride at the root of jealousy, anger, coveting or greed, sexual immorality, unfaithfulness, lying, gossip, etc.? What part has it played in your life and struggle with temptation?

My Part

So, what's the solution? Well, a little healthy humility doesn't hurt! However, one core concept can make a difference, and it's found in 1 Corinthians 6:19-20, "Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body" (ESV).

The idea that "you are not your own" changes everything. You are not in charge; you belong to God and were bought with a price--the life Jesus Christ gave up for you on the cross. It's God who is in charge. He is the Master, the Father, the Creator, the Supreme God--not us.

    * What can you do today to acknowledge, even rejoice in the fact "you are not your own"?
    * How will you express the appropriate humility before Him?
    * What needs to change in your life if you're to set aside your pride?
    * How do you think it will affect your relationship with God and with others?

You'll want to start with prayer--if you need to, borrow from Luke 18:13.

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Aug 5, 2009
Topic: God's Care


The Preserved Word

Ever been a part of a miracle? If you've held a Bible, you've experienced the miraculous. If Congress had written the Bible, it would take a crane to lift it. But because God wrote it, you can carry His entire message around in one hand. And He has promised us He will preserve His Word.

What Does God Say?

Read Matthew 5:18 and Matthew 24:35.

What does Jesus promise about His Word?

Read Psalm 119:89:

What does the Psalmist say about God's Word?

Read Isaiah 40:8:

How long does Isaiah say God's Word will stand?

Read 1 Peter 1:23 and 25:

Where does Peter say your life in Christ comes from? How long will it last?

The Bible tells us God has given His Word to us so we will know what He wants to say to us. And God has promised His Word will last forever.

My Thoughts

    * Why do you think God thought it important to preserve His Word to us? Write down three reasons.
    * Create a drawing that illustrates the longevity of God's Word.
    * Give at least one reason you're grateful that God's Word is forever.

My Part

It is important to know with assurance (a deep and settled conviction) that God has preserved and will preserve His Word. The message of salvation depends on it, and it is the means of God doing His work in you.

"Therefore, we never stop thanking God that when you received his message from us, you didn't think of our words as mere human ideas. You accepted what we said as the very word of God--which, of course, it is. And this word continues to work in you who believe" (1 Thessalonians. 2:13, NLT).

Take time today to give God thanks for His eternal Word.

[nChrist]

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Aug 6, 2009
Topic: Sin/Temptation


Some Things Never Change

One of the most popular Peanuts cartoon strips features Lucy convincing Charlie Brown to kick a football she's holding. Despite the fact Lucy has never kept her promise to hold the ball in the past, Charlie gives it his best. Invariably he ends up on his back after she yanks the ball away. Then Lucy walks off commenting, "Some things never change!"

It's easy to criticize Charlie Brown's gullibility. You would think after the umpteenth time, he would learn. But what about us? Satan tempts us using the same approach he used to lure Eve into disobedience. Let's take a look.

What Does God Say?

Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world--the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride in possessions--is not from the Father but is from the world. And the world is passing away along with its desires, but whoever does the will of God abides forever " (1 John 2:15-17, ESV).

    * What are the three areas in which John says we're tempted?
    * Compare John's words to Eve's temptation in Genesis 3:6. Identify these same three areas.

Read about Jesus' temptation in the wilderness (Matthew 4:1-11).

    * Where do we see these three areas appearing once again?
    * How did Jesus defeat each of these temptations?
    * According to John, why is giving in to these temptations so futile?

My Thoughts

When it comes to Satan, it can be said, "Some things never change!" Whether it's in the Garden of Eden, the wilderness of Judea or Hometown, USA, Satan's approach to temptation has never changed. But why should it? Satan has used this tactic successfully with only one exception--Jesus Christ.

Satan is a master at presenting these same three temptations in a variety of packages, but underneath the wrapping, it never changes. When it comes to Satan's temptations, it's important to identify the contents and not be fooled by the packaging.

My Part

Take a sheet of paper and make three columns. At the top of each column, list one of the "desires" that John mentions. In each column write down the temptations you have faced and/or are facing. Find a verse in God's Word you can apply to each temptation. Ask God to help you use that verse to gain victory over the temptation.

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Aug 7, 2009
Topic: Salvation


At the Cross

Of all the great theologians this world has known, the Christian singer/songwriter Carman will never be counted as one of them. But when I think of the victory that was accomplished at the cross, I'll always think of his song "The Champion."

In the song he paints the long conflict between God and Satan as a boxing match, with the saints of God observing on one side, and the villains of history leering on the other. Near the end of the song, Satan strikes the killing blow to Jesus and all watch God come out to start the ten-count.

"Ten...nine...eight...." It looks like the victory is sure, but then the villains are thrown into confusion; what's going on? "Five...four...three...." The body of Jesus is now stirring; the saints are on their feet. "Two...." A cheer breaks forth! Jesus is on His feet! He has won!

Like I said, Carman's never going to be counted among the great theologians, but he got one thing right in his song: The death of Christ at Calvary and His Resurrection three days later was an amazing victory for you and me.

What Does God Say?

Victory over what? Look at Romans 6:23: "For the wages of sin is death" (ESV). Just as each hour of work I do earns me a certain amount of money, so each sin I have ever committed has earned me death. And while the majority of my life has "felt" good--I'm certainly not as bad as a lot of people out there--Romans 3:23 says that "all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God" (ESV). That includes those of us who have led "good" lives.

That's why the death and Resurrection of Jesus is such a miraculous victory for you and me. If Jesus hadn't raised Himself from the dead, we would have no second half to Romans 6:23: "But the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord" (ESV).

My Thoughts

Think about these verses and consider the following questions:

    * If before Jesus died we were condemned to death and after He rose we can accept eternal life, what did Jesus' death accomplish?
    * Why does God offer eternal life as a free gift?
    * What does it take to receive this free gift from God?

My Part

If you haven't accepted the free gift of Jesus Christ, please do so now! We have resources available if you want to know more. Check out "Meet Jesus" or drop us a note at info@bibleminute.org. We'll be happy to share with you how you can have a part in Jesus' victory.

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Aug 10, 2009
Topic: Other


Witness You Can Trust

The jury had been out for two days, so the judge was pleased when the foreman returned to the chamber and said, "Your Honor, we have just one question to ask before we make our decision."

"Good. What is it?" the judge replied.

The foreman hesitated, then said "We're wondering--can you tell us what the words plaintiff and defendant mean?"

If the right decision is going to be made, it's important to understand the words used. As a follower of Christ, here's a good legal word for you to be clear about--the word witness.

What Does God Say?

Simply put, a witness is "someone who sees an event and gives a report of what happened." You will find that the Bible speaks of people who witness about Christ and what He did. You will also see that Christ Himself is a witness; and how, as a Christian, you ought to be a witness for Him as well.

Read the following verses in your Bible and answer the questions.

Consider some of the witnesses who testified to the truth about the Lord Jesus Christ:

    * John 5:37. Who is the witness to Christ's genuineness in this verse?
    * John 1:29-34. Who is Christ's witness in these verses? What does the witness call Him?
    * John 5:36. What are the witnesses to Christ's truthfulness in this verse? What do they tell about Him?
    * Acts 10:43. Who are the witnesses in this verse? What do they testify to?

Next, look at some of the things Christ witnessed to about Himself:

    * John 8:14. What did Jesus say was proof that His testimony about Himself was true?
    * John 18:37. What does Jesus say His purpose was for coming into the world?

And finally, look at the witnessing responsibility Christ gives to all believers:

    * Acts 1:8. Where does Jesus send us to be His witnesses?

My Thoughts

Witnesses must be trustworthy since the life of a person standing trial often hangs in the balance, based on the truthfulness of what the witness claims to have seen. Therefore, it is not surprising that God holds witnesses personally responsible for their testimony.

He says in Exodus 23:1-2 (ESV): "You shall not spread a false report. You shall not join hands with a wicked man to be a malicious witness. You shall not fall in with the many to do evil, nor shall you bear witness in a lawsuit, siding with the many, so as to pervert justice."

In Revelation 3:14 (ESV), Jesus tells the apostle John, "And to the angel of the church in Laodicea write: 'The words of the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the beginning of God's creation.'"

    * He is the "Amen," the all-sufficient one, everything that is necessary.
    * He is the "faithful and true witness," the one who reports exactly what God wants us to know.
    * He is the "beginning of God's creation." He is not created; He is the One who began all creation. He has witnessed the very beginning of all things.

My Part

All you need to know about the Lord Jesus Christ is recorded for you in the Bible, which was inspired by another true witness, the Holy Spirit (John15:26).

Imagine that someone asks you, "What truths do you know about Jesus Christ?" Then write down as many things as you can that the Bible witnesses to about Him. Think how you can put into your own words the truths that you want to tell others about Him.

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Aug 11, 2009
Topic: Jesus, Worship/Praise/Worthiness


The Worship Experience

What's the greatest worship experience you've ever had? What was so powerful, so holy and so celebratory that it drove you to your knees? Or had you shouting and singing and praising God in ways you'd never imagined? Fix that picture in your mind--and then multiply it by a thousand. And you'll begin to have a sense of what worship will be like when we gather before Jesus, the Lamb of God.

What Does God Say?

Revelation is filled with those moments. Let's start with Revelation 5:8-10: "And when he had taken the scroll, the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb, each holding a harp, and golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints. And they sang a new song, saying,

'Worthy are you to take the scroll
and to open its seals,
for you were slain, and by your blood you ransomed people for God
from every tribe and language and people and nation,
and you have made them a kingdom and priests to our God,
and they shall reign on the earth.'" (ESV)

The key to worship is in that first word of the song: "Worthy." It means "ascribing or expressing the worth of someone or something." In true worship, that someone is Jesus.

Why is He worthy? Well, as the song tells us, because He was slain; He ransomed us with His blood and He makes us a kingdom of priests. Throughout Scripture, we learn Jesus is worthy of our worship because He is the Son of God; He is perfect, holy, righteous, loving, merciful, just, faithful, etc. Everything about Him, all that He is, is worth our attention, our devotion, our praise and our worship. No other can compare.

Pick two or three of these worship scenes in Revelation to examine more closely.

Revelation 4:8-11
Revelation 5:11-13
Revelation 7:9-12
Revelation 11:15-19
Revelation 19:1-9

    * Where is the focus placed?
    * What are the words of worship? The actions of worship?
    * What attitude is common among those who are worshiping?

My Thoughts

    * How did your view of Jesus change as you read the preceding worship scenes?

    * How might you apply the expressions of worship you read about in Revelation to your worship?

When we begin to grasp the awesome spectrum of His worthiness, then our worship grows beyond music or services or ritual. It becomes the response of a heart that acknowledges and embraces the immense treasure wrapped up in Christ the Lamb. It's not about us, what we have or even what or how we can give back to God; it's all about Him. That's what drives the creatures and elders of Revelation 5 to the ground before Him.

My Part

Worship is not limited to singing or prayer or even our actions when we're gathered with other believers. It can be private and personal or public and shared. But the focus is always the same: Jesus Christ.

    * What do you currently do as worship?
    * What can you change based on the examples found in Revelation?
    * How will you share your experience of worship with other believers?

Look over your schedule for the next two or three days and see if you can make a time for focused worship on Christ. Borrow words from Scripture (like Psalm 145); use music; get on your knees or even face down, whatever will help you to recognize the Lamb as worthy of your worship. Don't make it about you and what you need or want but bring your praise and express the worthiness of Christ back to Him.

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Aug 12, 2009
Topic: New Life


The Upward Call

In Eden, the first two human beings briefly enjoyed the highest position a man or woman can have. They lived and walked in a garden prepared especially for them, sharing joy-filled hours with the God who created and loved them. Satan, who had thrown away the highest position an archangel can have, brought Adam and Eve down to his level by encouraging them to rebel. Since that moment, mankind has dropped lower and lower, ever trying with blinded eyes to look upward to see the paradise it lost.

What Does God Say?

The cross, which marked the lowest hours of Jesus' earthly experience, is the turning point for fallen people. It provides the one and only way to regain the upward path that leads to eternal fellowship with God. Jesus said, "And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, that whoever believes in him may have eternal life" (John 3:14-15, ESV).

When you come to the cross, trusting in Christ's sacrifice and forgiveness, you'll find that you can have the Lord's "ups" instead of Satan's "downs." Satan's career led from being cast down from heaven and will end with him cast into everlasting torment in the lake of fire and brimstone. Those who follow his way will share the same end.

Proverbs 15:24 (ESV)

The path of life leads upward for the prudent,

that he may turn away from Sheol beneath.

Look at some of the "ups" God has for Christian believers as He calls them higher and higher. Jot down your answers to these questions:

    * Colossians 1:3-5. What does the apostle Paul say is "laid up" for believers?
    * 2 Timothy 4:8. In addition, what has the Lord "laid up"? For whom is it laid up?
    * Ephesians 2:4-7. To what place has God "raised us up" when we believe?
    * Jude 1:20. Jude tells believers to "build yourselves up." In what are you to build yourself up?
    * Philippians 3:12-14. What does Paul press on toward as he forgets what lies behind and reaches forward to what lies ahead?
    * 1 Thessalonians 4:17. What does the verse say will happen to Christians who are alive when Christ returns for His Church?

My Thoughts

Though Satan was defeated at the cross, he continues to accuse believers and tries to drag them down. But God gives you the power to overcome temptation and the strength to go through trials. The devil's attempts to pull you down are foiled as you keep looking up to Jesus and trusting in His strength.

    * Read Revelation 12:9-12. Count the "downs" in the passage and thank the Lord that you do not have to go down with Satan!

Jim Irwin, the Apollo 15 Lunar Module pilot, who drove the Lunar Roving Vehicle on the moon, wrote in his testimony:

"Now I have a new perception and a new appreciation for this spaceship we call earth. It has been a real spiritual awakening. I think I am a person who loves all men, and God has given me a strong desire and compulsion to share my faith with them.

"The message I have, of course, is the old, old story of Jesus Christ. Our crew brought back the Genesis rock from the moon, but I came back with a new appreciation of another rock, the rock of the Word of God, and I want to tell people about him, and about the greatest space flight of all--when they go to meet him."*

My Part

Have you looked up to Jesus and trusted Him as your Savior? If not, go to the "Meet Jesus" page on this website and take the step that will put you on God's upward path.

Memorize this verse and make Paul's goal yours as well.

Philippians 3:14 (ESV) "I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus."

*Jim Irwin's testimony, An Illustrated Edition of the Living New Testament, back cover, World Home Bible League, South Holland, IL., 1967.

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Aug 13, 2009
Topic: Heaven


Alpha & Omega

Alpha and Omega: they're the first and last letters of the Greek alphabet. When you say, "Alpha and Omega," it's like saying A to Z. It means "the beginning and the end with everything in between." And that's exactly how the Bible describes Jesus. He's not only the beginning and the end, He's everything--all inclusive.

What Does God Say?

"'Look! He comes with the clouds of heaven.
And everyone will see him--
even those who pierced him.
And all the nations of the world
will mourn for him.
Yes! Amen!

"'I am the Alpha and the Omega--the beginning and the end,'" says the Lord God. "'I am the one who is, who always was, and who is still to come--the Almighty One'" (Revelation 1:7-8, NLT).

Dr. Woodrow Kroll, long-time Bible Teacher, explains these verses: "The apostle John is talking about the Second Coming of Christ. And he says when He comes people will know it's Jesus. They are going to see Him. In fact even those who pierced Him are going to see Him. Verse 8 identifies who Jesus is. He says, '"I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End," says the Lord, "who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty."' He says, "I began it all; I will end it all."

That Jesus is the Alpha and Omega is a truth taught throughout the Bible.

Read the following verses and answer the questions:

Isaiah 41:4
Revelation 21:6

Who is speaking?
How does the speaker describe Himself?
What one idea is repeated in each verse?

My Thoughts

God's plan of salvation begins and ends with Jesus, and God's purpose for each of us can only be found in Jesus.

What do you think Jesus is describing in this particular "beginning and end" Scripture: Hebrews 12:2, KJV? Write down your thoughts.

Read Philippians 2:6-11

    * Why is the faith of a Christian about Jesus?
    * Why is God's salvation found only in Jesus?

My Part

God has a plan and a purpose for your life, and that plan and purpose can only be found in Jesus. Jesus can be the author of your faith. If you don't know Him, here's how to begin.

"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. For it is by believing in your heart that you are made right with God, and it is by confessing with your mouth that you are saved. As the Scriptures tell us, 'Anyone who trusts in him will never be disgraced.' Jew and Gentile are the same in this respect. They have the same Lord, who gives generously to all who call on him. For 'Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved" (Romans 10:9-13, NLT).

For more information, check out the "Meet Jesus" page or drop us a line at info@bibleminute.org.

Jesus is not only the Alpha; He's also the Omega and everything in between. What end does He have in mind for you?

"'He will wipe every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or sorrow or crying or pain. All these things are gone forever.'

"And the one sitting on the throne said, 'Look, I am making everything new!' And then he said to me, 'Write this down, for what I tell you is trustworthy and true.' And he also said, 'It is finished! I am the Alpha and the Omega--the Beginning and the End. To all who are thirsty I will give freely from the springs of the water of life'" (Revelation 21:4-6, NLT).

And that's the end!

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Aug 14, 2009
Topic: Salvation


Here Comes the Judge

A.W. Tozer wrote this stinging remark: "I think that most Christians would be better pleased if the Lord did not inquire into their personal affairs too closely. They want Him to save them, to keep them happy, and to take them off to heaven at last, but not to be too inquisitive about their conduct or services."*

The idea of a loving Savior who turns a blind eye to sin is nothing new, but is it the portrait of Christ we see in the Bible? Let's look at John's vision of the Savior to find the answer.

What Does God Say?

"Then I turned to see the voice that was speaking with me. And having turned I saw seven golden lampstands; and in the middle of the lampstands I saw one like a son of man, clothed in a robe reaching to the feet, and girded across His chest with a golden sash.

"His head and His hair were white like white wool, like snow; and His eyes were like a flame of fire.

"His feet were like burnished bronze, when it has been made to glow in a furnace, and His voice was like the sound of many waters.

"In His right hand He held seven stars, and out of His mouth came a sharp two-edged sword; and His face was like the sun shining in its strength" (Revelation 1:12-16, NASB).

    * John describes Jesus, literally, from head to toe. List the descriptive terms that John uses to portray Jesus' physical form. How do you think these descriptions apply to Jesus as a judge?
    * Out of Jesus' mouth came a sharp two-edged sword (Revelation 1:16). Compare Romans 13:4 (speaking of earthly rulers) and Hebrews 4:12 (referring to the Holy Spirit). What would John's description imply about Jesus' purpose?
    * What was John's response to this sight? How would you respond?

My Thoughts

The meek and gentle Jesus you may have learned about in Sunday school is not the One we find here in Revelation. John portrays Him as an awesome and fearful judge. No wonder many people fear standing before Him.

But if you know Christ as your Savior, you don't need to fear Him as your Judge. Believers still will be judged, but it will be a judgment for rewards, not salvation (2 Corinthians 5:10).

My Part

Live each day in the realization that judgment is coming. While Christians don't need to fear God's judgment when it comes to salvation, they need to live in conscious awareness that what they do each day will bring rewards or not. Name at least one thing you will do differently this week because you are aware of Christ's coming judgment.

*A.W. Tozer, That Incredible Christian, Christian Publications.

[nChrist]

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Date: Aug 17, 2009             

Topic: Christian Living/Situational     

Title: A Church That Made Jesus Sick

The establishment of the first church in a region may bring a fresh outlook on life, a new message of everlasting promise and the example of pure moral standards to the community. Changes can come like a breath of fresh air as zealous Christians express their relationship to Christ and demonstrate His presence and love in their midst.

In His messages to the seven churches in Revelation 2-3, Jesus praises some of the churches for the way they maintained a clear testimony to their townspeople; but, unfortunately, other churches had slipped away from their moorings and lost touch with God's purpose for their local fellowships.

The churches that tarnished their testimony for Christ fell in various ways, but they also shared a common fault that hurt their witness for Christ. Namely, they all allowed the sins of the community to become the sins of the church.

It happened that way to the church in Laodicea.

What Does God say?

Take a few minutes to read Revelation 3:14-22.

What three names does Christ call Himself in 3:14?

What characteristic of the church made Christ want to vomit (3:15)?

Laodiceans got their water by way of a man-made ditch from the town of Hierapolis and by the time it reached their city it was lukewarm and insipid. So, they should have known well what Christ was talking about when He called their spiritual attitude "lukewarm."

In Revelation 3:17, you see the Laodiceans' opinion of their church. What three things did they claim? Next, you find Christ's appraisal of their condition. What five words did He use to describe them?

Laodicea was a proud city, rich in material things and wealthy because of the banking industry there. The love of money and the good life had become the mark of the church as well. The materialistic life of the community infected their church to the point that they were spiritually wretched and impoverished.

Laodicea had three thriving businesses. First, financial institutions; second, beautiful clothing manufactured from black wool; and third, the medical preparation of a special ointment that was famous throughout the surrounding nations for healing eye diseases.

In Revelation 3:18-19 Jesus counsels the Christians in Laodicea to "buy" three items from Him. What are they? What assurance and warning does He give them in verse 19?

Christ presses them to turn their hearts back to the spiritual things that can save their church and to turn away from the worldly things that were destroying them. He offers them fine gold, the eternal riches of God, as compared to the worldly wealth of the community. He tells them to buy the pure, white clothing of heaven, in contrast to the luxurious material that made the city famous, and He offers the healing eye salve of salvation to cure their spiritual blindness.

My Thoughts

Revelation 3:20 is addressed to the church in Laodicea. It is sometimes used as an invitation of Christ to individual unbelievers to receive salvation. The famous painting, Christ Knocking at Heart's Door, fosters that idea. But in its context, the verse speaks of Christ calling at the door of a local church that has shut Him out and no longer fellowships with Him. He calls on all members of a church that has drifted away to repent and restore their zeal for the things of God, rather than the things of the world around them.

What does Christ promise to the conqueror (Revelation 3:21)?

My Part

Do you participate in a good local church? Every believer should. In the letters to the seven churches of Asia Minor, you can see all varieties of churches--some fervent, some frigid, some lukewarm. In our day, you can still find similar local churches.

 Take stock of your church. Try to see it through the eyes of God. Look for trends in your community that may be adversely affecting the attitudes of the church. Write down things that could be done to strengthen it spiritually. Pray for your fellowship and do your part to make it a local church that Christ can commend.

And memorize this great verse: Revelation 3:20, "Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and eat with him, and he with me."

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Aug 18, 2009
Topic: Other


The Lion and the Lamb

The four horsemen of the Apocalypse; the cry of martyrs; the sun going dark; the moon turning blood red; stars falling from the sky and earthquakes rocking the foundations of the earth. It's literally the beginning of the end. These are descriptions in Revelation 6 of the first six seal-judgments unleashed upon earth--"seal" as in the seals on a scroll. As each seal is broken, a new judgment is pronounced. When considering the severity of these judgments--and they're only the first of many--it's startling to look back one chapter and consider the One bringing about the end of the world.

What Does God Say?

In Revelation 5, John gives us an eyewitness report from the throne room of heaven. He writes, "And I saw a strong angel proclaiming with a loud voice, 'Who is worthy to open the scroll and break its seals?' And no one in heaven or on earth or under the earth was able to open the scroll or to look into it" (Revelation 5:2-3, ESV).

It's no light matter to bring judgment upon the whole earth. Only once before did God bring so much devastation to this planet. Immediately afterwards, He promised never again to destroy the earth by a flood. (See Genesis 6-8 ). Yet cataclysmic disasters will mark the end times.

John continues, "And one of the elders said to me..., "Behold, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has conquered, so that he can open the scroll and its seven seals" (Revelation 5:5, ESV).

The Lion of Judah, the Root of David, is Jesus. It seems fitting for One who comes as a Lion and as the Root of a great warrior to be the one to break the seals of judgment. But John's not finished.

"And between the throne and the four living creatures and among the elders I saw a Lamb standing, as though it had been slain....'Worthy are you to take the scroll and to open its seals, for you were slain, and by your blood you ransomed people for God from every tribe and language and people and nation'" (Revelation 5:6,9, ESV).

It's not Jesus the Lion who will break the seals of judgment but rather Jesus the slain Lamb. Judgment is no light matter in God's eyes. The portrait John paints of the slain Lamb breaking the seals on the scroll is a striking reminder of the lengths God has gone to prevent any one of us from having to face those terrible judgments.

My Thoughts

    * What makes the Lamb worthy to open the scroll?
    * What do these verses say about those who have accepted the Lamb's sacrifice?

My Part

Though God is more compassionate than we will ever fully comprehend, He won't withhold judgment forever. If you haven't decided where you stand with Jesus, do so today. Today He's holding out His hand to you and offering to forgive your sins. If you need more information, just let us know, we'll be glad to help. You can email us at info@bibleminute.org.

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Aug 19, 2009
Topic: Jesus, Heaven


The Lamb on the Throne

In the Bible we see Jesus in many roles, and we learn about Him because of the variety of ways He's portrayed. We see Him first as a baby, the promised Messiah; then we get to know Him as a man, a teacher and a leader. We see the Lord as a shepherd, a lamb and a king. All these written "pictures" of Him help us know who He is.

What Does God Say?

Today, look at three of the portraits of Him in the Scriptures and see if you get any fresh insights about your Savior. Let's begin with a look at Him as a "shepherd."

"I am the good shepherd; the good shepherd lays down His life for the sheep" (John 10:11, NASB).

"Like a shepherd He will tend His flock,
In His arm He will gather the lambs
And carry them in His bosom;
He will gently lead the nursing ewes" (Isaiah 40:11, NASB).

The LORD is my shepherd,
I shall not want.
He makes me lie down in green pastures;
He leads me beside quiet waters.
He restores my soul;
He guides me in the paths of righteousness
For His name's sake" (Psalm 23:1-3, NASB).

    * What is your understanding of Jesus from the above Scriptures?
    * Write down three things Jesus the Shepherd does for His sheep.
    * What one line in the above verses touches you? Get a mind picture of those few words and commit your picture and that line of Scripture to memory.

Second, see Him as the "Lamb of God." Hebrews 9:22 tells us, "without shedding of blood there is no forgiveness" (NASB). Read the following verses and answer the questions:

"The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, 'Look! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!' (John 1:29, NLT).

"And so, dear brothers and sisters, we can boldly enter heaven's Most Holy Place because of the blood of Jesus. By his death, Jesus opened a new and life-giving way through the curtain into the Most Holy Place" (Hebrews 10:19-20, NLT).

    * What is your understanding of Jesus from the above Scriptures?
    * Whose blood was shed to meet the requirement for the "shedding of blood" mentioned in Hebrews 9:22?
    * What has the Lamb of God done for you personally?

And, lastly, take a look at Jesus as the "Lamb who is worshipped."

"And I saw between the throne (with the four living creatures) and the elders a Lamb standing, as if slain, having seven horns and seven eyes, which are the seven Spirits of God, sent out into all the earth.

"And He came and took the book out of the right hand of Him who sat on the throne.

"When He had taken the book, the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb, each one holding a harp and golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints.

"And they sang a new song, saying, 'Worthy are You to take the book and to break its seals; for You were slain, and purchased for God with Your blood men from every tribe and tongue and people and nation" (Revelation 5:6-9, NASB).

"Then I looked, and I heard the voice of many angels around the throne and the living creatures and the elders; and the number of them was myriads of myriads, and thousands of thousands, saying with a loud voice, 'Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power and riches and wisdom and might and honor and glory and blessing.'

"And every created thing which is in heaven and on the earth and under the earth and on the sea, and all things in them, I heard saying, 'To Him who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb, be blessing and honor and glory and dominion forever and ever'" (Revelation 5:11-13, NASB).

    * What is your understanding of Jesus from the above Scriptures?
    * What is the Lamb doing in these verses?
    * Who bowed before the Lamb?
    * What were they holding?
    * What song did they sing?
    * What did the thousands around the throne say?
    * How did "every created thing...in heaven and on earth and under the earth and on the sea" respond?

My Thoughts

    * Why does the Bible picture Jesus as the Good Shepherd?
    * Why was there a need for a sacrificial Lamb?
    * Why would God honor Jesus by having everyone in heaven worship Him?

My Part

Jesus is important (necessary) for heaven and for your eternity; how have you responded to Him? Have you received Him?

How important is He in your daily life?

He is the Lamb sacrificed for your sins. Once you have accepted Him as your personal Savior, He is the Good Shepherd who cares for you. And one day when you stand before God, you will worship Him as worthy of all praise and glory and honor.

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Aug 20, 2009
Topic: Jesus, Heaven, Second Coming/Rapture/End Times


Pictures of Jesus

I grew up with all those pictures of Sunday-school-Jesus.

You know the ones, starting with Christmas-Jesus as a round-faced baby serenely snoozing while shepherds and wise men came and went. There's also the Bible-story-Jesus, all grown up and talking to people or healing them or sitting with children on His knee. He would be standing in a boat with His arms raised to calm the storm or chasing the merchants from the temple. Then there's Good-Friday-Jesus, hanging on His cross, with His sad face and bloodied body. I always liked getting to Easter-Jesus, glowing bright and standing beside an empty tomb with Mary.

But I don't really remember many pictures of Revelation-Jesus.

What Does God Say?

The Book of Revelation gives us pictures of Jesus often left out of Sunday school material, maybe because they're so hard to imagine. Look at Revelation 19:11-13: "Then I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse! The one sitting on it is called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he judges and makes war. His eyes are like a flame of fire, and on his head are many diadems, and he has a name written that no one knows but himself. He is clothed in a robe dipped in blood, and the name by which he is called is The Word of God" (ESV).

Jesus is the one sitting on the white horse, in a position of power and commanding the attention of the whole universe. He is called Faithful and True. That's not just a description of what He can do (be faithful, be truthful) but of what or who He is. His very essence is faithfulness and truth. He is righteous--perfectly equipped to judge fairly and justly, to wage war for all the right reasons. His eyes burn like flames of fire--a purifying, refining fire that cleanses and judges sin.

On Jesus' head are many diadems or crowns, another symbol of power and authority. Historically, a conquering king is given the crown of the king he's conquered to show that authority has now transferred to him. Jesus has conquered and overruled all other kings, so He bears many crowns. His robe is already dipped in blood because, even though the battle hasn't started, He shed His blood for our salvation. It's the mark of a battle already won. And His name: The Word of God. He is the embodied, sum total of the communication of God--He is the Word.

The description continues in Revelation 19:15-16, with Jesus, armed and ready for battle. An authoritative Jesus who is ready to judge and already and forever will be the King of kings and Lord of lords.

My Thoughts

Read Revelation 19:11-16 again with these questions in mind.

    * What does it mean to know that Jesus is Faithful and True?
    * What does His righteousness and judgment tell you about His view of sin? What might need to happen in your life because of this?
    * How does it influence your faith in Him to see Him with many crowns or with a robe dipped in blood?
    * What's so important about Him being the Word of God?
    * How do you respond to Jesus as the King of kings and Lord of lords?

My Part

How do you tend to picture Jesus? It's easy to leave it at a few favorite Bible stories, but we need to see the whole picture. Browse through other sections of Revelation to see how Jesus is portrayed. Or revisit passages like: Isaiah 52:13-53:12; Philippians 2:5-11; Colossians 1:15-20; Hebrews 1:1-12.

How would you teach your children about the Jesus you see in Revelation? What would you say to describe Him to a friend? If you're artistic, create your own visual of the Jesus you find in Revelation 19.

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Aug 21, 2009
Topic: Second Coming/Rapture/End Times


Red Alert

Six months after the terrorist attacks on the Twin Towers and the Pentagon, the U.S. government established a homeland security advisory system. The system is based on five color codes: green (low risk), blue (general risk), yellow (significant risk), orange (high risk) and red (severe risk).

If you were to apply this same color code to the Lord's return, it would certainly be red. Let's look at God's Word to find out why.

What Does God Say?

"Who then is the faithful and sensible slave whom his master put in charge of his household to give them their food at the proper time?

"Blessed is that slave whom his master finds so doing when he comes.

"Truly I say to you that he will put him in charge of all his possessions.

"But if that evil slave says in his heart, 'My master is not coming for a long time,'

 and begins to beat his fellow slaves and eat and drink with drunkards;

 the master of that slave will come on a day when he does not expect him and at an hour which he does not know,

 and will cut him in pieces and assign him a place with the hypocrites; in that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth" (Matthew 24:45-51, NASB).

    * What is the slave supposed to do while he awaits his master's return?
    * Why does the slave fail to meet his responsibilities?
    * What happens when his master returns and catches him unprepared?

My Thoughts

When the slave who was placed in charge of the household lost sight of his master's return, he began to live for himself. He started to associate with and take up the lifestyle of those who were worldly (drunkards). This describes a lot of Christians today. They have not gone out into the world (Matthew 28:19-20), but they have allowed the world to come into them.

However, according to Jesus, we should be living at Red Alert. He is coming on a day when we will not expect him and at an hour which we do not know. And the consequences will be severe. While we will not lose our salvation, we will have a tremendous loss of rewards. We will be treated as hypocrites (those who profess one thing while living another) and our sorrow will be great.

My Part

How would living at Red Alert change the decisions you are making today? List at least two things that you will do differently because the probability of Jesus' return is so high.

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Aug 24, 2009
Topic: Jesus, God


Jesus the Word

Jesus has many names: Messiah, the Christ, Savior, Shepherd, Lamb, King, etc. You can find them scattered throughout the pages of the Bible. Some names tell us about His authority or what He does for His people. Others give us a glimpse of His character as faithful, holy or righteous. One name carries a unique distinction: it reflects something about Jesus and about God the Father. It's "the Word of God."

What Does God Say?

Usually, we talk about the Bible as the Word of God. Everything that God has to say to us is recorded in this collection of writings we call the Bible. It reveals His plan from eternity past to eternity future. But Jesus is also the Word of God. Revelation 19:13 describes a future vision of Jesus, "He is clothed in a robe dipped in blood, and the name by which he is called is The Word of God" (ESV). He does in person what the Bible does in writing--reveal the truth of God to us. He is the Word--the whole communication--of God to man.

The Word is also used as a name or identifier for Jesus in John 1:1. "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God." As the Word, Jesus existed before time, before the beginning, with God and as God. This shows us that Jesus is not just connected to God, He is fully God. As the Word, we also learn that Jesus "was in the beginning with God" (John 1:2) and "All things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made" (John 1:3). The Word is how the creation of the world happened. Remember Genesis 1 records the act of creation? "And God said, 'Let there be light,' and there was light" (Genesis 1:3, ESV).God said--He spoke the word--and it happened. No guesswork; God--Father and Son--spoke and the world was created. Genesis 1 includes at least eight "God said" statements that brought our world into being and established man in God's image. It all happened by the Word.

The Word is a powerful concept throughout Scripture, directly referring to Jesus and indirectly to the communication from God to man. God wants to speak to us; to communicate His great love, mercy, holiness and purpose. And Jesus came to earth to put a human form to that communication. He spoke to us as God for God.

My Thoughts

In the Old Testament, you find many references to "the word of the Lord" or "God spoke to" followed by a message of instruction, judgment, guidance or prophecy. Use a concordance or an online "keyword search" such as the one at biblegateway.com to find some of these examples.

    * What were some of the messages God gave?
    * What does this tell you about God's desire to communicate with people?

What does it mean to know that Jesus is the Word? Read John 1:1-18 again and look for Jesus as the Word (and the light), keeping in mind that verses 6-8 refer to John the Baptist.

    * What does the Word do for those who believe?
    * What does He reveal about God the Father?
    * What do we receive from Him?
    * What does it mean for you personally to know Jesus as the Word?

My Part

Jesus communicates with us still--through the written word of Scripture and through the Spirit. It's good to see Scripture as the Word of God, revealing the mind of God, the heart of Christ and the power of the Spirit to us in a way we can understand and go back to again and again. In Revelation, John the apostle is told over and over to "write down" what he sees and hears so that others will know and anticipate what is to come. The whole Bible is put into your hands so that you can know the Word of God.

Picking up a study like this one is a great step; what else are you doing to get to know the Word of God? What do you do to listen to or read the message revealed by Jesus? What benefits have you seen in your life from connecting to the Word? How do you share it now with others?