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THE FOOLISHNESS OF THE CROSS!

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Frankly Speaking,

18 For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of GOD.

I Corinthians 1:18 NLT

THE FOOLISHNESS OF THE CROSS!  If you have attended church at any point in your life this statement might be offensive to you; however, for those who have avoided church: the statement may make perfect sense. Recently, someone told me that THE BIBLE is a book of fairy tales. Therefore, to some, the cross must seem like foolishness. For others, the Cross (and its Overcomer) is the very purpose for living.

Ironically, for both groups GOD has used the term “FOOLISHNESS” to help you understand a deeper meaning of the true foolishness involved. In the passage above, THE BIBLE says, “the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of GOD.”  THE BIBLE goes on to say, “For the foolishness of GOD is wiser than human wisdom, and the weakness of GOD is stronger than human strength.” (I Cor 1:25).

Consider for a moment, SIR ISAAC NEWTON who is known as “perhaps the greatest physicist who has ever lived.” He said of GOD,

This most beautiful system of the sun, planets and comets could only proceed from the counsel and dominion of an intelligent and powerful Being. And if the fixed stars are the centers of other like systems, these, being formed by the like wise counsel, must be all subject to the dominion of One; especially since the light of the fixed stars is of the same nature with the light of the sun.

Why is JESUS remembered by so many as the SAVIOR, and if there is a shred of TRUTH to the Cross shouldn’t you at least consider its TRUTH? After all, JESUS did not say the truth is merely a concept to consider. HE said, “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life; no one comes to the Father except through ME.” (John 14:6) EASTER is the living proof of this TRUTH. Happy EASTER! 😊

LIVING IN THE SHADOW OF THE CROSS

Blessings in CHRIST

Pastor Wes

I PETER 3:15

PASSION WEEK!

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Frankly Speaking,

8 Many in the crowd spread their garments

on the road ahead of HIM,

and others spread leafy branches they had cut in the fields.

9 JESUS was in the center of the procession,

and the people all around HIM were shouting,

“PRAISE GOD! BLESSINGS ON THE ONE

WHO COMES IN THE NAME OF THE LORD!

10 BLESSINGS ON THE COMING KINGDOM

OF OUR ANCESTOR DAVID!

PRAISE GOD IN HIGHEST HEAVEN!” (Matt 21:8-10)

PASSION WEEK BEGINS! ~ Why would anyone call the week of JESUS’ Death, Burial, and Resurrection “PASSION?” What does the word PASSION really mean? Webster’s dictionary first describes it as “the week between JESUS Last Supper and HIS death;” however, it’s also defined as “an object of deep desire or interest.” I believe both definitions work. JESUS had one purpose during HIS Incarnation; HE came to earth to rescue mankind.  Look what JESUS says in THE BIBLE,

“For THE SON OF MAN

came to seek and save

those who are lost.”

Luke 19:10

That is what this “PASSION WEEK” is all about. PALM SUNDAY marks the pinnacle of people’s expectations for JESUS to be Who they wanted HIM to be. Many are still doing the same thing today. GOOD FRIDAY and EASTER are the proof that HE came for you and me. Without HIM, there is no way to please GOD; otherwise, why did HE come and die? GOD really loves you!

Living in the Shadow of the Cross

Blessings in CHRIST

Pastor Wes

I Peter 3:15

REJOICE FAVORED ONE!

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FRANKLY SPEAKING,

“The angel said to her, ‘Rejoice, highly favored one,

THE LORD is with you; blessed are you among women!”

~ Luke 1:28b NKJV

REJOICE FAVORED ONE! Who was Mary? Why did GOD choose her? Why is she so special? How should we remember her? GOD said that she is “highly favored” and “blessed among woman.”  How ought we approach this amazing woman who was chosen throughout all time to be the woman who would give birth to the SAVIOR of the whole world. Does this mean that she is to be revered as the “Mother of GOD?”

We must be very careful here. If we hold to the doctrine of THE TRINITY, and Mary is the Mother of JESUS ~ THE SON OF GOD ~ THE INCARNATE GOD-MAN, AND HE AND HIS FATHER ARE ONE ~ then, by definition, she is the “Mother of GOD.” She must be different than any other woman who ever lived. Right? After all, GOD chose her, a virgin (Isaiah 7:14), to carry the SON OF GOD in her womb and raise HIM through HIS childhood!

Can we take this too far? Should we pray to Mary according to this prayer?

Hail, Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou amongst women and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death.  Amen.

Should we pray to Mary, not according to Scripture. All too often, we react to what others believe. We are offended because people think differently than we do. Mary is the mother of JESUS; therefore, she is to be honored, respected, and appreciated.  Nevertheless, Mary is not part of the TRINITY, nor is she GOD’S wife. This can quickly take us to a place that is far from the TRUTHS we find in THE WORD OF GOD. CHRISTMAS should always lead us to EASTER because JESUS is the reason for the season!

Remember, the focus of THE NATIVITY is that GOD sent HIS ONE and ONLY SON to save us from ourselves and sin. Every CHRISTMAS song and story should focus on and resoundingly proclaim that JESUS CHIRST IS BORN! 😊

Living in THE SHADOW of the CROSS

Blessings in CHRIST

~ Pastor Wes

~ I Peter 3:15

PS ~ To here more about Mary, check out https://www.facebook.com/groups/532629427668025

https://www.gotquestions.org/virgin-Mary.html

TO BE BLESSED or TO BE A BLESSING?

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FRANKLY SPEAKING,

One day he [Jabez] prayed to Israel’s God, “Please bless me and give me a lot of land. Be with me so I will be safe from harm.” And God did just what Jabez had asked. ~ I Chronicles 4:9-10 CEV

THE PRAYER OF JABEZ ~ I Am Blessed and Highly Favored! ~ I once received a shirt with the following words embroidered boldly on the front: “JESUS loves you, but I’m HIS favorite.” I snickered and casually laughed at the shirt, and I wore it a couple of times. Then, I began to think about what that shirt was really saying. I proudly said that JESUS loved me more than you. OUCH! I could not wear the shirt again in good conscience. That is the exact opposite of the GOSPEL Message. Listen to this verse (paraphrased just a bit) …

“GOD loved you so much HE sent HIS ONE and ONLY SON just for you; so that, if you believe in HIM with you whole life, you will not have to fear death because you will live forever in heaven with GOD.”

That verse in the Gospel of John chapter three. It is the truth of the whole Bible. In “the Prayer of Jabez,” we meet a man who was pure before GOD that GOD listened to him and answered his personal prayer. WOW! Who was Jabez for GOD to answer his prayer completely. After all, he is not one of those prophets or apostles from the BIBLE. In fact, these two verses contain just about everything we know about Jabez. I suspect his actual prayer sounded a lot more like this one rather than the version above. 😊

“Oh, that YOU would bless me indeed,

and enlarge my territory,

that YOUR hand would be with me,

and that YOU would keep me from evil,

that I may not cause pain!”

Remember what the LORD JESUS said in THE GOLDEN RULE: “Do to others what you want them to do to you.”  HE never implied that we should put ourselves first. In fact, here’s a great plan for our lives: JESUS, Others, then You. JOY! Let’s think of others before we think of ourselves. Give it a try! 😊

Living in THE SHADOW of the CROSS

Blessings in CHRIST

Pastor Wes

I Peter 3:15

PS ~ Here’s the link to that question about GOD hearing you.

https://www.gotquestions.org/God-please-help-me.html

GOD’S WORK ~ GOD’S WAY!

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FRANKLY SPEAKING,

But as THE ARK OF THE LORD’S COVENANT entered the City of David, Michal, the daughter of Saul, looked down from her window. When she saw King David skipping about and laughing with joy, she was filled with contempt for him. ~ I Chronicles 15:29

GOD’S WORK ~ GOD’S WAY! ~ Let’s review last week. King David wanted to move THE ARK OF THE COVENANT back to Jerusalem. He basically took a survey, and everyone thought it was “the right thing to do.” However, they left GOD out of the process. A man named Uzzah tried to steady THE ARK as it appeared to fall, and he was killed by GOD for touching THE ARK. We ended the sermon possibly thinking GOD was unfair. Go back and watch. 😊

FIRST, we must come to the realization that GOD is GOD, and we are not! When GOD makes a promise, HE never fails! HE promised HE would redeem us in Genesis 3:15, and HE fulfilled HIS promise. HE promised that HIS holiness was represented in THE ARK, and HE told the people exactly how to move it. HE warned them that if they touched it, then they would die. Why do we pick and choose when to believe GOD’S promises?  We argue with HIM when we disagree with HIS Promises? We seem to want Santa Claus instead of GOD!

SECOND, in today’s passage (I Chronicles 15:1-29), King David seeks GOD’S approval rather than a human consensus.  What a difference that makes! Too often, we, ministers, are more concerned with the opinion of the congregants rather than that of the CREATOR. When King David moved THE ARK ~ GOD’S WAY, everything went well and a HOLY GHOST party broke out. GOD first life!

THIRD, David danced for joy before THE LORD. He was not “showing off.” Michal’s reaction to King David’s worship is a vivid picture of our worship. (v 29 above) In my experience, someone somewhere is always filled with contempt whenever you worship GOD honestly and openly. It is too much for them to handle. Worship anyway! When worshiping GOD, never look out, look around, or look back. Always look up!  GOD’S WORK ~ GOD’S WAY!  😊

Living in THE SHADOW of the CROSS

Blessings in CHRIST

Pastor Wes

I Peter 3:15

Celebrating The Savior: The Lord’s Supper

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FRANKLY SPEAKING,

For as often as you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim THE LORD’S death till HE comes.

~ I Corinthians 11:26

MY HEART CHRIST’S HOME: CELEBRATING THE SAVIOR!  ~ What is THE LORD’S SUPPER? Why do so many churches celebrate THE LORD’S SUPPER in different ways? Who can participate in THE LORD’S SUPPER? What do I need to do to celebrate THE LORD’S SUPPER? What is the significance of THE LORD’S SUPPER? Where should we find the answers to these questions?

First, JESUS told us to gather in remembrance of HIM as we eat the bread and drink from the cup because they represent HIS death, burial, and RESSURECTION! Some people observe THE LORD’S SUPPER every week while others do not have a set pattern. This is true because no pattern is set forth in SCRIPTURE.

Any person who has been born-again (John 3:1-18) may join us in the observance of THE LORD’S SUPPER. This is known as an OPEN TABLE observance. However, others hold to a CLOSED TABLE observance which means only members of their congregation may participate.

Often this gathering and observance is very formal and follows a strict pattern. Others, like us, tend to have a varied format allowing us to approach the table in new and fresh ways as we seek the presence of THE LORD during HIS SUPPER. This is an informal personal approach.

Some believe that the bread (Host) and the wine literally become the Body and Blood of CHRIST.  This is known as the Eucharist, and is observed in more liturgical churches.  We see this as an ordinance which was commanded by THE LORD to be followed symbolically.  Our only manual is the BIBLE! To us, this is a very private and intimate time.

Finally, during THE LORD’S SUPPER we remember that JESUS died for each of us. Reflecting on how HE gave HIS life to save us from our sin. Through this ordinance, we also declare that JESUS is COMING AGAIN!

Have been back to church since COVID began? Isn’t it time to gather with others and celebrate JESUS at HIS table? Find a local church and gather with them so that you can be a fully devoted follower of JESUS who worships, grows, and serves others in the local church. Isn’t it time? 🙂

Living in THE SHADOW of the CROSS

Blessings in CHRIST

Pastor Wes

I Peter 3:15

FELLOWSHIP ~ THE FAMILY ROOM

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FRANKLY SPEAKING,

“3 that which we have seen and heard we declare to you, that you also may have fellowship with us; and truly our fellowship is with THE FATHER and with HIS SON JESUS CHRIST. 4 And these things we write to you that your joy may be full.” ~ I John 1:3-4 NKJV

MY HEART CHRIST’S HOME: THE FAMILY ROOM! ~ In the first century, when the NEW TESTAMENT was written, there were no churches like the ones we have today. There were no modern denominations wooing us to their team. 😊 We often find ourselves looking at THE BIBLE as if it were written in our Post-Modern society with cars, technology, and much more. It was NOT!

So, how then do we apply what we read in THE BIBLE written so long ago to our lives today? Here’s what I will say every time: “It all begins with a relationship with JESUS CHRIST!” 😊 HE left heaven, lived HIS life on earth, and died for you! All this, so that, your broken relationship with GOD could be mended through HIS blood. That begins your FELLOWSHIP with GOD!

Well, do I have to go to a church according to the BIBLE? NO! However, you do have to meet with other followers of JESUS to encourage them and to be encouraged. The best way to do this is to find a church where THE BIBLE is taught and preached truthfully, openly, and honestly. That is how you grow in fellowship with GOD and man as a true believer in JESUS!

How’s your FELLOWSHIP METER? 😊

Living in THE SHADOW of the CROSS

Blessings in CHRIST,

Pastor Wes

I Peter 3:15

Check out this link:

https://www.gotquestions.org/fellowship-with-God.html

BLESSED IS THE NATION WHOSE GOD IS THE LORD!

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FRANKLY SPEAKING,

11 THE COUNSEL OF THE LORD STANDS FOREVER, THE PLANS OF HIS HEART TO ALL GENERATIONS. 12 BLESSED IS THE NATION WHOSE GOD IS THE LORD, THE PEOPLE HE HAS CHOSEN AS HIS OWN INHERITANCE.

13 THE LORD LOOKS FROM HEAVEN; HE SEES ALL THE SONS OF MEN. ~ Psalm 33:11-13 NKJV

“BLESSED IS THE NATION WHOSE GOD IS THE LORD!”  ~ How do we know if a nation belongs to the LORD? What exactly does a “nation” look like whose “GOD IS THE LORD?” Does it only matter if the president claims to be a GOD -fearing CHRIST-follower? What about congress, the senate, supreme court judges, governors, and mayors? After all, our money still says, “In GOD we trust,” right? Maybe… it’s the journalists who report the news? Or, could it be the entertainment industry that sets our moral standard? I doubt it…

We might say, “It’s ‘the nation’ which is ‘the people.’” I agree, but how many people must believe in GOD and live for HIM?  Is it a vote that needs 51% to win the election? Let’s consider the exclusive statements of our LORD JESUS CHRIST: HE said, “I am the only way…” (John 14:6a) 

9 that if you confess with your mouth the LORD JESUS and believe in your heart that GOD has raised HIM from the dead, you will be saved. 10 For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. ~ Romans 10:9-10

I am confident that the GOD who wants “all to come to repentance…” (II Peter 3:9b) has a different standard. HE searches one heart at a time! That’s why each of us must choose to make OUR “HEARTS CHRIST’S HOME.” Thus, we begin the study today leading one heart at a time to surrender, confess, and follow JESUS by giving HIM every area of our lives: one room at a time. HE’S at the door… will you respond? 😊

Living in THE SHADOW of the CROSS

Blessings in CHRIST

Pastor Wes

I Peter 3:15

GREATEST MOTHERS OF ALL TIME!

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FRANKLY SPEAKING,

30 Charm is deceptive, and beauty does not last; but a woman who fears the LORD will be greatly praised. 31 Reward her for all she has done. Let her deeds publicly declare her praise.

Proverbs 31:10-31 NLT

THE GREATEST MOTHERS OF ALL TIME! MOM, MOTHER, MOMMA, MAMA, GRANDMA, MIMI, MEMAW, etc.… What incredible gifts to all children. Take a moment to think of one of those times that your mom and/or grandma made everything better. Maybe it was something a small as a skinned knee, or it could be that moment where the world felt as though it was closing in on you. There was mom; encouraging you through the worst of times.

I remember so many times my mom desperately wanted to make everything better. Every time I broke a bone, failed a test, or had a car accident She would make me a banana sandwich, or her spaghetti goulash. She would just be there. Another time, I was staying with my grandmother, and my leg cramped up so badly I was screaming in pain. She took me for a wale in the cool morning. It went away. Then, she took out some crayons and taught me how to color using my finger to shade. Such simple moments that mean the world to me as an adult. Listen to this:

I remember your genuine faith, for you share the faith that first filled your grandmother Lois and your mother, Eunice. And I know that same faith continues strong in you.       II Timothy 1:5 NLT

I am sure you have great stories of your mom and grandmothers. Take time to remember those wonderful moments. Also, call out to GOD on behalf of your children, and stand in the gap for them as they navigate the treacherous waters toward and through adulthood. Give them JESUS every day you can ~ HIS Word lasts forever! ~ By the way, they are probably telling some of their favorite stories about you even now. 😊

Living in THE SHADOW of the CROSS

Blessings in CHRIST

Pastor Wes

I Peter 3:15

EASTER ~ A NEW DAY

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FRANKLY SPEAKING,

30 When JESUS had tasted it, HE said, “IT IS FINISHED!”

Then HE bowed HIS head and gave up HIS SPIRIT. ~ John 19:30 NLT

EASTER ~ A NEW DAY! ~ Why is EASTER such a big deal to followers of JESUS CHRIST? No doubt some of you will dismiss the question, but think about all the people who have no idea why our sacred holiday is such a big deal. There are specific reasons for which we cannot merely settle for a bunny, flowers, and a feel-good holiday. We believe in the cross & the empty tomb!

For the Christian, EASTER is the proof of our faith because, without the resurrection, JESUS could not be the ONLY BEGOTTEN SON of GOD. However, the truth of this event goes so much deeper. Our great hope comes from the words, “HE IS RISEN JUST AS HE SAID!” EASTER morning gives us confidence and makes us seek JESUS to guide us daily. C. S. Lewis said it so well:

“I believe in CHRIST, like I believe in the sun —

not because I can see it, but by it I can see everything else.”

We each fall so far short of earning heaven every day.  Our sin divorces us from GOD and HIS love. Nevertheless, the BIBLE says,

“When we were utterly helpless, CHRIST came at just the right time and died for us sinners. Now, most people would not be willing to die for an upright person, though someone might perhaps be willing to die for a person who is especially good. But GOD showed HIS great love for us by sending CHRIST to die for us while we were still sinners.”              

(Romans 5:6-8 NLT)

This is why EASTER is so important to us! Now, the choice is yours:

“The message of the cross is foolish to those who are headed for destruction! But we who are being saved know it is the very power of GOD.”

(I Corinthians 1:18 NLT)

Have you started A NEW DAY by giving your life to GOD and be saved? 😊

Living in THE SHADOW of the CROSS

Blessings in CHRIST

Pastor Wes

I Peter 3:15