Embracing an Outreaching Lifestyle
  • Unexpected Opportunity
  • Resources
  • Blog

Learn to Fish Like a Fisherman

5/6/2019

0 Comments

 
Picture
Alexander the Great was not satisfied, even when he had completely subdued the nations. He wept because there were no more worlds to conquer, and he died at an early age in a state of debauchery.

Hannibal, who filled three bushels with the gold rings taken from the knights he had slaughtered, committed suicide by swallowing poison. Few noted his passing, and he left this earth completely unmourned.

Julius Caesar, staining his garments in the blood of one million of his foes, conquered 800 cities, only to be stabbed by his best friends at the scene of his greatest triumph.

Napoleon, the feared conqueror, after being the scourge of Europe, spent his last years in banishment. (Pulpit Resource, G.S. Bowles)
They failed to live out Christ’s purpose in life. In my last blog, we saw that Jesus told Peter. Andrew, James, and John to follow Him to become fishers of men (Matthew 4:17-22). They lived out Christ’s purpose in life. We can learn at least four principles from real fishermen on how to become a fisher of men.

Patience and Perseverance
It takes many hours to catch a fish. The same is true in sharing our faith. Jesus went throughout Galilee teaching in the synagogues, preaching good news of the kingdom, and healing every disease and sickness (severe pain, demon-possessed, epileptics and paralytics). Patience and perseverance resulted in large crowds following him (Matthew 4:23-25)

Because of the crowd, four men cut an opening in the roof above Jesus. They lowered a mat a paralyzed man was lying on to bring him before Jesus (Mark 2:1-5). They showed great patience and perseverance.

Good instincts
We must go to certain spots where fish are biting and be ready to catch them. Jesus told Levi, a tax collector, to follow Him. Jesus ate at his house with other sinners. He didn’t call the righteous, but the humble who knew their sin (Mark 2:13-17). Jesus returned in the power of the Holy Spirit to minister in Galilee (Luke 4:14; Matthew 4:23-25). Sensitivity to the timing and leading of the Holy Spirit enables one to take advantage of spur-of-the-moment opportunities.

Skill
A good fisherman knows his tools: how to cast out his line, and right bait and timing for certain kinds of fish. Similarly, fishers of men have the Word of God and Holy Spirit’s leading for their tools. Jesus said His mission was walking in the Holy Spirit and proclaiming good news/liberty to four categories of people: poor (helpless, brokenhearted, no wealth, position, or influence); captives (unable to be free from bad habits, physical addiction, lust for money, and ways of the world); blind (spiritually blind, unbelief, and prideful); and oppressed (beaten and broken down by worldly authorities) (Luke 4:18-19).

Know how to work together.
When a fish is hooked, your buddy stands by with a net. Jesus sent out His disciples in twos (Mark 6:7; Luke 10:1). As one person shares, the other person can pray.
Jesus’ told His disciples to let down their nets in the deep for a catch. So many fish caused their nets to break (Luke 5:1-11). Discover these four principles in this passage: patience and perseverance, good instincts, skill, and know how to work together.

Overcome your fear and fulfill your purpose to preach the gospel because people are going to hell without Christ (Luke 4:43; 5:10).
​

To see more blogs, go to www.markpomeroy.com

Submit
0 Comments

How to Regain Purpose and Hope

4/29/2019

0 Comments

 
Picture
Our mission agency, Christ For the City Int’l, spent a day serving during our bi-annual board meetings. During lunch, I sat down next to a man eating alone. I asked, “How’s your day going?”

After an awkward pause, he opened up. I sensed a melancholy spirit. He said his wife of 34 years died in his arms four years ago. She was the love of his life with a “beautiful spirit inside and out.”

This man turned to alcohol and his life spiraled out of control. He remarried, but temporarily lost touch with his second wife. I prayed out loud. Tears seeped out of his eyes. This man once had been a deacon in an evangelical church, but now seemed to have lost all hope.

How do we lose purpose and hope? How do we regain it?

We find a clue in Jesus’ temptations in the wilderness, mentioned three times (Matthew 4:1-11; Mark 1:12-13; Luke 4:1-12). He was led by the Spirit and tempted by the devil. The first was self-gratification (lust of the flesh). If you’re the Son of God, meet the physical need by turning stones into bread. Jesus, like us, need God’s word to withstand the temptation (Matthew 4:1-4).

The second temptation was self-promotion (lust of the eyes). The devil had Jesus stand on the highest point of the temple and throw Himself down. The devil twisted Scripture. Jesus said not to put God to the test (Matthew 4:5-7).

The third temptation was self-exaltation (boastful pride of life). The devil showed all the kingdoms of the world and their splendor so Jesus would worship him. Jesus said to worship and serve God only (Matthew 4:8-11).

Before the temptations, Jesus had a mountain top experience--heaven was opened, saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and heard an affirming voice of unconditional love from heaven (Matthew 3:16-17). When things go well and you feel blessed, beware the devil will blast you with chaos, confusion, and criticism.

After the temptations, Jesus preached, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near.” Jesus told Peter. Andrew, James, and John to follow Him to become fishers of men. (Matthew 4:17-22). The devil doesn’t want you to share the gospel or disciple others. 
 

On the encouraging side, angels, ministering spirits to serve believers, helped Jesus and will attend to you (Mark 1:12-13; Hebrews 1:14).

If we resist temptation, share our faith and begin discipling others, evil forces will come against us. We must walk in Christ’s authority and drive out evil spirits (Mark 1:21-28). 

​Because we’re in a spiritual battle, we must fight with the spiritual weapons of prayer and God’s word.
  • It’s important we follow the example of Jesus and pray, preferably early in the morning (Mark 1:35).
The devil is crafty and leaves us until an opportune time. He knows our weaknesses. In Jesus’ case, everyone praised Him as the word got around (Luke 4:13-15). Seeking the praise of others may prevent us from sharing the gospel and discipling others.   

Don’t love the world, which include the lust of the flesh, lust of the eyes, and boastful pride of life. Those who do God’s will live forever (1 John 2:15-17).

The greatest purpose and hope we have in life are to follow Jesus in catching men for Him.
​

To read past blogs, go to https://www.markpomeroy.com/ 

​
0 Comments

Preach the Gospel Without Fear and Doubt (Insights in NT)

2/10/2011

1 Comment

 
Picture
Fear and doubt are the two main reasons why people don't share the gospel with others. You fear that people will think you are a religious fanatic if you share the gospel with them. You doubt that the gospel makes a difference in someone's life so you keep quiet. Supernatural signs including life transformation and healing the sick prove the gospel is true and sufficient because Christ rose from the dead and sits at the right hand of God. 

Mary Magdalene, Mary mother of James, and Salome noticed the huge stone gone from the entrance of Christ's tomb. A young man clothed with a white robe told them that Jesus had risen from the dead. He instructed them to tell the disciples and Peter that He was going before them into Galilee where they would see Him. They trembled and said nothing to anyone because they were afraid (Mark 16:1-8). Seeing Christ's supernatural working can cause fear so you remain quiet.


Jesus first appeared to Mary Magdalene from whom He had cast out seven demons. His disciples doubted that she saw Him alive. Jesus appeared in a different form to two disciples while they were walking and others didn't believe their report (Mark 16:9-13). Sharing Christ's supernatural working with others can cause doubts in them.

In spite of fear and doubts, go into all the world and and preach the gospel to all creation so people can believe. Supernatural miracles of casting out demons, speaking in new tongues and healing the sick accompany those who believe. Because the Lord Jesus sits at the right hand of God, He confirms the word with signs as you preach (Mark 16:14-20). 

Experiencing God's perfect love for you removes fear. Having faith in Christ's resurrection and His sitting at the right hand of God removes doubt. Now preach the gospel to all the world.

1 Comment

Sacrifice Leads to Success (Insights in NT)

2/5/2011

0 Comments

 
Picture
Our society rewards glitz and glamour. We live in an impatient society. Enron's "creative" accounting practices show that companies often look for short-term profits instead of long-term health and sustainability. Employees get promoted based on image and style instead of character and substance. Movie stars get publicity because of their looks and wild lifestyle, not because of serving humankind. Politicians say and do whatever it takes to get elected and often forget to deliver on their campaign promises. Pastors are tempted to tone down their messages so they don't offend major donors. Students cheat on exams so they can get good grades to enter prestigious universities.  Jesus's way of the cross cuts against the grain of our human thinking. As athletes know, the sacrifice in training and preparation leads to ultimate success. Let's consider what we can learn by Christ's example.

After the religious leaders bound and led Jesus to Pilate , he asked Christ if He was King of the Jews. By not answering his question, chief priests accused Him of many things, which amazed Pilate that Jesus made no further answer (Mark 15:1-5). When others attack your character, don't defend yourself. 

Chief priests stirred up multitude to ask for release of notorious criminal, Barabbas, instead of Jesus. When Pilate asked what evil He had done realizing their actions were motivated out of evil and what He should do with Christ,  they shouted repeatedly, “Crucify Him!” Wishing to satisfy the public, Pilate released Barabbas and had Jesus scourged and delivered to be crucified (Mark 15:6-15). Politicians and even religious leaders often do focus groups to determine public opinion as a way to gain popularity instead of teaching people how to think for themselves.

The soldiers placed a crown of thorns on Jesus, mocked Him as “King of the Jews,” beat Him with a reed and led Him away to be crucified (Mark 15:16-20). Those who think outside the box by questioning the establishment that take people out of their comfort zones are often silenced and even crucified out of envy.

They crucified Christ in the third hour with two robbers on each side of Him to fulfill Scripture, “And He was numbered with transgressors.” The soldiers divided up His garments among themselves and wrote inscription of the charge against Him, “The King of the Jews.” Those passing by hurled abuse saying, “Ha! You who are going to destroy the temple and rebuild it in three days, save Yourself, and come down from the cross!” Chief priests, scribes and those crucified with Him mocked Christ saying, “He saved others? He cannot save Himself. Let this Christ, the King of Israel, now come down from the cross, so that we may see and believe!” (Mark 15:21-32).  Serve and communicate with humility focusing on the ultimate goal instead of  spectacular results, with the hope that people notice you. 

In the ninth hour, Jesus cried out, “My God, My God, why has Thou forsaken Me?” Some thought He was calling for Elijah. When Jesus died, the veil of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom. A centurion standing in front of Him said, “Truly this man was the Son of God!” Some women who used to follow and minister to Jesus looked at Him from a distance including Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, Joses and Salome, and many other women (Mark 15:33-41). Unexpected people comprehend the truth when you go against the grain of the establishment.

A prominent member of the Council, Joseph of Arimathea, gathered up courage to ask Pilate for the body of Jesus. Joseph wrapped Jesus in a linen cloth, laid Him in a tomb hewn out of rock and rolled a stone against the entrance. The two Mary’s looked on to see where He was laid (Mark 15:42-47). Your example inspires others to risk their reputation to fulfill vital roles in making the world a better place. 


Human and logical thinking oppose God's plan of the cross. We reason that being politically correct by not talking about Christ and His way of the cross will make people accept us so we can exert greater influence. It's just the reverse. Sacrifice and not easy solutions lead to success. Focusing on long-term strategies instead of short-term, superficial gains will make our cities better places to live, both individually and corporately. As you will see in Mark 16, the cross is the only way to ultimate victory. 

Answer these questions:
1. When others attack your character, do you remain silent instead of defending yourself?
2. Do you help people think for themselves instead of being concerned about popularity?
3. Do you take people out of their comfort zones thinking of their long-term welfare? 

4. Do you focus on the ultimate goal instead of spectacular results hoping people will notice you?
5. Are unexpected people comprehending and following your example?
Ask God to develop your character so you can answer, yes, to these questions.



0 Comments

What's Leading You Astray from Christ? (Insights in NT)

1/30/2011

0 Comments

 
Picture
Life contains many mine fields disguised as distractions and desires of your sinful nature seeking to kill you. Everything in this world conspires to lead you astray from the simplicity and pure devotion to Christ. Religious leaders sought to kill Him. His disciples turned away from Him. Only one woman in Mark 14 lavished praise on Him. What's leading you astray from Christ?

With Passover and Unleavened Bread two days away, chief priests and scribes sought how to capture and kill Christ (Mark 14:1-2). 


A woman lavishly poured costly perfume of pure nard over Christ in the home of Simon the leper. Some scolded her saying she wasted the perfume since the money saved could be given to the poor. Jesus told them to leave her alone since she had done a good deed of anointing His body beforehand for burial and people will remember her when the gospel is preached (Mark 14:3-9). 


Money motivated Judas to seek an opportune time to betray Jesus to the chief priests (Mark 14:10-11). 

In preparing the sacrificial Passover lamb, He asked the disciples to follow a man carrying a pitcher of water.  When he entered a house, He instructed them to ask the owner for the guest room, which would be a large furnished upper room, where "I may eat the Passover with My disciples" (Mark 14:12-16). 

While eating, Jesus predicted one would betray Him. All the disciples were grieved and said, "Surely, not I?" Jesus said it would have been better for that man not to have been born (Mark 14:17-21). 

Jesus broke bread saying it was His body. After they all drank from a cup, He said this was His blood of the covenant poured out for many. None would drink of the fruit of the vine until that day when "I drink it new in the kingdom of God" After singing a hymn, they went to the Mount of Olives (Mark 14:22-26).  

Jesus predicted they all would fall away because Scripture said that striking the Shepherd caused the sheep to scatter, but after He had been raised, He would go before them to Galilee. Peter said he would not fall away, but Christ said he would deny Him three times (Mark 14:27-31). 

When they came to Gethsemane, Jesus took Peter, James and John with him. While there, He became very distressed and troubled as His soul was deeply grieved to the point of death. He prayed that God would remove the cup so He wouldn't have to die, concluding, "yet not what I will, but what Thou wilt." Three times He found His disciples sleeping and not watching, even for one hour. He exhorted them to keep watching and praying so they not come into temptation because, the spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak. The Son of Man then was betrayed into the hands of sinners (Mark 14:32-42). 

Judas accompanied by a multitude of religious leaders with swords and clubs, captured and led Christ under guard. Christ told them everyday He was teaching in the temple and they didn't sieze Him, but this happened so "Scriptures might be fulfilled." His disciples left Him and fled including a young man wearing nothing but a linen sheet over his naked body (Mark 14:43-52). 

Peter followed Jesus at a distance while He was led away to the high priest. The religious leaders and whole Council kept trying to obtain testimony to put Him to death. Jesus kept silent and made no answer to false testimony against Him. After the high priest asked if He was the Messiah, Jesus answered, "I am and you shall see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of power, and coming with the clouds of heaven." Because of His "blasphemy," they condemned Him to death. Some spat at Him and others blindfolded and beat Him with their fists and said, "Prophesy!" (Mark 14:53-65). 

Peter denied three times that he was with Jesus to a servant-girl, maid and bystanders, by answering, "I do not know this man you are talking about!" Peter wept after remembering Jesus saying, "Before a cock crows twice, you will deny Me three times" (Mark 14:66-72). 

Let’s look at these 11 paragraphs in a chiastic structure as follows from the first through the eleventh paragraphs: A; B; C; D; E; F; E'; D'; C'; B'; A’. We group together the content contained in A & A’; B & B’, etc. Here are my conclusions: 
1. Fear of man minimizes the effects of Christ's death so you deny His work on your behalf (A & A').
2. Instead of following the world's desires, follow the woman's example of lavish and sacrificial worship by spending time in prayer and listening to God (B & B').
3. Money can be security blanket preventing you from hearing and obeying Christ's radical teaching to take up your cross and follow Him (C & C').
4. Watching, praying and spending time with Christ prevents succumbing to temptation since the spirit is willing but the flesh is weak (D & D').
5. Beware of severe consequences in boasting that you won't fall away and deny Christ (E & E'). 
6. The focal point of your life should be the simplicity and purity of devotion to Christ through His shed blood (F).

Consider the theme of Mark 14 (item #6) summarized in 2 Cor. 11:3-4 since it's easy to be led astray from the simplicity and pure devotion to Christ in the following ways:   
1. Is fear of man leading you astray from the simplicity and pure devotion to Christ? 
2. Are the world's desires leading you astray from the simplicity and pure devotion to Christ?
3. Is acquisition of more money leading you astray from the simplicity and pure devotion to Christ?
4. Is laziness in prayer leading you astray from the simplicity and pure devotion to Christ?
5. Is over-confidence leading you astray from the simplicity and pure devotion to Christ?
 





0 Comments

Are You Ready for Christ's Second Coming? (Insights in NT)

1/23/2011

0 Comments

 
Picture
Reading the newspaper headlines about natural disasters, terrorist attacks and relational unrest throughout the world have tendency to create fear. Remember these are birth pangs for Christ's Second Coming. Instead of being anxious, prepare yourself spiritually by putting your hope in Christ, not in things of this world. Christ comforts and encourages, while the world overwhelms and discourages. Since the disciples faced an uncertain future as persecution increased around Christ and themselves, He gave them the big picture surrounding His Second Coming.  

As Jesus was going out of the temple, He told the disciples that every stone would be torn down from it. They asked when these things would take place and the sign for their fulfillment (Mark 13:1-4).

Jesus said the beginning of birth pangs would see many deceivers coming in His name, hear of wars and rumors of war, nations and kingdoms rising against each other and earthquakes & famines occurring in various places (Mark 13:5-8). Intense spiritual deception, natural disasters and political chaos are signals to prepare for Christ's Second Coming. 

He exhorted the disciples to be on guard since they will be hated and many put to death on account of Christ. The Holy Spirit will tell them what to say as a testimony, especially when suffering persecution from religious leaders, family members and civil leaders since the gospel must first be preached to all nations (Mark 13:9-13). Severe persecution accelerates the spread of the gospel into all nations.  

When you see the Abomination of Desolation standing where it should not be, flee to the mountains for great tribulation is coming. False Christs and prophets will show signs and wonders to even lead believers astray (Mark 13:14-23). Trusting in Christ and His provision protects you from evil political and spiritual authorities.  

After the tribulation and immediately before Christ comes back in the clouds with great glory, the sun and moon will be darkened, stars will fall from heaven and powers in the heaven will be shakened. At His coming, the angels will gather believers together from the earth. When you see these things occurring, know Christ is coming soon. No one knows the exact time except God the Father. Be on the alert for His sudden appearing since His words won't pass away (Mark 13:24-37). Be alert for natural signs and spiritually prepared in readiness for Christ's Second Coming.  

Rate yourself on a scale (1 being lowest and 10 highest) concerning your alertness (opposite of apathy) on the following principles that were underlined above: 

1. Intense spiritual deception, natural disasters and political chaos are signals to prepare for Christ's Second Coming. 
2. Severe persecution accelerates the spread of the gospel into all nations. 
3. Trusting in Christ and His provision protects you from evil political and spiritual authorities.  
4. Be alert for natural signs and spiritually prepared in readiness for Christ's Second Coming (blog on Mark 12 explains how to be spiritually prepared)


0 Comments

Why Jesus Came to Earth (Insights in NT)

1/18/2011

1 Comment

 
Picture
Like in Jesus' day, people are confused why Jesus came to earth. A Muslim will shrug his shoulders if you ask him for a solution after doing something wrong.  A Hindu will tell you maybe you can get it right in your next life.  A psychiatrist will tell you, "You need some counseling, step in my office. Oh, that'll be $200 per hour once a week." Jesus Christ offers His disciples a relationship with God and forgiveness of sins, whereas in other religions people perform certain rituals and rites hoping to please God.  Through Christ's dialogue with religious leaders and the crowd, He pointed out four "F's"--foundation, focus, force and foremost priority of life--that amazed both His opponents and those receptive to His message. These four "F's" explain why Jesus came to earth. 

To illustrate His past circumstances, Jesus spoke a parable about a man planting a vineyard and sending slaves to vine-growers at harvest time to receive produce. The vine-growers beat the first slave and sent him away empty-handed. The second was wounded in the head and treated badly. The third slave was killed along with many others. Finally, the vineyard owner sent a beloved son expecting him to be respected. Jesus compared his killing to Himself, "The stone which the builders rejected, this became the chief cornerstone" (Mark 12:1-12). How amazing to consider the cross or crucified Jesus as the foundation of life.

Hypocritical Pharisees and Herodians attempted to trap Jesus by asking if it's lawful to pay a poll-tax to Caesar. He answered, "Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's and to God the things that are God's" (Mark 12:13-17).  How amazing to consider your calling involves living in the world without being entangled.

Sadducees who believed in no resurrection questioned Jesus concerning which of his seven wives a husband would be married to in heaven. He answered that they "do not understand the Scriptures or the power of God" since people live forever like angels in heaven. He is God of the living when He told Moses that "I am God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob" (Mark 12:18-27). How amazing to consider that Christ's resurrection power imparts eternal life beginning now in this life.

A scribe asked Jesus what is the foremost commandment. He answered that loving God with all your heart, soul, mind and strength along with loving your neighbor as yourself are the greatest commandments. Jesus commended the scribe for his understanding that these were "much more than all burnt offerings and sacrifices" (Mark 12:28-34). How amazing to consider your most important priority is loving God and others.  

Even though no one asked Him any more questions, Jesus asked how Christ could be the son of David when he calls Him Lord in Ps. 110: 1 (Mark 12:35-37). How amazing to consider the person of Christ as both God and man.  

He warned them to reflect on the  greater condemnation scribes received when they sought favor and honor from men, but devoured widows' houses and offered long prayers for appearance's sake (Mark 12:38-40). How amazing to consider that God values doing justice for the less fortunate more than religious observances. 

Jesus pointed out that a "poor widow put in more than all the contributors to the treasury" even though many rich people put in large sums. They put in their surplus while she "out of her poverty, put in all she owned, all she had to live on" (Mark 12:41-44). How amazing to consider that God looks upon the heart, while man looks on appearances. 

Let’s look at these seven paragraphs in a chiastic structure as follows from the first through the seventh paragraph: A; B; C; D; C’; B’; A’. We group together the content contained in A & A’; B & B’, etc. Here are my conclusions: 

1. The foundation of your life is experiencing the sufferings of the cross through Christ's death (A & A’)
  2. The focus of your life is doing justice with the less fortunate while not entangled in religious observances (B & B’)
  3. The force of your life is Christ's resurrection power since He is both God and man (C & C’).
  4. The foremost priority of your life is loving God with all your heart, mind & soul and loving your neighbor as yourself (D). 


The above four "F's" can be summarized by Phil. 3:10-12. Meditate on this passage and ask God to make the cross the foundation of your life (attitude), doing justice the focus of your life (action), Christ's resurrection power the force of your life (empowerment) and loving God and others the foremost priority of your life (passion). 





1 Comment

Focus On Prayer, Not Money (Insights in NT)

1/12/2011

0 Comments

 
Picture
George Mueller lived during the 1800s and prayed in millions of dollars (in today’s currency) to meet the needs of his orphan houses. He never asked  anyone directly for money, but trusted God to put in people's hearts to send him what he needed. He never took out a loan or went into debt. And neither he nor the orphans were ever hungry. Mueller's calling: The orphan houses exist to display that God can be trusted and to encourage believers to take him at his word. He was grieved that “so many believers . . . were harassed and distressed in mind, or brought guilt on their consciences, on account of not trusting in the Lord.” He wanted to show everyone that God is faithful and still answers prayer. In Mark 11, Jesus teaches people to pray and take Him at His word because He answers prayer. 

Jesus sent two disciples to find a colt for His triumphal entry. People brought the colt to Him and spread their garments and branches in the road. They cried out, "Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord; blessed is the coming kingdom of our father David; Hosanna in the highest!" (Mark 11:1-10). Allow God have triumphal entry in your life so His kingdom comes into the world. 


Jesus cast out those buying and selling in the temple and overturned the tables of the moneychangers. He taught that His house should be a house of prayer for all the nations instead of a robbers' den. The religious leaders sought to destroy Him but the multitude was astonished at His teaching (Mark 11:15-18). Focus on prayer, not money and self-interest. 

Jesus exhorted His disciples to have faith in God and not doubt in their heart so they would believe He grants what He says. He told them to forgive if they had anything against anyone so their Father would forgive their transgressions. God won't forgive those who don't forgive others (Mark 11:22-26). Trust God in fulfilling promises from His word and answering prayer when you forgive others. 

After religious leaders questioned Christ's authority, He asked, "Was the baptism of John from heaven, or from men?" When they wouldn't answer, He refused to tell them by what authority He did these things (Mark 11:27-33). 
Don't fear men, but believe in Christ's supernatural authority in prayer. 

Is your life centered in prayer or making a living?
Do you believe God's promises from His word?
Do you believe that Christ's authority in prayer comes from heaven?
What is stopping you from making a commitment to pray? (ex. fear of men, not believing God answers prayer, ignorance of God's promises, distractions in making money)






0 Comments

Stepping Out of Mediocrity (Insights in NT)

1/6/2011

1 Comment

 
Picture
No one wants to live a mediocre Christian life. As hard as I try, forces pull me back to the status quo where I'm not different than anyone else. It's like rowing against a strong current. Every force is fighting against my best efforts to live the normal Christian life in the way God designed. Mark 10 provides a blueprint to step out of mediocrity and into the adventurous life that pleases Him.  


Pharisees questioned Jesus whether it was lawful for a man to divorce a wife. He replied that Moses permitted a man to write a certificate of divorce because of hardness of heart. Marriage was designed for humankind to leave father and mother so the two become one flesh. In response to the disciples' questions, Jesus answered that whoever divorces one's spouse and marries another commits adultery (Mark 10:1-12).

The disciples rebuked the people who brought children to Jesus so He might touch them. He said that those who do not receive the kingdom of God like a child will not enter it  (Mark 10:13-16).

The rich young ruler asked the Good Teacher what he must do to inherit eternal life. Jesus asked why he called Him good since no one is good except God alone. He reminded the rich young ruler about the ten commandments, which  he confirmed keeping since his youth. When Jesus said for him to sell everything, give to the poor to obtain treasure in heaven and follow Him, he went away grieved since he owned much property (Mark 10:17-22).

Jesus repeated himself twice for added emphasis, saying how hard for wealthy people to enter the kingdom of God. He continued saying "it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God." These sayings astonished the disciples causing them to ask, "Then who can be saved?" Jesus responded that all things are possible with God. When Peter said the disciples left everything to follow Him, He replied that no one leaves house, family or business for His sake and for the gospel's sake without receiving a 100-fold increase now along with persecutions and eternal life in the age to come. The first will be last and the last, first (Mark 10:23-31). 

Jesus explained His future to the 12 disciples that the chief priests and scribes would condemn Him to death and deliver Him to the Gentiles where He would be mocked, spit upon, scourged, killed and rise again three days later (Mark 10:32-34) 

James and John didn't get it. They asked to sit at His right and left hand in glory. Jesus rebuked them since they were totally ignorant about the persecutions and sufferings necessary to prepare them. In addition, it wasn't His choice to give them that privilege but only "for those for whom it has been prepared." To emphasize his point even more, Jesus said rulers of the Gentiles lord and exercise authority over their subjects, but true greatness is shown by servanthood and being a slave of all. The Son of Man came not to be served but to serve and give His life a ransom for many (Mark 10:35-45).

An example of Jesus' servanthood is how He related to the blind beggar, Bartimaeus, after he kept calling out, "Son of David, have mercy on me!" Jesus stopped and said, "Call him here." After he came to Jesus, He asked Bartimaeus, "What do you want Me to do for you?" The blind man said, "My Master, I want to regain my sight?" Jesus said, "Go your way; your faith has saved (made well) you." Immediately he regained his sight and began following Him (Mark 10:46-52).  

Let’s look at these seven paragraphs in a chiastic structure as follows from the first through the seventh paragraph: A; B; C; D; C’; B’; A’. We group together the content contained in A & A’; B & B’, etc. Here are my conclusions:

1. Rather than self-sufficiency and hardened heart, God desires neediness and humble heart (A & A’)
  2. Rather than seeking honor and authority, God desires childlike faith and servanthood (B & B’)
  3. Rather than trusting in possessions and good works, God desires generosity to the poor and willingness to suffer persecution (C & C’).
  4. The three points above explain how to attain the main theme of Mark 10: Prioritize loving Christ and the spread of the Gospel more than family and material wealth since He promises a 100-fold return in this life along with persecution plus eternal life beginning now (D).  


Ask God for these personal prayer requests:  
1. Nurture neediness, humble heart, childlike faith, servanthood, generosity to the poor and willingness to suffer persecution. 
2. Prioritize loving Christ and the spread of the Gospel more than family and material wealth remembering His promise of 100-fold return and persecutions plus eternal life. 



1 Comment

How to Embrace the Cross (Insights in NT)

1/1/2011

2 Comments

 
Picture
One of George Barna's mega themes for 2010: The influence of Christianity on culture and individual lives is largely invisible. He states that Christianity has arguably added more value to American culture than any other religion, philosophy, ideology or community. Although there were a few subgroups that were more likely than average to experience church-based accountability, there was not a single segment for which even one out of every five people said their church does anything to hold them accountable. 

We observed in Mark 8, that to embrace the cross, you must deny yourself and follow Christ, lose your life for Christ's sake, prioritize peoples' souls over worldly gain and not be ashamed of Christ and the gospel. The next chapter in Mark 9 explains steps on how to embrace the cross as you become salt in influencing the culture.    

Perspective: See Christ and Nothing Else
After Jesus took Peter, James and John up the mountain, He was transfigured before them. His garments became exceedingly white and a voice came out of the cloud, "This is My beloved Son, listen to Him!" They saw no one except Jesus alone. He told them that "He should suffer many things and be treated with contempt" (Mark 9:1-13).

Faith: All Things Possible Through Prayer
The disciples were unable to cast out a spirit in a boy who was mute, which dashed him to the ground making him foam at the mouth, grind his teeth and become stiff. Jesus said all things are possible to him who believes. He rebuked the deaf and  dumb spirit and commanded it to come out of the boy and not enter him again. Jesus told the disciples that this spirit "cannot come out by anything but prayer" (Mark 9:14-29)

Lifestyle: Be Servant of All, Especially to the Least
Jesus taught His disciples that He would be killed and rise three days later. The disciples kept silent instead of answering Him since they were discussing among themselves which was the greatest. Jesus said the pathway to being first was serving all. He illustrated servanthood by saying that "whoever receives one child like this in My name receives Me" (Mark 9:30-37).

Commitment: Preserve Unity in Body of Christ
The disciples tried to hinder someone casting out demons in Christ's name because he wasn't following them. Jesus said  that "he who is not against us is for us." Anyone who causes a little one to stumble should have a "heavy millstone hung around his neck and cast into the sea." Jesus' concern for unity in the body of Christ led Him to say that "if your hand causes you to stumble, cut it off; it is better for you to enter life crippled, than having your two hands, to go into hell, into the unquenchable fire." Maintaining peace with one another preserves unity in the body of Christ so you can be salt in the culture (Mark 9:38-50). 

Evaluate yourself on a scale of 1 to 10 (1 being lowest and and 10 highest on the following items):
1. Perspective: Seeing Christ and Nothing Else
2. Faith: All Things Possible Through Prayer
3. Lifestyle: Be Servant of All, Especially to the Least
4. Commitment: Preserve Unity in Body of Christ
Use strength in your highest rated category to help build into your lowest rated one. 
In this new year, ask God through the power of the Holy Spirit to transform your perspective, faith, lifestyle and commitment in being salt in your world.  




2 Comments
<<Previous
    Picture
    Mark Pomeroy

    RSS Feed


    My goal is to ignite the hearts of people by explaining God's word in the Law, Prophets, Psalms and New Testament consecutively, much like the experience of the two disciples on the road to Emmaus (Luke 24:32,44). I have been a missionary in Lincoln, NE, for 13 years with Christ For the City Int. and Sync with God.
     

    Sync with God is a highly versatile web app that hosts on-demand, virtual small groups. Sync is designed to connect young seekers in the faith and scripturally-trained mentors, even globally. It offers a safe, engaging interface for Millennials/Gen. Z and is readily adaptable to technical advances well into the future.

    ​Overview
    ​Sync pilot lesson 1
    Sync YouTube

    ​
    ​

    Follow syncwithgod on Twitter
    View my profile on LinkedIn

    Archives

    November 2020
    July 2020
    April 2020
    March 2020
    February 2020
    January 2020
    December 2019
    October 2019
    September 2019
    August 2019
    July 2019
    June 2019
    May 2019
    April 2019
    March 2019
    June 2013
    May 2013
    April 2013
    March 2013
    February 2013
    January 2013
    December 2012
    November 2012
    October 2012
    September 2012
    August 2012
    July 2012
    June 2012
    May 2012
    April 2012
    March 2012
    February 2012
    January 2012
    December 2011
    November 2011
    October 2011
    September 2011
    August 2011
    July 2011
    June 2011
    May 2011
    April 2011
    March 2011
    February 2011
    January 2011
    December 2010
    November 2010
    October 2010
    September 2010
    August 2010
    July 2010
    June 2010
    May 2010

    Categories

    All
    1 Chronicles
    1 Corinthians
    1 John
    1 Kings
    1 Peter
    1 Samuel
    1 Thessalonians
    1 Timothy
    2 Chronicles
    2 Corinthians
    2 John
    2 Kings
    2 Peter
    2 Samuel
    2 Thessalonians
    2 Timothy
    3 John
    Abide
    Abortion
    Abundance
    Abundant Life
    Acceptance
    Accomplishment
    Accountability
    Accuracy
    Accusations
    Acts
    Addiction
    Adultery
    Adventure
    Affiction
    Affirmation
    Affliction
    Alcoholism
    Alive
    Ambassador
    Amos
    Antichrist
    Anxiety
    Apathy
    Apostasy
    Apostolic Gifts
    Appearance
    Application
    Armor Of God
    Artistic
    Asleep Spiritually
    Assignment
    Assurance
    Attacks
    Authentic
    Authorities
    Authority
    Awesome
    Balance
    Bargain
    Beauty
    Believe
    Benefits
    Betrayal
    Bible
    Biblical Illiteracy
    Biblical Worldview
    Blameless
    Bless
    Blessing
    Blessings
    Blind
    Blood
    Blood Of The Lamb
    Boast
    Bold
    Bondage
    Broken And Contrite Spirit
    Broken Heart
    Burdens
    Business
    Business Plan
    Busyness
    Calling
    Careers
    Cares
    Change
    Change Agent
    Character
    Children
    Choice
    Choices
    Chosen Instrument
    Christ
    Church
    Church Growth Strategies
    City Ministry
    City Transformation
    Clarity
    Clear Conscience
    Coach
    Colossians
    Comfort
    Comfort Zone
    Command
    Communication
    Communities
    Community
    Community Ministry
    Compassion
    Compensation
    Competence
    Complacency
    Complexity
    Complications
    Compromise
    Condemnation
    Confess
    Confession
    Confess Sin
    Confidence
    Confident
    Conflicts
    Conformity
    Confront Sins
    Confusion
    Connect
    Consequences
    Conspiracy
    Consumerism
    Contend Earnestly For Faith
    Contentment
    Control
    Convergence
    Convict
    Convictions
    Coronavirus
    Corrupted
    Cost
    Counsel
    Courageous
    Covenant
    Covet
    Craftsmanship
    Creative Media
    Creator
    Credentials
    Crime
    Crisis
    Critical Speech
    Cross
    Cross Denominational Lines
    Crown Of Glory
    Cultivating Spiritual Life
    Cultural Christianity
    Cultural Insiders
    Culturally Sensitive
    Culture
    Curses
    Cursing
    Daniel
    Deacons
    Deadness
    Death
    Debt
    Deceit
    Deception
    Decision
    Decisions
    Defraud
    Delegation
    Deliverance
    Deliverer
    Dependence
    Depression
    Descendants
    Desire
    Desolation
    Destiny
    Deuteronomy
    Development
    Dialogue
    Diligence
    Discernment
    Disciple
    Disciplemaking
    Disciples
    Discipleship
    Discipline
    Discussion
    Disease
    Disenfranchised
    Disgrace
    Disobedience
    Dissension
    Distractions
    Divisions
    Divorce
    Double-minded
    Doubt
    Dread
    Drift
    Drudgery
    Dry
    Ecclesiastes
    Economic Depression
    Edify
    Effectiveness
    Elders
    Emotions
    Empower
    Emptiness
    Encourage
    Endurance
    Enemy
    Entanglement
    Entrap
    Environment
    Ephesians
    Equip
    Esther
    Eternal Impact
    Eternal Life
    Eternal Punishment
    Eternal Reward
    Evangelism
    Evangelism And Discipleship Team
    Evangelismi
    Evil
    Exalt
    Exaltation
    Excessive Profits
    Excessive Study
    Exodus
    External
    Ezekiel
    Ezra
    Faith
    Faithful
    Faithfulness
    False Gods
    False Security
    False Self
    False Teachers
    False Teaching
    False Way
    Families
    Family Relationships
    Famine
    Fasting
    Fathers
    Father's Blessing
    Favor
    Fear
    Fear Of God
    Feedback
    Feel-good Religion
    Fellowship
    Finances
    First Love
    Fisherman
    Flesh
    Flourish
    Fool
    Forgiveness
    Foundation
    Freedom
    Free Gift
    Fresh Relationship
    Friends
    Friendship
    Fruit
    Fruitfulness
    Galatians
    Generational Sin
    Generosity
    Generous Giving
    Genesis
    Giving
    Glory
    Goal
    God-confidence
    Godliness
    Godly Foundations
    Godly Offspring
    Godly Sorrow
    God Rules
    God's Agenda
    God's Leadership
    God's Rule
    Good Friends
    Good Life
    Goodness
    Good News
    Good Works
    Gospel
    Gospel Of The Kingdom
    Gospel Workers
    Grace
    Gracious
    Gratefulness
    Gratitude
    Greater Works
    Greatness
    Great Society
    Grief
    Grieve
    Growth
    Grumble
    Guidance
    Guide
    Guilt
    Habakkuk
    Haggai
    Happiness
    Hardships
    Harmony
    Hate
    Hate Sin
    Healing
    Health
    Health-giving Service
    Heart
    Heart Test
    Hebrews
    Heir
    Hell
    High Priest
    His Design
    Holiness
    Holistic
    Holy Spirit
    Holy Spirit Power
    Homosexuality
    Honor
    Hope
    Hopeless Situation
    Hosea
    Hospitality
    House
    Human Resources
    Humble
    Humility
    Hunger
    Hurt
    Husband
    Hygiene
    Hypocrisy
    Identification
    Identity
    Identity In Christ
    Idol
    Idolatry
    Idols
    Image
    Immigration
    Immorality
    Implosion
    Impossible Situation
    Independence
    Individualistic
    Influence
    Infrastructure
    Initiative
    Injustice
    Insight
    Inspire
    Instruction
    Insubordination
    Insults
    Integrity
    Integrity Tests
    Intellectual Faith
    Intercession
    Internal
    Interpersonal
    Intimacy
    Intimidation
    Invest
    Isaiah
    Isolation
    James
    Jealousy
    Jeremiah
    Jesus
    Job
    Joel
    John
    Jonah
    Joshua
    Joy
    Jude
    Judges
    Judgment
    Judgment Seat Of Christ
    Judicial System
    Justice
    Kindness
    King
    Kingdom
    Kingdom Dominion
    Kingdom Impact
    Kingdom Ministry
    Kingdom Mission
    Kingdom Of God
    Kingdom Opportunities
    Kingdom Strategies
    Kingdom Work
    Kingship
    Knowledge
    Know Your Heart
    Lack Of Love
    Lamentations
    Law
    Leadership
    Leadership Crisis
    Least Of These
    Legacy
    Legalism
    Leviticus
    Lies
    Life
    Lifestyle
    Listen
    Living Faith
    Living Water
    Longterm Impact
    Longterm Success
    Lord's Table
    Lose Life
    Loss
    Lost
    Love
    Loved
    Love Of Money
    Lovingkindness
    Luke
    Lukewarm
    Lust
    Majestic
    Make Disciples
    Making Decisions
    Malachi
    Margin
    Mark
    Marketplace
    Marriage
    Martyr
    Mask
    Materialism
    Matthew
    Meaninglessness
    Meditate
    Men Of Peace
    Mental Capacity
    Mentoring
    Mentors
    Mercy
    Micah
    Micromanage
    Mighty Deeds
    Mindset
    Ministry
    Ministry Plan
    Miracles
    Mission
    Mistreatment
    Mocking
    Model Cities
    Money
    Moral Purity
    Moral Relativism
    Motives
    Mourning
    Multiply Disciples
    Music
    Nahum
    Name
    Narrow Way
    Need
    Neediness
    Nehemiah
    Neighbor
    Neighborhood Ministry
    Network
    New Covenant
    New Hands
    New Heart
    New Heaven And New Earth
    New Mind
    New Testament
    New Wine
    Nt
    Numbers
    Nurture
    Obadiah
    Obedience
    Obey
    Object Lesson
    Obstacles
    Offend
    Offense
    Ogd
    Older Men And Women
    Opportunities
    Oppressed
    Organize
    Othercenteredness
    Outcomes
    Overcomer
    Over-confidence
    Pain
    Parenting
    Parents
    Participate
    Partner
    Partnership
    Passion
    Pathway
    Patience
    Peace
    Peacemaker
    Perceptiveness
    Performance
    Persecution
    Perseverance
    Persevere
    Persistent
    Personal Identity
    Perspective
    Persuasiveness
    Petition
    Phiippians
    Philemon
    Philippians
    Physical Needs
    Plagues
    Plans
    Pleasure
    Political Tyranny
    Poor
    Pornography
    Possessions
    Possess Territory
    Post
    Power
    Powerlessness
    Practice
    Pragmatism
    Praise
    Prayer
    Prayer Partners
    Prayer Walking
    Preach Gospel
    Preparation
    Presence
    Presence Of God
    Pressure
    Pride
    Priest
    Priorities
    Proclaim
    Prodigal
    Productivity
    Professionalism
    Profit
    Profiteering
    Promise
    Promise Land
    Promotion
    Prophecy
    Prophesy
    Prophets
    Prosperity
    Protection
    Proverbs
    Provision
    Psalm
    Psalms
    Purity
    Purpose
    Quarrel
    Questions
    Rationalism
    Rationalization
    Reality
    Real Living
    Rebellion
    Rebuild
    Reconcile
    Reconciliation
    Redemption
    Refresh Others
    Refuge
    Reign
    Rejection
    Rejoice
    Relationship
    Relationships
    Relief
    Religious System
    Repent
    Repentance
    Rescue
    Research
    Resources
    Responsibility
    Responsible
    Rest
    Restitution
    Restoration
    Restore
    Restoring Relationships
    Resurrection
    Revelation
    Revenge
    Revenue Stream
    Revival
    Revive
    Reward
    Riches
    Right
    Righteous
    Righteousness
    Right Living
    Ritual
    Romans
    Rule
    Ruth
    Sabbath
    Sacred Assembly
    Sacrificial
    Sacrificial Death
    Safety
    Salvation
    Sanctify
    Satan
    Satisfaction
    Satisfied
    Scroll Of Remembrance
    Second Coming
    Secular
    Security
    Self Confidence
    Selfishness
    Self-made Religion
    Self-righteousness
    Self Sufficient
    Self-sufficient
    Sent
    Servant Attitude
    Serve
    Service
    Sex
    Sexual Sin
    Shame
    Share Gospel
    Shepherd
    Significance
    Signs
    Simplicity
    Sin
    Sinfulness
    Single Minded
    Single-minded
    Skillful
    Skillful Workman
    Small Groups
    Social Justice
    Song Of Solomon
    Sound Doctrine
    Sovereignty
    Sow
    Sowing
    Sowing The Word
    Speak Tenderly
    Speak Truth
    Speech
    Sphere Of Influence
    Spiritual
    Spiritual Battle
    Spiritual Defenses
    Spiritual Discipline
    Spiritual Dryness
    Spiritual Enemies
    Spiritual Fruit
    Spiritual Gifts
    Spiritual Growth
    Spiritual Harvest
    Spiritual Influence
    Spiritual Intimacy
    Spiritual Leadership
    Spiritual Leadership
    Spiritual Nourishment
    Spiritual Warfare
    Spiritual Warriors
    Spiritual Weapons
    Stability
    Stand In The Gap
    Status Quo
    Steal
    Stewardship
    Straightjacket
    Strategic Partnerships
    Strength
    Stress
    Strong
    Strongholds
    Structural Connections
    Struggles
    Study
    Submission
    Submit
    Success
    Suffering
    Supernatural
    Supernatural Transformation
    Supervision
    Surrender
    Sweet Spot
    Sync With God
    Take Up Cross
    Talents
    Teach
    Teachable
    Teaching
    Team
    Teamwork
    Technology
    Temptation
    Temptations
    Testimony
    Test Spirits
    Thanksgiving
    Theology
    Thinking
    Thirst
    Thirsty
    Throne
    Timing
    Titus
    Tongue
    Training
    Transform
    Transition
    Transparency
    Tree Of Life
    Trial
    Trials
    Tribulation
    True Justice
    True Self
    Trust
    Truth
    Unashamed
    Unbelief
    Unconditional Relationship
    Underdog
    Unforgiveness
    United Prayer
    Unity
    Vanity
    Victory
    Vindicator
    Vocation
    Volunteer Recruitment
    Volunteers
    Vows
    Wait
    Wait Patiently
    Walk
    Warfare
    Warning
    Wasted Life
    Water Of Life
    Weakness
    Wealth
    Well Being
    Well-being
    Wife
    Wisdom
    Witness
    Wonderful Counselor
    Word Of God
    Word Of Testimony
    Work
    Workaholic
    Work Environment
    Work Life Balance
    Workmen Of The Word
    Works
    World-changing Ministry
    Worldliness
    Worldly Advice
    Worldly Thinking
    World's Scorn
    Worship
    Worthless
    Wounds
    Wrath
    Young People
    Zeal
    Zechariah
    Zephaniah

Powered by Create your own unique website with customizable templates.
Photos used under Creative Commons from blumenbiene, Kirt Edblom, f2 photografia