Satan tempted Jesus with political power over “all the kingdoms of the world.” But the man from Nazareth refused the offer. Instead of might and grandeur, he submitted to the way of the ‘Suffering Servant.’ But the most startling detail is that he did not dispute the Devil’s claim to have jurisdiction over the political systems of the world.
Continue reading “To Whom Homage?”
In Revelation, every man and woman is either “tabernacling in heaven” or included among the “inhabitants of the earth.” These descriptions are NOT geographical or spatial. Instead, they reflect the allegiance of either group. A man or woman either belongs to “heaven” or to the “earth.” Those who “tabernacle in heaven” elect to “follow the Lamb wherever he goes” no matter the cost.
Continue reading “The Choice”
To be his disciple means to pursue self-sacrificial service for others, and especially so to the weak and insignificant.
On the way to Jerusalem, Jesus explained to the disciples what it meant to be the Messiah, and not for the first time, for in the city of David, he would face his final confrontation with the Temple authorities and death at the hands of the Romans. Was not that city the appointed place where the prophets were killed, and the Messiah himself must suffer rejection and death?
Continue reading “MEANING OF DISCIPLESHIP”
To follow Jesus means self-denial and the willingness to suffer for him. For the disciple, persecution is the highest honor – Matthew 5:10-12.
For disciples of Jesus, retaliation and violence are NOT appropriate reactions when they are persecuted. Rather than respond-in-kind, they must meet threats with humility, mercy, even love. That is what it means to “deny oneself” and to “take up his cross.” Praying for one’s “enemies” is contrary to the “wisdom of this age,” but it epitomizes the paradigm of Christ crucified.
Continue reading “PERSECUTION, SUFFERING, DISCIPLESHIP”
Insights into Bible Prophecy 