Fight or Flight

The picture was becoming clear to the Pharisees that Jesus had gained a following much larger than that of John the Baptist, the wandering prophet. Now He could see that the Pharisees were beginning to plot against Him. 2 This was because His disciples were busy ritually cleansing many new disciples through baptism,[a] 3 He chose to leave Judea where most PhariseesContinue reading “Fight or Flight”

The Aroma of Fresh Bread

32 Jesus said, “I tell you the truth, Moses didn’t give you bread from heaven. My Father did. And now he offers you the true bread from heaven. 33 The true bread of God is the one who comes down from heaven and gives life to the world.”34 “Sir,” they said, “give us that bread every day.”35 Jesus replied, “I am theContinue reading “The Aroma of Fresh Bread”

I Am Guilty

40-42 Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, was one of the two who heard John’s witness and followed Jesus. The first thing he did after finding where Jesus lived was find his own brother, Simon, telling him, “We’ve found the Messiah” (that is, “Christ”). He immediately led him to Jesus. 45-46 Philip went and found Nathanael and told him,Continue reading “I Am Guilty”

I Want It Now!

16. and [see to it] that no one is immoral or godless like Esau, who sold his own birthright for a single meal.  (Amplified) Hebrews 12:16 16. Watch out for the Esau syndrome: trading away God’s lifelong gift in order to satisfy a short-term appetite. (Message)Hebrews 12:16 Esau was the first born of the twins of IsaacContinue reading “I Want It Now!”

No Fasting, Only Feasting

When God wanted to guarantee his promises, he gave his word, a rock-solid guarantee—God can’t break his word. And because his word cannot change, the promise is likewise unchangeable. Hebrews 6:17-18 The writer is encouraging these Christians to continue to grow in the Lord. He talks about the danger and consequence of going back on your commitmentContinue reading “No Fasting, Only Feasting”

Desperate Love

During the days of Jesus’ life on earth, he offered up prayers and petitions with fervent cries and tears to the one who could save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverent submission. 8 Son though he was, he learned obedience from what he suffered Hebrews 5:7-8 When Jesus was on earth, he prayed earnestly and ferventlyContinue reading “Desperate Love”

To Be Understood

14. Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has ascended into heaven,[f] Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. 15 For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet heContinue reading “To Be Understood”

My Way or the Highway

Even though they watched me at work for forty years,your ancestors refused to let me do it my way; over and over they tried my patience. Hebrews 3:8 The Message The author is reminding these Christians of their Jewish history and how faithful Moses was, but the people wouldn’t listen to God’s voice through him.Continue reading “My Way or the Highway”