As we began studying Jesus’ sermon on the plain a few weeks ago, I asked us to consider this question, “When you listen to Jesus, do you remember just who it is that’s speaking to you?” Another good question is, “When you listen to Jesus, do you remember just what it is that he is speaking to you?” Peter called them “the words of eternal life” (John 6:68). And not just the red letters, but the whole Bible, which Jesus preached and quoted. Living and eternal-life-giving words.
I recently came across the introduction printed in the bibles published by the Gideons.
The Bible contains the mind of God, the state of man, the way of salvation, the doom of sinners, and the happiness of believers. Its doctrines are holy, its precepts are binding, its histories are true, and its decisions are immutable.
Read it to be wise, believe it to be safe, and practice it to be holy. It contains light to direct you, food to support you, and comfort to cheer you.
It is the traveler’s map, the pilgrim’s staff, the pilot’s compass, the soldier’s sword and the Christian’s charter. Here too, Heaven is opened and the gates of Hell disclosed.
Christ is its grand subject, our good its design, and the glory of God its end. It should fill the memory, rule the heart and guide the feet. Read it slowly, frequently and prayerfully. It is a mine of wealth, a paradise of glory, and a river of pleasure.
It is given you in life, will be opened at the judgment, and be remembered forever. It involves the highest responsibility, rewards the greatest labor, and will condemn all who trifle with its sacred contents.
Do we remember what we are holding in our hands when we pick up our bibles? Do we hold the words they contain in the highest regard that they deserve? If so, it will show in what we do with them. This Sunday, Jesus will confront us with a serious question, “Why do you call me ‘Lord, Lord,’ and not do what I tell you? (Luke 6:46).”
Erik Thoennes will be preaching Luke 6:43-49 for us this Sunday. The theme is “A heart transformed by the word of Christ obeys him and rests on the sure foundation he provides.” Kenny Clark will be leading our sung worship. Would you pray for each as they prepare?
And let’s ask the Lord to make us like the crowds recorded in Luke 19:48 who “were hanging on his words.” See you Sunday, Grace. Come hungry!
Song Link of the Week
Every Promise of Your Word by Keith and Kristyn Getty
From the breaking of the dawn to the setting of the sun
I will stand on every promise of Your Word
Words of power, strong to save, that will never pass away
I will stand on every promise of Your Word
For Your covenant is sure, and on this I am secure
I can stand on every promise of Your Word