A place of refreshment, the porch of the Lord…
Pull up a chair, take in spiritual air.
Jesus always has time, and His is the power–
Receive there His touch in this end-time hour.
Like Mary, take time to sit at His feet;
Come to His porch for relief from life’s heat.
Only one thing is needful and truly can please–
His Word and His presence, felt on each breeze.
He offers living water, quenching everyone’s thirst;
And that’s yours there daily, by seeking Him first.
There’s joy on His porch, with your sisters and brothers,
As you find your needs met while caring about others.
The healing and peace which only Christ can bring
Are found there at all times—an everlasting spring.
Taste there His love, so generously poured;
Your “cup will run over” on the porch of the Lord.
P. A. Oltrogge
“Now it happened as they went that He entered a certain village; and a certain woman named Martha welcomed Him into her house. And she had a sister called Mary, who also sat at Jesus’ feet and heard His word. But Martha was distracted with much serving, and she approached Him and said, ‘Lord, do You not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Therefore tell her to help me.’ And Jesus answered and said to her, ‘Martha, Martha, you are worried and troubled about many things; But one thing is needed, and Mary has chosen that good part, which will not be taken away from her.'” Luke 10:38-42 NKJV
Jesus Christ of Nazareth had taken His destined place
On a cruel cross upon a hill–for the task He’d been born to face.
His sinless life had made Him the chosen Lamb of God–
Though now He sits at God’s right hand and bears a Shepherd’s rod.
Three days after Christ’s burial, and just at the brink of dawn,
Some, in love, had come to the tomb and had found that His body was gone.
But the pain of their grief concerning His death had then given way
To amazing angelic tidings on that glorious Resurrection day! Jesus, the Man on the center cross, on the hill of crucifixion had been
The focus of God’s judgement upon all of mankind’s sin.
But now, with joy, the angels reminded that just as He had said, Jesus, God’s Son, had risen in victory, up from the dead!
His Father’s gracious plan of redemption for all people had been met;
And, therefore, all of their sins, a holy God could now forget!
There’s just one requirement remaining; and it’s your choice–
To believe in your heart He’s Savior, and confess it with your voice.
Angels rejoice in heaven over one sinner who’ll repent,
And put their faith in Jesus Christ–the One Whom God has sent.
P. A. Oltrogge
“…for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, being justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus….” Romans 3:23-24
“For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.” Romans 10:10
“In the same way, I tell you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.” Luke 15:10 (NASB)
“For He says: ‘In an acceptable time I have heard you, and in the day of salvation I have helped you.’ Behold, nowis the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.” 2 Corinthians 6:2
“Therefore, I will divide Him a portion with the great, and He shall divide the spoil with the strong, because He poured out His soul unto death, and He was numbered with the transgressors, and He bore the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors.”
Isaiah 53:12
Scriptures: NKJV or as noted
Resurrection references: Matthew 28; Mark 16; Luke 24; John 20
Christ and the Rich Young Ruler by Pauline Voorhees Eikenberry
A rich young ruler, with eternal concerns, made a mental list–
Then sought out Christ to see if there was anything he’d missed.
In contemplating heaven, he hoped he’d done God’s will
By following His laws, from his youth, but wondered still.
He addressed Christ as a good teacher, but didn’t realize
That Christ wasn’t just a good teacher, but God before his very eyes.
He asked the Lord what he could do to aid him on eternity’s quest,
And Jesus confirmed that to keep the commandments is best.
The young man replied he’d done that from as early as he could recall–
Then Jesus told him of his need to follow Him and surrender all.
His wealth and possessions had become too strong of a hold
And kept him from seeing the purity of God’s desires–true gold.
With sadness, the ruler left because he couldn’t see the reward.
He hadn’t yet grasped the higher life offered through Christ, the Lord.
You see, making Christ your Lord doesn’t actually cost–in fact, it pays,
With dividends of God’s blessings throughout all your days.
The greatest blessing of all is getting to know God as you should–
A loving heavenly Father whose care and plans for you are good.
Then, committing your life and resources, in faith, as He leads
Will help you to reach exactly those He knows of who have needs.
God knows that when possessions become your highest treasure,
You’ll fail to find the things that He knows are of greater measure.
Christ looks for our faith and love for Him and where our loyalty lies;
Let’s not fail to see that investment in His Kingdom is certainly wise.
P. A. Oltrogge
“Now behold, one came and said to him, ‘Good Teacher, what good thing shall I do that I may have eternal life?’ So He said to him, ‘Why do you call me good? No one is good but One, that is, God. But, if you want to enter into life, keep the commandments.’ He said to Him, ‘Which ones?’ Jesus said, ‘You shall not murder; you shall not commit adultery; you shall not steal; you shall not bear false witness; honor your father and your mother; and you shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ The young man said to him, ‘All these things I have kept from my youth. What do I still lack?’ Jesus said to him, ‘If you want to be perfect, go, sell what you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Me.’ But when the young man heard that saying, he went away sorrowful, for he had great possessions.”
“God, who at various times and in various ways spoke in times past to the fathers by the prophets, has in these last days spoken to us by His Son, whom He has appointed heir of all things, through whom also He made the worlds, who being the brightness of His glory and the express image of His person, and upholding all things by the word of His power, when He had by Himself purged our sins, sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high, having become so much better than the angels, as He has by inheritance obtained a more excellent name than they.” Hebrews 1:1-4
The God’s Word translation reads “He holds everything together by His powerful words….”
Does something in your life need to be upheld or held together? Trust the One, who holds all things together….
Jesus upholds you by the word of His power…
“All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made. In Him was life, and the life was the light of men. And the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it.” John 1:3-5
“Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me.” John 14:1
“Jesus said to him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.” John 14:6
In this account, Jesus was teaching in one of the synagogues; and it was on a Sabbath day.
A woman was there who, for eighteen years, had had an infirmity caused by a spirit—she was bound by satan that way.
She was bent double and was totally unable to straighten up at all.
But she made her way over to Jesus, upon His invitation and call.
“Woman, you are loosed from your infirmity,” He said, laying His hands upon her—immediately she became erect.
She began to glorify God that Jesus’ ministry had had such a powerful effect!
But due to rigid adherence to the Torah, a synagogue official could only “see” the Law.
Jesus should not have healed on the Sabbath, he indicated. All he could see was this “flaw.”
In the face of such a miracle, he still, obviously, wasn’t persuaded.
His only desire seemed to be that Jesus’ act of love should be degraded.
Jesus then called him a hypocrite, saying that he, and the other synagogue officials, would untie their own oxen or donkeys on the Sabbath to lead them to some waters.
How much more, then, was it right for Him to heal, even though on a Sabbath, this woman, who was one of Abraham’s daughters.
After Jesus had said these things, his opponents were put to shame…
while, for the glorious things He was doing for others, the people were giving Him great acclaim.
As believers, we, too, are heirs of Abraham; and on any night or day…
the Lord, who never slumbers or sleeps, will hear and answer us whenever we pray.
P. A. Oltrogge
“And if you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham’s descendants, heirs according to promise.” Galatians 3:29 NASB
“…He who keeps you will not slumber. Behold, He who keeps Israel will neither slumber nor sleep.” Psalm 121:3-4 NASB
As believers, we’re aware of the importance… of following “the inward witness,” which is so vital to our well-being and to our necessary spiritual fitness.
If we believe in the goodness of God and that our Shepherd knows what’s best, then it follows that by praying and following His lead, we’ll be on the highest and most certain quest.
To put it in God’s words, you are His son, when you’re someone who is Spirit led. Make it your desire to do the will of the Father; and, with the faith food of His Word, be fed.
Wait for His peace regarding decisions; never go against what God has said in His Word. It’s a lamp unto your feet and a light unto your path, whereby your success is established and assured.
If our lives, in some instances, seem to be off course, and that things aren’t turning out right, it could be that we’ve not been walking by faith, but, instead, just by our own sight.
Wise men (and women and even children) still seek the Lord today, it’s said. Thankfully, He’s the God of another chance– so seek Him strongly in the days ahead.
P. A. Oltrogge
“Seek the Lord while He may be found; call upon Him while He is near.” Isaiah 55:6 NASB
“For we walk by faith, not by sight.” 2 Corinthians 5:7 NKJV
“For all who are being led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God.” Romans 8:14 NASB
“But as many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His Name.” John 1:12 KJV
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.” 2 Corinthians 5:17 NKJV
“Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.” Psalm 119:105 KJV
“The entrance of Your words gives light…” Psalm 119:130 NKJV
“But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law, to redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons. And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father. Wherefore thou art no more a servant, but a son; and if a son, then an heir of God through Christ. Galatians 4:4-7 KJV
“Not that I have already attained, or am already perfected; but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me. Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 3:12-14 NKJV
“The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. ‘The Lord is my portion,’ says my soul, ‘therefore I will hope in him.’” Lamentations 3:22-24 NRSV
It can be difficult not to be anxious when a problem seems very intense. But keeping faith in the God of the Bible (and the universe) is the only thing that makes sense.
Cast your worries and cares, that the Lord knows of, over completely upon Him, trusting He knows how to work things out, even if, to you, hope seems dim.
Believe in the mercy and grace of God as expressed through Jesus, His Son…who went about healing and doing good, sharing God’s love with everyone.
Close the door on all fear–speak the promises of God, which make the believer secure. Remember we’ve a covenant with God through Christ’s blood–of that fact, we can always be sure.
Cry out to the Lord if things are overwhelming–Peter did, in a time of fright. Jesus reached out and kept him from sinking during his walk on the water that night.
God created all of the mountain peaks and sends flowers to bloom on a plain. He made the vast waters of the oceans–yet designed the intricacies of the human brain.
From mountain heights to the deep sea depths, He put everything together… Jesus said, “Have faith in God.” Rely on His peace through whatever storm that you weather.
P. A. Oltrogge
And a postscript: At those times of anxiety, worry, or doubt, believe for the good that GOD’s bringing about.
To some, these thoughts might sound simplistic, but they’re based on words that are God’s. “For with God nothing will be impossible.” He can help us against all odds.
Scriptures that encourage:
“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”
Meditate on These Things
“Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy–meditate on these things.” Philippians 4:6-8
“Because of this oath, Jesus is the one who guarantees this better covenant with God. There were many priests under the old system, for death prevented them from remaining in office. But because Jesus lives forever, his priesthood lasts forever. Therefore he is able, once and forever, to save those who come to God through him. He lives forever to intercede with God on their behalf.” Hebrews 7:22-25 NLT
“Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time, casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you.” 1 Peter 5:6-7
“When I cry out to you, then my enemies will turn back; This I know, because God is for me.” Psalm 56:9 (and many other scriptures, especially in the Psalms, on crying out to the Lord)
“Fear not, for I am with you; Be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, Yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10
“Only be strong and very courageous….” Joshua 1:7
“So Jesus said to them, ‘Because of your unbelief; for assuredly, I say to you, if you have faith as a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move; and nothing will be impossible for you.’” Matthew 17:20
“For with God nothing will be impossible.” Luke 1:37
“Then He (Jesus) went up into the boat to them, and the wind ceased. And they were greatly amazed in themselves beyond measure, and marveled.” Mark 6:51
“Most assuredly, I say to you, he who believes in Me, the works that I do he will do also; and greater works than these he will do, because I go to My Father.” John 14:12
Love, with no definite expression of outward action or word, isn’t love at all–since, by our hearts, nothing is “heard.” Kind words, loving service, time spent together, a gift, or a tender touch– without these things tangible, we can’t really feel love much.
Just like most plants need regular sunshine and water, we need regular caring expression from friend, spouse, son, or daughter. Mothers and fathers, brothers and sisters can affirm and encourage– we all can, for this world holds much that can discourage.
Friends and family are meant to uplift us and be a fortress in life; and when loving gestures abound, there will be little, if any, strife. When love is firmly founded thereby, we’ll be ready to reach out to those needing love from us whom we may meet on a daily route.
Jesus also said that we should love those who don’t love us back; sometimes, such love can move relationships onto the right track. At times, we must look past the things in some that seem odd– we may need to pray for the grace of the unconditional love of God.
For that love has been found to lead others to tangibly feel the love of the heavenly Father in a way that is real.
P. A. Oltrogge
“And hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us.” Romans 5:5
“These things I command you, that you love one another.” John 15:17
“Do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others.” Philippians 2:4
“Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil. Cling to what is good. Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, in honor giving preference to one another, not lagging in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord.” Romans 12:9-11
“And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you.” Ephesians 4:32
“And just as you want men to do to you, you also do to them likewise. But if you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners love those who love them. And if you do good to those who do good to you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners do the same. And if you lend to those from whom you hope to receive back, what credit is that to you? For even sinners lend to sinners to receive as much back. But love your enemies, do good, and lend, hoping for nothing in return; and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High. For He is kind to the unthankful and evil. Therefore be merciful just as your Father also is merciful.” Luke 6:31-36
“Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.” 1 John 4:11
…and a few of the many outreaches of the love of God:
“Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen.” Ephesians 3:20-21
Our Lord Jesus doesn’t do things for us in a manner that’s halfway. We need to keep that in mind in regard to that for which we pray.
Just as He provided Peter with a net-breaking, miraculous catch, or made a few fish and loaves into an enough-for-a-multitude batch…
and as He healed the blind man who first saw men as trees that were moving, Jesus went on to heal the man’s sight totally, His “completion” power proving.
Still today, He’s with us always, not doing things by half-measure; but He desires to see us whole, for that’s always His Father’s will and pleasure.
And for any kind of “answer to prayer” that doesn’t seem quite right, we wait upon the Lord for His very best, for His is the power and might.
Remember the wedding banquet in Cana, where the best wine served was the last. It was Jesus’ miraculous touch that caused the first wine to be outclassed.
Let’s be assured He will answer our prayers in a way that’s truly complete, thereby displaying to all, once again, that Jesus secured the devil’s defeat.
P. A. Oltrogge
See Mark 8 for the feeding of four thousand and the instance of the blind man receiving full sight. John 2:1-11 tells of Jesus turning water into wine.
“And of His fullness we have all received, and grace for grace. For the law was given through Moses, but grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.” John 1:16-17
“The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.” …spoken by Jesus in John 10:10
“But the Son of God came to destroy the works of the devil.” 1 John 3:8 NLT
“And in that day you will ask Me nothing. Most assuredly, I say to you, whatever you ask the Father in My name He will give you. Until now you have asked nothing in My name. Ask, and you will receive, that your joy may be full.” …spoken by Jesus in John 16:23-24
“…how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power, who went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with Him.” Acts 10:38
And Jesus’ words on the cross, “It is finished!” were words of completion of the will of God and His Father’s calling upon His life.
“But if we hope for what we do not see, we eagerly wait for it with perseverance.
“Likewise the Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. Now He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is, because He makes intercession for the saints according to the will of God.
“And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose. For whom He foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the firstborn among many brethren. Moreover whom He predestined, these He also called; whom He called, these He also justified; and whom He justified, these He also glorified.
“What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things?” Romans 8:25-32
“But thanks be to God, who always leads us in His triumph in Christ, and manifests through us the sweet aroma of the knowledge of Him in every place.” 2 Corinthians 2:14
“I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, always in every prayer of mine making request for you with all joy, for your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ….” Philippians 1:3-6
“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7
“Oh, that men would give thanks to the Lord for His goodness, and for His wonderful works to the children of men!” …from Psalm 107
“And Jesus called a little child unto Him, and set him in the midst of them, and said, ‘Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me.’” Matthew 18:2-5 (KJV)
A heart that is very tender, like that of a little child, is needed to perceive God’s chosen Lamb, who was perfect and undefiled.
Sweetly, Jesus came, long ago, as a baby on the hay; and, tenderly, He calls to each person yet today, to recognize God’s pathway to the Way, the Truth, and the Life, for eternity and, also, in this present world of strife.
Jesus laid down His life on a cross, and rose again so that we can be free, to draw from His strength in our own lives, helping others to also see–that they can be restored, to a heavenly Father who is gracious, to lead them in this life and then to a heaven, fair and spacious.
There will be room there for any person, who, like a little child, took…the gift freely offered by Jesus Christ, as recorded in God’s Holy Book.
Remember, please, its warning–not to be too “wise,” but to take of the offer that is proper in His Father’s eyes. Harden not your heart, for you’re meant to be relieved, of search for Truth by any other, than by Christ, in whom we’ve believed.
P. A. Oltrogge
“That is why the Holy Spirit says, ‘Today when you hear his voice, don’t harden your hearts as Israel did when they rebelled, when they tested me in the wilderness. There your ancestors tested and tried my patience, even though they saw my miracles for forty years.’” Hebrews 3:7-9 NLT
“So God set another time for entering his rest, and that time is today. God announced this through David much later in the words already quoted: ‘Today when you hear his voice, don’t harden your hearts.’” Hebrews 4:7 NLT
“Come to Me, all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” spoken by Jesus in Matthew 11:28 NASB
“Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life; no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.” John 14:5-7 KJV
“Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.” John 17:17 KJV
“And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart.” Jeremiah 29:13 NKJV
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths. Do not be wise in your own eyes; Fear the Lord and depart from evil. It will be health to your flesh, and strength to your bones.” Proverbs 3:5-8 NKJV
“Then people brought little children to Jesus for him to place his hands on them and pray for them. But the disciples rebuked them. Jesus said, ‘Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.’ When he had placed his hands on them, he went on from there.” Matthew 19:13-14 NIV
“Whoever believes that Jesus is the Christ is born of God, and everyone who loves Him who begot also loves him who is begotten of Him. By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God and keep His commandments. For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments. And His commandments are not burdensome. For whatever is born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world–our faith. Who is he who overcomes the world, but he who believes that Jesus is the Son of God?” 1 John 5:1-5 NKJV
“For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 6:23 NKJV
Jesus said, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” (Matt 11:28-29)
OUR SPECIAL ANGEL HAS ONCE AGAIN OFFERED TO MATCH ALL DONATIONS BEGINNING ON AUGUST 1’ST THROUGH THE END OF THE YEAR! I’M AMAZED BY WHAT ONLY GOD HAS DONE!!!
OUR NEXT LUNCHEON IN PALATINE WILL BE AUGUST 9’TH AND SO GRATEFUL THAT SWEET BABY RAY AND FRIENDS WILL BE HOSTING. MORE INFORMATION TO COME NEXT WEEK.
Good Morning! I am writing this note from Tim’s House as my friends are cooking their famous, delicious breakfast in the kitchen and people continue to walk through our doors. A wonderful man named Keith arrived early this morning because we are helping him find better housing, and hopefully a place in a senior building. Keith is 75 years old, lives at the YMCA, and is also battling cancer. (We are helping others who don’t have housing as well). Keith joined us for the first time last week. As we shared around the table, he began to cry and told us he had been contemplating whether he even wanted to keep living. Then he said, “Something told me to come to Tim’s House.” Since we are only a block away from the YMCA, he had heard about us but wasn’t sure what we were all about. As he opened up about feeling hopeless, especially while living in a small room without air conditioning (that’s another story) we prayed with him and shared the words of Jesus: “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” (Matthew 19:26) By the end of our time together, Keith said, “Something told me to come here today when I felt hopeless, and I know that voice was God.. I feel so much better.”He looks like a different person today, with a smile on his face. Please pray that we can help him move quickly into subsidized senior housing, for which he qualifies because of his age.
ANOTHER MAN IS WORKING FULL-TIME! We were all so excited last week when John walked through the door with wonderful news that he has been working at a Jewel warehouse for the past three months! I hadn’t seen him since he first got the job because he has been busy working, but he had a little time before his shift last Wednesday and stopped in to encourage everyone. He shared that he will soon be moving into better housing and wanted everyone to know that there is hope. With the biggest smile on his face, he lifted his arms and said, “This is all God!” He was especially grateful because this warehouse job pays $30 per hour, plus time-and-a-half for overtime, which he has been taking full advantage of as he saves for his future. In the past, something from many years ago in his background had kept him from getting a good job. But God made a way! His testimony encouraged so many people around the table, and he shared information about the job application process with others who are looking for work. We also helped three people last week with rent assistance because they were on the verge of being evicted. They were incredibly grateful, and it was only possible because of your faithful generosity.
Thank you so much for your prayers and financial support. Through God, you are making such a difference in the lives of people who experience the hope that can only be found in Jesus. .
“And Jesus went out, along with His disciples, to the villages of Caesarea Philippi; and on the way He questioned His disciples, saying to them, ‘Who do people say that I am?’ And they told Him, saying, ‘John the Baptist; and others say Elijah; but others, one of the prophets.’ And He continued by questioning them, ‘But who do you say that I am?’ Peter answered and said to Him, ‘Thou art the Christ.’ And He warned them to tell no one about Him.
“And He began to teach them that the Son of Man must suffer many things and be rejected by the elders and the chief priests and the scribes, and be killed, and after three days rise again. And He was stating the matter plainly. And Peter took Him aside and began to rebuke Him. But turning around and seeing His disciples, He rebuked Peter, and said, ‘Get behind Me, Satan; for you are not setting your mind on God’s interests, but man’s.’” Mark 8:27-33 NASB
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“But who do you say that I am?” Jesus asked His disciples….
Peter’s answer to the Lord that day was that He was the Christ, which was exactly right.
But, thereafter, Peter spoke amiss, for he hadn’t yet fully discerned the Lord’s role in the world’s most important spiritual fight.
“Get behind Me, Satan…” was Jesus’ firm rebuke to what Peter said.
He didn’t comprehend the necessity of what Jesus would suffer which was ahead.
On one occasion, Peter had doubts in obeying Jesus, to cast out his fishing nets, having worked all night;
yet, in another instance, he boldly walked on the water to meet Him, but, then, gave in to fright….
Again, at the Last Supper, when the Lord came to Peter to wash his feet,
he didn’t initially understand the Father’s direction that Jesus was wanting to meet.
Then, when he denied the Lord three times after Jesus had been seized and led away,
he became an example of one who repents and goes on to serve God, receiving mercy for a “new day.”
After Jesus’ resurrection, Peter eagerly jumped from his boat into the water to meet the Lord who had appeared on the shore.
There, Jesus asked him three times if he loved Him, knowing he would love and serve Him now all the more.
Peter indeed went on to “feed My sheep” as Jesus, his Lord, had made request.
We, too, though imperfect followers of Christ, can carry forth the gospel’s work, so that others will be blessed.
P. A. Oltrogge
“He said to him the third time, ‘Simon, son of Jonah, do you love Me?’ Peter was grieved because He said to him the third time, ‘Do you love Me?’
“And he said to Him, ‘Lord, You know all things; You know that I love You.’
“Jesus said to him, ‘Feed My sheep.’”
John 21:17 NKJV
(…from John 13:1-17; John 13:36-38; Matthew 26:31-35; Matthew 26:69-75; Luke 22:54-62)
…and as minister Joseph Prince often reminds the members of his congregation of believers in Christ, “You are deeply loved and highly favored and are the righteousness of God in Christ…”
“But now the righteousness of God apart from the law is revealed, being witnessed by the Law and the Prophets, even the righteousness of God, through faith in Jesus Christ, to all and on all who believe. For there is no difference; for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,” Romans 3:21-23
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new. Now all things are of God, who has reconciled us to Himself through Jesus Christ, and has given us the ministry of reconciliation, that is, that God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself, not imputing their trespasses to them, and has committed to us the word of reconciliation.
“Now then, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were pleading through us: we implore you on Christ’s behalf, be reconciled to God. For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.” 2 Corinthians 5:17-21
The Porch of the Lord 