November 2000 - Focusing On Jesus

Focusing On Jesus

""Therefore, since we have so great a cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us also lay aside every encumbrance, and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God"" (Heb. 12:1-2, emphasis added). more...

Focusing On Jesus
As Lord and King

We have come to a time of year when much to-do will be made about baby Jesus. In truth, one cannot be sorry that Jesus chose to wear a robe of flesh and personally come to effect our rescue. Yet even the briefest glance at scripture reveals the precious little emphasis upon Jesus as an infant and the over-riding concern that we see Jesus as Lord, as King. A study along these lines can be tremendously challenging. more...

Focusing On Jesus
At Work

""Slaves, in all things obey those who are your masters on earth, not with external service, as those who merely please men, but with sincerity of heart, fearing the Lord. Whatever you do, do your work heartily, as for the Lord rather than for men; knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance. It is the Lord Christ whom you serve"" (Col. 3:22-24). more...

Focusing On Jesus'
True Suffering

I recently heard a story about a man who, in an attempt to impress upon the audience the sufferings of Jesus, brought out a scourge and proceeded to beat on the Lord's table as he discussed the scourging received by the Savior. Not only is this kind of effort overly theatrical, but it is misguided as well, for it fails completely to take into account the true suffering of Jesus. While no one here has attempted such drama, sometimes we fail to focus on what really hurt Jesus. more...

Focusing On Jesus
The Teacher

What volumes of information are contained in Mark's simple statement ""The common people heard Him gladly"" (Mark 12:37)! While never wanting to fall into the old trap of treating Jesus as simply a wise sage or great teacher we cannot doubt that He was the greatest Teacher of all time. Let us notice the characteristics of Jesus as teacher, so that when we have opportunity to teach the Gospel we can duplicate in our lives the patterns of the Master. more...

Focusing On Jesus'
Return

It is of interest to me that even in the first century much controversy about the return of Jesus circulated. John's gospel (see John 21:22ff) and the Thessalonican and Corinthian correspondence all reference misconceptions about the Second Coming of Jesus. more...

Focusing On Jesus
When No One Is Watching

Most of us have little trouble being a Christian when surrounded by those who have fellowship with us in worshiping God. Many even have an easy time continuing to serve God in the workplace or in our recreation, because we know others are watching. But what about when we are alone? Is it easy to be a Christian then? Or do we struggle with a life with God when no one is watching? more...