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Monday, June 17, 2024

Reading this special book

 

Most religions of the world have a focus on one person hoping for enlightenment. The Bible is focused on Jesus the Messiah. The Bible is so much more than a guide book for living. The continuing theme from the many different Old Testament writers, is the hope of the Messiah, the King, the Saviour, the final revealer of the Lord God.

The New Testament was written was written about the life of Jesus the Christ and His being the Messiah, the King, the Saviour for all people.

The first four records of His life describe His birth, His life, His teaching, His miracles, His death and resurrection. The evidence for His claim to be the “Son of the Blessed” (Mark 14), is abundant. The purpose of His death is clearly explained by the Lord Jesus in His own words and the teaching of His Apostles.

We do well to study in depth the subject of Jesus death. The links to the Old Testament are important. But through the New Testament, the focus is on the Lord Jesus Christ alive from death – now in the place of highest honour in heaven.

When reading the New Testament, remember it is about a living person who delights to  act and interact with all who truly trust and love Him.

-      A living Saviour to bring us forgiveness.

-      A living Shepherd to lead us through life.

-       A living Lord to guard and guide us through life.

-       A living Advocate to maintain our fellowship with God.

-       A living King, who will make His appearance at the set time.

 

This is not a dead religion belonging to an ancient past. This is a relationship with a living Lord, achieved by His grace.


jiohnmckee@internode.on.net

Sunday, June 9, 2024

Bible

 

For those people new to the Bible I write:

This book begins with God making the world. God made all things very good.

After that, humans rebelled and sin (attitudes and actions against God), has caused trouble for thousands of years.

The Bible is a history of God the LORD seeking to connect with people. Many responded – Noah, Abraham, Samuel, David, Isaiah, Daniel…

After many years God the Father sent His Son, Jesus into the world. This part of Bible history is called the New Testament.

Jesus spoke God’s words to the people, but also showed them what God was like.

He rebuked sin (like selfish greed). This showed people the holiness of God.

His compassion and healing for so many showed the undeserved favour of God (grace).

As you read the Old Testament and the New, you will notice how often it mentions sacrifices for sins, so that people could be friends with God again. Jesus stated clearly that this was the greatest purpose of His mission. He died, as recorded, for a purpose. This purpose is clearly explained by His Apostles in their writings at the end of the Bible. (He died and rose again to bring forgiveness and acceptance with God).

For many this large book is too big to read through (especially those learning English). Remember it is 66 different books written at different times.

My advise :- Read the history of humanity, enjoy the prayers and songs (Psalms), read slowly the four biographies of Jesus and search carefully the teachings of the Apostles (New Testament).

For those searching with a sincere heart, God by the Holy Spirit promises true enlightenment and understanding.