11 October 2010 0 Comments

What if Christ was not Born?

The birth of a child brings joy and new meaning to the family. But let us ask ourselves,

  • What if our sons and daughter were not born?
  • Can we exchange their presence with their absence?

Like the birth of Christ that brings joy to many who believed in His name, even to those who profess to believe in Him, we can ask the same question. What if Christ was not born, can there be good reason to rejoice?

DEATH BETTER THAN BIRTH

Ecc 7:1 A good name is better than precious ointment;and the day of death than the day of one’s birth.

Among the book in the Bible that talks about much on vanities can be found in Ecclesiastes. But we also have to understand that if the Bible is only until the Old Testament or until the book of Ecclesiastes, then excluding the account that a Savior was born, surely every labor under the sun is vain. That is why the author who experienced almost every good thing under the sun wrote it. But considering the birth of our Lord only a person who has faith on His first coming (Heb.11:13) and those with an encounter with Him is worthy to face his death (Lk.2:26-29; Php.1:21). What profit is there in living and dying if Christ is foreign in one’s life?

Many people cannot realize the value of one thing unless they see the opposite. Many of us cannot realize the value of one’s presence unless we learned of his absence. Like the death of Christ we can only realize it through the value of His birth. There is no death of Christ without the birth of Christ. Let us contemplate from the normal occurrences of one’s birth and let us see the essence of Christ’s birth.

HIS BIRTH MAKES OUR BIRTH BETTER

1. The birth of a child brings relief

Joh 16:21 A woman when she is in travail hath sorrow, because her hour is come: but as soon as she is delivered of the child, she remembereth no more the anguish, for joy that a man is born into the world.

Pregnancy is a 9 month course in a mother’s life. The pain on daily adjustments until labor is unbearable. I think that no mother will desire to carry her baby in the womb for the rest of her life or even one year because even a delay of delivery amounts to worry. She’s like a student desiring graduation. But when the baby was born the pains were relieved.

The birth of Christ is important. Without it there will be no relief for all of our pain (Rm.7:24-25).( Isa 53:5 But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed. )

2. The birth of a child brings new relationship

Gal 4:4 But when the fullness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law, Gal 4:5 To redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons.

The family is not just all about husband and wife relationship. After the birth of their first child a new relationship emerged. There comes a mother and child relationship, a father and child relationship and a father, mother and child relationship. If there’s already a child a brother to brother, a brother to sister and a sister to sister relationship was added. It means there’s a new relationship that was developed.

The birth of Christ brought about a new relationship. We received adoption, a relationship which is legal and has no difference with the child by virtue of birth. Those who believed in Him received sonship (Gal 3:26 For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus. Joh 1:12 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: )

Eph 1:5 Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will,

3. The birth of a child brings rejoicing

Luk 1:14 And thou shalt have joy and gladness; and many shall rejoice at his birth.

Luk 1:57-58Now Elisabeth’s full time came that she should be delivered; and she brought forth a son. And her neighbors and her cousins heard how the Lord had showed great mercy upon her; and they rejoiced with her.

The birth of a child brings joy to the mother, father, attendant and the rest of the family and friends. It is like a gift was given them and it amounts to rejoicing. Even in some cases of an unwanted pregnancy joy seems unexplainable after birthing. Except for unsuccessful labor, almost after one’s birth joy is always an expected guest (Jn.16:21).

The birth of Christ is a source of greater joy for all people. (Luk 2:10-11 And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord.)

4. The birth of a child brings report

Luk 2:15 -17 And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us. And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger. And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child.

It is a must that once a baby was born a report has to be made and commonly it is written. The attendant has to do the charting, and then the hospital or any responsible person has to deliver it to the proper authorities so that it will be included in the National Statistic office. The most common report is announcing to the relatives that it is a ‘boy’ or a ‘girl’. It is always good news although in some case when the baby is a girl, or when hospital bills are too much at times the father is hesitant to announce it.

The birth of Christ is called “good tidings of great joy’ (Lk.2:10-11). There’s no bit of shadow to hesitate or be ashamed to report it. Like the shepherds who reported Christ’s birth to others many were amazed. Paul is not ashamed to tell anyone about the gospel (Rm.1:16). We too have to report this to other people.(Luk 2:17-18 And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child. And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds.)

5. The birth of a child brings new rule

Mat 2:6 And thou Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, art not the least among the princes of Judah: for out of thee shall come a Governor, that shall rule my people Israel.

In a family, when a baby was born, a new rule or standard happens and consequently a new role was developed. Everyone is required to welcome and care for the baby. The father or any elder brother takes care of the mother’s incapacity. It sounds as if a new ruler was born that demands immediate attention especially when the baby cries. I think that all will agree that no one dares to question the baby; in fact all of us were saying comforting words “Baby, what do you want?” Everyone learns responsibility even for a first time parents.

The birth of Christ demands even a greater rule and affects a greater role to those who believe Him. Christ must be the reigning King, the Lord or highest authority in our life (Mt.2:1-2). It is a requirement for all that sovereignty must be directed to Him. However, only few realized it in their life. (Isa 9:6 For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. )

6.The birth of a child brings realization of promise

Heb 11:11 Through faith also Sarah herself received strength to conceive seed, and was delivered of a child when she was past age, because she judged him faithful who had promised.

Among the parents the father expects the promise of a bearer of their names. When they were married they have vows or exchange of promise and a child is result of that.

The birth of Christ was the fulfillment of the first promise of God’s providence. (Gen 3:15 And I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise his heel. ) That is why in Christ we are victorious and more than conquerors (Rm.8:37) and that is we can also overcome because Christ has defeated the enemy at the cross of calvary. Through Him we experienced God’s promise to mankind.

2Co 1:20 For all the promises of God in him are yea, and in him Amen, unto the glory of God by us.

7. The birth of a child brings remedy

Luk 1:24-25 And after those days his wife Elisabeth conceived, and hid herself five months, saying,  Thus hath the Lord dealt with me in the days wherein he looked on me, to take away my reproach among men.

The birth of a child is like removing something undesirable, like removing a reproach[Sarah (Gen.16:1-6), Rachel (Gen.30:1), Hannah (1 Sam.1:1-7)]. Even in our time when you have no child people may look upon you as accursed, but once you have a child as if a reproach or shameful thing was taken away.

The birth of our Lord is very important. For without Him no one is worthy to take away our reproach, our sorrows. (Isa 53:4 Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted.) Christ has given us a solution to sin problem (Ephesians 1:7)

8. The birth of a child brings redemption

Mat 1:21 And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins.

During pregnancy the parents are like investing while the baby was still in the womb. Finances, sacrifice and many things were given out for the sake of the baby. When a baby was born parents think that what they all invested was at last paid in full or what they had given up was redeemed or “buy back” or has something good in return.

When Christ was born God showed to Simeon His redemption (Lk.2:30), to Anna (Lk.2:38), to John (Jn.1:29) and to us. Apart from Him there is no redemption. No one is worthy to break the bondage but Him (Heb.2:14-15).

Gal 4:4-5 But when the fullness 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.

9. The birth of a child brings new revelation

Luk 2:11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord.

Family members are excited as the baby was born. They all come up with new ideas in caring for their babies as if a new revelation was shown on them.

Like the birth of Christ, a new revelation was shared to all of us. God showed it already to Elizabeth (Lk.1:43) and to the shepherds that this child Jesus is Lord. The Lordship of men brings bondage and chaos but Christ’s Lordship brings freedom and order. Without His Lordship mankind is doomed. There can be no salvation apart from His Lordship.

Rom 10:13 For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.

10. The birth of a child brings reconciliation

Among the factor in the contention between husband and wife is lack of progeny. At least for those who still don’t have it and have gone long years with an intact marriage they have already learned and overcome the torment or pressure of its absence. In the quarreling couple the birth of a child reunites them. It may not resolve every conflicts but the degree of enmity has been diminished.

The birth of Christ brings reconciliation. It is in God’s foreknowledge shared to us that one can be “at-one-ment” or union with Him only through His Son in which the very means is fulfilled in His death at the cross. Without the birth of Christ no one is worthy to die to bring us back to God.

Rom 5:10-11 For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life. And not only so, but we also joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the atonement.

11. The birth of a child brings peace

Rom 5:1 Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ:

When the baby was born peace is developed. No one is allowed to shout or attempt to make a noise that will disturb the baby especially when he/she is asleep. Silence is observed and a must. It is a shame to make a noise.

The birth of our Lord brings peace. He is our Prince of Peace (Isa.9:6). We only have peace with God through Him. The world viewed peace as the absence of trouble/war but we are taught that peace is seen in the midst of war, problem and trouble and it is only in Him (Jn.16:33). A person can only have true peace when he is at peace with God. For when God looks upon us His wrath abides and is only taken away as we believed His Son

Joh 3:36 He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.

Rom 5:9 Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him.

12. The birth of a child brings recollection

When a baby was born we are reminded of the same experience. It’s like the father remembered when he’s a baby, or the mother was reminded how her mother/parents cared for, or we are reminded how cute we were and how others were captivated by our coming. Our birth serves as a reminder not just about us but also about our parents’ sacrifice especially our mothers.

The birth of Christ must remind us of many things especially God’s grace for us (Joh 1:17 For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ. ) We may not remember the essence of why we were born but we will realize our value as we understood why the Lord Jesus takes human form for our sake (Heb.2:14-18).

Heb 2:14-18 Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil; 15And deliver them who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage. 16For verily he took not on him the nature of angels; but he took on him the seed of Abraham.17 Wherefore in all things it behooved him to be made like unto his brethren, that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people.18 For in that he himself hath suffered being tempted, he is able to succor them that are tempted.

13. The birth of a child brings riches

Pro 17:6 Children’s children are the crown of old men; and the glory of children are their fathers.

When a baby was born a new value in the family was added. A dimensional increase was achieved in the family, from their personalities, lifestyles and their very possession. The baby is more than a treasure, gold, diamond or a precious stone. You will want to loose anything, even your life, but not your son or your daughter. Their birth is like gaining a precious possession or riches in your family.

The birth of our Lord commences God’s greatest giving. This world may offer abundance but no riches can surpass what one can truly and only have in Christ. Many are rich in this world but poor in the sight of God (Lk.12:16-21). The Lord Jesus made us valuable and have true riches.

2Co 8:9 For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich.

Eph 1:3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ:

14. The birth of a child brings race

Pro 13:22 A good man leaveth an inheritance to his children’s children: and the wealth of the sinner is laid up for the just.

A family who has no children may become hopeless that their race be erased (Gen.19:30-36). Only the birth of a baby brings about a restoration of a race in the sense that somebody will take the place of their parents as they passed away. Most likely the father wants a baby boy to carry his name .But I was told that in some country, like Panama, the name of the mother is being carried.

The birth of Christ brings a new race, new connection, and new nature. We all are identified in Adam, or our connection at first before we believe is with the first man (Rm.5:14-21; 1 Co.15:45-57) and because of it what happens to him consequently happens to us.

1Co 15:22 For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive.

A person can only have new birth, new connection and new nature through Christ (Jn.1:12;3:3-7). And as we became God’s progeny we also are entitled of inheritance (Acts 26:18). We became heir of God and we have the liberty to call Him as our Father (Rm.8:15). Gal 4:6-7 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.

This race is a heavenly one and not an earthly one.

2Co 5:17 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.

15. The birth of a child brings reason to hope

Mat 1:23 Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.

As the baby was born a hope to long for the future comes up. Parents dreamed about of what they will become and they strive for it with that hope of fulfilling those dreams.

The birth of Christ brings hope. Mankind, most especially the Gentile people, are hopeless. But we were given hope through Christ(Eph.2:11-12)

Eph 2:11 Wherefore remember, that ye being in time past Gentiles in the flesh, who are called Uncircumcision by that which is called the Circumcision in the flesh made by hands; Eph 2:12 That at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world:

Col 1:27 To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory:

1Ti 1:1 Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the commandment of God our Savior, and Lord Jesus Christ, which is our hope;

BECAUSE HE WAS BORN

If Christ was not born all these things are not possible for us to obtain in His sight. But because He was born let us thank God for the birth of our Lord. It may not be said specifically on the 25 of December or this Christmas season but we know the very essence of His birth.

Luk 2:14 Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.

(Note: It is not the intention of this article to demean those who have not given birth.)


11 October 2010 0 Comments

The Star of Christ

Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem,2 Saying, Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him.3 When Herod the king had heard these things, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him.4 And when he had gathered all the chief priests and scribes of the people together, he demanded of them where Christ should be born.5 And they said unto him, In Bethlehem of Judea: for thus it is written by the prophet,6 And thou Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, art not the least among the princes of Judah: for out of thee shall come a Governor, that shall rule my people Israel.7 Then Herod, when he had privily called the wise men, inquired of them diligently what time the star appeared.8 And he sent them to Bethlehem, and said, Go and search diligently for the young child; and when ye have found him, bring me word again, that I may come and worship him also.9 When they had heard the king, they departed; and, lo, the star, which they saw in the east, went before them, till it came and stood over where the young child was.10 When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy. Mat 2:1-10

There was a story about the wise men searching for the king that was born. Being from the country in the east they saw the star afar. These wise men were not Israelites but Gentiles who inquired about the new born King of the Jews. They were looking for Him to pay homage. They were not kings and they were probably guided by prophesy (Num.24:17) concerning the Star of Jacob. That is why after their searching they have concluded that it was His star.

Aside from the prophetic utterance in the book of Numbers we were not given exact details about this star. But as far as ‘stars’ and Astronomy are concerned we are taught that God created them all to serve as light in the night (Gen.1:16) not as a symbol to worship (Deut.4:19).They were numerous (Gen.22:17; Ps.8:3 & Deut.1:10) yet the Lord can count them all and even knew each names (Ps.147:4). They are located high above the sky (Jo 22:12) sealed and set in place (Job 9:7).

The stars differ in glory (1 Co.15:41).There is a star called Acturus which is the brightest star. The Orion which is a constellation of 80 stars .The Pleiades which is the cluster of 7 stars (Job.9:9) and the Wormwood (Rev.22:16) which is a star connected to destruction in the last days.

There is also a counterfeit star which is the devil (Isa.14:12) who even transformed himself as an angel of light (2 Co.11:14) but our Lord is called the bright morning star (Rev.2216) as distinct from the fallen one. He is the true Light that shines to all.

IT WAS HIS STAR: v.2

The star that we are going to talk about was called as His star. The very remarkable things about this star is that among all stars this one seems more evident than the others shining distinctly to signal the birth of our Lord. Second, it was “His star”. In the Scripture other gods were symbolized by stars like Moloch and Chiun (Amos 5:26) and Remphan (Acts 7:43) but this star was His. Like the stars, we have to be reminded that if we believed already we are His (2 Tim.2:19;1 Co.6:19-20;Rm.8:9). We are created by Him and for Him (Col.1:16).The very purpose of ownership is exclusivity. We are not owned by anybody else but by Him.

IT APPEARS: v.7

It is common that stars appear when the Sun already set. Stars are lesser lights to rule the nights and here we can see that their time of appearance is when things seem dark. This is because of the fact that the beauties of the stars are visible not where the situation is visible for all but when things seem dark. It is something that symbolizes hope and when you couldn’t see it at night it seems as if heavy rains will fall, or typhoons have come. Or when you are experiencing heavy rains or typhoons its appearance would mean a relief.

Act 27:20 And when neither sun nor stars in many days appeared, and no small tempest lay on us, all hope that we should be saved was then taken away.

As a believer we have to be like stars. When people around us seem loosing hope then our appearance must bring a relief and comfort. And that is we are going to tell them about our Lord Jesus which could encourage them all the more.

THE STAR WENT BEFORE THEM: v.9

The very goal of this star is to lead these seekers to the Lord Jesus and not to deceive people although in some case many were deceived that they still worship it (Deut.4:19).On the other hand, we have to remember that we are to serve as lights ( Php.2:15) and that we should shine ( Mt.5:16;2 Pet.1:19).We are to serve as light to lead others out of darkness and not like blind guides (Rm.2:19) unto destruction.

IT CAME AND STOOD WHERE THE LORD JESUS IS: v.9

This star remained where the Lord Jesus is. Unlike the world and even some Christians, when they reached what they longed for they left Jesus behind. They were overcome by their circumstances and goals. But the star is not overcome by darkness even if it stands alone it still shines. It just remained as a star in place even if at times clouds covered their beauties. But there are stars that never stood in place and you called them as falling stars or those God caused to shine no more. But we have to be in place, and that is where the Lord Jesus is because He is our foundation (1 Co.3:11; Eph.2:22).No building is strong enough if it is separated from its foundation. But we have to remain steadfast and unmovable (1 Co.15:58). We must stand in the foundation, we must be like branches remaining in the Vine,the Lord Jesus(Jn.15:1-7).

WHEN THEY SAW THE STAR THEY REJOICED: v.10

Nowadays, only few people appreciate the stars in the sky. Not only because there are many synthetic lights that caught their attentions but because many are afraid of light lest their deeds be exposed (Jn.3:19-22).These three wise men, we knew that they were three men (Mt.2:11) because of their gifts, were ordained to caught the attention of its light. There were some who inquired but it does not interest them to look for the treasure behind its existence (Mt.2:7).This passage also tells us that this star was not appreciated by Millions but only by few. Like us, we may not lead many others to appreciate our being Christians but at least if we are believers our lives will bring impact to them, to few people and to whom it is least expected, that we may lead them to Christ. When we fulfilled the purpose that God has for us, when they know the saving grace of our Lord Jesus, indeed others are led to rejoice.

2Co 1:14 As also ye have acknowledged us in part, that we are your rejoicing, even as ye also are ours in the day of the Lord Jesus.

LET US BE LIKE HIS STAR

As believers in Christ, let us be like His Star and one who is exclusively His and for His purpose. One who brings hope and lead others, not a wandering one (Jude 1:13) but one which is evident for others not to see only us, known and read by all man (2 Co.3:2) and that we may lead them to see the Lord Jesus in us (Php.1:20).The world around us and its people are excelling in many ways and they were considered as “Stars”. But we are stars that excel for our Lord Jesus. Let us not withhold the light that is in us. It was His light and we just have to let it shine not just for a moment but as long as we have breath.

Dan 12:3 And they that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament;

and they that turn many to righteousness

as the stars forever and ever.

11 October 2010 0 Comments

Like Bethlehem

Mat 2:6 And thou Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, art not the least among the princes of Judah: for out of thee shall come a Governor, that shall rule my people Israel.

Every place has its markings, distinctive, fames and fortunes, etc. In the Scripture, there are places, for example like Bethlehem, which can be a source of some reflections in our daily lives.

The Lord Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea (Mt.2:1) and it is to be distinguished from another Bethlehem (Joshua 19:15) from a town of the same name in Galilee. ‘The place is a small town about six miles south of Jerusalem’ (according to some Christian references). The word “Bethlehem” denotes “house of bread” – perhaps given to the place on account of its great fertility. It was also called Ephrata, a word supposed likewise to signify fertility, Gen_35:19; Rth_4:11; Psa_132:6. It was also called the city of David Luk_2:4, because it was the city of his nativity, 1Sa_16:1, 1Sa_16:18. The place is a small one as far as population is concerned. As I study the scriptures I learned something about the place.

  • Bethlehem is known for its bounty supply. There were green pasture and fertile hills and valleys according to David in Psalm 23:1-4, 1 Samuel 16:11. Many livestock were being produced as a result of it. Not all places are conducive in raising animals, but Bethlehem is one. You can find the famous water source not only for animals Ps.23:2 but especially for King David who longed for the water at the well of Bethlehem2 Samuel 23:15 .But compared to other cities of Judah it is still a small one and its supply pales in comparison.
  • Bethlehem is known for its base sacrifice1 Samuel 20:6. All families were there yearly yet it doesn’t make her that famous compared to others.
  • Bethlehem is known for brave soldiers. Many mighty men came from this place. For example, among king David’s mighty man is from Bethlehem. Elhanan,2 Samuel 21:19, 1Chronicle 20:5 the son of Jaare-oregim. He slew Lahmi, the brother of Goliath. Asahel who is among the 30 mighty man of David2Sam.23:24. Remember also the three mighty man of David who drew water for him at the well of Bethlehem. That bravery is still recorded. And who can forget the man who triumphed against the giant Goliath1 Samuel 16, 29:5.David himself who became king and a man after God’s own heart. That is why Bethlehem is known for bravery yet as compared to other tribes of Judah it is nothing and their 100 soldiers cannot surpass the thousands soldiers of other tribes.
  • Bethlehem is known for its battle strategy. During the time of Rehoboam, this place became a defense city of Judah during their battle against Israel2Chronicle 11:5-6.This was formerly among the Philistine’s garrison2 Samuel 23:14.This will not be so if the place is not a strategic place for keeping armaments and supplies yet as compared to other places this still became insignificant.
  • Bethlehem is known for its burial site: When personalities in our societies, like Mayors, Judges, Senators, etc., were buried in a cemetery the media always make it a point to take note of the place again and again making it a familiar place to many. Like Bethlehem it is also a place known for its burial site because of Jacob’s wifeGen.35:19-20, judgeJudges 12:8-10, soldiers2Sam.2:32 and king1Kings 2:10 yet as compared to others it is still found wanting and least among Judah.

With all these things Bethlehem is small in comparison to the other tribes and lowly yet the Lord had chosen her. Almost in every case the Lord chooses what is small in man’s eyes to make Him known. God accomplishes great things through small things or even things considered by this world as foolish (1Co.1:26-29). That’s why we dare not to boast if we are in abundance, progressing, prospering, highly recognized and let us not even belittle those unfavorable and seemed insignificant. We can relate some examples like in local congregations. When some matters arose always in every case those socially well known and influential, those highly esteemed, are always called and consulted to deal with the issues. But in the Scripture it is the other way.

1Co 6:4 If then ye have judgments of things pertaining to this life, set them to judge who are least esteemed in the church.

Here’s another story from the Scripture when a city was conquered by a great king a poor but wise man delivered the city yet he was forgotten (Ecc.9:14-15). Still we can see that a lowly is used by God. When Israel was challenged by Philistines’ champion, Goliath, only a lad match that Giant though he is mocked(1 Samuel 17:).When children came to Jesus yet was forbidden by disciples the Lord was displeased (Mark 10:14) and even uses them as an example(Matthew 18:2-6). When a small amount was given as an offering (Mark 12:41-44) it was better than a showy or bulky giving from rich men.

Still we must be thankful that from Bethlehem we have a

  • Born Savior:With Bethlehem’s greatness and fame it is still small compared to others that’s why it is said to be the least among the princes of Judah Matthew 2:6. But because Jesus Christ the Messiah will be born in that place that was set aside. Christ made that city a great one in the entire world. If not for the Lord Jesus being born in that place, Bethlehem will be among the least. But because Christ was born in that place it is said “art not the least.” The birth of a distinguished personage was always supposed to give honor and importance to a city or country. Christ’s birth gave the place an honor which could not be conferred on the larger cities by all their numbers, their splendor, and their wealth.

This is a precious truth, that even in a place, even in a congregation, if Christ is absent, if He is not magnified, manifested or glorified, it’s greatness is as valuable as nothing. Even in a person, what does it profit a man if he gaineth the whole world and yet forfeits his own soul?” Or maybe he has treasure for himself but not rich toward God (Luke 12:21). It is the presence of Christ that makes the worth. Whatever bounty we had acquired in this world, whatever power and bravery we displayed, whatever blamelessness we had because of our sacrifices, whatever victories you gained in your personal battle and whatever titles and fame you can bring with you in your grave, we have to count it all with what Paul said

“ But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ. Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ, And be found in Him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith:” Philippians 3:7-9

Always in every case it is the Christ in us that makes us something. If we have not experience a new birth so that He becomes formed in us then our life is in vain. But because of Him we were given worth. And like Bethlehem we may have many things in common. But let us not focus on those common things but on a special one. The world is focused in making known of their supply and sources, sacrifices and success, strategy and security and all their stories ends only in sorrow, the grave. But we who believed in Christ have to make known only one thing, Christ in us. Our stories start and must end only about Him. May we continue to proclaim His greatness in our daily lives because apart from Him our life is meaningless. We may not be the greatest in this world but He is great in us.

For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth,

visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers:

all things were created by him, and for him:

And he is before all things, and by him all things consist.

Col 1:16-17

21 September 2010 1 Comment

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By the grace of God you are led to this site.  I believe this is for you and this is what exactly what God wants you to do as He said in His words “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. “ 2 Timothy 2:15

This is my only intention, That you may be led to study His words for the glory of no man but for His greater glory alone through Christ the One Head and Lord. And as you grow in the knowledge of Him may you grow in serving Him by serving others.

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What you may read on this web may not be according to your creed but this is not what my mind says but only what the Blessed book says. See for yourself whether these things were true. Ads were not of the author but its usefulness depends on your purchase and usage. Some comments may not always be favorable but let’s look on it as constructive. It is best to have an open King James Bible as your basis.May you have an open heart to come and learn and to go and share as you continue to receive the abundant blessings of the Almighty.

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ:

Ephesians 1:3

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