Chronological Bible Blog

Matthew 21:28-32; Mark 12:1-12; Matthew 21:33-46; Luke 20:9-19; Matthew 22:1-14; Mark 12:13-17; Matthew 22:15-22; Luke 20:20-26; Mark 12:18-27; Matthew 22:23-33; Luke 20:27-40
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Matthew: Jesus’ teaching in Matthew chapter 21 verses 31 & 32 is convicting: “I assure you, corrupt tax collectors and prostitutes will get into the Kingdom of God before you do. For John the Baptist came and showed you the way to life, and you didn’t believe him, while tax collectors and prostitutes did. And even when you saw this happening, you refused to turn from your sins and believe him.”  This last sentence is so important for our relationship with Jesus.  Have we turned from our sins?  Do we believe Jesus’ teachings are showing us the way to life?  Do we believe that Jesus is who he said he was?  Do we believe that Jesus can heal us now and free us now from what enslaves us today?  And do we believe that Jesus literally gives us the gift of life everlasting?  Below is an image of “The Parable of the Vineyard” by John S. C. Abbott and Jacob Abbott from the Illustrated New Testament (1878):

Verse 42 is so beautiful as Jesus quotes from Psalm 118:22-23: “Then Jesus asked them, “Didn’t you ever read this in the Scriptures? `The stone rejected by the builders has now become the cornerstone. This is the Lord’s doing, and it is marvelous to see.’” And Jesus – like the son of the farmer in the parable just before this verse – was rejected and murdered.  However, Jesus didn’t remain dead – he rose on the third day and today he is the cornerstone of Christianity.  He is the cornerstone of our churches.  And probably the biggest question each of us needs to ask ourselves – Is Jesus the cornerstone of our life?  Is he the foundation in our life which anchors and directs everything else we do?  If Jesus is the cornerstone of our lives, then indeed as this verse closes with, it is marvelous to see!  Commentary on the Story of Two Sons in today’s Matthew readings is online at bible.org at this link. 

Today we read in Matthew chapter 22 the Parable of the Wedding Banquet. This parable has always been so convicting to me personally. It’s basically about a king preparing an amazing feast at a wedding banquet, and inviting a ton of people to come to the feast. But – the people don’t accept the invitation! They are “too busy” – taking care of their fields and their businesses. And I think about this parable in my own life. Am I sometimes “too busy” to accept Jesus’ invitation to be with him? Am I sometimes too focused on my work or my social life or other distractions? Do I get myself so “distracted” that I don’t spend time with Jesus? And in doing this, am I missing out on an amazing spiritual feast? How about you? Do you believe that Jesus is inviting you to spend more time with him? Are you “too busy” to do so? Do you believe that spending time with Jesus will actually be an amazing spiritual feast for your soul? Will you accept Jesus’ invitation to the wedding banquet?

In verse 21 we read Jesus’ famous line “”give to Caesar what belongs to him. But everything that belongs to God must be given to God.”  What you may not realize about the preceding verses is that the Pharisees and the supporters of Herod were trying to trap Jesus.  Per the OYB Companion commentary, The Pharisees, a religious group, opposed the Roman occupation of Palestine.  The followers of Herod – or Herodians – were a political party that supported the policies of Rome and Herod Antipas.  Normally these 2 groups did not get along at all – but they united here to try to trap Jesus.  If Jesus had said it was right to pay taxes to Caesar, the Pharisees would say he is opposed to God.  And if Jesus had said the taxes should not be paid, the Herodians would have had him arrested.  Jesus answer amazed them both…   Below is an image of the Denarius (Roman coin) of Tiberius Caesar. Tiberius (42 B.C. – A.D. 37) became Roman Emperor in A.D. 14. This would have been the picture on the coin shown to Jesus, when he asked in verse 20: “Whose picture and title are stamped on it?”

Worship Video:  Today’s readings about Jesus inviting us to his feast remind me of the Francesca Battiselli song “I’m Letting Go:”

Are you letting go? Click here and let go!

Please join us in memorizing and meditating on a verse of Scripture today: “”Give to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s.” Matthew 22:21 NIV

Prayer Point: Pray that God would show you what in your life He would have you give only to Him.

Comments from You:  What verses or insights stand out to you in today’s readings?  Please post up by clicking on the “Comments” link below!

God bless,
Mike

p.s. Download our monthly Small Group study notes for our Chronological Bible readings at this link.

p.s. #2 – Download a schedule of our Chronological Bible readings for the year in PDF format at this link.

p.s. #3 – I would greatly appreciate it if you would pray for this Chronological Bible Blog ministry today! Please also consider partnering with us by financially supporting this ministry. Thank you!

John 12:37-50; Mark 11:12-14; Matthew 21:18-22; Mark 11:15-19; Matthew 21:12-17; Luke 19:45-48; Mark 11:20-33; Matthew 21:23-27; Luke 20:1-8
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Matthew: Today in Matthew chapter 21 verse 22 we read these words from Jesus: “If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer.””  This is a powerful verse if you really stop and think about it…  Do you believe Jesus’ teaching here?  Do you believe that if you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer?  I do believe this… but then there is always in the back of my mind – “but what about so-and-so who was ill and was praying in belief that they would be healed.  But then they weren’t…”   I don’t have any easy answer on this one.  I have to believe there are probably some good resources out there for this tough question?  If you know of any resources / books on this subject of prayer – or, more specifically, unanswered prayers – please post up in the Comments section below?  Thanks.

Today we read in Mark 11 verse 17: “Jesus taught them, “The Scriptures declare, `My Temple will be called a place of prayer for all nations,’ but you have turned it into a den of thieves.””

Below is a great image for Mark 11:25 in today’s readings:

Worship Video: Today’s readings remind me of the song “In Christ Alone.” Here’s a great live version sung by Natalie Grant:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MA9WbEn-Nj8

Who alone do you trust? Click here for Christ alone!

Please join us in memorizing and meditating on a verse of Scripture this week: “If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer.” Matthew 21:22 NIV

Prayer Point: Pray that you would believe in Jesus unfailingly each and every day. Ask for things in prayer that you believe are the will of the Father.

Comments from You:  What verses or insights stand out to you in today’s readings?  Please post up by clicking on the “Comments” link below!

God bless,
Mike

p.s. Download our monthly Small Group study notes for our Chronological Bible readings at this link.

p.s. #2 – Download a schedule of our Chronological Bible readings for the year in PDF format at this link.

p.s. #3 – I would greatly appreciate it if you would pray for this Chronological Bible Blog ministry today! Please also consider partnering with us by financially supporting this ministry. Thank you!

Mark 14:3-9; Matthew 26:6-13; John 12:1-11; Mark 11:1-11; Matthew 21:1-11; Luke 19:28-40; John 12:12-19; Luke 19:41-44; John 12:20-36
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John: John 12 verse 10 stood out to me today – somehow I hadn’t really noticed this verse before – “Then the leading priests decided to kill Lazarus, too, for it was because of him that many of the people had deserted them and believed in Jesus.”   Lazarus was raised from the dead and they wanted him dead again…  sad…  The miracle had caused many to believe in Jesus as the Messiah.  Not surprising that those in that day who were against Jesus would also be against those close to Jesus.  Think there might be some correlation in this regard in our world today?  Is it possible that the closer we get to Jesus, the more the Enemy might come up against us in various ways?  It cannot defeat us with God on our side.  But it may come after us.  I’m a day late in our readings on this painting below from the year 1630 of “The Raising of Lazarus” by Rembrandt:

I like verse 19 today!   “Then the Pharisees said to each other, “We’ve lost. Look, the whole world has gone after Jesus!””  Unfortunately it was a bit of an exaggeration at that time and the 2,000 years following.  But maybe in the future?  How are you part of the Great Commission today?  An image is below for verse 15 (originally from Zechariah 9:9) – “”Don’t be afraid, people of Israel. Look, your King is coming, sitting on a donkey’s colt.”

Bible.org’s commentary on our John readings today titled “The Sweet Smell of Love and the Stench of Greed” is at this link and “The Un-Triumphal Entry” is at this link.

Luke: In Luke chapter 19 today we read about Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem – and of course, this scene of people shouting “Hosanna!” will far too soon turn toward people spitting on and mocking Jesus on the road to Golgotha as he carries his cross.  Bible.org’s commentary on our Luke chapter 19 readings today titled “The Untriumphal Entry” is at this link.

Verses 41 through 44 are so beautiful as Jesus looks upon Jerusalem and cries. It makes sense because he knows that the destruction of Jerusalem in coming in 70 A.D.  Per Tyndale’s commentary today, “In 66 A.D. the Jews revolted against Roman control.  Three years later Titus, son of Emperor Vespasian, was sent to crush the rebellion.  Roman soldiers attacked Jerusalem and broke through the northern wall but still couldn’t take the city.  Finally they laid siege to it, and in A.D. 70 they were able to enter the severely weakened city and burn it.  Six hundred thousand Jews were killed during Titus’ onslaught.”  And so, Jesus wept over Jerusalem…

Worship Video:  Today’s readings remind me of Francesca Battistelli’s song “God is Good:”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BbXjgwDHNpQ

Do you believe that God is good?  Click here for His Goodness!

Please join us in memorizing and meditating on a verse of Scripture today: “You will always have the poor among you, but you will not always have me (Jesus).” John 12:8 NIV

Prayer Point: Pray that you love Jesus above all else. Pray that you will indeed love and serve the poor in our world, but won’t love this service to the poor or anything else in this world above your love for Jesus. Pray that you will always have Jesus in eternity. And pray that the poor will too, through their saving faith in Jesus. Pray that you realize we are all truly poor if we are not in a saving relationship with Jesus.

Comments from You:  What verses or insights stand out to you in today’s readings?  Please post up by clicking on the “Comments” link below!

God bless,
Mike

p.s. Download our monthly Small Group study notes for our Chronological Bible readings at this link.

p.s. #2 – Download a schedule of our Chronological Bible readings for the year in PDF format at this link.

p.s. #3 – I would greatly appreciate it if you would pray for this Chronological Bible Blog ministry today! Please also consider partnering with us by financially supporting this ministry. Thank you!

Matthew 20:1-16; Mark 10:32-34; Matthew 20:17-19; Luke 18:31-34; Mark 10:35-45; Matthew 20:20-34; Mark 10:46-52; Luke 18:35-19:27
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Matthew: Matthew chapter 20’s parable of the vineyard workers is one that I have at times had challenges with.  I, like the workers who labored all day, would think – “that’s not fair!”   Well…. but then I came to realize that I believe this story is a parable of Grace.  God’s grace.  And you know what – God’s grace is not “fair.”  And thank God for this being so!  God’s grace is so powerful and all-encompassing and life-giving and healing and saving.  And God’s grace is offered to me.  And to you.  And to our neighbors.  And to everyone.  God’s grace is offered to people that have sinned against God.  Me.  You.  Our Neighbors.  Everyone.  God’s grace is offered to people who become Christians early in their lives and live wonderfully giving lives.  And God’s grace is offered to people who become Christians on their deathbed after living destructive lives, but who finally repent and surrender to God.  God’s grace is given freely.  Like these workers in this story, we may accept God’s grace at different points in the “day” of our life.  Though, of course, some never do ultimately accept God’s grace and there is grave risk as the day grows longer…  How about you?  What part of the “day” are you in?  Have you accepted God’s gift of grace?  Will you do so today?  While it is still “today” for you?  Below is an oil painting by Rembrandt from 1637 of “The Parable of the Laborers in the Vineyard”:

Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 20 verse 16 has always been convicting to me: “And so it is, that many who are first now will be last then; and those who are last now will be first then.” I see the wisdom in this verse… but yet, I still think that I try to be “first” in many ways in my life.  I don’t like being “last”.  I like being honored.  I like being the star.  I don’t like being the servant.  I don’t like to be the guy supporting the star.  And yet, Jesus is calling us to be last.  To serve others.  To let others go first.  How about you?  Are you trying to be “first” in your life?  Or do you see the eternal wisdom in being “last”?  Continuing this thought of serving others – below is a painting from 1856 by British painter Ford Maddox Brown of “Christ Washing St. Peter’s Feet”:

As this chapter proceeds we read about Jesus prophesying his own death and resurrection.  And then, we see Jesus prophesy about the end of James & John’s life when their mother and they ask to sit at Jesus’ right & left in heaven.  Check out verses 22 & 23: “”You don’t know what you are asking! Are you able to drink from the bitter cup of sorrow I am about to drink?” “Oh yes,” they replied, “we are able!” “You will indeed drink from it,” he told them.”  You will indeed drink from it…  James ended his life being martyred for his faith in Jesus.  And John ended his life in exile on the island of Patmos, where he wrote the book of Revelation.  And I wonder again about us today…  sometimes we hear about the “health, wealth and prosperity gospel”, and think that’s what we’ve signed up for as Christians.  But… do you think that it might be possible that at some point in your life that you might be called to drink from the bitter cup of sorrow that Jesus drank from?  If you are called to drink from that bitter cup, will you indeed drink from it?  Below is a painting by Flemish artist Pieter van Mol from the early 17th century of “Jesus with the cup”:

The last 10 words of verse 28 remind me of the Passover Lamb / Jesus parallels discussed above in this post: “For even I, the Son of Man, came here not to be served but to serve others, and to give my life as a ransom for many.”  Jesus came to give his life as a ransom for many.  Do you believe that Jesus came to give his life as a ransom for you?

Bible.org’s commentary on today’s readings in Matthew chapter 20 titled “Workers in the Vineyard” is at this link.

Worship Video:  Today’s readings reminded me of Tenth Avenue North’s great song, “Love Is Here:”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7sBuajPzBTw

Is Love here for you?  Click here for Love!

Comments from You:  What verses or insights stand out to you in today’s readings?  Please post up by clicking on the “Comments” link below!

God bless,
Mike

p.s. Download our monthly Small Group study notes for our Chronological Bible readings at this link.

p.s. #2 – Download a schedule of our Chronological Bible readings for the year in PDF format at this link.

p.s. #3 – I would greatly appreciate it if you would pray for this Chronological Bible Blog ministry today! Please also consider partnering with us by financially supporting this ministry. Thank you!

Luke 18:9-14; Mark 10:1-12; Matthew 19:1-12; Mark 10:13-16; Matthew 19:13-15; Luke 18:15-17; Mark 10:17-31; Matthew 19:16-30; Luke 18:18-30
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~ Listen to today’s Scripture with The ESV Bible ~

Matthew: In Matthew 19 we read a discussion between Jesus and the Pharisees on divorce.  The context of this discussion basically revolved around 2 Jewish schools – Shammai and Hillel – and their differing viewpoints in Jesus’ day on Deuteronomy 24 verses 1-4: “If a man marries a woman who becomes displeasing to him because he finds something indecent about her, and he writes her a certificate of divorce, gives it to her and sends her from his house, and if after she leaves his house she becomes the wife of another man, and her second husband dislikes her and writes her a certificate of divorce, gives it to her and sends her from his house, or if he dies, then her first husband, who divorced her, is not allowed to marry her again after she has been defiled. That would be detestable in the eyes of the LORD . Do not bring sin upon the land the LORD your God is giving you as an inheritance.”  From the NIV Study Bible commentary – The Shammai school held that “something indecent” from verse 1 above meant “marital unfaithfulness” – the only allowable cause for divorce.  Hillel emphasized to the preceding clause, “who becomes displeasing to him” in verse 1 above – they would allow for a man to divorce his wife for anything she did that he disliked.  Jesus in the midst of these 2 viewpoints seems to take to the side of Shammai – but, only after first pointing back to God’s original ideal for marriage.  So…  there you have the context.  What does that mean for us today? I honestly will say that I don’t know.  I do know that many folks participating in this blog are divorced.  And many are married.  And many are single.  So…  I guess I’d encourage you to read more or study more about the topic of divorce if you feel God is calling you to this.  I do believe in God’s grace in each of our lives and I believe in Jesus…  Bible.org does have a pretty long overview of Marriage, Abortion and Divorce at this link – I haven’t read it all, so I can’t say that I agree with everything at this link… but, if you’re interested in diving more into this topic you may want to read.  Also, Bible.org’s commentary on today’s readings in Matthew chapter 19 titled “Questions About Marriage and Divorce” are at this link.  No matter what happens in our life – marriage, divorce, health, sickness – we always have One whose love will never fail us:

Today in Matthew 19 we read some challenging verses about the Rich Young Man.  I have read some commentaries say that we don’t need to take Jesus’ words literally that each of us must sell all of our goods and give to the poor.  However, these words in context to this rich young man were indeed to be taken literally by him – and he knew it.  He wouldn’t do it.  Jesus called him to do this, I think, because the young man’s “stuff” was an impediment to his relationship with God.  Perhaps the young man literally valued his stuff more than God.  So – while the commentaries say that we don’t have to take Jesus’ teaching to this young man literally, I do think we should keep in mind that Jesus may ask of us something along these lines.  Jesus may ask us to pack up and become a missionary.  Or maybe he’ll ask us to leave a high powered, high paying job, to go serve the poor in our town.  Or he may ask us to not spend our money on luxury items, but to invest in micro credit loan programs in third world countries.  So – while this may seem like Jesus was asking a lot of this rich young man, keep in mind that Jesus asks much of each of us.  And really, Jesus simply asks us to follow him.  Will you follow Jesus?  No matter the cost?  No matter what you have to “give up”?  Will you follow him?  Below is a painting by Heinrich Hoffman from the late 19th century of Jesus and the Rich Young Ruler:

Bible.org’s commentary on today’s readings in Matthew chapter 19 titled “Wealth and the Kingdom of Heaven” is at this link.

Worship Video:  Today’s readings reminded me of the Chris Tomlin & Jesse Reeves song “King of Glory.” Here’s a great story behind the song and the song itself too, performed live:

Do you know our King of Glory?  Click here for Glory!

Please join us in memorizing and meditating on a verse of Scripture today: “Everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or fields for my sake will receive a hundred times as much and will inherit eternal life.” Matthew 19:29 NIV

Prayer Point: Pray that you will place your relationship with Jesus and spending eternity with Him about all else.

Comments from You:  What verses or insights stand out to you in today’s readings?  Please post up by clicking on the “Comments” link below!

God bless,
Mike

p.s. Download our monthly Small Group study notes for our Chronological Bible readings at this link.

p.s. #2 – Download a schedule of our Chronological Bible readings for the year in PDF format at this link.

p.s. #3 – I would greatly appreciate it if you would pray for this Chronological Bible Blog ministry today! Please also consider partnering with us by financially supporting this ministry. Thank you!

John 11:38-57; Luke 17:11-18:8
~ Click here to read today’s Scripture on Bible Gateway ~
~ Listen to today’s Scripture with The ESV Bible ~

Luke: Wow.  I love Jesus’ teaching in Luke chapter 17 verses 20 & 21 – “Jesus replied, “The Kingdom of God isn’t ushered in with visible signs. You won’t be able to say, `Here it is!’ or `It’s over there!’ For the Kingdom of God is among you.””  And truly, of course, literally the Kingdom of God was amongst those Jesus was speaking to with this verse – Jesus himself was there.  But, also the Kingdom of God is still amongst us today.  Jesus has risen from the dead.  He lives in the hearts of men and women.  We do not need to look for visible signs to which we can say – here it is!  Truly, the Kingdom of God can be within you.  And once the Kingdom of God is within you it is amazing to see how Jesus can transform your life and those around you through his peace, grace and power.   Is the Kingdom of God among you?

Bible.org’s commentary on our Luke chapter 17 readings titled “Putting Faith in Perspective” is at this link and commentary titled “Sign-Seeking and the Coming of the Kingdom” is at this link.

The story of the persistent widow is fantastic!  I love it…   Verse 4 may be one of the most humorous verses in the Bible – “The judge ignored her for a while, but eventually she wore him out. `I fear neither God nor man,’ he said to himself, `but this woman is driving me crazy. I’m going to see that she gets justice, because she is wearing me out with her constant requests!’”  Great stuff! Jesus teaches that persistence pays off, which I think is very good to consider with our own faith journeys.  Verse 1 is the moral of the story: “One day Jesus told his disciples a story to illustrate their need for constant prayer and to show them that they must never give up.”  Do you pray constantly?  Do you know that you must never give up?

Bible.org’s commentary on our Luke chapter 18 readings today titled “Piety, Persistence, Penitence, and Prayer” is at this link.

Worship Video:  Today’s readings in Luke 18:1 about never giving up on constant prayer reminded me of The City Harmonic’s song “Manifesto:”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WhlJbJduFaQ

Are you singing along with this song? Click here and sing forever!

Comments from You:  What verses or insights stand out to you in today’s readings?  Please post up by clicking on the “Comments” link below!

God bless,
Mike

p.s. Download our monthly Small Group study notes for our Chronological Bible readings at this link.

p.s. #2 – Download a schedule of our Chronological Bible readings for the year in PDF format at this link.

p.s. #3 – I would greatly appreciate it if you would pray for this Chronological Bible Blog ministry today! Please also consider partnering with us by financially supporting this ministry. Thank you!

Luke 14:25-17:10; John 11:1-37
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Luke: Today in Luke chapter 14 verse 27 we read – “And anyone who does not carry his cross and follow me cannot be my disciple.”  I don’t know about you, but I’m not so good at carrying “crosses.” I’m not so good at taking on perceived burdens. I’m not so good at suffering at all. I like to get my way. I often feel entitled to get a lot of good stuff in my life. . . And yet. . . Jesus says if I am to be his disciple I must carry my cross. And I must follow him. I think sometimes in our culture we want to keep up with our neighbors – be hip; be cool; be relevant; know the latest styles; wear the latest fashions; and this list can go on. Jesus tells us to carry our cross. And truly, this is the eternally hippest / coolest / most relevant decision any one of us can make – to take up our cross and follow Jesus. Nothing else matters.

Bible.org’s commentary on Luke chapter 14’s readings today titled “Table Talks” is at this link and commentary on today’s readings titled “How to Hate your Wife” is at this link.

Beautiful verses today in Luke chapter 15 verses 8 through 10 – “”Or suppose a woman has ten valuable silver coins and loses one. Won’t she light a lamp and look in every corner of the house and sweep every nook and cranny until she finds it? And when she finds it, she will call in her friends and neighbors to rejoice with her because she has found her lost coin. In the same way, there is joy in the presence of God’s angels when even one sinner repents.””  Do you believe that there was joy in the presence of God’s angels when you repented?  Or… when you will repent?  That is a beautiful thought indeed!

More beautiful verses today (22-24) as we read through the famous Prodigal Son story: “”But his father said to the servants, `Quick! Bring the finest robe in the house and put it on him. Get a ring for his finger, and sandals for his feet. And kill the calf we have been fattening in the pen. We must celebrate with a feast, for this son of mine was dead and has now returned to life. He was lost, but now he is found.’ So the party began.”

Bible.org’s commentary on our Luke chapter 15 readings today titled “Lost and Found” is at this link.

The story of the shrewd manager in Luke chapter 16 today concludes with some powerful teachings from Jesus.   Verses 8 & 9 stand out to me today – “And it is true that the citizens of this world are more shrewd than the godly are. I tell you, use your worldly resources to benefit others and make friends. In this way, your generosity stores up a reward for you in heaven.”  I like that teaching – we should use our worldly resources to benefit others.  I’ve been thinking about this a bit more lately.  And I wondered what it would be like if I went through my days consciously trying to make other people happy.  I don’t think I’ve really ever done this over a sustained period.  Maybe I’ve glimpses of using my resources to benefit others.  To make them happy.  I want to do more of this…  How about you?  Are you consciously using your resources (time, treasure & talents) to make others happy in your life each day?

Verse 10 is also a strong teaching from Jesus today – “”Unless you are faithful in small matters, you won’t be faithful in large ones. If you cheat even a little, you won’t be honest with greater responsibilities.”  I think there was a very popular book out there a while back called “Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff.”  Well, it looks to me in this verse that God sweats the small stuff.  And you and I should sweat the small stuff.  We need to be faithful in small matters in our daily lives or else indeed we will not be faithful in large matters.  Will you join me in sweating the small stuff when it comes to matters of our integrity before God?

Bible.org’s commentary on our Luke chapter 16 readings today titled “Does Christ commend the crook or “The Sting?”” is at this link.

Today in Luke chapter 16 we read about the rich man and Lazarus.  I have always found verse 31 to be such a great reflection on what it means to have having a soft heart and a strong faith – “”But Abraham said, `If they won’t listen to Moses and the prophets, they won’t listen even if someone rises from the dead.’ “” Basically, Abraham is saying that people whose hearts are hardened to faith will not even believe it if a dead man returns to them and tells them to repent.  They still won’t repent even with this miracle.  And I believe this is true.  Let us pray that our hearts are soft and open to faith and that we can share the Good News of Jesus with others in our life whose hearts may be becoming more and more hardened with each passing day…

Bible.org’s commentary on our Luke Chapter 16 readings today titled “The Rich Man and Lazarus” is at this link and commentary titled “Death: The Door to Eternity” is at this link.

Wow.  I love Luke 17 verse 10 – “In the same way, when you obey me you should say, `We are not worthy of praise. We are servants who have simply done our duty.’”  I wonder if sometimes we do good works for Jesus expecting some praise or return on our works?   This is obviously not a good motive.  We should simply be obedient to Jesus and not expect praise for our obedience – from Jesus or from others.  It is simply a blessing for us to be called to Jesus’ service.  That is more than enough.

Bible.org’s commentary on our Luke chapter 7 readings today titled “Taking Sin Seriously” is at this link.

John: Today in John chapter 11 verse 35 we read the shortest verse in the Bible – “Jesus wept.” Though this may be the shortest verse, I do not believe it is small in meaning. What does it say to you that Jesus wept? What does it mean to you that Jesus wept? I love this verse because to me it shows Jesus’ humanity (while at the same time he is divine). During his time living as a man on earth, Jesus experienced the full range of emotions that you and I experience today. Jesus was tempted. (though, unlike us, he did not give into temptation and sin ever) Jesus was joyful. Jesus was angry. Jesus loved. Jesus wept. Knowing this about Jesus, does this help you to realize that you can approach Jesus with absolutely any situation in your life that you might be struggling with? Do you believe that Jesus will understand you if you are weeping? Do you believe that Jesus will rejoice with you when you are rejoicing? I do. “Jesus wept” says so much to me about who Jesus was, is, and forever will be. Jesus wept.

Bible.org’s commentary on today’s John chapter 11 readings titled “Dealing with Death” is at this link.

Worship Video:: Today’s readings in Luke about the Prodigal Son reminds me of the Jeremy Camp song “Take You Back:”

Have you run away from God? Click here to be taken back into His arms!

Please join us in memorizing and meditating on a verse of Scripture today: “I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent.” Luke 15:7 NIV

Prayer Point: Pray that you have repented of your sins. Pray that you are evangelizing others you know to repent of their sins and turn to Jesus. Pray that the angels in heaven will rejoice over the lost you know being Found.

Comments from You:  What verses or insights stand out to you in today’s readings?  Please post up by clicking on the “Comments” link below!

God bless,
Mike

p.s. Download our monthly Small Group study notes for our Chronological Bible readings at this link.

p.s. #2 – Download a schedule of our Chronological Bible readings for the year in PDF format at this link.

p.s. #3 – I would greatly appreciate it if you would pray for this Chronological Bible Blog ministry today! Please also consider partnering with us by financially supporting this ministry. Thank you!

John 10:1-42; Luke 13:22-14:24
~ Click here to read today’s Scripture on Bible Gateway ~
~ Listen to today’s Scripture with The ESV Bible ~

John: I love Jesus’ teachings today in John 10 verses 9 & 10 – “Yes, I am the gate. Those who come in through me will be saved. Wherever they go, they will find green pastures. The thief’s purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give life in all its fullness.”   What a great analogy – Jesus is the gateway to salvation.  Life in relationship with Jesus will be full of green pastures – this reminds me of Psalm 23 verse 2!   And then Jesus tells us that his purpose is to give us life in all its fullness.  I think all too often we look for fullness of life in all the wrong places…  when all we have to do is walk through the gate.  Have you walked through the gate?

Jesus calling himself the Good Shepherd is so very beautiful and fitting in verses 14 &15 – “I am the good shepherd; I know my own sheep, and they know me, just as my Father knows me and I know the Father. And I lay down my life for the sheep.”   After we walk through the gate of faith to fullness of life with Jesus, he will be our Good Shepherd forever.  He is a shepherd that knows us – and we know him.  He will protect us with his rod and staff – again, a little Psalm 23 verse 4.  🙂  And more than anything else, this Good Shepherd has laid down his life for us.   Do you consider Jesus to be your Good Shepherd?

Bible.org’s commentary on our John 10 readings today titled “The Good Shepherd” is at this link.

John chapter 10 verse 30 is a powerful teaching from Jesus! “The Father and I are one.”  Many churches celebrate Pentecost, when the Holy Spirit descended upon the Apostles in the Upper Room after Jesus’ ascension into heaven.  Thus, rounding out the Trinity. (Bible.org has a great overview of the Trinity at this link.)  The Father.  The Son.  And the Holy Spirit.  Do you believe Jesus when he says, “”The Father and I are one” ?  Jesus smartly quotes from Psalm 82 verse 6 in verses 34-36 today: “Jesus replied, “It is written in your own law that God said to certain leaders of the people, `I say, you are gods!’ And you know that the Scriptures cannot be altered. So if those people, who received God’s message, were called `gods,’ why do you call it blasphemy when the Holy One who was sent into the world by the Father says, `I am the Son of God’?”

Bible.org’s commentary on today’s readings in John titled “The Sovereign Shepherd” is at this link.

Luke: Bible.org’s wonderful commentary on Luke chapter 13’s readings today titled “Striving to Enter the Narrow Door” is at this link.

Wow.  Jesus’ teachings in Luke chapter 14 verses 12 through 14 are so powerful – “”When you put on a luncheon or a dinner,” he said, “don’t invite your friends, brothers, relatives, and rich neighbors. For they will repay you by inviting you back. Instead, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, and the blind. Then at the resurrection of the godly, God will reward you for inviting those who could not repay you.””  How often do we do something for others – in hopes of getting something back in return?  Maybe it’s simply praise?  Or maybe it’s indeed an invite to something else in the future?  Kind of the whole idea of “I’ll scratch your back if you’ll scratch mine.”  Jesus tells us there is another way – care for others that cannot repay you.  Because God will repay you.  And who would you rather receive repayment from for your good deeds – humans or God?  Do you think that caring for the poor is giving to God?  Will you give to God?

Worship Video: Today’s readings in John remind me Rebecca St. James’ beautiful song “You are Loved:”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iq0gtxumSrU

Do you know that you are loved? Click here for LOVE!

Please join us in memorizing and meditating on a verse of Scripture today: “I (Jesus) am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.” John 10:11 NIV

Prayer Point: Pray in thanksgiving to Jesus for laying down his life for you, if you have given your life over in faith to Him. Thank him for being your Good Shepherd! Pray for the lost “sheep” that you know, that they would come to know Jesus as their Good Shepherd.

Comments from You:  What verses or insights stand out to you in today’s readings?  Please post up by clicking on the “Comments” link below!

God bless,
Mike

p.s. Download our monthly Small Group study notes for our Chronological Bible readings at this link.

p.s. #2 – Download a schedule of our Chronological Bible readings for the year in PDF format at this link.

p.s. #3 – I would greatly appreciate it if you would pray for this Chronological Bible Blog ministry today! Please also consider partnering with us by financially supporting this ministry. Thank you!

Luke 12:35-13:21; John 9:1-41
~ Click here to read today’s Scripture on Bible Gateway ~
~ Listen to today’s Scripture with The ESV Bible ~

Luke: In Luke chapter 12 verse 40, Jesus is speaking about his second coming at the end of the age – “You must be ready all the time, for the Son of Man will come when least expected.”  But, this verse also always seems to speak to me about the end of my life here on earth as well.  One of 2 things will happen during our life that will bring our earthly life as we know it to an end – 1.  Jesus’ second coming (which no one knows the day or hour) or 2. we will die.  I know it’s not something we all want to think about… but someday our earthly bodies will die.  And I guess when I read verse 40 above, it makes me realize that not only do we not know the day or hour when Jesus’ 2nd coming will be.  We also don’t know the day or the hour of the end of our life either.  So…  this verse then speaks to me clearly – you must be ready all the time!  And, I don’t view this as something to be anxious over.  But, I do think it’s serious for us to consider.  I don’t know about you – but sometimes I’m a procrastinator.  And when it comes to our faith in Jesus, there is no luxury of procrastination.  We must have faith in Jesus, be living for Jesus, and really, be willing to die for Jesus – today.  Now.  Not tomorrow.  Today.   Are you ready all the time?

Chapter 12 verse 48 is also a powerful teaching from Jesus for us today – “But people who are not aware that they are doing wrong will be punished only lightly. Much is required from those to whom much is given, and much more is required from those to whom much more is given.”  This is convicting…  think about it.  The more we begin to know about Jesus and God and the Bible, the more we essentially have been “given.”  And when this holy knowledge has been given to us – much is required.  Much is expected.  Maybe in our past we were not aware of our sins.  Maybe we were not aware of sin at all really.  Today, if we have been blessed with the knowledge of living by Jesus’ teachings, we should not be acting as we did in the past when we did not know any better.  Have you been given much?  Are you living up to what is required of you?

Bible.org’s commentary on our Luke chapter 12 readings today titled “The Way to Wait” is at this link and commentary titled “The Consequences of Christ’s Coming” is at this link.

I love Jesus’ teachings in Luke chapter 13 verses 18 & 19: “Then Jesus said, “What is the Kingdom of God like? How can I illustrate it? It is like a tiny mustard seed planted in a garden; it grows and becomes a tree, and the birds come and find shelter among its branches.”  I think if we can have faith in the seed that Jesus plants in our hearts – the Gospel – we will see an amazing plant grow that will ultimately bless others.  From the tiniest beginnings, with patience and faith, can come the largest of plants.  Will you let Jesus plant a mustard seed in your heart?  And will you be patient and allow the seed time & space to grow?  And will you water and care for the seed of the Gospel planted in your heart so that one day it will be a beautiful tree of life for yourself and others you come in contact with?

Bible.org’s commentary on Luke chapter 13’s readings today titled “A Problem of Perspective” is at this link.

John: Jesus’ teaching in John chapter 9 verse 3 is powerful – “It was not because of his sins or his parents’ sins,” Jesus answered. “He was born blind so the power of God could be seen in him.”  Wow.  He was born blind so that God’s power could be seen in him.  I wonder about this in our lives today.  When we have challenges or struggles, is it possible that they are happening so that the power of God can been seen?  I know this can be tough to fathom when you are in the midst of a challenge or struggle – or, if you are blind for example, like this man in John 9.  But…  no matter what life throws our way, do you think that God’s power can be seen in any circumstance?  Below is Cretan-born painter El Greco’s “Christ Healing the Blind Man” from the year 1567:

Verse 27 is great when the healed man says – “”Look!” the man exclaimed. “I told you once. Didn’t you listen? Why do you want to hear it again? Do you want to become his disciples, too?””   Hmmm…. Verses 39 through 40 are a dialogue that each one of us should reflect upon – “Then Jesus told him, “I have come to judge the world. I have come to give sight to the blind and to show those who think they see that they are blind.”  The Pharisees who were standing there heard him and asked, “Are you saying we are blind?” “If you were blind, you wouldn’t be guilty,” Jesus replied. “But you remain guilty because you claim you can see.”  How are we behaving today?  Are we allowing Jesus to give us spiritual sight?  Or do we think we can see well enough spiritually without Jesus?  Without Jesus, can we see or are we blind…?  Will we allow Jesus to heal us of our spiritual blindness right now?

Bible.org’s commentary on today’s John readings titled “The Light of the World” is at this link.

Worship Video:  Today’s readings in Luke chapter 12 reminded me of the MercyMe song “All of Creation:”

Are you singing with all of creation? Click here and sing!

Please join us in memorizing and meditating on two verses of Scripture today: “But understand this: If the owner of the house had known at what hour the thief was coming, he would not have let his house be broken into. You also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him.”” Luke 12:39-40 NIV

Prayer Point: Pray that you are ready for Jesus to return right this very moment. Pray that you will always stay ready for Jesus’ return, and that you will not quench the Spirit by sinning. Pray earnestly, “Come Lord, Jesus, quickly come!”

Comments from You:  What verses or insights stand out to you in today’s readings?  Please post up by clicking on the “Comments” link below!

God bless,
Mike

p.s. Download our monthly Small Group study notes for our Chronological Bible readings at this link.

p.s. #2 – Download a schedule of our Chronological Bible readings for the year in PDF format at this link.

p.s. #3 – I would greatly appreciate it if you would pray for this Chronological Bible Blog ministry today! Please also consider partnering with us by financially supporting this ministry. Thank you!

Luke 11:14-12:34
~ Click here to read today’s Scripture on Bible Gateway ~
~ Listen to today’s Scripture with The ESV Bible ~

Luke: Jesus’ teaching in Luke chapter 11 verse 23 is so important for us to understand – “Anyone who isn’t helping me opposes me, and anyone who isn’t working with me is actually working against me.”   How does this verse speak to you?  For me it convicts me.  Yeah, maybe for some of my time I am helping Jesus and the Kingdom of God, but I think there is a lot of time where I am not working with Jesus.  I am maybe indulging in some seemingly harmless trivial pursuits or material pleasures – but they aren’t really working with Jesus.  And am I then, at those times, actually working against Jesus?  I don’t know.  I want to pray on this more.  I do know that we are called to rest & relaxation in our lives – a time of Sabbath rest each week.  We don’t have to be frantically seeking to “do” & serve Jesus 24 x 7.  But, I do think it’s possible that we can live our lives more “intentionally” – meaning, examine the intent of why we do what we do.  And ultimately, is what we are doing with our time helping and working with Jesus?  Or is it not?  I think being intentional with our time and how we are spending our lives is so important…  because time flies as we all know.

Jesus’ teaching in Luke chapter 11 verse 36 is powerful for each of us to consider! “If you are filled with light, with no dark corners, then your whole life will be radiant, as though a floodlight is shining on you.”  That second little clause there I think is key – with no dark corners.  I’ll admit that I have traveled through life with some dark corners.  And it is no way to go.  The dark corners do affect the Light really shining in you and through you – and the dark corners I believe can affect your relationship with God.  I pray that if you know you have a dark corner in your life, confess it to God and Jesus.  Pray for forgiveness and repent!  God will fill you with light – a light that will penetrate and remove those dark corners in your life.  But, you’ve gotta confess them & repent of them with God…   You know it’s worth it.  To live a radiant life, as though a floodlight is shining on you is the only way to live!

Bible.org’s commentary on Luke chapter 11’s readings today titled “Evidence that Produced Various Verdicts” is at this link.

Wow… Jesus goes after the Pharisees in Luke chapter 11 today…  Verses 39 through 41 are powerful: “Then the Lord said to him, “You Pharisees are so careful to clean the outside of the cup and the dish, but inside you are still filthy–full of greed and wickedness! Fools! Didn’t God make the inside as well as the outside? So give to the needy what you greedily possess, and you will be clean all over.”  I think these verses are important for us to meditate upon as well today.  Are we clean inside?  Or are we putting on a show and just cleaning up our external appearances for others?  As we saw in Jesus’ teachings in the Sermon on the Mount in Matthew – God is very interested in the condition of our hearts.  Our insides.  Are our insides clean?  Bob Deffinbaugh with Bible.org’s great commentary on our Luke chapter 11 readings today titled “Fundamentalists in Formaldehyde” is at this link.

Jesus’ teachings in Luke chapter 12 verses 2 through 3 are also important for us to reflect upon in our lives today – “The time is coming when everything will be revealed; all that is secret will be made public. Whatever you have said in the dark will be heard in the light, and what you have whispered behind closed doors will be shouted from the housetops for all to hear!”  I once heard a pastor say during a sermon – “nobody sins in a vacuum.  Meaning, nobody’s sin does not affect others.  When we sin – even when we are “alone” – it affects our community in ways we do not fully realize.”   I think this is so true.  When we sin – even what we have done or said in the “dark” – we hurt not only ourselves, but others.  And God the Father, Son & Holy Spirit, who is pure Light, have heard and know what we do in the dark.  We cannot hide it from them.  Better to confess it to God, repent, and be cleansed by the Light.  Then, go, and sin no more.  Plus – it’s a darn scary thought to think that what we do in the dark might be shouted from the housetops for all to hear!  🙂  Live your life such that no matter what you do or what you say, you wouldn’t be embarrassed to read about it in tomorrow’s papers… 

Bible.org’s commentary on Luke chapter 12 readings today titled “The Hazard of Hypocrisy for Heralds of the Gospel” is at this link.

Today in Luke 12:25-26 we read: “Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life? Since you cannot do this very little thing, why do you worry about the rest?” In regards to these verses I once heard someone say that worry is a form of “low-grade atheism.” Which I think is brilliant! When we worry, we are in a sense doubting God. Doubting that God has the situation in control, no matter how dire it may seem. Do you worry much these days? Do you see how worry is in a sense a form of “low-grade atheism”?

Bible.org’s commentary on Luke chapter 12’s readings today titled “Greed: The Affliction of the Affluent” is at this link and commentary titled “A Disciple’s Perspective on Possessions” is at this link.  Also, below is a brief commentary from Bible.org on the “Unpardonable Sin” from Luke 12:10, which can be found near the bottom of this link:

“At first appearance this text seems to be warning the disciple that he might lose his salvation by denying the Savior, by his hypocrisy. This is not the case, however. There are several reasons why this cannot be the case.

(1) Man’s salvation is not based upon his works, or his faithfulness, but on Christ’s shed blood and His faithfulness.

(2) The Scriptures consistently teach that man did not choose God but that He has chosen man, and that the one who is saved is eternally secure.

(3) In our text, there is a definite change from the second person (“you”) to the third person (“whoever,” “him,” “everyone”).

(4) The unpardonable sin, referred to in verse 10, is elsewhere clearly a sin which an unbeliever commits, which terminates any further opportunity to be saved.”

Worship Video:  Luke 12:2-3 reminds me of The Museum song “My Help Comes from the Lord:”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fJ1CCaouSF0

Where does your help come from? Click here for help from the Lord!

Please join us in memorizing and meditating on two verses of Scripture today: “”I tell you, my friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body and after that can do no more. But I will show you whom you should fear: Fear him who, after the killing of the body, has power to throw you into hell. Yes, I tell you, fear him.” Luke 12:4-5 NIV

Prayer Point: Pray that you will not be afraid of mere mortal men. Pray that you will only fear the Lord. Pray that you will learn that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of all wisdom and righteousness.

Comments from You:  What verses or insights stand out to you in today’s readings?  Please post up by clicking on the “Comments” link below!

God bless,
Mike

p.s. Download our monthly Small Group study notes for our Chronological Bible readings at this link.

p.s. #2 – Download a schedule of our Chronological Bible readings for the year in PDF format at this link.

p.s. #3 – I would greatly appreciate it if you would pray for this Chronological Bible Blog ministry today! Please also consider partnering with us by financially supporting this ministry. Thank you!