God's Word Today: April 2023

Sunday, April 30, 2023

Luke 13:18-21 Part 2 of 2

Then Jesus said, "What is the Kingdom of God like? How can I illustrate it? It is like a tiny mustard seed that a man planted in a garden; it grows and becomes a tree, and the birds make nests in its branches." He also asked, "What else is the Kingdom of God like? It is like the yeast a woman used in making bread. Even though she put only a little yeast in three measures of flour, it permeated every part of the dough."

"It is like a tiny mustard seed that a man planted in a garden;"

Matthew 13:31 Here is another illustration Jesus used: "The Kingdom of Heaven is like a mustard seed planted in a field."

Mark 4:31 "It is like a mustard seed planted in the ground. It is the smallest of all seeds, ..."

"it grows and becomes a tree, and the birds make nests in its branches."

Matthew 13:32 "It is the smallest of all seeds, but it becomes the largest of garden plants; it grows into a tree, and birds come and make nests in its branches."

Mark 4:32 "... but it becomes the largest of all garden plants; it grows long branches, and birds can make nests in its shade."

He also asked, "What else is the Kingdom of God like? It is like the yeast a woman used in making bread. Even though she put only a little yeast in three measures of flour, it permeated every part of the dough."

Matthew 13:33 Jesus also used this illustration: "The Kingdom of Heaven is like the yeast a woman used in making bread. Even though she put only a little yeast in three measures of flour (about 60 pounds or 27 kilograms), it permeated every part of the dough."

Genesis18:6 So Abraham ran back to the tent and said to Sarah, "Hurry! Get three large measures of your best flour, knead it into dough, and bake some bread." (see verses 1-15)

Galatians 5:7-10 You were running the race so well. Who has held you back from following the truth? It certainly isn't God, for he is the one who called you to freedom. This false teaching is like a little yeast that spreads through the whole batch of dough! I am trusting the Lord to keep you from believing false teachings. God will judge that person, whoever he is, who has been confusing you. (see verses 1-26)

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Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved. Limited to 15 verses per post.

Saturday, April 29, 2023

Luke 13:18-21 Part 1 of 2

Then Jesus said, "What is the Kingdom of God like? How can I illustrate it?"

Matthew 13:24 Here is another story Jesus told: "The Kingdom of Heaven is like a farmer who planted good seed in his field." (see verses 24-30)

Matthew 13:44 "The Kingdom of Heaven is like a treasure that a man discovered hidden in a field. In his excitement, he hid it again and sold everything he owned to get enough money to buy the field."

Matthew 13:45-46 "Again, the Kingdom of Heaven is like a merchant on the lookout for choice pearls. When he discovered a pearl of great value, he sold everything he owned and bought it!"

Matthew 13:47 "Again the Kingdom of heaven is like a fishing net that was thrown into the water and caught fish of every kind." (see verses 47-52)

Matthew 18:23 "Therefore, the Kingdom of Heaven can be compared to a king who decided to bring his accounts up to date with servants who had borrowed money from him." (see verses 23-35)

Matthew 20:1 "For the Kingdom of Heaven is like the landowner who went out early one morning to hire workers for his vineyard." (see verses 1-16)

Matthew 22:2 "The Kingdom of Heaven can be illustrated by the story of a king who prepared a great wedding feast for his son." (see verses 1-14)

Matthew 25:1 "Then the Kingdom of Heaven will be like ten bridesmaids who took their lamps and went to meet the bridegroom." (see verses 1-13)

Mark 4:26 "Then the Kingdom of God is like a farmer who scatters seed on the ground." (see verses 26-29)

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Friday, April 28, 2023

Luke 11:14-17 Part 2 of 2

But the leader in charge of the synagogue was indignant that Jesus had healed her on the Sabbath day. "There are six days of the week for working," he said to the crowd. "Come on those days to be healed, not on the Sabbath." But the Lord replied, "You hypocrites! Each of you works on the Sabbath day! Don't you untie your ox or your donkey from its stall on the Sabbath and lead it out for water? This dear woman, a daughter of Abraham, has been held in bondage by Satan for eighteen years. Isn't it right that she be released, even on the Sabbath?" This shamed his enemies, but all the people rejoiced at the wonderful things he did.

But the Lord replied, "You hypocrites! Each of you works on the Sabbath day! Don't you untie your ox or your donkey from its stall on the Sabbath and lead it out for water?"

Luke 14:5 Then he turned to them and said, "Which one of you doesn't work on the Sabbath? If your son or your cow falls into a pit, don't you rush to get him out?" (see verses 1-6)

Matthew 12:11-12 And he answered, "If you had a sheep that fell into a well on the Sabbath, wouldn't you work to pull it out? Of course you would. And how much more valuable is a person than a sheep! Yes, the law permits a person to do good on the Sabbath." (see verses 9-14)

John 7:23 "For if the correct time for circumcising your son falls on the Sabbath, you go ahead and do it so as not to break the law of Moses. So why should you be angry with me for healing a man on the Sabbath?" (see verses 19-24)

"This dear woman, a daughter of Abraham,"

Luke 3:8 "Prove by the way you live that you have repented of your sins and turned to God. Don't just say to each other, 'We're safe, for we are descendants of Abraham.' That means nothing, for I tell you, God can create children of Abraham from these very stones." (See verses 7-14)

Galatians 3:6-7 In the same way, "Abraham believed God, and God counted him as righteous because of his faith." (Genesis 15:6) The real children of Abraham, then, are those who put their faith in God.

"has been held in bondage by Satan for eighteen years. Isn't it right that she be released, even on the Sabbath?"

Luke 11:14 One day Jesus cast out a demon from a man who couldn't speak, and when the demon was gone, the man began to speak.

Luke 22:3 Then Satan entered into Judas Iscariot, who was one of the twelve disciples, ... (see verses 1-6)

This shamed his enemies, but all the people rejoiced at the wonderful things he did.

1 Peter 3:16 But do this in a gentle and respectful way. Keep your conscience clear. Then if people speak against you, they will be ashamed when they see what a good life you live because you belong to Christ. (see verses 13-17)

Luke 18:43 Instantly the man could see, and he followed Jesus, praising God. And all who saw it praised God, too. (see verses 35-43)

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Thursday, April 27, 2023

Luke 13:14-17 Part 1 of 2

But the leader in charge of the synagogue was indignant that Jesus had healed her on the Sabbath day.

Matthew 12:2 But some Pharisees saw them do it (see verse 1) and protested, "Look, your disciples are breaking the law by harvesting grain on the Sabbath."

Exodus 23:20 "You have six days each week for your ordinary work, but on the seventh day you must stop working. This gives your ox and your donkey a chance to rest. It also allows your slaves and the foreigners living among you to be refreshed."

Luke 14:3-4 Jesus asked the Pharisees and experts in religious law, "Is it permitted in the law to heal people on the Sabbath day, or not?" When they refused to answer, Jesus touched the sick man and healed him and sent him away. (see verses 1-2)

John 5:9-10 Instantly the man was healed! He rolled up his sleeping mat and began walking! But this miracle happened on the Sabbath, so the Jewish leaders objected. They said to the man who was cured, "You can't work on the Sabbath! The law doesn't allow you to carry that sleeping mat!" (see verses 1-15)

John 9:16 Some of the Pharisees said, "This man Jesus is not from God, for he is working on the Sabbath." Others said, "But how could an ordinary sinner do such miraculous signs?" So there was a deep division of opinion among them.

"There are six days of the week for working," he said to the crowd. "Come on those days to be healed, not on the Sabbath."

Exodus 20:8-11 "Remember to observe the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. You have six days each week for your ordinary work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath day of rest dedicated to the LORD your God. On that day no one in your household may do any work. This includes you, your sons and daughters, your male and female servants, your livestock and any foreigners living among you. For in six days the LORD made the heavens, the earth, the sea, and everything in them; but on the seventh day he rested. That is why the LORD blessed the Sabbath day and set it apart as holy."

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Wednesday, April 26, 2023

Luke 13:10-13 Part 2 of 2

One Sabbath day as Jesus was teaching in a synagogue, he saw a woman who had been crippled by an evil spirit. She had been bent double for eighteen years and was unable to stand up straight. When Jesus saw her, he called her over and said, "Dear woman, you are healed of your sickness!" Then he touched her, and instantly she could stand straight. How she praised God!

When Jesus saw her, he called her over and said, "Dear woman, you are healed of your sickness!" Then he touched her, and instantly she could stand straight.

Mark 5:22-23 Then a leader of the local synagogue, whose name was Jairus, arrived. When he saw Jesus, he fell at his feet, pleading fervently with him. "My little daughter is dying," he said. "Please come and lay your hands on her; heal her so she can live." (see verses 24-43)

Mark 6:5 And because of their unbelief, he couldn't do any miracles among them except to place his hands on a few sick people and heal them. (see verses 1-6)

Mark 7:32 A deaf man with a speech impediment was brought to him, and the people begged Jesus to lay his hands on the man to heal him. (see verses 31-37)

Mark 8:23 Jesus took the blind man by the hand and led him out of the village. Then, spitting on the man's eyes, he laid his hands on him and asked, "Can you see anything now?" (see verses 22-26)

Luke 4:40 As the sun went down that evening, people throughout the village brought sick family members to Jesus. No matter what their diseases were, the touch of his hand healed every one. (see verses 38-41)

How she praised God!

Luke 5:25-26 And immediately, as everyone watched, the man jumped up, picked up his mat, and went home praising God. Everyone was gripped with great wonder and awe, and they praised God, exclaiming, "We have seen amazing things today!" (see verses 17-26)

Luke 7:16 Great fear swept the crowd, and they praised God, saying, "A mighty prophet has risen among us," and "God has visited his people today." (see verses 11-17)

Luke 18:42-43 And Jesus said, "All right, receive your sight! Your faith has healed you." Instantly the man could see, and he followed Jesus, praising God. And all who saw it praised God, too. (see verses 35-43)

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Tuesday, April 25, 2023

Luke 13:10-13 Part 1 of 2

One Sabbath day as Jesus was teaching in a synagogue,

Matthew 4:23 Jesus traveled throughout the region of Galilee, teaching in the synagogues and announcing the Good News about the Kingdom. And he healed every kind of disease and illness. (see also Matthew 9:35)

Matthew 13:54 He returned to Nazareth, his hometown. When he taught there in the synagogue, everyone was amazed and said, "Where does he get this wisdom and power to do miracles?" (see also Mark 6:2)

Mark 1:21 Jesus and his companions went to the town of Capernaum. When the Sabbath day came, he went into the synagogue and began to teach.

Luke 4:15 He taught regularly in their synagogues and was praised by everyone.

John 6:59 He said these things while he was teaching in the synagogue in Capernaum. (see verses 22-58)

John 18:20 Jesus replied, "Everyone knows what I teach. I have preached regularly in the synagogues and the Temple, where the people gather. I have not spoken in secret."

he saw a woman who had been crippled by an evil spirit. She had been bent double for eighteen years and was unable to stand up straight.

Luke 4:33 Once when he was in the synagogue, a man possessed by a demon--an evil spirit--began shouting at Jesus, ... (see verses 33-36)

Luke 8:27 As Jesus was climbing out of the boat, a man who was possessed by demons came out to meet him. For a long time he had been homeless and naked, living in a cemetery outside the town. (see verses 26-37)

Acts 16:16 One day as we were going down to the place of prayer, we met a demon-possessed slave girl. She was a fortune-teller who earned a lot of money for her masters. (see verses 16-40)

Revelation 16:13-14 And I saw three evil spirits that looked like frogs leap from the mouths of the dragon, the beast and the false prophet. They are demonic spirits who work miracles and go out to all the rulers of the world to gather them for battle against the Lord on that great judgment day of God the Almighty.

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Monday, April 24, 2023

Luke 13:6-9

Then Jesus told this story: "A man planted a fig tree in his garden and came again and again to see if there was any fruit on it, but he was always disappointed. Finally, he said to his gardener, 'I've waited three years, and there hasn't been a single fig! Cut it down. It's just taking up space in the garden.' The gardener answered, 'Sir, give it one more chance. Leave it another year, and I'll give it special attention and plenty of fertilizer. If we get figs next year, fine. If not, then you can cut it down.' "

"A man planted a fig tree in his garden and came again and again to see if there was any fruit on it, but he was always disappointed."

Isaiah 5:1-2 Now I will sing for the one I love a song about his vineyard: My beloved had a vineyard on a rich and fertile hill. He plowed the land, cleared its stones, and planted it with the best vines. In the middle he built a watchtower and carved a winepress in the nearby rocks. Then he waited for a harvest of sweet grapes, but the grapes that grew were bitter.

Jeremiah 8:13 " 'I will surely consume them. There will be no more harvests of figs and grapes. Their fruit trees will all die. Whatever I gave them will soon be gone. I, the LORD, have spoken!' " (see verses 4-17)

Matthew 21:18-19 In the morning, as Jesus was returning to Jerusalem, he was hungry, and he noticed a fig tree beside the road. He went over to see if there were any figs, but there were only leaves. Then he said to it, "May you never bear fruit again!" And immediately the fig tree withered up. (see also Mark 11:13-14)

"Finally, he said to his gardener, 'I've waited three years, and there hasn't been a single fig! Cut it down. It's just taking up space in the garden.' "

Matthew 3:10 "Even now the ax of God's judgment is poised, ready to sever the roots of the trees. Yes, every tree that does not produce good fruit will be chopped down and thrown into the fire." (see verses 7-12; also see Luke 3:7-9)

Matthew 7:19 "So every tree that does not produce good fruit is chopped down and thrown into the fire." (see verses 15-20)

John 15:1-2 "I am the true grapevine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch of mine that doesn't produce fruit, and he prunes the branches that do bear fruit so they will produce even more." (see verses 1-8)

"The gardener answered, 'Sir, give it one more chance. Leave it another year, and I'll give it special attention and plenty of fertilizer. If we get figs next year, fine. If not, then you can cut it down.' "

Luke 13:34-35 "O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets and stones God's messengers! How often I have wanted to gather your children together as a hen protects her chicks beneath her wings, but you wouldn't let me. And now, look, your house is abandoned. And you will never see me again until you say, 'Blessings on the one who comes in the name of the LORD!' (Psalm 118:26)" (see also Luke 19:41-44)

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Sunday, April 23, 2023

Luke 13:1-5 Part 2 of 2

About this time Jesus was informed that Pilate had murdered some people from Galilee as they were offering sacrifices at the Temple. "Do you think those Galileans were worse sinners than all the other people from Galilee?" Jesus asked. "Is that why they suffered? Not at all! And you will perish, too, unless you repent of your sins and turn to God. And what about the eighteen people who died when the tower in Siloam fell on them? Were they the worst sinners in Jerusalem? No, and I tell you again that unless you repent, you will perish, too."

"Do you think those Galileans were worse sinners than all the other people from Galilee?" Jesus asked. "Is that why they suffered?"

Job 4:7-9 (Eliphaz speaking) "Stop and think! Do the innocent die? When have the upright been destroyed? My experience shows that those who plant trouble and cultivate evil will harvest the same. A breath from God destroys them. They vanish in a blast of his anger."

John 9:2-3 "Rabbi," his disciples asked him, "why was this man born blind? Was it because of his own sins or his parents' sins?" "It was not because of his sins or his parents' sins," Jesus answered. "This happened so the power of God could be seen in him."

Acts 28:4 The people of the island saw it (the snake) hanging from his hand and said to each other, "A murderer, no doubt! Though he escaped the sea, justice will not permit him to live." (see verses 1-10)

"Not at all! And you will perish, too, unless you repent of your sins and turn to God."

Luke 5:31-32 Jesus answered them, "Healthy people don't need a doctor--sick people do. I have come to call not those who think they are righteous, but those who know they are sinners and need to repent." (see verses 27-32)

"And what about the eighteen people who died when the tower in Siloam fell on them? Were they the worst sinners in Jerusalem? No, and I tell you again that unless you repent, you will perish, too."

Matthew 3:2 "Repent of your sins and turn to God, for the Kingdom of Heaven is near."

Acts 2:38 Peter replied, "Each of you must repent of your sins and turn to God, and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. Then you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit." (see verses 14-41)

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Saturday, April 22, 2023

Luke 13:1-5 Part 1 of 2

About this time Jesus was informed that Pilate had murdered some people from Galilee as they were offering sacrifices at the Temple.

Luke 3:1 It was now the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius, the Roman emperor. Pontius Pilate was governor over Judea; Herod Antipas was ruler over Galilee; his brother Philip was ruler over Iturea and Traconitis; Lysanias was ruler over Abilene.

Matthew 20:18-19 "Listen," he said, "we're going up to Jerusalem, where the Son of Man will be betrayed to the leading priests and the teachers of religious law. They will sentence him to die. Then they will hand him over to the Romans to be mocked, flogged with a whip, and crucified. But on the third day he will be raised from the dead."

Mark 15:1 Very early in the morning the leading priests, the elders, and the teachers of religious law--the entire high council (the Sanhedrin)--met to discuss their next step. They bound Jesus, led him away, and took him to Pilate, the Roman governor. (see also Matthew 27:1-2)

Acts 3:13 "For it is the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob--the God of all our ancestors--who has brought glory to his servant Jesus by doing this. (see verses 1-11) This is the same Jesus whom you handed over and rejected before Pilate, despite Pilate's decision to release him."

1 Timothy 6:13-14 And I charge you before God, who gives life to all, and before Christ Jesus, who gave a good testimony before Pontius Pilate, that you obey this command (see verses 11-12) without wavering. Then no one can find fault with you from now until our Lord Jesus Christ comes again.

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Friday, April 21, 2023

Luke 12:57-59 Part 2 of 2

"Why can't you decide for yourselves what is right? When you are on your way to court with your accuser, try to settle the matter before you get there. Otherwise, your accuser may drag you before the judge, who will hand you over to an officer, who will throw you into prison. And if that happens, you won't be free again until you have paid the very last penny."

"When you are on your way to court with your accuser, try to settle the matter before you get there. Otherwise, your accuser may drag you before the judge, who will hand you over to an officer, who will throw you into prison."

Matthew 5:25 "When you are on the way to court with your adversary, settle your differences quickly. Otherwise, your accuser may hand you over to the judge, who will hand you over to an officer, and you will be thrown into prison."

Proverbs 7b-8 Just because you've seen something, don't be in a hurry to go to court. For what will you do in the end if your neighbor deals you a shameful defeat?

1 Corinthians 6:1 When one of you has a dispute with another believer, how dare you file a lawsuit and ask a secular court to decide the matter instead of taking it to other believers?

1 Corinthians 6:5 I'm saying this to shame you. Isn't there anyone in all the church who is wise enough to decide these issues?

"And if that happens, you won't be free again until you have paid the very last penny."

Matthew 5:26 "And if that happens, you surely won't be free again until your have paid the last penny."

Proverbs 6:30-31 Excuses might be found for a thief who steals because he is starving. But if he is caught, he must pay back seven times what he stole, even if he has to sell everything in his house.

Mark 12:41-44 Jesus sat down near the collection box in the Temple and watched as the crowds dropped in their money. Many rich people put in large amounts. Then a poor widow came and dropped in two small coins. Jesus called his disciples to him and said, "I tell you the truth, this poor widow has given more than all the others who are making contributions. For they gave a tiny part of their surplus, but she, poor as she is, has given everything she had to live on."

Thursday, April 20, 2023

Luke 12:57-59 Part 1 of 2

"Why can't you decide for yourselves what is right?"

Luke 21:29-30 Then he gave them this illustration: "Notice the fig tree, or any other tree. When the leaves come out, you know without being told that summer is near."

John 7:24 "Look beneath the surface so you can judge correctly." (see verses 21-24)

1 Kings 3:9 "Give me (Solomon) an understanding heart so that I can govern your people well and know the difference between right and wrong. For who by himself is able to govern this great people of yours?" (see verses 5-15)

Proverbs 1:3 Their purpose (the proverbs of Solomon) is to teach people to live disciplined and successful lives, to help them to do what is right, just, and fair.

Proverbs 28:5 Evil people don't understand justice, but those who follow the LORD understand completely.

Genesis 4:3-7 When it was time for the harvest, Cain presented some of his crops as a gift to the LORD. Abel also brought a gift--the best of his firstborn lambs from his flock. The LORD accepted Abel and his gift, but he did not accept Cain and his gift. This made Cain very angry, and he looked dejected. "Why are you so angry," the LORD asked Cain. "Why do you look so dejected? You will be accepted if you do what is right. But if you refuse to do what is right, then watch out! Sin is crouching at the door, eager to control you. But you must subdue it and be its master."

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Wednesday, April 19, 2023

Luke 12:54-56 Part 2 of 2

Then Jesus turned to the crowd and said, "When you see clouds beginning to form in the west, you say, 'Here comes a shower.' And you are right. When the south wind blows, you say, 'Today will be a scorcher.' And it is. You fools! You know how to interpret the weather signs of the earth and sky, but you don't know how to interpret the present times."

"You fools! You know how to interpret the weather signs of the earth and sky, but you don't know how to interpret the present times."

Matthew 16:3b "You know how to interpret the weather signs in the sky, but you don't know how to interpret the signs of the times!"

Luke 12:20 "But God said to him, 'You fool! You will die this very night. Then who will get everything you worked for?' "

Psalm 31:15 My future is in your hands. Rescue me from those who hunt me down relentlessly.

Psalm 62:8 O my people, trust in him at all times. Pour out your heart to him, for God is our refuge.

Isaiah 46:10 "Only I (God) can tell you the future before it even happens. Everything I plan will come to pass, for I do whatever I wish."

Acts 1:6-7 So when the apostles were with Jesus, they kept asking him, "Lord, has the time come for you to free Israel and restore our kingdom?" He replied, "The Father alone has the authority to set those dates and times, and they are not for you to know."

1 Thessalonians 5:1-3 Now concerning how and when all this will happen (see verses 4:13-18), dear brothers and sisters, we don't really need to write you. For you know quite well that the day of the Lord's return will come unexpectedly, like a thief in the night. When people are saying, "Everything is peaceful and secure," then disaster will fall on them as suddenly as a a pregnant woman's labor pains begin. And there will be no escape. (see verses 4-11)

2 Timothy 3:1 You should know this, Timothy, that in the last days there will be very difficult times. (see verses 2-9)

Revelation 1:3 God blesses the one who reads the words of this prophecy to the church, and he blesses all who listen to its message and obey what it says, for the time is near.

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Tuesday, April 18, 2023

Luke 12:54-56 Part 1 of 2

"When you see clouds beginning to form in the west, you say, "Here comes a shower. And you are right."

Matthew 16:2-3a He replied, "You know the saying, 'Red sky at night means fair weather tomorrow; red sky in the morning means foul weather all day.' "

1 Kings 18:41-45 Then Elijah said to Ahab, "Go get something to eat and drink, for I hear a mighty rainstorm is coming!" So Ahab went to eat and drink. But Elijah climbed to the top of Mount Carmel and bowed low to the ground and prayed with his face between his knees. Then he said to his servant, "Go and look out toward the sea." The servant went and looked, then returned to Elijah and said, "I didn't see anything." Seven times Elijah told him to go and look. Finally the seventh time, his servant told him, "I saw a little cloud about the size of a man's hand rising from the sea." Then Elijah shouted. "Hurry to Ahab and tell him, 'Climb into your chariot and go back home. If you don't hurry the rain will stop you!' " And soon the sky was black with clouds. A heavy wind brought a terrific rainstorm, and Ahab left quickly for Jezreel.

Psalm 72:6 May the king's rule be refreshing like spring rain on freshly cut grass, like showers water the earth.

Ezekiel 34:26 "I will bless my people and their homes around my holy hill. And in the proper season I will send the showers they need. There will be showers of blessing."

When the south wind blows, you say, 'Today will be a scorcher.' And it is."

Isaiah 49:10 "They will neither hunger nor thirst. The searing sun will not reach them anymore. For the LORD in his mercy will lead them; he will lead them beside cool waters."

Jonah 4:8 And as the sun grew hot, God arranged for a scorching east wind to blow on Jonah. The sun beat down on his head until he grew faint and wished to die. "Death is certainly better than living like this!" he exclaimed. (read Jonah)

John 3:8 "The wind blows wherever it wants. Just as you can hear the wind but can't tell where it comes from or where it is going, so you can't explain how people are born of the Spirit."

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Monday, April 17, 2023

Luke 12:49-53 Part 2 of 2

"I have come to set the world on fire, and I wish it were already burning! I have a terrible baptism of suffering ahead of me, and I am under a heavy burden until it is accomplished. Do you think I have come to bring peace to the earth? No, I have come to divide people against each other! From now on families will be split apart, three in favor of me, and two against--or two in favor and three against. 'Father will be divided against son and son against father; mother against daughter and daughter against mother; and mother-in-law against daughter-in-law and daughter-in-law against mother-in-law.' "

"and I am under a heavy burden until it is accomplished."

John 4:34 Then Jesus explained: "My nourishment comes from doing the will of God, who sent me, and from finishing his work."

John 17:4 "I brought glory to you here on earth by completing the work you gave me to do."

John 19:28-30 Jesus knew that his mission was now finished, and to fulfill Scripture he said, "I am thirsty." A jar of sour wine was sitting there, so they soaked a sponge in it, put it on a hysop branch, and held it up to his lips. When Jesus had tasted it, he said, "It is finished!" Then he bowed his head and released his spirit.

"Do you think I have come to bring peace to the earth? No, I have come to divide people against each other!"

Matthew 10:34 "Don't imagine that I came to bring peace to the earth! I came not to bring peace but a sword."

"From now on families will be split apart, three in favor of me, and two against--or two in favor and three against."

Luke 14:26 "If you want to be my disciple, you must hate everyone else by comparison--your father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters--yes, even your own life. Otherwise, you cannot be my disciple." (see also Matthew 10:37-39)

" 'Father against son and son against father; mother against daughter and daughter against mother; and mother-in-law against daughter-in-law and daughter-in-law against mother-in-law.' "

Micah 7:6 For the son despises his father. The daughter defies her mother. The daughter-in-law defies her mother-in-law. Your enemies are right in your own household!

Matthew 10:21 "A brother will betray his brother to death, a father will betray his own child, and children will rebel against their parents and cause them to be killed."

Matthew 10:35 " 'I have come to set a man against his father, a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law.' " (Micah 7:6)

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Sunday, April 16, 2023

Luke 12:49-53 Part 1 of 2

"I have come to set the world on fire, and I wish it were already burning!"

Matthew 3:11-12 "I (John the Baptist) baptize with water those who repent of their sins and turn to God. But someone is coming soon who is greater than I am--so much greater that I am not worthy even to be his slave and carry his sandals. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire. He is ready to separate the chaff from the wheat with his winnowing fork. Then he will clean up the threshing area, gathering the wheat into his barn but burning the chaff with never-ending fire." (See also Luke 3:16-17)

Acts 2:2-3 Suddenly, there was a sound from heaven like the roaring of a mighty windstorm, and it filled the house where they were sitting. Then, what looked like flames or tongues of fire appeared and settled on each of them. (see verses 1-41)

"I have a terrible baptism of suffering ahead of me,"

Mark 10:38 But Jesus said to them, "You don't know what you are asking! Are you able to drink from the bitter cup of suffering I am about to drink? Are you able to be baptized with the baptism of suffering I must be baptized with?" (see verses 35-45)

Isaiah 53:10 But it was the LORD's good plan to crush him and cause him grief. Yet when his life is made an offering for sin, he will have many descendants. He will enjoy a long life, and the LORD's good plan will prosper in his hands. (see verses 1-12)

John 18:11 But Jesus said to Peter, "Put your sword back into its sheath. Shall I not drink from the cup of suffering the Father has given me?" (see verses 1-14)

Matthew 26:42 Then Jesus left them a second time and prayed, "My Father! If this cup cannot be taken away unless I drink it, your will be done." (see verses 36-46; Luke 22:39-46)

Luke 22:33 When they came to a place called The Scull, they nailed him to the cross. And the criminals were also crucified--one on his right and one on his left.

Luke 23:46 Then Jesus shouted, "Father, I entrust my spirit into your hands!" And with those words he breathed his last. (see verses 34-49)

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Saturday, April 15, 2023

Luke 12:45-48 Part 3 of 3

"But what if the servant thinks, 'My master won't be back for awhile,' and he begins beating the other servants, partying and getting drunk? The master will return unannounced and unexpected, and he will cut the servant in pieces and banish him with the unfaithful. And a servant who knows what the master wants, but isn't prepared and doesn't carry out those instructions, will be severely punished. But someone who does not know, and then does something wrong, will be punished only lightly. When someone has been given much, much will be required in return; and when some one has been entrusted with much, even more will be required."

"And a servant who knows what the master wants, but isn't prepared and doesn't carry out those instructions, will be severely punished."

Matthew 11:23-24 "And you people of Capernaum, will you be honored in heaven? No, you will go down to the place of the dead. For if the miracles I did for you had been done in wicked Sodom, it would still be here today. I tell you, even Sodom will be better off on judgment day than you."

James 4:17 Remember, it is a sin to know what you ought to do and then not do it.

John 9:41 "If you were blind, you wouldn't be guilty," Jesus replied. "But you remain guilty because you claim you can see." (see verses 35-41)

Deuteronomy 25:2-3 "If the person in the wrong is sentenced to be flogged, the judge must command him to lie down and be beaten in his presence with the number of lashes appropriate to the crime. But never give more than forty lashes; more than forty lashes would publicly humiliate your neighbor."

"But someone who does not know, and then does something wrong, will be punished only lightly."

Leviticus 5:17 "Suppose you sin by violating one of the LORD's commands. Even if you are unaware of what you have done, you are guilty and will be punished for your sin." (see verses 18-19)

1 Timothy 1:12-13 I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has given me strength to do his work. He considered me trustworthy and appointed me to serve him, even though I used to blaspheme the name of Christ. In my insolence, I persecuted his people. But God had mercy on me because I did it in ignorance and unbelief. (See Acts 7:54-60; 8:1-3; 9:1-31)

"When someone has been given much, much will be required in return; and when someone has been entrusted with much, even more will be required."

Matthew 25:29a "To those who use well what they are given, even more will be given, and they will have an abundance."

Matthew 13:12 "To those who listen to my teaching, more understanding will be given, and they will have an abundance of knowledge. But for those who are not listening, even what little understanding they have will be taken away from them." (see also Mark 4:24-25)

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Friday, April 14, 2023

Luke 12:45-48 Part 2 of 3

"and he will cut the servant in pieces and banish him with the unfaithful."

Jeremiah 34:18-20 "Because you have broken the terms of our covenant, (see vs 8-11) I will cut you apart just as you cut apart the calf when you walked between its halves to solemnize your vows. Yes, I will cut you apart, whether you are officials of Judah or Jerusalem, court officials, priests, or common people--for you have broken your oath. I will give you to your enemies, and they will kill you. Your bodies will be food for the vultures and wild animals."

Matthew 24:50-51 "The master will return unannounced and unexpected, and he will cut the servant to pieces and assign him a place with the hypocrites. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth."

Matthew 15:29b-30 "But from those who do nothing, even what little they have will be taken away. Now throw this useless servant into outer darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth."

Luke 13:27-28 "And he will reply, 'I tell you, I don't know you or where you come from. Get away from me, all you who do evil.' There will be weeping and gnashing of teeth, for you will see Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and all the prophets in the Kingdom of God, but you will be thrown out." (see verses 22-30)

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Thursday, April 13, 2023

Luke 12:45-48 Part 1 of 3

"But what if the servant thinks, 'My master won't be back for a while,' and he begins beating the other servants, partying and getting drunk? The master will return unannounced and unexpected, and he will cut the servant in pieces and banish him with the unfaithful. And a servant who knows what the master wants, but isn't prepared and doesn't carry out those instructions, will be severely punished. But someone who does not know, and then does something wrong, will be punished only lightly. When someone has been given much, much will be required in return; and when some one has been entrusted with much, even more will be required."

"But what if the servant thinks, 'My master won't be back for a while,' "

Matthew 24:48 "But what if the servant is evil and thinks, 'My master won't be back for a while,' ... "

Matthew 25:5 "When the bridegroom was delayed, they all became drowsy and fell asleep." (see verses 1-13)

Hebrews 10:37 "For in just a little while the Coming One will come and not delay." (Habakkuk 2:3)

2 Peter 3:4 They (the scoffers) will say, "What happened to the promise that Jesus is coming again? From before the times of our ancestors, everything has remained the same since the world was first created."

2 Peter 3:9 The Lord isn't really being slow about his promise, as some people think. No, he is being patient for your sake. He does not want anyone to be destroyed, but wants everyone to repent.

"and he begins beating the other servants, partying and getting drunk?"

Matthew 24:49 "... and he begins beating the other servants, partying, and getting drunk?"

Luke 21:34 "Watch out! Don't let your hearts be dulled by carousing and drunkenness, and by worries of this life. Don't let that day catch you unaware, like a trap. For that day will come upon everyone living on earth."

1 Thessalonians 5:7 God has called us to live holy lives, not impure lives.

"The master will return unannounced and unexpected,"

2 Peter 3:11-12 Since everything around us is going to be destroyed like this, what holy and godly lives you should live, looking forward to the day of God and hurrying it along. On that day, he will set the heavens on fire, and the elements will melt away in the flames. (see verses 1-14)

Luke 12:40 "You also must be ready all the time, for the Son of Man will come when least expected."

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Wednesday, April 12, 2023

Luke 12:41-44 Part 2 of 2

Peter asked, "Lord, is that an illustration just for us or for everyone?" And the Lord replied, "A faithful, sensible servant is one to whom the master can give the responsibility of managing his other household servants and feeding them. If the master returns and finds that the servant has done a good job, there will be a reward. I tell you the truth, the master will put that servant in charge of all he owns."

"If the master returns and finds that the servant has done a good job, there will be a reward."

Matthew 25:21 "The master was full of praise. "Well done, my good and faithful servant. You have been faithful in handling this small amount, so now I will give you many more responsibilities. Let's celebrate together!" (also verse 23)

Psalm 19:11 They are a warning to your servant, a great reward for those who obey them. (see verses 7-10)

Proverbs 11:18 Evil people get rich for the moment, but the reward of the godly will last.

Proverbs 12:14 Wise words bring many benefits, and hard work brings rewards.

Proverbs 28:20 The trustworthy person will get a rich reward, but a person who wants quick riches will get into trouble.

Jeremiah 17:10 "But I, the LORD, search all hearts and examine secret motives. I give all people their due rewards according to what their actions deserve."

Ephesians 6:8 Remember that the Lord will reward each one of us for the good we do, whether we are slaves or free.

Colossians 3:24 Remember that the Lord will give you an inheritance as your reward, and that the Master you are serving is Christ.

Hebrews 11:26 He (Moses) thought it was better to suffer for the sake of Christ than to own the treasures of Egypt, for he was looking ahead to his great reward.

Revelation 22:12 "Look, I am coming soon, bringing my reward with me to repay all people according to their deeds."

"I tell you the truth, the master will put that servant in charge of all he owns."

Genesis 39:6 So Potiphar gave Joseph complete administrative responsibility over everything he owned. With Joseph there, he didn't worry about a thing--except what kind of food to eat!

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