Do you remember the story of Jesus allowing a bunch of demons to enter a herd of pigs? We find if funny but it is no laughing matter. Today we’ll be looking at how Jesus responded to a demon possessed man. And how the community reacts when that man is given a new life at the cost of a herd of pigs?
Every Last Word features the Bible teaching ministry of Dr. Philip Ryken. The mission of this ministry is to broadcast clear Bible teaching that glorifies God and helps people grow by grace through faith in Jesus Christ. This weekly program helps Christians apply God's Word to everyday living.
Every Last Word features the Bible teaching ministry of Dr. Philip Ryken. The mission of this ministry is to broadcast clear Bible teaching that glorifies God and helps people grow by grace through faith in Jesus Christ. This weekly program helps Christians apply God's Word to everyday living.
Do you feel like a storm has taken over your life? Have you recently been faced with unemployment, a sudden illness, or some other painful event? Jesus’ and His disciples were sailing across a lake when an unexpected storm blew in. The Storm was so strong that even these experienced sailors feared for their lives. They frantically came to Jesus, who was asleep in the boat. Sometimes we feel Jesus doesn’t care about the danger in our lives. But He does care. Jesus is able to calm our storms just as he calmed the disciples’ storm at sea.
Have you ever been told that you look just like one of your parents? Or maybe you have the same mannerisms as a brother or sister. What about your spiritual family? Do you live in such a way that others will be able to see the family resemblance? Is it easy to see from your actions that you are a child of God?
Jesus gives His followers a parable to teach them how people respond to the good news of the Gospel. Some people embrace it enthusiastically, but quickly fall away because it wasn’t rooted deep within them. Others have it snatched from them before it even enters their consciousness. Still others believe, but when they tested, the truth gets strangled inside of them. There are some people, however, in whom the Word of God firmly takes root and produces wonderful fruit in their lives and the lives of others. What kind of person are you?
A prostitute walks into the dinner party of a prominent religious leader. She cries over Jesus’ feet, then uses her hair to dry the tears. She then pours very expensive perfume on Jesus’ feet. The religious leader is indignant. Surely Jesus can’t be a prophet if he’s letting this woman touch him! The Pharisee is in for a powerful lesson today concerning his own sinfulness and lack of love.
Are you disillusioned with God? Are you disappointed because your expectations haven’t been met? Maybe God didn’t heal you or provide certain finances? John the Baptist dealt with these same struggles. The very man who proclaimed Christ as the Messiah was now doubting that himself. John dealt with his doubts in a way that sets an example for each of us.