the “Mercy” bridge

by abeIllustration, ScripturalPosted on Comments are Disabled

Mercy is the bridge between God’s justice and God’s grace, that was achieved at the cross, without which we would only face justice; but now we have grace lavished on us!

In today’s reading I got stuck in the word “mercy” described in the Beatitudes (Luke 6:20-38). I did a bit of deeper digging and here’s my recap.

  1. Is the act of withholding deserved punishment.
  2. Is forgiveness for a wrong committed.
  3. It is God’s character.
  4. He is the source of all mercy and the plumb line.
  5. An eternal attribute of God and not a fleeting emotion.
  6. It never ends – He is rich in mercy.
  7. His initiative to rescue us.
  8. Expects His children to do the same – show mercy!
  9. It is non-judgemental and non-condemnational.
  10. Divine economy – principle of reciprocity – with the same measure.
  11. Divine strength not weakness.
  12. A command and not a suggestion – to obey – not optional.
  13. Comes with a warning in Matthew 18: 35.

“All” things

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All people drawn.

And I, if I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all people to Myself.” John 12:32

All things are possible.

But Jesus said to him, “‘If You can’? All things are possible for the one who believes.” Mark 9:23.

All things I can do.

I can do all things through Him who strengthens me. Philippians 4:13.

All things work together.

And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. Romans 8:28.

In All things more than conquerors

Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. Romans 8:37.

All authority given

And Jesus came up and spoke to them, saying, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me. Go, therefore, and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to follow all that I commanded you; and behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” Matthew 28:18-20

in All things obey

teaching them to follow all that I commanded you. Matthew 28:20.

All Scripture

All Scripture is inspired by God and beneficial for teaching, rebuke, correction and training in righteousness, that the man or woman of God may be fully capable, equipped for every good work. 2Timothy 3:16-17.

All things handed over

All things have been handed over to Me by My Father; and no one knows the Son except the Father; nor does anyone know the Father except the Son, and anyone to whom the Son determines to reveal Him. Matthew 11:27

All things entrusted

The Father loves the Son and has entrusted all things to His hand. John 3:35

All things (needs) supplied.

And my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:19.

BUT my need is You !

Fasting & Prayer

by abeScripturalPosted on Comments are Disabled

Today’s sermon in church was about “Fasting” by Chris Scott. The less popular “twin”- fasting.

Another blessing to share, which are extracts from his sermon.

Psalm 27: 5-6. For on the day of trouble He will conceal me in His tabernacle; He will hide me in the secret place of His tent; He will lift me up on a rock. And now my head will be lifted up above my enemies around me,

God lifts us up above the issues we face to have the aerial view (His) to help us gain the correct perspective. He does not necessarily remove that which is around us or things we face. He also protects us in these challenges. Fasting is not to twist the arm of God.

“Make space and place to fast, to deepen your intimacy with Him”

  • Fasting reveals what controls us
  • Fasting realigns our dependance
  • Fasting restores balance
  • Fasting is spiritual feasting

My food is to do the will of the Father. Matt 4:4, Deut 8:3. | Where or what is my appetite for?

Everything to glorify the Father and become like His Son Jesus.

My prayer and need

by abePrayer, ScripturalPosted on Comments are Disabled
Search me and know my heart
(Psalms 139:23)
Heal me and restore my soul
(Psalms 23:3)
Teach me and test my ways
(Psalms 25:4)
Refine me and let me shine
(Psalms 66:10)
To manifest your pure glory
(2 Corinthins 3:18)

We need Him every hour for this to happen.

Lord I need you, Oh I need you
Every hour I need you
My one defence, my righteousness
Oh God how I need you

Listen to the song by Matt Maher and may God bless you

Mediation & Intercession

by abePrayer, Scriptural, TheologyPosted on Comments are Disabled

Sooner or later the teaching about mediation and intercession crops up. Here is a summarised Biblical narrative on this aspect. For a deeper dive go to this page.

Jesus: The Exclusive Way to God

Jesus declares Himself the sole path to the Father, emphasising His unique authority as the way, truth, and life. No other intermediary suffices. Authority is key and sets the stage.

  • John 14:6: “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”

Jesus: The Eternal Intercessor

Positioned at God’s right hand, Jesus intercedes perfectly, rendering additional mediators unnecessary.

  • Romans 8:34: Christ, who died and was raised, intercedes for us at God’s right hand.
  • Hebrews 7:24-25: His permanent priesthood ensures complete salvation for those who approach God through Him.

The Holy Spirit: Aligned Intercession

The Spirit intercedes in our weakness, always pointing to Jesus and aligning with God’s will.

  • Romans 8:26-27: The Spirit intercedes with groanings, according to God’s will.
  • John 15:26; 14:26: The Spirit testifies of Jesus and reminds us of His teachings.

Mary’s Role: Honoured but Limited

Mary was a blessed vessel, but her role as Jesus’ earthly mother ended at the cross. Obedience, not biology, defines spiritual significance.

  • Luke 2:19, 33, 48-49: Mary and Joseph marvel at Jesus, who clarifies His divine Father.
  • Luke 11:27-28: Jesus prioritizes obedience over Mary’s maternal role.
  • Matthew 12:46-50; Mark 3:31-35; Luke 8:19-21: Those who do God’s will are His family.
  • John 19:26-27: Jesus publicly transitions Mary’s role, entrusting her to John.

Jesus: The Sole High Priest

Only Jesus, sinless and God-appointed, qualifies as High Priest, mediating atonement and access to God.

  • Hebrews 2:17; 4:14-16; 5:1-4; 9:14, 15, 22, 24, 28: Jesus, unblemished, offers Himself for our sins and appears in God’s presence.
  • 1 Timothy 2:1, 5: One God, one Mediator—the man Christ Jesus.
  • Hebrews 2:18: He helps in temptation, having suffered it Himself.

Other Mediators: Ineffective

No one else—living or dead—can mediate. Scripture warns against seeking intermediaries beyond Christ.

  • Luke 16:19-31: A chasm prevents post-death mediation, as seen in the rich man’s plea to Abraham.
  • James 5:14-16: Prayer is among the living, not through the departed.

Direct Prayer Through Jesus

Jesus invites prayer in His name, ensuring direct access to the Father for complete joy.

  • John 14:13-14; 16:24: Ask in Jesus’ name, and He will do it.
  • Hebrews 9:15: He mediates the new covenant through His death.

Completeness in Christ

Christ’s fullness eliminates the need for other mediators. Traditions that add to Him distract from truth.

  • Colossians 1:19-20; 2:8-10: All deity dwells in Christ; in Him, we are complete.

Conclusion: Christ Alone

Scripture unequivocally establishes Jesus as the only Mediator. Praying through others, like Mary or saints, lacks biblical support and distracts from knowing Jesus personally. His sacrifice alone secures salvation, and His priesthood grants direct access to God’s grace.

33K – Episode 3 – The 3Ps & 3Rs

by abe33K, Illustration, ScripturalPosted on Comments are Disabled

Purchaser | Possessor | Potentate

Jesus Christ stands as the divine Purchaser who, through His sacrificial death on the cross, redeemed humanity from the bondage of sin and death, paying the ultimate price with His own blood to buy back what was lost in Eden (1 Peter 1:18-19). As the Possessor, He claims ownership over those He has redeemed, sealing believers as His treasured possession with the Holy Spirit, ensuring their eternal security and inheritance in His realm (Ephesians 1:13-14). In His eternal Kingdom, Jesus reigns supreme (Potentate) as the King of kings, the sovereign Lord who establishes justice, peace, and righteousness, inviting the faithful into intimate fellowship and authority under His rule (Revelation 19:16, 1Timothy 6:15). For the believing Christian, this unfolds as a profound progression: first, embracing redemption as purchased slaves set free from sin’s tyranny; then, surrendering(regeneration) to His possession as beloved children adopted into God’s family; and ultimately, advancing to co-heirs and co-rulers in His Kingdom, where faith matures into eternal reign alongside the risen Christ, transforming earthly pilgrims into victorious participants in His divine glory (Romans 8:17; Revelation 5:10).

PURCHASER – Redemption – Accomplished at the Cross (SAVIOUR)

  • 1 Peter 1: 18-19. Purchased with the precious blood of Jesus
  • 1 Corinthians 6: 20. Bought at a price
  • Revelation 5: 9. His blood purchased us from every tribe, language and nation
  • Acts 20: 28. Bought the church with His blood
  • Ephesians 1: 7. Redemption through His blood

POSSESSOR – Regeneration – Working of the Holy Spirit (LORD)

  • Acts 20: 28. Redemptive ownership
  • Romans 8: 1, John 17: 6-12. Spiritual union
  • John 10: 28-29. Protection and Guidance
  • Ephesians 1: 18. Covenant relationship
  • Romans 10: 9. Jesus as Lord of His People
  • 1 Corinthians 6:19-20. Not your own anymore
  • For further study: John 10:14-16, 27-29, Ephesians 1:13-14, Titus 2:14, 1 Peter 2:9, Matthew 28:18-20

The Greek word κύριος (kyrios) is commonly translated as “Lord”, “master”, or “owner“, ”possessor” in English. It is frequently applied to Jesus, emphasising His divine authority, ownership, and lordship, particularly in His relationship with His people. In the Old Testament “kyrios” translates YHWH (Philippians 2:9-11 cites Isaiah 45: 23.) underscores Jesus as the divine Possessor whose lordship extends to all creation including His people in the present age.

POTENTATE – Reign established (KING OF KINGS)

1 Timothy 6:15. “which He will manifest in His own time, He who is the blessed and only Potentate, the King of kings and Lord of lords,”.

Potentate is a word to describe Jesus Christ’s role in the future kingdom rule. It signifies a ruler with supreme power and authority, aligning with His depiction as the sovereign King in God’s kingdom, emphasising His ultimate dominion and leadership in the Messianic Kingdom. This term captures His role as the authoritative ruler who will govern with divine justice, righteousness, and power, as described in Revelation 19:16 and Isaiah 9:7.

Application:

  • Believers belong to Him, not to themselves or the world, shaping their identity and purpose (Galatians 2:20).
  • His ownership provides assurance of salvation, as no one can “snatch” His people from His hand (John 10:29).
  • His possession calls for a response of faithfulness, as His people are set apart to reflect His character and mission. (1 Peter 2:9).
  • We are being prepared for a greater purpose. “Be aware”, “Be faithful”, and “Endure to the end”.

Why Does a Good God Allow Suffering?

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The question of why a loving, all-powerful God permits suffering is one of the most profound and challenging questions we face. Why does God allow good people to suffer? Does suffering have a purpose? If God is good, why doesn’t He stop it? These questions strike at the heart of faith and human experience.

As Proverbs 28:5 says, “Evil people do not understand justice, but those who seek the Lord understand it fully.” While we may not grasp everything, what matters is how we respond to what we do know. Here are key truths to consider:

1. God’s Original Plan and Human Free Will

   God is sovereign, and His original plan for humanity was not suffering but a loving relationship with Him as our Father. He created us with free will, a gift that allows us to choose love and obedience. However, humanity’s disobedience introduced sin into the world, and with it came suffering—not as punishment, but as a consequence of turning away from God’s perfect design. Romans 5:12 explains, “Sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin.” Yet, amazingly, God works all things for the good of those who love Him (Romans 8:28), transforming even suffering into something redemptive for believers.

2. Suffering Aligns Us with God’s Eternal Purpose

   In this fallen world, suffering serves a purpose in God’s plan. He uses it to shape us into the image of His Son, Jesus Christ, preparing us for eternity. While our perspective is limited to this brief life, God’s purposes are eternal. As 2 Corinthians 4:17 reminds us, “Our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.” Suffering, though painful, is temporary for those who know Him, and it refines us for an everlasting future with God.

3. God Entered Our Suffering  

   God is not distant from our pain. In Jesus Christ, He became human, endured suffering, and bore the ultimate agony on the cross to pay the price for our redemption from sin. This act of love shows that God cares deeply about our suffering. While faith in Christ does not eliminate suffering in this life, it assures us that God is with us in it, working out His purposes. His grace is sufficient (2 Corinthians 12:9), and suffering will end when we enter eternity with Him.

4. The Question of God’s Justice  

   At the very heart of these questions lies a deeper one: Is God just? We may not understand everything, but God calls us to trust His sovereignty rather than to have all the answers. If God did not exist, suffering would still exist—but it would lack meaning or hope. With God, suffering becomes purposeful, bearable, and temporal. As believers, we trust that He is weaving a story of redemption, even through our pain.

5. Suffering’s Dual Impact 

   Suffering can draw us closer to God or push us away. It tests and refines our faith. To those enduring suffering, hold fast. You are not alone! Many face trials, but God promises to work all things for good, for those who love Him (Romans 8:28). Trust Him, even when the path is unclear. As Psalm 34:18 assures us, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”

A Call to Trust

If you’re grappling with suffering, lean into God’s promises. Believe in Jesus Christ, who offers salvation from sin, shame, and the eternal consequences of suffering. His grace sustains us now, and His victory guarantees that one day, suffering will cease. Trust Him, for He is faithful, and He is preparing you for an eternity of joy in His presence.

The love of Christ in 4D

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Depicting four dimensions (width, length, height, and depth) visually is challenging since humans typically perceive only three spatial dimensions, with time often considered the fourth. Interestingly time is a dimension mentioned in the 4 dimensions in this passage from Ephesians 3:17-19. “so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; and that you, being rooted and grounded in love,may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the width and length and height and depth,and to know the love of Christ which surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled to all the fullness of God.” God’s love is vast, spanning every dimension of existence—wide, long, high, and deep. It invites all to respond through faith in Jesus.

Width: For All People

God’s love embraces everyone—regardless of race, creed, wealth, or status. John 3:16 declares, “God so loved the world that He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.” Romans 10:12–13 adds, “The same Lord richly blesses all who call on Him, for everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” Yet, as Matthew 7:13–14 warns, the gate is narrow, and few choose it.

Length: A Lifetime to Choose

God grants each person time to accept His love, but life is fleeting. 2 Corinthians 6:2 urges, “Now is the day of salvation.”Hebrews 9:27 reminds us, “It is appointed for man to die once, and after that comes judgment.” Do not delay, for tomorrow is not promised (Proverbs 29:1).

Height: The Ultimate Sacrifice

God’s love shines brightest in Jesus’ sacrifice. John 15:13 states, “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” This pure love, rooted in God Himself (1 John 4:8), redeems us from wrath. There is no greater love! Rejecting it means rejecting eternal life.

Depth: Reaching Every Soul

No one is beyond God’s love, except by their own rejection. No matter how low one has stooped to! His love reaches any depth. John 14:6 proclaims Jesus as “the way, the truth, and the life.” Romans 8:38–39 assures, “Neither death nor life, nor anything in creation, will separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus.” This deep love transforms, as 1 John 4:19 says, “We love because He first loved us.”

Respond Today

God’s boundless love calls for a response. Trust Jesus, know Him through His Word, and be known by God (1 Corinthians 8:3). May His love guide and transform you.

Today is your day, tomorrow may be too late!

33K – Episode 2 -the trifold master plan

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The plan is to serve the purpose (the final desired outcome). Not many are aware or understand this and that includes many Christians. Our life would be quite different if we understood what we are actually destined for.

Step 1 : RECONCILIATION OF HIS LOST

By birth we are lost, rebellious and far from God’s nature. We are lost in our world, living our lives according to our will which has resulted in the separation from a Holy God who created us for Him. We therefore do not have a relationship with God and stand in His judgement. Reconciliation is restoring the relationship after being apart (eg; due to a fight or disagreement). This is possible only because Jesus paid our price, ransom, or penalty through His death on the cross by the shedding of His blood. This is done now. If we believe and put our trust in Jesus who was the only one who paid that price for us, then we have been reconciled to God. This is the start of the journey.

Step 2 : RESTORATION OF HIS IMAGE

We were created in His image. This image is the nature of God. We lost it in the garden. We have a different nature now that is rebellious, sinful, and selfish. God is restoring that image in His children who have been reconciled, to the likeness of His Son Jesus through our obedience and surrender to Him.

Step 3: RE-ESTABLISHING HIS KINGDOM

His kingdom is both a spiritual and a physical kingdom. He is purchasing the lost through the finished work of Jesus, then conforms us to the image of His Son in preparation of being part of His kingdom.

We will explore all this in the coming episodes….

33K – Episode 1 -setting the stage!

by abe33K, Illustration, ScripturalPosted on Comments are Disabled

To grasp the whole truth, one needs a 33 K view.1 I chose 33,000 feet for it’s a term used to express the big picture. From a spiritual point, it is the kind of view, God has of the world and how He is working everything according to His plans and purposes. The sort of “grand scheme of things”. If I were to ask the question, what is it all about, or what is God’s grand plan ? What is He actually doing ? What would be your understanding or response ? Of course, the follow on question is how does it matter to me or do I really care? I pose this not only to the ones who don’t know the truth but also to one’s who know Him. It is paramount to both and has eternal but different outcomes. This may take more than one post, so bear with me and come on this journey to explore the grand plan. I did debate in my own mind whether to start this discourse straight from the top or to start small and build it up. I have chosen the former, as we often can get lost with the little things and miss out on the big picture. So will start with the big picture or the 33K view. Curious? In the next few episodes we will explore and examine this truth including the “small print”. Interestingly the 33K view is from Psalm 33!

  1. Psalm 33: 13-14 ↩︎