15
Apr '25
Why the Resurrection of Jesus Matters!
15
Apr '25
Introduction: If Jesus had not risen from the grave, then we might as well throw our Bibles away! If Jesus Christ had not conquered death, then we would all die in our sins. But He has overcome death! Because of that, those who put their faith and trust in His Word can be redeemed by His blood and saved by His life. Plus, we are assured of a home in Heaven with those who have gone before us. Thank God for the resurrection of Jesus Christ! Do you believe in the Resurrection of Jesus? Why does it matter? Check it out:
1. DEATH has been DEFEATED! (1 Cor. 15:55–57) – “O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory? The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.”
Death ruled and reigned over the whole human race from Adam unto Jesus. While sitting on his throne with the crown upon his head, no one was able to challenge the “Grim Reaper”! That is, until the RESURRECTION and the LIFE—Jesus Christ—left Heaven’s glory, was born of a virgin, lived without sin, died to pay our sin debt, and then burst forth from the grave with resurrection power on the third day, just as He said He would. History was made. Eternity was sealed. Death was defeated! Truthfully, after witnessing so many live ones pass from this life unto the life to come, and preaching my dad, mom, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and countless friends’ funerals, this Pastor can honestly sing with a bereaved but blessed heart, “Oh VICTORY in JESUS!”
2. The DEVIL’S POWER over DEATH has been SQUASHED! (Heb. 2:14–15) – “Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil; And deliver them who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage.”
Throughout the Bible, God repeats the message that it is appointed unto men to die, and then comes the judgment (Heb. 9:27). However, because the Son of God “tasted death” for every man; beside that, He became sin for us who knew no sin—now we can face the grave without FEAR! Is death intimidating you? Look to Jesus! Have confidence in His finished work!! Rest in His Word!!! Our Heavenly Home is awaiting!!!! The best is yet to come.
3. JESUS has the MASTER KEY! (Rev. 1:18) – “I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death.”
He had to die. He had to suffer. He had to bleed. Why? So that we could go FREE—free from sin’s penalty, free from sin’s power, and one day free from sin’s presence. What appeared to be an awful tragedy when Christ was brutally crucified turned out to be the most historical and monumental event in human history—the RESURRECTION!
4. Every CHRISTian has ASSURANCE and HOPE of HEAVEN beyond DEATH! (1 Pet. 1:3–4) – “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you.”
Praise the LORD! Jesus is ALIVE!! That means we have a glorious future ahead! Heaven is awaiting its citizens. Actually, according to both Peter and Paul’s inspired writing, that is what every believer has to look forward to. Do you ever think about it? Can you imagine what Heaven is going to be like? “I Can Only Imagine!” No more sickness, sorrow, suffering, or sin!!
Conclusion: Did you know that Jesus never preached a funeral? Instead, He raised Lazarus, Jairus’s daughter, and the widow of Nain’s son from the dead! While she led a procession of MISERY, Jesus led a procession of MAJESTY, which turned into VICTORY as her son was raised from the coffin!
Please don’t forget that JESUS has wonder-working power over death, demons, and disease! How? Because not only is He a WAY MAKER, a CHAIN BREAKER, a MOUNTAIN MOVER, a STORM CALMER, a PEACE GIVER, a DEVIL DEFYER, a GIANT KILLER, but the Son of God is also a GRAVE ROBBER! “Because HE LIVES, we can face tomorrow!” “I SERVE a RISEN SAVIOR!!”
Now we can sing from our hearts with joy and gratitude to the KING of GLORY because He has promised to come again! Will you join the chorus in Heaven and rejoice that we serve a RISEN SAVIOR?? That is why the RESURRECTION should matter to you!
Love y’all,
Dr. Randy Reese
14
Apr '25
The Kangaroo Court
14
Apr '25
Introduction: Have you ever looked into the “mock trial” of Jesus Christ? If so, you’ve seen how it was a “done deal”! From false accusations to guilty deliberations, it was doomed from the start. Because of the timing of the trials—namely the preparation for the Passover—it was hastily carried out. Besides that, both the Roman law and the Jewish law collided in the process. The Jewish trial consisted of a somewhat informal examination. This was done before Annas (John 18:12–23). It included a hearing before the High Priest Caiaphas along with the Sanhedrin.
Next, the formal trial began early in the morning, during which Jesus was sent to Pilate. Some suggest that the Jewish trial verdict could not have sentenced Jesus to death; therefore, He was sent to be sentenced before the Roman court headed by Pilate.
Though this devotion is not exhaustive, here were the main charges:
1. Blasphemy against God! (Matt. 26:59–66) – “Now the chief priests, and elders, and all the council, sought false witness against Jesus, to put him to death; but found none: yea, though many false witnesses came, yet found they none. At the last came two false witnesses, and said, This fellow said, I am able to destroy the temple of God, and to build it in three days. And the high priest arose, and said unto him, Answerest thou nothing? what is it which these witness against thee? But Jesus held his peace. And the high priest answered and said unto him, I adjure thee by the living God, that thou tell us whether thou be the Christ, the Son of God. Jesus saith unto him, Thou hast said: nevertheless I say unto you, Hereafter shall ye see the Son of man sitting on the right hand of power, and coming in the clouds of heaven. Then the high priest rent his clothes, saying, He hath spoken blasphemy; what further need have we of witnesses? behold, now ye have heard his blasphemy. What think ye? They answered and said, He is guilty of death.”
Matthew’s description of the mock trial specifies the false accusations against Jesus—even though He was God!
2. Treason against Caesar! (John 18:36) – “My kingdom is not of this world.”
Now, the Romans would not tolerate anyone who usurped authority over the King, Caesar. In this case, Jesus claimed to be the King of the Jews. Howbeit, in all actuality, He was and will forever be King of the Jews! In His second coming, many of the Jews will “look upon Him whom they’ve pierced,” according to Zechariah’s prophecy.
3. Accused of being a Malefactor (John 18:29–31) – “Then led they Jesus from Caiaphas unto the hall of judgment: and it was early; and they themselves went not into the judgment hall, lest they should be defiled; but that they might eat the passover. Pilate then went out unto them, and said, What accusation bring ye against this man? They answered and said unto him, If he were not a malefactor, we would not have delivered him up unto thee.”
Please do not overlook the word “malefactor.” Why? Because it perhaps explains some of the charges brought against Jesus. The word “malefactor” is κακός, which means bad, evil, wicked, and even harmful.
Bottom line: There are those who claim Jesus was a magician by practicing sorcery; i.e., raising Lazarus from the dead.
Conclusion: As we conclude, it is absolutely necessary to remind every reader that all of this was planned and permitted by the will of God from eternity past. Why? Because God’s purpose in all of it was to ultimately redeem mankind from his sin, and in so doing, bring sinful man back into a right relationship with his Savior, Creator, and Redeemer.
Therefore, sovereignly controlling the events in the Kangaroo Court of Jesus Christ, remember—the God of the Bible was glorified!
Love y’all,
Dr. Randy Reese
11
Apr '25
The Cup Before the Cross
11
Apr '25
Introduction: A non-negotiable, irreversible principle in the Bible is the CUP must come before the CROSS! What do we mean? Take the life and death of Jesus Christ first in order to see this fleshed out. Then will you ask the question, how does this apply to CHRISTians (me)?
1. First, our will must submit to God’s will! (Matt. 26:39) – “And he went a little further, and fell on his face, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt.”
Get the picture. Jesus had just finished the Passover meal with His disciples, with one who was a devil, and while explaining His death—which they were oblivious to—the events concerning the “cup” would transpire in just a few hours. Nonetheless, after washing their feet, He rises from the table and makes His way to a garden—not any old garden, but the one called Gethsemane.
By the way, the word Gethsemane is the Hebrew equivalent גת שמנא (gath shemanim), which directly translates to “oil press.” What a graphic description of God the Son’s will being pressed out. Do you think our will needs to follow His?
Have you prayed lately—not my will but Yours, oh Lord?
2. Secondly, our purpose will fulfill God’s purpose! (John 6:38–40) – “For I came down from heaven, not to do mine own will, but the will of him that sent me. And this is the Father’s will which hath sent me, that of all which he hath given me I should lose nothing, but should raise it up again at the last day. And this is the will of him that sent me, that every one which seeth the Son, and believeth on him, may have everlasting life: and I will raise him up at the last day.”
Did you know our Father has a purpose for you? In other words, we are not on earth just to take up space! Instead, our purpose is to be made more like Him. Why? In order for those who do not know Him, that they will not only come to know Him, but will also love Him, and then in turn, serve Him.
Do you love Him? Are you serving Him? Have you discovered life’s secret treasure found in a love relationship with Jesus Christ?
3. Thirdly, God is glorified! (John 17:1–5) – “These words spake Jesus, and lifted up his eyes to heaven, and said, Father, the hour is come; glorify thy Son, that thy Son also may glorify thee: As thou hast given him power over all flesh, that he should give eternal life to as many as thou hast given him. And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent. I have glorified thee on the earth: I have finished the work which thou gavest me to do. And now, O Father, glorify thou me with thine own self with the glory which I had with thee before the world was.”
While those who do not know the God of the Bible are running day after day in their own world, eternity is the destination of every human being. Sadly, some will miss heaven. Blinded by the god of this world, many are chasing their own dreams, pursuing their own desires, and living only for the present and forgetting eternity.
However, according to the Bible, a rude awakening is ahead for those who do not have time to make things right with God, or do not have any concern for the things of God.
Does your life reflect God’s glory? Are you intentionally encouraging people to prepare to meet God?
Conclusion: A brief review of the subject—The CUP before the CROSS—reveals God the Father’s plan for not only His Son, Jesus Christ, but also His Church.
Are you a part of the family of God? If so, remember, we have a “CUP” to drink from before our CROSS we are to carry.
Love y’all,
Dr. Randy Reese
10
Apr '25
Deeper Than Water
10
Apr '25
Introduction: Have you been baptized? Did you understand it? Do you know the meaning of baptism? Is it “Deeper than Water? Let’s see.
1. Water Baptism is an “Outward Demonstration” of an “Inward Revelation”! (Rom 6:1-5) – “……3Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? 4Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. 5For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection.”
What a biblical truth our Lord wants us to know! He has done it in Jesus! He is not asking for our opinion. He is telling us a heavenly FACT. But it must be appropriated by FAITH. Then comes the FRUIT.
2. Water Baptism is an “Outward Demonstration” of an Inward Appropriation”! (Rom 6:6-11) – “6Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin. 7For he that is dead is freed from sin. 8Now if we be dead with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with him: 9Knowing that Christ being raised from the dead dieth no more; death hath no more dominion over him. 10For in that he died, he died unto sin once: but in that he liveth, he liveth unto God. 11Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord.”
This FACT of being co-crucified with Christ now leads to co resurrected with Jesus. However, the door is unlocked only by FAITH. The result of that is FRUIT!
3. Water Baptism is an “Outward Demonstration” of an “Inward Manifestation” (Rom 6:12-13) – “2Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof. 13Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God.”
Great FRUIT bursts forth because of FAITH in the FACT. All of this process is experienced in baptism.
Conclusion: Now we see. Baptism is DEEPER than WATER! Did you discover Baptism pictures the CHRISTian’s Victory over the dominion of sin? Wow!
Love y’all,
Dr. Randy Reese
09
Apr '25
Working Out What God Works In
09
Apr '25
Introduction: Did you know that our Lord is not going to completely live the Christian life for you as if you were a robot? Instead, He has given us the tools {His Spirit} to accomplish the task. But how does that happen, one may ask? The passage of Scripture before us explains how our Lord does it. Check it out:
By the way, what may seem like a contradiction to the average reader concerning this process turns out to be a fairly basic principle. Let’s take a look at the book.
By the way, what may seem like a contradiction to the average reader concerning this process turns out to be a fairly basic principle. Let’s take a look at the book.
1. What does “work out” mean in regards to one’s salvation? (Phil 2:11–13) – “Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.”
Please be sure to read this not only in its context but also comparing Scripture with Scripture. For example, from a prison incarceration, Paul, inspired by the Holy Spirit, gives specific instructions to the Church of Philippi as well as us today in regards to living the Christian life. More specifically, he describes this supernatural life, revealing it to be characterized by humiliation, self-renunciation, and for the purpose of edification for other believers. Using the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, he mirrors the life that pleases our Heavenly Father. With that being said, he admonished the believers to “work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.” But what does he mean? How can that be done?
Technically speaking, the Christian learns to come under in order to be over; he or she learns to go down in order to get up; plus, he or she learns to get out in order to get in. The verb “work out” is κατεργάζομαι, which means to literally work out, or to accomplish. It can have to do with producing, or even to bring about. Next, the word “salvation” is σωτηρία. This needs some clarification. Remember the tense of salvation can mean one of three events—regeneration, sanctification, and finally glorification.
Obviously, God is not contradicting His Word by telling us to “WORK” for your salvation, because it is clearly not obtained by WORKS (Eph 2:8,9; Titus 3:5,6). Howbeit, He is pointing to the process once we’ve been forgiven—saved—to WORK OUT the process of sanctification.
Bottom line: The Holy Spirit of God WORKS in the “Truth of God” thru the WORD of God, which in turn transforms the believer’s mind, will, and emotions. The end result is a change of lifestyle as the Christian yields to the power of the Holy Spirit. Are you letting the Word of God change your thought process?
Conclusion: Once we discover this hidden treasure of truth, then as followers of Jesus Christ, others notice the way that we handle things differently than the world and are drawn to embrace the same Christ that now lives in us. He is WORKING IN as we WORK it OUT!
Love y’all,
Dr. Randy Reese
08
Apr '25
The Need for Speed
08
Apr '25
Introduction: Information explosion! With lightning speed, technology is expanding at record speed. It’s so fast that it changes before you can keep up with it—some good, some not so good. Nevertheless, our world is changing. But remember, God’s Word does not change! And by the way, Jesus is the same yesterday, today and forever. Therefore, even in Daniel’s day, knowledge was prophesied to increase. Why? Perhaps because of a “Need for Speed.”
Think about it. From the internet, to cell phone pick up, to cable connections, to satellite speed there is a push for receiving faster information through technological advances.
How did Daniel know this would be the case, or did he? Let’s see:
1. Daniel foresaw that we will not be able to “stop troubled times” but can spread “triumphant truth”!(Dan 12:1) – “And at that time shall Michael stand up, the great prince which standeth for the children of thy people: and there shall be a time of trouble, such as never was since there was a nation even to that same time: and at that time thy people shall be delivered, every one that shall be found written in the book.”
Technically speaking this passage of Scripture is during the tribulation (Rev 6–18), which comes after the rapture of the Church (1 Thess 4:13–18). The focal point is the nation of Israel—more specifically the “Day of Jacob’s trouble” (Jer 30:7). Yet, at the same time, we are facing days of tribulation even today. Please understand, it will intensify. But the “Good News” is that we can share “Triumphant Truth” during troubled times! Are you doing it! Why be negative? Our Lord is on His throne! His kingdom is an everlasting kingdom.
2. Daniel foresaw that we would not be able to “stop Judgement Day” but can help others to get ready!
(Dan 12:2,3) – “And many of them that sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, some to everlasting life, and some to shame and everlasting contempt. And they that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament; and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars for ever and ever.”
(Dan 12:2,3) – “And many of them that sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, some to everlasting life, and some to shame and everlasting contempt. And they that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament; and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars for ever and ever.”
Inevitably, Judgement Day is coming! Can we prepare others to get ready? What are you doing to lovingly warn others to run from the wrath that is to come in the future (Rev 20:11–15)?
3. Daniel foresaw that while we would not be able to “stop the NEED for SPEED” we can look forward to that great getting up Morning! (Dan 12:4–13) – “But thou, O Daniel, shut up the words, and seal the book, even to the time of the end: many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall be increased.”
As mentioned earlier in this devotion, we have seen an explosion of technology in the last few years. Actually, it is hard to keep up with it, due to it changing so often. What we can do, however, is prepare to “fly in the sky” when Christ comes again. Are you looking forward to that great getting up morning?
Conclusion: “But go thou thy way till the end be: for thou shalt rest, and stand in thy lot at the end of the days.” (Dan 12:13)
The NEED for SPEED is upon us—like it or not. Instead of trying to stop the inevitables, as God’s people we need to start sharing truth, preparing for the Judgment Seat of Christ, and finally, looking to the sky because Jesus is coming again.
Love y’all,
Dr. Randy Reese
07
Apr '25
Fill My Cup Lord
07
Apr '25
Introduction: Do you want Jesus Christ to fill your cup? Does your cup ever get empty? Bring it to Him! Let Him fill your cup up today. If you ask Him in faith, He will. Why not drink His LIVING WATER? He’s got it! Drink it!!
Let’s take a look at the book:
1. If you are thirsty, then Jesus will Fill your Cup! (John 7:37,38) – “…..the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried, saying, If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink. He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water.”
The key is “believing”. Do you believe? If so, get ready for a raging River to flow through you.
2. If you are lonely, then Jesus will Fill your Cup! (John 4) – “Jesus answered and said unto her, Whosoever drinketh of this water shall thirst again: But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life. The woman saith unto him, Sir, give me this water, that I thirst not, neither come hither to draw.”
There was a weary, worn-out woman who discovered the WATER of LIFE. Actually, she had her water pot ready to fill it up from a deep well. But it just so happens that Jesus, due to weariness, is sitting on the well. Meanwhile, He strikes up a conversation with her because He knew her great need was to drink of the LIVING WATER that He offers all. Back and forth the dialogue went until He revealed her empty cup and broken life.
Next, as her eyes were opened, her heart was quickened, and her life was changed—all because she tasted of the fountain of living water that flowed from the LOVER of her SOUL! Once her cup was FILLED as she drank the water Jesus offered her, then a RIVER of Life flowed to others whose CUP was FILLED as well.
3. If you are needy, then Jesus will Fill your Cup! (Rev 22:16) – “And the Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.”
What a great INVITATION with a fantastic CELEBRATION! Jesus is offering LIVING WATER to every thirsty soul. Are you thirsty? Drink. Drink, my friend! It is refreshing, invigorating, and exhilarating. Take it in. Give it out.
Conclusion: Now then, FILL my CUP LORD! Give me Living Water. Flow like a River. Quench my thirst. Then pour me out so others can drink from the Fountain that shall never run dry.
Love y’all,
Dr. Randy Reese
04
Apr '25
A Dedicated Disciple Making a Difference
04
Apr '25
Introduction: What kind of “GOOD WORKS” do you have? No. We’re not saved by “Works,” but if we are saved, there should be some “Works” (Eph 2:8-10; James 2:14-26).
Remember the Wendy’s commercial (1984 – Before your time?) – “Where’s the beef?” Well, “Where’s the works?”
Are you “helping” people or “hurting” people? Do you take time to SERVE the Lord? It pays to serve the Lord! Are we wanting to “be” a blessing or wanting to “get” all the blessings? A closer investigation of the life of a “DEDICATED FEMALE DISCIPLE” named Dorcas reveals where her heart was and how her hands and works proved to be a blessing to others.
1. Dorcas was a CHRISTian woman of faith in the God of the Bible and she was “FULL of GOOD WORKS”! (Acts 9:36) – “Now there was at Joppa a certain disciple named Tabitha, which by interpretation is called Dorcas: this woman was full of good works and alms deeds which she did…..all the widows stood by him weeping, and shewing the coats and garments which Dorcas made.”
The word “Disciple” here is mathetria, which means a female disciple. Tabitha, or Dorcas’ name, means gazelle. The word “Alms deed” is the word elehaymosoonay, which means mercy and pity.
• Dorcas recognized needs of others
• Dorcas was used by God to meet those needs
• Dorcas was used by God to meet those needs
2. Dorcas grew SICK, succumbed to her illness, and DIED! (Acts 9:37) – “And it came to pass in those days, that she was sick, and died: whom when they had washed, they laid her in an upper chamber.”
• Our bodies are wearing out (2 Cor 4:16)
• But one day we will have a brand new body (1 Cor 15:35-43)
• But one day we will have a brand new body (1 Cor 15:35-43)
3. Dorcas was RAISED from the dead! (Acts 9:40-42; also 1 Thess 4:13-18; John 14:1-3; Rev 21:1-7) – “But Peter…kneeled down, and prayed….and turning to the body said, Tabitha arise. And she opened her eyes….and sat up.”
• Peter had known about Lazarus, the widow of Nain’s son, and Jarius’ daughter, whom Jesus raised from the dead
• Peter also witnessed the empty tomb and later the resurrected Christ
• Peter also witnessed the empty tomb and later the resurrected Christ
4. Because of Dorcas’ love and faithful service to Jesus, “Many believed in the Lord”! (Acts 9:42) – “Many believed in the Lord.”
• Jesus used her sickness and even death to bring many to faith in Him
• Dorcas was raised like every believer will be at the rapture (1 Thess 4:16, 17)
• Dorcas was raised like every believer will be at the rapture (1 Thess 4:16, 17)
Conclusion: The Holy Spirit of God inspired Luke to record the life and legacy of this DEDICATED DISCIPLE named Dorcas. No telling how many millions of CHRISTians have been motivated by her love for Jesus that was manifested in her GOOD WORKS for other women. She was a “Woman on a Mission Making A Difference”!
You & I can do the same ….all for the Glory of our God!!
Love y’all,
Dr. Randy Reese
Dr. Randy Reese
03
Apr '25
Serving Even in Heaven
03
Apr '25
Introduction: Are you saved? You say… By Grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone. I’ve got a Pastor friend who always ADDS, but we are NEVER ALONE! Now that you are saved from sin’s penalty (Rom 6:23), are you SERVING our Lord Jesus?
Some people tell me they do not need the Church. Unfortunately, that is a gross misunderstanding of God’s intention for every CHRISTian. Paul makes it very clear that once a person has a relationship with Jesus Christ, then he or she should fit in and function within a local assembly of believers called the Church. For instance, writing to followers of Jesus Christ in the Church of Rome, he notes Motivational gifts:
1. Do you know your Spiritual gift(s)? (Rom 12:4-8) – “For as we have many members in one body, and all members have not the same office: So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another. Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whether prophecy, let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith; Or ministry, let us wait on our ministering: or he that teacheth, on teaching; Or he that exhorteth, on exhortation: he that giveth, let him do it with simplicity; he that ruleth, with diligence; he that sheweth mercy, with cheerfulness.”
In other words, the purpose of Jesus forgiving our sins and bringing us into a right relationship with our Heavenly Father is to SERVE Him. In order for this to happen, He gave each believer the Holy Spirit. In turn, the Holy Spirit imparts spiritual gifts. In this passage, these are SERVING gifts meant to be used within the body of Christ, the Church.
2. Did you notice some of these Spiritual gifts? (Rom 12:4-8)
- teaching
- ministering
- administrating
- exhorting
- giving
- showing mercy and compassion
- discerning
- serving
3. How about the Spiritual gifts for the Ministry? (Eph 4:11-13) – “And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ:”
Through the empowerment of the Holy Spirit, servant leaders, Pastors/teachers, and evangelists are placed into the Church to serve the Lord Jesus who is head of the Church.
“Which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places, Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come: And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church, Which is his body, the fulness of him that filleth all in all.” (Eph 1:20,23)
Conclusion: Guess what every CHRISTian will do in heaven, more specifically the New Jerusalem?
“And there shall be no more curse: but the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it; and his servants shall serve him:” (Rev 22:3)
We will continue to SERVE Jesus!
Also please do not forget, we will either be rewarded or suffer loss at the “Judgement Seat of Christ.” This test will determine HOW we used or did not use the gifts given to us by the Holy Spirit. Finally, after studying this subject, it is apparent that we can get a lot of practice right now – with on the job training here on earth!
Love yall,
Dr. Randy Reese
02
Apr '25
Progressive Sanctification
02
Apr '25
Introduction: After salvation, the process of sanctification takes place. Both mentally and spiritually, the Spirit of God is changing us – setting us apart… making us more like Jesus. But how? This devotion will share a few ways this process takes place.
1. The Life changing Power of the Word of God! (Col 3:16) – “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.”
When the Word of God is at home (oikos) in our hearts, it imparts wisdom. Therefore, our hearts need to be fertile ground for the incorruptible seed of the Word of God.
Peter writes, “Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever” (1Pet 1:23).
Heaven and earth will pass away but God’s Word is forever!
2. The Cleansing Power of the Blood of Jesus! (Rom 3:25) – “Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God.”
By faith in the blood of Jesus, our sins are forgiven. And by continual faith in Jesus’ blood, we can stay in fellowship with our Lord.
3. The Filling Power of the Holy Spirit! (Acts 1:8) – “But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.”
The power of the Holy Ghost is the secret element in witnessing. Do you have it? Are you being a witness?
4. The Supernatural Power of Prayer! (Eph 3:20) – “Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us.”
Think about it. Whatever we ask our Lord, He is able to do more. Wow! Makes us want to ask for more!!
Conclusion: God’s will for every believer in Jesus Christ is to be conformed to His image.
“For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren” (Rom 8:29).
He’s the POTTER, we are the CLAY!
Love y’all,
Dr. Randy Reese