Archives for February 2022

Good morning,

This week we will look at love from God’s perspective.

Valentine’s day promotes the love between couples. It is relational and centered on the world’s system of love. Sometimes physical, sexual, and immoral. Gifts, flowers, candy, are all given to the one we love.

God’s love is different.

God is love. He demonstrates His love. He gives His love. He shows us examples of love. He explains that His love is opened to all. He defines love.

Join us this week as we explore the God of love.

1) God is Love

I John 4:8 He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love.

Romans 5:8 But God commendeth (demonstrated) his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.

John 3:16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

HOW AND WHO GOD LOVES

Gen 1 In the beginning God

Gen 2 Made he a woman, and brought her unto the man.

Gen 3 Unto Adam also and to his wife did the LORD God make coats of skins, and clothed them.

Gen 37-50 Joseph In all Joseph’s adversity, God loved him and cared for him

Exodus God loved his children Israel and provided a way of escape from the Egyptians

Judges 2,6 Rahab was a harlot but God loved her and saved her and her family

Ruth Ruth was a Moabite

2 Sam 11 David had a man killed

1 Kings 11 Solomon disobeyed God

Acts 9 Saul, persecutor of the church on the road to Emmaus

2) How do we respond to God’s love?

John 14:15 If ye love me, keep my commandments.

I John 4:19 We love him, because he first loved us.

I John 5:3 For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous.

Genesis 3 is the darkest chapter in God’s word. Adam and Eve, created by, and in the image of, God, chose to rebel against God. They disobeyed God’s one and only command. They were deceived by the devil. Sin enters into the world. All future wickedness comes from that one act of disobedience.

God could have destroyed them. He did not. A blood sacrifice was made for the young couple. Naked, God gave them clothes to wear, then cast them out of the Garden of Eden. All mankind are their descendants.

God’s love extends to all people willing to come to God with a broken and contrite heart. Understanding that God sent Jesus to pay the sin debt we owed, that we could not pay. Jesus went to the cross, was crucified, died, was buried, and on the third day was resurrected from the dead.

“For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: ⁹ Not of works, lest any man should boast.” (Ephesians 2:8-9)

That is God’s love for His creation. Trust Christ today and begin to experience God’s love.

Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com

Good morning,

This week we conclude our study of the Sermon on the Mount. In chapter 7, Jesus continues teaching His disciple about judging others, the golden rule, entering in at the strait gate, false prophets, false believers, solid foundation, and His ability to teach with authority.

The two foundations (24-27)

Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock:²⁵ And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock.²⁶ And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand:²⁷ And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it.

“Jesus’ sermon concludes with an illustration emphasizing the difference between merely hearing Jesus’ teaching and fully living by it. Those who apply His words are like a wise man who built a house on a rock. Those who don’t are like a foolish man who built a house on sand. When both houses are hit by the same storm, the house on the rock will stand while the house on the sand falls hard. Life brings challenges to all people. The foundations of life, faith, and belief will be tested by those experiences. Only those with faith grounded in something true—which is Christ alone (Acts 4:12)—will endure those storms intact (Matthew 7:24–27).” (BibleRef.com/Matthew/7/Matthew-chapter-7.htm)

Where are we grounded? In Jesus and His word? Or in the wisdom of this world.

Choose Jesus!

Jesus taught with authority (28-29)

And it came to pass, when Jesus had ended these sayings, the people were astonished at his doctrine: ²⁹ For he taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes.

“The crowds were astonished by Jesus’ teaching because He taught with authority. Rather than speaking in half-measures, or referring to the wisdom of others, Christ speaks as One who absolutely knows the truth, first-hand. Not only is the character of Jesus’ life different from that of Israel’s religious leaders (Matthew 5:20), both the style and substance of His teaching are unique, as well (Matthew 7:28–29).” (BibleRef.com/Matthew/7/Matthew-chapter-7.htm)

Are we astonished by Jesus teachings? Will we take and put into practice the things we have learned from our study of the Sermon on the Mount? If so, it will change our lives.

Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com

Good morning,

This week we conclude our study of the Sermon on the Mount. In chapter 7, Jesus continues teaching His disciple about judging others, the golden rule, entering in at the strait gate, false prophets, false believers, solid foundation, and His ability to teach with authority.

I never knew you (21-23)

Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. ²² Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? ²³ And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.

“Having warned His listeners to beware of false prophets, Jesus made it clear that it’s possible for other people to “put on” a show of faith and fool us. Christians should be aware of false leaders, and other people who claim to represent God when they do not (Matthew 7:15–20). Here, He offers the other side of this two-part alert: beware of false followers. Specifically, Christ is warning those who hear Him not to fool themselves into thinking they are true believers, when in fact they are not.

Jesus declares that not everyone who refers to Him as “Lord” will enter the kingdom of heaven. The title of “Lord” implies a master, a leader, and someone to whom the speaker submits. In prior teaching, Jesus indicated that mere words and actions are not enough—they must be motivated by sincerity and truth (Matthew 6:1, 5, 16). In that same way, Jesus states in no uncertain terms that merely referring to Him as Lord is not enough. Neither are acts of supposed righteousness. Entrance to the kingdom of heaven is limited to those who truly, fully do the will of His Father in heaven (2 Corinthians 13:5). That starts with sincere faith in Christ (John 6:28–29) and extends to humility in how we live our lives (John 14:15).

For the first time in this sermon, Jesus refers to God as “my Father.” Jesus Himself did the will of His Father in heaven. Those who truly follow Him will do the same.” (BibleRef.com/Matthew/7/Matthew-7-21.htm)

When talking to someone, ask them how they received Christ. Most times that will indicate the state of their salvation. If they refuse to answer, they probably have no salvation testimony to give. Be wary.

Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com

Sermon on the Mount

Chapter 7

Judge not (1-11)

Judge not, that ye be not judged.² For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again.³ And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother’s eye, but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye?⁴ Or how wilt thou say to thy brother, Let me pull out the mote out of thine eye; and, behold, a beam is in thine own eye?⁵ Thou hypocrite, first cast out the beam out of thine own eye; and then shalt thou see clearly to cast out the mote out of thy brother’s eye.⁶ Give not that which is holy unto the dogs, neither cast ye your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn again and rend you.⁷ Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you:⁸ For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.⁹ Or what man is there of you, whom if his son ask bread, will he give him a stone?¹⁰ Or if he ask a fish, will he give him a serpent?¹¹ If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask him?

“In Matthew 7, we come to how these acts of righteousness apply to how, as a child of the King, we treat other children of the King. Jesus warns us first not to judge each other (7:1). Often misunderstood, this instruction means we are not to condemn another’s inward motive, because we don’t know why someone acted as they did. When you judge harshly, you will be known by your critical attitude. Instead, Jesus said, “Consider your own faults. Don’t judge that piece of sawdust in your brother’s eye, when you’ve got a whole log in your own. You’re in no position to do that” (7:2-5). The warning is good: Be careful of harsh judgment. But then Jesus clarifies the way we are to discern other’s motives and character—by their fruits (7:16). By the results of their lives. Someone has aptly said we’re not to be a judge, but a fruit inspector. Look at their lives and it will be clear whether a Christian is producing fruit or not. Jesus also calls us to be discerning of how to entrust spiritual things to others. He shows us what to judge (comparing foolish people to dogs and pigs). It won’t do any good to talk to certain people. You’re wasting your time. How do you determine when to judge and not to judge? Jesus’ answer is to ask for the Father’s help. Ask, seek, and knock. This counsel is helpful in other situations, but this is the first application. When you meet a person, ask God to show you how to act. Some people will need your help, and you can help them. But you’d be wise to let others be. Make it a matter of prayer. God wants to help you.” (Through the Bible, Matthew Bible Companion, pgs. 38-39)

The golden rule (12)

Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets.

“Jesus concludes this section with what some have called the golden rule, “whatever you want men to do to you, do also to them” (7:12). This is a great principle to operate with, but remember it’s part of a more complete package.” (Through the Bible, Matthew Bible Companion, pgs. 38-39)

The strait gate (13-14)

Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: ¹⁴ Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.

“Finally, Jesus compares our path to eternity to, first, two roads and then to two buildings. First, He describes two ways—a wide way and a narrow way. Think of a funnel. You enter the funnel at the broad way, but it keeps narrowing down until you come to death and destruction and hell. On the other road you begin at the narrow part, and that’s where Jesus Christ is. He’s the Way, the Truth, and the Light. When you enter through Him you have life, even “more abundantly” (John 10:10). The more you walk with Him, the wider it gets. When you are a child of God, life gets better every day.” (Through the Bible, Matthew Bible Companion, pgs. 38-39)

False prophets (15-20)

Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.¹⁶ Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles?¹⁷ Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit.¹⁸ A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit.¹⁹ Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire.²⁰ Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.

“Jesus then warns us of false teachers—but look at the fruit of their lives, He says. The kind of people who heed what Jesus says are like wise men who build their house on a rock foundation that withstands all weather. When you come to Jesus Christ and rest in Him, you can build a life of fruitfulness. If you build a house based on your human goodness and effort, that’s like building on sand. You need something better than what you have to offer. The fruit that endures is produced by the Holy Spirit.” (Through the Bible, Matthew Bible Companion, pgs. 38-39)

I never knew you (21-23)

Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. ²² Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? ²³ And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.

“Having warned His listeners to beware of false prophets, Jesus made it clear that it’s possible for other people to “put on” a show of faith and fool us. Christians should be aware of false leaders, and other people who claim to represent God when they do not (Matthew 7:15–20). Here, He offers the other side of this two-part alert: beware of false followers. Specifically, Christ is warning those who hear Him not to fool themselves into thinking they are true believers, when in fact they are not.

Jesus declares that not everyone who refers to Him as “Lord” will enter the kingdom of heaven. The title of “Lord” implies a master, a leader, and someone to whom the speaker submits. In prior teaching, Jesus indicated that mere words and actions are not enough—they must be motivated by sincerity and truth (Matthew 6:1, 5, 16). In that same way, Jesus states in no uncertain terms that merely referring to Him as Lord is not enough. Neither are acts of supposed righteousness. Entrance to the kingdom of heaven is limited to those who truly, fully do the will of His Father in heaven (2 Corinthians 13:5). That starts with sincere faith in Christ (John 6:28–29) and extends to humility in how we live our lives (John 14:15).

For the first time in this sermon, Jesus refers to God as “my Father.” Jesus Himself did the will of His Father in heaven. Those who truly follow Him will do the same.” (BibleRef.com/Matthew/7/Matthew-7-21.htm)

The two foundations (24-27)

Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock:²⁵ And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock.²⁶ And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand:²⁷ And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it.

“Jesus’ sermon concludes with an illustration emphasizing the difference between merely hearing Jesus’ teaching and fully living by it. Those who apply His words are like a wise man who built a house on a rock. Those who don’t are like a foolish man who built a house on sand. When both houses are hit by the same storm, the house on the rock will stand while the house on the sand falls hard. Life brings challenges to all people. The foundations of life, faith, and belief will be tested by those experiences. Only those with faith grounded in something true—which is Christ alone (Acts 4:12)—will endure those storms intact (Matthew 7:24–27).” (BibleRef.com/Matthew/7/Matthew-chapter-7.htm)

Jesus taught with authority (28-29)

And it came to pass, when Jesus had ended these sayings, the people were astonished at his doctrine: ²⁹ For he taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes.

“The crowds were astonished by Jesus’ teaching because He taught with authority. Rather than speaking in half-measures, or referring to the wisdom of others, Christ speaks as One who absolutely knows the truth, first-hand. Not only is the character of Jesus’ life different from that of Israel’s religious leaders (Matthew 5:20), both the style and substance of His teaching are unique, as well (Matthew 7:28–29).” (BibleRef.com/Matthew/7/Matthew-chapter-7.htm)

Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com

Good morning,

This week we conclude our study of the Sermon on the Mount. In chapter 7, Jesus continues teaching His disciple about judging others, the golden rule, entering in at the strait gate, false prophets, false believers, solid foundation, and His ability to teach with authority.

The golden rule (12)

Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets.

“Jesus concludes this section with what some have called the golden rule, “whatever you want men to do to you, do also to them” (7:12). This is a great principle to operate with, but remember it’s part of a more complete package.” (Through the Bible, Matthew Bible Companion, pgs. 38-39)

The strait gate (13-14)

Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: ¹⁴ Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.

“Finally, Jesus compares our path to eternity to, first, two roads and then to two buildings. First, He describes two ways—a wide way and a narrow way. Think of a funnel. You enter the funnel at the broad way, but it keeps narrowing down until you come to death and destruction and hell. On the other road you begin at the narrow part, and that’s where Jesus Christ is. He’s the Way, the Truth, and the Light. When you enter through Him you have life, even “more abundantly” (John 10:10). The more you walk with Him, the wider it gets. When you are a child of God, life gets better every day.” (Through the Bible, Matthew Bible Companion, pgs. 38-39)

False prophets (15-20)

Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.¹⁶ Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles?¹⁷ Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit.¹⁸ A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit.¹⁹ Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire.²⁰ Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.

“Jesus then warns us of false teachers—but look at the fruit of their lives, He says. The kind of people who heed what Jesus says are like wise men who build their house on a rock foundation that withstands all weather. When you come to Jesus Christ and rest in Him, you can build a life of fruitfulness. If you build a house based on your human goodness and effort, that’s like building on sand. You need something better than what you have to offer. The fruit that endures is produced by the Holy Spirit.” (Through the Bible, Matthew Bible Companion, pgs. 38-39)

We are warned throughout the Bible to be aware of false teachers. As we will see tomorrow, they can seem to be real Christians. So we have to be able to discern between what is true and what is not.

Go back to last week’s lesson. Remember all those folks who were in it for themselves. Jesus called them hypocrites. That is one indication that one may not be a true Christian. Do what they correctly teach God’s word? Do they even teach God’s word?

Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com

Good morning,

This week we conclude our study of the Sermon on the Mount. In chapter 7, Jesus continues teaching His disciple about judging others, the golden rule, entering in at the strait gate, false prophets, false believers, solid foundation, and His ability to teach with authority.

Judge not (1-11)

Judge not, that ye be not judged.² For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again.³ And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother’s eye, but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye?⁴ Or how wilt thou say to thy brother, Let me pull out the mote out of thine eye; and, behold, a beam is in thine own eye?⁵ Thou hypocrite, first cast out the beam out of thine own eye; and then shalt thou see clearly to cast out the mote out of thy brother’s eye.⁶ Give not that which is holy unto the dogs, neither cast ye your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn again and rend you.⁷ Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you:⁸ For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.⁹ Or what man is there of you, whom if his son ask bread, will he give him a stone?¹⁰ Or if he ask a fish, will he give him a serpent?¹¹ If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask him?

“In Matthew 7, we come to how these acts of righteousness apply to how, as a child of the King, we treat other children of the King. Jesus warns us first not to judge each other (7:1). Often misunderstood, this instruction means we are not to condemn another’s inward motive, because we don’t know why someone acted as they did. When you judge harshly, you will be known by your critical attitude. Instead, Jesus said, “Consider your own faults. Don’t judge that piece of sawdust in your brother’s eye, when you’ve got a whole log in your own. You’re in no position to do that” (7:2-5). The warning is good: Be careful of harsh judgment. But then Jesus clarifies the way we are to discern other’s motives and character—by their fruits (7:16). By the results of their lives. Someone has aptly said we’re not to be a judge, but a fruit inspector. Look at their lives and it will be clear whether a Christian is producing fruit or not. Jesus also calls us to be discerning of how to entrust spiritual things to others. He shows us what to judge (comparing foolish people to dogs and pigs). It won’t do any good to talk to certain people. You’re wasting your time. How do you determine when to judge and not to judge? Jesus’ answer is to ask for the Father’s help. Ask, seek, and knock. This counsel is helpful in other situations, but this is the first application. When you meet a person, ask God to show you how to act. Some people will need your help, and you can help them. But you’d be wise to let others be. Make it a matter of prayer. God wants to help you.” (Through the Bible, Matthew Bible Companion, pgs. 38-39)

Our challenge is to have Godly discernment. On what basis do we judge others? Is it on the basis of our own circumstances? Do we take time to talk with the other person and try to understand their perspective? Do we condemn others, while we ourselves are doing the same thing?

The basis for all decisions in life is the Word of God, the Bible. When a situation comes up, we must see what Scripture has to say. We must seek God’s leading. We must pray for God’s wisdom. God does not want us to judge, but seek His wisdom.

When we do these things, we will not be judging others. We will love, confront, share God’s word, and be reconciled.

Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com

Good morning,

This week we will learn more from Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount. Matthew 6 speaks of the hypocrisy of Israel’s religious leaders in giving, prayer, and fasting. Then Jesus teaches us about investing in the future. Finally, Jesus reminds us that He will meet all our needs.

Trusting one master (24-34)

²⁴ No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.²⁵ Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment? ²⁶ Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they? ²⁷ Which of you by taking thought can add one cubit unto his stature? ²⁸ And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin: ²⁹ And yet I say unto you, That even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.³⁰ Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which today is, and tomorrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith? ³¹ Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? ³² (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things.³³ But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.³⁴ Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.

“If I give to God, who will take care of me? God will. Jesus points our attention to the birds. The little birds trust God to take care of them, and we ought to do that, too. Sure, we should exercise judgment, but Jesus said don’t live in such a way that provisions like food and dress and housing are a burden on us. Our Lord said, “Just look at the flower. Look what God does for it” (6:28-29). As God takes care of the flowers and the birds, He takes care of you. Just as He did yesterday, He’ll do today and tomorrow. Put Him first and let Him care for you.” (Through the Bible, Matthew Bible Companion, pgs. 36-37)

When we came to Christ for salvation, we came to Him broken and in need of a Savior. When He redeemed us, He pledged to meet all our needs. ”But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:19)

Do we believe this? If so, we need to live by faith, trusting that our God will take care of us.

Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com

Good morning,

This week we will learn more from Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount. Matthew 6 speaks of the hypocrisy of Israel’s religious leaders in giving, prayer, and fasting. Then Jesus teaches us about investing in the future. Finally, Jesus reminds us that He will meet all our needs.

Treasures in heaven (19-21)

¹⁹ Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal:²⁰ But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal:²¹ For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.

“Some people doubt money is a spiritual topic, but Jesus talks a lot about it. He says your “treasure” can be gathered up in heaven. You can do that by putting it in the Lord’s work. Don’t just give to anything—investigate how your treasure will be used. Make sure you’re giving to something that’s going with you to heaven. You’ll think more about heaven that way, too.” (Through the Bible, Matthew Bible Companion, pgs. 36-37)

The light of the body (22-23)

²² The light of the body is the eye: if therefore thine eye be single, thy whole body shall be full of light.²³ But if thine eye be evil, thy whole body shall be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in thee be darkness, how great is that darkness!

The ultimate financial planner is God. His plan is to invest in heavenly things. What might that entail? Pastors, lay people, missionaries, who are leading others to Christ. What else goes to heaven? Nothing!

Second Peter 3:10-12, states, “But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up.¹¹ Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness,¹² Looking for and hasting unto the coming of the day of God, wherein the heavens being on fire shall be dissolved, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat?”

None of our things go to heaven. The only things that go to heaven are those who have trusted Jesus Christ as their personal Lord and Savior. Those who are saved.

So the best investment we can make is in the lives of people.

Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com

Good morning,

This week we will learn more from Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount. Matthew 6 speaks of the hypocrisy of Israel’s religious leaders in giving, prayer, and fasting. Then Jesus teaches us about investing in the future. Finally, Jesus reminds us that He will meet all our needs.

Matthew 6

Sermon on the Mount

Jesus’ teaching on almsgiving (1-4)

Take heed that ye do not your alms before men, to be seen of them: otherwise ye have no reward of your Father which is in heaven.² Therefore when thou doest thine alms, do not sound a trumpet before thee, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.³ But when thou doest alms, let not thy left hand know what thy right hand doeth:⁴ That thine alms may be in secret: and thy Father which seeth in secret himself shall reward thee openly.

“Your giving is between you and God, and you should not give in order to be noticed by people. The minute you get a third party involved, then you don’t get any credit for it at all. The Lord describes a scene in a crowded synagogue where a hypocrite drops his gift to the poor in the offering and then blows a trumpet to announce their gift. “They have their reward,” Jesus said (6:2). They were after the applause of men, and they got it. Their generosity wasn’t between them and God and is worth nothing before God. Instead, Jesus said, do your giving in secret. The Father sees it and will reward openly.” (Through the Bible, Matthew Bible Companion, pgs. 36-37)

Another term for alms or almsgiving is charitable works. If our motive is to be seen by man, we lose our reward from God. Our motive should always be to glorify God.

Is that our goal? This week try to be a blessing to others. Without them knowing. It will be a double blessing. The person will receive a blessing and we will receive God’s blessing.

Jesus’ teaching on prayer (5-15)

⁵ And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites are: for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.⁶ But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly.⁷ But when ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking.⁸ Be not ye therefore like unto them: for your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him.⁹ After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.¹⁰ Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.¹¹ Give us this day our daily bread.¹² And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.¹³ And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.¹⁴ For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: ¹⁵ But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.

“Some of the same principles apply when you pray. Don’t do it so others will see and praise you. Jesus called those who prayed in public hypocrites. In Jesus’ day, the men wore prayer shawls when they prayed. Some men wore them all the time. Jesus says if they boast like that, they have their reward. They may get other’s praise, but their own prayers aren’t answered. Their fancy words never get above the rafters.

Look closely at Jesus’ sermon and you’ll see something revolutionary. He uses the term “Father.” (See John 1:12 to learn how to be a child of God.) In the Old Testament, people never called God, “Father.” No one had a personal relationship with God like a son and a father. Jesus describes a brand-new relationship people can have with God.

The mark of genuine prayer is sincerity. You go in and close the door; it’s between you and the Lord. Then simplicity: You don’t need to keep repeating. Just get right down to the point. Tell the Lord what’s on your mind. Ask Him for help. He hears you. In fact, before you even ask, He already knows what you need, but we’re to ask Him anyway.

Then Jesus gives us a sample of how to pray. It’s called “the Lord’s prayer.” Now this is not our Lord’s own prayer, you can read that in John 17. His relationship to God is different from ours. We can call Him “Father” when we come to Him through faith in Christ; Jesus called Him “Father” because of His place in the Godhead. Jesus carefully used the terms “My Father” and “your Father,” never “our Father.” Also, Luke records, “Forgive us our sins” (Luke 11:4). The Lord Jesus had no sins to confess. He was the sinless One (John 8:46). So strictly speaking, this example Jesus gives us should be called, “The Disciples’ Prayer,” and it is a wonderful model prayer.

• Jesus instructs us to pray so God’s kingdom can come.

• He tells us to be dependent on God for our daily needs.

• He prompts us to ask forgiveness for our sins.

• He guides us in asking for help when we’re tempted to sin; “Don’t leave us in the testing.” This is a marvelous prayer for us to learn how to pray. We can begin with these words until we learn to pray with our own words.” (Through the Bible, Matthew Bible Companion, pgs. 36-37)

Jesus’ teaching on fasting (16-18)

¹⁶ Moreover when ye fast, be not, as the hypocrites, of a sad countenance: for they disfigure their faces, that they may appear unto men to fast. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.¹⁷ But thou, when thou fastest, anoint thine head, and wash thy face; ¹⁸ That thou appear not unto men to fast, but unto thy Father which is in secret: and thy Father, which seeth in secret, shall reward thee openly.

“Some of the same principles we’ve learned about giving and praying now apply to fasting. If you’re going to fast, don’t tell anybody about it, but do it on your own. There’s value in fasting when you do it between you and God.” (Through the Bible, Matthew Bible Companion, pgs. 36-37)

Jesus instructs us to give, pray, and fast. Not to be seen by men, but to be in fellowship with God. When we obey God’s commands, we honor Him. When we honor Him, we draw closer to Him. When we draw closer to Him, we become more like Him. When we become more like him, we are blessed!

Seeking God’s blessing? Obey, honor, draw closer to and become more like Jesus.

Treasures in heaven (19-21)

¹⁹ Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal:²⁰ But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal:²¹ For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.

“Some people doubt money is a spiritual topic, but Jesus talks a lot about it. He says your “treasure” can be gathered up in heaven. You can do that by putting it in the Lord’s work. Don’t just give to anything—investigate how your treasure will be used. Make sure you’re giving to something that’s going with you to heaven. You’ll think more about heaven that way, too.” (Through the Bible, Matthew Bible Companion, pgs. 36-37)

The light of the body (22-23)

²² The light of the body is the eye: if therefore thine eye be single, thy whole body shall be full of light.²³ But if thine eye be evil, thy whole body shall be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in thee be darkness, how great is that darkness!

The ultimate financial planner is God. His plan is to invest in heavenly things. What might that entail? Pastors, lay people, missionaries, who are leading others to Christ. What else goes to heaven? Nothing!

Second Peter 3:10-12, states, “But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up.¹¹ Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness,¹² Looking for and hasting unto the coming of the day of God, wherein the heavens being on fire shall be dissolved, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat?”

None of our things go to heaven. The only things that go to heaven are those who have trusted Jesus Christ as their personal Lord and Savior. Those who are saved.

So the best investment we can make is in the lives of people.

Trusting one master (24-34)

²⁴ No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.²⁵ Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment? ²⁶ Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they? ²⁷ Which of you by taking thought can add one cubit unto his stature? ²⁸ And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin: ²⁹ And yet I say unto you, That even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.³⁰ Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which today is, and tomorrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith? ³¹ Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? ³² (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things.³³ But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.³⁴ Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.

“If I give to God, who will take care of me? God will. Jesus points our attention to the birds. The little birds trust God to take care of them, and we ought to do that, too. Sure, we should exercise judgment, but Jesus said don’t live in such a way that provisions like food and dress and housing are a burden on us. Our Lord said, “Just look at the flower. Look what God does for it” (6:28-29). As God takes care of the flowers and the birds, He takes care of you. Just as He did yesterday, He’ll do today and tomorrow. Put Him first and let Him care for you.” (Through the Bible, Matthew Bible Companion, pgs. 36-37)

When we came to Christ for salvation, we came to Him broken and in need of a Savior. When He redeemed us, He pledged to meet all our needs. ”But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:19)

Do we believe this? If so, we need to live by faith, trusting that our God will take care of us.

Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com