Good morning,

John Newton was a slave trader, then a slave, and then God change his life forever. The song “Amazing Grace” is Newton’s testimony. God called him to preach, and preach he did.

This week we will read devotionals from John Newton.

A plain book designed for plain people   

(Letters of John Newton)

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“All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness–so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work!” 2 Timothy 3:16-17

“When the Spirit of truth comes–He will guide you into all the truth.” John 16:13

A few minutes of the Spirit’s teaching will furnish us with more real, useful and experimental knowledge–than toiling through whole folios of commentators and expositors! It will be our wisdom to deal less with the streams–and be more close in applying to the fountain-head. The Scripture itself, and the Spirit of God–are the best and the only sufficient expositors of Scripture. Whatever men have valuable in their writings–they got it from Scripture; and the Scripture is as open to us–as to any of them. There is nothing required but a teachable, humble spirit; and academic learning, as it is commonly called, is not necessary in order for this.

Psalm 25:14, “The secret counsel of the LORD is for those who fear Him, and He reveals His covenant to them”–not notionally, but experimentally. We learn more, and more effectually, by one minute’s communication with God through the medium of His written Word, than we could from an assembly of divines, or a library of books!

As a minister, I endeavor to avoid all panaceas, singularities, ‘hidden truths‘ and ‘new discoveries‘ in Scripture. I wish to advance nothing which I cannot maintain upon the authority of the Bible in our English language–which I deem sufficient to make us and our hearers wise unto salvation.

The New Testament is a plain book designed for plain people. The gospel is to be preached to the poor and simple, who are just as capable of receiving it as the educated–and in some sense more so. I therefore lay little stress upon any academic learning–which depends upon a knowledge of original Greek and Hebrew languages, or requires a larger degree of capacity and genius to be understood.

“From a child, you have known the holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus!” 2 Timothy 3:15″Unless our souls are living in communion with God, the Scriptures will not yield us their strength and nourishment!” (R.C. Chapman)

   ~  ~  ~  ~

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

Good morning,

John Newton was a slave trader, then a slave, and then God change his life forever. The song “Amazing Grace” is Newton’s testimony. God called him to preach, and preach he did.

This week we will read devotionals from John Newton.

Is this all I get–after so much trouble?

(Letters of John Newton)

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“Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows.
 But take heart, because I have overcome the world.” John 16:33

Dear Brother,
Blessed be God for the news of a better world, where there will be no sin, trouble, nor defect forever!

What shall it be–when the Lord shall call us up to join with those who are now singing before the eternal throne!

What shall it be–when all the children of God, who in different ages and countries have been scattered abroad; shall be all gathered together, and enter into that glorious and eternal rest provided for them!

What shall it be–when there shall not be one trace of sin or sorrow remaining; not one discordant note to be heard, nothing to disturb or defile, or alleviate the never-ceasing joy!

Many a weary step we have taken, since the Lord first drew us to Himself; but we shall not have to tread the past way over again. Some difficulties may remain, but we know not how few. Perhaps before we are aware, the Lord may cut short our conflict and say, “Come up hither!” At the most, it cannot be very long! He who has been with us thus far, will be with us to the end. He knows how to cause our consolations to exceed our greatest afflictions!

And when we get safely Home, we shall not complain that we have suffered too much along the way. We shall not say, “Is this all I get–after so much trouble?” No! When we awake in that glorious world, we shall in an instant be satisfied with His likeness. One sight of Jesus as He is, will fill our hearts and dry up all our tears!

“I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us!” Romans 8:18

“In Your presence is fullness of joy! In Your right hand there are pleasures forever!” Psalm 16:11

   ~  ~  ~  ~

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

Good morning,

John Newton was a slave trader, then a slave, and then God change his life forever. The song “Amazing Grace” is Newton’s testimony. God called him to preach, and preach he did.

This week we will read devotionals from John Newton.

Like coins from the same mint!

(Letters of John Newton)

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My dear sir,
I could write a long note indeed, upon your very great mistake in considering me as a great man. If we could have a personal interview–I think you would be quickly undeceived! Ah! how different I am, from what perhaps I appear to be to others when in the pulpit.

Your mistake, however, has done me good. A whole quire of invective from an enemy could hardly have given me so keen a sense of shame. The Scriptures assure us that our hearts by nature, like coins from the same mint–are all alike. I hear my fellow-Christians complain of evils similar to what I feel. Otherwise I would have reason to conclude that there could not be one believer upon earth–so inconsistent, so evil, so vile beyond expression, as myself!
 
Ah, dear sir! what would you have thought of me, had you seen me when I lived among the slaves? The sight of me would have been offensive to your eyes, and my vile speech would have struck you with horror! I was miserable and despicable in every view–the common mark of scorn and insult! My whole wretched amusement and pleasure seemed to lie in blaspheming the name and person of Jesus, and in feeding my imagination with schemes of wickedness!

Some of my unhappy companions have perished in their sins, who have just cause to charge the ruin of their souls to my account! For Satan himself, had he been upon earth in a bodily shape–could hardly have been more industrious in tempting to infidelity and profligacy than I was!

There is seldom a day of my life, in which my thoughts are not led back to my former state of estrangement from Him, and that pre-eminence of wretchedness into which my sins plunged me!

Yet, it is of grace that my poor story is not much worse. The Lord is my keeper–therefore I am still preserved.

“By the grace of God–I am what I am!” 1 Corinthians 15:10

I am, dear sir, your affectionate friend and servant,
John Newton, 1778

Amazing grace! How sweet the sound
That saved a wretch like me;
I once was lost, but now am found;
Was blind, but now I see!

Through many dangers, toils, and snares,
I have already come;
Tis grace has brought me safe thus far,
And grace will lead me home!

The earth shall soon dissolve like snow,
The sun forbear to shine;
But God, who called me here below,
Will be forever mine!

 ~  ~  ~  ~

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

Good morning,

John Newton was a slave trader, then a slave, and then God change his life forever. The song “Amazing Grace” is Newton’s testimony. God called him to preach, and preach he did.

This week we will read devotionals from John Newton.

Pains, infirmities, loss of sleep, the failure of sight and hearing!

(Letters of John Newton)

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“Do not cast me away when I am old;
 do not forsake me when my strength is gone.”
    Psalm 71:9

I am drawing nearer and nearer to the season which the Psalmist either expected or felt. Many reasons teach the aged believer the need of this prayer. As his graces are still imperfect–so his powers are feelingly upon the decline. It was but little he could do at his best–and now less and less!
 
 He feels other props and comforts dropping off apace. When he was young, he had warm spirits and pleasing prospects; but now, what a change of the friends in which he once delighted! In some he has found inconstancy–they have forsaken and forgotten him; and others have been successively taken away by death. They have fallen like the leaves in autumn–and now he stands almost a naked trunk. If any yet remain, he is expecting to lose them likewise–unless he is first taken from them.
 
 Old age abates, and gradually destroys the relish of such earthly comforts as might be otherwise enjoyed. Pains, infirmities, loss of sleep, the failure of sight and hearing, and all the senses–are harbingers, like Job’s messengers arriving in close succession, to tell him that death is upon his progress, and is not far away!
 
 If youth has no security against death–then old age has no possibility of escaping the grim monster. But though . . .
   friends fail,
   cisterns burst,
   gourds wither, strength declines,
   and death advances
 ––if God does not forsake me, then all is well.
 
 “Even to your old age and gray hairs–I am He who will sustain you.
  I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you!”
     Isaiah 46:4

 ~  ~  ~  ~

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

Good morning,

John Newton was a slave trader, then a slave, and then God change his life forever. The song “Amazing Grace” is Newton’s testimony. God called him to preach, and preach he did.

This week we will read devotionals from John Newton.

The Lord reigns!

(Letters of John Newton)

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“The Lord reigns! He is robed in majesty! The Lord is robed in majesty and is armed with strength!” Psalm 93:1

“The Lord reigns! Let the nations tremble!” Psalm 99:1

The Lord reigns! He who once bore our sins and carried our sorrows–is seated upon a throne of glory and exercises all power in heaven and on earth! Thrones, principalities and powers bow before Him. Every being and event are under His rule. His providence pervades and manages the whole, and is as minutely attentive to every part–as if there were only that single object in His view.

From the tallest archangel, to the meanest ant or fly–all depend on Him for their being, their preservation and their powers! He directs the sparrows where to build their nests, and to find their food. He overrules the rise and fall of nations; and bends, with an invincible energy and unerring wisdom–all events! So that, while many intend otherwise–in the outcome their designs all concur and coincide in the accomplishment of His holy will. He restrains with a mighty hand the still more formidable efforts of the powers of darkness; and Satan with all his hosts cannot exert their malice a hair’s breadth beyond the limits of His permission. Satan may rage–but he is a chained enemy!

This is He, who is the Redeemer and Husband of His believing people.
How happy are those whom it is His good pleasure to bless!
How safe are those whom He has engaged to protect!
How honored and privileged are those whom He enables and warrants to claim Him as their friend and their portion!
Having redeemed them by His own blood, He sets a high value upon them! He esteems them His treasure, His jewels! He guards them as the pupil of His eye. They shall not lack, and they need not fear!
His eye is upon them in every situation,
His ear is open to their prayers, and
His everlasting arms are under them for their sure support.

On earth, He guides their steps, controls their enemies, and directs all His dispensations for their good! While, in Heaven, He is pleading their cause, preparing a place for them, and communicating down to them reviving foretastes of the glory that shall shortly be theirs!

“The Lord reigns forever, your God, O Zion, for all generations. Praise the Lord!” Psalm 146:10
 ~  ~  ~  ~

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

Good morning,

Jesus’ birth was just the beginning. We often forget that Jesus was a real person, who lived a real life. We look at the Bible accounts and forget that there is a ten year gap between the visitation of the wise men to the account of Jesus as a twelve year boy at the temple. “And it came to pass, that after three days they found him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the doctors, both hearing them, and asking them questions.⁴⁷ And all that heard him were astonished at his understanding and answers.” (Luke 2:46-47) Then another eighteen years till He was baptized by John and began His earthly ministry.

What happens next?

Resurrection

“In the end of the sabbath, as it began to dawn toward the first day of the week, came Mary Magdalene and the other Mary to see the sepulcher.² And, behold, there was a great earthquake: for the angel of the Lord descended from heaven, and came and rolled back the stone from the door, and sat upon it.³ His countenance was like lightning, and his raiment white as snow:⁴ And for fear of him the keepers did shake, and became as dead men.⁵ And the angel answered and said unto the women, Fear not ye: for I know that ye seek Jesus, which was crucified.⁶ He is not here: for he is risen, as he said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay.⁷ And go quickly, and tell his disciples that he is risen from the dead; and, behold, he goeth before you into Galilee; there shall ye see him: lo, I have told you.⁸ And they departed quickly from the sepulcher with fear and great joy; and did run to bring his disciples word.⁹ And as they went to tell his disciples, behold, Jesus met them, saying, All hail. And they came and held him by the feet, and worshipped him.¹⁰ Then said Jesus unto them, Be not afraid: go tell my brethren that they go into Galilee, and there shall they see me. (Matthew 28:1-10) (Mark 16:1-11, Luke 24:1-12, John 20:1-10)

The Bible does not record the actual resurrection so much as it tells of the empty tomb and the news that Jesus had risen. It also speaks of Him appearing to many. We find out that Jesus has risen from the dead when women came to the tomb where he’d been laid to prepare His body for burial. The Gospels each offer different details regarding the account. In short, the tomb was empty, the women were bewildered, and angels announced to them that Jesus had risen. Jesus appeared to them. Peter and John also verified that the tomb was empty, and Jesus appeared to the disciples as well.

Ascension

“So then after the Lord had spoken unto them, he was received up into heaven, and sat on the right hand of God.²⁰ And they went forth, and preached every where, the Lord working with them, and confirming the word with signs following. Amen.” (Mark 16:19-20)

Jesus’ final act on earth was His ascension into heaven in the presence of the disciples. He was taken up in a cloud that hid Him from their view, but two angels came to tell them that He would return one day in a similar manner. For now, Jesus sits at the right hand of His Father in heaven. The act of sitting down signifies that His work is done, as He affirmed before dying on the cross when He said, “It is finished.” There is nothing more to be done to secure the salvation of those who believe in Him. His life on earth is over, the price is paid, the victory is won, and death itself has been defeated. Hallelujah!

“Jesus did many other things as well. If every one of them were written down, I suppose that even the whole world would not have room for the books that would be written” (John 21:25).

(https://www.gotquestions.org/life-of-Christ-3.html)

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

What happens next

The five major milestones in the New Testament narrative of the life of Jesus and his Baptism, Transfiguration, Crucifixion, Resurrection and Ascension.

In the gospels, the ministry of Jesus starts with his Baptism by John the Baptist, when he is about thirty years old. Jesus then begins preaching in Galilee and gathers disciples. After the proclamation of Jesus as Christ, three of the disciples witness his Transfiguration. After the death of John the Baptist and the Transfiguration, Jesus starts his final journey to Jerusalem, having predicted his own death there. Jesus makes a triumphal entry into Jerusalem, and there friction with the Pharisees increases and one of his disciples agrees to betray him for thirty pieces of silver.

Jesus Baptism by John the Baptist

“Then cometh Jesus from Galilee to Jordan unto John, to be baptized of him.¹⁴ But John forbad him, saying, I have need to be baptized of thee, and comest thou to me?¹⁵ And Jesus answering said unto him, Suffer it to be so now: for thus it becometh us to fulfil all righteousness. Then he suffered him.¹⁶ And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him:¹⁷ And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.” (Matthew 3:13-17) (Mark 1:9-11, Luke 2:21-23)

Jesus’ baptism by John the Baptist at the Jordan River is the first act of His public ministry. John’s was a baptism of repentance, and although Jesus did not need such a baptism, He consented to it in order to identify Himself with sinners. In fact, when John balked that Jesus wanted to be baptized by him, saying that it was he, John, who should be baptized by Jesus, Jesus insisted. Jesus said, “It is proper for us to do this to fulfill all righteousness,” so John did as requested (Matthew 3:13-15). In His baptism, Jesus identified with the sinners whose sins He would soon bear on the cross where He would exchange His righteousness for their sin (2 Corinthians 5:21). The baptism of Christ symbolized His death and resurrection, prefigured and lent importance to Christian baptism, and publicly identified Christ with those for whom He would die. In addition, His identity as the long-awaited Messiah was confirmed by God Himself who spoke from heaven: “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased” (Matthew 3:17). Finally, Jesus’ baptism was the scene of the very first appearance of the Trinity to man. The Son was baptized, the Father spoke, and the Holy Spirit descended like a dove. The Father’s command, the Son’s obedience, and the Holy Spirit’s empowerment present a beautiful picture of the ministry and life of Christ.

Transfiguration

“And after six days Jesus taketh Peter, James, and John his brother, and bringeth them up into an high mountain apart,² And was transfigured before them: and his face did shine as the sun, and his raiment was white as the light.³ And, behold, there appeared unto them Moses and Elias talking with him.⁴ Then answered Peter, and said unto Jesus, Lord, it is good for us to be here: if thou wilt, let us make here three tabernacles; one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elias.⁵ While he yet spake, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them: and behold a voice out of the cloud, which said, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; hear ye him.⁶ And when the disciples heard it, they fell on their face, and were sore afraid.⁷ And Jesus came and touched them, and said, Arise, and be not afraid.⁸ And when they had lifted up their eyes, they saw no man, save Jesus only. (Matthew 17:1-8) (Mark 9:2-8, Luke 9:26-36)

Jesus was changed before the eyes of Peter, James, and John into a reflection of His true nature. His divine glory radiated from Him, changing His face and clothing in such a way that the Gospel writers had trouble relating it. Just as the apostle John used many metaphors to describe what he saw in the visions of Revelation, so, too, did Matthew, Mark, and Luke have to resort to images like “lightning,” “the sun” and “light” to describe Jesus’ appearance. Truly, it was otherworldly. The appearance of Moses and Elijah to converse with Jesus shows us two things. First, the two men represent the Law and the Prophets, both of which foretold Jesus’ coming and His death. Second, the fact that they talked about His upcoming death in Jerusalem (Luke 9:31) shows their foreknowledge of these events and the sovereign plan of God that was unfolding just as He had foreordained. God spoke from heaven and commanded the disciples to “Hear Him!” thereby stating that Jesus, not Moses and Elijah, now had the power and authority to command them.

Crucifixion

“And they crucified him, and parted his garments, casting lots: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, They parted my garments among them, and upon my vesture did they cast lots.³⁶ And sitting down they watched him there;³⁷ And set up over his head his accusation written, This Is Jesus The King Of The Jews.³⁸ Then were there two thieves crucified with him, one on the right hand, and another on the left.³⁹ And they that passed by reviled him, wagging their heads,⁴⁰ And saying, Thou that destroyest the temple, and buildest it in three days, save thyself. If thou be the Son of God, come down from the cross.” (Matthew 27:35-40) (Mark 15:16-47, Luke 23:26-56, John 19:17-42)

The death of Jesus on the cross was the culmination of His ministry on earth. It is the reason He was born as a man—to die for the sins of the world so that those who believe in Him would not perish but have everlasting life (John 3:16-18). After being found innocent of all charges against Him, Jesus was nevertheless handed over to the Romans to be crucified. The events of that day are recorded as including His seven last sayings, the mocking and taunting by the soldiers and the crowd, the casting of lots among the soldiers for His clothing, and three hours of darkness. At the moment Jesus gave up His spirit, there was an earthquake, and the huge, heavy curtain separating the Holy of Holies from the rest of the temple was torn from top to bottom, signifying that access to God was now open to all who believe in Jesus. The body of Jesus was taken down from the cross, laid in a borrowed tomb, and left until after the Sabbath.

Resurrection

“In the end of the sabbath, as it began to dawn toward the first day of the week, came Mary Magdalene and the other Mary to see the sepulcher.² And, behold, there was a great earthquake: for the angel of the Lord descended from heaven, and came and rolled back the stone from the door, and sat upon it.³ His countenance was like lightning, and his raiment white as snow:⁴ And for fear of him the keepers did shake, and became as dead men.⁵ And the angel answered and said unto the women, Fear not ye: for I know that ye seek Jesus, which was crucified.⁶ He is not here: for he is risen, as he said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay.⁷ And go quickly, and tell his disciples that he is risen from the dead; and, behold, he goeth before you into Galilee; there shall ye see him: lo, I have told you.⁸ And they departed quickly from the sepulcher with fear and great joy; and did run to bring his disciples word.⁹ And as they went to tell his disciples, behold, Jesus met them, saying, All hail. And they came and held him by the feet and worshipped him.¹⁰ Then said Jesus unto them, Be not afraid: go tell my brethren that they go into Galilee, and there shall they see me. (Matthew 28:1-10) (Mark 16:1-11, Luke 24:1-12, John 20:1-10)

The Bible does not record the actual resurrection so much as it tells of the empty tomb and the news that Jesus had risen. It also speaks of Him appearing to many. We find out that Jesus has risen from the dead when women came to the tomb where he’d been laid to prepare His body for burial. The Gospels each offer different details regarding the account. In short, the tomb was empty, the women were bewildered, and angels announced to them that Jesus had risen. Jesus appeared to them. Peter and John also verified that the tomb was empty, and Jesus appeared to the disciples as well.

Ascension

“So then after the Lord had spoken unto them, he was received up into heaven, and sat on the right hand of God.²⁰ And they went forth, and preached every where, the Lord working with them, and confirming the word with signs following. Amen.” (Mark 16:19-20)

Jesus’ final act on earth was His ascension into heaven in the presence of the disciples. He was taken up in a cloud that hid Him from their view, but two angels came to tell them that He would return one day in a similar manner. For now, Jesus sits at the right hand of His Father in heaven. The act of sitting down signifies that His work is done, as He affirmed before dying on the cross when He said, “It is finished.” There is nothing more to be done to secure the salvation of those who believe in Him. His life on earth is over, the price is paid, the victory is won, and death itself has been defeated. Hallelujah!

“Jesus did many other things as well. If every one of them were written down, I suppose that even the whole world would not have room for the books that would be written” (John 21:25).

(https://www.gotquestions.org/life-of-Christ-3.html)

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

Good morning,

Jesus’ birth was just the beginning. We often forget that Jesus was a real person, who lived a real life. We look at the Bible accounts and forget that there is a ten year gap between the visitation of the wise men to the account of Jesus as a twelve year boy at the temple. “And it came to pass, that after three days they found him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the doctors, both hearing them, and asking them questions.⁴⁷ And all that heard him were astonished at his understanding and answers.” (Luke 2:46-47) Then another eighteen years till He was baptized by John and began His earthly ministry.

What happens next?

Crucifixion

“And they crucified him, and parted his garments, casting lots: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, They parted my garments among them, and upon my vesture did they cast lots.³⁶ And sitting down they watched him there;³⁷ And set up over his head his accusation written, This Is Jesus The King Of The Jews.³⁸ Then were there two thieves crucified with him, one on the right hand, and another on the left.³⁹ And they that passed by reviled him, wagging their heads,⁴⁰ And saying, Thou that destroyest the temple, and buildest it in three days, save thyself. If thou be the Son of God, come down from the cross.” (Matthew 27:35-40) (Mark 15:16-47, Luke 23:26-56, John 19:17-42)

The death of Jesus on the cross was the culmination of His ministry on earth. It is the reason He was born as a man—to die for the sins of the world so that those who believe in Him would not perish but have everlasting life (John 3:16-18). After being found innocent of all charges against Him, Jesus was nevertheless handed over to the Romans to be crucified. The events of that day are recorded as including His seven last sayings, the mocking and taunting by the soldiers and the crowd, the casting of lots among the soldiers for His clothing, and three hours of darkness. At the moment Jesus gave up His spirit, there was an earthquake, and the huge, heavy curtain separating the Holy of Holies from the rest of the temple was torn from top to bottom, signifying that access to God was now open to all who believe in Jesus. The body of Jesus was taken down from the cross, laid in a borrowed tomb, and left until after the Sabbath.

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

Good morning,

Jesus’ birth was just the beginning. We often forget that Jesus was a real person, who lived a real life. We look at the Bible accounts and forget that there is a ten year gap between the visitation of the wise men to the account of Jesus as a twelve year boy at the temple. “And it came to pass, that after three days they found him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the doctors, both hearing them, and asking them questions.⁴⁷ And all that heard him were astonished at his understanding and answers.” (Luke 2:46-47) Then another eighteen years till He was baptized by John and began His earthly ministry.

What happens next

The five major milestones in the New Testament narrative of the life of Jesus are his Baptism, Transfiguration, Crucifixion, Resurrection and Ascension.

In the gospels, the ministry of Jesus starts with his Baptism by John the Baptist, when he is about thirty years old. Jesus then begins preaching in Galilee and gathers disciples. After the proclamation of Jesus as Christ, three of the disciples witness his Transfiguration. After the death of John the Baptist and the Transfiguration, Jesus starts his final journey to Jerusalem, having predicted his own death there. Jesus makes a triumphal entry into Jerusalem, and there friction with the Pharisees increases and one of his disciples agrees to betray him for thirty pieces of silver.

Jesus Baptism by John the Baptist

“Then cometh Jesus from Galilee to Jordan unto John, to be baptized of him.¹⁴ But John forbad him, saying, I have need to be baptized of thee, and comest thou to me?¹⁵ And Jesus answering said unto him, Suffer it to be so now: for thus it becometh us to fulfil all righteousness. Then he suffered him.¹⁶ And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him:¹⁷ And lo a voice from heaven, saying, “This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.” (Matthew 3:13-17) (Mark 1:9-11, Luke 2:21-23)

Jesus’ baptism by John the Baptist at the Jordan River is the first act of His public ministry. John’s was a baptism of repentance, and although Jesus did not need such a baptism, He consented to it in order to identify Himself with sinners. In fact, when John balked that Jesus wanted to be baptized by him, saying that it was he, John, who should be baptized by Jesus, Jesus insisted. Jesus said, “It is proper for us to do this to fulfill all righteousness,” so John did as requested (Matthew 3:13-15). In His baptism, Jesus identified with the sinners whose sins He would soon bear on the cross where He would exchange His righteousness for their sin (2 Corinthians 5:21). The baptism of Christ symbolized His death and resurrection, prefigured and lent importance to Christian baptism, and publicly identified Christ with those for whom He would die. In addition, His identity as the long-awaited Messiah was confirmed by God Himself who spoke from heaven: “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased” (Matthew 3:17). Finally, Jesus’ baptism was the scene of the very first appearance of the Trinity to man. The Son was baptized, the Father spoke, and the Holy Spirit descended like a dove. The Father’s command, the Son’s obedience, and the Holy Spirit’s empowerment present a beautiful picture of the ministry and life of Christ.

Transfiguration

“And after six days Jesus taketh Peter, James, and John his brother, and bringeth them up into an high mountain apart,² And was transfigured before them: and his face did shine as the sun, and his raiment was white as the light.³ And, behold, there appeared unto them Moses and Elias talking with him.⁴ Then answered Peter, and said unto Jesus, Lord, it is good for us to be here: if thou wilt, let us make here three tabernacles; one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elias.⁵ While he yet spake, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them: and behold a voice out of the cloud, which said, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; hear ye him.⁶ And when the disciples heard it, they fell on their face, and were sore afraid.⁷ And Jesus came and touched them, and said, Arise, and be not afraid.⁸ And when they had lifted up their eyes, they saw no man, save Jesus only. (Matthew 17:1-8) (Mark 9:2-8, Luke 9:26-36)

Jesus was changed before the eyes of Peter, James, and John into a reflection of His true nature. His divine glory radiated from Him, changing His face and clothing in such a way that the Gospel writers had trouble relating it. Just as the apostle John used many metaphors to describe what he saw in the visions of Revelation, so, too, did Matthew, Mark, and Luke have to resort to images like “lightning,” “the sun” and “light” to describe Jesus’ appearance. Truly, it was otherworldly. The appearance of Moses and Elijah to converse with Jesus shows us two things. First, the two men represent the Law and the Prophets, both of which foretold Jesus’ coming and His death. Second, the fact that they talked about His upcoming death in Jerusalem (Luke 9:31) shows their foreknowledge of these events and the sovereign plan of God that was unfolding just as He had foreordained. God spoke from heaven and commanded the disciples to “Hear Him!” thereby stating that Jesus, not Moses and Elijah, now had the power and authority to command them.

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

Good morning,

Christmas is Saturday, December 25. This week we will look at the birth of Christ and the praise of the heavenly host, shepherds, Simeon, and Anna.

From the very beginning it is a supernatural story. Only God could have arranged all the details to make it happen. But happen it did.

THE BIRTH

Luke 2:1-7

And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be taxed.² (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.)³ And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city.⁴ And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:)⁵ To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.⁶ And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered.⁷ And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.

Matthew 1:18-25, 2:1

Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost.¹⁹ Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her a public example, was minded to put her away privily.²⁰ But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost.²¹ And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name Jesus: for he shall save his people from their sins.²² Now all this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying,²³ Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.²⁴ Then Joseph being raised from sleep did as the angel of the Lord had bidden him, and took unto him his wife:²⁵ And knew her not till she had brought forth her firstborn son: and he called his name Jesus. Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judaea…

Jesus is born just as the announcements prophesied. Virgin born, born in Bethlehem, laid in a manger, alone. From the perspective of man, this was all logical. Mary and Joseph were poor, from a non-descript village, questionable parents, among thousands of other pilgrims coming in for the taxation. Why would anyone care about them? They were not alone. And this baby was destined to change the world!

Jesus birth also pictured His life. The swaddling clothes picture His death. The manger pictures His ministry where He had no place to lay His head. The travel Jesus parents made was indicative of His ministry of preaching from city to city.

God had a plan. The babe in the manger is the Savior of the world and more importantly of you and I. Do you know Him? If not, today would be a perfect time to repent of your sins and by faith accept Jesus offer of salvation.

THE PRAISE OF THE HEAVENLY HOST, SHEPHERDS, SIMEON, AND ANNA

Luke 2:13-14 The Heavenly Host

 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, ¹⁴ Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.

Luke 2:15-20 The Shepherds

And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us.¹⁶ And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger.¹⁷ And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child.¹⁸ And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds.¹⁹ But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart.²⁰ And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them.

Luke 2:25-32 Simeon’s Praise

And, behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and the same man was just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel: and the Holy Ghost was upon him.²⁶ And it was revealed unto him by the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord’s Christ.²⁷ And he came by the Spirit into the temple: and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him after the custom of the law,²⁸ Then took he him up in his arms, and blessed God, and said,²⁹ Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy word:³⁰ For mine eyes have seen thy salvation,³¹ Which thou hast prepared before the face of all people;³² A light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel.

Luke 2:36-38 Anna’s Thanksgiving  

And there was one Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher: she was of a great age, and had lived with an husband seven years from her virginity;³⁷ And she was a widow of about fourscore and four years, which departed not from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day.³⁸ And she coming in that instant gave thanks likewise unto the Lord, and spake of him to all them that looked for redemption in Jerusalem.

God made His first revelation of Jesus to the lowliest class of people, the shepherds. The message of salvation was for all people. They went and told others of what they had seen and heard.

Simeon waited patiently for the coming of the Lord. He was promised he would not see death till he saw Jesus.  The Holy Spirit reveals Jesus to him and he rejoices and praises God.

Anna, a widow for 84 years, who served God faithfully in the temple, sees Jesus and gives thanks.

What does the birth of Christ mean to you? Is it a time of rejoicing, praise, and worship, or an excuse to party, buy gifts, and take a day off of work? It is an important question. If Jesus birth, life, death, and resurrection mean nothing or very little to you, you might want to consider your salvation.

Salvation is not just naming Christ, but living as He would have lived. His character, empathy, love, grace, should be qualities we should see in fellow believers. We should be students of the Bible for knowledge and for practical everyday living. The Bible is our guidebook on how to live life. The answers to all life’s questions are answered in God’s Holy Word.

May this Christmas be a time of reflection, renewal, encouragement, and understanding of the real meaning of Christmas. Your eternity is wrapped up in the babe in the manger.

Have a blessed Christmas.

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