Author: NBibens

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When Ezra returned to Jerusalem, one of the major problems that confronted him was the intermarriage of God’s people with foreigners. As Ezra began working with the people to determine a solution, they said, “…the people are many, and it is a time of heavy rain; we cannot stand in the open. Nor is this a task for one day or for two, for we have greatly transgressed in this matter.”^[1] Credit should be given to the people for acknowledging and confessing their error. They also teach us an important lesson—mistakes can take time to correct. 

We want problems resolved immediately. But problems that are big or years in the making are not solved overnight. When it comes to sin, we’re usually dealing with big or long-standing problems. So as we repent, we must be ready for the long steady work of fixing errors and bearing fruits of repentance. And as we help others, we must be patient and gracious. Repentance is a life-long commitment, not a one or two-day task. 

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^[1] Ezra 10:13

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How radical is the gospel? Truthfully, the gospel of Jesus doesn’t seem or feel all that radical or earth-shaking in our current culture. Too often, we practice and preach a watered-down message that neither challenges nor convicts. Perhaps we’re misguided in an attempt to be overly kind and spare feelings. Or maybe we’re ashamed of the gospel. Or, could it be that we’ve bought into a watered-down gospel ourselves, and we don’t know any better?

When Paul preached in Thessalonica, many were converted, but others grew angry. They dragged some Christians before the city authorities and said, “These men who have turned the world upside down have come here also…saying that there is another king, Jesus.” 

What gospel are we preaching? A gospel that requires little, or one that turns the usual order on its head? A message where Jesus is a comforting buddy or a proclamation that Jesus is Lord and King? Has our world been upturned by King Jesus? And what are we doing to proclaim Jesus to the world?

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No one likes to be cheated. Few things are as upsetting and enraging as being lied to, stolen from, or cheated by fraudulent transactions. When dealing with purchases or financial transactions, most of us try to be cautious because there are always people trying to cheat us in one way or another. We should be even more careful to ensure we are not cheated spiritually. 

In Colossians 2:8, the Bible says, “Beware lest anyone cheat you through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men, according to the basic principles of the world, and not according to Christ.”^[1] There are many ideas available to you about how to live life. There are deeply philosophical approaches. There are base and carnal methods. There are various traditions you could choose from. But in the end, if we follow any way other than the way of Jesus, we will find ourselves swindled and cheated in the worst possible way. Only Jesus offers eternal life. Don’t be cheated by anything less. 

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^[1] NKJV

Over the years, various entertainment markets have cashed in on people’s fascination with zombies. Movies, books, and video games galore explore tales and adventures among the living dead. While zombies are nothing more than figments of a creative imagination, the living dead are real! In fact, if we aren’t careful, we might be one of them!

In 1 Timothy 5:5-6, Paul writes, “She who is truly a widow, left all alone, has set her hope on God and continues in supplications and prayers night and day, but she who is self-indulgent is dead even while she lives.” To the church at Sardis, Jesus says in Revelation 3:1, “I know your works. You have the reputation of being alive, but you are dead.” If you’re hearing this message, you are alive physically. The question is, are you alive spiritually? If we are not following Jesus, we are the living dead. We are animated bodies without real, spiritual life.

One of the most recognizable movie lines of all time comes from the 1939 classic The Wizard of Oz, when the wicked witch says to Dorothy, “I’ll get you my pretty, and your little dog too!” It’s a funny but potent line because it displays the witch’s hatred—she despises Dorothy so much that she includes Dorothy’s little, powerless, and insignificant dog in her threats.

Jesus spoke of little dogs but with a much nobler and encouraging perspective. He once challenged a gentile woman who desired a miracle with the simple parable, “It is not good to take the children’s bread and throw it to the little dogs.”[1] The woman reasoned that even little dogs eat crumbs that fall, and Jesus rewarded her faith! Jesus wasn’t degrading that woman or Gentiles. His miracle pointed to a time when all would be welcome to experience His blessing, Jew and Gentile alike. The invitation to be a part of the Lord’s family is open to all—the little dogs like me and you too!

[1] Matthew 15:26-26, NKJV

Many people are fascinated by the idea of aliens. The thought that there are other sentient species in the universe is intriguing. Of course, fascination with aliens isn’t confined to sci-fi novels and movies. Many people take an active interest in learning about the possibility of extraterrestrial life. And there are even those who believe that aliens exist and might already be on Earth and among us!

Well, the truth is, there are aliens among us! But I’m not talking about aliens that come from outer space. In fact, we should be the aliens among others. In Hebrews 11:13, the Bible says of certain faithful men and women of the Old Testament that they “…acknowledged themselves to be strangers and aliens without fixed abode on earth.”[1]God’s faithful people should recognize this world is not our home—we are temporary residents only. Don’t forget who you are and where you’re going. Our real home is in eternity with our Lord and our God.

[1] REB

Around this time of year, many decorations, costumes, and movies incorporate witches. From cute and kid-friendly to creepy and grotesque, witches and Halloween go hand in hand. While there may be some innocent fun to be had, Christians should recognize that actual witchcraft is sinful. In fact, under the Mosaic Law, witchcraft was one of the sins that could incur the death penalty. It was a severe offense.

Thankfully, witchcraft is not common in our part of the world. But we are often plagued by equally dangerous things that may not be taken as seriously. Samuel once told King Saul, “Rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry.”[1] You probably don’t ply the dark arts, and I doubt you bow down to images and idols. But do you rebel against God? Do you stubbornly hold to your ways instead of turning to God’s? Rebellion and stubbornness are no mere hocus-pocus—they are deadly attitudes condemned by God.

[1] 1 Samuel 15:23, NKJV