Today please be in prayer for
Chaplain, The University of Kansas Hospital
Kansas City District
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Leawood UMC
Kansas City District
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Prairie Village: Asbury UMC
Kansas City District
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The Great Plains Annual Conference of The United Methoidist Church Daily Devotional for Sunday, 17 May 2015
Today please be in prayer for
Kansas City: Bristol Hill UMC
Kansas City District
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Chaplain, Children's Mercy Hospital
Kansas City District
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Gardner: FirstLight
Kansas City District
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This Week's Lectionary
7th Sunday of Easter – White or Gold
Ascension Sunday
Acts 1:15-17, 21-26
Psalm 1
1 John 5:9-13
John 17:6-19
Scripture Texts:
Acts 1:15 During this period, when the group of believers numbered about 120, Kefa stood up and addressed his fellow-believers: 16 “Brothers, the Ruach HaKodesh spoke in advance through David about Y’hudah, and these words of the Tanakh had to be fulfilled. He was guide for those who arrested Yeshua — 17 he was one of us and had been assigned a part in our work.”
21 Therefore, one of the men who have been with us continuously throughout the time the Lord Yeshua traveled around among us, 22 from the time Yochanan was immersing people until the day Yeshua was taken up from us — one of these must become a witness with us to his resurrection.”
23 They nominated two men — Yosef Bar-Sabba, surnamed Justus, and Mattityahu. 24 Then they prayed, “Lord, you know everyone’s heart. Show us which of these two you have chosen 25 to take over the work and the office of emissary that Y’hudah abandoned to go where he belongs.” 26 Then they drew lots to decide between the two, and the lot fell to Mattityahu. So he was added to the eleven emissaries.
Psalm 1:1 How blessed are those
who reject the advice of the wicked,
don’t stand on the way of sinners
or sit where scoffers sit!
2 Their delight
is in Adonai’s Torah;
on his Torah they meditate
day and night.
3 They are like trees planted by streams —
they bear their fruit in season,
their leaves never wither,
everything they do succeeds.
4 Not so the wicked,
who are like chaff driven by the wind.
5 For this reason the wicked
won’t stand up to the judgment,
nor will sinners
at the gathering of the righteous.
6 For Adonai watches over
the way of the righteous,
but the way of the wicked
is doomed.
1 John 5:9 If we accept human witness, God’s witness is stronger, because it is the witness which God has given about his Son. 10 Those who keep trusting in the Son of God have this witness in them. Those who do not keep trusting God have made him out to be a liar, because they have not trusted in the witness which God has given about his Son. 11 And this is the witness: God has given us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. 12 Those who have the Son have the life; those who do not have the Son of God do not have the life. 13 I have written you these things so that you may know that you have eternal life — you who keep trusting in the person and power of the Son of God.
John 17:6 “I made your name known to the people you gave me out of the world. They were yours, you gave them to me, and they have kept your word. 7 Now they know that everything you have given me is from you, 8 because the words you gave me I have given to them, and they have received them. They have really come to know that I came from you, and they have come to trust that you sent me.
9 “I am praying for them. I am not praying for the world, but for those you have given to me, because they are yours. 10 Indeed, all I have is yours, and all you have is mine, and in them I have been glorified. 11 Now I am no longer in the world. They are in the world, but I am coming to you. Holy Father, guard them by the power of your name, which you have given to me, so that they may be one, just as we are. 12 When I was with them, I guarded them by the power of your name, which you have given to me; yes, I kept watch over them; and not one of them was destroyed (except the one meant for destruction, so that the Tanakh might be fulfilled). 13 But now, I am coming to you; and I say these things while I am still in the world so that they may have my joy made complete in themselves.
14 “I have given them your word, and the world hated them, because they do not belong to the world — just as I myself do not belong to the world. 15 I don’t ask you to take them out of the world, but to protect them from the Evil One. 16 They do not belong to the world, just as I do not belong to the world. 17 Set them apart for holiness by means of the truth — your word is truth. 18 Just as you sent me into the world, I have sent them into the world. 19 On their behalf I am setting myself apart for holiness, so that they too may be set apart for holiness by means of the truth.
John Wesley's Notes-Commentary for:
Acts 1:15-17, 21-26
Verse 15
[15] And in those days Peter stood up in the midst of the disciples, and said, (the number of names together were about an hundred and twenty,)
The number of persons together — Who were together in the upper room.
were a hundred and twenty — But he had undoubtedly many more in other places; of whom more than five hundred saw him at once after his resurrection, 1 Corinthians 15:6.
Verse 16
[16] Men and brethren, this scripture must needs have been fulfilled, which the Holy Ghost by the mouth of David spake before concerning Judas, which was guide to them that took Jesus.
Psalms 41:9.
Verse 18
[18] Now this man purchased a field with the reward of iniquity; and falling headlong, he burst asunder in the midst, and all his bowels gushed out.
This man purchased a field with the reward of iniquity — That is, a field was purchased with the reward of his iniquity; though very possibly Judas might design the purchase.
And falling down on his face — It seems the rope broke before, or as he died.
Verse 19
[19] And it was known unto all the dwellers at Jerusalem; insomuch as that field is called in their proper tongue, Aceldama, that is to say, The field of blood.
In their own tongue — This expression, That is, the field of blood, St. Luke seems to have added to the words of St. Peter, for the use of Theophilus and other readers who did not understand Hebrew.
Verse 20
[20] For it is written in the book of Psalms, Let his habitation be desolate, and let no man dwell therein: and his bishoprick let another take.
His bishopric — That is, his apostleship. Psalms 69:25.
Verse 21
[21] Wherefore of these men which have companied with us all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us,
All the time that the Lord Jesus was going in and out — That is, conversing familiarly: over us - as our Master. Psalms 109:8.
Verse 22
[22] Beginning from the baptism of John, unto that same day that he was taken up from us, must one be ordained to be a witness with us of his resurrection.
To be a witness with us of his resurrection — And of the circumstances which preceded and followed it.
Verse 23
[23] And they appointed two, Joseph called Barsabas, who was surnamed Justus, and Matthias.
And they appointed two — So far the faithful could go by consulting together, but no further. Therefore here commenced the proper use of the lot, whereby a matter of importance, which cannot be determined by any ordinary method, is committed to the Divine decision.
Verse 25
[25] That he may take part of this ministry and apostleship, from which Judas by transgression fell, that he might go to his own place.
Fell — By his transgression - Some time before his death: to go to his own place - That which his crimes had deserved, and which he had chosen for himself, far from the other apostles, in the region of death.
Psalm 1
Verse 1
[1] Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful.
Blessed — The Hebrew words are very emphatical: O the blessedness of that man! Counsel - That doth not lead his life according to their counsel, or manner of living.
Standeth — Which notes a more settled abode in it.
Way — In their manner of conversation.
Seat — Which notes a constant and resolved perseverance in their wicked courses.
Scornful — Of those who make a mock of sin, and scoff at goodness and goodmen. Divers observe a gradation in this verse; the following clause still exceeding the former, for standing is more than walking, and sitting more than standing; and sinners in scripture use, are worse than the ungodly, and the scornful are the worst of sinners.
Verse 2
[2] But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night.
Day and night — Not seldom and slightly, but diligently, and constantly.
Verse 3
[3] And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.
Whither — His happiness is not short and transitory, but, like those trees which are continually green and flourishing.
Verse 4
[4] The ungodly are not so: but are like the chaff which the wind driveth away.
Ungodly — Their condition is far different.
Chaff — They are restless and unquiet: their seeming felicity, hath no firm foundation, but quickly vanishes and flees away as chaff before the wind.
Verse 5
[5] Therefore the ungodly shall not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous.
Not stand — Not endure the trial.
Judgment — In the great and general judgment of the world.
Verse 6
[6] For the LORD knoweth the way of the righteous: but the way of the ungodly shall perish.
Knoweth — He approves, loves, and delights in them, and therefore will recompence them.
Perish — All their designs and courses shall come to nothing, and they shall perish with them.
1 John 5:9-13
Verse 9
[9] If we receive the witness of men, the witness of God is greater: for this is the witness of God which he hath testified of his Son.
If we receive the testimony of men — As we do continually, and must do in a thousand instances.
The testimony of God is greater — Of higher authority, and much more worthy to be received; namely, this very testimony which God the Father, together with the Word and the Spirit, hath testified of the Son, as the Saviour of the world.
Verse 10
[10] He that believeth on the Son of God hath the witness in himself: he that believeth not God hath made him a liar; because he believeth not the record that God gave of his Son.
He that believeth on the Son of God hath the testimony — The dear evidence of this, in himself: he that believeth not God, in this, hath made him a liar; because he supposes that to be false which God has expressly testified.
Verse 11
[11] And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son.
And this is the sum of that testimony, that God hath given us a title to, and the real beginning of, eternal life; and that this is purchased by, and treasured up in, his Son, who has all the springs and the fulness of it in himself, to communicate to his body, the church, first in grace and then in glory.
Verse 12
[12] He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life.
It plainly follows, he that hath the Son - Living and reigning in him by faith. Hath this life; he that hath not the Son of God hath not this life - Hath no part or lot therein. In the former clause, the apostle says simply, the Son; because believers know him: in the latter, the Son of God; that unbelievers may know how great a blessing they fall short of.
Verse 13
[13] These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God.
These things have I written — In the introduction, 1 John 1:4, he said, I write: now, in the close, I have written. That ye may know - With a fuller and stronger assurance, that ye have eternal life.John 17:6-19
Verse 6
[6] I have manifested thy name unto the men which thou gavest me out of the world: thine they were, and thou gavest them me; and they have kept thy word.
I have manifested thy name — All thy attributes; and in particular thy paternal relation to believers; to the men whom thou hast given me - The apostles, and so John 17:12.
They were thine — By creation, and by descent from Abraham.
And thou hast given them me — By giving them faith in what I have spoken. So John 17:9.
Verse 7
[7] Now they have known that all things whatsoever thou hast given me are of thee.
Now they know that all things — Which I have done and spoken, are of thee - And consequently right and true.
Verse 8
[8] For I have given unto them the words which thou gavest me; and they have received them, and have known surely that I came out from thee, and they have believed that thou didst send me.
They have received them — By faith.
Verse 9
[9] I pray for them: I pray not for the world, but for them which thou hast given me; for they are thine.
I pray not for the world — Not in these petitions, which are adapted to the state of believers only. (He prays for the world at John 17:21,23, that they may believe - That they may know God hath sent him.) This no more proves that our Lord did not pray for the world, both before and afterward, than his praying for the apostles alone, John 17:6-19, proves that he did not pray for them also which shall believe through their word, John 17:20.
Verse 10
[10] And all mine are thine, and thine are mine; and I am glorified in them.
All things that are mine are thine, and that are thine are mine — These are very high and strong expressions, too grand for any mere creature to use; as implying that all things whatsoever, inclusive of the Divine nature, perfections, and operations, are the common property of the Father and the Son. And this is the original ground of that peculiar property, which both the Father and the Son have in the persons who were given to Christ as Mediator; according to what is said in the close of the verse, of his being glorified by them; namely, believing in him, and so acknowledging his glory.
Verse 11
[11] And now I am no more in the world, but these are in the world, and I come to thee. Holy Father, keep through thine own name those whom thou hast given me, that they may be one, as we are.
Keep them through thy name — Thy power, mercy, wisdom, that they may be one - with us and with each other; one body, separate from the world: as we are - By resemblance to us, though not equality.
Verse 12
[12] While I was with them in the world, I kept them in thy name: those that thou gavest me I have kept, and none of them is lost, but the son of perdition; that the scripture might be fulfilled.
Those whom thou hast given me I have guarded, and none of them is lost, but the son of perdition — So one even of them whom God had given him is lost. So far was even that decree from being unchangeable! That the Scripture might be fulfilled - That is, whereby the Scripture was fulfilled. The son of perdition signifies one that deservedly perishes; as a son of death, 2 Samuel 12:5; children of hell, Matthew 23:15, and children of wrath, Ephesians 2:3, signify persons justly obnoxious to death, hell, wrath. Psalms 109:8.
Verse 13
[13] And now come I to thee; and these things I speak in the world, that they might have my joy fulfilled in themselves.
In the world — That is, before I leave the world.
My joy — The joy I feel at going to the Father.
Verse 15
[15] I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil.
That thou wouldest take them out of the world — Not yet: but that thou wouldest keep them from the evil one - Who reigns therein.
Verse 17
[17] Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.
Sanctify — Consecrate them by the anointing of thy Spirit to their office, and perfect them in holiness, by means of thy word.
Verse 19
[19] And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth.
I sanctify myself — I devote myself as a victim, to be sacrificed.Sermon Story "Choosing Leadership Replacement" by Gary Lee Parker for Sunday, 17 May 2015 - Scripture: Acts 1:15 During this period, when the group of believers numbered about 120, Kefa stood up and addressed his fellow-believers: 16 “Brothers, the Ruach HaKodesh spoke in advance through David about Y’hudah, and these words of the Tanakh had to be fulfilled. He was guide for those who arrested Yeshua — 17 he was one of us and had been assigned a part in our work.”
21 Therefore, one of the men who have been with us continuously throughout the time the Lord Yeshua traveled around among us, 22 from the time Yochanan was immersing people until the day Yeshua was taken up from us — one of these must become a witness with us to his resurrection.”
23 They nominated two men — Yosef Bar-Sabba, surnamed Justus, and Mattityahu. 24 Then they prayed, “Lord, you know everyone’s heart. Show us which of these two you have chosen 25 to take over the work and the office of emissary that Y’hudah abandoned to go where he belongs.” 26 Then they drew lots to decide between the two, and the lot fell to Mattityahu. So he was added to the eleven emissaries.
After Jesus ascended back to the Father and before the Promised Holy Spirit fell on the Disciples, they were in the Upper room prayfully waiting for the Promise Jesus told them to wait for they came up with an idea. The idea was that since the 12th dsiciple, Judas Ischariot, was dead, they should choose another leader to replace him in his position. They talked it over with each other seeking some man who was with them since the baptism of Jesus by John to the Ascension of Jesus back to the Father. Through their thinking, they came up with two men to choose the one from, then they prayed to God for His wisdom to choose and drew lots as was the custom in that day to decide who God would choose which they did. There are many ways to choose a new Spriitual leader within the church, but they all are centered around prayer. I am reminded how the Roman Catholic lects are new Pope with all the Cardinals gathered together in Rome in prayer then we they feel as though the man is elected they send up white smoke t tell the people outside that a new Pope as been chosen. Then there is the choosing of a Senior Pastor for a local church. With the Methodist Church this is left to the Annual Conference's Resident Bishop through consultation with the District Superintendents as the Bishop go over the churches and the pastors with prayer to God for His guidance to find the correct God-chosen person to be senior pastor of a local church. Within the Nazarene Church, the selecting of a local pastor is through the local church board in consultation with the District Superintendent while all are praying doe God's chosen person to lead them, then when a person is selected the person is brough before a called meeting of the church members 15 years and older to say us or no on this person. God still has the final word, but He allows us to seek His wisdom in our choice. How do you understand the Apostles to replace Judas after His death? How do understand the choosing of Godly leaders for the church? How much do you count on prayers for God's wisdom? We come to seek God's wisdom and grace as we take and eat the Body of Jesus and drink His Blood through the Holy Sacrament of the Holy Eucharist singing the Hymn "God, Our Father, Hear Us Pray" by Annie Pinnock Malin, 1863-1935
1. God, our Father, hear us pray;
Send thy grace this holy day.
As we take of emblems blest,
On our Savior's love we rest.
2. Grant us, Father, grace divine;
May thy smile upon us shine.
As we eat the broken bread,
Thine approval on us shed.
3. As we drink the water clear,
Let thy Spirit linger near.
Pardon faults, O Lord, we pray;
Bless our efforts day by day.
_____________________The Lectionary for This Week:
Acts 1:1-11
Psalm 47
Ephesians 1:15-23
Luke 24:44-53
Lectionary Scriptures:
Acts 1:1 Dear Theophilos:
In the first book, I wrote about everything Yeshua set out to do and teach, 2 until the day when, after giving instructions through the Ruach HaKodesh to the emissaries whom he had chosen, he was taken up into heaven.
3 After his death he showed himself to them and gave many convincing proofs that he was alive. During a period of forty days they saw him, and he spoke with them about the Kingdom of God.
4 At one of these gatherings, he instructed them not to leave Yerushalayim but to wait for “what the Father promised, which you heard about from me. 5 For Yochanan used to immerse people in water; but in a few days, you will be immersed in the Ruach HaKodesh!”
6 When they were together, they asked him, “Lord, are you at this time going to restore self-rule to Isra’el?” 7 He answered, “You don’t need to know the dates or the times; the Father has kept these under his own authority. 8 But you will receive power when the Ruach HaKodesh comes upon you; you will be my witnesses both in Yerushalayim and in all Y’hudah and Shomron, indeed to the ends of the earth!”
9 After saying this, he was taken up before their eyes; and a cloud hid him from their sight. 10 As they were staring into the sky after him, suddenly they saw two men dressed in white standing next to them. 11 The men said, “You Galileans! Why are you standing, staring into space? This Yeshua, who has been taken away from you into heaven, will come back to you in just the same way as you saw him go into heaven.”
Psalm 47: (0) For the leader. A psalm of the descendants of Korach:
2 (1) Clap your hands, all you peoples!
Shout to God with cries of joy!
3 (2) For Adonai ‘Elyon is awesome,
a great king over all the earth.
4 (3) He makes peoples subject to us,
puts nations under our feet.
5 (4) He chooses our heritage for us,
the pride of Ya‘akov, whom he loves. (Selah)
6 (5) God goes up to shouts of acclaim,
Adonai to a blast on the shofar.
7 (6) Sing praises to God, sing praises!
Sing praises to our king, sing praises!
8 (7) For God is king of all the earth;
sing praises in a maskil.
9 (8) God rules the nations;
God sits on his holy throne.
10 (9) The leaders of the people gather together,
the people of the God of Avraham;
for the rulers of the earth belong to God,
who is exalted on high.
Ephesians 1:15 For this reason, ever since I heard about your trust in the Lord Yeshua and your love for all God’s people, 16 I have not stopped giving thanks for you. In my prayers I keep asking 17 the God of our Lord Yeshua the Messiah, the glorious Father, to give you a spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you will have full knowledge of him. 18 I pray that he will give light to the eyes of your hearts, so that you will understand the hope to which he has called you, what rich glories there are in the inheritance he has promised his people, 19 and how surpassingly great is his power working in us who trust him. It works with the same mighty strength he used 20 when he worked in the Messiah to raise him from the dead and seat him at his right hand in heaven, 21 far above every ruler, authority, power, dominion or any other name that can be named either in the ‘olam hazeh or in the ‘olam haba. 22 Also, he has put all things under his feet[a] and made him head over everything for the Messianic Community, 23 which is his body, the full expression of him who fills all creation.[Footnotes:
Ephesians 1:22 Psalm 8:7(6)]
Luke 24:44 Yeshua said to them, “This is what I meant when I was still with you and told you that everything written about me in the Torah of Moshe, the Prophets and the Psalms had to be fulfilled.” 45 Then he opened their minds, so that they could understand the Tanakh, 46 telling them, “Here is what it says: the Messiah is to suffer and to rise from the dead on the third day; 47 and in his name repentance leading to forgiveness of sins is to be proclaimed to people from all nations, starting with Yerushalayim. 48 You are witnesses of these things. 49 Now I am sending forth upon you what my Father promised, so stay here in the city until you have been equipped with power from above.”
50 He led them out toward Beit-Anyah; then, raising his hands, he said a b’rakhah over them; 51 and as he was blessing them, he withdrew from them and was carried up into heaven. 52 They bowed in worship to him, then returned to Yerushalayim, overflowing with joy. 53 And they spent all their time in the Temple courts, praising God.
John Wesley's Notes-Commentary for
Acts 1:1-11
Verse 2
[2] Until the day in which he was taken up, after that he through the Holy Ghost had given commandments unto the apostles whom he had chosen:
After having given commandment — In the 3d verse Acts 1:3 St. Luke expresses in general terms what Christ said to his apostles during those forty days. But in the 4th Acts 1:4 and following verses he declares what he said on the day of his ascension. He had brought his former account down to that day; and from that day begins the Acts of the Apostles.
Verse 3
[3] To whom also he shewed himself alive after his passion by many infallible proofs, being seen of them forty days, and speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God:
Being seen by them forty days — That is, many times during that space.
And speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God — Which was the sum of all his discourses with them before his passion also.
Verse 4
[4] And, being assembled together with them, commanded them that they should not depart from Jerusalem, but wait for the promise of the Father, which, saith he, ye have heard of me.
Wait for the promise of the Father, which ye have heard from me — When he was with them a little before, as it is recorded, Luke 24:49.
Verse 5
[5] For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence.
Ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost — And so are all true believers to the end of the world. But the extraordinary gifts of the Holy Ghost also are here promised.
Verse 6
[6] When they therefore were come together, they asked of him, saying, Lord, wilt thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel?
Dost thou at this time — At the time thou now speakest of? not many days hence? restore the kingdom to Israel? - They still seemed to dream of an outward, temporal kingdom, in which the Jews should have dominion over all nations. It seems they came in a body, having before concerted the design, to ask when this kingdom would come.
Verse 7
[7] And he said unto them, It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in his own power.
The times or the seasons — Times, in the language of the Scriptures, denote a longer; seasons, a shorter space.
Which the Father hath put in his own power — To be revealed when and to whom it pleaseth him.
Verse 8
[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.
But ye shall receive power — and shall be witnesses to me - That is, ye shall be empowered to witness my Gospel, both by your preaching and suffering.
Psalm 47
Verse 3
[3] He shall subdue the people under us, and the nations under our feet.
Subdue — He speaks this in the name of the whole church, to which all particular believers were to submit themselves in the Lord.
Verse 4
[4] He shall choose our inheritance for us, the excellency of Jacob whom he loved. /*Selah*/.
Chuse — He will appoint and bestow upon us.
Inheritance — The presence and worship, and blessing of God. This God had chosen for the Israelites and resolved to chuse or set apart for the Gentiles.
Of Jacob — Of the people of Jacob or Israel, who are frequently called Jacob, for these did actually enjoy the presence of God in his sanctuary.
Loved — Not for any peculiar worth in them, but for his free love to them, as he declareth, Deuteronomy 7:7,8.
Verse 5
[5] God is gone up with a shout, the LORD with the sound of a trumpet.
God — This is meant literally of the ark: but mystically of Christ's ascension into heaven, as may be gathered by comparing this with Ephesians 4:8, where the like words uttered concerning the ark upon the same occasion, Psalms 68:18, are directly applied to Christ's ascension.
Verse 7
[7] For God is the King of all the earth: sing ye praises with understanding.
The king — Not only ours, but of all the nations of the world.
Sing — Not formally and carelessly, but seriously, considering the greatness of this king whom you praise, and what abundant cause you have to praise him.
Verse 8
[8] God reigneth over the heathen: God sitteth upon the throne of his holiness.
The throne — Heaven is often called God's throne, whence God is said to behold and to rule all nations; of which general dominion of God, he here speaks. And Christ sits at his father's right-hand, for that purpose.
Verse 9
[9] The princes of the people are gathered together, even the people of the God of Abraham: for the shields of the earth belong unto God: he is greatly exalted.
The princes — The Gentiles, who were divided in their principles, and interests, and religions, are now united and gathered together to Christ, laying their scepters at his feet, and jointly owning his worship and service. And altho' he mentions their conversion only, yet the conversion of their people might reasonably be supposed.
Of the God — He doth not say the people of Abraham, lest this should be appropriated to the Israelites; but the people of the God of Abraham who worship the God of Abraham, whether they be Jews or Gentiles.
The Shields — The princes or rulers, who are called shields, Hosea 4:18, because by their office they are the common prosecutors of all their people. These are the Lord's, at his disposal, or subject to his dominion, both as to their hearts and kingdoms.
Exalted — By this means God shall be greatly glorified.
Ephesians 1:15-23
Verse 15
[15] Wherefore I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus, and love unto all the saints,
Since I heard of your faith and love — That is, of their perseverance and increase therein.
Verse 16
[16] Cease not to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers;
I cease not — In all my solemn addresses to God.
To give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers — So he did of all the churches, Colossians 1:9.
Verse 17
[17] That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him:
That the Father of that infinite glory which shines in the face of Christ, from whom also we receive the glorious inheritance, Ephesians 1:18, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation - The same who is the Spirit of promise is also, in the progress of the faithful, the Spirit of wisdom and revelation; making them wise unto salvation, and revealing to them the deep things of God. He is here speaking of that wisdom and revelation which are common to all real Christians.
Verse 18
[18] The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints,
The eyes of your understanding — It is with these alone that we discern the things of God. Being first opened, and then enlightened - - By his Spirit.
That ye may know what is the hope of his calling — That ye may experimentally and delightfully know what are the blessings which God has called you to hope for by his word and his Spirit.
And what is the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints — What an immense treasure of blessedness he hath provided as an inheritance for holy souls.
Verse 19
[19] And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power,
And what the exceeding greatness of his power toward us who believe — Both in quickening our dead souls, and preserving them in spiritual life.
According to the power which he exerted in Christ, raising him from the dead — By the very same almighty power whereby he raised Christ; for no less would suffice.
Verse 20
[20] Which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places,
And he hath seated him at his own right hand — That is, he hath exalted him in his human nature, as a recompence for his sufferings, to a quiet, everlasting possession of all possible blessedness, majesty, and glory.
Verse 21
[21] 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:
Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion — That is, God hath invested him with uncontrollable authority over all demons in hell, all angels in heaven, and all the princes and potentates on earth.
And every name that is named — We know the king is above all, though we cannot name all the officers of his court. So we know that Christ is above all, though we are not able to name all his subjects.
Not only in this world, but also in that which is to come — The world to come is so styled, not because it does not yet exist, but because it is not yet visible. Principalities and powers are named now; but those also who are not even named in this world, but shall be revealed in the world to come, are all subject to Christ.
Verse 22
[22] And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church,
And he hath given him to be head over all things to the church — An head both of guidance and government, and likewise of life and influence, to the whole and every member of it. All these stand in the nearest union with him, and have as continual and effectual a communication of activity, growth, and strength from him, as the natural body from its head.
Verse 23
[23] Which is his body, the fulness of him that filleth all in all.
The fulness of him that filleth all in all — It is hard to say in what sense this can be spoken of the church; but the sense is easy and natural, if we refer it to Christ, who is the fulness of the Father.
Luke 24:44-53
Verse 44
[44] And he said unto them, These are the words which I spake unto you, while I was yet with you, that all things must be fulfilled, which were written in the law of Moses, and in the prophets, and in the psalms, concerning me.
And he said — On the day of his ascension.
In the law, and the prophets, and the psalms — The prophecies as well as types, relating to the Messiah, are contained either in the books of Moses (usually called the law) in the Psalms, or in the writings of the prophets; little being said directly concerning him in the historical books.
Verse 45
[45] Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures,
Then opened he their understanding, to understand the Scriptures — He had explained them before to the two as they went to Emmaus. But still they Understood them not, till he took off the veil from their hearts, by the illumination of his Spirit.
Verse 47
[47] And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.
Beginning at Jerusalem — This was appointed most graciously and wisely: graciously, as it encouraged the, greatest sinners to repent, when they saw that even the murderers of Christ were not excepted from mercy: and wisely, as hereby Christianity was more abundantly attested; the facts being published first on the very spot where they happened.
Verse 49
[49] And, behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high.
Behold I send the promise — Emphatically so called; the Holy Ghost.
Verse 50
[50] And he led them out as far as to Bethany, and he lifted up his hands, and blessed them.
He led them out as far as Bethany — Not the town, but the district: to the mount of Olives, Acts 1:12, which stood within the boundaries of Bethany.
Verse 51
[51] And it came to pass, while he blessed them, he was parted from them, and carried up into heaven.
And while he was blessing them, he was parted from them — It was much more proper that our Lord should ascend into heaven, than that he should rise from the dead, in the sight of the apostles. For his resurrection was proved when they saw him alive after his passion: but they could not see him in heaven while they continued on earth.
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Upper Room Ministries, a ministry of Discipleship Ministries
PO Box 340004
Nashville, Tennessee 37203-0004 United States
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Sermon Story "Jesus Teaches From the Hebrew Scriptures" by Gary Lee Parker for Sunday, 17 May 2015 with Scripture: Luke 24:44 Yeshua said to them, “This is what I meant when I was still with you and told you that everything written about me in the Torah of Moshe, the Prophets and the Psalms had to be fulfilled.” 45 Then he opened their minds, so that they could understand the Tanakh, 46 telling them, “Here is what it says: the Messiah is to suffer and to rise from the dead on the third day; 47 and in his name repentance leading to forgiveness of sins is to be proclaimed to people from all nations, starting with Yerushalayim. 48 You are witnesses of these things. 49 Now I am sending forth upon you what my Father promised, so stay here in the city until you have been equipped with power from above.”
50 He led them out toward Beit-Anyah; then, raising his hands, he said a b’rakhah over them; 51 and as he was blessing them, he withdrew from them and was carried up into heaven. 52 They bowed in worship to him, then returned to Yerushalayim, overflowing with joy. 53 And they spent all their time in the Temple courts, praising God.
I remember it well. We have heard from the women that Jesus who was truly dead from crucifixion was alive to walk and talk. We heard it from the two disciples who met him on the road to Emmaus and Jesus was teaching them the correct interpretation of the Hebrew Scriptures which talked about Jesus. Yet, now Jesus walked towards the Mount of Olives in the District of Bethany. As we walked alon with Jesus leading us, He was teaching from our Scriptures that talked about Him and His life, suffering, death, resurrection, and even ascension back to the Father. We in our stupidity asked Him when He would re-establish the Kingdom of Israel. Jesus responded that not too many days ahead, The Father will send His Promised Holy Spirit to empower us to spread His good news to all the nations starting from Jerusalem to all the nations of the world. As we arrived at the Mount of Olives, Jesus was lifted into the sky until we could not see Him any more. As we stood gazing and wondering there were two men in white arou nd the clouds saying to us do not keep gaing for this same Jesus will return as He left. Then, they will say that we were are to return to Jerusalem and wait patiently for the Promise that Jesus said the Father would send to us. so, we returned to the Upper Room in Jerusalem. How do you understand the teaching of Scriptures by Jesus? How do you understand the Scriptures teaching about Jesus life, suffering, death, resurrection, ascension, and return? Will you live your lives as He taught us? We come to receive His Promised Power to be His witness to all nations and people as we come to eat the Body of Jesus and Drink His Blood through the Holy Sacrament of the Holy Eucharist as we sing the Hymn "Tell me the story of Jesus, Write on my heart every word" by Author: Fanny Crosby (1880)
1. Tell me the story of Jesus,
Write on my heart every word;
Tell me the story most precious,
Sweetest that ever was heard.
Tell how the angels in chorus,
Sang as they welcomed His birth,
"Glory to God in the highest!
Peace and good tidings to earth."
Chorus:
Tell me the story of Jesus,
Write on my heart every word;
Tell me the story most precious,
Sweetest that ever was heard.
2. Fasting alone in the desert,
Tell of the days that are past;
How for our sins He was tempted
Yet was triumphant at last.
Tell of the years of His labor,
Tell of the sorrow He bore;
He was despised and afflicted,
Homeless, rejected, and poor.
Chorus:
Tell me the story of Jesus,
Write on my heart every word;
Tell me the story most precious,
Sweetest that ever was heard.
3. Tell of the cross where they nailed Him,
Writhing in anguish and pain;
Tell of the grave where they laid Him,
Tell how He liveth again.
Love in that story so tender,
Clearer than ever I see:
Stay, let me weep while you whisper,
Love paid the ransom for me.
Chorus:
Tell me the story of Jesus,
Write on my heart every word;
Tell me the story most precious,
Sweetest that ever was heard.
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San Diego, California 92104-1844, United States
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Today's Devotional:
The Upper Room Daily Devotional "God Pleaser" for Monday, 18 May 2015 - Scripture: 1 Samuel 16:1 Adonai said to Sh’mu’el, “How much longer are you going to go on grieving for Sha’ul, now that I have rejected him as king over Isra’el? Fill your horn with oil, and set out; I will send you to Yishai the Beit-Lachmi, because I have chosen myself a king from among his sons.” 2 Sh’mu’el said, “How can I go? If Sha’ul hears of it, he will have me killed.” Adonai said, “Take a female cow with you and say, ‘I have come to sacrifice to Adonai.’ 3 Summon Yishai to the sacrifice. I will tell you what to do, and you are to anoint for me the person I point out to you.”
4 Sh’mu’el did what Adonai said and arrived at Beit-Lechem. The leaders of the city came trembling to meet him and asked, “Are you coming in peace?” 5 He answered, “In peace. I have come to sacrifice to Adonai. Consecrate yourselves, and come with me to the sacrifice.” He consecrated Yishai and his sons and summoned them to the sacrifice. 6 When they had come, he looked at Eli’av and said, “This has to be Adonai’s anointed one, here before him.” 7 But Adonai said to Sh’mu’el, “Don’t pay attention to how he looks or how tall he is, because I have rejected him. Adonai doesn’t see the way humans see — humans look at the outward appearance, but Adonai looks at the heart.” 8 Then Yishai called Avinadav and presented him to Sh’mu’el; but he said, “Adonai hasn’t chosen this one either.” 9 Yishai presented Shammah; again Sh’mu’el said, “Adonai hasn’t chosen this one either.” 10 Yishai presented seven of his sons to Sh’mu’el; but Sh’mu’el told Yishai, “Adonai has not chosen these. 11 Are all your sons here?” Sh’mu’el asked Yishai. He replied, “There is still the youngest; he’s out there tending the sheep.” Sh’mu’el said to Yishai, “Send and bring him back, because we won’t sit down to eat until he gets here.” 12 He sent and brought him in. With ruddy cheeks, red hair and bright eyes, he was a good-looking fellow. Adonai said, “Stand up and anoint him; he’s the one.”
The LORD said to Samuel, . . . “People look at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.”[1 Samuel 16:7 (NIV)]
For many years I sought people’s approval by paying attention to my image in the mirror — how I looked and what I wore. I wanted to do my best to please my parents, employers, and friends. Burdened by this quest for acceptance, I never found lasting contentment. My need for affirmation led to unrealistic expectations and broken relationships.
In the depths of despair, I cried out to God. The moment I said God’s name, I felt the warmth of divine love and wondered how the God of the universe could love even me. One day, as I tried to find my way back to God by reading the story of David, 1 Samuel 16:7 helped me to realize that God was not concerned about my appearance or performance but about what was in my heart.
I began to read the Bible with a new passion and learned ways I might please God instead of people. When I planned my days, I left time open to extend a helping hand or to share a smile or an encouraging word with someone in need. I gradually moved from a self-centered to a God-centered manner of living and discovered a life’s purpose that wasn’t based on what I could earn but on what I could contribute.
The Author: Sue Tornai (California, USA)
Thought for the Day: God looks past my appearance and abilities and into my heart.
Prayer: Thank you, Lord, for your love and acceptance and for the opportunity to tell others what you have done for us. Amen.
Prayer focus: Someone Seeking Contentment_____________________
Today's Devotional:
The Upper Room Daily Devotional "Ascension-A Gift From The Father" for Sunday, 17 May 2015 - Scripture: Acts 1:1 Dear Theophilos:
In the first book, I wrote about everything Yeshua set out to do and teach, 2 until the day when, after giving instructions through the Ruach HaKodesh to the emissaries whom he had chosen, he was taken up into heaven.
3 After his death he showed himself to them and gave many convincing proofs that he was alive. During a period of forty days they saw him, and he spoke with them about the Kingdom of God.
4 At one of these gatherings, he instructed them not to leave Yerushalayim but to wait for “what the Father promised, which you heard about from me. 5 For Yochanan used to immerse people in water; but in a few days, you will be immersed in the Ruach HaKodesh!”
6 When they were together, they asked him, “Lord, are you at this time going to restore self-rule to Isra’el?” 7 He answered, “You don’t need to know the dates or the times; the Father has kept these under his own authority. 8 But you will receive power when the Ruach HaKodesh comes upon you; you will be my witnesses both in Yerushalayim and in all Y’hudah and Shomron, indeed to the ends of the earth!”
9 After saying this, he was taken up before their eyes; and a cloud hid him from their sight. 10 As they were staring into the sky after him, suddenly they saw two men dressed in white standing next to them. 11 The men said, “You Galileans! Why are you standing, staring into space? This Yeshua, who has been taken away from you into heaven, will come back to you in just the same way as you saw him go into heaven.”
Jesus said, “I tell you the truth; it is to your advantage that I go away, for if I do not go away, the Advocate will not come to you; but if I go, I will send him to you.”[John 16:7 (NRSV)]
My father was in the military and frequently traveled abroad for extended periods of time. We missed him, but there was something we looked forward to when he returned: the reunion and his presence in our lives again. We would hug him and he would always give each one of us a gift, wrapped in newspaper that we would tear into joyfully.
Ascension Sunday celebrates the gift that Jesus sent back to us after he ascended into heaven. John called it the “Advocate,” and Luke refers to it as “power” from the Holy Spirit. Two aspects of this gift are somewhat like my father’s returning. First, the Holy Spirit is the presence of God in our lives. Secondly, we can receive with joy the gift of divine power. It is not the power to dominate or control but the power for witnessing and service.
The Author: Edward L. Kelly, Jr. (Iowa, USA)
Thought for the Day: God has given us the gift of the Holy Spirit and divine power to serve others.
Prayer: Dear Lord, help us to realize the gift that you have given to us and use it to bring Christ to others. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Prayer focus: Soldiers Serving Far From Home
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Today's Devotional:The Upper Room Daily Devotional "God Pleaser" for Monday, 18 May 2015 - Scripture: 1 Samuel 16:1 Adonai said to Sh’mu’el, “How much longer are you going to go on grieving for Sha’ul, now that I have rejected him as king over Isra’el? Fill your horn with oil, and set out; I will send you to Yishai the Beit-Lachmi, because I have chosen myself a king from among his sons.” 2 Sh’mu’el said, “How can I go? If Sha’ul hears of it, he will have me killed.” Adonai said, “Take a female cow with you and say, ‘I have come to sacrifice to Adonai.’ 3 Summon Yishai to the sacrifice. I will tell you what to do, and you are to anoint for me the person I point out to you.”
4 Sh’mu’el did what Adonai said and arrived at Beit-Lechem. The leaders of the city came trembling to meet him and asked, “Are you coming in peace?” 5 He answered, “In peace. I have come to sacrifice to Adonai. Consecrate yourselves, and come with me to the sacrifice.” He consecrated Yishai and his sons and summoned them to the sacrifice. 6 When they had come, he looked at Eli’av and said, “This has to be Adonai’s anointed one, here before him.” 7 But Adonai said to Sh’mu’el, “Don’t pay attention to how he looks or how tall he is, because I have rejected him. Adonai doesn’t see the way humans see — humans look at the outward appearance, but Adonai looks at the heart.” 8 Then Yishai called Avinadav and presented him to Sh’mu’el; but he said, “Adonai hasn’t chosen this one either.” 9 Yishai presented Shammah; again Sh’mu’el said, “Adonai hasn’t chosen this one either.” 10 Yishai presented seven of his sons to Sh’mu’el; but Sh’mu’el told Yishai, “Adonai has not chosen these. 11 Are all your sons here?” Sh’mu’el asked Yishai. He replied, “There is still the youngest; he’s out there tending the sheep.” Sh’mu’el said to Yishai, “Send and bring him back, because we won’t sit down to eat until he gets here.” 12 He sent and brought him in. With ruddy cheeks, red hair and bright eyes, he was a good-looking fellow. Adonai said, “Stand up and anoint him; he’s the one.”
The LORD said to Samuel, . . . “People look at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.”[1 Samuel 16:7 (NIV)]
For many years I sought people’s approval by paying attention to my image in the mirror — how I looked and what I wore. I wanted to do my best to please my parents, employers, and friends. Burdened by this quest for acceptance, I never found lasting contentment. My need for affirmation led to unrealistic expectations and broken relationships.
In the depths of despair, I cried out to God. The moment I said God’s name, I felt the warmth of divine love and wondered how the God of the universe could love even me. One day, as I tried to find my way back to God by reading the story of David, 1 Samuel 16:7 helped me to realize that God was not concerned about my appearance or performance but about what was in my heart.
I began to read the Bible with a new passion and learned ways I might please God instead of people. When I planned my days, I left time open to extend a helping hand or to share a smile or an encouraging word with someone in need. I gradually moved from a self-centered to a God-centered manner of living and discovered a life’s purpose that wasn’t based on what I could earn but on what I could contribute.
The Author: Sue Tornai (California, USA)
Thought for the Day: God looks past my appearance and abilities and into my heart.
Prayer: Thank you, Lord, for your love and acceptance and for the opportunity to tell others what you have done for us. Amen.
Prayer focus: Someone Seeking Contentment_____________________
Today's Devotional:The Upper Room Daily Devotional "Ascension-A Gift From The Father" for Sunday, 17 May 2015 - Scripture: Acts 1:1 Dear Theophilos:
In the first book, I wrote about everything Yeshua set out to do and teach, 2 until the day when, after giving instructions through the Ruach HaKodesh to the emissaries whom he had chosen, he was taken up into heaven.
3 After his death he showed himself to them and gave many convincing proofs that he was alive. During a period of forty days they saw him, and he spoke with them about the Kingdom of God.
4 At one of these gatherings, he instructed them not to leave Yerushalayim but to wait for “what the Father promised, which you heard about from me. 5 For Yochanan used to immerse people in water; but in a few days, you will be immersed in the Ruach HaKodesh!”
6 When they were together, they asked him, “Lord, are you at this time going to restore self-rule to Isra’el?” 7 He answered, “You don’t need to know the dates or the times; the Father has kept these under his own authority. 8 But you will receive power when the Ruach HaKodesh comes upon you; you will be my witnesses both in Yerushalayim and in all Y’hudah and Shomron, indeed to the ends of the earth!”
9 After saying this, he was taken up before their eyes; and a cloud hid him from their sight. 10 As they were staring into the sky after him, suddenly they saw two men dressed in white standing next to them. 11 The men said, “You Galileans! Why are you standing, staring into space? This Yeshua, who has been taken away from you into heaven, will come back to you in just the same way as you saw him go into heaven.”
Jesus said, “I tell you the truth; it is to your advantage that I go away, for if I do not go away, the Advocate will not come to you; but if I go, I will send him to you.”[John 16:7 (NRSV)]
My father was in the military and frequently traveled abroad for extended periods of time. We missed him, but there was something we looked forward to when he returned: the reunion and his presence in our lives again. We would hug him and he would always give each one of us a gift, wrapped in newspaper that we would tear into joyfully.
Ascension Sunday celebrates the gift that Jesus sent back to us after he ascended into heaven. John called it the “Advocate,” and Luke refers to it as “power” from the Holy Spirit. Two aspects of this gift are somewhat like my father’s returning. First, the Holy Spirit is the presence of God in our lives. Secondly, we can receive with joy the gift of divine power. It is not the power to dominate or control but the power for witnessing and service.
The Author: Edward L. Kelly, Jr. (Iowa, USA)
Thought for the Day: God has given us the gift of the Holy Spirit and divine power to serve others.
Prayer: Dear Lord, help us to realize the gift that you have given to us and use it to bring Christ to others. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Prayer focus: Soldiers Serving Far From Home
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Wichita KS 67207
316-686-0600
800-745-2350
Contact Information
Great Plains Episcopal Office9440 E Boston, Suite 160
Wichita KS 67207
316-686-0600
800-745-2350
info@greatplainsumc.org
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