Hanging out with Jesus XVIII: The Beginning is enough

Hanging out with Jesus XVIII: The Beginning is enough

Mark 10.   Key v. 6, 27

If you can think back far enough and ahead far enough as well as deep enough, you will meet God. In the beginning were God and the word.  The end and the beginning come together in one place - where he is.  Effectively there is no beginning and no ending in his nature. He is eternal.  He is the Alfa and Omega. When it seems he has come to the end, he will just be beginning. When you walk with God, you experience his nature and the end of seasons is only the beginning of new seasons.  The seeds for the future are sown in previous seasons and at the beginning.  What exists at a time can often be explained by what happened at the beginning.

From Chapter 10 of the gospel of Mark, Jesus faced change in his life head on. He could have stayed in Capernaum and enjoyed the Sea of Galilee but it was time to visit Jerusalem for the last time. He knew that it meant a journey to the cross. He was aware it would be his last visit to Jerusalem until he came at the end of time to rule from the New Jerusalem. Despite the risks and dangers involved, he set his head as a flint to go to Jerusalem.

Chapter 10 follows the pattern of the rest of the book where Jesus had time with his disciples, the public, individuals and Religious leaders.  Let us draw lessons from six responses to Jesus on his journey to Jerusalem. 

1) The multitudes gathered around him (v.1). The needy and curious typically crowded him in public places. They had no clue what would soon happen to the great teacher. On this occasion, Mark highlighted that Jesus taught. Many were there to listen. What is notable is that at this late juncture in his life teaching is the main task and priority. Teaching is the way to pass on and leave a legacy. If people are willing to listen, teach as much as you can. Teaching is the key to transforming minds and understanding is the key to winning minds. There is no instant miraculous regeneration of the mind. A process of learning is required.

2) The critics tempted him (v.2-9). Jesus’ critics looked for faults and ways to discredit him but he overcame. His wisdom was smarter and they could not pin him down.  They asked about the lawfulness of divorce. Jews lived as if all things began and ended with Moses. The Bible teaches that they begin and end with Jesus (Hebrews 1, Colossians 1:16, Revelation 22).  To support their view they went back as far as Moses but Jesus took them back beyond Moses to the beginning. There he showed them that God’s design is ‘what God has put together let no man put asunder’ (v.9). The main things such as original purpose, vision, values and intentions are traced to the beginning. Many disputes can be solved by going back to the beginning.

 Jesus came to restore God’s purpose for humanity to enjoy the victory, healing, righteousness, sufficiency, love, peace, joy, dominion and fullness of life he gave at the beginning of creation. The beginning is enough. The cross of Jesus brings the beginning and the end close to you so you can meet God. The cross resets everything to its default. Restoring it to what it was at the beginning.  It goes back far enough where the lamb was slain before the foundation of the world and into the future far enough where the lamb will be enthroned forever.

3) His disciples probed him in the house (v.10-12).  Jesus’ disciples probe him to explain further the position regarding divorce. Jesus was ready to clarify and elaborate. He went on to highlight the implications of putting away one’s spouse and remarrying as tantamount to adultery.  Apart from honoring and maintaining marriages, a big lesson is the mark of discipleship to be with Jesus and learn from him. You always discover more when you learn the word and commit to reading further, praying it in, meditating and obeying it. 

4) Children were brought to him. (v. 13-16). Jesus welcomed children. He rebuked his disciples for attempting to shield him from Jesus. They may have thought the business was too serious for children. Jesus refused to be viewed as exclusive to a class or social grouping. He refused to be over protected and exalted in an exclusive manner. He is for all ages and can be with you in palace and in a shack to the same measure.  He does not need protection even in the face of his enemies. He is the lion of Judah to defend simply release him. Disciples are not his defender but his distributor.

He demonstrated greatness by embracing children. A lesson he had taught his disciples (Mark 9:34-36). For such is the kingdom of God.  The kingdom is for those with childlike faith. Those who can absolutely depend on Father God

Unlike Peter who wanted to preserve and defend the status quo, the sons of Zebedee wanted to position themselves favorably in a scenario without Jesus (v.37).  They wanted to sit with him in glory.  When the other disciples heard the request, they were displeased and fell back to the debate of who was the greatest. One that Jesus had dealt with already (v.9:35).  It is interesting to note the slowness to learn of the disciples. .  As disciples, we also need to hear from Jesus repeatedly to assimilate his teaching. Spiritual learning happens slowly through persistence, much prayer, correction and rebuke. Teaching can be a frustrating experience that requires patience (2 Timothy 4:2).

5) A religious ruler fell at His feet (v.17-25).  Like Jairus (Mark 5:22), an unnamed religious ruler fell at Jesus’ feet.  With his status in society and among the Jewish leaders many who were opposed to Jesus, it took humility. He risked his reputation and position.  He was not only courageous but also honored Jesus as ‘good master’, had observed all the commandments and asked the right question. No question is more important than ‘what shall I do that I may inherit eternal life?’ Sadly, he came so near to eternal life but made the mistake to walk away because he did not like the answer (v.21). 

Jesus saw the man’s trust in riches as his single hindrance to eternal life.  The attachment and trust in riches not the things was the problem. Jesus answered the man according to his Jewish rules of righteousness (v.19).  The man’s response demonstrated that it is impossible to obey all the law with own or human means. He failed to love God with everything he had breaking law 1- ‘have no other gods’.  He needed grace and mercy not merit (v.20) to find eternal life.  Things have the capacity steal human hearts from God. You can have them but they do not have to have you. Disciples let go by seeking the kingdom of God first and never have to seek them. It takes detachment from possessions to gain true treasures. Jesus came to set you free indeed - from Satan, sin, and things. Free to be entirely his.

Attachment to things is so strong among people that the disciples asked ‘who then shall be saved’ (v.23-26). It is like saying who does not trust in possessions and riches.  Some trust with them others trust in the hope of one day having them.  Jesus explained that attaining eternal life is only possible with God (v.27). Peter was curious to know if they had met the condition for eternal life – ‘we have left everything and have followed’ (v.28). He said yes they had and they would receive a hundred fold what they let go but they had to brace for persecution.  Disciples must have a mind willing to suffer hostile opposition in the course of furthering the gospel. He went on to predict his death on the cross (v. 34). If you hang out with him, he will take you to the place he hung. When you listen to Jesus, he will take you to the cross. Then, he told them he would be hung on the cross now he reminds us that he hung on the cross and rose again.  They were afraid we are grateful. They did not understand we know. They were scattered we are gathered. 

6) Blind man Bartimaeus called on him (v. 46-52).  He cried out and refused to be silenced (v.48). Again, people tried to shield Jesus from this needy man. Watch out for the crowd – they tried to stop the woman with issue of blood, they tried to stop the children, they tried to stop Jairus, they tried to stop Zacheus, they tried to stop blind Bartimaeus and will try to stop you. He however refused to be deterred and cried loud and earnestly enough that Jesus stopped the marching crowd to pay attention. The very crowd that was stopping him ushered the blind man to Jesus. The man seized his moment. He beat the crowd and the motion. He knew what he wanted - I want to see. That was more important than his garment.  He left something behind. It was easy for the poor when you compare with the rich young ruler. He cast it away as he stood to go to Jesus.  The crowd despising and keeping him down began to comfort him. (v.49). They helped take him to Jesus. He found his sight and chose to follow Jesus instead of his way. In faith, you can also shout persistently, defiantly and loudly until Jesus stops for you.

Message by Dr. Kurai Chitima.

Faith Ministries – Johannesburg Faith Life Center.

Ground and First Floors Sunset Bay Building,

204B Bram Fischer drive,

Randburg, Johannesburg, South Africa 

Hanging out with Jesus XVII: A Glimpse of Mountain Glory

Hanging out with Jesus XVII: A Glimpse of Mountain Glory

Mark 9.  Key verse  9:23

The disciples had their turn to say who Jesus was in the last Chapter.  Now it was God’s turn. He pulled back the curtains of humanity and time to show who Jesus was in the Glory of his kingdom. His appearance was changed and he was elevated in what is the transfiguration of Christ. In verse 1, Jesus predicted that some who stood before him would not die before seeing his kingdom in its glory. The transfiguration six days later  was a part of the fulfillment of this promise. The outpouring if the Holy Spirit is another.

When God took Peter, John and James up the mountain, they knew Jesus in a way. When he was transfigured, they saw the glory of his kingdom, and knew him better. We all need daily transfigurations of the Jesus we have in our minds to see him gloriously elevated and closer to his true majestic picture as the king of glory. The curtain must be  pulled back so we can see whom we gave as savior and king. For he is  both the lion and the lamb. The disciples caught a glimpse on the mountain but the Holy Spirit came to reveal Jesus on an on going basis.

God revealed Christ's glory on the mountain. He touched the lives of those on the mountain with Jesus.   As you may have expected, Peter had to say something. If it were today, he would have posted it on Face book. Previously he had been rebuked for minding the things of man. The mountain experience helped him see beyond the things of men. He became aware of a whole world more glorious, lasting and vast than the temporary one.   He saw Jesus in a new way. That matters, because how you see him determines how you respond to him.  Peter was inspired for life. Later, in 2 Peter He wrote "we were eyewitnesses of his majesty . . . when he received honor and glory from God the Father."

God affirmed  Jesus on the mountain.   Jesus appeared talking with Moses and Elijah. The three represented the eras of  the law, the prophets and the grace.  They demonstrated that all three are consistent and in unison. Peter answering a question he was not asked put them at par and proposed they build a tabernacle for each. He saw they could coexist. Great effort, on his part, but not enough. Immediately,  God showed up and distinguished Jesus by  making it perfectly clear that Jesus was above the Law and the Prophets. He declared him 'my beloved son, listen to him'. Previously God had spoken in various ways to people but in the last days, he spoke by his son (Hebrews 1- 1-3). He is the current voice and message to humanity.  When you have seen him in his glory, the next step is to hear and believe him. even when he talks about being killed and resurrecting on the third day.

God strengthened Jesus on the mountain. Luke notes that the discussion with Moses and Elijah was about  his impending death. This was a turning point in the narrative of his life. It was his mountain experience before the valley. It prepared him for the journey to Jerusalem and the cross. The mountain was a foretaste but the full test was down the mountain. The mountain had the crown but the valley had the cross.

The mountain posed a dilemma to the disciples.  Do we go or do we stay. The mountain experience was so wonderful that Peter wanted to stay on the mountain.  God however did not want them to settle and build a memorial tabernacle or monument unto Jesus. His intention was to give them  a person not a building, tradition or organization. Often when people think monument he thinks movement. The direction and solutions are in  recognition and obedience of Jesus.

Applying it to your life today, God needs you down the mountain. He wants you to experience mountain glory down the mountain. He wants to manifest the same glory you saw up the mountain but differently. On the mountain, Christ was unveiled. Down the mountain, humanity is involved. The glory shined on the mountain but it is utilized in the valley down the mountain. Jesus did not come down the mountain with shining face and clothes -   people would have run  from Him.  He needed to  identify with people, their needs and aspirations to be relevant. He came down from the mountain where they were enjoying the glory to being among the needy that needed the glory. Glory was unveiled on the mountain but down the mountain, glory tackled human suffering and problems. Glory on the mountain was a glimpse. Glory down the mountain was a life Journey.   On the mountain, there were Moses and Elijah but down the mountain was flesh and blood. Hands are up in worship on the mountain. Down the mountain, hands were 'dirty and bloody' in the battlefield.  You draw strength from the mountain but battle in the valley (Exodus 17:11-13).   On the mountain, you discuss the future and in the valley, you deal with the current reality.  It is so attractive on the mountain you want to stay there but it is onerous in the valley you want to finish well.  A glorious end viewed on the mountain but the journey is travelled in the valley.  Treasure is revealed on the mountain but it is dug and drilled in the valley.    After a glimpse of mountain, glory is a life of expressing that glory.

The good news is that mountain glory also manifests down the mountain. It is possible to experience mountain  glory down the mountain. In Psalm 23:4, the valley of the shadow of death was a place to experience God's presence, strength, mealtime, anointing, overflow,  goodness and mercy.  In Psalm 84:6, the valley of Baca (weeping) became a well and its pools were filled with rain. And in Hosea 2:15, the valley of Achor (trouble) became a  door of hope and place for celebration. 

Mark 9 teaches how to live the glorious life down the mountain where Jesus is unveiled. How to  bring mountain glory to the valley. Three ways:

>> Depend on God (14-29).

When you listen to Jesus, you find yourself among the needy. That's what happened with Peter, John and James.  From the mountain, they walked into a situation  where the other disciples tried to cast out a demon.  They had cast out demons in the past --- but now they were unable to do so. The scribes probably were making fun of their failure. The father was desperate and pleaded with Jesus to do ‘anything’. Jesus who answers  prayer heard his heart and responded ‘if you can believe ... all things are possible.’  The father said he believed but also needed help in his unbelief. Jesus wonderfully set his son free. Mountain glory was in action down the mountain. Paul wrote, ‘I can do all things thru Christ who strengthens me.’  You also can depend on his strength and seek his kingdom first and all things are possible.

Jesus explained why the disciples failed. They needed to employ prayer and fasting.    Fasting is a form of prayer. So the main point is prayerfulness. They may have prayed or even fasted but until you have believed, you have not prayed. Faith does not mean convincing yourself that you can do something.  It is a fresh and vibrant relationship with God. Always check prayer and eating habits for the cause of spiritual futility.  They focused on the formula of  invoking Jesus' name, instead of focusing on the person and glory of Jesus himself. 

He repeated his prediction of his death and resurrection (v 39-32). Would they trust him? The disciples still did not understand, and this time did not ask him to explain himself better. For the progressive nature of Jesus' prophecies concerning his death, see 8:31, 9:31, and 10:33-34).

>>Serve others (39-40).

The disciples were caught quarreling about who among them was the greatest (33-34). You cannot experience mountain glory down the mountain with negative attitudes towards other people. Attitudes of pride, despising others, bitterness, disharmony and lack of care hinder the glory.  The quality of relationships affects spiritual wellness (Mathew 5:23, 24).

Can you imagine the conversation of the disciples? Perhaps those who went up the mountain thought they were the best and if they had been present, they would have cast the demon out. Maybe Peter was arguing he was the best of the best three  because he was given the keys of the kingdom and was the only one who spoke on the mountain. They also exposed that people are political creatures. Jesus was talking about soon dying. When a leader is about to depart some go into denial mode and are prepared to fight to keep them in power. However because they deny the possibility of his/her departure they are likely as Peter later did, to deny the leader when faced with the reality if their departure. All because  one who departs was not the one they were following. On the other hand, there  are those who see opportunity and jostle for  positions in the  unfolding new dispensation without the leader. The disciples did not only argue about the greatest among them. They also considered themselves as exclusive to preaching the gospel.

Jesus did not rebuke them for wanting to be great but corrected their notion and means to it. He pointed out that it was all right for others to preach for whoever was not against them was for them. Being greatest was not being the exclusive club but having ability to include others in your privilege. Greatness was being able to receive a child. Receiving a child is commitment  to serve selflessly. A child is weak and powerless to reward you. Greatness is humility and meekness. Greatness is a life motivation to please God, and glorify Jesus name. Whatever done for Christ's sake acquires eternal rewards even a seemingly insignificant action like giving a cup of water to someone. If done for Jesus' sake it becomes big and of eternal significance. Whereas, seemingly big things done for selfish reasons are reduced to nothing in eternity. Enjoy mountain glory down the mountain by being at peace with others and serve out of love for Christ the living example, did not come to be served but to serve.

>>Judge yourself (41-50).

Jesus emphasized the need to be gracious and give others benefit of doubt while coming hard on oneself. It is easier to judge others but rather be quick to judge yourself. When you have judged yourself well and honestly, you will not find strength to judge others.  He exhorted that each person should  rein firmly on him/her self. Based on a gain-loss analysis raise the bar of your standards. Do not make it too easy to sin. Raise the stakes because they are high and cannot be higher. The choice is between  obedience and a place of unquenching fire and undying worms. This is such a serious matter that if a bodily organ causes you to stumble, you would rather cut it off.

Jesus picked on the hands, feet and eyes but there are other menacing body parts deserving for many to lose. Jesus mentioned these to metaphorically say cut out whatever leads you to sin. Hand is symbolic of the sinful deeds/works that must be cut off. A foot is the path that leads to sin. Cut off the series of influences, choices or decision path that lands you in sin. The eye is symbolic of looking at things, or viewing them in ways that arouse sinful desires such as lust and greed. You rather live maimed without the troublesome hand, foot and eye than lose mountain glory down the mountain. Pain is to be preferred to sin.  Do not give Satan a foothold. Become effective salt or effective agents for God that flavor the world with good works.

Reflection:

When you are correctly configured (chapter 8), you are tuned in to his frequency.  You will hear the call to the mountain where you will see Jesus transfigured into glory.  From the mountain, you will come down empowered with the mountain glory to face the disfigured marred, corrupted world.

Message by Dr. Kurai Chitima.

Faith Ministries – Johannesburg Faith Life Center.

Ground and First Floors Sunset Bay Building,

204B Bram Fischer drive,

Randburg, Johannesburg, South Africa 

The consequence if seeking his glory

A striking contrast. From the glory in the to the gory in the valley

The Consequence of Glorious living

The Way to Glorious Living

When Jesus came

I'll. sopgo. group casting out demon, got there asked for opp. They let him. Laid hands. And 'I see fire , I am burning etc' whole group came and started to also say go, come out, etc... In end not clear who dud it.  The person went to the groups church.

I'll. shoe makers... One they come back quicker and I make more money. Other - you know, when I make shoes, I keep remembering that I will see a pile of all I made one day . And I want to so make shoes that every shoe I make will pass the judgment of the Lord at the judgment seat of Christ."

Hanging out with Jesus XVI: Tuning to God's Frequency

Hanging out with Jesus XVI: Tuning to God's Frequency

Mark 8 key verse 8:12

And he sighed deeply in his spirit, and saith, Why doth this generation seek a sign?  Verily I say unto you, There shall no sign be given unto this generation (Mark 8:12)

He hath done all things well; he maketh even the deaf to hear, and the dumb to speak (Mark 7:37)

God often sighs in frustration in dealing with us people.  He has to bear with the failure and slowness with which we find his wavelength, catch his signal, tune to his frequency and connect  to his channel . Without shared frequency communication between God and us is impossible.  Often people including his disciples would operate with a very different mindset and perspective to his such that they failed to understand his ways, his words and his heart. Often their hearts were prone and accustomed to receiving content streamed from sources strange to God. They just could not sustain seeing  things as he did.  As a result they often were at cross-purpose with him and misaligned to his will.  

When people caught the frequency of Jesus they came to one conclusion.   And they were beyond measure astonished, saying, He hath done all things well; he maketh even the deaf to hear, and the dumb to speak (Mark 7:37). His name is wonderful. If anything is unwell come to him. Call on him because he makes all things well.  It is well. He does all things well. That is the meaning of holiness, which is his nature. He completes and perfects. When he said ‘It is finished’ it was well done - we were saved to the uttermost.

From Mark 8 we can identify three failures that  obstructed or interfered with God’s signal.

>> Failure  to remember

A multitude of 4000men plus women and children had been with Jesus for three days. Jesus had compassion on them. He was so caring to be thoughtful that some had come from far and were too hungry to be send away hungry.  One would expect the disciples to immediately know the solution since Jesus had multiplied bread before. Instead they were puzzled that Jesus did not want to send them away hungry since there was no means to feed them.  It appears they would have dismissed them. Jesus however blessed the bread and fishes that were available and gave the disciples to distribute. Jesus thus had to demonstrate the second time his ability to multiply bread and fish to feed a multitude. Seven baskets were left over. He is not only sufficient but  all sufficient to cause overflow.

Before long after the multitude was fed, the disciples were on a boat with Jesus. He warned them to be careful of the leaven of the Pharisees.  Yet again, they had  forgotten. When you forget what God can do you begin to worry and become anxious. That is what happened. The disciples worried that they only had a loaf of bread. Jesus knew  their lost frequency and reminded them they were off tune. Why reason ye , because ye have no bread? Perceive ye not yet , neither understand? Have ye your heart yet hardened?  Having eyes, see ye not? And having ears, hear ye not? and do ye not remember?   He had to remind them of the bread and fishes he had multiplied before.

Forgetfulness is a major human pitfall and hazard to faith. In the Old Testament despite the many mighty miracles God performed for the children of Israel  each time they faced the next hurdle or challenge, they would forget  and would resort to complaining and murmuring in fear. As a result of failure to sustain connection to God’s frequency they wondered in the wilderness for forty years. Do whatever you can to remind yourself of what God has done and what the Bible says he can do.  Do the places you frequent, the material you watch and read, websites you visit, and people you associate with remind you of what the Lord has done.

>> Failure to Notice and Acknowledge

God would often use signs (or miracles) in the Bible to authenticate His chosen messengers. The Lord provided Moses with several miraculous signs. Jesus had performed many miracles. He had raised the dead, healed the deaf and blind, multiplied bread, and set many free from demonic possession. But they failed to notice and believe. Rather, they would create empty traditions and follow them stringently.  Jesus was so grieved by their hardness of heart and even wept over the city of Jerusalem (Mark 3:5; Luke 19:41-44).

Many witnessed many signs and wonders that proved Jesus was the Son of God. Despite all these signs  the Pharisees still  asked for a sign.  For their demand for a sign, they got a sigh. Missing his signs brings his sigh of grief in place of relief. Jesus sighed deeply and said the generation that wanted a sign and would not acknowledge it when it was given did not deserve one.  That was the leaven of the Pharisees – demanding what is already there to receive.  A heart bent on seeking a sign will always want another. When the other comes it will ignore it or explain it away  rather than believe. They accused Jesus of doing his work and casting out demons by the power of Beelzebub/Satan.

A symptom of hardness of heart, or blindness or closing of eyes and ears.  With either condition it does not matter what one does it makes no difference. It is unmoved, untouched.   Even if the light shines the closed eye cannot see it. Even if the trumpet sound the shut ear cannot see it. Though the hand of the Lord be present, the hardened heart receives not from it.  Jesus recognized their hardness of heart and instead of a sign he prescribed a correct signal –  tuning to a correct frequency. He would only hope that final sign of his resurrection would convince them.  The sign of Jonah who was three days and three nights in the belly of a huge fish.  Jesus would be crucified but would rise again on the third day.

>> Failure to Mind the things of God 

When Jesus asked his disciples who he was. They were quick with what people said of him. When asked for their view Peter said he was the Christ.  He was commended for getting the answer right. However, while he got the words correct he missed the spiritual meaning of it. Jesus went on to bring out the implications of what Peter had just said. But Peter could not take it. He instead took Jesus aside and rebuked him so strongly that Jesus had to rebuke the devil. 

But he turning about, and seeing his disciples, rebuked Peter, and saith, Get thee behind me, Satan; for thou mindest not the things of God, but the things of men (Mark 8:33).

Peter looked to a messiah a saviour to deliver Israel from Roman rule not one to be arrested and killed. He rebelled against the notion that most likely he did not even hear the happy ending of resurrection.   Jesus identified Peter’s problem as the things that dominated his mind and heart  – things of men. Things of this world. Solving problems in this life so to enjoy before dying. Things of the natural realm.  Earthly minded selfish ambition (James 3:13-4:10). The praise of men.  Great influence in this world. Acquiring material wealth - money, houses, cars, fame. 

God wants us to be mindful of his things. When you are not mindful of the things of God - like Peter you will not see the way Jesus sees. You will not receive the work of the messiah. He must die because you deserved to die. You will miss his plan and purpose. You will misunderstand his ways. You will fight instead of cooperating with him.  To Jesus, love of the world replaced love for his Father.    Not only must the messiah die those who choose to follow Him must  also die to self. In losing false life they find true life.

Lets pray that we be mindful of the things of God. That we take them seriously. That we invest effort, time and treasure in them, that we seek the things above (Colossian 3:1-4), that our conduct and love be much different from that of the world, that the kingdom of God be our life priority and that we live with eternity in view.  Tune to God’s frequency through saturating your head and heart with God’s word. Read, listen, sing,  meditate and obey his word. Maintain a fresh and dynamic prayer life. If you had lost signal, like a GPS system recalculate and find your signal again. If you have been at same level for a long time grow towards maturity upgrade to  find the signal that matches your next level and current situation.  Allow God to put correct settings in your heart and antennae. Down load the necessary drivers through prayer and fasting. Make his fascinating and empowering channel your favorite. He watches your channel 24/7 despite it being often boring.  See yourself on his channel and you will be encouraged to know your new identity and position with God.  

Message by Dr. Kurai Chitima.

Faith Ministries – Johannesburg Faith Life Center.

Ground and First Floors Sunset Bay Building,

204B Bram Fischer drive,

Randburg, Johannesburg, South Africa

Hanging out with Jesus XV: Bread is also for you

Hanging out with Jesus XV: Bread is also for you

But Jesus said unto her , Let the children first be filled : for it is not meet to take the children’s bread , and to cast it unto the dogs .  But she answered and saith unto him, Yes, Lord; even the dogs under the table eat of the children’s crumbs (Mark 7:27, 28).

Clean hearts

Mark Chapter 7 begins with Jesus tackling a challenge from the Pharisees. This time they complained that he allowed his disciples to eat bread with unwashed hands. One must hasten to point out that the washing of hands was not in the hygienic sense but the ceremonial washing necessary for purity to approach God who is without any defilement (Isaiah 6:5).  They however held on to an Old Testament practice (Leviticus) but lost its essence. They even had added to the practice elements not in the Old Testament law but were just  tradition developed over time. Jesus agreed with the need to get clean but differed on the prescription. He seized the opportunity to redirect their focus from the cleaning of hands to that of hearts. The law was about hearts not hands.

He bluntly called them hypocrites. Acts of worship without the heart are hypocritical worship (Mark 7:6-8). Actions and words that  lack the heart are hypocritical. Sadly,  hearts far from God make his word powerless. The person of such a heart remains just with tradition making void the word of God. Religion empties God's word of its power by focusing on the external things at the expense of the inner things. It holds to a form of religion that denies the transforming power of God. It majors on  surface issues at the expense of the deeper. It makes faith irrelevant to what affects people and society. It makes people feel so holy and so busy with ministry to neglect relationships and responsibilities, so focused about church group to ignore your neighbor and even so careful about morality to forget the cross.

The heart is the fountain and laboratory of all good and bad.   The way you handle eating is governed by the condition if heart. When heart is right, hands and eating will be right.  The heart determines readiness to approach God. ‘For from within , out of the heart of men , proceed evil thoughts , adulteries , fornications , murders ,   Thefts , covetousness , wickedness , deceit , lasciviousness , an evil eye , blasphemy , pride , foolishness’ 

Who qualifies for Bread

From the subject of eating bread without washed hands  the narrative moved to the subject of who qualifies to eat the bread of the children.   A Syrophonician woman tested the beliefs. She fell  at the feet of Jesus and begged that he delivered her daughter from demonic possession. She may have been following him (Mathew 15:26) and knew him as a man who was caring as well as able to help her situation.  Jesus replied with words that would have discouraged many if not make them furious with anger. 

‘But Jesus said unto her , Let the children first be filled : for it is not meet to take the children’s bread , and to cast it unto the dogs (Mark 7:27, 28).

Miracles were children’s bread. In the context, the children were the Jews.  Paul said ‘For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ : for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth ; to the Jew first , and also to the Greek .’   The gospel was to the Jew first. But not exclusive – it was also to the Greek. 

At Jesus’ words the woman could have felt rejected and excluded.  She could have said my daughter is also a child. She could have felt so undeserving to stand up and go away. Often we think Jesus should do for us  what we ask. For a Greek to receive help from Jesus was not a right but an act of grace. She approached Jesus unassumingly in her expectations. She was without an entitlement attitude.  She could have felt dishonored by being called a dog. A dog is a dog, whether it is a pampered household pet or a street wild.  A dog is a dog, even if called that softly and tenderly.  She could have felt provoked, insulted and offended. She could have allowed pride to rise up and retort how can this happen to me. How dare he say that.  She could have made up her mind to never ask for help again. 

However she was different. She was not offended like the people of Nazareth and the Pharisees.  Her heart was not defiled.

She answered and saith unto him, Yea, Lord; even the dogs under the table eat of the children’s crumbs.  

Jesus commended her response and saw it as enough reason to give her the bread of the children. By her words and attitude she turned offense to something positive. She demonstrated what power can come out of a heart that is right. What came out of her heart brought her in and earned her healing for her daughter. It accomplished what washed hands could not.  What a lesson to the Jews present who may have said big ‘amens’ to his first statement to her. A  lesson to non Jews also, while tradition could exclude even the Jews from God’s life, faith could include even the excluded non Jews.

SHE showed three marks of faith and intercession.

>>Humility

From the beginning she threw herself at his feet. She had nothing to protect if she could save her daughter.  You can also fall at his feet in prayer. Jesus can however be deliberately scandalous – throwing stumbling blocks in people’s way.  No one likes being called hypocrites, an evil generation, whitewashed tombs, or dogs.     But with humility and trust beyond the scandal is salvation. ONE must overcome the scandal to find Jesus' heart.  Sometimes the stumble is a delayed answer, not preferred answer, an answer unlike others got, insufficient detail,  something you do not immediately understand, different view, or his denials.  Faced with a stumbling block, she appealed to his character. She thought I trust your heart and whatever you say is as good as your heart. Do what you want, one thing I know you are compassionate even towards dogs because that’s your nature.

How much can pass through your relationship with Jesus before it breaks. On his side, nothing can do it (Romans 8). How about on your side, refuse to be the weak link in the chain that breaks the chain despite the rest being strong. 

>>Tough Skin

She had wisdom and a tough skin. She showed great character by not being  offended easily. A tough skin can ward off offence. It will not allow arrows of offense to stick or reach the heart. She was not an overly sensitive person. She did  not allow offence to go inside to defile the heart. She was rich in heart. Her heart was tender to allow patience, wisdom, and kindness to come out.  She knew where the solution  was – in Jesus alone. Like the disciples when everyone fled the scandal when Jesus figuratively invited them to eat is flesh and drink his blood (John 6). The disciples said where can we go to - you have the words of life.  The fool says there is help apart from God.  She was humble and wise. She did not fight Jesus but agreed with a ‘yes’ and she was not disrespectful she said Lord. She expanded on the illustration he gave about dogs and children. And reasoned with him that domesticated dogs also ate crumbs under the table. They belonged to the house also. 

>>Desperation

She was also desperate for  the sake of her daughter. She had come to the end of her wits. She had burnt bridges to any other source.  Jesus’ words sounded as cold rejections, but really they turned out to be a precious opportunity to elicit greater faith and dependence from the woman. They made her reach deep to the best quality of faith for the kind of miracle she wanted. She was childlike in her faith.  She did not despise the crumbs under the tables and resultantly was brought to eat with children what was on the table. She must have remembered that Jesus valued crumbs since he collected crumbs when he fed the 5000. She must have got the revelation that the crumbs of God are God sized and good enough.  And all this for another person. What a demonstration of the power of intercession. You can only persuade because you know the character of the person and believe there is chance to win. Her faith qualified her for a seat at the table. You do not belong under the table today you can also join the party if you learn from this woman.

Message by Dr. Kurai Chitima.

Faith Ministries – Johannesburg Faith Life Center.

Ground and First Floors Sunset Bay Building,

204B Bram Fischer drive,

Randburg, Johannesburg, South Africa

Hanging out with Jesus XIV: Imaginary Ghosts Kill

Hanging out with Jesus XIV:  Imaginary Ghosts Kill

Mark 6:6-56 key verse... key verse 6:46

In the last message, we saw how only a few were healed in Jesus' hometown because of their unbelief. The few healings were not considered mighty works (6:5). Today a few healed is mighty works - are we in Nazareth? You do not want to be of Capernaum either. People of Capernaum had faith for mighty works and not for eternity (Luke 10:15).

In Nazareth, the disciples saw such poor response for the first time in their walk with Jesus. They needed this advanced training in faith, i.e., things do not always flow and happen the way and time you want. This was indeed a big lesson. Jesus’ example was that despite the poor response to his claims and ministry he continued to teach patiently in their villages.  He modeled resilience in the face of obstacles. Instead of quitting, he intensified his work of love. He identified unbelief as a barrier to reaching his own people and provided the solution (Romans 10:17). God's word is the cure for unbelief.  When God identifies weaknesses in you, he never rules out but comes closer to provide the solution and fill the gaps. He did not only teach but he mobilized his disciples and sent them out.

The disciples experienced another first. Up to this point, the disciples had followed Jesus and watched him share good news and do mighty works. Chapter 6 presents a new development - Jesus sending out his disciples to go in twos to do what they had seen him do. This decision was all part of the advanced School Of faith to prepare them for his departure. At the heart of discipleship is bringing up people in their walk with Christ to a point where they stand on their own and do greater works. He intensified and upgraded his mighty works to greater works. For to Jesus, when disciples are released greater works than his happen (John 14:12). That is the transformational discipleship Jesus is still in the business of. The discipler realizes he will not always be there and the work to be done requires many more than one person. As in parenting, discipleship is about preparing 'children' in the faith to stand on their own and serve their generation. It is not about creating perpetual dependencies. The following are the experiences of the disciples when they were send out:

1) The disciples embraced the commission to go with the gospel without his physical presence (6:6-29). 

They only had his word and faith that he would back his word (Jeremiah 1:12). God has a work to be done by his disciples today. He still commissions them with power over demons, and sicknesses. He still confirms his word with conviction and transformation. He still requires that the disciples trust entirely on him for their upkeep. Provision is in pursuing the vision. God still has people of peace in the mission field to support his disciples in action (6:10).  The mission field is in the communities and market places where his people live and serve.  Identify the people of peace and stay with them.  When the disciples share the gospel clearly and powerfully, they have done their part and can shake dust off their sandals. In other words, leave the choices and their consequences in the hands of those who reject the good news of the kingdom of God. Before Sodom and Gomorrah was destroyed for its sin, it did not have such a chance of someone preaching to them.

The shift to broadened participation by his disciples was such a powerful witness that people had to make a choice. Ghosts appeared in some people's imagination. They had two options - believe Jesus was the messiah, the savior and deliverer or they imagined he was a ghost to explain him away. A ghost is the spirit of a deceased person, which appears to the living. In Nazareth they explained him away as merely human, Joseph’s son. But when the disciples went out the explanation was he was extra human, Elijah or some prophet come back to life - a ghost. Their imagined ghosts kept them from accepting he was the solution, healing, deliverance and life. He was topical even in the corridors of power. King Herod explained Jesus away as John the Baptist come back to life – a ghost. He had beheaded John to please his daughter and wife. Jesus brought conviction about the wrong he had done. When he resisted conviction that would have brought him to repentance it became unbearable guilt and he imagined a ghost. By the way, he could have spared John by reminding his daughter that he had offered only up to the worth of half his kingdom. Sadly, he valued John's life lower than half his kingdom. Unlike Jesus who said one life was more than the gain of the whole world. 

2) The disciples tasted conquest through obedience and gospel proclamation (6:30).

Serving God is the greatest joy on earth. Their testimonies were transformed  from what they received and  saw to what they gave and  did. Testimonies of what was done through them not for them.  They had to adjust their mindset from only being where he was (3:13) to taking him wherever they went as he sent them; from seeing him do things, and they marvel, to producing the marvels. And also, from demanding from him to giving and contributing to his work; from a trust based on seeing him physically to trusting his word. A faith that went where he said go and do what he said do.  They came to report back rejoicing. Sharing what God had done encouraged others and gave opportunity to learn more from Jesus. He reminded them not to lose focus of the main personal thing they had gained already - their names were written in the book of life.  They also needed to be reminded that there was more still undone, and more people to be reached. 

3) The disciples received compassion from Jesus. 'Come rest a while' (6:31-44).

Jesus cared about their well-being. He took note that they had not eaten and rested. Later he would say ‘come and dine’ (John 21:12). He still says the same to his followers and workers.  In him there is rejuvenation, reflection, new strength and refreshment (Mathew 11:28; Hebrews 4:9).

The advanced lesson however was that compassion for those who did not explain Jesus away but sought for him came before convenience of the worker. They meant to take a break but their privacy was invaded and denied. Instead, Jesus out of compassion ministered to the crowd of 5,000 men and the rest of the people. They were tired and yet still received the people. Ministry is not an ego building exercise it's about being compelled by the love of God for people to bare their burdens.  Ministry is not for the lazy selfish fellows looking for the easy way in life.

Jesus also demonstrated that compassion is practical. The people needed something to eat. The disciples also needed to eat. When there was no food, Jesus said to the disciples give them something to eat. Jesus wanted them to know that he was depending on them much as they depended on him. However after they did statistics and costing it was impossible for them to give the people something to eat. They would have sent the hungry people away empty. They could not see that with him they could do greater works. The grace that gave them strength so far could also multiply food. Jesus used the little food they had as seed which when given to him he multiplied to feed all.  Jesus multiplied the five loaves of bread and two fishes through his servants and structure. He prayed, asked for order and the obedience of his disciples.

4) Faced with strong winds the disciples imagined a ghost. (6:45-56).

Unlike the previous voyage when he crossed the sea with them, he instructed his disciples to cross over on their own. In the meantime he  departed into a mountain to pray.  He pilot tested what would happen when he would rise from the dead and ascend to heaven. He would leave them to cross through life without his physical presence.  He would go to pray as their high priest interceding daily for them. In the mountain of prayer he was seeing them (6:48).  They needed to master the lesson to trust his word not just his physical presence. Always remember that even though not present physically Jesus is with you, his prayers are for you and his eyes are upon you. His word is as real as his presence. He was so caring that he watched over them all the time. He is El Roi and Jehovah Shammah. You are not abandoned and not alone.

The advanced lesson was that when faced with storms Jesus calms it in his own supernatural way. When the winds were strong and contrary the disciples must have remembered the previous storm they faced with Jesus in the boat. The memory was haunting as the task they faced was daunting. Then Jesus appeared walking on water.  They thought  we are battling winds and as if not enough a ghost appears surely when it rains it pours.   They wondered what wrong they had done to deserve all this? Bear in mind that what they saw must have looked like Jesus because he was the same person who got into the boat.  But they explained him away as a ghost. Herod mistook him for a ghost. Now disciples later do the same. Imaginary ghosts are feelings and things that exalt themselves above the knowledge of Christ (2  Corinthians 10:4).  To think he was a ghost they must have concluded that he had died when they left him on the shore. Their own understanding was people do not walk on water.  They forgot he was the last Adam (Adam had no bridges in garden of Eden). They also forgot he was the one who made the waters and the winds.

What happens when winds strongly oppose you? Faced with string opposing winds, remember that God is not dead but alive. In a storm, you will see either a ghost or Christ. Faith is ability to see Jesus in the storm. See Jesus, Jehova elgibbor (mighty God) in your storm. One who is able to do all things and often brings rescue in supernatural unexpected ways.

Interestingly, the bible says Jesus intended to; simply, pass by (6:52). Why would he do that? Perhaps he wanted to demonstrate that when you come down the mountain of prayer you could surf on your storms. Or perhaps he just wanted to say assure them that he cared and was watching over them. He may also have wanted to show that he was more powerful than what was causing fear to them and walked on it to stamp his authority. Remember he is the same who said you would walk on scorpions and serpents. Peter also walked on water (Mathew 14:28).

When Jesus appears and you see a ghost you have lost the consciousness of his presence and love. Such imaginary ghosts cause fear and steal his word, joy, hope and peace. And as happened to Herod they stir up guilt and condemnation instead of humility and repentance. In your storm when it looks like a ghost wait ... it could be Jesus. Granted, not all ghosts are Jesus and not all appearances of Jesus are ghostly. Listen to the voice. You will know it is Jesus not a ghost after all. The ghost was not there it was in their mind. Jesus first calmed their fears by saying ‘fear not’.  When he entered the boat, the outside winds ceased.  Welcome him inside your life to deal with winds facing you from outside. Yes receive him in your boat today and the external winds will cease.

Message by Dr. Kurai Chitima.

Faith Ministries – Johannesburg Faith Life Center.

Ground and First Floors Sunset Bay Building,

204B Bram Fischer drive,

Randburg, Johannesburg, South Africa  

Hanging out with Jesus XIII: Jesus and Three Scandals

Hanging out with Jesus XIII: Jesus and Three Scandals

Mark 5:21 to 6:7                        Key verse Mark 5:36

A crowd gathered to meet Jesus at the sea side when he arrived back to Capernaum.  It was not long before three scandals happened. The scandals were a result of faith at work. Yes, faith in God is righteously scandalous. A scandal is something that shocks people because their expected norms or ways of thinking are violated. As a result they say 'this can't be. It is not what we expect'. As a result some are offended (GK. skandalizo -  Mark 6:3) which means they are tripped or stumbled. Behind each scandal cited in this message were people's expectations that were scandalous barriers to what Jesus needed to do and required scandalous faith to pull them down.

As we will see, in one case he said 'thy faith has healed you.' Faith had won.  In another he said 'keep on believing'. Faith also went on to win.  In the other he marveled at their unbelief. Faith was absent. In this last case faith did not show up and its barriers had a walk over.  In the first two cases Jesus was desperately sought for and in the last he was deeply despised in his hometown. The first two cases involved two daughters and the last a homeboy. The first two involved twelve year situations - a young girl at twelve years and a woman sick for twelve years and the last case ended with the sending out of the twelve.

Scandal 1: A synagogue leader fell before Jesus (Mark 5:21 -24, 35 – 43)

Jairus the synagogue leader  teaches the importance of humility in faith. For him to fall at the feet of Jesus he had to break down an internal barrier of pride. What he did was scandalous among his Jewish peers who were vicious critics of Jesus and thought he was a lunatic distorting their religion and misleading people. As ruler of the synagogue he was also a town leader. You would not expect him among a sea side crowd.  All eyes were therefore on him. People wanted to see what he would do. From what angle had he come to quiz Jesus so they thought? He was a man of high social position, a man known among the people, a man of wealth, prestige and power. Despite all this high profile he was a man who had a desperate need- his daughter was dying. You will never become so powerful, so popular and rise so high that problems and troubles cannot reach you. Jairus must have tried all solutions within the norms and his means to no avail.  He had suffered sleepless nights. He had shed many tears. He had watched his daughter get worse and worse. Until he got to a point where every advantage he had was meaningless and he decided to count it as a loss. Even if it meant being fired from the synagogue he decided to fall at Jesus' feet and cried for him to come to his home and lay hands on his daughter who was at the point of death.

As the crowd followed Jesus to Jairus’ house, a woman needing healing delayed the march. A devastating turn of events then happens. News arrived that the daughter was no longer sick but deceased. No need to bother the master anymore. All hope is lost.  When bad news comes faith is at test. Jesus encouraged Jairus’ faith by saying 'Do not be afraid keep on believing or keep on having faith in God’. Do not limit God even at the last minute or when it seems all is lost. The fact always is the enemy has not triumphed. No problem can be bad, big and late enough to stop God. Remember the resurrection of stories of Lazarus (John 11) and of The Lord. When going through difficulties you need someone to remind you of the importance of keeping faith. Keep reading bible, eyes on Jesus, praying and obeying.

Negative facts and events threaten faith but his word calms all fears. At Jairus’ Jesus found the professional mourners best at their trade. He announced the girl was only  asleep to which they became professional mockers as they laughed him to scorn.  The last laughter is however always reserved for him. He selected three disciples and the parents to accompany him to where the girl was.  There are places with Jesus  you can't go with a multitude. With 'thalita kouhm' - 'little girl arise' he raised the girl  to life again.

The ruler was not ashamed to seek Jesus, and more so, bring him to his home. He did not send his wife or someone else but he sought for the Lord himself. His humility paid wonders. Are you humble enough to surrender your situation to Jesus?  Is Jesus welcome into your home?   To climb up to Jesus you have to climb down from self (1 Peter 5:6, 7). Cry out to Jesus today. Look to heaven - don't wait to be forced to look to God when they put you in a coffin. Jairus at his wits' end cried out to Jesus (Psalm 107:6, 13, 18-22). There are times when antics must give way to charismatics.

Scandal 2: An untouchable woman touched Jesus (Mark 5:24 – 35)

This woman who suffered from an issue of blood illustrates determination in faith. She had to overcome external regulatory and physical barriers. She pressed through from the periphery to Jesus at the center of the crowd. This was scandalous because as a woman with issue of blood she wasrendered unclean by law and was not mix freely with other people. In addition by losing blood she was losing her life. She had suffered twelve  years and had been to many doctors to no avail. Her health condition was deteriorating. She heard that Jesus was passing by going to heal a daughter whose father had pleaded with Jesus on her behalf. She wished she also had such a father.  Quickly her  faith raised her from wishful thinking to setting her mind to touching the garment of Jesus. She believed if she only touched the garment she would be healed. Overcoming the obstacles, she achieved her goal and was healed.

The good news is that if no one touches you, you can still touch him.  Many were pushing and pressing but she touched.  Unlimited grace is waiting for the touch of faith. She could not secretly go away. Jesus called her out and also reminded she also had a caring father by saying 'DAUGHTER your faith has made you whole'.  You also have a caring Father.  Jehovah Shammah ...  Jehova who is there.

Scandal 3: A familiar home boy who is Messiah (Mark 6: 1 – 7)

Jesus' home town experience is an example of what familiarity does to faith.  He spoke at the Synagogue. The place must have been packed. Donkeys could not find stalls (or parking). The many people however failed to overcome the barrier of unbelief. Their familiarity  as relatives and people well acquainted with Jesus' family background and upbringing as an ordinary child bred contempt and dishonor towards him. They appreciated the wisdom and the power he displayed  but rejected him as the vessel. Many are stumbled by the humble people,  ways and  forms God chooses to use. They found Jesus to be too common and ordinary for their take.  His demonstration of mighty works and claim to being messiah (Luke 4:14-31) were seriously scandalous to them.  They raised questions. Who does he think he is? Who is he trying to be? What is suddenly special about him? He is just like us. We know even his parents and brothers. They saw Jesus and his claims as scandalous.  In the process they were stumbled and  lost the benefit of the wisdom and power Jesus had brought. 

Jesus marveled at their unbelief and could only do a few miracles. He was there for the troubled, lame, poor, sick, and demon oppressed in Nazareth but sadly they disapproved his authority. In the Gospel of Luke (Luke 4:14-31), Jesus commented that in the Old Testament faith was often to be found outside Israel. For example there were many lepers in Israel during Elisha’s time but it was Naaman of Syria who was healed. Jesus gave the people of Nazareth an opportunity - an open door and they shunned it.  The door is also open for you today.  If you can only believe all things are possible. Jesus promised to be with you, to work on you and through you.

Message by Dr. Kurai Chitima.

Faith Ministries – Johannesburg Faith Life Center.

Ground and First Floors Sunset Bay Building,

204B Bram Fischer drive,

Randburg, Johannesburg, South Africa