Break free with an absolute Jesus. The story of how Jesus treated an adulterous woman reveals a gracious and absolute savior. God himself in human form. He is not trapped by human agendas, doesn’t conform to human expectations, or is limited by human understanding.
Break free with an absolute Jesus. He is not trapped by human agendas
Now in the Law, Moses commanded us to stone such women. So what do you say? This they said to test him, that they might have some charge to bring against him. (ESV, John 8:5-6)
A group of religious leaders sought to trap Jesus in a religious quandry. And they presented to him an ironclad case. A woman caught in the act of adultery. And then they self-righteously quoted the law of Moses. The penalty for it was death by stoning. What did he say?
The irony? They didn’t care about the woman or the law. Only their agenda. And that was to discredit Jesus as a rising, religious teacher. They didn’t accept him as the Son of God. But simply an itinerant upstart trying to replace them on the pedestal of religious prestige.
Of course, Jesus knew the law too. And recognized the trap. So, he dismantled their agenda with a reverse move. He addressed the sin in their own hearts.
“Let him who is without sin among you be the first to throw a stone at her.” (ESV, John 8:7)
Jesus understood that human agendas arise within a sinful, human heart. It quickly condemns the sins of others, but is blind to its own. And the most glaring? The sin of pride represented by self-righteousness.
But Jesus doesn’t merely see through human agendas. He transcends them. Because he’s after something more imporatant. Our hearts. This is where he focuses his attention.
Break free with an absolute Jesus. He does not conform to human expectations
Jesus didn’t conform to the expectations of the religious establishment. And it infuriated them. Because he wasn’t the Messiah they expected. Therefore, they rejected him.
The religious leaders in this story thoroughly knew God’s law. Or at least their version of it. And if Jesus was really God, he would have to support it. Because the law was clear. The woman was guilty and the penalty was death.
The problem? We all are guilty of sin and sentenced to death. Only by God’s grace are we saved. We consistently miss this when we try to conform God to our expectations. Instead, we should conform our thinking to the mind of God.
Furthermore, the religious leaders missed the whole intent of the law. Rather than the humanly devised, legalistic version they followed, it was embraced and expressed by the heart. Confronted with their own sin, the religious leaders dropped the rocks in their hands and left one by one until only Jesus and the woman remained. His words to her were full of grace, but with a new action plan. “Neither do I condemn you. Go and sin no more.”
Jesus is the path of reconcilliation. The beacon of grace. And fountain of forgiveness. He offered all of them to the woman. And does the same for us today.
Break free with an absolute Jesus. He is not limited by human understanding
Everyone knew the woman was guilty of adultery and the consequence for it. But her accusers all left. And Jesus offered her grace. Why?
Because that is why he came. Not to establish a physical kingdom like the religious leaders expected, but a spiritual one. To offer grace rather than condemnation. And redeem rather than punish. But we have to make a choice.
The woman could return to her old life she knew or follow Jesus and break free from bondage. We don’t know what she decided. But Jesus presents the same offer today.
Which choice will you make?
About Chip Tudor:
Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.This blog is originally published here.
Three life transforming New Year practices. These simple practices do not work immediately. But when consistently engaged, the spiritual transformation is unmistakeable. I’ve seen and personally experienced it. And so will you if you practice them this year.
Three life transforming New Year practices. Read through the Bible.
I have stored up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you. (ESV, Psalm 119:11)
The Bible is a complete narrative. The big picture that reveals who God is, explains what is wrong with the world and his solution. It describes the many facets of God’s incomprehensible nature and yet, his reliable faithfulness to those who seek him. And how to live a life that honors him.
An internet search provides a wide variety of reading plans. Organized differently by chronology, themes, and book genre. I followed one that alternated between Old and New Testament and included a grid of all the passages I checked off to track my progress.
As God’s word fills your heart and mind, you will gain an entirely new perspective on life. One filled with hope.
Three life transforming New Year practices. Attend a church that worships God and teaches the Bible as absolute truth
All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, (ESV, 2 Timothy 3:16)
For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. (ESV, Hebrews 4:12)
Absolute truth is the solid foundation that your beliefs and convictions confidently rest on. An anchor that secures you from drifting aimlessly on the waves of public opinion. And worship points you to the ultimate source of truth. An Almighty God that loves you and desires a relationship with you.
As you worship God and learn his word, his Spirit guides you on a path that leads you into his will and plan for your life. One with meaning, purpose, and direction. And an eternal perspective that helps you make sense of a confusing world.
Three life transforming New Year practices. Hang out with people that wholeheartedly follow Jesus
Do not be deceived: “Bad company ruins good morals.” (ESV, 1 Corinthians 15:33)
And though a man might prevail against one who is alone, two will withstand him—a threefold cord is not quickly broken. (ESV, Ecclesiastes 4:12)
We are made to live in community. Ideas of “doing it my way” or individual autonomy as a “rock and island” are myths. We all need other people for encouragement, accountability, and support. And the friends you choose will influence you for either good or bad. And in the same way, you will impact others.
Therefore, those who follow Jesus will find that loving, supportive environment in a church community. But it may take personal initiative on your part. In other words, an effort to meet and make friends with the people that attend your church.
And when you walk together as Christ-followers, you are relationally more than friends. But spiritually unified as an eternal family of brothers and sisters in Christ.
A spiritual adversary will work to divert you from these practices. But press on and a remarkable transformation will take place in your life.
About Chip Tudor:
Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.This blog is originally published here.
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God’s path to peace is a journey fraught with conflicts. A perplexity of perils. Some self-made. Others forced on us. Complicated by forks in the road leading nowhere. And anxious moments beyond our control. Yet, God provides a way.
God’s path to peace. It’s based on a right relationship with God
But he was pierced for our transgressions; he was crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace, and with his wounds we are healed. (ESV, Isaiah 53:5)
Contrary to popular belief, peace is not an absence of conflict. Because conflict surrounds us on planet earth. And the search for inner peace is a plunge into futility. Because there too, an internal conflict rages in an eternal fight for our souls. Therefore, peace is not found within, or uncovered as a hidden treasure in the world. But rather, a gift from above.
Sin fosters rebellious spirits against God. And we are powerless against. So, the storm rages on.
And yet, 2,000 years ago in the city of David, a savior was born. Christ the Lord. He died on a cross as a sacrifice for our sin to reconcile us to God. And in this restored relationship we find true peace.
God’s path to peace. It seeks a right relationships with others
If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. (ESV, Romans 12:18)
The Apostle Paul endured conflicts his entire ministry. Beaten, flogged, shipwreck, stoned, and thrown in prison multiple times. And he survived murder plots by the grace of God. Through it all, he proclaimed the name of Jesus Christ. And encouraged Christ-followers to live at peace with others.
Of course, the presence of sin makes complete peace impossible. Still, God’s word provides his rules and instructions on how to navigate the complexity of human relationships as smoothly as possible. Even advice on handling a slap to the face.
Obviously, we can’t control others. But we can control ourselves. And while that too, is not always a sure thing, God’s redeeming grace covers us when we totally blow it. Along with the assurance that his mercies are new every morning, and one day Christ will return to end the chaos. And God’s peace will reign.
God’s path to peace. Final peace is an eternal reward
And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. (ESV, Isaiah 9:6)
Christmas celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ who saves us from sin. He defeats the internal conflict that plagues every person. And heals the troubled soul with his soothing presence that rules the heart.
And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (ESV, Philippians 4:7)
So on Christmas we celebrate his first arrival and eagerly await the next. When he will end all conflict and establish a final reign of peace. And why we joyfully say…
MERRY CHRISTMAS!
About Chip Tudor:
Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.This blog is originally published here.
Why God allows pain. It’s not because he likes to see us hurt. But to remind us it’s a consequence of sin. To help us grow in character. And show us the way to a better life.
Why God allows pain. To remind us it’s a consequence of sin.
I will surely multiply your pain in childbearing; in pain you shall bring forth children. (ESV, Genesis 3:16)
Cursed is the ground because of you; in pain you shall eat of it all the days of your life; thorns and thistles it shall bring forth for you; and you shall eat the plants of the field. (ESV, Genesis 3:17)
Adam and Eve disobeyed God by eating the forbidden fruit in the Garden of Eden. The first sinful act of humanity. And since then, it has multiplied into many forms of evil. Today, the depth and breadth of sin is extraordinary and the pain it causes often unbearable. Not just physically, but emotionally, pschologically, and spiritually.
After Adam and Eve confessed to eating the fruit, God told them it would change everything in the world. And it did. Today, it’s clear the world and all people in it are broken. Especially in our relationship with God. Sin caused it. And pain is a result. Although God offers a solution.
But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. (ESV, Romans 5:8)
By accepting Jesus as Lord and savior our relationship with God is restored. We won’t escape pain on earth. But that too will end.
Why God allows pain. He uses it to grow our character
Though the Lord give you the bread of adversity and the water of affliction, yet your Teacher will not hide himself anymore, but your eyes shall see your teacher. And your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, “This is the way walk in it,” when you turn to the right or when you turn to the left. (ESV, Isaiah 30:20-21)
Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us. (ESV, Romans 5:3-5)
Sin is too pervasive to completely escape pain on earth. But we can lessen it by following Jesus and obeying God’s word. Jesus does not over burden us and the Bible is not a rule book that eliminates all our fun. But an instruction manual for our benefit that shows us how to live purpose filled lives in healthy relationship with God and others.
God also uses pain to grow our character. Learn patience. And remind us we are not self-sufficient. Because pain encourages us to lean on God’s strength. See His care for us and the world with greater clarity. And gain new perspectives on life.
Furthermore, physical pain is a form of self-protection. A safety warning to avoid serious injury and even death. But perhaps we should consider life without pain. Would we recognize the extent of our sinful condition and brokeness without it? Or maybe settle for “this is as good as it gets” and simply accept it?
Why God allows pain. He uses it to show us a better life
And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose. (ESV, Romans 8:28)
Pain makes us seek relief. And look to God for a better life. Because when you’re collapsed at the bottom of the pit of pain, the only direction to look is up.
It also reminds us that very little in life is actually in our control. We are vulnerable and dependent on God’s grace. But He generously extends it to those who seek Him and ask for it. And it’s in the times of our greatest weakness that God reveals His strength. Showers us with mercy. And demonstrates His love.
Of course, we don’t look for pain. Or welcome it. But by exercising our faith and leaning of God, we spiritually benefit from it. And there is a hope that fuels our perseverance through it. For those who place their faith and trust in Jesus, there is a final release from pain. Along with an everlasting life in heaven.
He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away. (ESV, Revelation 21:4)
About Chip Tudor:
Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.This blog is originally published here.
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The character of godly leaders. Around 444 B.C. wealthy Jewish landowners were confronted about their unfair financial practices against Jewish farmers. They responded in a godly manner and made things right before God and their Jewish brothers. Here’s the story.
The character of godly leaders. They are accountable
Now there arose a great outcry of the people and of their wives against their Jewish brothers. We are forcing our sons and daughters to be slaves, and some of our daughters have already been enslaved, but it is not in our power to help it, for other men have our fields and our vineyards. They were silent and could not find a word to say. (ESV, Nehemiah 5:1,5,8)
What happens to a nation when people prey unfairly on one another? It’s weakened from within by creating a ruling class that beats down the middle class. This was the case around 444 B.C among the Israelites. Nehemiah was the governor of Judah and leading an effort to rebuild the wall around Jerusalem.
But in the middle of construction, an outcry arose among the common people. They were over burdened by the financial burden placed on them from the landowners–their Jewish brothers. So, Nehemiah gathered everyone together to address the situation and charged the landowners to give an account for their actions.
Did the landowners defend their cause? Hire attorneys to clear their names? Hide their money in offshore accounts? No. They were silent before Nehemiah and allowed themselves to be held accountable.
The character of godly leaders. They admit when they’re wrong and make amends
Then they said, “We will restore these and require nothing from them. We will do as you say. And the people did as they promised. (ESV, Nehemiah 5:12 & 13)
The leaders were silent before Nehemiah because they were guilty and knew it. And rather than run from it, they faced it. They vowed to make amends and followed through on their actions.
Of course, leaders are not perfect. And the lure of power and money is a significant corrupting influence. Furthermore, none of us like to admit when we’re wrong. Yet, even though it’s hard and painful to do, leaders with character admit when they are wrong and correct their actions. In other words, they repent. Which simply means turn away from sin and turn towards righteousness.
And this requires humility. But as a result, people are more likely to respect and trust your leadership as you build a healthy, thriving community.
The character of godly leaders. They lead to benefit others and not themselves
Even their servants lorded it over the people. But I did not do so because of the fear of God. I did not demand the food allowance of the governor, because the service was too heavy on this people. (ESV, Nehemiah 5:15, 18)
Nehemiah was not a power grabber. In fact, he operated with a level of transparent integrity that clearly demonstrated a selfless heart. He used his personal finances to pay for his meals rather than use his government budget in order to lighten the tax burden on the people.
Today, we commonly see political leaders use their positions to increase their power and personal wealth. And it was true in the ancient world too. But Nehemiah chose to demonstrate leadership that was transparent and above reproach. Because he genuinely wanted to lead in a manner that benefited his people. He practiced a life of integrity for a clear conscience before God and the people he led. The example he and the Jewish landowners set in this story from thousands of years ago is a good model for godly leaders today.
About Chip Tudor:
Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.This blog is originally published here.
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