http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/index.htmlDevelop the godly habit of having a daily time in the word of God.enBrian FelushkoCopyright 2008 Vancouver Church of Christ2008-04-20T11:35:50-07:00 hourly 1 2000-01-01T12:00+00:00 Mon, 14 Apr 2008 11:36:28 -0700Brian FelushkoDaily Walk Series2008-04-20T11:35:50-07:00http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/5fc78fd8514612a517f599a42782de95-104.html#unique-entry-id-104http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/5fc78fd8514612a517f599a42782de95-104.html#unique-entry-id-104• New Testament Reading: John 12:1-50
• Old Testament Passage: Isaiah 6:1-10
• Points to Ponder

“To Fulfill the Word of Isaiah the Prophet”

As the word spread that Jesus had raised Lazarus from the dead many went out to meet Jesus and
many put their faith in him. His enemies could not deny that he who had died was now alive. Yet
the case could be made that if his miracles were such convincing proof of his deity then why didn’t
everyone believe?

Some of the recognized Messianic prophesies actually predict that there would be those who would
not believe. It was no one less than Isaiah, whose book contains so many specific and clear
prophecies of the birth, life and death of the Christ. As great a miracle as raising someone from the
dead is, even that can be ignored, dismissed or explained away by those who stubbornly refuse to
believe. Even to people who claimed to believe that their scriptures contained prophecies of the
coming Christ, Lazarus raised from the dead was not enough.

If there is something a person does not want to accept, then he will find reasons to reject the
evidence for it and reasons to accept the evidence against it. The popularity today of books that
dismiss the historical accuracy of the gospel accounts, in contrast to the popularity of those that
provide evidence of their historicity, is proof that most people are looking for every reason not to
believe.

• Questions to Consider: What things blind people’s eyes from seeing, and deaden their hearts
from understanding, the evidence supporting Christianity’s claim that Jesus is the Christ, the
Son of God? What would God want us to do with someone who has heard the truth, perhaps
several times, but refuses to believe?]]>Brian FelushkoDaily Walk Series2008-04-19T11:34:50-07:00http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/6039ea3c569026fc97f270d20591b4b6-103.html#unique-entry-id-103http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/6039ea3c569026fc97f270d20591b4b6-103.html#unique-entry-id-103• New Testament Reading: John 11:1-57
• Old Testament Passage: Ecclesiastes 9:1-6
• Points to Ponder

“I Am the Resurrection and the Life”

Many so-called miracles can be faked. So many modern “miracle workers” have been exposed as
frauds. Real miracles are obviously miraculous - something that obviously defies the laws of nature.
No doubt many thought that Jesus’ miracles were feats of magic or slight of hand. But how do you
deny the miracle of raising someone from the dead, especially when that person died and was buried
four days ago. Lazarus’ death and burial had been witnessed by dozens, if not hundreds, of family,
friends and fellow Jews. Jesus, purposely delayed his response to his sisters’ plea to come to his
friend’s aid. “Lazarus is dead,” Jesus said, “and for your sake I am glad I was not there, so that you
may believe.” Once again, we see that the purpose of Jesus’ miracles was to create faith in those who
witnessed or heard. See 11:14, 42, 45, 48; 12:10-11, 18.

Questions to Consider: As Jesus asked Martha (11:25-26), so Jesus asks you, “Do you believe this?”
If one were to really believe this, how would it affect his approach to life and to death? Sometimes
Jesus calls us to do things that don’t make sense at the moment, or have an outcome that seems
uncertain or even negative to us. What did Jesus say to Martha when she hesitated to obey him?
Have you seen the glory of God in your life lately?]]>Brian FelushkoDaily Walk Series2008-04-18T11:33:54-07:00http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/192c4e19a881d0c8a34624d2933a2cdd-102.html#unique-entry-id-102http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/192c4e19a881d0c8a34624d2933a2cdd-102.html#unique-entry-id-102• New Testament Readings: John 10:1-42
• Old Testament Passage: Genesis 1:26; 11:7
• Points to Ponder

“I and the Father are One”

If it is established that Jesus really lived and that he claimed to be God’s Son, our options regarding
his identity are limited. Either he is who he claimed to be or he is not. If he is not who he claimed
to be then either he lied or he was self-deceived. The latter, however, is not really a logical
conclusion, because he did not act or speak like someone who was “demon-possessed” or “raving
mad.” He spoke wisdom and truth with authority and humility. Therefore, logically, we are left to
conclude that either he is the Son of God or a colossal fraud!

Once again, Jesus makes a statement, which to us may seem innocent or harmless, but which incited
the Jews to want to stone him: “I and the Father are one”. We don’t have to guess at what he meant
by this, because the Jews’ reaction and their explanation makes it very clear: “We are not stoning you
for any of these,” replied the Jews, “but for blasphemy, because you, a mere mann, claim to be God.”
Jesus didn’t respond to their understanding with a correction or a restatement or even an
explanation. In fact he emphasizes his claim when he says, “Why then do you accuse me of
blasphemy because I said, ‘I am God’s Son.’?” He then points to his miracles as proof of his claim.

• Questions to Consider: It is probably pretty obvious to you by now that the number one
question John the apostle is trying to answer in his gospel has to do with the true identity of
Jesus - Is he really the one and only Son of God? Do you see this as the number one question in
your life? Do you see that answering this question needs to be the number one focus of our
evangelism today? Give reasons for your answer.]]>Brian FelushkoDaily Walk Series2008-04-17T11:32:57-07:00http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/c2901afaf71d35e9224b4b2863a9f4bc-101.html#unique-entry-id-101http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/c2901afaf71d35e9224b4b2863a9f4bc-101.html#unique-entry-id-101• New Testament Reading: John 9:1-41
• Old Testament Passage: Isaiah 29:17-19
• Points to Ponder

“I Was Blind but Now I See”

“Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?” What a sad way to look at
God’s working among men! What a limited view the disciples had, not only of God, but of people
with physical disabilities! Are we any different? Or do we see the challenges people face in life the
way Jesus did: “Neither this man nor his parents sinned...but this happened so that the work of God
might be displayed in his life.” In reality, we’re all disabled. None of us is whole as God intended us
to be, but whatever our disabilities, they are an opportunity for God to display his work in us!

God used this man’s life long blindness as an opportunity for many people to be confronted with the
truth of Jesus’ identity. His healing was instantaneous, complete and lasting. He was blind, but now
he could see. Try to imagine that for a moment! He had never seen anything in his life and then all
of a sudden, having obeyed Jesus’ command to wash in the Pool of Siloam, he came home seeing!
What was that like for him and his parents? How could anybody close to that situation not also
come home believing?

The blind man became convinced. The parents, because of their fear, and the Pharisees, because of
their pride, refused to believe. But the once-blind man’s logic that lead him to belief once he found
out who Jesus was, is irrefutable, and his courage, is admirable and worthy of imitation (see 9:24-34).
Bottom line: who else could someone be who could heal a man born blind than the Son of God?

• Questions to Consider: Many people who claim they can see, are actually blind to the truth
about Jesus. What are some reasons why, in spite of the evidence, that many refuse to believe
that Jesus is the Christ?]]>Brian FelushkoDaily Walk Series2008-04-16T11:31:56-07:00http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/76da5902594462180ffb1e0b01e1e3eb-100.html#unique-entry-id-100http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/76da5902594462180ffb1e0b01e1e3eb-100.html#unique-entry-id-100• New Testament Reading: John 8:1-59
• Old Testament Passage: Exodus 3:11-15
• Points to Ponder

“Before Abraham Was Born, I Am!”

Jesus is on the witness stand being cross-examined by the prosecution. This is high energy court
room action as exciting as any scene from “Law & Order”. The Pharisees are going after Jesus and
Jesus just isn’t backing down. He stands by his claims and calls himself and his Father as witnesses.
They challenge him on being his own witness and question him as who is his father. After telling
them that he can be his own witness and that they don’t know his Father, he says, “If you do not
believe that I am, you will indeed die in your sins” (8:24). [Note: “the one I claim to be” in the NIV
is not in the Greek text.] He responded to the Pharisees so effectively and frustrated their cross
examination such that “even as he spoke many put their faith in him” (8:30).

Jesus responds to their objections by telling them that they are not Abraham’s descendants, God is
not their Father, and that in fact, their father is the devil because they speak his language - lies! To
all these claims, the Pharisees respond with some form of the question, “Who do you think you are?”
Then Jesus says it again, “Before Abraham was born, I am!” (8:58). The Pharisees are done with
questions - he’s said it twice now and there’s no mistaking what he means. Jesus claims that he is the
One who met Moses in the burning bush, that his is Jehovah God in the flesh! In the Pharisee’s
minds he is guilty of blasphemy and deserves to die.

• Questions to Consider: Any even somewhat objective truth seeker cannot deny that
according to the gospel accounts, Jesus claimed to be God. Since he claimed to be God, what are
the only two logical conclusions a person must choose from? What would say to the people who
say that Jesus was a prophet, but not the Son of God?]]>Brian FelushkoDaily Walk Series2008-04-15T11:31:07-07:00http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/f4e60aa70ff651c0c32838a897e9c113-99.html#unique-entry-id-99http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/f4e60aa70ff651c0c32838a897e9c113-99.html#unique-entry-id-99• New Testament Reading: John 6:53-7:52
• Old Testament Passage: Numbers 14:11
• Points to Ponder

“Many of His Disciples Turned Back”

It is the confident attorney who will bring up evidence that seems to support the case against his
client. Yet that’s exactly what John does - not only here but in many places. He faced the objections
and arguments against Jesus head on as he attempted to convince his readers that these were of no
real substance. It’s as if the prosecution said, “If Jesus is really who he claims to be then why did so
many people not believe in and follow him? He lost many disciples. Even his family mocked his
claims. And certainly none of the chief priests and Pharisees ever gave credence to this deceiver.”

John explained that Jesus lost many followers because he refused to compromise his expectations for
his disciples. Jesus wasn’t into quantity, but quality. Any one who did not truly believe that he was
“the Holy One of God” would, sooner or later, quit, because, for them, his teachings were too hard.
His brothers would eventually come around and not all the Pharisees were convinced that Jesus was a
fraud.

In fact, the debate among the people raged on. The crowds were actually divided as to his true
identity and nature. Some did side with their leaders and even declared, “You are demon-possessed.”
Some remained uncertain, but there were many who said, “He is the Christ.”

• Questions to Consider: What arguments do people use today to support their claim that
Jesus was, at best, nothing more than a religious teacher? This is what Christianity is all about -
the true identity and nature of Jesus. Faith in Jesus as “the Holy One of God” is the foundation
for true discipleship. How solid is your foundation?]]>Brian FelushkoDaily Walk Series2008-04-14T11:30:19-07:00http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/7a1e040069c800980ee780097d68973b-98.html#unique-entry-id-98http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/7a1e040069c800980ee780097d68973b-98.html#unique-entry-id-98• New Testament Reading: John 6:1-52
• Old Testament Passage: Exodus 16:4-5, 13-19
• Points to Ponder

“I Am the Bread of Life”

Two more miracles (6:1-15, 16-24) point unmistakably to the true identity of
Jesus - true miracles done in front of thousands of witnesses that cannot be
denied or explained away. And yet many who saw did not believe; indeed,
they missed the whole point. How can John explain this, for surely the
majority is correct in their assessment that Jesus was just “the son of Joseph,
whose father and mother we know? How can he now say, ‘I have come down from heaven’?”

Jesus’ words show the superficiality of their motivation. They didn’t believe because they weren’t
looking for the Messiah. They were following him so they could get physical food, not so they could
be fed spiritually. Their god was their stomach (see Philippians 3:19). They followed Jesus in a
physical sense seeking material rewards. They didn’t care who he really was so long as he would
continue to feed them. That’s why they didn’t understand and didn’t accept his challenge: that he
was the bread sent by God and he was the bread they needed to eat! What an interesting and
powerful analogy for what it means to truly believe and follow Jesus: we must eat Jesus!

• Questions to Consider: If you are already a Christian, what are your reasons for continuing
to follow Jesus? Could your belief in and commitment to Jesus be described in this way, that you
are feeding on his flesh? Before you answer, make sure you read the Old Testament account of
the manna and draw some spiritual parallels.]]>Brian FelushkoDaily Walk Series2008-04-13T04:03:31-07:00http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/0b50049f5246f5d006a7988696e0007f-97.html#unique-entry-id-97http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/0b50049f5246f5d006a7988696e0007f-97.html#unique-entry-id-97• New Testament Reading: John 5:16-47
• Old Testament Passage: Psalm 118:19-29
• Points to Ponder

“I Tell You the Truth”

Sometimes the best thing a defense lawyer can do is to call the accused to the stand, if indeed he is a
credible witness. In this case, it is essential that people hear from Jesus himself for at least two
reasons: 1) to establish clearly what Jesus claimed for himself, and; 2) to find out from Jesus why he
thinks people should believe that he is who he claimed to be.

In John 15:16-30, Jesus very clearly claims to be equal with God. What he says may not seem like
that much to us, but look carefully at the Jews’ response. He knew what he said and they knew what
he meant and when he answers them he continues to call God his Father. In addition, he makes
claims that only one who considered himself to be God would claim. There are those today who
would say that Jesus never claimed to be God, yet in every gospel account and in Acts and from the
earliest extra-biblical Christian writings we have, it is obvious that Jesus’ claims to deity were not an
later addition.

Since Jesus claimed to be God, there are only three possible conclusions open to us: 1) He was a liar
(i.e. he knew he wasn’t God, but claimed to be and tried through his words and deeds to deceive
people); 2) He was a lunatic (i.e. he really thought he was God even though he wasn’t), or; 3) He was,
and still is, the Lord God.

It is one thing to claim to be God; it is quite another to prove that claim. Jesus never expected
people to believe him just because he said so. He actually did want people to seriously consider the
evidence. In 5:31-47, he calls us to consider 3 types of evidence: 1) Human testimony (vv. 33-35); 2) The
work he does, i.e, his life, teaching & miracles (vv. 36-38); 3) The scriptures, i.e. OT messianic
prophecies (vv. 39, 45-47). These lines of evidence, along with his resurrection, is all the evidence an
unbiased and sincere truth seeker needs.

• Questions to Consider: Can you think of other times that Jesus claims, directly or indirectly,
to being God in the flesh? Why is it so important to establish that Jesus claimed to be divine?
Which of the lines of evidence is the most convincing to you and why?]]>Brian FelushkoDaily Walk Series2008-04-12T04:02:39-07:00http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/d018bce7084c381ed04e33be462a63cb-96.html#unique-entry-id-96http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/d018bce7084c381ed04e33be462a63cb-96.html#unique-entry-id-96• New Testament Reading: John 4:43-5:25
• Old Testament Passage: Psalm 110
• Points to Ponder

“The Second Miraculous Sign...”

Throughout the remainder of this gospel, John positions accounts of various ones of Jesus’ miracles
as evidence in support of his claims. It may seem, from his response to this royal official’s request,
that Jesus was frustrated by people’s need to witness miracles. “Unless you people see miraculous
signs and wonders,” Jesus told him, “you will never believe.” And yet, Jesus did perform a miraculous
sign. It seems to me Jesus thought that other evidence should convince people of his true identity
and nature without the need for the miraculous. The result of his second miraculous sign proved his
point: “So he and all his household believed.”

A miracle is something that is done that defies the laws of nature and cannot be explained by natural
phenomena. Notice the nature of Jesus’ miracles. He turned a large quantity of water into wine. He
healed a dying boy of his sickness from a distance at the exact time he spoke the words, “Your son
will live.” And he healed a man completely who had been an invalid for 38 years and had been seen
by countless thousands lying at this pool. His miracles were not doubtful or internal or delayed or
unwitnessed. His miracles were clear, out in the open, witnessed and obviously miraculous. As we’ve
already read in the other accounts, even his opponents could not deny that Jesus performed miracles,
but rather they said that he did so by the power of Beelzebub.

• Questions to Consider: How would you respond to someone who said that Jesus’ so-called
miracles were just the slight of hand and that Jesus was nothing more than a master magician? If
Jesus’ miracles were “magic”, what would that do to his testimony and that of his apostles?]]>Brian FelushkoDaily Walk Series2008-04-11T04:01:42-07:00http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/5fa49b8da5b07db4be153fd9ed560593-95.html#unique-entry-id-95http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/5fa49b8da5b07db4be153fd9ed560593-95.html#unique-entry-id-95• New Testament Readings: John 4:1-42
• Old Testament Passage: Psalm 69
• Points to Ponder

“The Savior of the World”

There are so many things for Christians to learn from this incredible story, especially when it comes
to our perspective, conviction and practice of evangelism. But those will have to wait for another
study. Keeping John’s stated purpose in mind: “But these are written that you may believe that Jesus
is the Christ..”, what could be his purpose for sharing the story of the conversion of a Samaritan
village?

There is no doubt that Jesus was born, lived and died a Jew and throughout the first century, many
saw Christianity simply as a sect of Judaism. This passage shows that Jesus was accepted not only by
the Jews in great numbers, but by non-Jews and even by those (the Samaritans) who were in
complete disagreement with, and also hostile toward, the Jews. This passage makes it clear that he
came for all and was accepted as the Son of God, not only by Jews but by people from all nations. As
the Samaritan villagers said to the woman: “We know that this man really is the Savior of the world.”

Also very clear from this testimony is that people didn’t believe just because others told them
without investigating the truth of those claims. But under the close scrutiny of doubters and
skeptics, people became convinced of Jesus’ true identity.

• Questions to Consider: Jesus is for everyone, not just for a few specific or select people or
nations. Jesus and his message cross all political, racial, cultural, religious and social lines. What
implications does that have for you personally and for the church in today’s world?]]>Brian FelushkoDaily Walk Series2008-04-10T04:00:44-07:00http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/a1d3994141bdca28dfc23ccb254779b2-94.html#unique-entry-id-94http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/a1d3994141bdca28dfc23ccb254779b2-94.html#unique-entry-id-94• New Testament Reading: John 3:1-36
• Old Testament Passage: Psalm 22
• Points to Ponder

“A Man of the Pharisees Named Nicodemus”

One of the arguments employed by those who rejected and opposed Jesus and the early Christians
was that no one of the Jewish leaders believed him. In other words, the only people Jesus was able to
scam were those who were unschooled and ordinary. Those with education and knowledge of the
scriptures saw through the lies and cheap tricks. So, John introduces us to Nicodemus, “a man of the
Pharisees...a member of the Jewish ruling council, who at this point may not have been convinced
but was certainly interested enough to check him out. We will meet Nicodemus later when he is
obviously no longer hiding in the shadows of the night.

The content of Jesus’ interaction with Nicodemus cannot afford to be overlooked, but there is not
time in this kind of study to discuss it in detail. Suffice it to say that Jesus taught Nicodemus that
one cannot slip into the kingdom of God but rather must experience a rebirth -- only those who are
born again of water and the spirit will see or enter the kingdom of God! This is a clear reference to
the experience of baptism (see Acts 2:38; Romans 6:1-4; etc.). If people are not saved, it isn’t because
of God’s lack of effort, but rather because people refuse to come into the light. They don’t want
their deeds exposed.

We then see John the Baptist back on the stand testifying in Jesus behalf (vv. 22-36). He makes clear
that there are eternal implications to accepting or rejecting Jesus. Accept that Jesus is “the one who
comes from above...whom God has sent” and you have eternal life. Reject him and “God’s wrath
remains on” you. Salvation or condemnation; heaven or hell; grace or judgment - there is no middle
ground - if Jesus is the Son of God, then who you decide he is will live for eternity!

• Questions to Consider: In the book of Acts, Luke emphasizes a number of politically, socially,
and religiously influential people who became Christians. What argument or objection do such
examples try to counter and why is this important, even in today’s world? Do you really believe
that those who accept Jesus as the Christ, the Son of God, are saved and that those who don’t
are lost? Explain your answer.]]>Brian FelushkoDaily Walk Series2008-04-09T03:59:48-07:00http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/7e09538e0adf46e85bc894c1d0bddbbd-93.html#unique-entry-id-93http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/7e09538e0adf46e85bc894c1d0bddbbd-93.html#unique-entry-id-93• New Testament Reading: John 2:1-25
• Old Testament Passage: Psalm 16
• Points to Ponder

“The First of His Miraculous Signs”

John introduces a new kind of evidence - Jesus’ miracles. Although the first one in Cana seemed to
be reluctantly performed, it was none the less a miracle and fulfilled its purpose in the hearts of his
disciples. This miracle, like every one to follow “revealed his glory” (cf. John 1:14, “we have seen his
glory”) with the result that “his disciples put their faith in him.” Jesus didn’t come to heal every
disease or to provide the best wine for every wedding. His miracles, while certainly acts of service,
were designed to “reveal his glory” and instill faith in those who were seeking God.

With his cleansing of the temple subtly John introduces us to the evidence of Old Testament
prophecy. There were many passages in the Old Testament which the Jews understood (as do we
today) looked forward to the coming of the Messiah (Hebrew for “the anointed one” and equal to
the Greek word “Christos”). These are referred to as “messianic prophesies”. Matthew’s gospel
emphasizes the fulfillment of these prophesies more than any other gospel, because his target
audience was unbelieving Jews and his purpose was to convince them that Jesus was indeed the
Messiah.

John’s target audience is more general and probably more Gentile, but if Jesus is indeed the
Christ, the Son of God, it is vital to establish that he fulfilled these prophesies. Jesus’ actions
reminded the disciples of the messianic prophecy that stated, “Zeal for your house will consume
me,” no doubt strengthening their faith in him.

The greatest miraculous sign which would reveal his glory is yet to come in the gospel but is alluded
to by Jesus when he responds, “Destroy this temple and I will raise it again in three days.” Like an
effective attorney John is building his case and calling upon his readers to decide.

• Questions to Consider: Define carefully the term “miraculous sign”. What is a miraculous
sign and what is its purpose? Try to put yourself in the position of someone in the first century
who though unsure of Jesus’ identity, witnesses one of his miracles. What do you think your
reaction would be? What is your reaction now, as a reader of John’s gospel, to the report that
Jesus turned water into wine?]]>Brian FelushkoDaily Walk Series2008-04-08T03:58:58-07:00http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/220bf7f1004a6adece4369f2b21cf73e-92.html#unique-entry-id-92http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/220bf7f1004a6adece4369f2b21cf73e-92.html#unique-entry-id-92• New Testament Reading: John 1:19-51
• Old Testament Passage: Psalm 8
• Points to Ponder

“Look, the Lamb of God”

The first evidence John brings before the jury is testimony of John the Baptist, and a few of his
followers. Human testimony is powerful, if it can be established that those testifying are trustworthy.
We send people to jail for the rest of their lives based solely on credible human testimony!

The Baptist testifies quite clearly and confidently because he was sent to identify the Christ. At his
baptism, he saw the Spirit come down and remain on Jesus and so he proclaimed that he “is the Son
of God.” So confident is he, that he points his followers to Jesus and each one of them in his own
way believes the Baptist’s testimony and begins to share his convictions with others.

Andrew spends the day with Jesus, and convinced of his identity, he runs to get Peter. Philip is
convinced that Jesus is the one whom Moses wrote about and finds a skeptical Nathaniel who, upon
meeting Jesus, becomes a believer too: “You are the Son of God; you are the King of Israel”. These
men, by the time John wrote this book, had all laid their lives on the line for their belief and some, if
not all, had already been martyred for their testimony. When people are willing to die rather than
renounce their testimony, you either have people with suffering from mental illness or who
confidently believes what they are saying!

• Questions to Consider: How does it help your faith to know that those who initially claimed
that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, choose to accept suffering and death rather than
renounce their testimony? Reflect on the time when you came to firmly believe that Jesus is who
he claimed to be. How firm is your faith right now?]]>Brian FelushkoDaily Walk Series2008-04-07T03:57:43-07:00http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/519272d565807d4aae70e84c48259d29-91.html#unique-entry-id-91http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/519272d565807d4aae70e84c48259d29-91.html#unique-entry-id-91• New Testament Reading: John 1:1-18
• Old Testament Passage: Psalm 2
• Points to Ponder

“The Word Became Flesh”

Welcome to the gospel of John. John makes his purpose for writing clear
near the end of his work - John 20:30-31. Please turn there and read it. This
is very different gospel, because John has a very specific purpose - to
convince people (Jew or Gentile) that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God.
He’s not concerned about filling us in on Jesus’ life, nor even on his
teachings per se. He pieces together teachings, miracles and personal interactions from Jesus’
ministry and masterfully arranges them in the best way to prove his premise.

And his premise is clearly stated in the first 18 verses of the book - the God who was in the
beginning and created all things (vv. 1-5) became flesh and lived among us (vv. 10-14) and his name is
Jesus (vv. 16-18)! John the Baptist testified to him (vv. 6-9, 15), but now John (the apostle) is testifying
too. As you read the gospel of John try to see it this way: Jesus is on trial for claiming to be the
Christ, the Son of God. John is the attorney for the defense and his gospel account contains all the
evidence he brings before the jury (those reading his gospel). In the end the readers must decide the
case for themselves. Read this way, John will build and strengthen your faith and give you a great
tool with which you can share the gospel powerfully with others! Enjoy!

• Questions to Consider: Do some brainstorming! If you were Jesus’ defense attorney, what
witnesses would you call in his defense in order to convince the jury that Jesus is indeed who he
claimed to be, the one and only Son of God?]]>Brian FelushkoDaily Walk Series2008-04-06T09:44:21-07:00http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/87a961dddaca304cd62ff1417ce7afb9-90.html#unique-entry-id-90http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/87a961dddaca304cd62ff1417ce7afb9-90.html#unique-entry-id-90“Hears These Words & Put Them Into Practice”

Here are some of the passages in the three gospels we have already read, where Jesus teaches on
money and warns of greed, materialism and the impossibility of serving both God and money. If you
are a disciple of Jesus, these teachings cannot be trifled with or excused away. Our Lord spent
considerable time teaching his disciples to have a spiritual perspective on money and worldly
possessions. Obviously they put his teachings into practice, for we see in the book of Acts (and
beyond) the joyful generosity, willing sacrifice and kingdom-first focus of the early Christians. May
we hear, obey, imitate and become a light to the world in such a great way!

• Matthew : 6:1-4, 19-34; 10:5-10; 13:18-23, 44-46; 14:16-18; 16:24-28; 19:16-30; 21:12-13; 22:15-22

• Mark : 2:13-14; 4:13-20; 6:8-11, 35-38; 8:34-38; 10:17-31; 12:13-17, 41-44

• Luke : 4:5-8; 5:27-28; 6:20-26; 8:11-15; 9:1-6, 12-14; 10:25-37, 38-42; 12:13-34; 14:12-14, 33; 15:28-31;
16:1-15, 19-31; 18:18-30; 19:8-9; 19:45-46; 20:20-26; 21:1-4

• Questions to Consider: Which of Jesus’ teachings about money and possessions do you feel
most convicted by? Practically speaking, what are you going to do differently so that you not
only hear his words, but you are confident you are doing your best to put them into practice?]]>Brian FelushkoDaily Walk Series2008-04-05T09:42:55-07:00http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/b3f95d65fede936d02662a6c58f12ff5-89.html#unique-entry-id-89http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/b3f95d65fede936d02662a6c58f12ff5-89.html#unique-entry-id-89• New Testament Readings: Luke 18:18-25; 21:1-4
• Old Testament Passage: Ecclesiastes 12:9-14
• Points to Ponder

“Out of Her Poverty”

Did you ever notice that many of the examples of sacrificial giving in the New Testament involve
impoverished people. The widow’s offering, Mary’s perfume, the Macedonian churches, all gave out
of their poverty. In terms of dollars, they didn’t give as much as others, but in terms of what they
had, they gave more than others. And they did so joyfully and willingly and Jesus (and Paul) noticed
and used them as examples of true giving.

Too often when we talk about giving in the church today, I look around and see a bunch of sad faces.
Sometimes I even see angry faces. Yet, we are the rich of the world; even the poorest of us is rich by
the world’s standards. With very few exceptions we have more than we need and if we have financial
problems, most (though not all) have to do with very poor management, lack of self-control and,
quite frankly, materialistic greed!

Yet God expects us to give, no matter what our financial situation in life. Giving is supposed to be
sacrificial. Giving out of our wealth, when we don’t even feel the effect of giving, isn’t Christ-like
giving. I guarantee that the widow and the Macedonian Christians felt their giving -- because it
called for real sacrifice. But if we use our lack of financial self-control, our investment portfolios and
our lack of self-control (that has resulted in huge debt) as our excuses for not giving, how are we any
different than the rich young ruler? We must come to grips with this biblical truth: “How hard it is
for the rich to enter the kingdom of God!”

• Questions to Consider: Which person are you more like in your giving to God and his work
in and through the church: the poor widow or the rich young ruler? Explain your answer and
take note of any changes you need to make in your attitude about giving.]]>Brian FelushkoDaily Walk Series2008-04-04T09:42:14-07:00http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/f84da6fa8f89ad3d959c3604de175b2d-88.html#unique-entry-id-88http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/f84da6fa8f89ad3d959c3604de175b2d-88.html#unique-entry-id-88• New Testament Readings: Luke 16:1-15
• Old Testament Passage: Ecclesiastes 12:1-8
• Points to Ponder

“God Knows Your Hearts”

Today is my 52nd birthday. I have been incredibly blessed, materially, but especially spiritually! I am
a rich man in the things that matter the most. As far as North American society goes, I have also
lived in poverty and been without any physical resources other than what was really needed: a roof
over my head, clothes on my back and food in my stomach. They haven’t always been the most
comfortable dwellings, or the latest fashions or gourmet foods, but I can honestly say, I’ve always had
what I’ve needed -- even when I really thought I needed more.

This passage asks three very important questions about money, wealth and possessions. First, are
we shrewd in our use of them? Do we use them to impact and influence people? Do we see wealth
as a something to be used to help people or do we see people as something to be used to gain wealth?
Second, does God see us as being trustworthy with worldly wealth? Are we good stewards, using
what he has blessed us with to do his will? Or are we dishonest stewards who use wealth selfishly?
He’s looking, you know, at how we use the many material blessings he has given us and he will call us
to account. Third, do we really see that money and worldly possessions are not to be valued in and
of themselves and that when we do so it is detestable to God? We might fool ourselves or others
about what we truly value, but we can never fool God. He knows!

• Questions to Consider: Which part of the Luke 16 passage hit you the hardest? What does
that say about your attitude and actions regarding money and worldly wealth? Do you really see
all of your physical and material blessings as belonging to God and that you are a steward who
needs to be trustworthy in your use of them?]]>Brian FelushkoDaily Walk Series2008-04-03T09:41:13-07:00http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/6f546061d9c46dc52985eed1fefda88b-87.html#unique-entry-id-87http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/6f546061d9c46dc52985eed1fefda88b-87.html#unique-entry-id-87• New Testament Reading: Luke 12:13-21
• Old Testament Passage: Ecclesiastes 5:8-15
• Points to Ponder

“Build Bigger Barns”

To me that one phrase describes the focus of our society -- build bigger barns! Some other wise
person once said that when you have too much you are possessed by your possessions. Bigger is
better. More is beautiful. New is improved. We can’t live in 1000 square foot homes anymore
because we’ve got too much stuff and no place to put it.

This man trusted in his wealth. He had the first century equivalent of investments, RRSP’s,
annuities and stocks. He was living high, but then God brought him face to face with reality. All
that stuff he slaved for and worked for and accumulated was useless to him, because he was going to
die and stand before God. It’s not wrong to have a lot (most of us do), but it is wrong no to be rich
toward God!

• Questions to Consider: Are you rich toward God with your thoughts, with your heart, with
your service, with your financial and physical resources? If not, how are you different than this
man? What do you need to do to repent, now! Compare Luke 19:8; 1 Timothy 6:17-19]]>Brian FelushkoDaily Walk Series2008-04-02T09:39:41-07:00http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/7119a10f991b8d13293246f6674eeb1e-86.html#unique-entry-id-86http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/7119a10f991b8d13293246f6674eeb1e-86.html#unique-entry-id-86• New Testament Reading: Matthew 13:18-23 (cf. Mark 4:18-19; Luke 8:14)
• Old Testament Passage: Ecclesiastes 5:1-7
• Points to Ponder

“Choked”

It is really important to compare the statements recorded Matthew with Mark’s and Luke’s account.
The slightly different words Jesus used on various occasions gives a fullness to his teaching on the
subject. So please, if you’ve not already done so, read all the NT passages listed above.

Materialism is obviously not only a 21st century North American sin. It is a sin of humankind
throughout the ages. Poor or rich in this world can be guilty of putting their focus and trust in the
treasures of this world. And whenever that happens, you lose God! In this passage we understand a
little better as to why that is the result: the word of God (the spiritual seed) gets choked out. Weeds
kill other plants by competing for the sunlight, the water and/or the nutrients that a plant needs in
order to grow. But the weeds steal that away and the plant either dies or remains stunted and
scrawny and therefore unable to bear fruit!

“The worries of this life”, “the deceitfulness of wealth”, “the desire for others things” and collectively,
“life’s worries, riches and pleasures”, choke the word of God out. There is no room for God’s word
in our hearts when we are focused on and consumed by the things of this world. As Jesus said, “You
cannot serve both God and money.”

• Questions to Consider: How are you doing spiritually at this time? Are you growing stronger
and more mature and on your way to bearing fruit? If not, could it be that “life’s worries, riches
and pleasures” are choking out the impact of God’s word on your heart? Think about it!]]>Brian FelushkoDaily Walk Series2008-04-01T09:36:39-07:00http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/6fd23dddf93f5e67f18d418ddaadf9ff-85.html#unique-entry-id-85http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/6fd23dddf93f5e67f18d418ddaadf9ff-85.html#unique-entry-id-85• New Testament Reading: Matthew 6:25-34
• Old Testament Passage: Ecclesiastes 2:17-26
• Points to Ponder

“And Why Do You Worry?”

Someone once said that you can tell a lot about a person by knowing what they worry about the
most. Maybe I said that, because in my sinful nature I am a worrier. And when I worry, I am playing
the “what if” scenarios over and over again in my mind. I have no problem seeing the problems even
when they haven’t even happened, yet. I can imagine what the problems will be.

However, in all honesty, most of my worry is not about what I’ll eat, drink or wear. Perhaps I should
be more concerned than I am about these things, in the right way. I do believe that God will take
care of me and therefore, what I have right now is what I need right now. But there are still times in
my life when I realize my treasure is wrapped up somewhere here on earth, because not only do I
begin to “worry” about material things, but I begin to “run after all these things”. My thoughts, and
time and energy become consumed with the material issues of my life with the result that I have very
little, if any thought, time or energy for seeking the kingdom of God. When I am not seeking first
the kingdom of God in terms of my thought, time, energy and even physical resources, I know that I
am all wrapped up in the things of this world.

• Questions to Consider: What are you worried about right now? Are the main issues in your
mind and life having to do with the kingdom of God and his righteousness or with “all these
things” of the world? Are you seeking first the kingdom of God right now?]]>Brian FelushkoDaily Walk Series2008-03-31T09:35:04-07:00http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/d87a0f24d7ceb56109e35921592c886a-84.html#unique-entry-id-84http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/d87a0f24d7ceb56109e35921592c886a-84.html#unique-entry-id-84• New Testament Reading: Matthew 6:19-24
• Old Testament Passage: Ecclesiastes 2:1-11
• Points to Ponder

“Where is Your Treasure?”

Reading through and reflecting on the first three gospel accounts, did you
notice how many times Jesus talked and taught about money, worldly wealth and personal
possessions? If you didn’t, you weren’t reading very carefully. He has more to say on this subject
than any other person whose teachings are recorded in the scriptures. It is a subject that is so vital
to our day-to-day spirituality and even our spiritual survival. One cannot faithfully follow Jesus and
not have a spiritual perspective on these issues, because as Jesus so clearly taught, “For where your
treasure is, there your heart will be also.” But what is a spiritual perspective on worldly wealth?
How can we know where our treasure really is? What can we do when we see ourselves being
concerned with storing up treasures on earth, instead of in heaven?

That’s what this week’s study is all about. We are going to look at and consider several, but not all,
of Jesus key teachings on this subject. Be prepared to have your mind and heart challenged. We
live in an intensely materialistic society that puts no stock whatsoever in the idea of heaven or
eternity. Almost everything we truly value in our society is humanistic, material or temporal. We
base our own self-assessment on how much we have acquired and/or accomplished in this world.
We are Christians, but we do live in this world and we do have to deal with issues of money,
wealth and possessions and without the influence of the Holy Spirit through the word of God, we
will absolutely buy into and thus live by a worldly perspective. As Christians in one of the richest
and most comfortable cities in the world, we need this review. I know that I do!

• Questions to Consider: Do you know, right now, where your treasure is, and thus where your
heart is? What questions could you ask yourself that will help you determine where your treasure
might be? If you asked a mature Christian whom you respect, and who knows your life, what do
you think he/she would say about the location of your treasure and your heart and why?]]>Brian FelushkoDaily Walk Series2008-03-28T00:04:52-07:00http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/a2325b352b9db652a6a403c3a7d5b12b-83.html#unique-entry-id-83http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/a2325b352b9db652a6a403c3a7d5b12b-83.html#unique-entry-id-83• New Testament Readings: Matthew 28:16-20; Mark 16:15-16; Luke 24:45-49
• Old Testament Passage: Deuteronomy 32:44-47
• Points to Ponder

“You Are My Witnesses”

We do not worship a dead martyr. We serve a living Savior! He has left his disciples with some final
commands and promises. Before moving on to the gospel of John, I would encourage you to review
Jesus “great commission” as it appears in each of the three synoptic gospels. If the final words of a
prophet of God were to be taken seriously and applied, how much more the final words of God’s
Son? If every word of Jesus recorded for us in the gospels is precious, how much more so his final
words spoken just before that glorious ascension?

• Questions to Consider: Some would say these words were meant only for apostles; that the
“great commission” does not apply to us today? How would you respond to such a position? If
you believe this commission is for us today, how should we go about obeying it? What would
each disciple’s responsibility be? How do you think we’re doing in carrying out our Lord’s final
command and in trusting his final promise?]]>Brian FelushkoDaily Walk Series2008-03-27T00:03:20-07:00http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/c4e5ef09b363e3e636724dec0bfd3347-82.html#unique-entry-id-82http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/c4e5ef09b363e3e636724dec0bfd3347-82.html#unique-entry-id-82• New Testament Reading: Luke 24:1-53
• Old Testament Passage: Genesis 3:15; Deuteronomy 18:15
• Points to Ponder

“Joy and Amazement”

Luke 24 records some of the events that took place on the single most incredible day in all of the
history of mankind! And that is no exaggeration. In fact, it is impossible to describe adequately the
unique and powerful significance of these events. If they really did occur, and Jesus was indeed
raised from the grave on that Sunday morning, then there is a God, Jesus is his Son and the Bible is
his word. If not, then the New Testament is the greatest hoax every perpetrated in history.

Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Mary the mother of James, Cleopas and his traveling companion, Simon
and the other ten apostles all saw Jesus in the flesh on that Sunday. They fluctuated between wonder,
weeping, amazement, doubt, fear, confusion, clarity and joy. But in the end, they were all convinced.
This was no dream or hallucination - Jesus was alive!

• Questions to Consider: What would it have been like to see the tomb empty or to have Jesus
appear before you? Are you any less convinced of the certainty of Jesus’ resurrection because you
rely on the testimony of others, rather than see it with your own eyes? What makes their
testimony so powerful and compelling? How would you respond to someone who asked you,
“Why do you believe that Jesus rose from the dead?”]]>Brian FelushkoDaily Walk Series2008-03-26T00:02:31-07:00http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/3067d25eec14b8d41053d8ae000112ab-81.html#unique-entry-id-81http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/3067d25eec14b8d41053d8ae000112ab-81.html#unique-entry-id-81• New Testament Reading: Luke 23:26-56
• Old Testament Passage: Psalm 23:4
• Points to Ponder

“Seeing What Had Happened”

All three of the synoptic gospels record the centurion’s reaction to Jesus’ death. Compare Matthew
27:54, Mark 15:38-39 and Luke 23:47. What did he see? It wasn’t the curtain of the temple being torn
in two. That happened in Jerusalem and he wouldn’t have know about that yet. Matthew says he
“saw the earthquake and all that happened...” Mark says he “heard his cry and saw how he died...”
Luke just says “seeing what had happened...” What must it have been like to be there?

This hardened pagan who just supervised Jesus’ crucifixion, and who had seen thousands of men die
in a similar manner, saw something so incredibly different in the way that Jesus died that he suddenly
praised God and confessed that Jesus “surely was the Son of God!” Even in the very act of his dying
Jesus glorified God and brought people to faith!

Later, Paul would write, “I eager expect and hope that I wi! in no way be ashamed, but wi! have sufficient
courage so that now as always Christ wi! be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death” (Philippians 1:20).
I honestly don’t fear death, but I do fear dying, since I have no idea the manner in which that will
happen. Will it be sudden and relatively painless, or will it be a long, agonizing and painful affair?
Will I exalt Christ in my body by death? Will the way in which I die bring someone who sees it to
faith? I can’t think of a better way to go out! God, give me the courage to face death as Jesus did!

• Questions to Consider: Have you seen a Christian die? Were you encouraged and challenged
by the manner in which he or she faced death? Do you pray for God to give you sufficient
courage to exalt Christ in your death?]]>Brian FelushkoDaily Walk Series2008-03-25T00:01:35-07:00http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/80e6aa861ff213f80c671ec11703d975-80.html#unique-entry-id-80http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/80e6aa861ff213f80c671ec11703d975-80.html#unique-entry-id-80• New Testament Reading: Luke 22:47-23:25
• Old Testament Passage: Numbers 13:26-33
• Points to Ponder

“Are You Then the Son of God?”

This is the real issue for all who reject Jesus - they reject his deity. A man, a teacher, even a prophet,
most people can accept, but not the Son of God. A man, even a very good and influential man, can
be appreciated but ignored without implications. What reasons do people give for not believing that
Jesus is who he claimed to be? Honestly, the reasons given today by the so-called learned,
intellectual and even religious, are as nonsensical as the reasons the chief priests and teachers of the
law gave to Pilate.

I am amazed by how many Christians really have their faith shaken by sensationalist news reports
and so-called documentaries about newly discovered ancient tombs or gospel accounts that claim to
prove that Jesus was just a man and nothing more. To be a Christian means being convinced that
Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the living God (Matthew 16:16). I believe it is every Christian’s
responsibility to know what they believe about Jesus and why they believe it. The crowds can be
very persuasive in their persistent shouting, no matter how baseless and groundless their evidence
and accusations are. As Christians, we must be able to resist their faithlessness and answer the
questions of those who are truly seeking.

• Questions to Consider: What do you really believe about who Jesus is? Why do you believe
that to be true?]]>Brian FelushkoDaily Walk Series2008-03-24T10:44:28-07:00http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/74987e21ee4c3015e2f9278bfbdefe97-79.html#unique-entry-id-79http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/74987e21ee4c3015e2f9278bfbdefe97-79.html#unique-entry-id-79• New Testament Reading: Luke 22:1-46
• Old Testament Passage: Psalm 14:2; 53:2; 82:5
• Points to Ponder

“He Found Them Asleep”

From our very informed perspective it seems that the disciples of Jesus were
asleep during the entire evening, not just on the Mount of Olives. Why
wouldn’t they know that the betrayer was Judas? Why, after all Jesus’ teaching
on servanthood, would they have another dispute about which one of them
was considered to be the greatest? And how, with Jesus in such obvious anguish, could they literally
fall asleep instead of pray with Jesus? Yes, they were exhausted, but why couldn’t they grasp what
was a stake?

Jesus, once again, demonstrated his incredible love and patience. He was on the verge of completing
his mission and about to go through the most horrific physical and spiritual trial possible. But he
wasn’t frustrated with their lack of comprehension or angry with their self-focus or discouraged by
their physical weakness. After all, this was the very reason he needed to suffer and die: to bring
salvation to people who are flawed and feeble - people just like the disciples, just like you and me!
Not just Peter, but all of these disciples, though they fell, turned back and strengthened their
brothers. They did wake up and get it! And now so can we!

• Questions to Consider: While it may be comforting to us to identify with the sin and
weakness of the disciples as recorded in the gospels, shouldn’t we rather compare ourselves to
the disciples in the book of Acts? As the Lord looks down from heaven now, are we among those
who understand?]]>Brian FelushkoDaily Walk Series2008-03-23T10:09:51-07:00http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/9b4f9524807a563f3353663500b1f3f6-78.html#unique-entry-id-78http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/9b4f9524807a563f3353663500b1f3f6-78.html#unique-entry-id-78• New Testament Reading: Luke 21:5-38
• Old Testament Passage: Jeremiah 52
• Points to Ponder:

“When Will These Things Happen?”

This is now the third time we’ve come across a significantly long and detailed passage where Jesus
predicts the destruction of Jerusalem. No, this is not about the second coming of Christ and the
end of the world. Obviously to the gospel writers (and the Holy Spirit) this was a part of Jesus’
teaching that was extremely important both for those seeking God and those faithfully following
Jesus. While we might see it’s importance to Jewish Christians or to all Christians of the mid to late
first century, what possible relevance does it have for you and I?

What difference does it make to you and I that God allowed the Romans to totally destroy Jerusalem and his temple and that it has never been rebuilt? For me, it is important to understand that with the establishing of the new covenant at the death of Jesus for all mankind, the old covenant established with the Israelites was, for all intents and purposes, obsolete. A.D. 70 proved that the old covenant was no longer in play and that God was done with the Jews as his people. Anyone, Jew or Gentile, would now come to God through faith in Jesus Christ. The law of Moses had served its purpose and with the death,
resurrection and ascension of Jesus Christ, there would never be again any need for animal sacrifices, priests, levites or the physical temple.

• For Further Study: See www.douglasjacoby.com, go to the bottom of the home page, and
click on the HERE at the end of “For all studies year to date”. Then scroll down to Matthew 24
and dig deep. As you have opportunity click on the links to his papers on various related topics
and enjoy!]]>Brian FelushkoDaily Walk Series2008-03-22T10:07:09-07:00http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/2388b7cbd4cbd098886155289c8b5dbf-77.html#unique-entry-id-77http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/2388b7cbd4cbd098886155289c8b5dbf-77.html#unique-entry-id-77• New Testament Reading: Luke 20:20-21:4
• Old Testament Passages: Jeremiah 23:16-22
• Points to Ponder

“Beware”

Is it hard for you to imagine the duplicity and depravity of the religious leaders of Jesus day? It is for
me. Not that I have never been self-righteous, deceitful, hypocritical, selfishly ambitious or seeking
the praise of men. But it amazes me that nothing Jesus did or said - not his compassion, patience,
honesty, courage, wisdom or truth - could touch and turn their hard hearts. Today, we underestimate
the power and the danger of false religion -- whether it is false in motivation, doctrine and/or
practice.

We fail to see how powerfully false religion appeals to people’s sinful nature and how it is
just as enslaving as immorality, pornography or drunkenness. Thus we underestimate the wickedness
of false religion in our world today. But, false religion is the enemy of truth and is used very
effectively by Satan to entrap and deceive countless millions of people in a form of religion which,
because it has no truth, has no power to connect people to God!

Satan’s angels come into this world as angels of light and give people easy ways to feel good about
God. They come in the clothing of prophets, wise men, popes, priests, ministers, media evangelists
and even humanitarians, offering a deadly cocktail of a little truth with error, a little of God’s will
with man made teaching, a few scriptures strung together without any regard for context. And they
are just as untouchable and immovable as ever the Jewish leaders of Jesus day were! Jesus and his
apostles warn us over and over again, “Beware of false prophets.” They are not good people who are
a little off base. They are not sincere people who just see things a little differently. They are enemies
of the cross of Christ, enemies of the truth, and those who follow them need to be rescued or they
too will perish!

• Questions to Consider: False teaching has always been a major issue for God’s people. Read
and respond personally to the apostle’s teaching in 2 John 7-11!]]>Brian FelushkoDaily Walk Series2008-03-21T10:06:18-07:00http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/8fae7c093343cb1f1e3bb95cab3cb0fc-76.html#unique-entry-id-76http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/8fae7c093343cb1f1e3bb95cab3cb0fc-76.html#unique-entry-id-76• New Testament Reading: Luke 19:28-20:19
• Old Testament Passage: Ezekiel 2:4-11
• Points to Ponder

“If You Had Only Known”

Jesus wept over the fate the people of Jerusalem would soon face. They would be surrounded by
their enemies (the Romans in A.D. 70) who would lay siege to the city and then destroy it
completely, killing its inhabitants. The reason for such a fate? Jesus said, “You did not recognize the
time of God’s coming to you.” They weren’t ignorant because they weren’t told, but because they
wouldn’t look, listen and believe. Again, he forewarns of their ruin when in the parable of the
tenants he says of the owner, “He will come and kill those tenants and give the vineyard to another.”

Jesus had done everything he could to make himself and his God known. For three years he
patiently and persistently taught, explained, answered questions, performed miracles and served the
people. He had pointed to their scriptures and shown how his life was a fulfillment of all the
Messianic prophecies. They were blinded by their theological basis, their religious traditions, their
self-righteousness and focus on this world.

Our mission in the 21st century is to make Jesus and his will known to the world, by our deeds and
by our words. We need to give every person we can a chance to know of God’s love, grace and of his
desire for a relationship with every person. But the reality is that not everyone will listen and not
every one who hears will believe. Eternal destruction awaits those who do not obey the gospel (2
Thessalonians 2:8-10). So let’s weep over those who refuse to believe and do everything we can to
reach those who haven’t yet heard.

• Questions to Consider: When you think about what will happen to those who will not
recognize the time of God’s coming, how does that make you feel? What does that reality
motivate you to do? Is there anyone you know to whom you have yet to preach the gospel?]]>Brian FelushkoDaily Walk Series2008-03-20T10:05:28-07:00http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/80b905586f543b7a90e72528d6f7ca11-75.html#unique-entry-id-75http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/80b905586f543b7a90e72528d6f7ca11-75.html#unique-entry-id-75• New Testament Reading: Luke 19:1-27
• Old Testament Passage: Proverbs 19:17; 22:9; 31:20
• Points to Ponder

“Salvation Has Come to this House”

The story of Zacchaeus is one of the better known from Jesus’ ministry. People seem to be able to
identify with this short man who had to climb a tree to see Jesus and then received the unexpected
surprise of a personal visit from Jesus. As the saying goes, “Everyone loves the underdog.” But don’t
feel sorry for Zacchaeus because he was short; he was both a hated and feared man in Jericho
because he was the chief tax collector. He worked for the enemy (the Romans) and made his wealth
by cheating his fellow Jews out of their hard earned assests. He was no doubt a shrewd, con man, a
cheat and a liar.

Jesus didn’t go to his house because he felt sorry for him, but because he was in need of salvation and
Jesus knew he was at a critical point in his life. And he responded with conviction and repentance.
It is this context in which Jesus tells the parable of the ten minas. Obviously Zacchaeus’ response
prompted this parable; he is an example of the one who has been trustworthy with a few things and
thus would be given more. There is no other truth to draw from this passage than this: those to
whom salvation comes are those who share what they have with others and do not horde it all for
themselves.

• Questions to Consider: Have you ever seen the parable of the ten minas in the context of
Zacchaeus’ repentance? If not, how does this change your perspective on the lesson to be
learned and obeyed from the parable? You are probably not a tax collector, but are there any
ways you have cheated others? Do you have any excess that you can give to the poor?]]>Brian FelushkoDaily Walk Series2008-03-19T10:04:35-07:00http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/0b1a9ddd2ec9c1c9f1f969f3bcff76e5-74.html#unique-entry-id-74http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/0b1a9ddd2ec9c1c9f1f969f3bcff76e5-74.html#unique-entry-id-74• New Testament Reading: Luke 18:1-43
• Old Testament Passage: Hosea 1:2-3
• Points to Ponder

“Will He Find Faith on the Earth?”

I’m really not as interested in the general and impersonal answer to that question as I am interested
in the specific and personal answer. When Jesus’ comes will he find faith in my life? What if Jesus
came today? How can I know whether or not I have faith in my life? James would later write, “Show
me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by what I do...faith without deeds is
useless” (James 2:18-20). A faith that is alive is a faith that acts.

What kinds of actions or deeds demonstrate a living faith? Persistent, bold prayers (18:1-8, 35-43).
Humility before God and confession of sin (18:9-17). Obedience to even the hardest commands
(18:18-34). Prayer that gives up or that shuts up when confronted by unbelievers or that is filled with
pride and self-rigtheousness or obedience that has limits are not signs of faith but of unbelief -- not
marks of discipleship but of simply being religious.

• Questions to Consider: Based on these criteria alone, would Jesus find faith in your life? Do
you see how serious Jesus is about your salvation? Respond to this statement: “The key to being
happy in this life is not in getting from God everything you want, but in giving to God
everything that he wants.” (Consider 18:23.)]]>Brian FelushkoDaily Walk Series2008-03-18T10:03:37-07:00http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/ad56380d0013b849e29b818166d6e756-73.html#unique-entry-id-73http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/ad56380d0013b849e29b818166d6e756-73.html#unique-entry-id-73• New Testament Reading: Luke 17:1-37
• Old Testament Passage: Psalm 52:10-12
• Points to Ponder

“Increase Our Faith”

When I rea!y read the words of Jesus in order to hear what he is saying to me, I am always
challenged. Oh, I may be comforted, encouraged, built up, instructed, edified as well, but I am
always called higher.

As he teaches his disciples about the consequences of sin, the ongoing need to forgive, true
servanthood and as he wonders at the ingratitude of nine out of ten lepers and teaches about being
prepared for the coming of the kingdom of God, I am deeply challenged.

How should we respond when Jesus’ life and teachings challenge and call us higher? Should we
respond with discouragement, guilt, prideful resistance, blame-shifting, excuse-making or other
attempts at justification? No! We must respond as the disciples did here and pray, “Increase our
faith!” Then, we must do whatever it takes to work with God to make that prayer a reality. When
challenged by the word of God, what we need is greater faith to believe and to act!

• Questions to Consider: In this chapter, which of Jesus words are you most challenged by?
Take that one thing and ask God to help you increase your faith so that you can accept the
challenge and begin putting his teaching into practice.]]>Brian FelushkoDaily Walk Series2008-03-17T10:02:34-07:00http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/2de62d1451077afd01bebaf4f58589ed-72.html#unique-entry-id-72http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/2de62d1451077afd01bebaf4f58589ed-72.html#unique-entry-id-72• New Testament Reading: Luke 16:1-31
• Old Testament Passage: Ecclesiastes 2:10-11
• Points to Ponder

“Highly Valued Among Men = Detestable to God”

This may be one of the most significant statements in New Testament!.
What is highly valued in our society today? I think that’s pretty easy to
answer; just look at the media and it’s obvious. The more penetrating and
difficult question is this: What do I truly value? Is what is most important to
me, that which is most important among men or that which is most important to God?

The word translated “detestable” here is a very strong word in Greek. This word as a noun, adjective
or verb occurs 9 times in the N.T. (Matt. 24:15; Mark 13:14; Luke 16:15; Rom. 2:22;Titus 1:16; Rev. 17:4,
5; 21:8, 27). This word, in its various forms, can be translated as follows: (noun) abomination,
loathing, disgust, nausea; (adjective) shameless, disgusting; (verb) to abhor, detest, fear (Oxford
Classical Greek Dictionary). If you will re-read Luke 16:15 and substitute a few of these other
English words, you’ll get an even deeper sense of how God feels about “what is highly valued among
men.” How about this one: “What is highly valued among men is nauseating to God”? (Rev. 3:15)

I’d better make sure I’ve rejected what man values and embraced what God values, not just with my
words, but with my life’s focus, priorities and day-to-day actions!

• Questions to Consider: What is most important to you in this life? Are wealth, worldly
success, fame or beauty on your “highly valued” list, as they are on the world’s? What if you
realize that what you truly value in this life is detestable to God? What can/should you do?]]>Brian FelushkoDaily Walk Series2008-03-16T19:59:51-07:00http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/5244c9f1f0e5ee6367adf56d6b12c330-71.html#unique-entry-id-71http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/5244c9f1f0e5ee6367adf56d6b12c330-71.html#unique-entry-id-71• New Testament Reading: Luke 15:1-32
• Old Testament Passage: Proverbs 11:30
• Points to Ponder:

“So They Began to Celebrate”

Ask my wife and she’ll tell you -- I get so frustrated when I can’t find what I’m looking for. I think
I’m mad at myself for the time I’m now wasting because I didn’t have the discipline to put
something back where it belongs. But how quickly my frustration (and perhaps anxiety) dissipates
when I find what was lost. How important the lost article was determines how the great the
celebration is upon its discovery!

To God there is nothing more precious than one soul! One person who was lost but now is found is
what brings about the greatest celebration in heaven. When someone repents and is baptized there
is a party in heaven in presence of the angels of God. When a straying son or daughter returns to
the Father and to the family of God, it is time for a party. I think we should imitate heaven. What
do you think? I think we should have a literal party -- killing our version of the fattened calf, with
music and dancing.

Maybe that would give us all a visual and physical reminder of how incredibly precious the saving of
one soul is to God. Yes, Jesus died for the world, but the world will be saved one soul and at time
and every soul saved justifies a celebration on earth as it does in heaven!

• Questions to Consider: What will you do the next time someone is baptized or restored in
the ministry that you are part of? Do you have any practical celebration ideas you can share
with your ministry leaders?]]>Brian FelushkoDaily Walk Series2008-03-15T19:59:07-07:00http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/e6305c6067638193d60826bf50af7a04-70.html#unique-entry-id-70http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/e6305c6067638193d60826bf50af7a04-70.html#unique-entry-id-70• New Testament Reading: Luke 14:1-35
• Old Testament Passages: Genesis 6:11-22
• Points to Ponder

“Come, For Everything is Now Ready”

Being called to follow Jesus is like being invited to a wedding feast or a great banquet. God has done
all the work and paid the entire cost to make this celebration a reality. He’s been planning it since
before the beginning of time and he’s worked out all the details through the entire history of
mankind. Everything is now ready. All that is needed is for people to be invited. However, whoever
is invited can choose to accept or reject that invitation and if someone accepts it, he must come with
the right attitude. For those who reject his invitation, there are consequences. For those who
accept his invitation, there are expectations. It is not we who tell God who to invite or what to
expect from those who accept his invitation.

We should feel incredibly blessed and privileged to have been invited to this great banquet we call
Christian discipleship. That we have been chosen out of all the people in the world (at this point) to
even receive an invitation is mind-blowing and humbling. Who are we and what have we done to be
so blessed? So in accepting his invitation with equal humility and gratitude we must accept his
ongoing conditions and requirements of discipleship.

If you were invited to a great banquet put on by some person you respected, would you not feel
privileged? And if you accepted that invitation would you not expect to come based on the
expectations of the one hosting the banquet?

• Questions to Consider: Jesus says, “Give up everything you have and come follow me.”
Practically, what does that mean and look like in the real world in which we live? Based on your
response, how salty are you?]]>Brian FelushkoDaily Walk Series2008-03-14T19:58:12-07:00http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/1c6e3782ca668aa165f2c330c8c77490-69.html#unique-entry-id-69http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/1c6e3782ca668aa165f2c330c8c77490-69.html#unique-entry-id-69• New Testament Reading: Luke 13:1-35
• Old Testament Passage: Genesis 6:5-8
• Points to Ponder

“Are Only a Few People Going to be Saved?”

When it comes to the message of Jesus, this is for most the hardest pill to swallow -- only a few will
be saved. No doubt, someone asked Jesus this question because that’s what they were understanding
him to be teaching. And his response confirms that they were correct. Narrow, judgmental,
exclusive, self-righteous; these are some of the words those who reject Jesus use to describe this
teaching.

But they aren’t listening to the whole message. Jesus invites any and all to come to him for salvation.
His message is anything but judgmental or self-righteous. It is, however, exclusive in that Jesus is
only way to God and it is narrow in that Jesus has requirements for those who come to him. He
requires people to believe in who he is and what he has done to make salvation possible and he
requires that those who come to him must come repentant.

The reason that only a few people are going to be saved is not because any inherent narrowness or
exclusivity of the gospel, but rather because most people will to choose to ignore or reject the
person, the work and the teachings of Jesus.

• Questions to Consider: Are you uncomfortable with Jesus’ very clear answer in Luke 13:24-27.
For those of us who accept Jesus as Lord and Saviour, who have entered through the narrow
door, what do you think should be our response to this reality, from an evangelistic perspective?
Explain your answer.]]>Brian FelushkoDaily Walk Series2008-03-13T19:57:23-07:00http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/1352c653399a1617d00eed9a6f847ab1-68.html#unique-entry-id-68http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/1352c653399a1617d00eed9a6f847ab1-68.html#unique-entry-id-68• New Testament Reading: Luke 12:35-59
• Old Testament Passage: Genesis 39:2, 20-21
• Points to Ponder

“Everyone Who Has Been Given Much”

Worry about our lives in this world, causes us to focus on our lives in this world to the exclusion of
God and his will. We must be watchful, aware that Jesus is coming back again, so that we will not be
caught unprepared, not doing the master’s will. Through Jesus and the Holy Spirit, God has given us
so much! We are so incredibly blessed. We know God and his will for our lives. We have been given
much by God and we need to be busy doing much for God in this life. Since we have been given
much, much will be demanded and since we have been entrusted with much, much more will be
asked.

Those are hard words, aren’t they? And it isn’t easy living for God and doing his will in this world, is
it? In fact, Jesus promises that our faithfulness to him will actually be the cause of problems even
with those we love the most -- our family. Yet, Jesus still expects us to listen and to obey, in the face
of temptation, pressure and even persecution. Being Christians is not a free ride through this world
-- Jesus didn’t preach the so-called, “health and wealth” gospel. He blesses us by his grace and he
leaves us here, with all the resources necessary, to do his will in our lives while we live in this world.

• Questions to Consider: How does Jesus statement in Luke 12:48 make you feel? Do his
expectations excite and energize you or do they discourage and defeat you? Do you really think
that God would go to all the trouble (putting it mildly) to save us and then give us such an
important charge without also giving us all that we need to do his will in our lives, no matter
what circumstances we find ourselves in?]]>Brian FelushkoDaily Walk Series2008-03-12T19:56:33-07:00http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/ede3bce39d4df256dc0fca9748db25a2-67.html#unique-entry-id-67http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/ede3bce39d4df256dc0fca9748db25a2-67.html#unique-entry-id-67• New Testament Reading: Luke 12:1-34
• Old Testament Passage: Psalm 50:7-12
• Points to Ponder

“Where Your Treasure Is”

I can’t listen to the news these days without, at the very least, struggling with anxiety. The price of
oil, gas shortages, interest rates, the TSX or Down Jones averages, property crime, the real estate
boom, record high foreclosures, pine beetles, NAFTA. And if that isn’t enough, there’s climate
change, global warming, terrorism, the U.S. presidential elections, cancer, heart disease, the rise of
obesity, and -- shall I go on; I’m getting anxious just writing this.

Worry has, is and always will be a big challenge for Christians. We live in a faithless world which, as
a result, has every reason (more than they know -- see 12:4-5) to live in fear and anxiety. We hear all
the bad news every day, even if we don’t read the paper or watch TV, from a non-Christian, faithless,
humanistic and most pessimistic perspective. And it wears on us.

But we must be on guard because the worries of this life, if we focus on them and give into them, can
and will choke out the word of God in our lives. The result at the very least will be ineffectiveness
and at most we can get so caught up in protecting ourselves and providing for ourselves that we
completely lose sight of God and things eternal. How tragic that would be, because God, who owns
the cattle on a thousand hills, who is our loving, gracious and forgiving heavenly Father, says we are
valuable and that he wants to give us what we really need -- salvation, eternal life.

• Questions to Consider: How much fear and anxiety do you have in your life right now?
What are you fearful of? What do you worry about? Where is your focus? Are you building
bigger barns or are you rich toward God? Where are you storing up your treasure -- on earth or
in heaven?]]>Brian FelushkoDaily Walk Series2008-03-11T19:55:35-07:00http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/96abe4991028769fc24459632bceef20-66.html#unique-entry-id-66http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/96abe4991028769fc24459632bceef20-66.html#unique-entry-id-66• New Testament Reading: Luke 11:14-54
• Old Testament Passage: Nehemiah 4:10-12
• Points to Ponder

“He Who Is Not With Me”

Many in the crowd, and certainly the Pharisees and teachers of the law, were not with Jesus. Indeed,
by their accusations and demands for a sign, they were actually being used by Satan to scatter. For
their comments probably created some doubt and even animosity in the hearts of some in the
crowd, resulting in decisions to not believe in Jesus.

Every person has to make his or her own decision as to whether Jesus is Lord, liar, lunatic or legend,
but those who share their resilient doubts or blatant unbelief are, consciously or not, giving others
reasons to reject Jesus. That’s why those who are not with Jesus are against him. Their comments
may seem sincere and innocent, but Satan works through such comments to create or justify doubt,
unbelief and rejection in others. People who persist in ongoing and unresolved doubt and publicly
share that with others are not only unbelievers themselves, but scatter those Jesus would want to
gather to himself.

Such people will face certain judgment. As Jesus said, “Woe to you...because you have not entered
and you have hindered those who were entering.” The next time you hear someone publicly express
his or her doubts and reasons for unbelief, remember that “he who is not with me is against me.”

• Questions to Consider: As disciples of Jesus how should we respond to those who, in their
doubt and faithlessness, make accusations and demands which hinder others coming to faith?]]>Brian FelushkoDaily Walk Series2008-03-10T19:54:50-07:00http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/3747dfb543e80c73fb40b1f045ea5341-65.html#unique-entry-id-65http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/3747dfb543e80c73fb40b1f045ea5341-65.html#unique-entry-id-65• New Testament Reading: Luke 10:25-11:13
• Old Testament Passage: Deuteronomy 10:12-11:1
• Points to Ponder

“What Must I Do To Inherit Eternal Life?”

The expert in the law knew the right answer. Jesus said, “You have answered
correctly. Do this and you will live.” There is no more important question
than this. All other questions pale in significance compared to this. We, too,
know the answer.

But knowing the answer, do we also try to justify ourselves? I think that we think that if we can ask
a question that can’t be answered about either one of these commands then we can’t be held
responsible if we don’t do what they say. (Read that again if necessary.) But just as Jesus answered
the lawyers question, he can answer any of ours. In other words, there is an answer. Asking
questions about these two commands is not the same as obeying them. And it’s really quite simple:
Jesus clearly said, “Do this and you will live?” Do what? Love God and love our neighbors! The only
question is “Am I doing that?”

So often, just like Martha we choose to focus on the wrong thing. We are upset and worried about
many things rather than the “one thing” that is needed. I think the disciples heard both of these
interactions and that’s why they said “Lord, teach us to pray.” I think I need to go and pray!

• Questions to Consider: How are you doing with the “Love God” and “Love your neighbor”
commands? How are you doing with choosing what is better? Are there any things on your “To
Do” list that you need to change for today?]]>Brian FelushkoDaily Walk Series2008-03-09T09:10:07-07:00http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/12515768c8ab8cee735c69d54c9ec3a4-63.html#unique-entry-id-63http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/12515768c8ab8cee735c69d54c9ec3a4-63.html#unique-entry-id-63• New Testament Reading: Luke 9:46-10:24
• Old Testament Passage: Haggai 1:2--6
• Points to Ponder:

“Follow Me”

Jesus is the one who says what it takes and what it means to follow him. We have no say in the
conditions or expectations of discipleship -- the only say we have is whether or not we will follow
him on his terms.

I think I’d forgotten that. I’ve acted like I have the right to tell Jesus what it means to be his
disciple. I don’t come out and say it just that way because I know better, but much like the two men
in Luke 9:59-62, I say, “Yes, Lord I want to follow you, but right now here’s what I’ve got to do.
When I get that done, then I’ll get more serious about my discipleship. Yes, I know that the
workers are few and certainly I’ll pray for more, but don’t expect me to go out there again. I’ve done
that before, and well Jesus, I don’t think evangelism really works. You know, I think I’ve got a better
way. Rather than tell anybody that “the kingdom of God is near” I’ll first win them over by my
example and good deeds. Then I won’t be rejected. It’ll take a little longer, but Lord I’m sure we’ll
win more my way. I really think the indirect approach is what we need to do. Your way may have
worked in the first century, but this is the 21st century after all. Yes, that’s what I’m going to do. I’m
sure you’re OK with that, right?”

I think it’s time to get serious, if I’m going to continue to call myself a disciple, about following Jesus
according to his conditions and expectations. No more, “Lord, first let me...”. But rather it’s “Yes,
Lord, what is it that you want me to do?”

• Questions to Consider: Are you truly following Jesus as Lord or are there parts of your life
where you say, “Lord, first let me...”?]]>Brian FelushkoDaily Walk Series2008-03-08T09:09:10-08:00http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/c2aa884c94e7a7e888bdf78c61e9f0a5-62.html#unique-entry-id-62http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/c2aa884c94e7a7e888bdf78c61e9f0a5-62.html#unique-entry-id-62• New Testament Reading: Luke 9:1-45
• Old Testament Passages: Ecclesiastes 12:13-14
• Points to Ponder

“Listen to Him”

Being a Christian is uncomplicated, but it’s not easy. Being a Christian is active and ongoing, not
one time and passive. It’s not just about what we say, but it is also about what we do because of what
we say. A Christian is someone who says, “Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God.” And because he says
that, a Christian is someone who denies himself, takes up his cross daily and follows Jesus. He is
someone who loses his life in this world in order to save it. A Christian is someone who is not
ashamed of Jesus and his words.

A Christian is someone who really hears the teachings of Jesus and
puts them into practice in his life, because he believes that Jesus is the Son of God.
Not every one who says he is a Christian is, in actuality, a Christian. Because being a Christian is not
just about believing some truths or giving up some sinful actions or even submitting to baptism, but
it is about following Jesus as Lord.

• Questions to Consider: Why don’t you pull out the old discipleship study and take a look at
what you were taught that it takes and it means to be a Christian and see where you stand today?]]>Brian FelushkoDaily Walk Series2008-03-07T09:08:27-08:00http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/2994006d959debb3b6c42a244d40b946-61.html#unique-entry-id-61http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/2994006d959debb3b6c42a244d40b946-61.html#unique-entry-id-61• New Testament Reading: Luke 8:1-56
• Old Testament Passage: Nehemiah 4:10-15
• Points to Ponder

“Don’t Be Afraid; Just Believe”

Where there is no faith, there is great fear but where there is great faith there is no fear. Faith is not
only believing certain things to be true, but it is also trusting the implications of those truths. If we
believe that God lives and rules and loves us more than we can truly comprehend and if we believe
that Jesus died and was raised to life so that we can be saved, then why do we become so fearful
when the storms of life bear down on us?

We wring our hands and we pace and we cry out because we believe that God is unaware,
uninvolved, and either unable or unwilling to help. “These things must be happening because God is
sleeping on the back of the boat and we’ve got to wake him up.” When we don’t trust that God, who
sent his Son to die for our sins, really cares about what is happening in our lives, we are often
overcome with fear.

Most of us probably believe that we cannot control our fear. Jesus thinks differently and he
challenges us with these words, “Don’t be afraid; just believe.” Faith and fear are mutually exclusive -
they cannot exist at the same time in the same person. At least 24 times in the Bible either God,
Jesus or one of his prophets commands his people, “Don’t be afraid.” We need to see fear for what it
is -- faithlessness -- and then we need to decide to believe.

• Questions to Consider: Right now, what is the fear factor in your life? Of what are you afraid
and why? What truths and/or promises of God do you need to focus on and trust so that you
can obey Jesus’ command, “Don’t be afraid; just believe”?]]>Brian FelushkoDaily Walk Series2008-03-06T09:07:50-08:00http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/7900ee3a0acef68b7a2e7b2a6626dcf4-60.html#unique-entry-id-60http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/7900ee3a0acef68b7a2e7b2a6626dcf4-60.html#unique-entry-id-60• New Testament Reading: Luke 7:1-50
• Old Testament Passage: Habakkuk 2:4
• Points to Ponder

“Your Faith Has Saved You”

Faith is not a static, once for all decision, nor is faith an “either you’ve got or you don’t” absolute in a
person’s life. It is possible to have faith that is seen by God as “great” or “little” or just “faith”. John
had faith, but then he had doubts. Just as a person can decide to believe, he can also decide to not
believe or to no longer believe. Faith needs proof and God is not unaware or unwilling to provide us
with evidence that can bring us to faith or build our faith. But when we have faith, even a little, and
we hear the words of God, we will acknowledge that God’s way is right.

In this chapter we also see that faith is demonstrated in many ways. The centurion trusted the
power of Jesus to simply speak his will and it would be done. The people had the faith to accept the
words of Jesus as being from God and thus true and right. And the sinful woman had the faith to
unashamedly shower her love on Jesus in a public and excessive way, because she believed she had
been forgiven much. The bottom line of faith is this -- by faith we are saved and thus we can go in
peace.

• Questions to Consider: How’s your faith doing? Is it great or little? Do you have doubts and
questions? Are you willing to look at the proof of Jesus’ life and deeds? Do you hear and accept
the word of God as true and right? Does your faith lead you to acts of lavish love and sacrifice?
Do you believe you’ve been forgiven much and are you going about your life in peace?]]>Brian FelushkoDaily Walk Series2008-03-05T09:06:38-08:00http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/02d19c825e3c52a3f14f4262fbdeeedf-59.html#unique-entry-id-59http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/02d19c825e3c52a3f14f4262fbdeeedf-59.html#unique-entry-id-59• New Testament Reading: Luke 6:1-49
• Old Testament Passage: Isaiah 65:13-14
• Points to Ponder

“The Sermon on a Level Place”

This isn’t Luke’s account of the Sermon on the Mount, because it’s not the same scenario. Jesus
came down from a mountainside after choosing his apostles to a level place where a large number of
his disciple and a great number of others from many regions gathered. When he saw them he began
to teach his disciples.

Certainly some of this is quite similar, if not identical, to what Jesus taught his disciples on the
mountainside, but there are also some differences. Is there a problem with Jesus teaching his
disciples similar or even identical things on several occasions? Don’t we need constant reminders
regarding the truth and our need to put it into practice? How many times have you read or been
taught truths such as: “love your enemies”, “do to others what you would have them do to you”,
“forgive and you will be forgiven” and “why do you call me ‘Lord, Lord?’”. Can we hear these truths
too often when everything in our society teaches us the opposite and we are constantly tempted
with seeking first our own interests?

Jesus used spaced repetition to teach his disciples about God and his will for their lives. I think one
of the greatest challenges facing 21st century Christians who live in 1st world countries is this: the
media has developed within us an insatiable need for something new and more creative all the time.
We are so easily bored and distracted and want our evangelists and elders and teachers to entertain
us. But God’s truths don’t change and won’t. And while I’m not taking away the responsibility for
those who teach us to be creative and interesting in their presentations, the burden to be interested
and enthusiastic, when it comes to the word of God, lies with the hearer.

• Questions to Consider: How eagerly and intensely do you really listen to those who strive to
teach you the word of God? Do you arrive early? Do you bring your Bible and notepad (or
notebook)? Do you sit up, pay attention, focus and learn? Or do you expect and demand that
the brothers and sisters must get your attention and keep you focused?]]>Brian FelushkoDaily Walk Series2008-03-04T09:05:44-08:00http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/0e144cf2ff5fca8e2459d7940341679b-58.html#unique-entry-id-58http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/0e144cf2ff5fca8e2459d7940341679b-58.html#unique-entry-id-58• New Testament Reading: Luke 5:1-38
• Old Testament Passage: Isaiah 6:5-7
• Points to Ponder

“The Sick Need a Doctor”

According to the scriptures we’re all sinful men and women. There is no one righteous, not even
one! Every one of us is sick with sin -- a far greater problem with far greater implications than
having leprosy or paralysis. What we all need is the forgiveness of our sins. We may feel that Jesus
should go away from us because of our sin, but that’s the very reason he came -- to heal us of our
spiritual malady.

He welcomes and makes whole those who have the humility to recognize their own need and do
whatever it takes to come to him. But he rejects those who are so filled with pride and selfrighteousness
because they see themselves as better than others and thus not needing anything from
him. All are sick, but only those who are willing to admit their illness and seek spiritual healing will
be called by Jesus. Those who are blind to their true condition will oppose faith and those who live
it and espouse it!

• Questions to Consider: If you’re a Christian, do you really see and believe that the only
reason you are well today is because Jesus has healed you? Do you still have in your heart the
humility that brought you to Jesus or are you becoming more and more like the Pharisees and
teachers of the law?]]>Brian FelushkoDaily Walk Series2008-03-03T09:04:29-08:00http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/3a94283568ffc63c51c37b16b5486730-57.html#unique-entry-id-57http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/3a94283568ffc63c51c37b16b5486730-57.html#unique-entry-id-57• New Testament Reading: Luke 4:1-44
• Old Testament Passage: Jeremiah 20:7-9
• Points to Ponder

“Isn’t This Joseph’s Son?”

Jesus was tempted in every way just as we are and yet was without sin, the
Hebrew writer wrote (Hebrews 4:15). Here he is confronted directly by the
devil himself and yet he is able to resist temptation. What was Jesus’
response to each temptation? As the psalmist said, “I have hidden your
word in my heart so that I might not sin against you.” Have you memorized anything from God’s
word lately?

We can all probably relate to Jesus experience in his home town. I remember, after becoming a
Christian, sharing my change of heart, mind and life with some friends. Most of them laughed and
I’m sure thought that this was just a phase. My life as a Christian was in complete contrast with my
life prior to my baptism. So I could understand their skepticism.

But not so Jesus - his life growing
up in Nazareth would have been totally consistent with the claim he was making now. Could the old
saying be true -- familiarity breeds contempt? Yet Jesus didn’t back down from the challenge and in
fact was extremely bold in making and defending his claims; so much so that they wanted to kill him!
Is there something here regarding how we should share with our unbelieving and skeptical friends
and family? Are we willing to take such a risk?

• Questions to Consider: God didn’t promise that we would be spared temptation or
opposition. What do you learn from Jesus in Luke 4 about how we need to respond to both?]]>Brian FelushkoDaily Walk Series2008-03-02T09:06:50-08:00http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/a2d191eb94942e1bd67f60c38016ea03-56.html#unique-entry-id-56http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/a2d191eb94942e1bd67f60c38016ea03-56.html#unique-entry-id-56• New Testament Reading: Luke 3:1-37
• Old Testament Passage: Ezekiel 18:25-32
• Points to Ponder:

“Produce Fruit in Keeping with Repentance”

Repentance is not just a word. Repentance is always proven by deeds (Acts 26:20). Deeds or action
is the fruit of repentance. Repentance needs to be very specific as when the crowd who heard John
asked him, “What should we then do?”, and he gave each group specific instructions.

John refused to baptize anyone who did not produce fruit in keeping with repentance. I believe the
same was true in the early church and that we need to do the same today. Peter said, “Repent and be
baptized everyone of you...” in Acts 2. Paul said he preached to both Jews and Gentiles that “they
should repent and turn to God and prove their repentance by their deeds.”

Repentance is essential because Jesus comes as Savior but also as Judge and that judgment will be
based not on our words but on our actions. Some don’t want to hear that message and like Herod
they attack and try to silence the messenger. But the message of repentance cannot be silenced
because it is throughout the entire Bible. It is God’s ongoing expectation of all who will share in
God’s salvation through Jesus.

• Questions to Consider: Is your repentance ongoing? Is it proven in your life by your deeds?
Are you producing fruit in keeping with repentance?]]>Brian FelushkoDaily Walk Series2008-03-01T09:05:27-08:00http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/2f1eb158af9cdb7fe50f72929ff299f2-55.html#unique-entry-id-55http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/2f1eb158af9cdb7fe50f72929ff299f2-55.html#unique-entry-id-55• New Testament Reading: Luke 2:1-52
• Old Testament Passages: Isaiah 49:1-7
• Points to Ponder

“And Jesus Grew”

This chapter contains what is perhaps the best known passage in the Bible and is often referred to as
the “Christmas Story”. Even as an atheist, I was so familiar with Luke 2:8-14 that I could quote it. I
was out with my friends, Christmas caroling, drinking from my wine skin and reciting the King
James Version to the amazement of all who knew me. I’d never read the Bible, though. I had learned
this passage from Linus and could probably quote most of the script of “A Charlie Brown Christmas”
by heart! While somewhat extreme in my love affair with everything Charlie Brown, I was not much
different than most when it came to Jesus and Christmas. That was the only time of year I thought
about Jesus and then very superficially and when the holiday was over I always left him as a baby in a
manger.

But Luke 2 ends by telling us that “Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and
men.” The Jesus which the rest of his gospel confronts us with is not a baby in swaddling clothes,
but a man who claims to be God and attempts to prove it by his character, his power and his
wisdom. This is the Jesus who confronted me in my atheism and challenged me to make the
decision to believe - a decision that has positively affected every aspect of the rest of my life. The
real meaning of Christmas, Linus, is found, not in a manger, but in the rest of his life.

• Questions to Consider: The virgin birth (Luke 2) was preceded by the virgin conception (Luke
1). God became flesh from conception onward. He travelled our journey completely and
experienced every stage of human life and development. What does that tell you about God --
his nature and his love for us?]]>Brian FelushkoDaily Walk Series2008-02-29T09:04:44-08:00http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/ce10a1a4f2ec089df8779c46a4029cbe-54.html#unique-entry-id-54http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/ce10a1a4f2ec089df8779c46a4029cbe-54.html#unique-entry-id-54• New Testament Reading: Luke 1:5-80
• Old Testament Passage: 2 Chronicles 16:9
• Points to Ponder

“I Am the Lord’s Servant”

Zechariah, Elizabeth and Mary are souls who were cut from the same mold. Flawed for sure, but
undeniably faithful to God. Of John’s parents Luke wrote, “Both of them were upright in the sight
of God, observing all the Lord’s commandments and regulations blamelessly.” How would you like
that to be written of you and preserved so that every generation from now till eternity could read it?
The angel Gabriel greeted Mary with these words, “Greetings, you are highly favored! The Lord is
with you.” And most would agree that she was in her teens at the time!

God used people to accomplish his will and bring his Son into the world - human beings, in many
ways flawed and frail and living in a broken, sad and sinful world. But these are people who put their
service to God ahead of themselves, who trusted in his promises and were determined to obey his
commands. These are people who rejoiced in being part of God’s plan even though, from a
humanistic and temporal perspective, his plan created great inconvenience and even pain and
problems in their lives.

Both Mary’s and Zechariah’s songs are incredibly inspiring as they praise God for his faithfulness to
his promises. Is it any wonder that God chose people such as these through whom he would prepare
the world for the coming of his Son?

• Questions to Consider: Is your attitude today the same as Mary’s? Do you have such a heart
for God and his will in your life that you can pray, “I am the Lord’s servant. May it be done to
me as you have said”? Take some time today to sing songs (or write your own) that praise God
for his faithfulness to you and for his salvation for all mankind.]]>Brian FelushkoDaily Walk Series2008-02-28T09:03:09-08:00http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/7eb281b940bdff6577c23a8467248d4c-53.html#unique-entry-id-53http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/7eb281b940bdff6577c23a8467248d4c-53.html#unique-entry-id-53• New Testament Reading: Luke 1:1-4; Acts 1:1-2
• Old Testament Passage: Psalm 33:1-5
• Points to Ponder

“The Certainty of the Things You Have Been Taught”

Luke’s account is my favorite! He himself was not an eyewitness to the things Jesus said and did. He
was a Gentile, a trained medical practitioner, converted during the ministry of Paul. No doubt as he
travelled with Paul, and especially while in Jerusalem, he met and conversed with “those who from
the first were eyewitnesses and servants of the word.” The result was that not only did he write the
gospel of Luke, but the book of Acts as well.

He wrote what he calls an “orderly account” for “Theophilus”. Who was this man? A recent covert
of high ranking as some have claimed? Or is this a code name for all Christians, since the name
means “lover/friend of God”? Regardless, the purpose is clearly stated: “So that you may know the
certainty of the things you have been taught.”

As a young man, converted out of atheism, who knew little about the Bible, Luke’s account was
certainly a God send for me. His is the most carefully written from an historical perspective, the
most logically ordered, the most detailed and the longest of the four gospels. I once spent almost an
entire year studying through the gospel of Luke. This next month in his account will be exciting.

• Questions to Consider: How certain are you of the things you have been taught about Jesus
and the early church? What is your level of confidence in the historicity of the gospel accounts
and Acts? Do you have any questions or doubts as to the accuracy of the early Christian’s
testimony? Be specific about any questions or concerns or doubts that you have.]]>Brian FelushkoDaily Walk Series2008-02-27T09:01:16-08:00http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/c096757f9ec4462197886343adad23f9-52.html#unique-entry-id-52http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/c096757f9ec4462197886343adad23f9-52.html#unique-entry-id-52• New Testament Reading: Mark 15:42-16:20
• Old Testament Passage: 1 Samuel 15:22-26
• Points to Ponder

“Whoever Believes and Is Baptized”

Mark’s version of the great commission is denied by some. It says in my NIV edition: “The most
reliable early manuscripts and other ancient witnesses do not have Mark 16:9-20.” While it is true
that the Codex Vaticanus and the Codex Sinaiticus stop at Mark 16:8, it is pretty obvious the ending
was lost. A gospel account of Jesus would not end with the words, “So they went out and fled from
the tomb, for terror and amazement had seized them; and they said nothing to anyone, for they were
afraid.” That’s obviously not the “end of the story”.

A few manuscripts have a shorter ending which so obviously (in my opinion) does not fit the tenor
and language of Mark’s gospel. Many manuscripts contain the text just as we have it (16:9-20), which
is by far and away the best fit. And in this ending is the clearest and most undeniable statement by
Jesus of the essential nature of baptism relative to a person’s salvation -- which, of course, his
apostles would preach and practice in the early church (as recorded in the book of Acts). According
to Jesus, there is no salvation for anyone apart from baptism.

• Questions to Consider: Where do you stand on the issue of baptism? Do you believe that
there is no such thing as an “unbaptized” Christian? Do you believe and teach that “whoever
believes and is baptized will be saved”? When it comes to baptism can you simply quote Jesus
(and his apostles) and that’s all the explanation required?]]>Brian FelushkoDaily Walk Series2008-02-26T09:01:14-08:00http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/eb1f889cfec4f89cf1fe5d9eecb9c6bd-51.html#unique-entry-id-51http://www.vancouverchurchofchrist.org/dailywalk/files/eb1f889cfec4f89cf1fe5d9eecb9c6bd-51.html#unique-entry-id-51• New Testament Reading: Mark 14:53-15:41
• Old Testament Passage: Isaiah 53:7
• Points to Ponder

“Jesus Remained Silent”

The motivation to defend ourselves against false accusations is indeed strong. It is almost
impossible to keep silent while others tell lies about you, especially when their testimony is so
obviously fabricated. Mark tells us that those who witnessed against Jesus not only testified falsely,
but that their statements did not agree (14:56, 59). The case against Jesus was so obviously fabricated
that Pilate almost begged him to speak up in his defense. Yet Jesus gave no rebuttal (14:60; 15:5). As
Isaiah predicted, “like a lamb that is lead before its shearers is silent, so he did not open his mouth.”

Of course, he kept silent because he came to d