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To Love JESUS More Than Anything

And you shall love the Lord your God out of and with your whole heart and out of and with all your soul (your life) and out of and with all your mind (with your faculty of thought and your moral understanding) and out of and with all your strength. This is the first and principal commandment. (Mark 12:30 from Deut. 6:4, 5) (AMPLIFIED BIBLE)

Jesus’ love is different from human carnal love in several profound ways:

1. Selflessness vs. Selfishness: Jesus’ love is selfless, whereas human carnal love often leans towards selfishness. Jesus demonstrated His selflessness by willingly sacrificing Himself for the salvation of humanity (John 3:16). In contrast, human love can be driven by personal desires and expectations.

2. Unconditional vs. Conditional: Jesus’ love is unconditional, extending to all people without any prerequisites. He loves us as we are, regardless of our flaws and mistakes. Human carnal love, on the other hand, tends to be conditional, often based on what someone can offer or how they meet our expectations.

3. Sacrifice vs. Convenience: Jesus’ love involves sacrificial giving, even to the point of laying down His life for others. His ultimate act of love on the cross exemplifies this (1 John 3:16). In contrast, human carnal love may be limited by convenience and personal comfort.

4. Forgiveness vs. Grudges: Jesus’ love is forgiving, always ready to extend mercy and grace to those who repent. He taught His followers to forgive others as God forgives them (Matthew 6:14-15). Human carnal love may struggle to forgive and can hold onto grudges.

5. Eternal vs. Temporary: Jesus’ love is eternal, extending beyond this life and into eternity. Romans 8:38-39 (NIV) assures us that nothing can separate us from the love of Christ. Human carnal love may be temporary, subject to changing circumstances and emotions.

6. Perfect vs. Imperfect: Jesus’ love is perfect, without any flaws or shortcomings. His love encompasses all aspects of our being and meets our deepest needs. Human carnal love, being human-driven, is imperfect and may not fully satisfy our hearts.

7. Transforms vs. Demeans: Jesus’ love has the power to transform lives. When we experience His love, it changes us from within, making us new creations (2 Corinthians 5:17). Human carnal love, if misused or misdirected, can lead to hurt and emotional pain.

8. Unwavering Faithfulness vs. Fickleness: Jesus’ love is unwavering and constant. He remains faithful even when we falter (2 Timothy 2:13). Human carnal love may vary based on circumstances and emotions, sometimes being fickle and unstable.

9. Empowers vs. Enslaves: Jesus’ love empowers and sets us free from sin and bondage (Galatians 5:1). It liberates us to live in righteousness and godliness. In contrast, human carnal love can sometimes lead to dependency or even unhealthy attachments.

10. Inclusive vs. Exclusive: Jesus’ love is inclusive and embraces all people, inviting everyone to come to Him (Matthew 11:28). Human carnal love can sometimes become exclusive, focused only on a select few or those who are like-minded.

11. Healing vs. Hurting: Jesus’ love brings healing and restoration to broken hearts and wounded souls (Psalm 147:3). It binds up the brokenhearted and offers comfort. Human carnal love, if misguided, can sometimes lead to hurt and pain.

12. Divine Source vs. Human Origin: Jesus’ love originates from God, as He is God incarnate (1 John 4:9-10). His love is divinely inspired and reflects the very nature of God. Human carnal love, while meaningful, is rooted in human emotions and experiences.

13. Empathy vs. Indifference: Jesus’ love is empathetic, understanding the depths of human struggles and pain. He weeps with those who weep (John 11:35). Human carnal love may sometimes display indifference or lack of understanding.

14. Calls to Holiness vs. Tolerates Sin: Jesus’ love calls us to live in holiness and righteousness (1 Peter 1:15-16). It convicts and corrects, guiding us towards a life that honors God. Human carnal love might tolerate or overlook sinful behavior.

15. Promises Eternal Life vs. Earthly Pleasures: Jesus’ love offers the gift of eternal life and a hope beyond this world (John 10:28). It emphasizes the spiritual over the temporal. Human carnal love may be focused on seeking temporary pleasures and gratifications.

16. Serves vs. Seeks to be Served: Jesus’ love is characterized by serving others, as seen in His humble act of washing His disciples’ feet (Mark 10:45). Human carnal love can sometimes be driven by a desire to be served or gain something in return.

It is essential to remember that while we may strive to emulate Jesus’ love, we are imperfect beings. Nevertheless, through His grace and the guidance of the Holy Spirit, we can grow in our capacity to love like Christ, thereby impacting the world with the transformative power of His love.

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The Simple Gospel

The simple gospel
https://youtu.be/5QFAKGO78ig



Timeless Relevance Amidst Modern Confusion

Do you feel lost in today’s complex religious and philosophical landscape? Do you wish to find a path to faith that is simple and easy? We all yearn for a way to make sense of life’s hardships. But what if there was a path to true meaning and fulfillment that was actually quite simple?

The good news is that you can

RECEIVE & BELIEVE the simple Gospel: a straightforward approach to Christianity that brings clarity and hope to those seeking a deeper understanding of life’s purpose. 

Firstly, I want to focus your attention on the power and timeless relevance of the simple Gospel of Jesus Christ. Inspired by Dr. Peter Kreeft’s insights from his book, “Between Allah and Jesus,” we will delve into the beauty and significance of the primitive, simple, timeless gospel in the face of post-modern agnosticism and Godless society.[1]

“Less is More”

In a world characterized by endless options, choices, and distractions, both Barry Schwartz and Greg McKeown advocate for the value of simplicity. Barry Schwartz, in “The Paradox of Choice,”[2] argues that the abundance of choices can lead to decision-fatigue, anxiety, and dissatisfaction. He suggests that simplifying our lives and reducing the number of options can lead to greater happiness and fulfillment. Similarly, Greg McKeown, in “Essentialism, The Disciplined Pursuit of Less,”[3]  emphasizes the importance of focusing on what truly matters and eliminating non-essential tasks, commitments, and possessions. By simplifying and decluttering our lives, we create space for what brings us joy, purpose, and meaning.

“The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry: How to Stay Emotionally Healthy and Spiritually Alive in the Chaos of the Modern World” by John Mark Comer offers a timely and insightful guide to navigating the frenetic pace of modern life. Comer invites readers to examine the damaging effects of busyness, hurry, and constant distraction on their emotional and spiritual well-being. Through personal anecdotes, practical advice, and spiritual wisdom, he encourages intentional steps toward a slower, more intentional way of living. Comer highlights the importance of solitude, Sabbath rest, simplicity, and cultivating a deeper connection with God. By embracing these principles, readers can experience emotional health, spiritual vitality, and a renewed sense of purpose amidst the chaos of the modern world.[4]

The Relevance of Ancient Art and Culture

A “primitive” is poor but appreciative and happy.  A sophisticated modern is rich but spoiled and bored.  Africa is the poorest continent in the world, yet Africans smile more than anyone else.  Louisiana is one of the poorest states in America but the happiest (this is the result of recent sophisticated scientific studies.)

Dr Peter Kreeft

In modern society, “primitive” can often be misunderstood and dismissed as old, irrelevant, or even stupid. However, when we examine ancient art, we discover a richness and timelessness that touches the depths of our souls. Rock paintings, sculptures, and indigenous artwork speak to our shared humanity and evoke emotions that transcend time and culture. They remind us that the human experience, at its core, remains unchanged throughout history.

Ancient Languages and Great Historic Writers

The Ancient Hebrew Bible and other sacred Jewish texts possess the depth and strength to capture our interests, having been studied and preserved for centuries. These studies laid the foundation for a wealth of specialized vocabulary and a deeper understanding of religious and philosophical concepts than modern languages.  For example, there are more than 30 Hebrew praise-verbs that we cannot translate into English. We do not have words in the English language to describe the various expressions of worship the Hebrews experienced. 

Science and Exploration 

Children’s fascination with fire and their joy in playing with simple wheels reflect the innate human curiosity and the desire to explore and understand the world around us. While we have made remarkable technological advancements, these foundational inventions remain relevant and continue to be appreciated.  As we reflect on the endurance of these primitive yet invaluable inventions, we can appreciate the simplicity and timeless nature of certain foundational elements that contribute to the well-being and progress of society. They remind us that amid a rapidly changing world, some fundamental truths and tools continue to serve as the pillars of human existence.

The Inerrancy of the Bible 

While some may view the Bible as outdated and irrelevant, it is the most widely read and referenced book in human history. Its teachings, stories, and moral principles have shaped religious, ethical, and cultural traditions worldwide. Countless scholars, theologians, philosophers, and writers have cited and commented upon its texts throughout history.

The Enduring Power of the Gospel

Above all, the simple Gospel of Jesus Christ is the pinnacle of timeless truth and relevance. The life, death, and resurrection of Jesus provide the ultimate example of love, compassion, and sacrifice. Throughout the New Testament, we witness Jesus’ teachings and actions demonstrating love and mercy.

From the parables illustrating forgiveness and compassion to His interactions with the marginalized and outcasts, His message resonates with all generations, inviting us to embody His transformative love in our daily lives: 

    • “do unto others what you want them to do to you” Matthew 7:12.

    • “Yet for us, there is but one God, the Father, from whom all things came and for whom we live; and there is but one Lord, Jesus Christ, through whom all things came and through whom we live.” 1 Corinthians 8:6 (NIV):

    • “For there is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus.” 1 Timothy 2:5(NIV)

    • “The most important one [commandment],” answered Jesus, “is this: ‘Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.‘” Mark 12:29-30 (NIV):

    • “What shall we do, that we may work the works of God?” Jesus answered and said to them, “This is the work of God, that you believe in Him whom He sent.” John 6:28-29 (NKJV)

The SIMPLE GOSPEL is SIMPLY THIS: Serve, worship, and follow GOD ALONE! “Subscribe, like, and follow” His Word, principles, tenets, and way of doing life, and you will be HAPPY, find PEACE and become your God-Created Purpose!  

Living Out the Simple Gospel Today

As followers of Christ, we are called to embrace the simplicity and enduring relevance of the Gospel.  New inventions are wonderful and can make life much easier. Still, not all new things are good, as we can slip into the “Social Media Novelty-dopamine” trap and actually waste valuable time we could have spent in prayer or with family.

We cannot change what we’re not in a relationship with; thus, knowing everything that is going on all around us can become overwhelming.

This why the Bible Directs us always to BE CONTENT with what we have! 

    • “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Matthew 6:19-21 (NIV):

    • “Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, ‘Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.'” Hebrews 13:5 (NIV):

    • “But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that.” 1 Timothy 6:6-8 (NIV):

In Conclusion

The simple gospel is at the heart of all Christian beliefs and should serve as a reminder to Christians everywhere to: live out their lives according to God’s will. We must live with faith, hope, and love as our guideposts, trusting in God as we journey through life. As we look towards the future and strive to live our lives for Jesus, let us remember the words of the Apostle Paul: “For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes.” (Romans 1:16). May we all strive to be models of the simple gospel in everything we do. 

Recently we all experienced being without electricity and water, conveniences we thought we could not go without.  Yet as we connect again with each other and cherish nature around us, we realize: The trees and rock formations have been there for generations! Nature knows nothing of Covid 19 Pandemic, Load Shedding, and an Economic Recession!  The most important people to love and care about is in your own house!  

The simple gospel is a beautiful and powerful message of hope and redemption.

Jesus Christ

It is a reminder of who God is and what He has done for us: He sent His son, Jesus, to the earth to pay the price of our sins—so that all who believe in Him can receive the gift of salvation. Nothing is more precious than this truth, and it is an amazing reminder of the grace and mercy of God. We cannot earn our salvation through good deeds; it is only through faith in Him that we can be saved.

This is the simple gospel: God loves us, and He wants us to know Him and accept His gift of salvation. We have been saved not by what we do, but by what He has done.

Let us all continue to share the simple gospel with others that all may come to know the incredible and everlasting love of our heavenly Father.

[1] Dr Peter Kreeft. How to Destroy Western Civilization and Other Ideas from the Cultural Abyss, Chapter 16 A Word about Islam, and a Defense  of My Controversial Book about it  https://www.peterkreeft.com/commentary-islam.htm

[2] Barry Schwartz, “The Paradox of Choice: Why More Is Less”

[3] Greg McKeown, “Essentialism, the disciplined pursuit of less.”

[4] John Mark Comer. “The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry:” How to stay emotionally healthy and spiritually alive in the chaos of the modern world . John Murray Press. Kindle Edition.

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Reset Your Focus

Learn how to reset your focus from the best life ever lived, and achieve your God-given destiny!

The Light of the World (Luke 11:34,36)

The light of the body is the eye: if therefore thine eye be single, thy whole body shall be full of light. But if thine eye be evil, thy whole body shall be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in thee be darkness, how great is that darkness! (Mat 6:22-23)

I love connecting with people, all ages and all kinds! Recently I was in conversation with a teenage girl who told me of her struggles to remain perfect for her parents, teachers, friends and even God! She is beautiful without and within, top in her class, exemplary character and mature way beyond her years! I looked her deep in her eyes like a father loves his daughter and said: The pursuit of perfection is an illusion! Perfection in this life is fleeting! 

As human beings, we seem to forget that we are restricted by our age, gender, physical and mental ability and even our personality.  Furthermore, we are also limited by our economic standing, knowledge and talents as well as our surroundings family and friends! Perfection is in the eye of the beholder! Life is thus a hierarchical race of who overcomes these weaknesses and limitations best! We simply cannot be all things for all men! 

Thankfully that what could not be shaken remained – Jesus and His Kingdom! (Heb 12:28-29) 

One of the greatest tests of true love is self-control. 

One could lavish your love on all, and experience countless fleeting ecstasies of unrestrained freedom, but never become rooted in true love.  For, true LOVE requires devotion, focus, attention, and presence. 

One November morning I woke up thinking of how Jesus allowed himself to be restricted, reduced, reserved, made insignificant ultimately becoming human flesh! Jesus embraced these earthly restrictions!

The restriction of a name/stigma.

He withdrew himself to a small village called Nazareth, with possibly a bad reputation, the devout Jew Nathanael exclaimed: “What good can come out of Nazareth?” (John 1:45) Jesus returned here after staying in Egypt so the word could be fulfilled that the Messiah will be called a Nazarene. (Luk 2:23) This Nazarene nametag remained for regularly he was called “Jesus of Nazareth” (Mat 26:71) Even the demons knew Him by that name (Mark 1:24) People of the time had no surnames. The place you lived or the work you did was often added to your name.  A name can restrict you.

The Restriction of the place you grow up.

Lower Galilee remained outside the mainstream of Israelite life until NT times when Roman rule first brought security. Sepphoris was the chief City of the area, a little to the North of Nazareth, but never mentioned in the gospels. Why did Jesus choose not to live in this modern city of surely greater conveniences than Nazareth? Nazareth lay close enough to several main trade routes for easy contact with the outside world, while at the same time her position as a frontier-town on the south border of Zebulun overlooking the Esdraelon plain produced a certain aloofness. It was this independence of outlook in Lower Galilee that led to the scorn in which Nazareth was held by strict Jews (Jn. 1:46).[1] 

Holding back your talents.

Jesus evidently did little miracles growing up; after starting His public ministry and doing miracles from town to town, he returned to His hometown. “You will surely say this proverb to Me, ‘Physician, heal yourself! Whatever we have heard done in zCapernaum, 2do also here in aYour country.’ ” [2] They rejected his interpretation of this Jewish Blessing by the prophet Isaiah (Isa 61-1-2) that the Messiah came to heal and deliver everyone and I am He! So all those in the synagogue, when they heard these things, were efilled with 4wrath, 29 fand rose up and thrust Him out of the city; and they led Him to the brow of the hill on which their city was built, that they might throw Him down over the cliff. [3]

This means that Jesus restricted Himself for 30 years!! 

Formula for success 

Jesus is the ultimate example of focus! 

The light of the body is the eye: if therefore thine eye be single, thy whole body shall be full of light. 

Know what you want, then write down 20 steps on how to get it! Focus and get working! This is a simple formula of success! 

We present our best work when we concentrate! 

Narrow is the way

(Mat 7:13-14; Luk 13:22-24) στενός stenós; fem. stenḗ, neut. stenón, adj. Straight, narrow, with reference to the gate leading to life (Mat 7:13-14; Luk 13:24; Sept. Isa 49:20). We talk of someone who lived a righteous life, as someone who followed the straight path! 

Discipline is necessary for our complete development 

Part of a child’s psychological development is the period, of discipline almost to the point of absolute slavery! Yet when ready, because they have matured, to outperform their peers in the long term by far!  

Jesus WAITED! 

Most young people do not know the meaning of the word WAIT at all! 

He was in no hurry to start his ministry. (Joh 2:4).

“my time has not yet come… My hour had not come” (Joh 7:6; Joh 7:8; Joh 7:30)

Jesus would not be perturbed from His mission: 

The man interrupted him to help him get his stolen inheritance (Luk 12:13) He at first was not willing to move outside the boundaries of the Jewish nation, for which he came.  Women not of Jewish descend (Mat 15:21-28) 

I must 

We hate the things we MUST do. No one wants to be told to do something. Yet Jesus had no problem submitting and embracing the duty put on Him.

– Luk 2:49 Must be about my father’s business

– Luk 4:43 I Must preach the Kingdom

– Luk 9:22 Must suffer

– Luk 13:33 Must go today

– Luk 19:5 “Zacchaeus, hurry and come down, for I must stay at your house today

– Joh 9:4 We must work the works of him who sent me

Jesus lived to fulfil scripture 35x mentioned “scripture fulfilled”

His intellect was not used to be open to everything… 

There is one truth, one way, (Joh 14:6) 

Men told you this, but I tell you… His teaching was simple, narrow, to the point, direct to be either accepted or rejected.  

He did not group men as if they were all alike.  

He had no universal smile.  

He had no fear of man

He praised the faith of a Roman officer and heathen women but scorned the falsehood of the Pharisees and Scribes.  

He called Herod a jackal. 

You cannot finish anything if you do not remain focused. 

I have finished the work You gave me to do (Joh 17:4; Joh 19:28)

My food is to do the will of the father (Joh 4:32) 

“Narrow your focus and you will dominate your market” 

He calls us to this narrowness too: 

abide in me, (John 15) take up your cross, follow me! (Mat 16:24) Simple yet life-changing commands. 

He hit the nail at exactly the same place every time. 

The difference between a river and a swamp. A swamp has no boundaries.  Art is complete when it is framed! To take the perfect picture, you need to frame it right. Songs are written in a certain key, with only so many chords. We enjoy good roads because it has pavements. Being restricted is a good thing! Knowing and understanding your boundaries is a vital skill we all need to develop and submit to!

Sin is missing the mark! Righteousness is hitting the mark and the centre of His way of life! His way of doing life is really best for us! The more we look to Him, contemplating His life, the more He works the grace of His life in us! We become more and more Christlike!

[1] Charley, J. W. “Nazareth.” Ed. D. R. W. Wood et al. New Bible dictionary 1996 : 808. Print.

z Matt. 4:13; 11:23

2 NU Capharnaum, here and elsewhere

a Matt. 13:54; Mark 6:1

[2] The New King James Version. Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1982. Print.

e Luke 6:11

4 rage

f Luke 17:25; John 8:37; 10:31

[3] The New King James Version. Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1982. Print.