THE BLOOD OF JESUS

Time with Jesus - Monday, 14 May 2012

Hi all,

Today’s meditation is all about the blood of Jesus. Never mind the high priced detergents on the market. They may work for clothes. But they can never provide deep cleansing of the soul from sin. Furthermore, only Jesus’ blood can cleanse our conscience. Derek Prince called the Blood of Jesus “God’s Atomic Bomb”. Just one drop is sufficient to cleanse humanity from sin. That’s deep cleansing as it should be.

Blessings

Jim & Phyllida Strickland

Time with Jesus – Monday, 14 May 2012
INTRODUCTION	DAILY LIGHT EVENING SCRIPTURES	THE BLOOD OF JESUS
Ever since my teens I’ve like motor cars. I’m no aficionado but I like the things. I’m tempted to say I love them. But I don’t love cars the way I love God and love my wife. But I like big expensive luxury cars. I would love to have a top of the range BMW or Mercedes. A Rolls Royce is somewhere near the very top of my mental fantasies. Of course, I’m not likely to own one. But it would be a great “nice to have”. It’s one of those juvenile fantasies. Like marrying Miss World. Penny Coellen back in my early days. Not surprising really. In my mind she remains one of the most beautiful women I’ve ever seen. Another popular fantasy among school boys back then was to marry Princess Anne. It was not so much being married to her as the associated notoriety and recognition. But England was 6000 miles away, so it was the sort of pipedream and was not taken seriously. Fairly recently I read a story about a man who wanted a Rolls/Royce. Eventually he got one. It was a fairly old model but was just what he wanted. A couple of months later he sold it. There was nothing wrong with the car. But he was inundated by begging letters and people wanting to “touch him” for money. There are other wonderful possessions which most of us want in life. A home of our own, children, a good education, friends, relations and good financial prospects. We all have this in common. The difficulty with all this “stuff” is that it is all temporary. In a few short years we will have left it for others to enjoy. I’m reminded that a shroud has no pockets. There is nothing wrong with having possessions. Proverbs tells us: A good man leaves an inheritance to his children's children, but the sinner's wealth is laid up for the righteous. Proverbs 13:22 ESV The real issue is what we do with our possessions. We are going to leave them behind. I know the story of a man who said, “Lord, If I can’t take it with me I don’t want to go.” But we will all go. There is something that is of greater value than everything in this world combined. It’s something you cannot buy. However, it will cost you everything; it’s the blood of Jesus Christ. You cannot buy it. You cannot steal it. God by His grace provides it as a free gift. But although there is no capital outlay, it will cost you everything. All your possessions, all your friends and family; that’s the price. The blood of Jesus is not cheap. It only takes one tiny drop to cleanse us of all unrighteousness. But it’s never been cheap. It’s the cost of the life of God. He shed His blood for me. He thought I was worth it! Jim & Phyllida Strickland	11 They overcame him because the Lamb gave his life's blood for them. They overcame him by giving witness about Jesus to others. They were willing to risk their lives, even if it led to death. Revelation 12:11 NIrV 33 And who would dare tangle with God by messing with one of God's chosen? 34 Who would dare even to point a finger? The One who died for us--who was raised to life for us!--is in the presence of God at this very moment sticking up for us. Romans 8:33-34 MSG 11 "'The life of each creature is in its blood. So I have given you the blood of animals to pay for your sin on the altar. Blood is life. That is why blood pays for your sin. Leviticus 17:11 NIrV 12 "That same night I will pass through Egypt. I will strike down every oldest son. I will also kill all of the male animals that were born first to their mothers. And I will judge all of the gods of Egypt. I am the LORD. 13 "The blood on your houses will be a sign for you. When I see the blood, I will pass over you. No deadly plague will touch you when I strike Egypt. Exodus 12:12-13 NIrV 1 There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. Romans 8:1 ESV 13 Just then one of the Elders addressed me: "Who are these dressed in white robes, and where did they come from?" 14 Taken aback, I said, "O Sir, I have no idea--but you must know." Then he told me, "These are those who come from the great tribulation, and they've washed their robes, scrubbed them clean in the blood of the Lamb. Revelation 7:13-14 MSG 5 and from Jesus Christ--Loyal Witness, Firstborn from the dead, Ruler of all earthly kings. Glory and strength to Christ, who loves us, who blood-washed our sins from our lives, 6 Who made us a Kingdom, Priests for his Father, forever--and yes, he's on his way! Revelation 1:5-6 MSG	How to defeat the devil? God’s Word makes it quite clear. There are three simple methods which draw the victory near. The one is testifying about what Christ has done. Telling people they will win through Jesus God’s own Son. The next is being willing to give your life away. “Everything for Jesus” is what we hear men say. But there’s another factor without which you and me, Could never be forgiven and couldn’t be set free. The fact is, there’s a penalty that always must be paid. If anyone commits a sin; if God is disobeyed, The person who committed it must be condemned to die. The price remains mandatory and to all it must apply. This can only happen when the blood of life is shed. When the blood has drained away, the victim will be dead. That’s the way God made us; life cannot carry on; If all the blood within us has drained away and gone. Put into simple language, in order to forgive, A sacrifice must shed its blood so that a man might live. The concept isn’t popular. Not in this day and time. Our people are too squeamish and baulk at all the grime, They think of in an abattoir; “It must be sanitised”! But monsters of iniquity can never be disguised. Perhaps I do not like it. But I’m not in control. The One Who really matters and Whom we all extol, Insists the blood of life is shed to pay for what we’ve done. And since it is essential, His One and Only Son Became the very sacrifice. He shed His blood for mine. To pay for our redemption; for His blood is divine. Which means it pays for all the sins of me and you and you And you and you and you and you; no other blood will do! If you say that it isn’t fair, my friend, you’ve got it right. Absolutely undeserved in anybody’s sight. But this is His decision. We are not asked to vote. So each and every one of us are in the selfsame boat. Of course you can refuse it. You don’t have to agree. But then you pay the price yourself for all eternity. I think we should accept it. Thank God we’re not condemned. Thank You Lord that by Your blood, our sentence You amend. Forgiven, cleansed and pardoned. It’s too good to be true. But that is what the blood of Christ has done for me and you. He became the sacrifice. The price He paid was high. He had to go to hell and back; to shed His blood and die. We cannot point a finger. Our pardon is complete. There’s no way we can add to it; For it’s designed to meet, The standards God demanded and each of us must pay. But Jesus paid the price in full on Calvary that day. Jim Strickland – Written 14th May 2012

STRENGTH OUT OF WEAKNESS!

Time with Jesus - Sunday, 13 May 2012

Hi all,

The Church of Christ has been through several major changes over the past 20 years.

Children speak to us about relationship in an almost Divine way. When they are born they are helpless, except for their ability to bawl and squall. They are totally dependent on their fathers and mothers for everything. That is how we are supposed to be with our Heavenly Father. Then they start to grow. Will they become spoilt brats of little ladies and gentlemen? You tell me. You raised them. How are you with God? Probably like your children to you!

Blessings

Jim & Phyllida Strickland

Time with Jesus – Sunday, 13 May 2012
INTRODUCTION	DAILY LIGHT EVENING SCRIPTURES	STRENGTH OUT OF WEAKNESS!
We’ve all probably heard the story of the Chinese Christian who visited America. When he was back in China his comment was, “It’s amazing how much American Christians achieve without God! It’s true. Many men and women are building their own ministry rather then God’s Kingdom. Of course it’s quite possible to do so. The various cults and religious thinking which has come out over the past several years demonstrate this very clearly. In Europe the biggest cult was built by one man. Adolph Hitler. The problem in most cases is pragmatism. If it works, don’t fix it. Sadly it’s also quite possible to start well and go off the rails. The Jim Jones tale is an excellent example. He started off as a fiery young preacher. It ended up with mass suicide. The fact is, God is a jealous God. He watches His people very carefully. If they deliberately want to go astray, He will let them. Remember, partial obedience is disobedience. So before any decision is made; before any plans are put in place, we need to check things out with Him. Furthermore, we must check it out with the other members of the leadership. Always remember that in the New Covenant, a church should be run by consensus by a team with a leader. It should never be by one man; a leader with a team. What tends to happen with a one man band is that the Lord will let them have what they want. The Psalmist states 15 And he gave them their request; but sent leanness into their soul. Psalms 106:15 KJV Another problem we have is that leaders don’t like to be seen as weak. They like to be seen as God’s man of power for the hour. This is the very opposite of what He wants to see. His strength is made perfect in weakness. Paul puts it as follows: 10 Now I take limitations in stride, and with good cheer, these limitations that cut me down to size--abuse, accidents, opposition, bad breaks. I just let Christ take over! And so the weaker I get, the stronger I become.2 Corinthians 12:10 MSG In this morning’s meditation I’ve composed a “letter from God” on this topic. It’s based on the Scriptural principle that indicates, “You want it? You got it!” King Saul is probably the best example of this. The people clamoured for a king. In the end, God said, “You want a King? You got one. King Saul. Try this one for size. King Saul was a disaster. Based on this principle, reinforced by the personal experience of Phyllida and me, I’ve composed this meditation. Please don’t regard it as irreverent. What it is trying to indicate is God’s attitude to people who insist of following the Sinatra doctrine. “I did it my way!” There is only one way to go. His way. The poem is not intended as criticism of any person in particular. It’s not focused on you or anyone else. All I may say is that we see it as God’s heart for today. It does not promote anything or anyone other than complete dependence on God and His Son Jesus Christ. It’s merely a warning against disobedience. Jim and Phyllida Strickland	10 My heart is pounding. I have lost my strength. Even the light of my eyes has left me. Psalms 38:10 GW For the director of music. A psalm of David to be played on stringed instruments. 1 God, hear my cry for help. Listen to my prayer. 2 From a place far away I call out to you. I call out as my heart gets weaker. Lead me to the safety of a rock that is high above me. Psalms 61:1-2 NIrV 9 Each time He said, "My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness." So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me. 10 That's why I take pleasure in my weaknesses and in the insults, hardships, persecutions, and troubles that I suffer for Christ. For when I am weak, then I am strong. 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 NLT 28 Then Peter called to Him, "Lord, if it's really You, tell me to come to You, walking on the water." 29 "Yes, come," Jesus said. So Peter went over the side of the boat and walked on the water toward Jesus. 30 But when he saw the strong wind and the waves, he was terrified and began to sink. "Save me, Lord!" he shouted. 31 Jesus immediately reached out and grabbed him. "You have so little faith," Jesus said. "Why did you doubt Me?" Matthew 14:28-31 NLT 10 If you fall to pieces in a crisis, there wasn't much to you in the first place. Proverbs 24:10 MSG 29 He gives strength to those who are tired. He gives power to those who are weak. Isaiah 40:29 NIrV 27 The eternal God is your refuge, and His everlasting arms are under you. He drives out the enemy before you; He cries out, 'Destroy them!' Deuteronomy 33:27 NLT 11 We ask him to strengthen you by his glorious might with all the power you need to patiently endure everything with joy. Colossians 1:11 GW	“If you insist on doing it, go on then, have a go. What happened to you last time? Did I not tell you so? If you want to do it, I’ll let you carry on. I’ll let you keep on trying till all your strength has gone. It seems you keep forgetting, I only help the weak. So when the wheels start coming off, don’t turn around to seek, If I am walking with you. I’ll let you make a mess. Perhaps when you have had enough, you’ll ask if I will bless, The things which you are trying. But it was your idea! You didn’t even talk to me or ask Me to draw near! Many folk have thought that if you do things in My Name Then I’m obliged to bless it. Such thinking is insane. Of course I will assist you if the suggestion’s Mine. But then it must be done the way of Jesus Christ Divine. I’m not some sort of slot machine with money in the slot! It’s Me Who is omnipotent! I’m sorry, you are not! Don’t try some verbal “arm-lock”. It surely won’t succeed. Even if you bawl and squall. Not even if you plead, You have the wrong idea. It doesn’t work that way. Before you start with anything, just take the time to pray. Check if what you’re wanting is what I want from you. Moses sent a dozen spies and I’d not told him to. It was one big disaster. They brought back a report. It made the folk so terrified the whole plan came to naught I told them they should take the land. They sent in spies instead. The net result was at the end the adults all were dead. They wandered in the wilderness for almost forty years They thought that I would change My mind. They shed so many tears But it was not productive. That was their cost for sin. Unbelief had taken them. They would not enter in. So listen very carefully. I don’t want you to fail. But if you try it on your own! That is another tale. Far better if you listen and let Me show the way. There isn’t an alternative for Christians today. My purpose is to bless you; for you to get it right. Do the things I show you and I’ll bless you “out of sight”. Don’t be in a hurry. Take time to fast and pray. Put things to your leadership. Consult with them each day There isn’t a “Lone Ranger”. Those days are dead and gone. Let them see your weakness. Then when you call upon, My Son for His assistance, He’ll make your weakness strong And all that I intended for you will not go wrong” Jim Strickland – Written 13th May 2012

THE INCREDIBLE CHRIST

Time with Jesus - Saturday, 12 May 2012

Hi all,

Almost 30 years ago, one of my favourite Bible teachers visited South Africa. He came to Emmanuel Church which subsequently became New Life Church in Bryanston. On that occasion he brought a brilliant series of teachings on the New Covenant. He also had a 6 tape series entitled, “The Incredible Christ” It was one of the best audio-tape series on the person and work of Jesus Christ I've ever heard. Today’s meditation is about the Incredible Christ.

Blessings

Jim & Phyllida Strickland

Time with Jesus – Saturday, 12 May 2012
INTRODUCTION	DAILY LIGHT EVENING SCRIPTURES	THE INCREDIBLE CHRIST
Over the past 50 odd years, many people have asked me, “Who is/was Jesus Christ?” They were willing to listen but most of them had great difficulty believing Who He is/was. Essentially, it’s a credibility problem. They’ve heard one or two things about Him. But believing that He is the Son of God to them is incredible. One of the main reasons for this is because over 2000 odd years, many people have become “vaccinated” against Christianity. People have become accustomed to the idea that nations can be Christians. For example they will say that England is a Christian country. This of course is impossible. It’s like talking about a Christian dog or a Christian rose. Only a person can be Christian. Moreover, God has no grand-children. He is either your Heavenly Father or He isn’t. You have to make the decision for yourself. This is not something that can be handed down like the family jewels. It is a personal relationship between the Lord and yourself. You either have this relationship, or you don’t. It’s up to you! In his letter to the Romans, Paul states: 22 Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference: Romans 3:22 KJV. Notice that righteousness (right standing with God) is available unto all men and women. But it is only on those who believe. It’s your choice. You cannot make it for anyone else. This excludes every family member, including your wife or husband. They must make their own decision. Neither you nor the pope can do it for them. In the main, this has come about as a result of the religious system thrust upon us by “clergy” and the “established church”, including our present charismatic preferences. In the main we are not encouraged to think for ourselves. Better to follow the “flavour of the day”. After all, there is no need to think if our Pastor, Minister or Priest will do it for us. So Christianity has been devalued and compressed into that which our leaders’ wanted. But that is not Christianity. It is a religious system we have adopted and approved. Where is the intimate relationship with Jesus Christ which He makes available to those who love Him? It is disturbing to know that all that really matters from God’s point of view is whether or not we love His Son. Church and conference attendance is not a qualification. Paying tithes and doing what your pastor says is not a qualifying requirement. There is only one question any of us will be asked? What have you and I done with Jesus Christ? What is His credibility with you? He will either be Lord of all or not at all. It’s your choice! Jim & Phyllida Strickland	20 Reproaches have broken my heart, so that I am in despair. I looked for pity, but there was none, and for comforters, but I found none. Psalms 69:20 ESV 55 Then they scoffed, "He's just the carpenter's son, and we know Mary, His mother, and His brothers - James, Joseph, Simon, and Judas. Matthew 13:55 NLT 46 "Nazareth! Can anything good come from there?" Nathanael asked. "Come and see," said Philip. John 1:46 NIrV 48 The people retorted, "You Samaritan devil! Didn't we say all along that You were possessed by a demon?" John 8:48 NLT 34 But the Pharisees said, "He can cast out demons because He is empowered by the prince of demons." Matthew 9:34 NLT 24 So for the second time they called in the man who had been blind and told him, "God should get the glory. We know this man Jesus is a sinner." John 9:24 NLT 12 There was a lot of grumbling about Him among the crowds. Some argued, "He's a good man," but others said, "He's nothing but a fraud who deceives the people." John 7:12 NLT 3 And behold, some of the scribes said to themselves, "This man is blaspheming." Matthew 9:3 ESV 19 The Son of Man came eating and drinking, and they say, 'Look at him! A glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners!' Yet wisdom is justified by her deeds." Matthew 11:19 ESV 25 It is enough for a student to become like his teacher and a slave like his owner. If they have called the owner of the house Beelzebub, they will certainly call the family members the same name. Matthew 10:25 GW 19 For God is pleased with you when you do what you know is right and patiently endure unfair treatment. 20 Of course, you get no credit for being patient if you are beaten for doing wrong. But if you suffer for doing good and endure it patiently, God is pleased with you. 21 For God called you to do good, even if it means suffering, just as Christ suffered for you. He is your example, and you must follow in His steps. 22 He never sinned, nor ever deceived anyone. 23 He did not retaliate when He was insulted, nor threaten revenge when He suffered. He left His case in the hands of God, who always judges fairly. 1 Peter 2:19-23 NLT 14 So be happy when you are insulted for being a Christian, for then the glorious Spirit of God rests upon you. [On their part He is blasphemed, but on your part He is glorified.] 1 Peter 4:14 NLT	The biggest problem Jesus had was credibility. The people didn’t know Him and all asked, “Who is He?” Not many people thought that He might be the Son of God. And all the things He said and did they thought was rather odd. He ate and drank with sinners. They knew His mother well. The wife of the late carpenter; was all that they could tell. His brothers and His sisters could hardly help a bit. He was the eldest brother, who didn’t seem to fit, Into the greater picture of that Galilean town. Nazareth was not ideal in which to settle down. There was the Roman garrison the locals loved to hate. The soldiers wanted everything, all served up on a plate. Prostitutes in great demand, with betting on the side. An easy place for any thief to run away and hide. The Son of God! From Nazareth! That surely couldn’t be. The only thing that came from there was downright infamy! So who was this strange teacher who knew a thing or two? He might have been a prophet, but no one really knew. He seemed to have a following who thought that He was great. But was He someone special? No one could clearly state. Some thought Him a Samaritan and some demon possessed. But this was rather difficulty; for all He touched, were blessed! A demon wouldn’t do that! On top of that, He drinks! A friend of Tax collectors! We wonder who He thinks, He is in all His travels. He shouldn’t act that way. He heals men on the Sabbath! You don’t work on that day. Some said He’s a blasphemer. Some thought that He was mad. His family tried to stop Him. Some said He was just bad. The people couldn’t understand that all He did and said, Came to Him from His Father, for He was Spirit led. His very close disciples took three long years to know, That He had come from heaven and to the cross would go. How could they comprehend it? God doesn’t work that way. But then they saw Him risen and death was slain that day. A couple of weeks later, all things were turned around. The Holy Spirit came on them with fire and rushing sound! Henceforth, His credibility, no longer was in doubt. The Son of God had been with them! The truth at last was out! Jim Strickland – Written 12th May 2012