Preaching the Gospel

January 22

(Acts 2:22-23 NIV)  ""Men of Israel, listen to this: Jesus of Nazareth was a man accredited by God to you by miracles, wonders and signs, which God did among you through him, as you yourselves know. {23} This man was handed over to you by God's set purpose and foreknowledge; and you, with the help of wicked men, put him to death by nailing him to the cross."

(1 Corinthians 1:20-25 NIV)  "Where is the wise man? Where is the scholar? Where is the philosopher of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world? {21} For since in the wisdom of God the world through its wisdom did not know him, God was pleased through the foolishness of what was preached to save those who believe. {22} Jews demand miraculous signs and Greeks look for wisdom, {23} but we preach Christ crucified: a stumbling block to Jews and foolishness to Gentiles, {24} but to those whom God has called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God. {25} For the foolishness of God is wiser than man's wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than man's strength."

After Peter had straightened out the mockers on the power of the Holy Spirit, he began to preach the gospel. The gospel according to Peter consisted of two parts: the bad news and the good news -- our need, and God’s grace filled solution. Peter defied all modern calls for a positive introduction to his sermon and began with the bad news -- Jesus had died because of them. He later shared the good news that Jesus had also died for them, but he started by looking them in the eye and telling them that Jesus had died because of them. We could have easily been standing with them on that day, because that’s still a true statement. Jesus died because of us. Our sins nailed Jesus to that cross. We will seldom grasp the depth of God’s love and mercy, until we understand that Jesus died because of us. This truth should rid us of all spiritual smugness. -- Friar Tuck’s Word of the Day 

Everyone Who Calls

January 21

(Acts 2:21 NIV) "And everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved."

(John 3:16 NIV) "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life."

(Psalms 116:1-6 NIV) ““I love the Lord, for he heard my voice; he heard my cry for mercy. {2} Because he turned his ear to me, I will call on him as long as I live. {3} The cords of death entangled me, the anguish of the grave came upon me; I was overcome by trouble and sorrow. {4} Then I called on the name of the Lord: "O Lord, save me!" {5} The Lord is gracious and righteous; our God is full of compassion. {6} The Lord protects the simple hearted; when I was in great need, he saved me.””

(Genesis 12:7-8 NIV) ““The Lord appeared to Abram and said, "To your offspring I will give this land." So he built an altar there to the Lord, who had appeared to him. {8} From there he went on toward the hills east of Bethel and pitched his tent, with Bethel on the west and Ai on the east. There he built an altar to the Lord and called on the name of the Lord.””

Acts 2:21 is one of the most generous verses in Scripture. “Everyone” can be saved, if we call on the name of the Lord. It’s an echo of John 3:16, where Jesus says, “Whoever believes in Him will have eternal life.” Salvation and eternity are available to all who believe God and call upon the name of the Lord. What does it mean to call upon the name of the Lord? It means that in desperation, we cry out, “Save me Lord.” But it’s more than just asking to be saved. It entails a pursuit of God’s blessing. In our heart, we build an altar for the Lord, and lay our life on it. We acknowledge the Lordship of Christ, and submit ourselves to His authority and to His sovereign will. “Calling on the name of the Lord” involves more than just a little prayer. It means a total surrender to Jesus. This is the way of faith and salvation. This is the way to eternal life. -- Friar Tuck’s Word of the Day

Called to Preach

January 20

(Acts 2:14-20 NIV) ““Then Peter stood up with the Eleven, raised his voice and addressed the crowd: "Fellow Jews and all of you who live in Jerusalem, let me explain this to you; listen carefully to what I say. {15} These men are not drunk, as you suppose. It's only nine in the morning! {16} No, this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel: {17} "'In the last days, God says, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your young men will see visions, your old men will dream dreams. {18} Even on my servants, both men and women, I will pour out my Spirit in those days, and they will prophesy. {19} I will show wonders in the heaven above and signs on the earth below, blood and fire and billows of smoke. {20} The sun will be turned to darkness and the moon to blood before the coming of the great and glorious day of the Lord.””

(Acts 9:17-20 NIV) ““Then Ananias went to the house and entered it. Placing his hands on Saul, he said, "Brother Saul, the Lord--Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as you were coming here--has sent me so that you may see again and be filled with the Holy Spirit." {18} Immediately, something like scales fell from Saul's eyes, and he could see again. He got up and was baptized, {19} and after taking some food, he regained his strength. Saul spent several days with the disciples in Damascus. {20} At once he began to preach in the synagogues that Jesus is the Son of God.""

(1 Corinthians 9:16 NIV) "Yet when I preach the gospel, I cannot boast, for I am compelled to preach. Woe to me if I do not preach the gospel!"

(Isaiah 61:1-3 NIV) "The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me, because the Lord has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners, {2} to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor and the day of vengeance of our God, to comfort all who mourn, {3} and provide for those who grieve in Zion-- to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord for the display of his splendor."

When the Holy Spirit comes in power, someone will be called to preach. Here, it was Peter -- later it was Paul -- eventually, it may be you. Peter had no formal training, but God compelled him to preach. Preaching can take many forms, from exposition of the Scriptures, to one-on-one witnessing about what God has done in our lives. Peter opened the Scriptures in a new way, and told the mockers that they were not hearing drunken speech, but the voice of God. He proclaimed the sovereignty of God and the amazing grace of the Lord. He told them that their prophets had seen this day coming, and that the Holy Spirit was being poured out for all people. No one would be excluded from the chance to accept God’s grace. That’s still true today. Jesus calls us to receive Him, and then calls us to preach the gospel in some way. -- Friar Tuck’s Word of the Day

Mocking God

January 19  

(Acts 2:13 NIV) "Some, however, made fun of them and said, "They have had too much wine."

(Matthew 27:37-44 NIV) "Above his head they placed the written charge against him: THIS IS JESUS, THE KING OF THE JEWS. {38} Two robbers were crucified with him, one on his right and one on his left. {39} Those who passed by hurled insults at him, shaking their heads {40} and saying, "You who are going to destroy the temple and build it in three days, save yourself! Come down from the cross, if you are the Son of God!" {41} In the same way the chief priests, the teachers of the law and the elders mocked him. {42} "He saved others," they said, "but he can't save himself! He's the King of Israel! Let him come down now from the cross, and we will believe in him. {43} He trusts in God. Let God rescue him now if he wants him, for he said, 'I am the Son of God.'" {44} In the same way the robbers who were crucified with him also heaped insults on him."

When God’s Spirit came in power, many people still did not get it. All they heard was gibberish. They mocked the disciples, saying, “Don’t listen to them, they’re just a bunch of drunks.” They were probably some of the same people who mocked Jesus as He died for their sins on the cross. We can learn from this. We won’t be able to speak everyone’s language, even with God’s help. Some will just never hear. Don’t expect everyone to react with enthusiasm when you share your witness. Many will write you off as an idiot, or as one under some kind of spell. They will ridicule your faith. They mocked Jesus and the disciples -- they will mock you. When the Spirit comes in power to change your life and your language, many will still mock the work of God. They will cover their ears and shake their heads. But keep speaking God’s language, because some will hear. Some will hear! -- Friar Tuck’s Word of the Day  

Communicating God’s Wonders

January 18

(Acts 2:2-8 NIV) "Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. {3} They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. {4} All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them. {5} Now there were staying in Jerusalem God-fearing Jews from every nation under heaven. {6} When they heard this sound, a crowd came together in bewilderment, because each one heard them speaking in his own language. {7} Utterly amazed, they asked: "Are not all these men who are speaking Galileans? {8} Then how is it that each of us hears them in his own native language?” And all those there that day said, “We hear them declaring the wonders of God in our own tongues!"

When the Holy Spirit came at Pentecost, God sounded like wind and looked like fire -- there was no “small, still voice” that day. The city was filled with pilgrims from every nation, and the Spirit enabled the apostles to speak of His wonders in their languages. The power of God also enabled people from every nation to hear of His wonders in their language. Those who spoke were important, but the big story in these verses is those who heard. God’s gift to the apostles was significant, but it had a purpose: to share His wondrous gospel with people who had not yet heard. The gift was not a “perk” -- it was a tool, a means to an end. The Message takes priority over the messengers and the gift that was given to them. How is your “Jesus language”? Can people understand you? Are you communicating God’s truth in a language people can comprehend? Ask for God’s help. -- Friar Tuck’s Word of the Day

All Together In One Place

January 17

(Acts 2:1 NIV) "When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place.

(Romans 15:5-6 NIV) "May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus, {6} so that with one heart and mouth you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ."

(Psalms 133:1 NIV) "How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in unity!"

On that first Pentecost after Christ’s ascension, the disciples were “altogether in one place”. They stuck together and waited on God. When the Spirit came to fill and embolden the church, they were “altogether in one place”. Not only does the Holy Spirit bring unity, unity brings the Holy Spirit. It is difficult for God to dwell in a church filled with dissension. God’s Spirit works best where there is harmony. This is why power struggles and infighting are so destructive in the church. It’s why God tells us to continuously work at reconciliation between one another. We can’t be “all together in one place” when we’re busy backstabbing one another. But when the church lives and works together in unity, good things happen as His Spirit moves in power. Petty divisions and personal agendas fade in their importance, and Christ is glorified. What true disciple would not want to see that happen? -- Friar Tuck’s Word of the Day

Prayer That Works

January 16

(Acts 1:24 NIV)  "Then they prayed, "Lord, you know everyone's heart. Show us which of these two you have chosen"

(Acts 1:14 NIV)  "They all joined together constantly in prayer..."

(Romans 12:12 NIV)  "Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer."

(Philippians 4:6 NIV)  "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God."

The early church prayed constantly because they believed that God is sovereign. They trusted God enough to pray that His sovereign will would be revealed to them, and that it would be worked out in their lives. They wanted to be in the will of God more than they wanted anything else. One of the reasons so many Christians are confused about the will of God these days is that they seldom get down to seeking God’s will in prayer. Couple that with a general apathy about spending time in God’s word, and you end up with sheep who can be led around by almost any shepherd who tickles their ears. They operate by feelings, instead of by the word and prayer. Sincere prayer, coupled with time in the word, can lead us to where God wants us to be. Get back to prayer -- not to get what you want, but to discern what God wants you to have. -- Friar Tuck’s Word of the Day

Sovereign God

January 15

(Acts 1:23-26 NIV)  "So they proposed two men: Joseph called Barsabbas (also known as Justus) and Matthias. {24} Then they prayed, "Lord, you know everyone's heart. Show us which of these two you have chosen {25} to take over this apostolic ministry, which Judas left to go where he belongs." {26} Then they cast lots, and the lot fell to Matthias; so he was added to the eleven apostles."

(Acts 1:15-16 NIV) ""In those days Peter stood up among the believers (a group numbering about a hundred and twenty) {16} and said, "Brothers, the Scripture had to be fulfilled…""

(Acts 4:24-28 NIV) ““When they heard this, they raised their voices together in prayer to God. "Sovereign Lord," they said, "you made the heaven and the earth and the sea, and everything in them. {25} You spoke by the Holy Spirit through the mouth of your servant, our father David: "'Why do the nations rage and the peoples plot in vain? {26} The kings of the earth take their stand and the rulers gather together against the Lord and against his Anointed One.' {27} Indeed Herod and Pontius Pilate met together with the Gentiles and the people of Israel in this city to conspire against your holy servant Jesus, whom you anointed. {28} They did what your power and will had decided beforehand should happen.””

The early church believed in the sovereignty of God so strongly that they literally “drew straws” to choose the disciple who would replace Judas. Rather than voting, which would have reflected their choice, they “cast lots”, trusting God to choose, because they believed that God is sovereign. They did their part by offering two godly men, but left the final decision up to their Sovereign Lord. Earlier in Acts, Peter declared that the betrayal of Judas was a fulfillment of Scripture. God’s word said it would happen, and it happened -- because God is sovereign. Later in Acts, the apostles spoke of Herod and Pilate conspiring against Jesus. They declared it the fulfillment of God’s will -- God is sovereign. Is this the God you believe in? Is He the Sovereign Lord of your life? Do you give God opportunities to lead you, or do you run ahead of Him? Are you walking in His sovereign will, or in yours? -- Friar Tuck’s Word of the Day

Witnessing to the Resurrection

January 14

(Acts 1:21-22 NIV) "Therefore it is necessary to choose one of the men who have been with us the whole time the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, {22} beginning from John's baptism to the time when Jesus was taken up from us. For one of these must become a witness with us of his resurrection.""

(Romans 1:1-4 NIV)  "Paul, a servant of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle and set apart for the gospel of God-- {2} the gospel he promised beforehand through his prophets in the Holy Scriptures {3} regarding his Son, who as to his human nature was a descendant of David, {4} and who through the Spirit of holiness was declared with power to be the Son of God by his resurrection from the dead: Jesus Christ our Lord."

Peter listed two criteria for the man who would replace Judas. First, he would need to have been with them since the beginning of Christ’s ministry. More than just the twelve faithfully followed Jesus. Second, he would need to have personally witnessed the resurrection, for the resurrection was the foundation stone of the early church. It’s where they took their stand. It defined who believed. It validated Jesus as Lord and Savior. It changed the disciples into people who would die for Jesus. They witnessed to it at the cost of their very lives. It was their story, and they stuck to it. Is it your story? Would you give your life to share a testimony of Christ’s resurrection in you? Is it still the foundation stone of your church? What has the risen Jesus done in you? Witness to it! The world knows plenty about what the church is against. Now let’s tell them who we live for, and why. -- Friar Tuck’s Word of the Day

It is Written

January 13

(Acts 1:15-20 NIV) "In those days Peter stood up among the believers (a group numbering about a hundred and twenty) {16} and said, "Brothers, the Scripture had to be fulfilled which the Holy Spirit spoke long ago through the mouth of David concerning Judas, who served as guide for those who arrested Jesus-- {17} he was one of our number and shared in this ministry." {18} (With the reward he got for his wickedness, Judas bought a field; there he fell headlong, his body burst open and all his intestines spilled out. {19} Everyone in Jerusalem heard about this, so they called that field in their language Akeldama, that is, Field of Blood.) {20} "For," said Peter, "it is written in the book of Psalms, "'May his place be deserted; let there be no one to dwell in it,' and, "'May another take his place of leadership.'"

(Psalms 69:25 NIV) "May their place be deserted; let there be no one to dwell in their tents."

(Psalms 109:8 NIV) "May his days be few; may another take his place of leadership."

Peter emerged as an early church leader. He stood up, and he spoke up. He addressed the growing number of Christ followers with a message regarding Judas the betrayer. As a leader with integrity, he didn’t sweep failure under the rug. As a godly leader, he set an early precedent -- when he spoke, he spoke from the authority of Scripture. Peter found verses in the Psalms that applied to the betrayer, along with a word about what to do next. The Bible is not just for moral teaching. It can help us make sense of events that happen in our lives, and give us direction about what to do in times of loss, trouble, stress, and betrayal. But we cannot know “it is written”, unless we read the word and become intimately acquainted with it. Read the Bible daily in large and small doses. Ditch the excuses and distractions and make knowing God’s word a priority in your life. It is written! -- Friar Tuck’s Word of the Day

Christ’s Family Gets It

January 12

(Acts 1:14 NIV) "They all joined together constantly in prayer, along with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brothers."

(Mark 3:20-21 NIV) "Then Jesus entered a house, and again a crowd gathered, so that he and his disciples were not even able to eat. {21} When his family heard about this, they went to take charge of him, for they said, "He is out of his mind.""

(John 7:1-5 NIV) "After this, Jesus went around in Galilee, purposely staying away from Judea because the Jews there were waiting to take his life. {2} But when the Jewish Feast of Tabernacles was near, {3} Jesus' brothers said to him, "You ought to leave here and go to Judea, so that your disciples may see the miracles you do. {4} No one who wants to become a public figure acts in secret. Since you are doing these things, show yourself to the world." {5} For even his own brothers did not believe in him."

There are many miracles found in Acts, including Christ’s brothers coming to faith. Mary had pondered her Son’s greatness, but His brothers had been antagonistic. Early in Christ’s ministry they even tracked Him down in order to take Him home with them. They believed He had lost His mind. The delusional and grandiose things He said about Himself seemed ludicrous to them. But as time went by, and they heard of the miracles and the healings, their hearts must have softened a bit. Scripture tells us that the risen Jesus appeared to His mother, Mary, and to His brother, James. It was likely through their testimony that the rest of Christ’s family came to faith. There is a lesson here for us. Do not give up on family members who refuse to believe the Gospel. Continue to be love and light. If the risen Christ lives in us, our family may yet see His glory -- even if it happens after our death. -- Friar Tuck’s Word of the Day

Disciples Don’t Quit

January 11

(Acts 1:13 NIV)  "When they arrived, they went upstairs to the room where they were staying. Those present were Peter, John, James and Andrew; Philip and Thomas, Bartholomew and Matthew; James son of Alphaeus and Simon the Zealot, and Judas son of James."

(Matthew 10:1-4 NIV) "He called his twelve disciples to him and gave them authority to drive out evil spirits and to heal every disease and sickness. {2} These are the names of the twelve apostles: first, Simon (who is called Peter) and his brother Andrew; James son of Zebedee, and his brother John; {3} Philip and Bartholomew; Thomas and Matthew the tax collector; James son of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus; {4} Simon the Zealot and Judas Iscariot, who betrayed him."

(John 17:5-12 NIV)  "And now, Father, glorify me in your presence with the glory I had with you before the world began. {6} "I have revealed you to those whom you gave me out of the world. They were yours; you gave them to me and they have obeyed your word. {7} Now they know that everything you have given me comes from you. {8} For I gave them the words you gave me and they accepted them. They knew with certainty that I came from you, and they believed that you sent me. {9} I pray for them. I am not praying for the world, but for those you have given me, for they are yours. {10} All I have is yours, and all you have is mine. And glory has come to me through them. {11} I will remain in the world no longer, but they are still in the world, and I am coming to you. Holy Father, protect them by the power of your name--the name you gave me--so that they may be one as we are one. {12} While I was with them, I protected them and kept them safe by that name you gave me. None has been lost except the one doomed to destruction so that Scripture would be fulfilled."

It is amazing that eleven of Christ’s twelve original disciples remained together after His death. They had been scattered at His arrest, and it would have been easy to remain that way. They could have gone back to what they were doing before they met Jesus. Their leader had been killed, their lives were in danger, and there was enough collective guilt in their group to sink a ship. But three years of being with Jesus, and witnessing His resurrection, had changed them. They didn’t quit because they had become true followers of Christ. This is a great testimony for us today. Disciples don’t quit! The church today has its fair share of “flash in the pan” Christians -- “fair weather” wannabes who hang around with Jesus as long as it’s convenient, easy, and fun. They were around in Christ’s day too, but deserted Him when the teaching got hard. Don’t be found among them. Don’t quit! -- Friar Tuck’s Word of the Day  

Obedience

January 10

(Acts 1:12 NIV) "Then they returned to Jerusalem from the hill called the Mount of Olives, a Sabbath day's walk from the city.”

(Acts 1:4 NIV) "On one occasion, while he was eating with them, he gave them this command: "Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift my Father promised, which you have heard me speak about."

The term “Christian” has taken a beating in recent years. Some new teachers prefer the term “Christ Follower”. But does it really matter what we call those who believe and follow Jesus? The proof of faith is borne out in the content of our living. The early disciples set the tone. They spent enough time with Jesus to receive His teaching, and then, at great risk to their lives, they actually did what Jesus said to do. He told them to “stay in Jerusalem”, and that’s what they did. After His ascension, they returned to Jerusalem. Were they “Christians” or “Christ Followers”? Call them what you will, the hallmark of their faith was obedience to Christ. Will you spend enough time in prayer and in God’s word this year to really hear Him? Will you obey what you hear? As long as God can call us “obedient”, it won’t really matter what the movers and shakers decide to call us. -- Friar Tuck’s Word of the Day

He’s Coming Back - Get Busy

January 9

(Acts 1:10-11 NIV) "They were looking intently up into the sky as he was going, when suddenly two men dressed in white stood beside them. {11} "Men of Galilee," they said, "why do you stand here looking into the sky? This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen him go into heaven.""

(Matthew 24:29-30, 44-46 NIV) ""Immediately after the distress of those days "'the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light; the stars will fall from the sky, and the heavenly bodies will be shaken.' {30} "At that time the sign of the Son of Man will appear in the sky, and all the nations of the earth will mourn. They will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of the sky, with power and great glory… {44} So you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him. {45} "Who then is the faithful and wise servant, whom the master has put in charge of the servants in his household to give them their food at the proper time? {46} It will be good for that servant whose master finds him doing so when he returns.""

(1 Peter 2:11-12 NIV) "Dear friends, I urge you, as aliens and strangers in the world, to abstain from sinful desires, which war against your soul. {12} Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us."

As Jesus ascended into the clouds, the disciples stood around, looking up to the sky. Two angels came and reminded them that He would be coming back and expecting results. They had better get busy with the kingdom building stuff Jesus had spoken about. Hadn’t He told them it would be good for the servants whose master found them working for Him when he returned? They should stop standing around longing for heaven, and get busy being His disciples here on earth. They were to live every day as if He was coming back today. That’s still a good idea! When we do that, the timeline no longer matters. Get out of the holy huddle. Go out and be His witnesses. Stop critiquing and start loving. Do more praising than complaining. Live like Jesus, in the power of the Holy Spirit, and you too can glorify God and live beyond your means. -- Friar Tuck’s Word of the Day

The Ascension - Taken Up

January 8

(Acts 1:9 NIV) "After he said this, he was taken up before their very eyes, and a cloud hid him from their sight."

(Acts 1:1-2 NIV) "I wrote about all that Jesus began to do and to teach {2} until the day he was taken up to heaven..."

(Luke 24:50-52 NIV) "When he had led them out to the vicinity of Bethany, he lifted up his hands and blessed them. {51} While he was blessing them, he left them and was taken up into heaven. {52} Then they worshiped him and returned to Jerusalem with great joy."

(Mark 16:19-20 NIV) "After the Lord Jesus had spoken to them, he was taken up into heaven and he sat at the right hand of God. {20} Then the disciples went out and preached everywhere, and the Lord worked with them and confirmed his word by the signs that accompanied it."

Jesus walked the Earth for some forty days after His resurrection from the dead, teaching His disciples, and giving them some important final instructions. Then, He was taken up to heaven before their eyes. The ascension of Christ is one of the most fantastic stories in Scripture. Jesus gave the disciples one last proof of His divinity. People often ask, “Where is heaven?” We don’t know for sure, but we can say with authority that Jesus was “taken up”. He didn’t go down, nor did He go “poof”, and disappear like a magician. He was “taken up to heaven”. So whatever and wherever heaven is, we know that Jesus went up to get there. This is the context of the word “ascend”. Jesus came down to Earth, and He went back up to be with His Father in heaven. We too will one day ascend to meet the Lord in the air. What a glorious day that will be! -- Friar Tuck’s Word of the Day   

We’re on a Mission from God

January 7

(Acts 1:8 NIV) "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth."

(Isaiah 43:10-12 NIV) ""You are my witnesses," declares the Lord, "and my servant whom I have chosen, so that you may know and believe me and understand that I am he. Before me no god was formed, nor will there be one after me. {11} I, even I, am the Lord, and apart from me there is no savior. {12} I have revealed and saved and proclaimed-- I, and not some foreign god among you. You are my witnesses," declares the Lord, "that I am God."

One of John Belushi’s famous lines in “The Blues Brothers” movie was, “We’re on a mission from God.” This is also what Jesus told His disciples. In his final instructions, He told them that God’s coming baptism would infuse them with a power they had never had before. They would receive this power so that they could be witnesses for the Kingdom of God in their hometowns, in the cities and states near them, and to nations all over the earth. We too, have been set apart to be His witnesses. We’re on a mission from God. When we believe and receive the Holy Spirit, the power of God comes into our lives for a reason: so we can be his witnesses and attract others to His Kingdom. We are called to be His witnesses to those down the road and across the street, and we are to be His witnesses to those in other lands and across the sea. We are on a mission from God! -- Friar Tuck’s Word of the Day 

Stay Focused

January 6

(Acts 1:6-7 NIV) "So when they met together, they asked him, "Lord, are you at this time going to restore the kingdom to Israel?" {7} He said to them: "It is not for you to know the times or dates the Father has set by his own authority."

(Matthew 24:36-39 NIV) "No one knows about that day or hour, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. {37} As it was in the days of Noah, so it will be at the coming of the Son of Man. {38} For in the days before the flood, people were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, up to the day Noah entered the ark; {39} and they knew nothing about what would happen until the flood came and took them all away. That is how it will be at the coming of the Son of Man."

As the disciples gathered around the risen Christ, they wanted details about the future. They wanted to know when He would return and restore the Kingdom of God. Jesus told them it was none of their business. His return date was not to take up too much of their time and energy. They were to mind their business, which was establishing the Kingdom of God on earth. That’s still good advice. Stay focused on the right stuff. Stop worrying about what is coming next, or when it is coming. Focus on what you can do now. Light up the world with the love of Jesus. Witness to the power of the life changing Gospel with your changed life. Pray for lost people and for one another. Minister to the poor, the weak, the sick, the addicted, and the dying. Help people find Jesus so their lives can be changed, and their souls can be saved. That’s our business. That’s our mission. Stay focused! -- Friar Tuck’s Word of the Day

Waiting On God

January 5

(Acts 1:4-5 NIV) "On one occasion, while he was eating with them, he gave them this command: "Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift my Father promised, which you have heard me speak about. {5} For John baptized with water, but in a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.""

(Psalm 27:14 NIV) "Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord."

(Psalm 37:7 NIV) "Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him;"

(Psalm 46:10 NIV) "Be still, and know that I am God;"

(Isaiah 40:31 ESV) “… they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.”

Even though it was dangerous, the risen Christ told His disciples to stay put and remain in Jerusalem. That may be good advice today, as we struggle with commitment and contentment. Fickle spirits contaminate the church, and we end up changing churches as often as we change our socks. There are various excuses. “I’m not being fed… I don’t feel the Spirit… They aren’t friendly enough… Somebody ticked me off.” But usually, the real reasons go deeper. Maybe we were confronted with a hard truth, or called to change a behavior. Perhaps we were asked to contribute, or maybe we just didn’t get our way -- and so we bail. But before we change churches, we should consider changing our hearts. Moving around is not necessarily moving up. If we leave Jerusalem before it’s time, we may miss what God has for us. There may be exceptions, but consider staying put for now. -- Friar Tuck’s Word of the Day

Stay Put

January 4

(Acts 1:4 NIV) "On one occasion, while he was eating with them, he gave them this command: "Do not leave Jerusalem…"

(Philippians 4:11-13 NIV) "I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. {12} I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. {13} I can do everything through him who gives me strength."

(Jeremiah 29:11 NIV) "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."

Even though it was dangerous, the risen Christ told His disciples to stay put and remain in Jerusalem. That may be good advice today, as we struggle with commitment and contentment. Fickle spirits contaminate the church, and we end up changing churches as often as we change our socks. There are various excuses. “I’m not being fed… I don’t feel the Spirit… They aren’t friendly enough… Somebody ticked me off.” But usually, the real reasons go deeper. Maybe we were confronted with a hard truth, or called to change a behavior. Perhaps we were asked to contribute, or maybe we just didn’t get our way -- and so we bail. But before we change churches, we should consider changing our hearts. Moving around is not necessarily moving up. If we leave Jerusalem before it’s time, we may miss what God has for us. There may be exceptions, but consider staying put for now. -- Friar Tuck’s Word of the Day

Forty Days of Preaching the Kingdom

January 3

(Acts 1:3 NIV) "After his suffering, he showed himself to these men and gave many convincing proofs that he was alive. He appeared to them over a period of forty days and spoke about the kingdom of God."

(John 20:26-31 NIV) "A week later his disciples were in the house again, and Thomas was with them. Though the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood among them and said, "Peace be with you!" {27} Then he said to Thomas, "Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe." {28} Thomas said to him, "My Lord and my God!" {29} Then Jesus told him, "Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed." {30} Jesus did many other miraculous signs in the presence of his disciples, which are not recorded in this book. {31} But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name."

(1 Corinthians 15:1-8 NIV)  "Now, brothers, I want to remind you of the gospel I preached to you, which you received and on which you have taken your stand. {2} By this gospel you are saved, if you hold firmly to the word I preached to you. Otherwise, you have believed in vain. {3} For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, {4} that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures, {5} and that he appeared to Peter, and then to the Twelve. {6} After that, he appeared to more than five hundred of the brothers at the same time, most of whom are still living, though some have fallen asleep. {7} Then he appeared to James, then to all the apostles, {8} and last of all he appeared to me also, as to one abnormally born."

After His resurrection, Jesus spent forty days appearing to people, convincing them that He was alive. He walked among them. He ate and drank with them. They touched Him and listened to Him as He preached about the Kingdom of God. The Kingdom of God is mentioned over fifty times in the Gospels, and was Christ’s favorite topic following His resurrection. It is the most important topic we can consider. How we respond to the Lordship of Christ is crucial. It is the most lasting thing about us. How we think of Jesus affects the course of our life, and will determine our eternal destiny. Jesus wants to be more than just our Savior from sin. He also wants to be Lord and King of our life. Only when we live as citizens of Christ’s Kingdom can we experience life to its fullest, and live beyond our means spiritually. We never outgrow our need for teaching about the Kingdom of God. -- Friar Tuck’s Word of the Day

Dr. Luke - A Giant of the Faith

January 2

(Acts 1:1-2 NIV) “In my former book, Theophilus, I wrote about all that Jesus began to do and to teach {2} until the day he was taken up to heaven, after giving instructions through the Holy Spirit to the apostles he had chosen.”

(Luke 1:1-4 NIV) "Many have undertaken to draw up an account of the things that have been fulfilled among us, {2} just as they were handed down to us by those who from the first were eyewitnesses and servants of the word. {3} Therefore, since I myself have carefully investigated everything from the beginning, it seemed good also to me to write an orderly account for you, most excellent Theophilus, {4} so that you may know the certainty of the things you have been taught."

Most Bible scholars agree that a physician named Luke was the author of Acts, and that the “former book” he speaks of is what we know as the Gospel of Luke. He wasn’t one of the original disciples, but came to faith early in the church’s history. Luke was a physician who accompanied some of the early disciples on their journeys. He is also referred to in several of Paul’s epistles. The Gospel of Luke and the book of Acts were likely a two-volume set, written to share the story of Jesus and the early church. Luke had been commissioned by a man named Theophilus. Early in the Gospel of Luke, this man is referred to as “most excellent Theophilus”, which indicates that he was a high-ranking government official -- one who had become a seeker of truth. Luke gave him a full dose of Jesus, and if we finish his book, that’s what we will also get from this giant of the faith. Thank you Dr. Luke. -- Friar Tuck’s Word of the Day

Living Beyond Your Means

January 1

(Acts 1:1-2 NIV) “In my former book, Theophilus, I wrote about all that Jesus began to do and to teach {2} until the day he was taken up to heaven, after giving instructions through the Holy Spirit to the apostles he had chosen.”

The first two verses of the book of Acts give us some important details about Jesus Christ. He lived and died, and then was raised to life again. After His resurrection, He taught His chosen apostles in the power of the Holy Spirit, preparing them for His departure. He was then taken up to heaven by God. In two verses, Luke recognizes the sovereignty of God, establishes the resurrection and the ascension as historical events, and declares the apostles as divinely chosen to establish Christ’s church. Many books in the Bible teach what Christianity should look like when lived out in the individual believer. The book of Acts teaches what Christianity should look like when lived out corporately as the church. It is the story of ordinary people trusting in God fully, and being enabled to do things that were far beyond their ability. By faith, they lived beyond their means -- and by faith, we can too. -- Friar Tuck’s Word of the Day