Witness of the Light
Light in the Night!
Terry R. Baughman

“Suddenly a man appeared who was sent from God, a messenger named John. For he came as a witness, to point the way to the Light of Life, and to help everyone believe” (John 1:6–7 TPT).

Many self-proclaimed messiahs came before Jesus was born. They all had a military agenda, to overthrow the Roman oppressors. Their view of prophecy was that when Messiah came He would sit upon the throne of David and once again reign as king of Israel. Surely, they would find deliverance from their adversaries, establish an independent rule, and enjoy another era of peace and prosperity that was long in their past. So pervasive was this view of the prophets that even among the disciples there was a question of when the kingdom would be returned to Israel. That was also the last question they asked after His resurrection and before His ascension, “Lord, will You at this time restore the kingdom to Israel?” (Acts 1:6 NKJ).

God’s plan for peace and prosperity was quite different. Indeed, Jesus came to set captives free and deliver the people from bondage, but it was not in the way they imagined. Jesus came to establish another type of Kingdom, a spiritual Kingdom unlike any other. He explained to Pilate, “My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, My servants would fight, so that I should not be delivered to the Jews; but now My kingdom is not from here” (John 18:36 NKJ). 

John the Baptist had insight from the Spirit as to the role of Jesus, the Messiah. He proclaimed Him to be, “The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!” (John 1:29 NKJ). John recognized that Jesus would increase in the course of ministry while John would decrease. John was the forerunner, the one who prepared the way for Messiah. Through John’s preaching of repentance, hearts were convicted of sin and ready to embrace the coming Messiah in faith. Even John’s disciples would be introduced to Jesus and would leave to follow Him. 

The Apostle John wrote that the baptizer was truly sent from God, not to be the Messiah, but to be a witness of the One who was to come. Jesus was the Light of the world. John recognized that truth and became the “witness of the Light, that all through him might believe.” Jesus was, “the true Light which gives light to every man coming into the world” (John 1:7,9 NKJ). 

The prophet Isaiah predicted the coming of the messenger calling out, “In the wilderness prepare the way for the Lord; make straight in the desert a highway for our God” (Isaiah 40:3 NIV). John the Baptist was that messenger who prepared the way and bore witness of the Light. Isaiah also prophesied, “The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned” (Isaiah 9:2 NIV). Matthew recognized that this was fulfilled in Jesus who began His ministry in Galilee of the Gentiles, preaching, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand” (Matthew 4:17 NKJ).

We, who have received the light of truth in our lives, now have the privilege and responsibility to also be witnesses of the Light. We know that Jesus, “the perfect Light of Truth was coming into the world,” and His purpose is to, “shine upon everyone” (John 1:9 TPT). Let Him shine, and let us be the witnesses of His glory!
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Theme passage:
“A fountain of life was in him, for his life is light for all humanity. And this Light never fails to shine through darkness—Light that darkness could not overcome! (John 1:4-5 TPT).

Our Heritage
Thanksgiving!
Terry R. Baughman

“For You, O God, have heard my vows; You have given me the heritage of those who fear Your name” (Psalm 61:5 NKJ).

A heritage of faith is of great value and should be highly prized. No one has the choice of where they were born, or what their family is like. Some have been born in deplorable conditions and endured great suffering, while others have experienced a loving home and unmatched support through their lives. While we have no choice of our beginnings, many of us have had the opportunity to embrace faith and find a new and welcoming community of believers, that provide that shelter of support and embrace we may not have known previously. 

Some were born in Christian homes and raised to follow scriptural principles and enjoyed the blessings of the church community from childhood. Others have had no knowledge of God and may have even considered themselves atheists, having never been taught biblical stories, or the simple message of the Gospel. However, it is God’s plan that all people may have the opportunity to know Him and come to faith that will completely transform their lives. Peter said that God is long-suffering, One who keeps His promises, and He is, “Not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance” (2 Peter 3:9 NKJ).

Jesus came to earth to give Himself as a ransom for sin, so that, “Whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life” (John 3:16 NKJ). He also stated, “I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly” (John 10:10 NKJ). These truths that may be common to us are new to those who have never heard them. It is our desire to transmit the Gospel story in simplicity and in love to those who have never heard, so they too can come into a relationship with Jesus Christ and share in the born-again experience.

Some of us were born in homes of faith where the Word of God was read, church attendance was practiced, and many opportunities were given to grow in faith and a personal experience of salvation was encouraged. Some Pentecostals today trace their heritage for seven or eight generations. This is an awesome lineage among families of faith. However, it is just as important that each generation come to a place of believing in Jesus Christ and experiencing the New Birth for themselves. No one inherits the Spirit or becomes a Christian by nativity. All must be born again! Jesus said, “Unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God” (John 3:5 NKJ). 

Every child of God is a first generation Christian. All must surrender their lives to Christ and choose to follow Him. Whether we have a family lineage or not, we have the opportunity to have, “the heritage of those who fear Your name” (Psalm 61:5 NKJ). Paul became a father in the Gospel to the young man Timothy. However, Paul recognized the value of his upbringing, and those who had helped to shape his life of faith. Paul wrote to Timothy, “I’m filled with joy as I think of your strong faith that was passed down through your family line. It began with your grandmother Lois, who passed it on to your dear mother, Eunice. And it’s clear that you too are following in the footsteps of their godly example”  (2 Timothy 1:4–5 TPT). Let us be the beginning of a family that loves God, one who passes on the heritage of faith and becomes one who honors His great name! 

Theme passage:
“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you” (1 Thessalonians 5:16–18 NKJ).

Practice Peace
Rejoice in Jesus!
Terry R. Baughman

“Put into practice the example of all that you have heard from me or seen in my life and the God of peace will be with you in all things” (Philippians 4:9 TPT).

Our series concludes with this instruction. Put the example into practice! Being a Christ follower is not a one and done deal. It requires discipline and continual practice. The things that we have heard, studied, and been taught, must be integrated into our lives, and applied in a practical way.

Paul wrote to the young Timothy that he should, “Continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of, because you know those from whom you learned it, and how from infancy you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus” (2 Timothy 3:14–15 NIV). We all learn from the example of others and should put those good lessons into practice. When we know the lives of our mentors we are confident to follow their teachings and their example. 

Paul’s example, and ours’ should be the same, allowing the God of peace to be shown in all that we do. It’s not just one lesson that we’ve learned and passed the quiz, but several life lessons that Paul leaves with us. He tells us to put all these examples into action in our Christian living. 

Paul demonstrated the principles that he taught and was unapologetic in his request for believers to follow him as he followed Christ. (See 1 Corinthians 11:1 KJV.) In the NIV Paul is quoted, “Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.” The NKJV used the word imitate in the passage, “Imitate me, just as I also imitate Christ.” 

In the previous chapter of our text Paul wrote, “Join together in following my example, brothers and sisters, and just as you have us as a model, keep your eyes on those who live as we do” (Philippians 3:17 NIV). These character qualities should be seen in the lives of all believers. That’s for our example, and to be an example to others who seek God’s path. Seek out those who are followers of Jesus, and follow those whose lives reflect His transformation. 

Sometimes we are reluctant to ask people to follow our lead and practice our example. It could be that we are not confident in our relationship with God, or that we are not being intentional about following biblical teaching. To ask someone to follow our example is not to presume perfection, or, a prideful arrogance, but to pledge integrity in our lifestyle, and a desire to fulfill His leading, and continue in His way.

The result of those who put into practice Paul’s example are assured the peace of God will be with them in all things. What greater outcome could we expect or desire than the assurance of the peace of God to fill our lives. In a world of chaos and constant striving, it is a blessed promise to have the assurance of peace in our relationship with God. 

As we practice the spiritual and scriptural lessons we have learned, we will continue to experience the great peace of God. His peace is that, “peace of God, which transcends all understanding” (Philippians 4:7 NIV). Let us practice for peace!

Theme passage:
“My beloved ones, don’t ever limit your joy or fail to rejoice in the wonderful experience of knowing our Lord Jesus!” (Philippians 3:1 TPT).

Fixed Thoughts
Rejoice in Jesus!
Terry R. Baughman

“Keep your thoughts continually fixed on all that is authentic and real, honorable and admirable, beautiful and respectful, pure and holy, merciful and kind. And fasten your thoughts on every glorious work of God, praising him always” (Philippians 4:8 TPT).

Paul gave wise guidance on channeling our thoughts on positive qualities and thereby avoiding the pitfalls of rambling damaging mind games. This text in the New King James version is time-tested and helpful. Paul said, “Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things” (Philippians 4:8 NKJ). 

However, the same text in The Passion Translation begins with a challenge to our will to always control our thoughts in this positive direction, “Keep your thoughts continually fixed ….” This indicates that we have the ability to develop a discipline for our minds. These passages provide an answer to those who maintain that they cannot control their thoughts. While we cannot stop thinking, we can replace negative images and impure thoughts with wholesome substitutes. Reading God’s Word, or positive spiritual devotions can help fill our minds with a healthy alternative thoughts. Christian music and uplifting programs can also improve the tenor of our thought life.  

On the basis of the previous verse (Philippians 4:7), we understand that the peace of God will set parameters for our hearts and minds. Understanding the Spirit’s guidance and assistance, it is entirely possible to maintain fixed boundaries for the fields of our imagination and the containment of our roaming thoughts. As we keep our thought continually fixed on godly characteristics we will find it even easier to maintain control of our minds. 

Review the substance of our thought pantry. Open the door to the vast array of healthy ingredients to a more fulfilling and joyful existence. Here are some samples of the inventory from which to choose:

• Authentic and real, thoughts that ring true and resonate as right and proper.
• Honorable and admirable, noteworthy attributes that bring admiration and honor.
• Beautiful and respectful, thoughts that evoke pleasant associations and engender respect.
• Pure and holy, wholesome and godly characteristics and behaviors that produce positive reputations.
• Merciful and kind, thoughts that evoke virtues of loyalty, kindness, and grace.

These thoughts and the resulting actions will produce a wellspring of praise to God and be a continuing reflection of the glory of God in our lives. We are instructed to meditate or think on all of these things. As we fix our thoughts on these positive qualities, we will continue to experience the peaceful presence of God as we praise Him in our lives. 

Theme passage:
“My beloved ones, don’t ever limit your joy or fail to rejoice in the wonderful experience of knowing our Lord Jesus!” (Philippians 3:1 TPT).