Challenge Accepted
RELEASE — empowered to rise
Terry R. Baughman
“So you cannot become my disciple without giving up everything you own.” (Luke 14:33 NLT).
People do some dumb things! Social media has created a phenomenon where students are often challenged to do some irrational, dangerous, and even fatal things just for the fun of it. I remember a few years ago seeing the “ice water challenge.” A lot of videos popped up of normally rational people getting doused with ice water over their heads just because someone challenged them to do it. Other challenges are more serious as kids attempt daring jumps, diving into shallow waters, or performing tricks on skateboards or bicycles. Some have ended in serious injuries or even death. 
The challenge we are proposing are not dangerous, but beneficial, even positively empowering to believers in Christ. We are faced with a New Year and a fresh opportunity to go forward with great ambition to be better and do more for God in the coming months. Our challenge is to reach higher in a spiritual dimension, dig deeper in biblical studies, and leap forward in our Christian maturity. The gauntlet has been thrown down. Who will take it up and accept the challenge of the Spirit during this early season of a new year?  
A desire to change course or direction is first of all a mental decision. We don’t accidentally stumble into disciplines. We don’t wake up one day and automatically run a marathon. No one ever said, “I started dieting before I knew what was happening. I started craving all the right foods and felt repulsed by anything that was fattening or unhealthy!” It is very unlikely that you just happened to show up a church without some thought or plan to attend. Likewise Bible reading, prayer, church attendance, giving, and sharing your testimony are not usually things that just happen. 
Typically, there is a conscious decision to make reading the Bible a part of your weekly schedule. We purpose to pray, and sometimes have to set an alarm or schedule a reminder to keep that commitment. Church attendance is planned and our days are arranged to insure that we have no disruptions to prevent our participation. When we budget our expenses our tithing and offerings are planned as a part of our financial responsibility. Often we must actively look for those opportunities to share our witness with coworkers, friends, or relatives. 
Most people only develop positive lifestyles and adopt healthy habits after making some mental preparation to initiate change in life. There is a pivotal moment where we decide to make changes. Motivations vary, but for spiritual pursuits perhaps it was a message that was preached, a book or podcast, or maybe an inspirational post that was observed on social media. Whatever the motivation, there was a moment when the decision was made to initiate a new action. 
We are mentally prepared to make the desired changes as we make plans to act on our decisions. If we are to truly be committed to the cause of Jesus Christ, we must make the decision to forsake all to follow Him. We learn of His desire for us through the reading of His Word, praying for His guidance, and through the encouragement of other believers as we gather together for worship and to hear God’s messenger deliver the application of the Word of God from Scripture. 
Accept the challenge today! In this beginning of a New Year, or a renewed commitment, let us arise to the challenge of Christian commitment. We are assured of God’s help as His Spirit was given to empower us for service. 
Theme passage:
“Those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint” (Isaiah 40:31 NLT).

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Celebrating God 
Thanks Living
Terry R. Baughman
“Give to the Lord, O families of the peoples, Give to the Lord glory and strength. Give to the Lord the glory due His name; Bring an offering, and come into His courts. Oh, worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness!” (Psalm 96:7–9).

Thanksgiving is a “God celebration!” It is an occasion to glorify the name of the Lord for everything that He is and all that He has provided. The passage from the Psalm above is just a portion of the song of praise exalting the one God of Heaven who created everything and brought us salvation. He has performed many wonderful works among us. Every praise we offer to God is deserved and appropriate; it is “the glory due His name!” So whether we gather with family and friends or just spend the time alone, during this season let us celebrate God!

Often Thanksgiving is more about us. We ask for our favorite dishes or forbidden desserts. We eat too many calories and find ourselves on the couch in a food coma after an excessive meal. Many have a day free of work, or the entire weekend off, and make plans to celebrate with recreation, road trips, or go shopping to take advantage of Black Friday specials. For others it is football games, or other sports activities for entertainment. Among the myriad events and activities surrounding the annual celebration we often make it more about our desires: gluttony, self-gratification, and entertainment. We are all guilty of at least some of these things. 

During the holiday this year let us take some time to reevaluate how we celebrate. Let us make Thanksgiving a celebration of our great God who supplies such bounty and has blessed us with peace and prosperity that we do not deserve. When we put God first and bring glory to His name, He graciously responds with more blessing and allows us to participate in His celebration. 

In ancient Israel the feast days were celebrations around the tabernacle and occasions of great joy as the people gathered to honor God. The people brought appropriate offerings and the priest offered sacrifices. They offered the first fruits of grain and baked special loaves to offer to God in worship. Depending on the particular purpose of the sacrifice there were portions given to sustain the priesthood and provide their living. In some occasions there was a celebration and the bounty that was offered to God was in turn shared with the worshippers that had come to honor God. They were indeed feast days!”

The principle extends to us today. While we are not required to bring the lamb or calf for sacrifice, we are encouraged to offer the sacrifice of praise! The psalmist wrote, “Therefore I will offer sacrifices of joy in His tabernacle; I will sing, yes, I will sing praises to the Lord” (Psalm 27:6), and, “I will freely sacrifice to You; I will praise Your name, O Lord, for it is good” (Psalm 54:6). In the New Testament the writer of Hebrews continues this theme of thanksgiving to God and the sacrifice of praise, “Therefore by Him let us continually offer the sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to His name. But do not forget to do good and to share, for with such sacrifices God is well pleased” (Hebrews 13:15–16).

As we celebrate God, we can celebrate with one another and we can share with others in need. This brings the favor of God. He is “well pleased.” 

Theme passage:
Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, And into His courts with praise. Be thankful to Him, and bless His name” (Psalm 100:4 NKJ).

The Lord’s Portion 
Thanks Living
Terry R. Baughman
“Bring all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be food in My house, and try Me now in this,” Says the Lord of hosts, “If I will not open for you the windows of heaven and pour out for you such blessing that there will not be room enough to receive it” (Malachi 3:10).

From the early days of biblical history the practice of offering God the firstfruits of the harvest was observed. Under the Law, giving of the firstfruits was established. The priests and Levites were the recipients of the gifts that the people brought as an offering to the Lord. This was God’s provision to sustain those who dedicated themselves to His service. “All the best of the oil, all the best of the new wine and the grain, their firstfruits which they offer to the Lord, I have given them to you. Whatever first ripe fruit is in their land, which they bring to the Lord, shall be yours” (Numbers 18:12–13). 

The giving of the tithe (ten percent) was observed even before the Law was given to Moses. Abraham gave a tenth of the spoils of battle to Melchizedek, the priest of the Most High God. The writer of Hebrews recorded, “Melchizedek, king of Salem, priest of the Most High God, who met Abraham returning from the slaughter of the kings and blessed him, to whom also Abraham gave a tenth part of all, …” (Hebrews 7:1–2). God blessed Abraham for his giving and the principle of tithing was established. 

The benefits are reciprocal. First the abundance of harvest provides for our needs and we offer gifts of thanksgiving to God, who in turn pours out more blessings on our lives. Blessings, both natural, financial and spiritual are returned to those who open up their hearts in giving. Tithing is a steadfast principle of Scripture, predating the Law and continuing to be observed after Christ came to the world. 
The prophet Malachi attached conditions and blessings to the obedience of the tithing principle. It may be the only provision of Scripture where the prophet was instructed to “try the Lord and see” the abundance of blessings that will be returned to the giver. (See the text above.) More than a return of provision, there was also a promise of protection established. The Lord said, “I will rebuke the devourer for your sakes, so that he will not destroy the fruit of your ground, nor shall the vine fail to bear fruit for you in the field” (Malachi 3:11). 

We are reminded of the Lord’s promise to Joshua based on the condition of his faithfulness to the Word of the Lord, “Only be strong and very courageous, that you may observe to do according to all the law which Moses My servant commanded you; do not turn from it to the right hand or to the left, that you may prosper wherever you go” (Joshua 1:7). Obedience to the Word of the Lord always results in the blessings of the Lord. 

The practice of tithing and giving is a consistent reminder of God’s provision. Weekly, monthly, our according to our increase we are reminded that everything we possess is a blessing from the Lord. We honor the Lord with His portion and we find ourselves being blessed again and again. Thanks living is thanksgiving!
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Theme passage:
Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, And into His courts with praise. Be thankful to Him, and bless His name” (Psalm 100:4 NKJ).

Acknowledge Ownership 
Thanks Living
Terry R. Baughman
“The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it; for he founded it on the seas and established it on the waters.” (Psalm 24:1 NIV).
The horn of plenty is a common illustration of Thanksgiving. Centerpieces and other seasonal decorations may include a horn shaped basket with an abundance of produce spilling from the opening. This cornucopia has history in Greek mythology as a symbol of a goat’s horn that was purported to have sustained Zeus in his infancy. Rather than fanciful myths of ancient history, to us, it is simply a basket of blessing, a container of an overflow of harvest after the ingathering of produce. 
Recognizing that all that grows and all that is in the earth is provided at the hand of One Almighty God, then we have cause to rejoice in His blessing and express thanksgiving for His provision. David said, “The earth is the Lord's, and the fulness thereof” (Psalm 24:1 KJV). Everything we have been given belongs to the Lord as well as we ourselves belong to Him. An important aspect of this time of the year that brings reflection is an opportunity to express our thanks to God for all He has provided. 
However, it should not just be in November that we find occasion to be thankful. When we come to the realization that God is the source of all blessings we must live with an attitude of thanksgiving all year long. As much as we might express thanks to a kind gesture, such as someone opening a door for us, or a small gift or a thoughtful favor, we should also be quick to offer thanksgiving to God for every day we live and every blessing we receive. 
In another Psalm God is quoted as expressing His ownership. He said, “For every beast of the forest is Mine, And the cattle on a thousand hills. I know all the birds of the mountains, And the wild beasts of the field are Mine” (Psalm 50:10–11). An old time preacher once said, “God owns the cattle on a thousand hills … and all the taters under the hills!” It is really true. The potatoes and every other vegetable, legumes, fruit, nuts or meat belong to Him, but He has freely shared them with the inhabitants of earth. 
Back to the time of Adam, humans have been vested with the responsibility and the privilege of being stewards of all creation. Our stewardship includes the husbandry of produce and the cultivation of a multitude of plants. The reward is that we eat of the harvest and enjoy feasts from the result of our labors. Having known difficult times with insufficient food, the early settlers who came to America learned to survive from the indigenous people who shared from their supplies. After another summer and the resulting harvest the first Thanksgiving was initiated as both settlers and natives ate together and all gave thanks for an abundant harvest. 
Inherent in the celebration of Thanksgiving is the aspect of sharing. It is a wonderful time to have family get-togethers. Often others who may not have family or close friends are invited to share in these special meals and expression of appreciation for our blessings. 
This year and through the years, let us be more aware that all we have received is a gift from God and it all belongs to Him. Whatever we have received was a blessing of Divine provision and it is appropriate to acknowledge His ownership and His gifts to us. Knowing that it all belongs to God helps us resist the temptation to cling to things as those we are the true owners of these material things. What we have worked for, saved for, purchased and brought home feels like something that we own. In the light of the Word of God we should realize that nothing really belongs to us; we are just stewards of what God has allowed us to call our own. 
“The fulness of the earth” is literally “everything in it” and thus several newer translation render the verse that way. Everything belongs to God. Thankfully, He is such a God that only enjoys the things that He shares with us and He is pleased when we receive them with thanksgiving and share them with His same attitude. Acknowledge His ownership and give thanks for His blessings!
Theme passage:
Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, And into His courts with praise. Be thankful to Him, and bless His name” (Psalm 100:4 NKJ).

Be Thankful 
Thanks Living
Terry R. Baughman
“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful” (Colossians 3:15).
Thankfulness is a choice. We can choose to be thankful or we can give in to complaints. We can practice gratefulness or join in with the complainers. We can make our lives into a practice of helpful and healthy choices or allow bitterness or personal disappointment to alienate our lives and negatively affect everyone around us. The Psalmist recognized that there is a daily resolve involved in our choices and he encouraged us to be thankful to God for His wonderful works. 
It is apparent from the text that we can choose to be thankful! It is a state of being that is readily available any of us. Rather than giving in to adversarial attitudes that are so prevalent in the culture, we can be set apart through our steadfast commitment to thankful living. The fruit of our choices bring presence of His peace. 
In our text Paul said, “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts.” So, it must be within our ability to allow peace to prevail and within our strength to submit to the authority of Christ in our relationships. He explained that this happens because we are members of one body AND “we were called to peace.” The conclusion of the verse simply states, “And be thankful.”
It is our natural human response to oppose those who rule over us, resulting in our being filled with turmoil, while grumbling or complaining because of our lack as we begin to covet the blessings of others. The simple solution to all of these attitudes is to be thankful! 
When we are thankful we will find ourselves at peace, unified with other members of the body of Christ. We will be grateful for our blessings and have the ability to rejoice with those who have more than we have and be willing to share with those who have less.  
Unity of the body of Christ is a calling of the Spirit and thankfulness is the catalyst to promote that cohesiveness. As we respond to the leading of God and pursue righteousness we will find that we become more loving, united, and peaceful. 
During a time of crisis and in the face of political divisiveness, God is calling us together. Through all of our unique diversity, our cultural preferences, and our varied ethnic influences there is a beautiful peace that is promised to those who will be thankful. 
The directive to be thankful is found in both Testaments. In the Psalms we are given specific instruction on how we should come before the presence of the Lord. The 100th Psalm is “A Psalm of Thanksgiving.” In this song we are instructed, “Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, And into His courts with praise. Be thankful to Him, and bless His name” (Psalm 100:4). Come through His gates with an attitude of thanksgiving and continue into His dwelling with praise. 
Our services are intentionally designed to begin with praise, worship songs, and expressions of thanksgiving toward God. It is appropriate to approach God with respect and honor, but we also must come before Him knowing that He is indeed worthy of honor, glory, and adoration. Whether in public service or private prayer, it is always right to praise Him and express our thankfulness for His provision. 
Finally, we are instructed to “Be thankful to Him, and bless His name.” This is the Old Testament admonition to be thankful, not just as a positive attitude, but gratefulness directed toward God. We are to bless His name! It is overwhelming to think that we may bring glory and honor to the name of our Lord. This is why we sing songs that exalt the name of Jesus. This is a pleasing praise to our God. 
Theme passage:
Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, And into His courts with praise. Be thankful to Him, and bless His name” (Psalm 100:4 NKJ).

God Appointed Miracles 
Expect Miracles
Terry R. Baughman
“And God has appointed these in the church: first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, administrations, varieties of tongues” (1 Corinthians 12:28).
While we may be quick to accept teachers in the church, even apostles and prophets, we may not recognize that miracles are also part of God’s gifts to the church. Actually, in the consecutive order Paul places miracles fourth after apostles, prophets, and teachers. Whether the placement is intentional or not it is noteworthy that miracles are appointed as gifts of God’s provision. Additionally, God appointed healings, helps, administration, and tongues. It seems that God is concerned with the practical as well as the spiritual, with the organization as much as the leadership, and with gifts of the diversity of tongues and healing, added to the working of miracles. 
We readily acknowledge the place of leaders and ministers in the church, but we have not been as quick to expect spiritual gifts and miraculous signs that we cannot explain. The Kingdom of God is a spiritual entity; it is a supernatural force. Therefore, it follows that the gifts God has placed in the church are also spiritual. Though we think of the practical as separate and apart from the gifts of the Spirit, all things contribute to the spiritual leadership and growth of God’s Kingdom. 
When the Pharisees asked Jesus when or where the kingdom of God would appear, He answered that, “The kingdom of God does not come with observation” (Luke 17:20). He further explained that the Kingdom of God is internal. It was not going to be a political force or a geographical authority. The disciples of Jesus asked a similar question after the resurrection, “Lord, will You at this time restore the kingdom to Israel?” (Acts 1:6). He redirected their focus on the intent of the Kingdom, the fulfillment of the commission that He had given them, “You shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth” (Acts 1:8). 
The disciples embraced the purpose of Christ and the pursuit of His mission. Signs and wonders, miracles, were seen in their ministry as they declared the resurrection of Jesus. The writer of Hebrews said, “God added his witness to theirs. He validated their ministry with signs, astonishing wonders, all kinds of powerful miracles, and by the gifts of the Holy Spirit, which he distributed as he desired” (Hebrews 2:4 The Passion Translation).
The gifts are God’s appointment. He distributes them as He desires! It is His plan to build up His Kingdom in the earth and it is realized through His church. We are the body and it is God’s purpose to perform miracles in us and through us. When we pray we can pray with the knowledge that God is working right here, right now. We never know when the Sovereign God might just choose to do a miraculous event in our midst. 
We are not the ones to select the recipient or order the healing, yet we can be assured that God is with us and working in our ministries. When we pray for the sick, expect them to be healed. When we lead a person to repentance, expect the Holy Spirit to fill them and see them speak with tongues. When we pray for depression or addictions, know God is present to deliver and transform. Miracles are happening in our midst and we know that anything is possible with God. 
God did not intend for miracles to be marginalized or minimized. Let us proclaim the power of God and the potential for the miraculous to be evident in any worship gathering or whenever the need is present. Know that God is working and expect the unusual and phenomenal performance of God’s miracles. God has placed spiritual gifts in the church and He has appointed … miracles!
Theme passage:
“They stayed there a long time, speaking boldly in the Lord, who was bearing witness to the word of His grace, granting signs and wonders to be done by their hands” (Acts 14:3 NKJV).

Signs Following 
Expect Miracles
Terry R. Baughman
“And these signs will follow those who believe: In My name they will cast out demons; they will speak with new tongues; they will take up serpents; and if they drink anything deadly, it will by no means hurt them; they will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover” (Mark 16:17–18).

According to the New Testament record, signs and wonders were a frequent occurrence in the ministry of the early church. Many miracles were seen at the hands of the apostles and other believers as they went everywhere declaring the resurrection of Jesus Christ. It is no wonder, for Jesus Himself had a miraculous ministry and He gave the promise of signs, miracles, and other phenomena to give evidence for all those who believed in Him and obeyed the commission. 

Immediately after commanding His disciples, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature,” He continued with the above commitment, “These signs will follow those who believe” (Mark 16:15, 17). The indication was that these phenomenal wonders would give attestation to the reality of the message and the power of God to change lives. The miracles of Jesus served the same purpose. Multitudes were drawn to Him because of the miracles, but the Gospel was preached and lives were changed by His message. Jesus came to declare the truth; our purpose is the same. 

Throughout the Book of Acts we see the miracles continue as believers spoke with authority and prayed for transformation. Sick people were healed. Blind eyes were opened and even the dead were restored to life. Again the crowds gathered to hear more about this message of power. The attraction of miracles was never intended to be the ultimate conclusion, but the impetus to bring people into a relationship where the purpose of the resurrection might be revealed in a personal New Birth experience. 

When the seeker came to Jesus to enquire about His ministry, He was quick to point to the way of salvation. Nicodemus came at night to acknowledge His gift, compliment His teaching, and engage in conversation. Jesus was more interested in his conversion. He said, “Unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.… You must be born again” (John 3:3, 7). 

While we maintain the importance of the message and the essentiality of declaring the Gospel, we must also embrace the testimony of the supernatural. The message we proclaim is a spiritual message. It is more than facts of history and lectures of philosophy. This message evokes faith in the hearts of hearers and a conversion in their spirit, “Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God” (Romans 10:17). Paul also said, “With the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation” (Romans 10:10).

When signs are seen and miracles are witnessed faith leaps to anticipate the power of God to perform personal transformation as well. If God can heal our sick bodies, surely He can restore our broken spirits. If Jesus opens blinded eyes, we know He can bring revelation and light in our dark deception. Since God has restored the dead to life, we know He can raise us in glorious resurrection power at the last day. 

We may have given intellectual assent to miraculous events, but can we claim them now and believe that signs and wonders are still happening? Miracles are in the making and healing is touching those for whom we have prayed. This is the hour when miraculous ministry is being restored to the church. Believers only need to confess the power of God, pray for His divine intervention, and speak words of faith.

Through His name and His authority demons will depart. People will receive the Holy Spirit and spontaneously speak with other tongues. Healing of the sick will become a common occurrence as a result of prayer and danger and disease will be made harmless to believers. Signs will follow those who believe!
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Theme passage:
“They stayed there a long time, speaking boldly in the Lord, who was bearing witness to the word of His grace, granting signs and wonders to be done by their hands” (Acts 14:3 NKJV).

Look at Us! 
Expect Miracles
Terry R. Baughman
“Peter said, “Look at us.” So he gave them his attention, expecting to receive something from them. Then Peter said, “Silver and gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk” (Acts 3:4–6 NKJV). 

Mid-afternoon around the Temple was a busy time of day in Jerusalem. It was the hour of prayer. Handicapped individuals gathered along the pathway leading to the Temple. It was a lucrative spot to ask for charity. Those who came for prayers or to worship were usually more inclined to contribute to their welfare. The lame man grew up along this route, for as soon as he was old enough his mother brought him here to spend the days and learn to make his way in the world. Even after all these years and seeing many people and various responses to his requests, he was totally unprepared for what happened when two men approached. 

His script was always the same, “Alms? Alms?” as he reached toward the two intent upon entering the Temple. Frequently, people would just ignore his request and pretend not to hear. Today was different. The two men turn toward him making eye contact and one said, “Look at us!”  The burly man spoke for both of them, “We don't have what you're asking for, but what we have we will give to you!” They had nothing in their hands to offer, but there was a strange authority in his voice. The next statement was more like a command, “In the name of Jesus the Messiah of Nazareth, rise up and walk!” 

What can only be described as a hot fire shot through his veins and down through his useless legs. Muscle strength instantly grew and tendons came alive as his bones straighten and strengthened. He couldn’t help himself. He had to jump to his feet and began leaping and shouting in his excitement. Completely and instantly, he was healed from his lifelong limitation. 

Due to the prohibition of the lame from entering the Temple he now had no reason to wait on the outside. He dashed into the place of worship and continued to jump and rejoice. The miracle cannot be stilled or silenced; the declaration of worship is a natural response to a divine operation. 

Though Peter and John had commanded the attention of the lame man, and the  resulting miracle brought the crowd of amazed observers out to see who had caused such an incredible miracle, Peter was quick to give the glory to God for the amazing healing. He gave honor to the resurrected Christ! Peter declared that the miracle came by Jesus, “And His name, through faith in His name, has made this man strong, whom you see and know” (Acts 3:16). 

We have the answer for the problems of the world. There is nothing too hard for God and He is willing and able to perform miracles of healings, signs of changed lives, and wonders of provision and spiritual renewals. We, like Peter and John, can say to those in need, “Look at us!” This is not to focus expectation on what we can do, but to bring attention to the God we serve and His incredible power to perform the miraculous. 

When we call out to the desperate, “Look at us,” we don’t have the power to change their lives, but we do know the source of transformation. He lives within us and works through us to perform His will. 
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What the world looks for is not what we have to give, but what we have is the thing they so desperately need. It is the power of the Holy Spirit to bring healing and wholeness to every soul. When they look at us, it isn’t so that we can pay their bills, save their marriage and give them a better job, but we do know a resource of strength that will bring all these things to pass. His condition is, “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you” (Matthew 6:33).   
For the needy today, “Look at us!” We don’t have what you want, … but we do have what you need!

Theme passage:
“They stayed there a long time, speaking boldly in the Lord, who was bearing witness to the word of His grace, granting signs and wonders to be done by their hands” (Acts 14:3 NKJV).

Signs and Wonders 
Expect Miracles
Terry R. Baughman
“And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers. Then fear came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were done through the apostles. Now all who believed were together, and had all things in common” (Acts 2:42-44 NKJV). 
Miracles were as common as fellowship over dinner in the early church. “Many wonders and signs” were seen at the hands of the apostles. As we return to the pattern of the early church of the Book of Acts we will begin to see more of the miraculous in the church.
In these few verses following Peter’s message on the Day of Pentecost there are several keys to the success of the early assembly and good instruction for the church of the latter days: 

1. They remained faithful to the teaching they received from the apostles, who were eyewitnesses (and ear-witnesses) of the teaching of Jesus. 
2. They stayed connected through times of fellowship and shared meals. 
3. They continued to pray, even after the week they spent together in the upper room prayer meeting. 
4. The miraculous signs and wonders resulted in fear among those who were on the outside. 
5. The believers experienced great unity of purpose and they willingly shared their possessions with others. 

One of the most viable evidences of God-given authority was the working of miracles. That was a convincing proof to many that Jesus was the Messiah. However, the apostles continued the practice of praying, believing, and as a result, seeing wonderful signs and wonders that were a testament of God’s power working through them. They taught the doctrine they had received and remained faithful to the word of Jesus. 
The power of miracles is not an indication that we should discontinue our teaching of salvation, rather all the more, we must be engaged in countering the culture and preaching the steadfast truth of God’s Word. The unexplained miracle, the sensational sign, or the unexpected outcome all produce the awe of respect and perhaps, the intimation of our own lack of power compared to the limitless glory of God that can work in us continually. 
Early followers prayed for boldness to proclaim the truth of God’s word. When they prayed, the effect could be felt by all and immediately those who had not received the Holy Spirit were filled. (See Acts 4:29-31.) Their prayers for boldness were also granted and they eagerly proclaimed the word of God.
When they prayed, “the place was shaken!” There was obviously a visible, physical response to prayer and the demonstration of the miraculous presence and power of God. May the church today come together in unity to follow the example of the early believers in teaching, prayer, fellowship, and the signs and wonders that God will freely provide. Let’s get ready and expect miracles!
Theme passage:
“They stayed there a long time, speaking boldly in the Lord, who was bearing witness to the word of His grace, granting signs and wonders to be done by their hands” (Acts 14:3 NKJV).

Established on Better Promises 
Living by Faith
Terry R. Baughman
“But now He has obtained a more excellent ministry, inasmuch as He is also Mediator of a better covenant, which was established on better promises” (Hebrews 8:6 NKJV). 

Who could be more trustworthy than Jesus Christ when He makes a promise? What contract or covenant could have more validation than that which was written in blood and affirmed by the Word of God?

In a politically divisive climate, especially during an election of a President, the environment becomes toxic as all sides are attempting to activate voters and swing the undecided in their favor. Many resort to fabricated stories, unfair practices, and smear campaigns or outright lies to convince the voters that they are the better candidate. The result of such practices is increased cynicism and it sometimes causes voters to become more divided or more apathetic toward the whole process. Many concluded that all politicians are crooked, corrupt, and liars. Unfortunately, that may not be far from the truth! 

When the preacher or teacher begins to talk about a more reliable witness, someone who keeps their promises, and something better than what we have previously observed, it is a difficult sale. We want to believe it, but we have been deceived for so long we find ourselves among the skeptics that suspect another con and a shaded story. 

Jesus came as the mediator of a better covenant and better promises! When we hear the title mediator we may think of a negotiator, someone who accepts a compromised position in order to close the deal or bring two sides together. Jesus was different. He was not negotiating with Satan or bargaining with evil for the souls of humanity, rather He was bridging the gap between God and man. Paul wrote, “There is one God and one Mediator between God and men, the Man Christ Jesus, who gave Himself a ransom for all” (1 Timothy 2:5–6). Jesus was God in flesh, “God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself” (2 Corinthians 5:19). 

The writer of Hebrews declared that Jesus, “obtained a more excellent ministry” (Hebrews 8:6). He was superior to the patriarchs and prophets. He came with the divine mandate to establish a better covenant. How could he do that? He was constructing the New Covenant upon the foundation of better promises. Paul said, “God will always be proven faithful and true to his word, while people are proven to be liars” (Romans 3:4 TPT). In another letter he said, “For all the promises of God in Him are Yes, and in Him Amen, to the glory of God through us” (2 Corinthians 1:20 NKJ).

We have confidence in God’s New Covenant because we know His promises are true. God has never made a vow that He cannot fulfill. He has never made a promise He did not intend to keep. When Jesus took the cup and drank the fruit of the vine with His disciples He gave special significance to the act. He said, “This cup is the new covenant in My blood, which is shed for you” (Luke 22:20). It was not possible for them to understand the power of that statement until a few hours later when He was hanging on a cross, atoning for our sins through the sacrifice of His blood. 

This message has authority and power because it is established on better promises!
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Theme passage:
“All these people were still living by faith when they died. They did not receive the things promised; they only saw them and welcomed them from a distance, admitting that they were foreigners and strangers on earth” (Hebrews 11:13).