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Good Friday, March 29, 2024 Judged By Two Entities Scriptures: Mark 14:53 (NIV Study Bible) – “They took Jesus to the high priest, and all the chief priests, elders and teachers of the law came together.” Mark 15:1 (NIV Study Bible) – “Very early in the morning, the chief priests, with the elders, the teachers of the law and the whole Sanhedrin, reached a decision. They bound Jesus, led him away and handed him over to Pilate.” Message: As I read the story of Jesus’ arrest and ultimate surrender over to Pilate, I was struck that like Jesus we are judged by two entities. Firstly, Jesus was judged by the leaders of the Jewish Community. Secondly, Jesus was judged by Rome. Neither of these entities held power over Jesus. Like Jesus we are judged by two entities. Firstly, we are judged by the world. This world expects us to conform to its standards which requires us to dress a certain way, talk a certain way, and live a certain way. When we conform, they give their approval. When we don’t conform, they are quick to condemn. Secondly, we are judged by God. He gave us Jesus to die for our sins and provide us a path to salvation. He also gives us the freedom to decide which path we will choose. The question is, will we choose the path and acceptance of the world, or will we seek the path of salvation offered through the life and resurrection of our Lord Jesus. We must choose wisely. For the path that the world takes is every changing, and acceptance is fleeting at best. The path of our Lord Jesus is consistent and never changing. Ultimately God will judge us, and His verdict is eternal. So, will you choose to stand with God and be judged by the world, or stand with the world and be judged by God? Prayer: Our gracious Heavenly Father, I ask You guide my steps along the path set forth for us by our Lord Jesus. Help me to keep my eyes on You, God, and reject the ways of the world. Let me strive to live a life that glorifies You, God. Amen. Jack Frye |
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