Bob Miller Press

Heaven is not a paycheck for being good

Bob Miller — Sun, 22 Jan 2012 04:48:38 +0000

I was thinking this morning. Heaven can not be a paycheck for good deeds, because God is not indebted to anyone. Rather, salvation is through His mercy and grace through Jesus Christ, which is given freely and fully. Good deeds are a “thank offering” for the mercy and grace God has already showered upon us who are Christ followers. We are the ones indebted to Him. Romans 8:1-2 – “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you free from the law of sin and death.” We have been set free! And God get’s the glory for it…it’s not something He owes us. “…in view of God’s mercy..Offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God..” – Romans 12:1-2

All Christians Are Priests

Bob Miller — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 15:39:58 +0000

I was listening to Hebrews in my car on the way home from work today, and had a thought. The book of Revelation speaks of our inheritance as kings and priests of God, and of Christ. http://goo.gl/ZCY3a But do we really understand the magnitude of importance in being priests according to the new covenant. Our priest hood is an eternal one, forged by the precious blood of our High Priest; the Lord Jesus Christ. Moreover, His high priesthood is in the order of Melchizedek (Psalm 110:4), and not in accordance with the old covenant line of levitical priests. Therefore, what does it mean for us to live in accordance to our type of priestly calling? Worshiping, serving, and interceding for each other in spirit and in truth; walking as Christ walked. We are not ambassadors of the old covenant law, but of life, love, hope, peace, joy, holiness, and freedom. Our holiness and righteousness comes from heaven, where our High Priest intercedes for us, “we have been made holy through the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.” – Hebrews 10:10; also there’s Philippians 3:9. So since we “have been” made pure, once and for all; filthy living is not the way for the saints and priests of God to behave. We need to shed our sinful desires and put off the dirty life-styles that hinder our walk and whiteness. But remember, self-control is a fruit of the Spirit, and it’s not the only fruit we are to be producing. There are eight other attributes that need to be interlace to produce true godly living; love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, and gentleness. Galatians 5:22-23. We are not old covenant policemen. Rather, we are new covenant testifiers filled with, and empowered by, the Holy Spirit of God. Therefore, let us be diligent in sharing the love of Christ, being Christ-like in our fallen and needy world, interceding on behalf of others, keeping the unity of the Spirit in love and good deeds to every person. Let us live holy, priestly lives in honoring our Great High Priest. All for God’s glory!

Free BIBLES for download, on MP3 “Audio versions!”

Bob Miller — Tue, 30 Aug 2011 21:59:08 +0000

Free Audio Bibles

For anyone interested in having a copy. This has been an awesome find. I listen in my car and wherever I go. In this day and age, we are so blessed to have access to the Bible through a wide range of medium. Now, here is your opportunity to have your very own copy of the Bible in MP3 format.

Click here: NIV http://bit.ly/nW21BB Scroll down the page about halfway, right-click on the book you want to download, and then choose “Save Link As”. You can play the link right there, save it to your computer, transfer it to a smart phone, or play it on any MP3 player. This is the one I listen to. While the link is to the New Testament, you can search the site for the whole Bible and a non-dramatic version. We are supposed to be “Doers of the Word, not just Listeners”, but if we don’t listen, how do we know what to do? I challenge you to listen. You’ll be surprised how easy it is to understand, and fall in love with the Bible!!!

NIV http://bit.ly/qSwVZr

The World English Bible (Updated version of the NSV) http://bit.ly/oMqxs7

KJV http://bit.ly/nz4KgM
King James MP3 http://bit.ly/o1lsKu

Bible Gateway
Hear the Bible in 6 English versions or Farsi, Spanish, Slovak or Plautdietsch http://bit.ly/olsV2c

World English & Spanish Audio Bible
Listen Online http://bit.ly/oans6k

Jesus Christ – The Lamb of God, and The Resurrection of the Dead

Bob Miller — Sun, 10 Jul 2011 20:35:26 +0000

With the celebration of Easter “the Resurrection of Christ” behind us, I am reminded of the significance the Cross, and the Empty Tomb, have on the world daily. For those of us who believe in God, and believe Him to be holy, righteous, and just; what other way to approach God’s throne but with perfectly clean hands.

Considering our Human condition: Can a perfect God be soiled with our presence? Can a righteous Judge forgive sinners and remain righteous? Wouldn’t a perfect judge pronounce the perfect penalty? If a perfectly just judge pardons sinners, wouldn’t he cease to be just or fair? And when weighed against God’s perfection, what would the correct judgment be for only one sin? How many sins does each of us carry? Speaking for myself, my sins are too numerous to even consider counting.

I believe this is a dilemma that those of us who believe in God have been dealing with throughout time. Many religions are filled with ways of repaying for failures. Various cultures have built sacrificial altars to appease an angry god because of their misdeeds. Is God just an angry being? Or is God Holy? Holiness itself demands communion and fellowship with only other holy beings. So how do we become holy enough to approach God?

Think of it, religions cannot make a person holy enough. They are a futile attempt of sinners to purge themselves of their own sin. Can a leopard remove its spots? Can a dirty pond make itself clean? Can a person with filthy hands cleanse him or herself with those grimy hands? Impossible! This is where the Cross comes in.

The Cross is where our righteous judge took the world’s sins upon Himself. Since there is no one holier than God, God incarnate (in the flesh), reconciles us to Himself, through His son Jesus Christ. The perfect sacrifice; as John the Baptist proclaimed, “Behold the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world” – The Gospel of John 1:29. At the Cross, God made us right with him because we were unable to make ourselves right.

All the greatest deeds in the world couldn’t make us perfect within our guiltiness. If a person kills a father of four, but found the cure for cancer, wouldn’t they still be judged for that murder? Think about it, if we were perfect and holy we’d be doing all those great deeds anyway, because that’s what perfect people do; and, they would do them without a debt of sin on their shoulders. That’s where Jesus came in. He lived the sinless life that none of us could, and at the cross He took our sins on Himself and transferred His righteousness to us. The Apostle Paul said, “God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.” – 2 Corinthians 5:21

What this comes down to is; what do we do with the cross? For us personally? What does it mean to you? Or me? What do we do with the most important gift God could give us through His Son (total forgiveness)? Christ’s cross is where God the Father shows us how much He loves us. Let’s list some of the things we receive through Christ: A personal relationship with God through Jesus which is a perfect connection with our heavenly Father. Holiness, Righteousness, Salvation, Full Acceptance; as a truth, we gain everything Jesus had with the Father because Jesus suffered for all we lacked.

What if we reject God’s gift? Why would we? Shall we say God’s provision for us is not on our terms? In fact, it’s not on our terms, it’s on God’s condition; He paid our way with the ultimate price. Therefore, it is through Faith in Christ we are to be saved by Grace – Ephesians 2:8-9. Without Faith it is impossible to please God. But on the other hand, if we do have faith in His Son, God’s provision for us, we have been made perfectly pleasing to the Father. Furthermore, we have a relationship with God that we could not achieve on our own.

So, how do we make this connection? In Romans 10:9-10 it says, “If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved.” Basically, it’s all a matter of prayerfully giving your heart to Jesus to fix, and doing it sincerely.

“Tell God, your Father in heaven, that you are sorry for your sins. Ask Him, if His Son’s saving grace could be applied to you; if His death on the cross, and His raising from the dead power, would clean you of all your sins. *Ask your Father in heaven to give you His Holy Spirit to guide and direct your life. Accept Jesus Christ as the Son of God, as God who came in the flesh to make you right with Him, and ask Jesus to be your Lord” This may seem like a big step, because it is; but it is the only way to make things right between you and God. (*Luke 11:13)

If you, just now, have asked Jesus to be your Lord and Savior, please leave me a comment. I would love to get a Bible and some good reading material in your hands to help you on your journey with Christ. However, all you really need is the Bible. Jesus said the Holy Spirit will be the one truly guiding the way (1 John 2:27; Ephesians 1:17-18 http://bit.ly/oqNorP). Pray, and ask Jesus to show you what the things you read in the Bible mean. He (God), who began a good work in you is faithful to complete what He started.

Here are a few more Bible verses to think on:

1 Thessalonians 5:23-24
“May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. The one who calls you is faithful, and he will do it.”

John 10:28-30
“I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of my Father’s hand. I and the Father are one.”

Hebrews 7:25
“Therefore he is able to save completely those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede for them.”

Romans 8:1-2 “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you free from the law of sin and death.”

Ravi Zacharias International Ministries (RZIM)

Bob Miller — Mon, 16 May 2011 18:25:06 +0000

I have found RZIM to be an excellent resource of Christian apologetics. Ravi is a Christian thinker, philosopher, and theologian who affirms the testimony of faith in Jesus Christ, and challenges all listeners to carefully think through what they believe. This ministry is a grand supply of knowledge for those who wish to delve deep into a relationship with Christ.

“The journey through life can be difficult, filled with disappointments and trials. For some, those hard times cause them to turn their backs on God. Even for those who remain faithful, tough times can cause us to feel as if God is distant. One way to close the gap is through prayer. That’s Ravi’s topic this week and next as he brings a message never before heard on Let My People Think that he’s titled “Growing Through Our Disciplines.” – RZIM

Growing Through Our Disciplines

(part 1 of 2): http://bit.ly/lC5VsD

Growing Through Our Disciplines
(part 2 of 2): http://bit.ly/k6HGRR

“God calls every believer to live a life of radical faith. But what does that mean? Ravi takes a look at the life of Moses to discover some important principles for radical living.” – RZIM

He Saw, He Left, He Conquered

(part 1 of 2): http://bit.ly/jsUGUV

He Saw, He Left, He Conquered

(part 2 of 2): http://bit.ly/iGDXeY

I hope you enjoy these suggestions

Morning Manna (morningmanna.com)

Bob Miller — Wed, 11 May 2011 14:10:55 +0000

I have found that listening to podcasts and CDs when in my car (45min. morning and evening commutes), can add so much light to my day. MORNING MANNA (http://www.morningmanna.com/) is a “chapter-a-day” podcast I found about three months ago. It has been a blessing to me. Bruce Turner does a great job walking the listener through the bible just by reading it. Except for a few personal thoughts, it’s a good way to welcome the day by listening to the word of God being read to you. Each episode is only 5 to 10 minutes long.

The Cross of Persecution

Bob Miller — Mon, 09 May 2011 02:04:16 +0000

Matthew Chapter 10, Matthew 19:19, Mark 8:34-38, 10:29-30, 13:12-13, 35-37, Acts 5:40-42, Philippians 1:29.

I encourage everyone to acquire a copy of the Bible in audio-book format. There are benefits to hearing the Bible read to you chapter-by-chapter, and in an ongoing contextual arrangement. I believe so much of what we glean from scripture can be taken out of context because we are gathering our understanding in bits and pieces; in many circumstances disjoining it from the true topic or idea. Think about it, cults have been started based on just a few good verses. Moreover, how many books or movies do we follow jumping around piece-by-piece? It would be impossible to understand the full message. So, the challenge to us (including myself), is to read “through” the books of the Bible and read often.

Loyalty and Dedication =Equals= Persecution

Jesus was very direct when it came to warning us of the repercussion we are to experience for following Him. Like a penalty or payment from the world, we will suffer for turning our backs on worldly ways. While there are those who will accept our testimony and life-style, the majority of people we meet will reject any extreme affection shown toward Christ. Our prayer is for them to be forgiven, because they do not truly understand what they are doing (Luke 23:34 & Ephesians 6:12).

What about those friends and family members that are gripped by the world’s power? As unpleasant as this question might appear, “Where is our loyalty centered?” In our parents or kids? In our spouses? In our friendships? Or in our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ? Our love for friends, family, and the world need to be filtered through our greater love for Christ. In the power given to us by the Holy Spirit, the fruits of the Spirit will feed most of our relationships (To the body of believers first, and then to a suffering world). Nevertheless, there will be many who will reject us no matter how much we love them in Christ; rejecting us even unto death. In as much as the wicked killed Christ, so the wicked continue to persecute Christ’s followers. The prophets of old will also testify of this world’s treachery.

Therefore, we will suffer in our relationships because a sword has divided our households, friendships, workplaces, and neighborhoods. There will be those who despise the one we represent. However, we should not fear, but rather do all we can to live at peace with those around us. That’s what we are called to do.

Remember – Persecution is meant to be one directional! We are not to return persecution-for-persecution; that’s God’s job. Our powerful Lord has our back and knows what we need! Let the mind of Christ be in us, in that He came to seek and save the lost. Therefore, let us pick up our cross and seek to bring the lost to Christ regardless of the repercussions.

Are You Really A Super Hero

Bob Miller — Fri, 11 Mar 2011 04:18:37 +0000

We had our church’s community group tonight and it was great. The kid’s portion of the study was focused on the power and strength we receive as follows of Jesus. The following are a series of questions that were asked. You can imagine the answers and excitement that filled the room

1) Super Heroes – What’s your favorite Super Hero?

2) What if Super Man didn’t know he had super strength?

3) How could Super Man get to know about his super strength?

4) Would someone have to tell him?

5) Could he exercise or use his mussels to find out how strong he really was?

6) What are other ways he could find out how much power he has?

7) What if he didn’t believe you?

8) Would he still act like a superhero?

9) How would he defeat the bad guys?

In a way, people that trust and follow Jesus are like Super Heroes.

We have God power.

1) What do you think it means to have God power?

2) How can we find out more about the power of God that lives in us?

Ways to learn about our strength:

a.) Reading the Bible.

b.) Through other people that have the same power.

c.) Exercise our power with faith and prayer.

d.) We can practice praying and keep our eye open for answered prayers.

e.) Trusting that our invisible God can take care of us.

f.) Trust that he is watching over us.

g.) Trusting and knowing that He loves us and lives in our hearts.

h.) Know that God will give us all the power we need in times of need.

i.) Know that God provides the power we need to love Him, and to love each other.

The Prostitute and a Blood Colored Rope

Bob Miller — Wed, 02 Mar 2011 20:43:12 +0000

Q1) Can A Prostitute Have Saving Faith And Retain Her Title?

Q2) Can A Lady Of The Night Be Trusted To Keep A Promise?

Q3) Can A Harlot Be Directed By God To Change The Fate Of Nations?

Q4) Most Personally, Can She Be Changed Into A Person Of Great Honor?

At times we feel cast-out in a reproachable way by our own people, but the disgrace placed on us can put us in a perfect position to be uses for some greater good. Rahab was a reproach to her people and lived on the outskirts of Jericho; “in the physical wall of the city”. It is interesting how that fortified wall which was built to protect the people, failed miserably at keeping its makers safe.

Q&A – Rahab

A1) Rahab’s name carries with it a title of reproach. I know of no one who would name their daughter after such a woman of ill reputation. Still, her name is specifically mentioned in the hall of great faith (Hebrews 11); her faith is considered as important to be named with the likes of Abraham and Moses. Furthermore, she was even made worthy enough to take part in the lineage of Christ our Savior (Matthew 1:5).

Today, I still hear people referring to Bartimaeus in scripture as; “Blind Bartimaeus” even though he was no longer blind. In like manner, Rahab the Prostitute was still so titled after helping the Israelitesites. I’m glad I don’t have to carry a haunting title about my life before turning to Christ. Names like Born-again Bob or Bob the Jesus freak pale in comparison to Bob the drug-addict, Bob the boozer, Bob the womanizer, or Bob the lascivious.

A2) When given the promise of safety, protection, great purpose, and peace, the hope of what awaited her gave Rahab the courage to do what was needed.

A3) Hearing about the wonders of God, and believing in her heart that the God of the Israelites had already given the land to them, Rahab yielded her whole being to this cause. This made her actions a key part in the Israelites conquest and Jericho’s demise.

A4) Because of Rahab’s actions which were motivated by her faith, after the walls of Jericho had fallen, her single house in the wall was the only thing left standing. Rahab went on to marry Salmon son of Nahshon and she gave birth to Boaz, placing her and her family in the lineage of Jesus (Matthew 1:5).

Rahab is mentioned in Joshua 2 & 6:22, 23; Matthew 1:5; Hebrews 11:31; James 2:25.

Four Very Informative Documentaries!

Bob Miller — Thu, 24 Feb 2011 04:27:22 +0000

Today’s tip is for my friends that like reading books and watching DVDs. There are four documentaries that I like in particular (all available on Netflix). They are:

1) “The Case for a Creator” by Lee Strobel. “A Journalist Investigates Scientific Evidence that Points Toward God.” http://goo.gl/Z4Sh6

2) “The Case for Christ” by Lee Strobel. “A Seasoned Journalist Chases Down the Biggest Story in History. Is there credible evidence that Jesus of Nazareth really is the Son of God? Retracing his own spiritual journey from atheism to faith, Lee Strobel, former legal editor of the Chicago Tribune, cross-examines a dozen experts with doctorates from schools like Cambridge, Princeton, and Brandeis who are recognized authorities in their own fields.” http://goo.gl/TIirJ

3) “Expelled: No Intelligence Allowed” by Ben Stein “Stein asserts that in recent years, anyone who dares to question the idea that adaptation is responsible for the development of Earth’s organisms is held to ridicule…” http://goo.gl/xFSQD

And for those who like to be extra informed on current events, there’s:

4) “Islam” A documentary on the Mohamed movement as commanded by the Koran – http://goo.gl/5OMgu

I found these pieces to be logically tactful and informative. A must have for critics on both sides of each issue. Every view digs deep into the main foundational structure of its topic. They’re definitely worth your while to review!!!