1 Kings 7-8

Pastor Marshall Ochs | July 28, 2024

In this message, Pastor Marshall teaches from 1 Kings 7-8. These chapters cover the construction and dedication of Solomon’s temple. The narrative includes details about the temple furniture, but also the purpose of the temple. It was a place of prayer and a home for The Name of Yahweh. These two aspects have important implications when we consider the temple through a New Testament lens. The temple is no longer a building, Christians are the temple. Therefore, we must consider what kind of temple we have become.

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1 Kings 6:38-7:12

This passage's contrast between God's Temple and Solomon's Palace profoundly reflects priorities and honor. The Temple, crafted over seven years, symbolized reverence and dedication to the Lord. Its purpose was clear: to honor God and serve as a sacred place of worship. In contrast, Solomon's Palace, a grand construction spanning thirteen years, seemed to reflect more on Solomon's earthly wealth and status than on glorifying God. This contrast prompts us to reflect on our own lives: Are we building a palace that showcases our achievements and desires with only a token acknowledgment of God? Or are we honoring God with a life dedicated to worship, prayer, and service to God? Let us consider where our true honor lies and whether our lives reflect God's presence and purpose within us.

Reflection: The construction reflected more about Solomon than about God. God was honored, but who was honored more? Which house are you building? A palace to yourself with a little God on the side or a place of worship and prayer? Is your life a place God is constructing in you?

1 Kings 7:13-22

In constructing the Temple, our attention turns to the master craftsman Hiram from Tyre, who played a pivotal role in its intricate design. Central to the temple structure were two massive pillars, Jachin and Boaz, which stood as symbolic reminders that God was the one who established and strengthened. These names carry profound meanings: Jachin signifies "He will establish," and Boaz means "In Him is strength." Adorning the Temple were carvings of palm trees, pomegranates, and lilies, evoking imagery from the Garden of Eden. These Edenic symbols highlight God's unwavering desire to restore what was lost and to rebuild the paradise that was once in perfect harmony with His divine presence. As we reflect on these elements, we are reminded of God's steadfast promise to establish and strengthen us, leading us toward restoring His intended paradise.

Reflection: When we consider God's promise to establish and strengthen us, how does this impact our perspective on challenges in our lives?

How does the imagery from the Garden of Eden used in Solomon's Temple resonate with your understanding of God's ongoing restoration work today?

1 Kings 7:23-51

The sacred furnishings were each rich with symbolism. The altar, central to worship, represented the sacrifices made to God, underscoring the cost of devotion. The laver, or Sea, symbolized purification. The lampstands illuminated the holy place, signifying that God is the true light in our lives, guiding and sustaining us. The Table of Showbread, adorned with twelve loaves, represented God's provision, affirming that He is our ultimate sustenance and the Bread of Life.

Reflection:  How does recognizing God as your ultimate provider shape your attitude toward the blessings and resources in your life? How does the imagery of the Altar of Incense, representing the prayers of the saints, influence your view of the significance and power of prayer in your relationship with God?

1 Kings 8:1-11

The Ark of the Covenant, the most sacred and central piece of furniture in Israel's history, was finally placed within Solomon's Temple, marking a profound moment in the nation's history. This sacred chest, symbolizing God's covenant with His people and abiding presence, was positioned in the innermost part of the Temple, the Holy of Holies. The Temple's dedication during the Feast of Tabernacles was a momentous occasion filled with celebration and reverence. As the Temple was consecrated, a cloud, representing God's glory, descended and filled the space, affirming His presence and faithfulness as described in Exodus 40:34-35. This visible manifestation of God's glory was a powerful reminder of His enduring commitment to His people. It calls us to reflect on the sacredness of God's presence in our lives and dedicate ourselves to honoring and seeking Him with the same reverence and joy.

Reflection: Recall when you felt a profound sense of God's glory and presence. How did that experience impact you and your worship? How does the visible manifestation of God's glory at the Temple's dedication challenge or inspire your commitment to seeking and reflecting God's presence? What moments in your life help you celebrate and recognize God's faithfulness?

1 Kings 8:16-20

Solomon reflects on the divine purpose of the Temple, highlighting that it was constructed to proclaim God's Name rather than to elevate Solomon's own legacy. This stands in stark contrast to the practices of surrounding pagan cultures, where temples were often built to appease or manipulate deities for personal gain. Solomon's dedication of the Temple underscores the centrality of God's Name and glory, affirming that the Temple's true purpose was to honor and make known the greatness of God alone. As we reflect on this passage, it reminds us that our own lives and endeavors should be oriented towards proclaiming God's name and reflecting His glory rather than seeking personal accolades or recognition.

1 Kings 8:61-63

Solomon exhorts the people to let their hearts be wholly true to the Lord and obey Him.

We started by contrasting two houses—God's Temple and Solomon's palace. The Temple proclaims God's Name and serves as a house of prayer. The New Testament reinterprets the concept of the Temple. We are the Temple. Ephesians 2:21-22, 3:10; 1 Corinthians 3:16-17, 6:19

Presence: You are filled with God's presence and carry God's Name.

Purpose: Your purpose is to proclaim God's Name to the world.

Prayer: You are a house of prayer, guided by the symbolic furniture:

Altar of Incense: Represents prayer.

Table of Bread: God is the Bread of Life.

Candlestick: Represents God's light.

Laver: Represents washing with the Word and praying the Word back to the Father.

Altar: Represents Christ's sacrifice.

Ark: Represents God's Covenant and His Presence.

Let your heart be wholly devoted to the Lord as a proper temple. Stop building a royal palace with a little God temple on the side. Let Him fashion you into a place of prayer that carries His Name.

1 Kings 5-6

Pastor Marshall Ochs | July 21, 2024

In this message, Pastor Marshall teaches from 1 Kings 5-6. These chapters cover the construction of Solomon’s Temple. The story begins with Solomon cutting a covenant with Hiram of Tyre to secure cedar from Lebanon and ends with 7 years of construction. In the middle of the story, the Lord visits Solomon with a subtle reminder of heart devotion. If Israel is devoted to the Lord, the temple will be a blessing. If Israel is devoted to the temple, it will become a snare.

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Read 1 Kings 5:1-5. David wanted to build a temple for the Lord. However, God never asked for a temple. God answers David’s prayer and allows his son Solomon to build a temple. Solomon wants to use the best materials to build this temple and reaches out toHiram, the King of Tyre who had the best cedar trees in the land.

• Have you desired to do something for God that He has not asked you to do?

• What was the motive? Was it to make yourself feel better about pleasing God? Was it to have the esteem of others?

Read 1 Kings 5:5-18. It would seem as though everything is going well as the temple is being built. However, we must look deeper into what is actually happening. Hiram and Solomon used forced labor (slavery) in order to build the temple. Solomon made a covenant with Hiram which was forbidden. (See Exodus 23:32 & Deuteronomy 4:23) This treaty included people who worshiped false gods. This is demonic! Solomon is using his gift of wisdom incorrectly. He has compromised in order to get what he wants. God blesses us because He is good, not because we are good. His blessings to us are an invitation to come to Him – the Blesser, not use them to have our own way.

• Have you used the gifts God has given to you to acquire what you want or further your agenda, rather than using those gifts for the purpose of what God wants?

• What is your heart devoted to? God’s agenda or yours?

Read 1 Kings 6:1-7. The details of the building of the temple draw our attention to some important facts. Just like the outside walls didn’t pierce the temple walls, nothing in ministry should pierce the presence of God in our worship. Distractions should be minimal, and our attention should be solely on the Lord. Even though our service to Him can be well meaning, it can also become a distraction or an idol.

• What has distracted your attention from the Lord?

• Have you been busy serving God rather than in relationship with Him?

Read 1 Kings 6:15-38. Let’s focus on 1 Kings 6:11-13. In these three verses the focus is on the worship of God – not the temple. It is a reminder to us to remember what is most important, our heart’s devotion to the Lord. Our relationship with God through the study of His word and prayer is imperative. How we use the gifts He has blessed us with comesfrom the understanding of His will in our lives. Ministry is good, but the worship of that over God is a stumbling block.

• Pray and ask the Lord to reveal the area or areas of your life where you have put God second and other things first. (i.e., money, person, career, ministry, houses or buildings, giftings, etc.)

• Repent and turn back to a right relationship with God. Make the Lord your heart’s devotion and not the temporal things of this world.

1 Kings 3-4

Pastor Marshall Ochs | July 14, 2024

In this message, Pastor Marshall teaches from 1 Kings 3-4. These chapters cover the early years of Solomon’s reign over Israel. The chapter begins with Solomon forging an alliance with Egypt and marrying foreign women. He also offers sacrifices to the Lord, but he makes his offering at the high places of worship. The author portrays Solomon as one who loves the Lord, but is also deeply conflicted with competing alliances. The Lord shows grace to Solomon in hearing and answering his prayers, but the expectation is to forsake worldliness and embrace godliness.

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Last week we studied 1 Kings 2 and David dies and his son Solomon takes over as the new King. The last words in 1 Kings 2 were, “So, the kingdom was established in the hand of Solomon.” Today we took a look at what happened next.

Read 1 Kings 3-1-3. Solomon makes an alliance with the Pharoah of Egypt by marrying one of his daughters. This was the beginning of his downfall. Although Solomon’s marital alliances built friendships with surrounding nations, it also became the pathway for pagan worship and practices. Solomon’s foreign wives eventually lured him into idolatry. Being unequally yoked in marriage can become an obstacle in our relationship with God. Trying to please both man and God leads to making compromises and a divided heart. Solomon chose his own selfish desires over God’s instruction. While Solomon loved God, he loved other desires more.

• As you reflect on this truth, how have you compromised your faith and obedience to God for personal desires?

• Do you desire to please others or keep the peace with those who don’t share your faith and find yourself participating in conversations and activities you know are in direct contradiction to God’s word?

• Are you willing to turn away from what is holding you back from complete surrender to God and His will for your life?

• We cannot serve two masters. (See Matthew 6:24 and Luke 16:13.) We cannot hold hands with this world and God.

Read 1 Kings 3:4-15. After Solomon makes sacrifices to God in the high places – which was against God’s instruction to His people, God comes to him in a dream and tells him to ask for whatever he wants, and God will give it to him. Solomon asks for wisdom and God gives it to him. While this was a humble request, it shows the contrast between wanting his own personal desires and his desire to serve God. Unfortunately, this is a perfect example of the human condition.

• If God were to ask you that question, what would your answer be? Be honest!

In this passage we see that even though Solomon’s faith is immature and weak, God hears and answers his prayer. This should be an encouragement to us that even in our weakness and brokenness, God hears and answers our prayers. God often blesses us in order to bring us closer to Him and away from the things that so easily entangle us.Read 1 Kings 3:16-28. This story is a classic example of the wisdom God had blessed Solomon with. The people in his land benefited greatly from his wisdom.

• What blessings has God given you?

• Have you used those blessings to bless others?

• Have God’s blessings caused you to fall into the sin of greed? Do you continue to desire more and more from God without having a generous heart towards God and others?

Read 1 Kings 4. The blessings we see Solomon enjoy as a result of his wisdom were many. Solomon had greater territory, financial wealth, plenty of food, a strong military and great fame and popularity. The people of Solomon’s day were also prosperous. Verse 20 tells us that they were happy and had plenty to eat and drink. However, the most important thing was missing…a spiritual devotion to the Lord. We can have all kinds of blessings from God and yet be missing the most important blessing – a relationship with God through His son, Jesus.

• As we reflect on this teaching today, the question we should be asking ourselves is, how have the blessings God has given me shaped my faith and my life?

• Do I have a divided heart? What kind of person do I want to be?

Worldliness can consume us! It’s never too late to repent and turn back to God! He loves us and is kind towards us! Walk in His ways and enjoy the blessings of an abundant life in Christ Jesus!

1 Kings 2

Pastor Marshall Ochs | July 7, 2024

In this message, Pastor Marshall teaches from 1 Kings 2. This chapter covers the death of David and the beginning of Solomon’s reign. David gives Solomon advice on how to establish the kingdom and the importance of being a man and walking in God’s ways. This includes rewarding those who are generous and bringing judgment on those who walk in wickedness. David’s advice on establishing a kingdom is paralleled in Christ’s teaching of the Kingdom of God in unique ways. This chapter has many valuable applications for followers of Jesus.

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This week, we are studying 1 Kings 2. As we reflect on these passages, let's remember the patterns and repetitions that get our attention, much like Jesus highlighted in Luke 24. These recurring themes, numbers, and phrases hold significant meaning. Keep this in mind as we explore 1 Kings.

1 Kings 2:1-12 — David's Final Words to Solomon

David’s final words to Solomon are profound: “Obey the Lord, and you will prosper.” He urges Solomon to be strong and walk in the Lord's ways. David emphasizes that true wisdom, effectiveness, and success come from obedience to God.

Reflection: To be a good leader, we must obey the Lord, be set apart, and make righteous choices even when difficult. How are you aligning your life with God's commands to ensure His blessings? Do you define blessings as the world or God’s definition?

1 Kings 2:13-25 — The Judgment of Adonijah

Adonijah, Solomon’s older brother, previously attempted to take the throne. Despite Solomon’s initial forgiveness, Adonijah’s request to marry Abishag reveals his continued ambition. This request is reminiscent of Absalom’s act of dominance, and Solomon faces an important decision.

Reflection: Solomon’s choice reflects his commitment to establishing a kingdom founded on righteousness. He brings judgment on Adonijah, illustrating the importance of dealing decisively with rebellion and sin. Consider the decisions you face: Are you addressing the root causes of issues in your life or avoiding them like David?

1 Kings 2:26-46 — Solomon's Reign

Solomon’s actions reveal his leadership style: gracious yet firm. He rewards kindness and extends grace but also ensures justice. Abiathar is expelled, Joab is brought to justice, and Shimei is given an opportunity to walk in obedience but ultimately fails.

Reflection: Solomon's reign teaches us about balance in leadership—extending grace while upholding justice. The repeated themes in this chapter—“established” and “die”—highlight the necessity of removing obstacles to establish a firm foundation. What aspects of your life need to be “put to death” to allow Christ’s reign to be established within you?

Christ spoke of His kingdom, established through His death and resurrection (Matthew 4:17). Unlike Solomon, Jesus died for us, inviting us to join Him in death to our old selves. As followers of Christ, we are called to take up our cross (Matthew 16:24), putting to death the deeds of the flesh (Romans 8:13, Colossians 3:5).

Reflection: The characters in 1 Kings 2 symbolize parts of us that must die for Christ’s kingdom to be established:

Joab: Anger, revenge, and a tendency toward violence.Shimei: Gossip, complaining, and cursing.

Adonijah: Entitlement, deception, and selfish plotting.

Consider how these traits manifest in your life and ask the Holy Spirit to help you put them to death.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for what You are teaching us through 1 Kings 2. Help us to walk in obedience and put to death the parts of us that hinder Your kingdom. Strengthen us to make righteous choices and extend grace and kindness to those around us. Establish Your kingdom in our lives as we follow Your ways. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

1 Kings 1

Pastor Marshall Ochs | June 30, 2024

In this message, Pastor Marshall teach from 1 Kings 1. This chapter opens with a striking look at Israel under an aging King David. David has suffered the consequences for his poor decisions with Bathsheba and the entire nation has felt the impact. Solomon has been declared the next king of Israel, but Solomon’s brother wants the throne. Competition erupts and David must declare which boy will become king. The entire chapter is filled with rich application for our life; the most prominent is how our decisions shape us.

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1 Kings 1:1-4

The once mighty warrior David is now an old and frail man, relying on his servants to care for him. They chose to find a beautiful young woman, Abishag, to keep him warm—with no sexual relations involved. David's love for women and his sin with Bathsheba had long-lasting repercussions: the death of his son, turmoil with Absalom, and the future sins of Solomon.

Reflection: The opening of Kings warns us of the long-term impacts of our decisions. Our good and bad choices shape our lives and influence those around us, especially our children. As parents and leaders, we must walk in obedience to God, knowing that disobedience brings consequences and obedience leads to eternal blessings. Consider how you are living and what kind of impact it has on those inside your influence, especially your children.

1 Kings 1:5-10

In contrast to David's frailty, we see the ambitious and handsome Adonijah declaring himself king. Despite David proclaiming Solomon his successor, Adonijah attempts to seize the throne. He throws a grand feast, inviting key military and religious leaders, notably excluding Solomon.

Reflection: Adonijah's actions highlight the dangers of unchecked ambition and weak parenting. David's lack of discipline and failure to set boundaries for his children led to Adonijah's sense of entitlement and rebellion. As parents and mentors, we must guide and correct our children lovingly, setting them on a path of righteousness. Reflect on how you are instilling godly values and discipline in those under your care.

1 Kings 1:11-27

Seeing the unfolding events, Nathan the prophet devises a plan to ensure Solomon's rightful place on the throne. He instructs Bathsheba to plea to David, followed by his own support as a second witness. Nathan is very much aware of David's affection for Bathsheba and her influence over him.

Reflection: Surrounding ourselves with wise, God-fearing people is essential. Nathan's intervention reminds us of the importance of having mentors and friends who will speak truth into our lives and help us stay on the narrow path. Do you have a Nathan in your life who provides godly counsel and encouragement?

1 Kings 1:28-40

Despite his failings as a father, David demonstrates his ability to govern by organizing Solomon's anointing. He orders a public ceremony with priests, prophets, and military leaders, establishing Solomon as king.

Reflection: Leadership requires decisive action and sometimes a public acknowledgment of God's will. David's actions illustrate the need to follow through on God's will, even when we have made mistakes.  Do you find it easier to govern and lead outside your family than lead your children well? Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal how you can lead your children, set proper boundaries, and demonstrate the love of Christ to them.

1 Kings 1:41-53

The noise from Solomon's anointing reaches Adonijah's feast, signaling that the people support Solomon. Solomon, showing mercy, offers Adonijah a chance to live peacefully if he proves himself worthy.

Reflection: Solomon's mercy towards Adonijah mirrors God's grace towards us. Though we deserve punishment for our sins, God offers us a chance to repent and walk in obedience. Our choices have eternal consequences, and we must choose to follow God faithfully. Reflect on how you can extend grace and seek forgiveness in your own relationships.

As we reflect on the opening chapter of 1 Kings, we see the profound impact of obedience and disobedience. Under the old covenant, blessings, and curses were direct consequences of adherence to God's law. Under the new covenant, while our salvation is secured by grace through faith in Jesus Christ, our obedience still reflects our love for Him (John 14:15).

May we choose to walk in obedience, remembering that our choices matter. Consider how God is working in your life through both your obedience and your disobedience. Trust in His grace, seek His wisdom, and surround yourself with godly counsel. As you meditate on these passages this week, ask God to reveal areas where you need to align your choices with His will and strengthen you in your walk with Christ.

Luke 24

Pastor Marshall Ochs | June 23, 2024

In this message, Pastor Marshall teaches from Luke 24. This chapter covers the resurrection narrative and the several appearances of Jesus following the resurrection. The chapter reveals a pattern of people feeling confused, an invitation out of that confusion into deeper understanding, and the results of an expanded Kingdom connected to the deeper understanding. When the early church revisited scripture, their eyes were opened and the gospel was spread. Luke wants us to see this pattern so we recognize it in our lives too. Evangelism is always fueled by seeking of the Lord.

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Let’s begin by reading Luke 24:1-12. The women who went to the tomb that day were consumed with sorrow. They didn’t go to the tomb to see if their Savior was risen as He had told them. They went there to anoint the body of Jesus with spices and perfume to help mask the smell of a dead body. They had to be reminded by the angels who appeared to them as to what Jesus had told them would happen on the third day. Once their eyes were opened to the promises Jesus made, they believed and ran to tell the disciples. Before we think critically of these women, let’s ask ourselves a couple of questions.

1. When faced with sorrow, grief, anxiety, etc., what is your first reaction? Is it to doubt God, or is it to trust Him, His Word and His promises? Do you get caught up in the circumstances that so easily entangle us, or look for God’s provision and direction?

2. These women were visiting a graveyard. Have you been living in your graveyard? This is where we can often get stuck in our hurt and pain. God invites us to remember His Word – read it – feast on it – know it – and give testimony to others with our actions and our words.

Continue reading Luke 24:13-25. Once again, we see followers of Jesus walking along a road to Emmaus feeling confused and sorrowful. They are discussing all that had happened over the last 3 days. Jesus appears to them and reminds them of the Scriptures that prophesied what the Messiah would have to endure before entering into Glory. They too needed reminding from the Word of God. Jesus broke bread at their meal and their eyes were opened to see who He was. They returned to Jerusalem to tell the others.

• When you feel confused about the circumstances you’re facing, do you try to talk it out with others before you read God’s Word and tell Him how you’re feeling? I heard a teacher once ask, “Do you go to the throne before you go to the phone?” Powerful question!

• Do you seek the wisdom and advice from man, before you seek God in His Word or through prayer?

Read Luke 24:36-53. Here’s the third story Luke shares with us concerning Jesus’ resurrection and it repeats the same pattern. The disciples are consumed with fear from religious leaders and doubt concerning His resurrection. Jesus addresses their doubts and opens their minds to understanding of the Scriptures. They were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to spread the Good News to the people.

• Have you been experiencing a season of fear and doubt?

• What are you doing about it?

• Are you in the Word and talking to God in prayer?

As Christie reminded us today, when we are facing all kinds of circumstances in our lives – chaos, confusion, hurt, grief, etc., begin to praise the Lord. Seek Him! Start your day in His Word and in communication with Him! Remind your soul who HE IS! Forget not all His benefits! As Marshall reminded us today, there is a pattern here.

• You may be experiencing a graveyard, traveling down a road of confusion, filled with pain, sorrow, doubt, anger or unforgiveness.

• No matter where you are or what is happening around you, the answer is the same. Revisit Scripture! Read it again and again! We should not have a ‘once and done’ approach to the Word of God!

• Revisiting Scripture opens our eyes to His truth!

• Open eyes enable us to spread the Good News of Christ to others!

Luke 23

Pastor Marshall Ochs | June 16, 2024

In this message, Pastor Marshall teaches from Luke 23. This chapter argues for a literal and historical account of the crucifixion of Jesus. In light of this account, we must make a decision about what we believe about Jesus. The chapter includes major and minor characters that demonstrate different responses to Jesus, but the chapter extends the invitation for us to make a decision about Jesus as well. The man who taught for three years and made bold claims about His divine nature can’t be ignored. Everyone must make a decision about what they believe about Jesus.

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In Luke 23, we encounter the events leading up to and including Jesus’ crucifixion. This chapter is filled with various characters, each responding to Jesus in their own ways. Despite their different roles and actions, they share a common question: "What do you do with Jesus?"

Characters and Their Responses:

Pilate - The Roman governor faced political pressure and tried to avoid responsibility by sending Jesus to Herod. Despite recognizing Jesus' innocence, Pilate ultimately sentenced Him to death to protect his career. Pilate represents those who know the truth but choose self-preservation over righteousness. Pilate feared losing his political power. Fear can either immobilize us or push us to act courageously. Joseph of Arimathea chose the latter, reminding us that our faith should lead us to take bold steps, even when difficult.

Herod - He ridiculed and mocked Jesus before sending Him back to Pilate. Herod embodies those who treat Jesus and His teachings with contempt and disregard, seeing Him as a mere spectacle. The Elders and Religious Leaders - They manipulated the situation to ensure Jesus' death, lying and twisting His words to fit their agenda. This group represents those who alter Jesus’ message to suit their purposes, leading others astray in the process.

The Crowds - They envisioned their Savior arriving as a warrior to save them, but they turned on Him when He didn't do what they thought He should. How often do our own lives not turn out as we imagined, and in our frustration, we turn away from Jesus?

Joseph of Arimathea - a member of the Jewish high council who kept his faith in Jesus private until after Jesus’ death. However, when the time came, he boldly requested Jesus’ body to ensure a proper burial. Joseph’s actions show that true faith can overcome fear, leading to courageous deeds.

Reflection Questions:

1. “What will you do with Jesus?" His teachings are radical and demand a response. Will you change His message to fit your needs, ignore His commands, or follow Him wholeheartedly?2. In what areas of your life are you tempted to act like Pilate, knowing the truth but choosing the easy way out? How can you stand firm in your faith in Jesus Christ and His truth?

3. Have you ever been swayed by the opinions of others in your walk with Jesus? How can you ensure that your decisions about Jesus are based on God’s Word rather than societal trends?

4. Reflect on your personal response to Jesus' radical teachings. How do you interpret His commands to "take up your cross," "die to self," and "love your enemy"? What steps can you take to live out these teachings more fully?

5. Reflect on how you respond to Jesus in your daily life. Do you alter His teachings to fit your lifestyle, ignore His commands, or follow Him despite the cost? Like Joseph of Arimathea, let your faith lead you to bold actions, regardless of the cost.

Luke 22:39-71

Pastor Marshall Ochs | June 9, 2024

In this message, Pastor Marshall teaches from Luke 22:39-71. This chapter covers the events following the Passover meal, leading to the midnight arrest and trial of Jesus. The tribulations of the evening begin in the garden where Jesus tells His disciples to pray against temptation. The Lord’s instructions invite the disciples to consider the spiritual war in their midst and how to endure through prayer. The trials of that evening mirror many trials for disciples today, but the exhortation from Luke is the same — pray!

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In this passage Luke tells us what happened immediately following the Passover celebration. There are important lessons from this passage that are imperative for us to hear, understand and put into practice.

Read Luke 22:39-46. As was customary, prayer followed the Passover meal. Jesus and the disciples walked to the Garden of Gethsemane to pray. Jesus instructs them to pray so they will not fall into temptation. Why? He knows that the battle is on, and they are entering into spiritual warfare. They need to pray in order to be prepared and guarded against the enemy and his schemes. What does Jesus do when He is facing spiritual warfare? He prays!

• Are you aware that we are standing on a spiritual battlefield daily? How do you prepare yourself for battle?

• Are you in the Word daily and actively pursuing a relationship with God through prayer? If not, why?

Jesus prays for this cup to pass from Him. However, we see Him follow that with, “Yet not my will, but Yours be done.” Jesus is then visited by an angel to comfort Him.

When we face trials, tribulations or suffering, we want God to remove it. We don’t enjoy the suffering, but God will see us through it and provide what we need.

• The question is, do we trust Him? Are we preparing for the battles we face with the weapon of prayer? We should not face our day without starting it in prayer! (Please refer to Marshall’s notes today for important scripture references on spiritual warfare.)

Read Luke 22:47-53. As Jesus is speaking to the disciples on how important prayer is, a crowd approaches. Judas and this angry mob are being controlled by the enemy. They are under demonic influence. Scripture tells us that Satan entered Judas and manipulated the Pharisees into participating in his plans. Just like the religious leaders of Jesus’ time, the enemy will try to use us to accomplish his will. The enemy will use whatever means necessary to manipulate and tempt us into doing and/or saying the wrong thing. He will use fear and dread to influence us to listen to the wrong voices. Like the disciples, we can miss the fact that we are not fighting a physical battle, but rather a spiritual one against the powers of darkness.

• As you reflect on the challenges you’re facing, are you allowing the enemy to tempt you to live in fear, anger, sorrow, grief, etc.? The only way to avoid this and fight is to PRAY! We must fight our battles on our knees!!

Read Luke 22:54-71. We see Jesus arrested and beaten. Peter denies being a follower of Jesus. In His hour of need, his closest friends abandoned Him.

• Have you been abandoned by someone who was close to you? The Lord sees and understands your pain. The only One who is faithful and true is Christ! He is with you always. Give your sorrow to Him and allow Him to heal your heart.

• Have you been tempted to deny Christ for fear of persecution or rejection? Have you been tempted to follow the crowd and not stand for what you know is holy? Repent and ask the Lord to help you stand strong in the face of persecution – to be alert to the enemy’s ploy to use you to accomplish his plans. PRAY!

• We will face trials and temptations, but like Jesus, we must face them in prayer. As Marshall encouraged us today – Prayer is essential, and we should take it seriously! May we be doers of the Word and not hearers only!