Jesus is Lord

1Now about the gifts of the Spirit, brothers and sisters, I do not want you to be uninformed. 2You know that when you were pagans, somehow or other you were influenced and led astray to mute idols. 3Therefore I want you to know that no one who is speaking by the Spirit of God says, “Jesus be cursed,” and no one can say, “Jesus is Lord,” except by the Holy Spirit. (1 Corinthians 12:1-3)

Thoughts: Corinth was a place where the Spirit was at work, evidenced in certain "gifts of the Spirit."  Paul was trying to help them understand what is going on and what the people could and couldn't say and be faithful to the Gospel.  The Spirit doesn't inspire us to curse Jesus.  The Holy Spirit is the Spirit of Christ.  The name of Jesus is held in holiness and reverence.  On the other hand, the Spirit inspires us to proclaim Christ not just as a good person, but as Lord- worthy of our following.  All Romans were to proclaim that Caesar is Lord.  But to refuse to call Caesar Lord but call Jesus is Lord instead is astounding and makes a great statement.  

Prayer: Jesus you are my Lord, worthy of following.  I give myself to you.  

3-4-15- The How and Why of Jesus as Lord

16For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him. 17He is before all things, and in him all things hold together. 18And he is the head of the body, the church; he is the beginning and the firstborn from among the dead, so that in everything he might have the supremacy. 19For God was pleased to have all his fullness dwell in him, 20and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven, by making peace through his blood, shed on the cross. (Colossians 1)

Thoughts: This passage tells us why and how Jesus is Lord.  He created all things (visible and invisible- spiritual and physical).  He existed before all things in time and is before all things in priority.  He is the head of his body- the church.  This is between a fourth to a third of the population.  He led the way to eternal life- the first one through the tunnel of death and the first raised from the dead.  God came down through Jesus and raises us up through Jesus.  It is by his royal blood that peace comes between God and man.  Is there any other compliment that could be paid?  He is Lord of heaven, leading people to heaven, and Lord over his people here on earth.  He is to be given the place of the highest Lord. 

Prayer: Lord, you are my Lord.  You are worthy of my devotion.  You are worthy of all that I am.