The David Spoon Experience

The David Spoon Experience 2-15-24 part 2

1) I must admit I appreciate that Paul argued with the Lord. It's not right to argue with God, but it's more common than we admit. When Jesus gave a command, Paul responded with "But Lord," which is a polite way of expressing a differing opinion. However, Jesus' word always prevails. This is a recounting of a past experience by Paul, leaving no room for misinterpretation.2) I find joy in revisiting scripture that resonates with me, so I'd like to revisit our discussion from last week on Acts 22:19. I must admit I appreciate that Paul argued with the Lord. It's not right to argue with God, but it's more common than we admit. When Jesus gave a command, Paul responded with "But Lord," which is a polite way of expressing a differing opinion. However, Jesus' word always prevails. This is a recounting of a past experience by Paul, leaving no room for misinterpretation.3) In his recounting, Paul mentions that Jesus said, "I'm sending you to the Gentiles." In our society, certain words can trigger strong reactions, and this was true even 2000 years ago. The crowd reacted strongly upon hearing the word "Gentiles." It's worth noting that it was Jesus who used this word, proving that even He used words that would trigger people.4) Finally, when questioned, Paul confirmed his citizenship by birth, while the commander admitted that his citizenship had come at a high cost. This reflects the biblical principle that citizenship is not an earned right for those outside the country, a point reiterated multiple times in the Word of God. Citizenship in every land is costly for foreigners. Think about those who aren’t citizens of Heaven. Good point, Dave.

The David Spoon Experience 2-15-24 part 1

A) In 2nd Corinthians 13:5, Paul advises the church at Corinth to examine themselves to see whether they're in the faith. He urges them to test themselves. This process requires several elements to be valid. The first is complete honesty with oneself. It's easy for us to self-justify - Job did it, and we often do it too. What we need to do is examine ourselves and see if there are thoughts, actions, or words that are contrary to Jesus. If they're there, we need to acknowledge them.B) If they're not there, we need to acknowledge that too. On this show, we often discuss the need for honesty. Our reflection needs to be one that we are willing to bring before the Lord when we fail. At the same time, we need to have honesty for where we succeed. It's not just a matter of tearing ourselves down because that's not what God does. It's a matter of acknowledging where we do show faith, where we do act in accordance with God’s purposes and will, and where we are being obedient or growing in obedience. Yes, it’s there inside of you.C) In verse seven, Paul makes a classic switch. He tells the believers that he doesn’t want them to do anything wrong. Who does? God doesn’t want you to do wrong. The people of God don’t want you to do wrong. And quite frankly, if you’re a Christian, you don’t want to do things that are wrong. Paul even says that even if we fail the test, it shouldn’t matter. You should still not do things that are wrong. D) He then makes a fascinating theological statement. We cannot do anything against the truth but for the truth. How is that possible? It’s simple. The truth cannot be altered. It cannot be changed. If we give a bad witness to the truth, we are at fault. That’s fine. But the truth doesn’t become any less the truth. The truth stands steadfast for sure. And Paul simply says, "I’m praying for your perfection, for your maturity, for your completion." Not moral perfection, but completeness. As Christians, we can have everything covered from the Father, through the Son, and by the Holy Spirit.

The David Spoon Experience 2-14-24 part 2

1) Have you ever noticed that there are times in the Christian journey when things seem utterly ridiculous? Then, out of nowhere, miracles occur in mere moments or minutes. Everything changes in the blink of an eye. It can seem, feel, and look like the most challenging circumstances. But then, there's a breakthrough, as if heaven has descended to Earth and rearranged the order of life. Hmmm.2) It will be futile for us to try to comprehend how God orchestrates these events. We can't even discern the beginning from the end in our trials, let alone divine purposes that have far deeper and more profound implications than our minds can grasp. We often cite Job to acknowledge that we, in our self-righteousness, think we understand everything that's happening, but, like Job, we don't. We merely pretend that we do.3) Instead of challenging God and trying to figure out how or when He does things—since His methods and timing are beyond us—it can be sufficient in our faith journey to understand WHY He does things. So, we may not get to know the how or the when, but He does make clear what the WHY is all about.4) In this lesson, we will examine three Old Testament and one New Testament example to gain a better understanding of faith, potentially, and hope for all OF our circumstances. There is not a single event that has occurred to us that is outside of God's knowledge, purposes, or plans. As stated in Ephesians 1:11, "In Him we were also chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of Him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of His will." That should be reassuring.

The David Spoon Experience 2-14-24 part 1

A) Psalm 49:10 tells us that God sees everything, including the wise and the foolish, but they all perish. Some people believe that they will live on through their legacy, which they leave for others to see and remember them. However, many people fail to recognize that their legacy will not enable them to endure forever because their monuments and lands can be renamed or forgotten. They do not realize that names can change.B) In their foolishness, people think that they will last forever because they have made an impact on the world. But that is not what happens. They may do great things for a while, but the truth is that death will consume them, and then, in the grave, there will be no memory of their achievements or possessions.C) This contrasts with those who are not trying to make a mark in this world but are living for the honor of the King of the universe. People who live for the glory of the King, people who live to honor the Lord God Almighty, will discover that God has redeemed their soul from the grave. Not only will He raise the righteous from the dead, He will also welcome them where He is for all eternity. For believers, this welcome comes through Jesus Christ.D) Verses 16 and 17 of this all make it clear. The people who live their lives for this earthly journey alone are exceedingly ignorant. The Word encourages us not to be dismayed when we see people growing rich and having homes that go on for miles and miles because when they die, they’ll take nothing with them. This truth is referenced multiple times in the New Testament. Their wealth will not follow them into the grave.

The David Spoon Experience 2-13-24 part 2

1) As we delve into the second chapter of Romans, starting with the first verse, Paul appears to be responding to his previous writings. He exclaims in the third person, in light of all that has been said, these individuals must be the most terrible. The irony lies in Paul's assertion that we commit the same actions as these people. He implies that we are just as culpable as they are. This applies to us as well, representing our state B. C., before Christ.2) In a complete shift of tone, Paul asks, "Don't you realize how tolerant, patient, gracious, kind, and merciful God is with you?" He explains that God's tolerance, patience, grace, kindness, and mercy are evident in the time He gives us to repent. God doesn't owe us this time; He grants it because He is awesome, kind, gracious, giving, merciful, and full of love.3) However, if we choose not to turn away from our sins, if we refuse to repent or change our direction and follow God's declarations, we, like everyone else, will have to pay the price. God will judge all people using His own righteousness as the standard. The conviction will come when people realize that they've committed a few good deeds and a multitude of bad ones, taking into account their thoughts, words, and actions. Eternal life will be granted to those who persist in doing what is right, seeking the glory, honor, and immortality that come solely from God through Jesus Christ.

The David Spoon Experience 2-13-24 part 1

A) Jesus concludes with the assurance that "the powers of Hell will not conquer." Some interpret this as the Church being indestructible. However, the context suggests that Hell cannot withstand the church's assault. The church, in Greek, is portrayed as being on the offensive, not defensive. If the church embraced this truth, as Jesus intended, it wouldn't remain silent and passive but would assertively impact the world, just as Jesus promised.B) David devotes additional time to discuss Matthew 16:19. He presents three general interpretations of the concepts of binding and loosing, as well as locking and unlocking. In his explanation, he acknowledges the first interpretation, dismisses the second as being far beyond the boundaries of scripture, and aligns most closely with the third interpretation. His review is intriguing, but he emphasizes that the scripture is not about ‘whosoever’, but ‘whatsoever’. Furthermore, all authority is vested in Jesus, who alone has the right to act (Matthew 28:18-20). The church serves as an agent for the Lord, not vice versa.

The David Spoon Experience 2-12-24 part 1

A) Paul, in this final letter, then points out that two of his former co-workers have deserted the ministry. Phygelus and Hermogenes are only mentioned here and nowhere else in the New Testament. Anything else said about them is based on speculation, tradition, or fanciful stories.B) In direct contrast to these two is Onesiphorus. He receives two commendations from Paul: 1) He refreshed Paul, and 2) He was never ashamed of Paul’s chains. In fact, he even went out of his way to search for Paul and be a blessing to him. When was the last time any of us sought someone out just to be a blessing to them in multiple ways?C) It should not surprise anyone that an entire doctrine has been built on verse 18, which has nothing to do with it. Paul mentions that he wants his faithful friend to receive mercy from the Lord on that day. The most direct reference to that day is the second coming of Christ. Paul is not praying for someone to receive mercy that they would not receive otherwise. Paul cannot intercede for someone standing before the face of God. That time has passed.D) Paul opens up chapter two by saying that Timothy needs to be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. Many of us have strong opinions, strong attitudes, and strong personalities, but we are often weak when it comes to grace.
 

The David Spoon Experience 2-12-24 part 2

1) In Genesis 2:21, we find that God causes Adam to fall into a deep sleep. Interestingly, there is no mention of sleep prior to this, only rest. This leads us to speculate that this might have been the first instance of sleep. While Adam is sleeping, God takes one of his ribs and closes up the place from which He had taken it. Essentially, this implies that the first surgery was performed on the only man who had no one to bring him flowers.2) In reality, the woman was created from the rib of a man. God took the rib and fashioned Eve from it. The breath that God originally breathed into Adam continues to be the breath of Eve and every person ever born beyond Adam's existence. The man was created from dust, and the woman was created from man. It's not difficult to deduce that women are a refinement of man's creation. However, it's important to remember that this was before sin entered the world.3) The initial pattern for marriage, relationships, and the continuation of human existence is established here. Adam recognized that Eve was not an animal but a part of himself. It's unfortunate that there is such a pervasive spirit of confusion between the sexes, male and female. Yet, there are only two sexes. Refer to the movie "Kindergarten Cop" for a direct reference point. It's clear that man was incomplete without woman, and a woman could not be complete without man.4) The next portion of scripture, Genesis 22:24, sets the standard relationship that people should follow. A man leaves his father and mother and is joined to his wife, and the two become one. This formula continues for all of humanity. Notice there is no perversion of this in any form. It's simple: Adam is seen as a father, and Eve as a mother. Their offspring will be seen as their children. These children will then unite with others of the opposite sex and start their own family unit.5) Verse 25, which states that Adam and his wife were both naked and felt no shame, is impossible to ignore. There was no shame in being naked because there was no sin. There was no uncontrollable lust because there was no sin. They were naked, and everything was great. They felt no shame, but after sin entered the world, innocence died, and shame came in with a vengeance. There is no freedom from shame without the redemption of Jesus Christ.

The David Spoon Experience 2-9-24 part 2

1) It’s Friday, and it’s time for Dr. Dave’s Devotional Diamonds of the Day. As we delve into two classic DDDDDs, we’ll find them both uplifting and challenging. The first thing we need to understand is this: “Dude, that’s enough.” What does that mean? It means that sometimes the Lord instructs us to do things, and instead of responding with “Yes, Lord,” we start arguing because we believe we’re brilliant or that we can talk our way out of it. However, this kind of attitude does not please God.2) Brother Jay calls in to initiate an exceedingly important discussion about baptism. Brother Jay, a member of the Church of Christ, views baptism as a public confession of his faith, symbolizing the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Many people in the Church of Christ share this belief. While some of the leadership leans more towards water regeneration, the majority of the congregation, the people who attend the Church of Christ, don’t think that way. Remember, these are your brothers and sisters in Christ, either way. 3) We conclude this week with the comforting truth that Jesus knows us not only as a collective but also as individuals. It’s crucial for you to understand that Jesus knows who you are, with all your admirable qualities and all your flaws. It’s vital to realize that Jesus knows us, chooses us, loves us, stays with us, stands by us, and will never fail us. That’s the mindset to carry into the weekend, with that knowledge at the forefront of our hearts and minds. It’s no coincidence that today, the Lord whispered the following to David: “David, I know you. I love you, and I’m with you.” What’s most amazing is that this DDDDD was written three weeks ago, but it was only today that David heard this whisper from the Lord. No, it’s not Biblical authority, but it sure is encouraging.
 

The David Spoon Experience 2-9-24 part 1

It's fantastic, phenomenal Friday as brother Sergio calls in with yet another brilliant question. He asks about the tension between God commanding Moses to challenge Pharaoh, but at the same time also knowing that God is going to harden Pharaoh's heart. David takes the time to talk about the reality that exists between God's foreknowledge and man's free will. It really comes down to a pretty specific position. God knows ahead of time, but He's not telling. Mankind has to make their own decisions. David also addresses how the magicians of Pharaoh could do some dark arts but could not compare to the actual miraculous power of God. Thus, Aaron's snake ate the snake of the magicians from Pharaoh. This helps us understand that the miracle power of God has been, is, and always will be greater than anything darkness can bring about.

The David Spoon Experience 2-8-24 part 2

1) As we proceed to Chapter 22:13, we encounter a man named Ananias, who approaches Paul at the command of God. It is noteworthy that Ananias was not enthusiastic about coming to Paul; he was concerned that it might pose a grave danger to his own life. Nevertheless, God's plans supersede human fears.2) Ananias reluctantly utters the first words to Paul: "Brother Paul.” Take a moment, please, to contemplate how God perceives our relationships with one another. Despite being perceived as an enemy of the gospel, God intervened, prompting his servant to pray over Paul. Now, this former adversary becomes Paul's brother.3) The narrative continues as Ananias urges Paul to no longer delay, instructing him to rise, be baptized, and have his sins washed away by calling on the name of the Lord. However, caution is advised against extrapolating this specific instruction to formulate a universal salvation formula, as it could lead to imbalance and danger.4) Ananias emphasizes the urgency, saying, "Why delay? In other words, let's act promptly." He instructs Paul to get baptized and have his sins washed away by calling on the name of the Lord. While baptism symbolically connects to the washing away of sins, it is the act of calling on the name of the Lord that holds the key to salvation, as indicated in scriptures such as Romans 10:13, Joel 2:32, and Acts 22:21.

The David Spoon Experience 2-8-24 part 1

A) In 2 Corinthians chapter 13:1, Paul points out that he has brought up this issue multiple times to the church of Corinth. He then quotes Deuteronomy chapter 19, verse 15, which states that every matter must be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses. This means that one eyewitness is not enough, and two or three witnesses are preferred to establish a matter. This is another reason why Jesus sent them out two by two.B) Here is Paul at his harshest when he tells the church at Corinth, “I warned you twice before. So now I'm going to have to deal with those who have sinned directly. I don't want you to be fooled. Everybody who is involved in these forms of sin is going to get called out.” It's worth noting that nobody does anything or says anything, or thinks anything that escapes God's notice.C) The apostle then goes on to say, "Since you are demanding that Christ is speaking through me, I'm telling you now. He is not weak in dealing with you but powerful.” Because Jesus loves us, he won't let us get away with the things that we think we should get away with. Too many Christians think that because they're following the Lord, they should get a pass on some of the other things they do that are contrary to Jesus. Guess who disagrees with that? Jesus.D) The point is made that Jesus was crucified in weakness. But after that crucifixion, he ascended to the greatest authority and power of all. And Paul makes a comparison: while the servants of God are weak in and of themselves, in God himself, there is plenty of power. And lest anybody miss the point, the power that we have from God is not designed to cut people down, but, in fact, it is to serve people.