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Gray Matter Renewal

( 4-23-06 )

Luke 24:44-48

          Jesus did something in verse 45 – opened their minds so they could understand the scripture. Me too Lord! Open my mind too so that I can see wondrous things in your Holy Word. How about you, do you feel that way? Do you also feel that you could use a some divine helping in comprehending the mystery of the Word?

          Twice in this chapter of Luke we find Jesus opening the mind (eyes) of the believer. (verses 31 and 45) David understood the need for God to enable man to see clearly when he asked God to open his eyes. (Psl.119:18) Jesus understood that the Word and its truths were deeper than our minds ability to see. (Mat.13:13) Truth itself may even need Godly assistance to view. (Mat.16:17)

          Take a look at the events as they unfold in the saving of Lydia . (Acts 16:9-15) Notice who opened her heart. This is in line with Jesus’ own words in John 6:44 and 65. Why is there a need for our gray matter to be enabled and our hearts to be opened and eyes made to see? Paul gives an answer to this puzzle – 2Cor.4:3-7 The problem of believing, the seeing and accepting of truth is confounded by the power and influence of darkness but God is the rescuer of our souls. (Col.1:12-14)

          Where would Paul get such notions that the reality of mans plight was dyer and desperate beyond their own abilities to effect a solution? Jesus! (Acts 26:13:19) Jesus opened the mind of Paul that he may see the truth. Since this still remains true to this very day what should our response be? How do we apply this understanding to our Christian responsibilities?

1.     Pray that your own mind is not clouded by “the god of this world” and his controlling influences. It is good to remember that you were not always saved and therefore you too were held captive by deception.

2.     As a Christian you too have a role of responsibility. Test the logic of this conclusion – if you are a Christian, that being one who has been enabled by God to believe in Jesus, then you also would be qualified to speak of Gods grace and mercy towards you.

There are two things that you need to know about the salvation process and your involvement. (ok, three things)

1.     Prayer is your first responsibility. (Mat.9:38; Rom.10:13-15; 2Thes.3:1 God desires that you care for what He cares for – the lost. Be proactive in heart and action

2.     Prayer is your second responsibility. (1Jn.5:12-17) Pray for eyes to be opened and hearts to be made accepting of the truth so that it may find the soil deep and rich and sustaining.

3.     Prayer is your continued response concerning your responsibility. (Mat.13:1-23) The farmer’s task is not done until the harvest is couplet and the field empty and the barns full. Heaven is not yet filled.