Do And Do Not
Today's reading continues the details of the law for the children of Israel. The nature of the law is to identify practices that are harmful, shameful, criminal, or embarrassing and prescribe an appropriate punishment. Because the people chose the Law in Exodus, they now must fully subject themselves to all of it.
In chapter 16, very specific instructions are given to Aaron concerning the day of Atonement. To fail to follow these instructions to the letter meant death for Aaron and, at the same time, to refuse to offer the sacrifice meant death to the community. In verse 6 it is clear that Aaron must first offer a sacrifice for himself prior to offering sacrifices for the people. He must be purified before he can offer a sacrifice to purify the people.
While this is a type of Christ's sacrifice (the day of Atonement), we know that Jesus lived a life that required no sacrifice on His part. The sacrifice in 16:7, the scape-goat, is also a type of Christ who became our scape-goat, taking upon Himself the sins of us all so that we could be pure.
The other chapters deal with the consumption of blood - an absolute taboo in God's eyes. Additionally the people are warned against sacrifices in "open fields" (17:5) and sacrifices to Molech (18:21). All sacrifices had to be done in the Tabernacle by a priest according to the instructions given to Moses. In chapter 18, the Lord specifically prohibits immoral sexual activity - relations involving incest, relations with relatives - including step-relatives, homosexuality, and bestiality. These are all sins that the people in Canaan were guilty of, sins that had caused them to defile the land, sins that the Lord did not want repeated.
May God bless you and bless the reading of His Word.
Sunday, January 31, 2010
Saturday, January 30, 2010
Leviticus 13 - 15
Ceremonially Unclean
The three chapters of today's reading deal with subjects - sores, infections, skin diseases, mildew, and bodily fluids. I find it remarkable that matters deemed relevant today by modern science where effectively dealt with based on faith in God back then. Because the children of Israel were living in a wilderness and primarily in tents travelling to the promised land, the potential for rapidly spreading diseases to have a deleterious affect on the entire community had to be mitigated with strict rules.
In many ways, instructions the Lord had Moses provide to his followers were a form of risk management. Someone in authority, the priest, would assess the risk, and then, if necessary, quarantine the threat. While it was not a sin to have a skin rash, it was a sin to expose others to it. These laws acknowledged the possibility of contagious diseases and provided methods to prevent a devastating epidemic.
Once again, the wisdom of the Lord provides for not only the spiritual quality of life but also the natural quality of life.
May God bless you and bless the reading of His Word.
The three chapters of today's reading deal with subjects - sores, infections, skin diseases, mildew, and bodily fluids. I find it remarkable that matters deemed relevant today by modern science where effectively dealt with based on faith in God back then. Because the children of Israel were living in a wilderness and primarily in tents travelling to the promised land, the potential for rapidly spreading diseases to have a deleterious affect on the entire community had to be mitigated with strict rules.
In many ways, instructions the Lord had Moses provide to his followers were a form of risk management. Someone in authority, the priest, would assess the risk, and then, if necessary, quarantine the threat. While it was not a sin to have a skin rash, it was a sin to expose others to it. These laws acknowledged the possibility of contagious diseases and provided methods to prevent a devastating epidemic.
Once again, the wisdom of the Lord provides for not only the spiritual quality of life but also the natural quality of life.
May God bless you and bless the reading of His Word.
Friday, January 29, 2010
Leviticus 10 - 12
Aaron Was Silent
The Bible is wonderful and I am always in awe of how it speaks to my heart. Today's portion is in stark contrast to the purely didactic portions we have been reading in that there is a brief narrative in chapter 10. Like all scripture this chapter also is instructive, but teaches through a extremely tragic event.
Aaron's sons, Nadab and Abihu, the two people closest to Aaron in the priestly sense, bring strange fire before the Lord and are immediately immolated. In Lev. 9:24 we read, "And fire blazed forth from the Lord's presence and consumed the burnt offering.[...] When the people saw this, they shouted with joy and fell face down on the ground" In 10:2, "So fire blazed forth from the Lord's presence and burned them up, and they died there before the Lord. [...] v3 And Aaron was silent" The close proximity of these verses with almost identical initial wording, yet drastically different outcomes is not, in my opinion, a coincidence.
Why did Nadab and Abihu feel compelled to violate the law of the Lord? Many have reasoned and written about this - scholars far more learned and erudite in the Torah than I shall ever be. There had to be a tinge of hubris on their part, something in them that caused them to feel they were somehow exempt, or above the judgement of God. But, as the Lord demonstrated, His judgement was quick and final without even a hint of mercy.
At the end of chapter 9, there was great joy and spiritual reverence. In this narrative, there was silence. The Bible states that after Moses explained the death of his (Aaron's) sons to him, "And Aaron was silent." This speaks volumes to me. What could Aaron have said? Was he numb from what had just occurred? Did he suddenly realize the full import of the Law? Did he realize that an utterance under these conditions would be meaningless? We may never completely know - the Bible says no more about his silence.
There is some closure to the story in a symmetrical response by Moses to Aaron at the end of Chapter 10. Moses complains to Aaron's other sons that they should have consumed a sin offering that was on the altar but instead they allowed it to be consumed by fire. The Bible states in verse 16 that Moses "became angry" questioning their not eating the offering. He then expounds on their obligation to eat the offering. Aaron is now no longer silent stating (verse 19), "'Today my sons presented both their sin offering and their burnt offering to the Lord. And yet this tragedy has happened to me. If I had eaten the people's sin offering on such a tragic day as this, would the Lord have been pleased?' And when Moses heard this, he was satisfied." Aaron provides a glimmer of insight into his psyche, and this time Moses is silent.
May God bless you and bless the reading of His Word.
The Bible is wonderful and I am always in awe of how it speaks to my heart. Today's portion is in stark contrast to the purely didactic portions we have been reading in that there is a brief narrative in chapter 10. Like all scripture this chapter also is instructive, but teaches through a extremely tragic event.
Aaron's sons, Nadab and Abihu, the two people closest to Aaron in the priestly sense, bring strange fire before the Lord and are immediately immolated. In Lev. 9:24 we read, "And fire blazed forth from the Lord's presence and consumed the burnt offering.[...] When the people saw this, they shouted with joy and fell face down on the ground" In 10:2, "So fire blazed forth from the Lord's presence and burned them up, and they died there before the Lord. [...] v3 And Aaron was silent" The close proximity of these verses with almost identical initial wording, yet drastically different outcomes is not, in my opinion, a coincidence.
Why did Nadab and Abihu feel compelled to violate the law of the Lord? Many have reasoned and written about this - scholars far more learned and erudite in the Torah than I shall ever be. There had to be a tinge of hubris on their part, something in them that caused them to feel they were somehow exempt, or above the judgement of God. But, as the Lord demonstrated, His judgement was quick and final without even a hint of mercy.
At the end of chapter 9, there was great joy and spiritual reverence. In this narrative, there was silence. The Bible states that after Moses explained the death of his (Aaron's) sons to him, "And Aaron was silent." This speaks volumes to me. What could Aaron have said? Was he numb from what had just occurred? Did he suddenly realize the full import of the Law? Did he realize that an utterance under these conditions would be meaningless? We may never completely know - the Bible says no more about his silence.
There is some closure to the story in a symmetrical response by Moses to Aaron at the end of Chapter 10. Moses complains to Aaron's other sons that they should have consumed a sin offering that was on the altar but instead they allowed it to be consumed by fire. The Bible states in verse 16 that Moses "became angry" questioning their not eating the offering. He then expounds on their obligation to eat the offering. Aaron is now no longer silent stating (verse 19), "'Today my sons presented both their sin offering and their burnt offering to the Lord. And yet this tragedy has happened to me. If I had eaten the people's sin offering on such a tragic day as this, would the Lord have been pleased?' And when Moses heard this, he was satisfied." Aaron provides a glimmer of insight into his psyche, and this time Moses is silent.
May God bless you and bless the reading of His Word.
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Leviticus 7 - 9
Preparation of the Priesthood
The instructions for the Guilt offering and the Peace offering are reiterated in chapter 7. At the end of the chapter a solemn warning is given against consuming the blood and fat of an animal. While it is apparent that the prohibition against consuming the blood is related to the life being in the blood, the prohibition against the fat is more difficult to understand. Without a doubt, the book of Leviticus is a book of repetitions - evidence that the Lord wanted the children of Israel to understand the severity and seriousness of the Law.
In chapter 8, Moses provides detailed instructions to Aaron and his sons on the many sacrifices they will offer in order to establish them into the priesthood. After the sacrifices are made, they had to stay in the Tabernacle for seven days. This was a type of the sacrifice of Christ prior to the seven Gentile church ages.
On the eighth day (chapter 9), Aaron and Moses offer more sacrifices for Aaron and his sons and sacrifices for the people as a whole. This is to firmly establish the role of the priesthood and the Tabernacle in the daily worship of the people. At the end of the chapter the Lord confirms His pleasure with all that has been done by letting the glory of the Lord appear to the people. Additionally, holy fire consumed the totality of the offering on the altar. This was so awesome, that in verse 24, the Bible states, "When the people saw this, they shouted with joy and fell face down on the ground." Praise the Lord!
The instructions for the Guilt offering and the Peace offering are reiterated in chapter 7. At the end of the chapter a solemn warning is given against consuming the blood and fat of an animal. While it is apparent that the prohibition against consuming the blood is related to the life being in the blood, the prohibition against the fat is more difficult to understand. Without a doubt, the book of Leviticus is a book of repetitions - evidence that the Lord wanted the children of Israel to understand the severity and seriousness of the Law.
In chapter 8, Moses provides detailed instructions to Aaron and his sons on the many sacrifices they will offer in order to establish them into the priesthood. After the sacrifices are made, they had to stay in the Tabernacle for seven days. This was a type of the sacrifice of Christ prior to the seven Gentile church ages.
On the eighth day (chapter 9), Aaron and Moses offer more sacrifices for Aaron and his sons and sacrifices for the people as a whole. This is to firmly establish the role of the priesthood and the Tabernacle in the daily worship of the people. At the end of the chapter the Lord confirms His pleasure with all that has been done by letting the glory of the Lord appear to the people. Additionally, holy fire consumed the totality of the offering on the altar. This was so awesome, that in verse 24, the Bible states, "When the people saw this, they shouted with joy and fell face down on the ground." Praise the Lord!
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Leviticus 4 - 6
Sin and Guilt Offerings
Today's portion continues the instructions on offerings - the Sin and Guilt Offerings. The Sin offering primarily covers unintentional trespasses and differs slightly depending for whom the offering is made. If it is for sin of a priest or the community as a whole, there can be no material benefit to the priests or the community rendered from the offering. The carcass must be taken outside the camp and burned completely. If the sin offering is for an elder or a lay person, then depending on their financial status - lesser animals (sheep, goats, doves, pigeons) may be used. In fact, the Lord even provides for the truly poor to offer grain.
The Guilt offering is for intentional trespasses - lying, cheating, stealing. In addition to the offering (which is similar to the Sin offering) restitution plus 20% must be made. Once again, the financial status of the individual is taken into account.
Both of these offerings are atoning offerings in that they restore fellowship with God. What I found interesting was that awareness at the time of commission/omission was not an excuse. The trespasser is guilty of the sin regardless of their knowledge of the law if they transgressed the law. This, for me, highlighted the severity of law and judgement and caused me to appreciate, even more, the grace and mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ.
May God bless you and bless the reading of His Word.
Today's portion continues the instructions on offerings - the Sin and Guilt Offerings. The Sin offering primarily covers unintentional trespasses and differs slightly depending for whom the offering is made. If it is for sin of a priest or the community as a whole, there can be no material benefit to the priests or the community rendered from the offering. The carcass must be taken outside the camp and burned completely. If the sin offering is for an elder or a lay person, then depending on their financial status - lesser animals (sheep, goats, doves, pigeons) may be used. In fact, the Lord even provides for the truly poor to offer grain.
The Guilt offering is for intentional trespasses - lying, cheating, stealing. In addition to the offering (which is similar to the Sin offering) restitution plus 20% must be made. Once again, the financial status of the individual is taken into account.
Both of these offerings are atoning offerings in that they restore fellowship with God. What I found interesting was that awareness at the time of commission/omission was not an excuse. The trespasser is guilty of the sin regardless of their knowledge of the law if they transgressed the law. This, for me, highlighted the severity of law and judgement and caused me to appreciate, even more, the grace and mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ.
May God bless you and bless the reading of His Word.
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Leviticus 1 - 3
Lay Your Hand On The Animal's Head
Today begins a new book, the third book in our reading and the third book of the Bible. Leviticus formalizes the religious ceremonies the Jews are to observe and provides detailed instructions on how to approach God, how to remain in fellowship with God, the priesthood, and other legal details of daily life. Like much of the Old Testament in general, and the Pentateuch in particular, the symbolism between the law and Christian life is readily apparent.
Chapter 1 starts of with descriptions of three of the five types of offerings the Jews will be required to bring to the Tabernacle. Leviticus 1:1 states, "The Lord called to Moses from the Tabernacle..." This is change from Exodus where Moses ascended the Holy Mountain to hear from God. But the Lord promised in Exodus 25:8, that He "would live among them" in the Tabernacle, so this is a fulfillment of that promise.
The first offering is a Burnt offering - the purpose of which is to identify the sinner with the offering to provide a way to be in fellowship with God. Identification was done by placing one's hand on the sacrifice as it was killed. This is a key point! The one offering the sacrifice had to be identified with his sacrifice.
Verse 1:4 states, "Lay your hand on the animal's head, and the Lord will accept its death in your place to purify you, making you right with him." The sinner should be the one dying, but if this was strictly enforced, in a very short time there would be no one left! So the Lord, in His mercy, allowed a substitutionary death (performed first by God Himself in the Garden of Eden in Genesis 3:21) so that man could be cleansed of his sins. This first offering is an atoning offering, the first of three atoning offerings (there is a Sin offering and a Guilt offering discussed in tomorrow's portion). It is important because it identifies man as sinful without naming a specific act, i.e. just by nature man is sinful and thus an offering must be made.
It is also important to note that the Lord provided a way for all Jews, regardless of their station in life or their wealth or indigence, to make a burnt offering. If they could not afford or did not have a herd animal, i.e. a bull, they could use a flock animal, e.g. sheep or goat. If the person was so poor they had neither herds nor flocks, they could offer a bird-a pigeon or dove. So every person was without excuse and could offer something to the Lord.
The other two offerings in today's reading are non-atoning sacrifices - the sacrifice did not purify the believer rather it was a gift from the worshiper to God. These are the Grain offering and Peace offering. Like the Burnt offering, these spoke of Christ's sacrifice on Calvary for our sins. All the offerings had to be animals without defect (the Burnt offering and Peace offering) - a clear type of Christ - and the Grain offering had to be without leaven - also a type of the humility and purity of Christ - our perfect sacrifice.
May God bless you and bless the reading of His Word.
Today begins a new book, the third book in our reading and the third book of the Bible. Leviticus formalizes the religious ceremonies the Jews are to observe and provides detailed instructions on how to approach God, how to remain in fellowship with God, the priesthood, and other legal details of daily life. Like much of the Old Testament in general, and the Pentateuch in particular, the symbolism between the law and Christian life is readily apparent.
Chapter 1 starts of with descriptions of three of the five types of offerings the Jews will be required to bring to the Tabernacle. Leviticus 1:1 states, "The Lord called to Moses from the Tabernacle..." This is change from Exodus where Moses ascended the Holy Mountain to hear from God. But the Lord promised in Exodus 25:8, that He "would live among them" in the Tabernacle, so this is a fulfillment of that promise.
The first offering is a Burnt offering - the purpose of which is to identify the sinner with the offering to provide a way to be in fellowship with God. Identification was done by placing one's hand on the sacrifice as it was killed. This is a key point! The one offering the sacrifice had to be identified with his sacrifice.
Verse 1:4 states, "Lay your hand on the animal's head, and the Lord will accept its death in your place to purify you, making you right with him." The sinner should be the one dying, but if this was strictly enforced, in a very short time there would be no one left! So the Lord, in His mercy, allowed a substitutionary death (performed first by God Himself in the Garden of Eden in Genesis 3:21) so that man could be cleansed of his sins. This first offering is an atoning offering, the first of three atoning offerings (there is a Sin offering and a Guilt offering discussed in tomorrow's portion). It is important because it identifies man as sinful without naming a specific act, i.e. just by nature man is sinful and thus an offering must be made.
It is also important to note that the Lord provided a way for all Jews, regardless of their station in life or their wealth or indigence, to make a burnt offering. If they could not afford or did not have a herd animal, i.e. a bull, they could use a flock animal, e.g. sheep or goat. If the person was so poor they had neither herds nor flocks, they could offer a bird-a pigeon or dove. So every person was without excuse and could offer something to the Lord.
The other two offerings in today's reading are non-atoning sacrifices - the sacrifice did not purify the believer rather it was a gift from the worshiper to God. These are the Grain offering and Peace offering. Like the Burnt offering, these spoke of Christ's sacrifice on Calvary for our sins. All the offerings had to be animals without defect (the Burnt offering and Peace offering) - a clear type of Christ - and the Grain offering had to be without leaven - also a type of the humility and purity of Christ - our perfect sacrifice.
May God bless you and bless the reading of His Word.
Monday, January 25, 2010
Exodus 37 - 40
The Tabernacle Is Completed
We reach another milestone in our reading today, in that we have finished Exodus. Today's portion continues with the completion of the Tabernacle and all the holy items it is to contain. Bezalel and those he is in charge of continue the work according to God's plan, "just as the Lord commanded Moses."
The amount of material used to complete the tabernacle is astounding. Over 2000 pounds of gold, 7500 pounds of silver, and 5300 pounds of bronze were required. God had to be with the people working with such a large amount of valuable material.
Moses inspects the work that has been completed. In 39:42 the Bible declares "When he found it had been done just as the Lord commanded him, he blessed them." After the priests were prepared, and all the pieces were in the correct place, the glory of the Lord completely filled the Tabernacle (40:34). This was a blessing and a comfort to the children of Israel and a lesson to us. When we follow His commandments and have everything in place, then the Lord blesses us with His presence.
May God bless you and bless the reading of His Word.
We reach another milestone in our reading today, in that we have finished Exodus. Today's portion continues with the completion of the Tabernacle and all the holy items it is to contain. Bezalel and those he is in charge of continue the work according to God's plan, "just as the Lord commanded Moses."
The amount of material used to complete the tabernacle is astounding. Over 2000 pounds of gold, 7500 pounds of silver, and 5300 pounds of bronze were required. God had to be with the people working with such a large amount of valuable material.
Moses inspects the work that has been completed. In 39:42 the Bible declares "When he found it had been done just as the Lord commanded him, he blessed them." After the priests were prepared, and all the pieces were in the correct place, the glory of the Lord completely filled the Tabernacle (40:34). This was a blessing and a comfort to the children of Israel and a lesson to us. When we follow His commandments and have everything in place, then the Lord blesses us with His presence.
May God bless you and bless the reading of His Word.
Sunday, January 24, 2010
Exodus 33 - 36
Your Presence Among Us
This portion occurs after the people sin with the gold calf. The Lord is obviously pleased with Moses' faithfulness, but is still calling them a "stubborn and rebellious people" (33:3). Moses intercedes on their behalf making this impassioned statement in 33:16, "For your presence among us sets your people and me apart from all other people on the earth." This is absolutely true! God's presence is the difference maker. Without His presence, His spirit, we are nothing. Only He can make a difference in our lives.
This portion also repeats the instructions the Lord gave Moses the first time he was on Mt Sinai - it is almost a word for word repetition. Additionally it repeats the assignment of the crafting of the Tabernacle to Bezalel and Oholiab. These men were gifted in craftsmanship, wisdom, and leadership. A careful reading of chapter 36 reveals that these two men followed the instructions of the Lord to the letter.
This is a good lesson for all of us! If we will obey His Word and follow those in whom He has placed His gifts of ministry, then His presence will be among us.
May God bless you and bless the reading of His Word.
This portion occurs after the people sin with the gold calf. The Lord is obviously pleased with Moses' faithfulness, but is still calling them a "stubborn and rebellious people" (33:3). Moses intercedes on their behalf making this impassioned statement in 33:16, "For your presence among us sets your people and me apart from all other people on the earth." This is absolutely true! God's presence is the difference maker. Without His presence, His spirit, we are nothing. Only He can make a difference in our lives.
This portion also repeats the instructions the Lord gave Moses the first time he was on Mt Sinai - it is almost a word for word repetition. Additionally it repeats the assignment of the crafting of the Tabernacle to Bezalel and Oholiab. These men were gifted in craftsmanship, wisdom, and leadership. A careful reading of chapter 36 reveals that these two men followed the instructions of the Lord to the letter.
This is a good lesson for all of us! If we will obey His Word and follow those in whom He has placed His gifts of ministry, then His presence will be among us.
May God bless you and bless the reading of His Word.
Saturday, January 23, 2010
Exodus 29 - 32
The People Sin
The Lord continues His instructions to Moses explaining the steps to take to ordain Aaron and his sons into the priesthood. He gives detailed plans for the altar of incense and the bronze basin. Once again, the symbolism of each of these acts and sacrifices all point to Christ and His sacrifice at Calvary.
In Chapter 31 the Lord names the artisans He has equipped with "the Spirit of God, ..., great wisdom, ability, and expertise" (vs 3). When the Lord needs something done, He provides a way and the people to do the job.
Alas, while Moses is on the mountain receiving the written instructions from God, written by His finger (31:18), the children of Israel are growing impatient. They forgot, or ignored, their promise in 24:3, "We will do everything the Lord has commanded." Instead they have Aaron make a golden calf and begin to worship it in pagan, drunken revelry. The Lord is incredulous at their actions. In 32:8 He exclaims, "How quickly they have turned away from the way I commanded them to live!" Only the intervention of Moses (as a type of Christ interceding on our behalf) stops the Lord from destroying them all. It was the spirit of Christ in Moses that caused him to ask the Lord to belay His punishment.
May God bless you and bless the reading of His Word.
The Lord continues His instructions to Moses explaining the steps to take to ordain Aaron and his sons into the priesthood. He gives detailed plans for the altar of incense and the bronze basin. Once again, the symbolism of each of these acts and sacrifices all point to Christ and His sacrifice at Calvary.
In Chapter 31 the Lord names the artisans He has equipped with "the Spirit of God, ..., great wisdom, ability, and expertise" (vs 3). When the Lord needs something done, He provides a way and the people to do the job.
Alas, while Moses is on the mountain receiving the written instructions from God, written by His finger (31:18), the children of Israel are growing impatient. They forgot, or ignored, their promise in 24:3, "We will do everything the Lord has commanded." Instead they have Aaron make a golden calf and begin to worship it in pagan, drunken revelry. The Lord is incredulous at their actions. In 32:8 He exclaims, "How quickly they have turned away from the way I commanded them to live!" Only the intervention of Moses (as a type of Christ interceding on our behalf) stops the Lord from destroying them all. It was the spirit of Christ in Moses that caused him to ask the Lord to belay His punishment.
May God bless you and bless the reading of His Word.
Exodus 25 - 28
I Can Live Among Them
Today's portion describes in great detail the Ark of the Covenant, the Tabernacle, the Table, Lampstand, brazen Altar, Aaron's garment, and other items to be used in service to the Lord. The portion begins with a call by the Lord for sacred offerings from the people - to be used in financing and making the items in the Tabernacle.
What impresses me are the details the Lord provides Moses for the construction of the Tabernacle. They are well articulated and meticulous. First, the Lord describes how the Ark of the Covenant is to be made. Acacia wood lined in and out with pure gold. The "pure" adjective is significant.
Like all the articles in the Tabernacle and the Tabernacle itself - all of this is a spiritual type of the believer and the Holy Spirit today. The acacia wood types humans. The pure gold types the spirit of God completely surrounding the believer. When one sees the Ark they do not see the wood, they see the pure gold. When a person is totally sold out to God and filled with His spirit - others observe the Lord and not the flesh of the believer.
The rings and poles were also covered with gold. Note that the "pure" adjective is not used. The spirit of God is what provides our means of moving. It is not pure because a part of our spirit - i.e. our free will - is involved. Once the poles were inserted into the rings (25:15) they must never be removed. Once we submit ourselves to the Holy Spirit - we must forever allow Him to guide us, to bear us up.
The symbolism in the Tabernacle is overwhelming and beyond the scope of this blog. (An excellent reference is the book The Tabernacle, by M.R. De Haan, M.D). Suffice it to say, that every detail relates to us as believers. The cherubim that were molded to the cover of the Ark (which was pure gold - no wood) had to be made of hammered gold - from a single piece of gold. These are representative of the Old and New Testaments - the Word of God in two dispensations - that guards the spirit of God in the believer. Praise the Lord!!! Both Testaments come from the same source - hammered out through the prophets and apostles.
The construction of the Tabernacle served a critical purpose. In 25:8, the Lord commands, "Have the people of Israel build me a holy sanctuary so I can live among them." It was important, after the Lord gave His commandments and instructions, that the Children of Israel have a place to meet God.
Today's portion describes in great detail the Ark of the Covenant, the Tabernacle, the Table, Lampstand, brazen Altar, Aaron's garment, and other items to be used in service to the Lord. The portion begins with a call by the Lord for sacred offerings from the people - to be used in financing and making the items in the Tabernacle.
What impresses me are the details the Lord provides Moses for the construction of the Tabernacle. They are well articulated and meticulous. First, the Lord describes how the Ark of the Covenant is to be made. Acacia wood lined in and out with pure gold. The "pure" adjective is significant.
Like all the articles in the Tabernacle and the Tabernacle itself - all of this is a spiritual type of the believer and the Holy Spirit today. The acacia wood types humans. The pure gold types the spirit of God completely surrounding the believer. When one sees the Ark they do not see the wood, they see the pure gold. When a person is totally sold out to God and filled with His spirit - others observe the Lord and not the flesh of the believer.
The rings and poles were also covered with gold. Note that the "pure" adjective is not used. The spirit of God is what provides our means of moving. It is not pure because a part of our spirit - i.e. our free will - is involved. Once the poles were inserted into the rings (25:15) they must never be removed. Once we submit ourselves to the Holy Spirit - we must forever allow Him to guide us, to bear us up.
The symbolism in the Tabernacle is overwhelming and beyond the scope of this blog. (An excellent reference is the book The Tabernacle, by M.R. De Haan, M.D). Suffice it to say, that every detail relates to us as believers. The cherubim that were molded to the cover of the Ark (which was pure gold - no wood) had to be made of hammered gold - from a single piece of gold. These are representative of the Old and New Testaments - the Word of God in two dispensations - that guards the spirit of God in the believer. Praise the Lord!!! Both Testaments come from the same source - hammered out through the prophets and apostles.
The construction of the Tabernacle served a critical purpose. In 25:8, the Lord commands, "Have the people of Israel build me a holy sanctuary so I can live among them." It was important, after the Lord gave His commandments and instructions, that the Children of Israel have a place to meet God.
Thursday, January 21, 2010
Exodus 21 - 24
Today's reading is one of the longest portions encountered so far - 116 verses. The material lends itself well to the NLT and makes me appreciate this newer translation for ease of understanding.
The material really begins at the end of yesterday's reading, starting in 20:22. The Lord gives Moses more detailed instructions covering a wide variety of subjects. While the Ten Commandments dealt strictly with mankind's relationship to God and mankind's relationship to mankind along spiritual lines, the instructions given in 21 to 23 are meticulous to the point of prescribing specific punishments for specific acts.
The progression of topics is interesting. First, man's approach to God and details about altars are given. The altar must be made of earth or uncut, natural stone. The altar can be accessed by steps. The Lord knew that, as sinners, the children of Israel would need to offer sacrifices for their sins, so the first thing he describes in how they are to do this.
Next he discusses slaves and their treatment. Of particular interest are the actions a slave owner is to take when a slave refuses freedom. The slave is tried before the Lord and then their ear is bored through with an awl. This is a metaphor for the sinner who refuses God's salvation. We are all sinners but we are offered free salvation through Jesus Christ. If we willingly turn down His salvation, then we are deafened to the Word of the Lord forever and remain a slave to sin for the rest of our lives.
The next instructions deal with loss of life, capital punishment, injury, theft of property, social and sexual crimes, and testimony during a trial. For most of these an "in-kind" punishment or payment is exacted on the perpetrator.
The Lord discuss the three required feasts: Unleaved Bread, Firstfruits, and Harvest. All of these are types of the life of Christ and His interactions with believers.
In chapter 24, after Moses discusses all of these instructions to the children of Israel, they make an outstanding pledge - twice! In 24:3 and 24:7 they state, "We will do everything the Lord has commanded." As we will find out in future readings, this promise was not kept - much to the chagrin of Moses, the disappointment of Yahweh, and the punishment of Israel.
May God bless you and bless the reading of His Word.
The material really begins at the end of yesterday's reading, starting in 20:22. The Lord gives Moses more detailed instructions covering a wide variety of subjects. While the Ten Commandments dealt strictly with mankind's relationship to God and mankind's relationship to mankind along spiritual lines, the instructions given in 21 to 23 are meticulous to the point of prescribing specific punishments for specific acts.
The progression of topics is interesting. First, man's approach to God and details about altars are given. The altar must be made of earth or uncut, natural stone. The altar can be accessed by steps. The Lord knew that, as sinners, the children of Israel would need to offer sacrifices for their sins, so the first thing he describes in how they are to do this.
Next he discusses slaves and their treatment. Of particular interest are the actions a slave owner is to take when a slave refuses freedom. The slave is tried before the Lord and then their ear is bored through with an awl. This is a metaphor for the sinner who refuses God's salvation. We are all sinners but we are offered free salvation through Jesus Christ. If we willingly turn down His salvation, then we are deafened to the Word of the Lord forever and remain a slave to sin for the rest of our lives.
The next instructions deal with loss of life, capital punishment, injury, theft of property, social and sexual crimes, and testimony during a trial. For most of these an "in-kind" punishment or payment is exacted on the perpetrator.
The Lord discuss the three required feasts: Unleaved Bread, Firstfruits, and Harvest. All of these are types of the life of Christ and His interactions with believers.
In chapter 24, after Moses discusses all of these instructions to the children of Israel, they make an outstanding pledge - twice! In 24:3 and 24:7 they state, "We will do everything the Lord has commanded." As we will find out in future readings, this promise was not kept - much to the chagrin of Moses, the disappointment of Yahweh, and the punishment of Israel.
May God bless you and bless the reading of His Word.
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Exodus 17 - 20
The Ten Commandments
Today's portion begins with a complaint by the people against Moses because they need water (17:2). Having been self reliant for decades in Egypt, then being slaves prior to the Lord delivering them, the children of Israel still had not learned to place their faith in God. Moses' exasperation with his people begins to manifest (17:4) and he asks the Lord, "What should I do with these people?" His question shows that even Moses needed to learn to have faith.
In 17:6 Moses is told to "strike the rock" to have it bring forth water. As we will read in a later portion, his exasperation and his thought the he has to handle the people will cause him to commit a terrible mistake. In chapter 18 we get a better insight into Moses' condition as it relates to the people he is leading. His father-in-law Jethro pays him a visit and observes that Moses spends all of his day solving problems, trivial and major, for his people. This would fray the nerves of even the most holy and patient person!
Jethro is a wise man and understands the concept of "delegation." In a lesson that could be straight out of a modern day management text, Jethro explains to Moses how to delegate authority (18:17-23). How to set up a management structure with executives, middle managers, and supervisors. This chain of command will ease the time burden and mental strain that Moses is subjected to daily. Seeing the wisdom of Jethro, and with God's blessing, Moses implements the plan with much success.
In chapter 19, the Lord explains to Moses how the people of Israel are "special." How he will set up a covenant with them. How he will protect them. The Lord also has the people prepare for the visitation of the pillar of fire to Moses on Mt Sinai. All of these things are in preparation for the giving of the Ten Commandments.
Chapter 20 details the Ten Commandments - actually "instructions" for His chosen people. Timeless in their application and elegant in their simplicity and magnificent in their scope, these instructions are still relevant today - not only to the Jews and Christians, but to all mankind.
The first four commandments cover all aspects of man's relationship to the only true God.
Today's portion begins with a complaint by the people against Moses because they need water (17:2). Having been self reliant for decades in Egypt, then being slaves prior to the Lord delivering them, the children of Israel still had not learned to place their faith in God. Moses' exasperation with his people begins to manifest (17:4) and he asks the Lord, "What should I do with these people?" His question shows that even Moses needed to learn to have faith.
In 17:6 Moses is told to "strike the rock" to have it bring forth water. As we will read in a later portion, his exasperation and his thought the he has to handle the people will cause him to commit a terrible mistake. In chapter 18 we get a better insight into Moses' condition as it relates to the people he is leading. His father-in-law Jethro pays him a visit and observes that Moses spends all of his day solving problems, trivial and major, for his people. This would fray the nerves of even the most holy and patient person!
Jethro is a wise man and understands the concept of "delegation." In a lesson that could be straight out of a modern day management text, Jethro explains to Moses how to delegate authority (18:17-23). How to set up a management structure with executives, middle managers, and supervisors. This chain of command will ease the time burden and mental strain that Moses is subjected to daily. Seeing the wisdom of Jethro, and with God's blessing, Moses implements the plan with much success.
In chapter 19, the Lord explains to Moses how the people of Israel are "special." How he will set up a covenant with them. How he will protect them. The Lord also has the people prepare for the visitation of the pillar of fire to Moses on Mt Sinai. All of these things are in preparation for the giving of the Ten Commandments.
Chapter 20 details the Ten Commandments - actually "instructions" for His chosen people. Timeless in their application and elegant in their simplicity and magnificent in their scope, these instructions are still relevant today - not only to the Jews and Christians, but to all mankind.
The first four commandments cover all aspects of man's relationship to the only true God.
- He is God alone
- He alone is to be worshipped - there shall be no idols
- His Name is holy and shall not be used in vain
- Time with Him is critical - the Sabbath day must be observed. (Time with God is more critical than money. He only requires a tenth of our increase, but required the Jews to give a seventh of their time. Christians must give 100% of their time to God.)
The next six commandments cover all aspects of man's relationship to man.
- One must honor and obey their parents. This is critical to maintaining the integrity of the family structure. It also is a metaphor for our relationship to God. He (our spiritual parent) brought us forth. Similarly, our parents brought us forth and gave us human life - for that they must be honored. This honors the beginning of human life.
- We cannot take another person's life. This honors the living of human life.
- We must not commit sexual sins. This honors the morality human life.
- We must not steal. This honors the material rights of human life.
- We must not falsely testify against another. This honors the civil rights of human life.
- We must not covet another's possessions. This honors the self-integrity of human life.
These instructions should have been adequate. But as we will find in tomorrow's reading, there was much more law to be given.
May God bless you and bless the reading of His Word.
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
Exodus 13 - 16
The Journey Begins
Today's reading tells the events surrounding the departure of the children of Israel from Egypt and the beginning of their journey to the Promised Land. Several things are immediately apparent. From the beginning, many of the Israelites had misgivings about leaving. In 14:10-12 they panicked at the site of the pursuing Egyptians and declared, "It's better to be a slave in Egypt than a corpse in the wilderness!" This, after the Lord had displayed His glory with a cloud and a pillar of fire (13:21). Even after the tremendous deliverance through the Red Sea miracle, it was only three days before they complained again (15:24). Then in 16:2 they complained about Moses and Aaron. This set the tone for their 40 year journey.
The next thing that stands out is the long-suffering of Yahweh. He abides the constant complaints of the Israelites and provides their needs with abundance and miracles every step of the way. One day they are rejoicing and in awe of God, then next day they are commiserating among themselves about how "good" their life was in Egypt. Yet the Lord, through Moses, always provides a way of escape.
There are many lessons we, as Christians, can learn from this. Instead of complaining about our plight, we need to look to the promises God has before us. We need to manifest faith in His Word.
I was particularly impressed with the "Song of Rescue" Moses sang after crossing the Red Sea and seeing the Army of Egypt destroyed. There are three distinct stanzas to the song in chapter 15. Verses 1-5 praise God for what He did; 6-12 praise God for Who He is; and 13-18 praise God for what He will do. If only the Israelites would have kept that song on their lips, they could have avoided much heartache. Lord, let us not make the same mistake.
May God bless you and bless the reading of His Word.
Today's reading tells the events surrounding the departure of the children of Israel from Egypt and the beginning of their journey to the Promised Land. Several things are immediately apparent. From the beginning, many of the Israelites had misgivings about leaving. In 14:10-12 they panicked at the site of the pursuing Egyptians and declared, "It's better to be a slave in Egypt than a corpse in the wilderness!" This, after the Lord had displayed His glory with a cloud and a pillar of fire (13:21). Even after the tremendous deliverance through the Red Sea miracle, it was only three days before they complained again (15:24). Then in 16:2 they complained about Moses and Aaron. This set the tone for their 40 year journey.
The next thing that stands out is the long-suffering of Yahweh. He abides the constant complaints of the Israelites and provides their needs with abundance and miracles every step of the way. One day they are rejoicing and in awe of God, then next day they are commiserating among themselves about how "good" their life was in Egypt. Yet the Lord, through Moses, always provides a way of escape.
There are many lessons we, as Christians, can learn from this. Instead of complaining about our plight, we need to look to the promises God has before us. We need to manifest faith in His Word.
I was particularly impressed with the "Song of Rescue" Moses sang after crossing the Red Sea and seeing the Army of Egypt destroyed. There are three distinct stanzas to the song in chapter 15. Verses 1-5 praise God for what He did; 6-12 praise God for Who He is; and 13-18 praise God for what He will do. If only the Israelites would have kept that song on their lips, they could have avoided much heartache. Lord, let us not make the same mistake.
May God bless you and bless the reading of His Word.
Monday, January 18, 2010
Exodus 9 - 12
Death of the Firstborns
Pharaoh's pride and stubbornness ultimately cost Egypt everything. Pharaoh was the type of person who could not grasp the idea that there was anything greater than he. Powerful, dictatorial, full of hubris and obdurate to the point of personal pain, he could not and would not accept that God was in total control.
The next six plagues are covered in today's portion. The plagues affected every aspect of the natural world: Water and water borne life, amphibians, insects, livestock, plants, light, and life itself. Yet Pharaoh remained undeterred in his will. Even when he ordered Moses and the Israelites to leave after the death of the firstborns, he makes a curious request in 12:32 stating, "Go, but bless me as you leave." After all he had put the Israelites through in slavery, and after all he had subjected his people and land to during the plagues, Pharaoh still thought only of himself.
His example is not one to follow. There is no joy in defying God. The wages of his sin were death, destruction, chaos, poverty, and misery. May God protect us from such a spirit.
God bless you and bless the reading of His Word.
Pharaoh's pride and stubbornness ultimately cost Egypt everything. Pharaoh was the type of person who could not grasp the idea that there was anything greater than he. Powerful, dictatorial, full of hubris and obdurate to the point of personal pain, he could not and would not accept that God was in total control.
The next six plagues are covered in today's portion. The plagues affected every aspect of the natural world: Water and water borne life, amphibians, insects, livestock, plants, light, and life itself. Yet Pharaoh remained undeterred in his will. Even when he ordered Moses and the Israelites to leave after the death of the firstborns, he makes a curious request in 12:32 stating, "Go, but bless me as you leave." After all he had put the Israelites through in slavery, and after all he had subjected his people and land to during the plagues, Pharaoh still thought only of himself.
His example is not one to follow. There is no joy in defying God. The wages of his sin were death, destruction, chaos, poverty, and misery. May God protect us from such a spirit.
God bless you and bless the reading of His Word.
Sunday, January 17, 2010
Exodus 5 - 8
A Hard Heart
Today's portion begins the process of setting the Hebrew's free from the bondage of Egypt. Moses and Aaron make a simple demand in 5:1 - "Let my people go." Pharaoh reacts in a manner one would expect from a person who thinks of himself as having all power. He did not know the God of the Hebrews nor did he understand a people that worshiped an unseen God. Pharaoh was a God to his people - his word was law. His wishes and desires were carried out without question. For Moses and Aaron to demand freedom for slaves seemed ludicrous to Pharaoh. As a result he increased their labor and caused more hardship.
The burden and demands of slave life had affected the mentality of the Hebrews. In spite of Moses' pleas and explanations that he was sent by God to deliver them, the Bible states in 6:9, "They refused to listen." This is not surprising. When we allow the devil to influence our lives with habits and bad thoughts, we refuse to listen to the Word of God, to the ministry, and to the unction of the Holy Spirit, we become just as obstinate. Sometimes, what the Lord sends to deliver us is so out of line with our human thinking, we despise and reject it.
Exodus 6:14-30 is a genealogical interlude that, frankly, I have not discerned its purpose in terms of where it is placed in scripture. Perhaps it is there to remind the enslaved people who Moses is and, by extension, who the Hebrews are.
In chapter 7, Moses and Aaron begin a series of plagues to get Pharaoh to realize he is not God and Yahweh is God. At first, Pharaoh's magicians replicate the plagues - water to blood, and frogs. By the third plague - gnats - the magician's are convinced, declaring in vs 9, "This is the finger of God!" Pharaoh's heart remains unchanged and refuses to release the Hebrews.
In what can only be thought of as darkly humorous, Pharaoh makes a declaration in 8:10 that defies all logic. Moses tells Pharaoh that if Pharaoh will relent, he will pray to God and have Him remove the frogs. Pharaoh, at this point disgusted with the frogs and the filth they produce, agrees with Moses demands. Moses tells Pharaoh, "You set the time."(vs 9). Pharaoh states, "Do it tomorrow." I found this incredible. Why, when given the opportunity to be delivered from a terrible plague, would anyone, in their right mind, put it off another day? This is the ultimate in procrastination! One more night with the frogs!!!
Pharaoh's stance is reminds me of those who are addicted to cigarettes, or alcoholics, or those with any type of addiction. Given a chance to rehabilitate, or to rid themselves of poison, frequently the choice is to put it off - one more drink, one more hit, one more cigarette. Lord deliver us.
God bless you and bless the reading of His Word.
Today's portion begins the process of setting the Hebrew's free from the bondage of Egypt. Moses and Aaron make a simple demand in 5:1 - "Let my people go." Pharaoh reacts in a manner one would expect from a person who thinks of himself as having all power. He did not know the God of the Hebrews nor did he understand a people that worshiped an unseen God. Pharaoh was a God to his people - his word was law. His wishes and desires were carried out without question. For Moses and Aaron to demand freedom for slaves seemed ludicrous to Pharaoh. As a result he increased their labor and caused more hardship.
The burden and demands of slave life had affected the mentality of the Hebrews. In spite of Moses' pleas and explanations that he was sent by God to deliver them, the Bible states in 6:9, "They refused to listen." This is not surprising. When we allow the devil to influence our lives with habits and bad thoughts, we refuse to listen to the Word of God, to the ministry, and to the unction of the Holy Spirit, we become just as obstinate. Sometimes, what the Lord sends to deliver us is so out of line with our human thinking, we despise and reject it.
Exodus 6:14-30 is a genealogical interlude that, frankly, I have not discerned its purpose in terms of where it is placed in scripture. Perhaps it is there to remind the enslaved people who Moses is and, by extension, who the Hebrews are.
In chapter 7, Moses and Aaron begin a series of plagues to get Pharaoh to realize he is not God and Yahweh is God. At first, Pharaoh's magicians replicate the plagues - water to blood, and frogs. By the third plague - gnats - the magician's are convinced, declaring in vs 9, "This is the finger of God!" Pharaoh's heart remains unchanged and refuses to release the Hebrews.
In what can only be thought of as darkly humorous, Pharaoh makes a declaration in 8:10 that defies all logic. Moses tells Pharaoh that if Pharaoh will relent, he will pray to God and have Him remove the frogs. Pharaoh, at this point disgusted with the frogs and the filth they produce, agrees with Moses demands. Moses tells Pharaoh, "You set the time."(vs 9). Pharaoh states, "Do it tomorrow." I found this incredible. Why, when given the opportunity to be delivered from a terrible plague, would anyone, in their right mind, put it off another day? This is the ultimate in procrastination! One more night with the frogs!!!
Pharaoh's stance is reminds me of those who are addicted to cigarettes, or alcoholics, or those with any type of addiction. Given a chance to rehabilitate, or to rid themselves of poison, frequently the choice is to put it off - one more drink, one more hit, one more cigarette. Lord deliver us.
God bless you and bless the reading of His Word.
Saturday, January 16, 2010
Exodus 1 - 4
The Reluctant Deliverer
It has been a while (maybe 18 months) since I have read Exodus, but immediately I was struck by two things:
It has been a while (maybe 18 months) since I have read Exodus, but immediately I was struck by two things:
- Exodus 1:8 - "A new king came to power in Egypt who knew nothing about Joseph or what he had done."
- Moses did not want the job God had for him.
The Hebrews had done well in Goshen. They had grown in number, in political influence, in wealth, and in power. Like us, they had become self-sufficient and had quit relying on the grace of God. They no longer talked about how God had placed Joseph in Egypt to deliver them. They had allowed the memory of Joseph to fade away, to the point that the new Pharaoh of Egypt only perceived the Hebrews as a threat (1:9).
Out of fear, Pharaoh enslaves them and attempts infanticide (prophetic of Herod at the time of Jesus' birth). His efforts fail at first, but enjoy a modicum of success later (1:22). He becomes more brutal and oppressive in his treatment of the Hebrew slaves, motivating them to beg God for a deliverer. From this chaos and need, Moses is born, trained in the way of the Egyptians, and eventually exiles himself in Midian.
While there he encounters the Lord in a burning bush. This is the second thing that spoke to me. Moses did not want to be the deliver. Moses gives God five reasons why he is not the one to deliver his people:
- 3:11 - "Who am I?" Moses cannot believe that he is the chosen one. He knows he neither has the gravitas to appear before Pharaoh nor the leadership to bring his people out of bondage.
- 3:13 - "Who are You?" Moses asks the Lord to identify Himself with a name he can tell to the Hebrews. It is here in vs 14 that we get the "I AM THAT I AM" name of God.
- 4:1 - "What if they will not believe me?" Moses continues to protest. He does not believe the Lord can use him effectively. He does not think that the people will take him seriously.
- 4:10 - "I cannot speak well." The change in verbs here is significant. His first three times are "protests" - this and the subsequent one are "pleadings." Now, he is making excuses about how he gets tongue tied.
- 4:13 - "Send someone else." This is the final plea from Moses. It is not a flat out refusal, but it is enough to anger the Lord (4:14). For the sake of scripture and the plan of God, the Lord does not relent. Moses will be the deliverer - he was chosen by God in His infinite wisdom and Moses' reluctance will not deter that plan.
Aren't we the same way? Doesn't God have to poke and prod us and provide us with signs, helpers, a promises to get us to do anything? We need a willing heart. We need to fully manifest faith in Him. We need to know His plan for our lives and not look at our own limitations, but look at what His will is for us.
May God bless you and bless the reading of His Word.
Friday, January 15, 2010
Genesis 48 - 50
The End of the Patriarchs
We complete the reading of Genesis today - one book read and 65 to go. The portion tells the story of Jacob/Israel's death and, in chapter 50, the death of Joseph. This ends the patriarchal era of the Hebrews and sets the stage for the exodus and tribal Israel.
In chapter 48, Jacob adopts Ephraim and Manasseh as his own children, making them equal to his own sons in the blessing and inheritance. When blessing them, he crosses his hands. Keep in mind that these two sons of Joseph have a Gentile mother. The adoption and blessing through crossed hands was symbolic of the Gentiles being grafted in and blessed through the Cross of Christ. They received the blessing through the cross before their Jewish brothers were blessed.
In chapter 50, Joseph has to reiterate his forgiveness and grace to his brothers. Irrespective of what he had previously demonstrated to them, he still had to reassure them that all was forgiven and that his exile to Egypt was part of God's plan.
May God bless you and bless the reading of His Word.
We complete the reading of Genesis today - one book read and 65 to go. The portion tells the story of Jacob/Israel's death and, in chapter 50, the death of Joseph. This ends the patriarchal era of the Hebrews and sets the stage for the exodus and tribal Israel.
In chapter 48, Jacob adopts Ephraim and Manasseh as his own children, making them equal to his own sons in the blessing and inheritance. When blessing them, he crosses his hands. Keep in mind that these two sons of Joseph have a Gentile mother. The adoption and blessing through crossed hands was symbolic of the Gentiles being grafted in and blessed through the Cross of Christ. They received the blessing through the cross before their Jewish brothers were blessed.
In chapter 50, Joseph has to reiterate his forgiveness and grace to his brothers. Irrespective of what he had previously demonstrated to them, he still had to reassure them that all was forgiven and that his exile to Egypt was part of God's plan.
May God bless you and bless the reading of His Word.
Thursday, January 14, 2010
Genesis 44 - 47
Reconciliation, Restoration, Preservation
Joseph continues to test his brothers and puts them through conditions guaranteed to discern whether or not they have changed. He has his servants plant his silver cup in Benjamin's grain sack and then entraps the brothers accusing them of thievery to see if they would revert to self-preservation. Would they sacrifice Benjamin or hold true to the promise they made to their father?
In one of the most impassioned pleas of intercession in all of scripture, Judah pleads with Joseph to preserve Benjamin's life and allow his brothers to return him to the ailing Jacob. I found chapter 44 moving and evocative of the spirit of Christ. Judah is willing to sacrifice his life for his younger brother and passes the final test of Joseph.
Joseph dismisses his servants and reveals himself to his brothers. His statement in 45:5 sums up his actions: "It was God who sent me here ahead of you to preserve your lives." There is not a trace of bitterness or blame in Joseph. He realized (because of the dreams of his youth?) that God was in it all. To Joseph, it was over.
His attitude carries over to his instructions to his brothers when they are sent back to Jacob. So Joseph sent his brothers off, and as they left, he called after them. "Don't quarrel about all this along the way." It was over for him, he wanted no revenge and he did not want them to think about it ever again. This is a perfect example of the grace of God and justification.
May God bless you and bless the reading of His Word.
Joseph continues to test his brothers and puts them through conditions guaranteed to discern whether or not they have changed. He has his servants plant his silver cup in Benjamin's grain sack and then entraps the brothers accusing them of thievery to see if they would revert to self-preservation. Would they sacrifice Benjamin or hold true to the promise they made to their father?
In one of the most impassioned pleas of intercession in all of scripture, Judah pleads with Joseph to preserve Benjamin's life and allow his brothers to return him to the ailing Jacob. I found chapter 44 moving and evocative of the spirit of Christ. Judah is willing to sacrifice his life for his younger brother and passes the final test of Joseph.
Joseph dismisses his servants and reveals himself to his brothers. His statement in 45:5 sums up his actions: "It was God who sent me here ahead of you to preserve your lives." There is not a trace of bitterness or blame in Joseph. He realized (because of the dreams of his youth?) that God was in it all. To Joseph, it was over.
His attitude carries over to his instructions to his brothers when they are sent back to Jacob. So Joseph sent his brothers off, and as they left, he called after them. "Don't quarrel about all this along the way." It was over for him, he wanted no revenge and he did not want them to think about it ever again. This is a perfect example of the grace of God and justification.
May God bless you and bless the reading of His Word.
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Genesis 40 - 43
The Ascent of Joseph
This portion details the ascent of Joseph from prison to the highest authority in the land of Egypt, besides Pharaoh. Ironically, dreams were the motivating factor in his brother's despicable act of selling him into slavery, yet it is the interpretation of dreams that pave the way for his release from prison and rise to prominence. These two sets of dreams complete the dream cycle in Joseph's life.
In the case of the wine steward and the baker, fellow prisoners with Joseph, he interprets their dreams and plants a seed in the mind of the wine steward that would later pay off in gaining his freedom. The dream of the baker is congruent with the first dream of Joseph in that it deals with grain related metaphors. It is also congruent with the second dream of Pharaoh had which used grain stalks as metaphors for plenty and famine.
The other three dreams are congruent, but in a less apparent way. Joseph's dream of the Sun, moon, and stars was symbolic of heavenly objects. The wine stewards dream of a vine and wine deals with "spirit" related metaphors. The dream of cows coming out of the Nile is symbolic of worshiped objects in Egypt. Thus, there is a common theme of spiritual matters in all three dreams.
These dreams also reveal the characteristics of Joseph that Pharaoh observed and rewarded. Joseph's dreams as a young lad spoke of his future leadership. The dreams of the prisoners spoke of his future wisdom. The dreams of Pharaoh spoke of his future management and planning skills. All of these coalesce in Joseph is a magnificent way to show the grace and perfection of the Lord and His protection of His chosen people through Jacob.
The first dream of Joseph - where the grain stalks bow down to him - is partially fulfilled when his brothers come to Egypt and have to bargain with Joseph (unknown to them) for food. In 42:6, the Bible states, "When they arrived, the bowed down before him with their faces to the ground." A careful reading of the interactions with his brothers reveal that Joseph tests them in ways very similar to the ways they mistreated him. For example, they threw Joseph in a pit, Joseph placed them in prison for three days. The brothers thought of Joseph as a spy for their father, Joseph accused them of being spies. Read this section carefully to find the other similarities.
My God bless you and bless the reading of His Word.
This portion details the ascent of Joseph from prison to the highest authority in the land of Egypt, besides Pharaoh. Ironically, dreams were the motivating factor in his brother's despicable act of selling him into slavery, yet it is the interpretation of dreams that pave the way for his release from prison and rise to prominence. These two sets of dreams complete the dream cycle in Joseph's life.
In the case of the wine steward and the baker, fellow prisoners with Joseph, he interprets their dreams and plants a seed in the mind of the wine steward that would later pay off in gaining his freedom. The dream of the baker is congruent with the first dream of Joseph in that it deals with grain related metaphors. It is also congruent with the second dream of Pharaoh had which used grain stalks as metaphors for plenty and famine.
The other three dreams are congruent, but in a less apparent way. Joseph's dream of the Sun, moon, and stars was symbolic of heavenly objects. The wine stewards dream of a vine and wine deals with "spirit" related metaphors. The dream of cows coming out of the Nile is symbolic of worshiped objects in Egypt. Thus, there is a common theme of spiritual matters in all three dreams.
These dreams also reveal the characteristics of Joseph that Pharaoh observed and rewarded. Joseph's dreams as a young lad spoke of his future leadership. The dreams of the prisoners spoke of his future wisdom. The dreams of Pharaoh spoke of his future management and planning skills. All of these coalesce in Joseph is a magnificent way to show the grace and perfection of the Lord and His protection of His chosen people through Jacob.
The first dream of Joseph - where the grain stalks bow down to him - is partially fulfilled when his brothers come to Egypt and have to bargain with Joseph (unknown to them) for food. In 42:6, the Bible states, "When they arrived, the bowed down before him with their faces to the ground." A careful reading of the interactions with his brothers reveal that Joseph tests them in ways very similar to the ways they mistreated him. For example, they threw Joseph in a pit, Joseph placed them in prison for three days. The brothers thought of Joseph as a spy for their father, Joseph accused them of being spies. Read this section carefully to find the other similarities.
My God bless you and bless the reading of His Word.
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
Genesis 36 - 39
Joseph, the Dreamer
This portion starts of with an extensive genealogy of Esau/Edom detailing many of his descendants. At this point, I am not certain exactly what this means. There is much in the Holy Bible that is like that. I will ponder and research this more fully as time permits.
In chapter 37 the Bible more fully introduces Joseph, the favored son of Jacob. The first series of 3 dream cycles are presented. The symbolism is metaphorical but easily understood. One has to do with sheaves of grain, symbolic of the twelve sons of Israel and Joseph's prophetic prominence over them. The other has to do with the Sun, moon, and stars symbolic of Jacob, Rachel, and the eleven sons, once again, subservient to Joseph. The grain sheaves are prophetic of the drastic drought conditions that compel Joseph's brothers to come to Egypt and implore Joseph, unknown to them, to provide relief. The other dream is prophetic of the entire clan coming to Egypt.
These two dreams are congruent with dreams the prisoners have that Joseph interprets and dreams that Pharoah has that Joseph interprets. I will comment on those in a future post.
Joseph is a near perfect type of Christ. Consider the following:
This portion starts of with an extensive genealogy of Esau/Edom detailing many of his descendants. At this point, I am not certain exactly what this means. There is much in the Holy Bible that is like that. I will ponder and research this more fully as time permits.
In chapter 37 the Bible more fully introduces Joseph, the favored son of Jacob. The first series of 3 dream cycles are presented. The symbolism is metaphorical but easily understood. One has to do with sheaves of grain, symbolic of the twelve sons of Israel and Joseph's prophetic prominence over them. The other has to do with the Sun, moon, and stars symbolic of Jacob, Rachel, and the eleven sons, once again, subservient to Joseph. The grain sheaves are prophetic of the drastic drought conditions that compel Joseph's brothers to come to Egypt and implore Joseph, unknown to them, to provide relief. The other dream is prophetic of the entire clan coming to Egypt.
These two dreams are congruent with dreams the prisoners have that Joseph interprets and dreams that Pharoah has that Joseph interprets. I will comment on those in a future post.
Joseph is a near perfect type of Christ. Consider the following:
- Joseph was rejected by his brothers, Jesus was rejected by His Jewish brothers
- Joseph wore a coat of many colors, the rainbow is a type of the covenant of Christ
- Joseph was a dreamer and a spiritual man, Christ saw visions and was spiritual
- Joseph was symbolically killed by his brother, and the was resurrected. Christ was killed on the cross and resurrected.
- There were two prisoners with Joseph in prison, one saved, the other lost. There were two men crucified with Christ, one saved, the other lost.
- Joseph ascended to the right hand of Pharoah. Christ ascended to the right hand of God.
May God bless you and bless the reading of His Word.
Genesis 32 - 35
Jacob's Return
Jacob's odyssey comes full circle when he leaves Laban to return to Canaan and face Esau. Two things stand out:
His prayer in 32:9-12 reflects his trepidation and desire for God's help, yet he still takes steps on his own to protect his own. He divides his household, thinking that Esau would not be able to attack it all.
His preparation for meeting Esau is meticulous in its detail. He sends herds of animals with specific deceptive instructions to the shepherds. He lines his family up in a specific order: Servant of Leah and her children, servant of Rachel and her children, Leah and her children, Rachel, then Joseph. This had to have worked against Joseph later on when his brothers were murderously jealous of him.
The actual meeting with Esau is anticlimatic, but even after it is clear that Esau has no harm in store for Jacob, and even after it is obvious that the Lord has answered Jacob's prayer, Jacob still reverts to his old deceptive ways in 33:17-19, telling Esau he will follow him to Seir, then traveling to Succoth instead.
As we will see later, Jacob reaps deception from his own sons for the deception he has sown.
May God bless you and bless the reading of His Word.
Jacob's odyssey comes full circle when he leaves Laban to return to Canaan and face Esau. Two things stand out:
- In spite of the promise of God's protection the Bible state in 32:7 "he was terrified" when learning that Esau was waiting with 400 men.
- His first step after being fearful was "He divided his household."
His prayer in 32:9-12 reflects his trepidation and desire for God's help, yet he still takes steps on his own to protect his own. He divides his household, thinking that Esau would not be able to attack it all.
His preparation for meeting Esau is meticulous in its detail. He sends herds of animals with specific deceptive instructions to the shepherds. He lines his family up in a specific order: Servant of Leah and her children, servant of Rachel and her children, Leah and her children, Rachel, then Joseph. This had to have worked against Joseph later on when his brothers were murderously jealous of him.
The actual meeting with Esau is anticlimatic, but even after it is clear that Esau has no harm in store for Jacob, and even after it is obvious that the Lord has answered Jacob's prayer, Jacob still reverts to his old deceptive ways in 33:17-19, telling Esau he will follow him to Seir, then traveling to Succoth instead.
As we will see later, Jacob reaps deception from his own sons for the deception he has sown.
May God bless you and bless the reading of His Word.
Monday, January 11, 2010
Genesis 28 - 31
Jacob's Faith
The saga of Jacob continues in today's portion. Jacob is admonished by his father Isaac to not marry a Canaanite women, but to marry someone from his family (28:1-2). Isaac was concerned about preserving the Godly lineage. Esau, in vss. 6-9, openly defies the wishes of Isaac and marries a woman from Ishmael's lineage, thus interbreeding the hatred for Israel that still manifests today, and confirming his defiant attitude.
Jacob was an arduous worker and a clever business man. His actions not only made him wealthy, but also were a financial blessing to Laban his father-in-law. In spite of Laban's treachery with Leah and Rachel, and with his flocks, Jacob showed nothing but grace to Laban. Perhaps because he was the recipient of grace from God.
When we look at the patriarchs we can see that Abraham represented election - God called him from a heathen society based on election alone. Isaac represented justification - God gave him his name even before he was born, he used Isaac to test Abraham's faith. Jacob reprensented grace - The grace of God in allowing him to obtain the birthright and blessing. The grace of God that allowed him to prosper, to face Esau when he returned to Canaan. The grace of God to provide him with 12 sons who became the tribes of Israel. And finally, Joseph represented perfection - as a perfect type of the life of Christ (more on this in a future posting).
In particular I feel that Christians can relate to Jacob. The struggles he had, the problems he created for himself, yet somehow through it all, by the grace of the Almighty he perservered.
The covenant between Jacob and Laban in 31:51-55 is revealing of Jacob's attitude towards God. In vs. 53 Laban pronounces the covenant in the "name of the God of Abraham, and the God of Nahor, the God of their father..." but Jacob swears by the God of Isaac (KJV). He did not know the faith of Nahor or Nahor's father. God called Abraham. Abraham begat Isaac and Jacob knew the faith of Isaac.
May God bless you and bless the reading of His Word.
The saga of Jacob continues in today's portion. Jacob is admonished by his father Isaac to not marry a Canaanite women, but to marry someone from his family (28:1-2). Isaac was concerned about preserving the Godly lineage. Esau, in vss. 6-9, openly defies the wishes of Isaac and marries a woman from Ishmael's lineage, thus interbreeding the hatred for Israel that still manifests today, and confirming his defiant attitude.
Jacob was an arduous worker and a clever business man. His actions not only made him wealthy, but also were a financial blessing to Laban his father-in-law. In spite of Laban's treachery with Leah and Rachel, and with his flocks, Jacob showed nothing but grace to Laban. Perhaps because he was the recipient of grace from God.
When we look at the patriarchs we can see that Abraham represented election - God called him from a heathen society based on election alone. Isaac represented justification - God gave him his name even before he was born, he used Isaac to test Abraham's faith. Jacob reprensented grace - The grace of God in allowing him to obtain the birthright and blessing. The grace of God that allowed him to prosper, to face Esau when he returned to Canaan. The grace of God to provide him with 12 sons who became the tribes of Israel. And finally, Joseph represented perfection - as a perfect type of the life of Christ (more on this in a future posting).
In particular I feel that Christians can relate to Jacob. The struggles he had, the problems he created for himself, yet somehow through it all, by the grace of the Almighty he perservered.
The covenant between Jacob and Laban in 31:51-55 is revealing of Jacob's attitude towards God. In vs. 53 Laban pronounces the covenant in the "name of the God of Abraham, and the God of Nahor, the God of their father..." but Jacob swears by the God of Isaac (KJV). He did not know the faith of Nahor or Nahor's father. God called Abraham. Abraham begat Isaac and Jacob knew the faith of Isaac.
May God bless you and bless the reading of His Word.
Sunday, January 10, 2010
Genesis 24 - 27
Twins
Esau and Jacob continue the theme of competing lineages started in Genesis 3 with Cain and Abel. The similarities are notable:
Esau and Jacob continue the theme of competing lineages started in Genesis 3 with Cain and Abel. The similarities are notable:
- Cain and Abel were twins with the same mother but different fathers.
- Esau and Jacob are twins with the same mother and father.
- Cain shows his disdain for the things of God by offering a sacrifice not pleasing to the Lord.
- Esau shows his disdain for his birthright by bartering it for a bowl of beans.
- Cain slays Abel - Esau swears that he will slay Jacob (27:41) after Jacob deceives Isaac and gets the blessing.
Esau was a man concerned only with worldly things. He had no regard for what was rightfully his by birth. He was an impatient man, prone to histrionics and exaggeration. In 25:29 Esau returns from hunting and is hungry and exhausted. Sensing his opportunity, Jacob has lentil stew cooking. Esau demands some even though it is not ready. In verse 30 he states "I'm starved! Give me some of that red stew!" Red - because the lentils were not fully cooked yet - the beans turn brown when fully cooked. When Jacob asks for "rights of the firstborn son" (vs 31), Esau rationalizes proclaiming "I am dying of starvation! What good is my birthright to me now?"
The pathetic state of Esau and his decision will haunt him to his death. He does not weigh the actions of the now to the consequences of tomorrow. Jacob realized the importance of the birthright from the womb, holding on to Esau at birth (25:26). He was willing to do whatever was necessary to receive the inheritance and blessings of God.
Chapter 25 also begins one of the more lengthy odysseys documented in the Bible - the life of Jacob. In fact, Jacob remains with us to the end of the book of Genesis. We will examine his life in subsequent portions.
-- PERSONAL NOTE
Saturday's portion marks the completion of one week of reading. I have found this process refreshing. Typically, when reading the Bible I will stay on one book for several weeks or even several months. The urge to read ahead was tough (to ease my pain, I am reading a Harmony of the Gospels) but I have disciplined myself to stick to the plan.
I have also found that blogging has helped me to focus more intently on the content. Knowing that I have to write about the reading portion each day has caused me to think about the details and formulate my understanding so that I can express it in written format.
I am interested in hearing from those who follow this blog and contrast my experience with yours.
May God bless you and bless the reading of His Word.
Saturday, January 9, 2010
Genesis 20 - 23
Return to Youth
There are several "nuggets" in today's portion that really speak to me. First, Abraham and Sarah travel to Gerar and Abraham employs a ruse (20:2) he had used earlier when they were young - presenting Sarah as his "sister" (12:11) because she was beautiful to look on. Why would Abraham be concerned about his ninety year old wife to the point that he orders her to tell Abimelech's people she is his sister?
The Bible stated (17:17) that she was well past child bearing age and she and Abraham laughed when the Lord reiterated his promise to bring a son by Sarah. To me there is only one explanation: God renewed their youth! He turned the bodies back to a younger age. Think about it. When He confirms his promise in 17:1 the Lord presents Himself as El-Shaddai - The Almighty Breasted God. The Lord Who supplies strength and nourishment to His children. Next, how could Sarah go through the pangs and rigors of childbirth at 90? Her womb was closed and she was well past menopause. Her milk veins had dried up. Then we have Abraham's concern when they visit Gerar. She and he must have returned to their youth!
This portion provides another remarkable example of Abraham's incredible faith. After Isaac is born and reaches the age of approximately 17 years the Lord orders Abraham to sacrifice Isaac (22:1-2). Now what would you do in these circumstances? Hesitate? Question God? Refuse to obey? Spiritualize the dictum of God? Not Abraham!!!
Early the next morning, he gets Isaac and takes the fastest mode of transportation available to him (a donkey) and immediately sets out to do God's bidding. No questions, no reasoning, no doubt. Compare this to when Abraham was told that Sodom and Gomorrah would be destroyed. He bargained with God down to 10 righteous souls, but his only son he does not bargain for his life? To me this is incredible. So sure was Abraham that the Lord would preserve Isaac that he confesses in 22:5 to his servants, "The boy and I will travel a little farther. We will worship there, then we will come right back." We shall return!!! Lord, grant me that kind of faith.
Chapter 22 is remarkable in another way. In verses 7 and 8 we have the only recorded conversation in all of scripture between Abraham and Isaac. That's it, nothing else. The dearth of dialog between these two crucial characters in the Bible is astounding.
In chapter 23, we learn of Sarah's death. This is critical because it provides the evidence that Abraham and his descendants are the legal owners of land in Canaan near Mamre (23:17-20). The NLT states, "It was transferred to Abraham as his permanent possession in the presence of Hittite elders at the city gate." This, and all of Israel, was promised to Abraham and his seed through Isaac forever. May God bless Israel.
God bless you and bless the reading of His Word.
There are several "nuggets" in today's portion that really speak to me. First, Abraham and Sarah travel to Gerar and Abraham employs a ruse (20:2) he had used earlier when they were young - presenting Sarah as his "sister" (12:11) because she was beautiful to look on. Why would Abraham be concerned about his ninety year old wife to the point that he orders her to tell Abimelech's people she is his sister?
The Bible stated (17:17) that she was well past child bearing age and she and Abraham laughed when the Lord reiterated his promise to bring a son by Sarah. To me there is only one explanation: God renewed their youth! He turned the bodies back to a younger age. Think about it. When He confirms his promise in 17:1 the Lord presents Himself as El-Shaddai - The Almighty Breasted God. The Lord Who supplies strength and nourishment to His children. Next, how could Sarah go through the pangs and rigors of childbirth at 90? Her womb was closed and she was well past menopause. Her milk veins had dried up. Then we have Abraham's concern when they visit Gerar. She and he must have returned to their youth!
This portion provides another remarkable example of Abraham's incredible faith. After Isaac is born and reaches the age of approximately 17 years the Lord orders Abraham to sacrifice Isaac (22:1-2). Now what would you do in these circumstances? Hesitate? Question God? Refuse to obey? Spiritualize the dictum of God? Not Abraham!!!
Early the next morning, he gets Isaac and takes the fastest mode of transportation available to him (a donkey) and immediately sets out to do God's bidding. No questions, no reasoning, no doubt. Compare this to when Abraham was told that Sodom and Gomorrah would be destroyed. He bargained with God down to 10 righteous souls, but his only son he does not bargain for his life? To me this is incredible. So sure was Abraham that the Lord would preserve Isaac that he confesses in 22:5 to his servants, "The boy and I will travel a little farther. We will worship there, then we will come right back." We shall return!!! Lord, grant me that kind of faith.
Chapter 22 is remarkable in another way. In verses 7 and 8 we have the only recorded conversation in all of scripture between Abraham and Isaac. That's it, nothing else. The dearth of dialog between these two crucial characters in the Bible is astounding.
In chapter 23, we learn of Sarah's death. This is critical because it provides the evidence that Abraham and his descendants are the legal owners of land in Canaan near Mamre (23:17-20). The NLT states, "It was transferred to Abraham as his permanent possession in the presence of Hittite elders at the city gate." This, and all of Israel, was promised to Abraham and his seed through Isaac forever. May God bless Israel.
God bless you and bless the reading of His Word.
Friday, January 8, 2010
Genesis 16 -19
The Burden of Relatives
Today's portion introduces another character, Ishmael, that highlights and perpetuates the dichotomy of lineages that began in Genesis 3 with the birth of Cain. Even the Lord testifies (16:12) that Ishmael with be a "wild man" A man "whose hand will be against every man." Because of Abram's and Sarai's impatience, they have burdened the descendants of Isaac, the promised seed (17:19) with the descendants of Ishmael even to this day.
In spite of Abram's blantant disobedience, the Lord takes the necessary steps to ensure His plan moves forward with the requisite celerity. The Lord even visits Abraham and Sarah in the plains of Mamre to confirm His promise (chapter 18) telling them that they will receive the promised son within a year.
The setting and reaction of Abraham to the three angels is in stark contrast to the setting and reaction of backslidden Lot in Sodom when confronted with the two angels. First, Abraham is setting in the door of his tent in the heat of the day (18:1). He was expecting something. He was ready to entertain visitors.
The Bible plainly states that he saw "three men", yet his greeting is not what one would logically surmise. In 18:3 the Bible (NLT) states, "'My lord,' he said, 'if it pleases you, stop here for a while.'" My Lord (singular) even though there were three men. Abraham knew that one of the men was deity in flesh. He wanted them to stop. He wanted to entertain them, feed them, and fellowship with them. He immediately had Sarah begin preparing a meal. Because of his actions and where he was, the Lord was able to bless him and Sarah. In verse 22 we see that the Lord was so pleased to be with Abraham that, "The two other men went on toward Sodom, but the LORD remained with Abraham for a while."
Lot, on the other hand, was setting in the gate of Sodom, busy with political matters. He was concerned about his wealth, his wife, his standing in the community. While he was hospitable to the two visitors, he was also keenly aware of the wickedness of Sodom (19:3). Why would a person remain in such a wicked environment unless he had decided that the monetary gain out-weighed his spiritual well being? Lot was so attached to this place that the angels had to literally manhandle Lot and his family from Sodom before the destruction could begin (19:16). This is one of the most dramatic displays of God's grace to a backslider in the Bible.
Despite their best efforts, Lot's wife could not give up her existence and paid for it with her life (19:26). The wickedness of that environment had so inculcated his family that his daughters commited incest with their father to have children, both of which, proved to be problems for Israel in the generations to come. Had Abram fully obeyed God back in 12:1-4, this could have been avoided.
Our lesson from this portion is a reiteration of yesterday's - that we must be willing to forsake all to follow the Lord.
May God bless you and bless the reading of His Word.
Today's portion introduces another character, Ishmael, that highlights and perpetuates the dichotomy of lineages that began in Genesis 3 with the birth of Cain. Even the Lord testifies (16:12) that Ishmael with be a "wild man" A man "whose hand will be against every man." Because of Abram's and Sarai's impatience, they have burdened the descendants of Isaac, the promised seed (17:19) with the descendants of Ishmael even to this day.
In spite of Abram's blantant disobedience, the Lord takes the necessary steps to ensure His plan moves forward with the requisite celerity. The Lord even visits Abraham and Sarah in the plains of Mamre to confirm His promise (chapter 18) telling them that they will receive the promised son within a year.
The setting and reaction of Abraham to the three angels is in stark contrast to the setting and reaction of backslidden Lot in Sodom when confronted with the two angels. First, Abraham is setting in the door of his tent in the heat of the day (18:1). He was expecting something. He was ready to entertain visitors.
The Bible plainly states that he saw "three men", yet his greeting is not what one would logically surmise. In 18:3 the Bible (NLT) states, "'My lord,' he said, 'if it pleases you, stop here for a while.'" My Lord (singular) even though there were three men. Abraham knew that one of the men was deity in flesh. He wanted them to stop. He wanted to entertain them, feed them, and fellowship with them. He immediately had Sarah begin preparing a meal. Because of his actions and where he was, the Lord was able to bless him and Sarah. In verse 22 we see that the Lord was so pleased to be with Abraham that, "The two other men went on toward Sodom, but the LORD remained with Abraham for a while."
Lot, on the other hand, was setting in the gate of Sodom, busy with political matters. He was concerned about his wealth, his wife, his standing in the community. While he was hospitable to the two visitors, he was also keenly aware of the wickedness of Sodom (19:3). Why would a person remain in such a wicked environment unless he had decided that the monetary gain out-weighed his spiritual well being? Lot was so attached to this place that the angels had to literally manhandle Lot and his family from Sodom before the destruction could begin (19:16). This is one of the most dramatic displays of God's grace to a backslider in the Bible.
Despite their best efforts, Lot's wife could not give up her existence and paid for it with her life (19:26). The wickedness of that environment had so inculcated his family that his daughters commited incest with their father to have children, both of which, proved to be problems for Israel in the generations to come. Had Abram fully obeyed God back in 12:1-4, this could have been avoided.
Our lesson from this portion is a reiteration of yesterday's - that we must be willing to forsake all to follow the Lord.
May God bless you and bless the reading of His Word.
Thursday, January 7, 2010
Genesis 12 -15
Why Abram?
Why did God choose Abram? His ancestry was no more remarkable than any other men of that day. He did not follow the Lord's instructions to the letter. In 12:1 the Lord tells Abram to "leave you native country, your relatives, and your father's family..." yet verse 2 states, "So Abram departed as the Lord had instructed, and Lot went with him." (emphasis mine) - a clear disregard for the Lord's instructions. Even after they were forced out of Egypt in 12:17 (because Abram had Sarai lie!!!) he still took Lot with him (13:1). This proved to be a hindrance (13:5-7).
This portion of scripture demonstrates to me the sovereignty of God. He does what He pleases, when He pleases, to whom He pleases. Abram was not better than any other person. He did not walk with God like Enoch, nor was he perfect in his generations like Noah. We see in 15:6 what the Lord already knew, "And Abram believed the Lord, and the Lord counted him as righteous because of his faith." Faith. The gift from God to believe God. Is not that the only thing we can do? Simply manifest faith in God?
We make mistakes. God leads us in one direction and we go another. We lie. We ask others to lie, to cover our mistakes. We don't leave everything behind or give up all our worldly ways. Yet the Lord still loves us, guides us, and protects us when we manifest faith in Him.
I particulary like the beginning of this portion. The promises God makes to Abram are robust and long reaching. In 12:1 - 3 the following is promised to Abram:
May God bless you and bless the reading of His Word.
Why did God choose Abram? His ancestry was no more remarkable than any other men of that day. He did not follow the Lord's instructions to the letter. In 12:1 the Lord tells Abram to "leave you native country, your relatives, and your father's family..." yet verse 2 states, "So Abram departed as the Lord had instructed, and Lot went with him." (emphasis mine) - a clear disregard for the Lord's instructions. Even after they were forced out of Egypt in 12:17 (because Abram had Sarai lie!!!) he still took Lot with him (13:1). This proved to be a hindrance (13:5-7).
This portion of scripture demonstrates to me the sovereignty of God. He does what He pleases, when He pleases, to whom He pleases. Abram was not better than any other person. He did not walk with God like Enoch, nor was he perfect in his generations like Noah. We see in 15:6 what the Lord already knew, "And Abram believed the Lord, and the Lord counted him as righteous because of his faith." Faith. The gift from God to believe God. Is not that the only thing we can do? Simply manifest faith in God?
We make mistakes. God leads us in one direction and we go another. We lie. We ask others to lie, to cover our mistakes. We don't leave everything behind or give up all our worldly ways. Yet the Lord still loves us, guides us, and protects us when we manifest faith in Him.
I particulary like the beginning of this portion. The promises God makes to Abram are robust and long reaching. In 12:1 - 3 the following is promised to Abram:
- I will show you a land
- I will make you a great nation
- I will bless you
- You will be a blessing to others
- You will have a great name
- Those who bless you will be blessed
- Those who curse you will be cursed
- In you will all families of the Earth be blessed
May God bless you and bless the reading of His Word.
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
Genesis 8 - 11
The Flood
This portion describes in unusual detail, the events of the Flood, even to the point of how long it took the ground to dry. Additionally, the transition from two distinct lineages (Adam and Cain) to multiple peoples is described when the genealogies of Noah's sons - Shem, Ham, and Japheth, are documented (chapter 10). We learn that Noah, his family, and all the earthbound creatures were water borne for exactly five months. The Ark rested an additional two and a half months before other mountain peaks began to appear (8:1). From the scripture we can calculate that they were on the Ark 12.5 months.
Like creation, this began a second genesis, a new time of beginning. The wording the Lord uses is very similar, "Be fruitful and multiply" (8:17 and 9:1) to what he commanded Adam in 1:22. God also gave stern warnings concerning the killing of humans stating that it is a capital offense, i.e. blood for blood (9:5). Wickedness caused the judgment of the flood, and yet after the flood, wickedness still existed.
One of Noah's sons (Ham) sees his father drunk and naked. Instead of covering his father's shame, he tells his brothers. These brothers do the morally correct act and cover their father and carefully avoid seeing him. Because of the wickedness in Ham's heart, his lineage is cursed to serve the other brothers (9:25-27).
I have often wondered why Noah did not curse Ham directly and instead cursed his son Canaan who apparently did nothing wrong concerning Noah. But this exemplifies the concept of how our actions as parents can have long lasting and devastating effects on our children and generations to come. We must carefully weigh our actions and words.
May God bless you and bless the reading of His Word.
This portion describes in unusual detail, the events of the Flood, even to the point of how long it took the ground to dry. Additionally, the transition from two distinct lineages (Adam and Cain) to multiple peoples is described when the genealogies of Noah's sons - Shem, Ham, and Japheth, are documented (chapter 10). We learn that Noah, his family, and all the earthbound creatures were water borne for exactly five months. The Ark rested an additional two and a half months before other mountain peaks began to appear (8:1). From the scripture we can calculate that they were on the Ark 12.5 months.
Like creation, this began a second genesis, a new time of beginning. The wording the Lord uses is very similar, "Be fruitful and multiply" (8:17 and 9:1) to what he commanded Adam in 1:22. God also gave stern warnings concerning the killing of humans stating that it is a capital offense, i.e. blood for blood (9:5). Wickedness caused the judgment of the flood, and yet after the flood, wickedness still existed.
One of Noah's sons (Ham) sees his father drunk and naked. Instead of covering his father's shame, he tells his brothers. These brothers do the morally correct act and cover their father and carefully avoid seeing him. Because of the wickedness in Ham's heart, his lineage is cursed to serve the other brothers (9:25-27).
I have often wondered why Noah did not curse Ham directly and instead cursed his son Canaan who apparently did nothing wrong concerning Noah. But this exemplifies the concept of how our actions as parents can have long lasting and devastating effects on our children and generations to come. We must carefully weigh our actions and words.
May God bless you and bless the reading of His Word.
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
Genesis 4 - 7
Two Lineages
In this portion, the Bible introduces more characters-enough to the point that two genealogies are provided: one for Cain's lineage (4:17-22) and one for Adam's lineage (chapter 5). The contrast between these two lines is striking, showing a clear difference in attitudes and practices. Based on this and other scriptures, it is clear that Cain was not Adam's son.
Several interesting things stand out:
In this portion, the Bible introduces more characters-enough to the point that two genealogies are provided: one for Cain's lineage (4:17-22) and one for Adam's lineage (chapter 5). The contrast between these two lines is striking, showing a clear difference in attitudes and practices. Based on this and other scriptures, it is clear that Cain was not Adam's son.
Several interesting things stand out:
- Cain is a murder (4:8)
- Cain's descendant, Lamech - the fifth from Cain, was a murderer (4:23)
- Cain did not dwell in the presence of the Lord (4:16)
- Cain's descendant, Lamech, was the first person to practice polygamy (4:19)
- After Seth's son, Enosh, is born, then men begin to worship God together (4:26)
- Adam descendant, Enoch - the sixth from Adam, fifth from Seth, lived so close to the Lord that he was translated from the Earth to God's presence (5:24)
- Noah, the 10th from Adam, was the only person on Earth who found favor with God (6:8). His relationship with God is describe as perfect or blameless (6:9)
Like the first portion, Genesis 4 -7 covers a tremendous span of time and provides a relatively small amount of historical detail. My calculations indicate that a period of over 2000 years is covered from the creation of Adam to the death of Noah. Yet, the Bible provides exquisite details on the construction of the Ark and the event of the flood, thus the information pertinent to the plan of God for mankind is presented.
May God bless you and bless the reading of His Word.
Monday, January 4, 2010
Genesis 1 - 3
It Is Not Good
Genesis is my favorite book in the Bible. Every time I read it, I am amazed at the economy of words used to described the Creation. In a mere 33 verses everything we, as humans (and including humans!), exist in and with is created, formed, and ordered. It only takes 19 verses (in Chapter 3) for humanity to fall into sin and lose their existence in God's perfect world. In one verse (3:21) God sets the pattern for redemption by blood - a crucial tenet of Christianity and an Old Testament type of Jesus' sacrifice on Calvary.
I have read Genesis countless times and almost everytime I read it, something new jumps out at me. This time it was Genesis 2:18 which in the NLT states, "And the LORD God said, 'It is not good...'" Up to this verse everything was good. In Genesis 1 verses 4, 10, 12, 18, 21, and 25 the Lord saw that is was good. After the creation of Man in verse 27, God declares in verse 31 "he saw that it was excellent" (some translations say "very good"). So why does the Lord state 18 verses later, that it was not good?
The irony and relatively close juxtaposition of these statements should not be lost on the reader. After the creation we have no choice but to believe that everything in the universe was perfect. There was no death, no sin, no disease, no ill-feeling, no tension, no pain, nothing negative. Only the glory and majesty of the Almighty was felt and experienced. Man had no needs that were not supplied. Yet, when Adam reviewed and named all the creatures of God's magnificent work (2:19-30), there was something within him that yearned for more intimate companionship.
To me the "it was not good" statement had a prophetic element. It was not good that Man did not have Woman. But, as we find out in chapter 3, it went from "not good" to catastrophic. Humanity succumbed to sin and lost their state of perfection and were banished from God's garden.
In 79 verses of scripture the Bible describes the creation, the formation, the ordering, and the fall of the Earth and Mankind. This is incredible! Thankfully, the last verse of this reading provides a ray of hope:
Genesis 3:24
After banishing them from the garden, the LORD God stationed mighty angelic beings to the east of Eden. And a flaming sword flashed back and forth, guarding the way to the tree of life.
He has His "mighty angels" (the ministry) with a "flaming sword" (the living, conquering Word of God) "guard the way" (His salvation plan) to the "tree of life" (eternal life with Jesus).
May God bless you and bless the reading of His Word.
Genesis is my favorite book in the Bible. Every time I read it, I am amazed at the economy of words used to described the Creation. In a mere 33 verses everything we, as humans (and including humans!), exist in and with is created, formed, and ordered. It only takes 19 verses (in Chapter 3) for humanity to fall into sin and lose their existence in God's perfect world. In one verse (3:21) God sets the pattern for redemption by blood - a crucial tenet of Christianity and an Old Testament type of Jesus' sacrifice on Calvary.
I have read Genesis countless times and almost everytime I read it, something new jumps out at me. This time it was Genesis 2:18 which in the NLT states, "And the LORD God said, 'It is not good...'" Up to this verse everything was good. In Genesis 1 verses 4, 10, 12, 18, 21, and 25 the Lord saw that is was good. After the creation of Man in verse 27, God declares in verse 31 "he saw that it was excellent" (some translations say "very good"). So why does the Lord state 18 verses later, that it was not good?
The irony and relatively close juxtaposition of these statements should not be lost on the reader. After the creation we have no choice but to believe that everything in the universe was perfect. There was no death, no sin, no disease, no ill-feeling, no tension, no pain, nothing negative. Only the glory and majesty of the Almighty was felt and experienced. Man had no needs that were not supplied. Yet, when Adam reviewed and named all the creatures of God's magnificent work (2:19-30), there was something within him that yearned for more intimate companionship.
To me the "it was not good" statement had a prophetic element. It was not good that Man did not have Woman. But, as we find out in chapter 3, it went from "not good" to catastrophic. Humanity succumbed to sin and lost their state of perfection and were banished from God's garden.
In 79 verses of scripture the Bible describes the creation, the formation, the ordering, and the fall of the Earth and Mankind. This is incredible! Thankfully, the last verse of this reading provides a ray of hope:
Genesis 3:24
After banishing them from the garden, the LORD God stationed mighty angelic beings to the east of Eden. And a flaming sword flashed back and forth, guarding the way to the tree of life.
He has His "mighty angels" (the ministry) with a "flaming sword" (the living, conquering Word of God) "guard the way" (His salvation plan) to the "tree of life" (eternal life with Jesus).
May God bless you and bless the reading of His Word.
Getting started
The inspiration for this occured several years ago but, until now, I have not had the motivation to undertake this project. I read the Bible every day, and have read it in its entirety numerous times. However, I have never read it completely in one year and I have never blogged about reading the Bible, or anything else for that matter.
There exists plenty of websites/blogs for the readers who want to discuss and comment on Bible subjects. This blog will discuss the reading experience itself and not focus on doctrine, theology, eschatology, etc. The intent is not to generate lengthy and argumentative discusssions on doctrinal issues rather I hope that everyone reading this will develop a passion for the Bible, God's infallible Word.
I invite all readers to join me in this process. I have included a link (on the right) to the spreadsheet on Google Docs for those who are interested.
There exists plenty of websites/blogs for the readers who want to discuss and comment on Bible subjects. This blog will discuss the reading experience itself and not focus on doctrine, theology, eschatology, etc. The intent is not to generate lengthy and argumentative discusssions on doctrinal issues rather I hope that everyone reading this will develop a passion for the Bible, God's infallible Word.
I invite all readers to join me in this process. I have included a link (on the right) to the spreadsheet on Google Docs for those who are interested.
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