Jerusalem Falls
All of the prophecies of Jeremiah concerning the destruction of Jerusalem and Judah and the capture and exile of the people to Babylon begin to come true in the chapters of today's readings. What is remarkable is how that King Zedekiah kept hoping against God that the prophecy was not true. Because he did not heed Jeremiah's warnings to surrender to the Babylonians, he came to an ignominious end.
Jeremiah was treated horribly by the leaders of Jerusalem up to the time that the city was captured. The king of Babylon instructed his army to find and set Jeremiah free and to treat him with great respect and allow no harm to come to him. The irony is that the enemy of Jerusalem treated the prophet better than the people did.
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Monday, November 29, 2010
Jeremiah 32 - 36
Writing the Word of God
Chapter 36 of today's reading give us a good insight into how the Lord protects and preserves His Word. Jeremiah was the prophet to Judah and Israel just prior to the fall of Jerusalem and the destruction of Jerusalem, Judah, and Israel. He had prophesied many times that this would happen and that the people would go into exile. The Lord had Jeremiah call Baruch and dictate to him all the prophecies the Lord had given through His prophet.
Jeremiah dictated and Baruch wrote them all in a scroll. He then read the scroll in the temple and later to the king Jehoiakim. This king was so disturbed by the prophecy that he cut away the columns as they were read and burned them in the fire place. This was against the protestations of his advisors. Because of his wicked act, the Lord promised that he would die in infamy and shame and that none of his sons would serve as kings.
The Lord then had Jeremiah dictate to Baruch again and this time the scroll was preserved.
Chapter 36 of today's reading give us a good insight into how the Lord protects and preserves His Word. Jeremiah was the prophet to Judah and Israel just prior to the fall of Jerusalem and the destruction of Jerusalem, Judah, and Israel. He had prophesied many times that this would happen and that the people would go into exile. The Lord had Jeremiah call Baruch and dictate to him all the prophecies the Lord had given through His prophet.
Jeremiah dictated and Baruch wrote them all in a scroll. He then read the scroll in the temple and later to the king Jehoiakim. This king was so disturbed by the prophecy that he cut away the columns as they were read and burned them in the fire place. This was against the protestations of his advisors. Because of his wicked act, the Lord promised that he would die in infamy and shame and that none of his sons would serve as kings.
The Lord then had Jeremiah dictate to Baruch again and this time the scroll was preserved.
Jeremiah 27 - 31
A Tremendous Promise
Note: This was posted a day late
Chapter 29 carries a promise to those who will be exiled in Babylon for 70 years. Jeremiah prophesies the captivity and exile in chapter 25. Because the people of Israel and Judah refused to hear their prophets and continued in their idol worship, the Lord promised destruction of Israel and Jerusalem, and exile in Babylon.
The message is ominous. "This entire land will become a desolate wasteland. Israel and her neighboring lands will serve the king of Babylon for seventy years. Then after the seventy years of captivity are over, I will punish the king of Babylon and his people for their sins." (25:11-12).
Then in chapter 29, Jeremiah makes this promise: "You will be in Babylon for seventy years. But then I will come and do for you all the good things I have promised, and I will bring you home again. For I know the palns I have for you, says the Lord. They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. In those days, when you pray I will listen." (10-12). This is a tremendous promise of delivery and restoration. God preserved a remnant and the land of Israel for His name's sake.
Note: This was posted a day late
Chapter 29 carries a promise to those who will be exiled in Babylon for 70 years. Jeremiah prophesies the captivity and exile in chapter 25. Because the people of Israel and Judah refused to hear their prophets and continued in their idol worship, the Lord promised destruction of Israel and Jerusalem, and exile in Babylon.
The message is ominous. "This entire land will become a desolate wasteland. Israel and her neighboring lands will serve the king of Babylon for seventy years. Then after the seventy years of captivity are over, I will punish the king of Babylon and his people for their sins." (25:11-12).
Then in chapter 29, Jeremiah makes this promise: "You will be in Babylon for seventy years. But then I will come and do for you all the good things I have promised, and I will bring you home again. For I know the palns I have for you, says the Lord. They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. In those days, when you pray I will listen." (10-12). This is a tremendous promise of delivery and restoration. God preserved a remnant and the land of Israel for His name's sake.
Sunday, November 28, 2010
Jeremiah 22 - 26
Drink From This Cup
Note: This is posted a day late
The Bible is full of symbols and symbolism and Jeremiah is no exception. I find it remarkable that the sovereign Lord, who can do what He pleases, how He pleases, chooses to manifest His grace by having man participate in His plan. Many places in the Bible, the Lord has someone do something symbolic before the actual event takes place. In the more abstract analysis, much of the Old Testament is a Biblical type of what occurs in the new testament.
In chapter 25, the Lord tells Jeremiah, "Take from my hand this cup filled to the brim with my anger, and make all the nations to whom I send you drink from it. When they drink from it, they will stagger, crazed by the warfare I will send against them." (v.15-16) This symbolic act of Jeremiah foreshadowed the destruction of Israel and Jerusalem and the 70 year exile Jeremiah speaks of earlier in the chapter (v.11-12) which Daniel speaks about in chapter 9 of his book.
Jeremiah makes all the nations drink from the cup, from Egypt to Babylon. This sets in motion the event which ultimately come to pass in the years that occurred after the prophecy. All the nations listed are nations that persecuted Israel and Judah over which the Lord did not leave them unpunished.
Note: This is posted a day late
The Bible is full of symbols and symbolism and Jeremiah is no exception. I find it remarkable that the sovereign Lord, who can do what He pleases, how He pleases, chooses to manifest His grace by having man participate in His plan. Many places in the Bible, the Lord has someone do something symbolic before the actual event takes place. In the more abstract analysis, much of the Old Testament is a Biblical type of what occurs in the new testament.
In chapter 25, the Lord tells Jeremiah, "Take from my hand this cup filled to the brim with my anger, and make all the nations to whom I send you drink from it. When they drink from it, they will stagger, crazed by the warfare I will send against them." (v.15-16) This symbolic act of Jeremiah foreshadowed the destruction of Israel and Jerusalem and the 70 year exile Jeremiah speaks of earlier in the chapter (v.11-12) which Daniel speaks about in chapter 9 of his book.
Jeremiah makes all the nations drink from the cup, from Egypt to Babylon. This sets in motion the event which ultimately come to pass in the years that occurred after the prophecy. All the nations listed are nations that persecuted Israel and Judah over which the Lord did not leave them unpunished.
Friday, November 26, 2010
Jeremiah 17 -21
No Deliverance
These chapters of Jeremiah continue the ominous prophecies of destruction and exile and Israel and Judah. In chapter 18, the Lord has Jacob observe a potter with clay. When the clay does not conform to the potter's wishes, the figure being created is smashed and the potter starts over. Thus, if the Lord is not happy with a people or nation, he destroys it and starts over.
In chapter 19, the Lord again users clay - this time a clay pot - and has Jeremiah take a clay potter to the valley of Bin-Hinnom, to a place where broken pots are discarded. The Lord has Jeremiah destroy the pot and then has him prophesy the destruction of Jerusalem and Judah stating, "I will shatter the people of Judah and Jerusalem beyond all hope or repair. They will bury the bodies here in Topheth, the garbage dump, until there is no more room for them." (19:11).
In chapter 20, a temple priest hears Jeremiah's prophecy and has him arrested and beaten. This seals the fate of Pashur and death is prophesied for him and his family. In chapter 21, King Zedekiah sent Pashur to speak with Jeremiah and ask the prophet to intercede on behalf of Judah since King Nebuchadnezzar is laying siege to the city of Jerusalem. The Lord's reply through Jeremiah is harsh. "I will make your weapons useless against the king of Babylon [...] I myself will fight against you with a strong hand..." (21:4-5). All of this because the people wickedly served other Gods and did not repent.
These chapters of Jeremiah continue the ominous prophecies of destruction and exile and Israel and Judah. In chapter 18, the Lord has Jacob observe a potter with clay. When the clay does not conform to the potter's wishes, the figure being created is smashed and the potter starts over. Thus, if the Lord is not happy with a people or nation, he destroys it and starts over.
In chapter 19, the Lord again users clay - this time a clay pot - and has Jeremiah take a clay potter to the valley of Bin-Hinnom, to a place where broken pots are discarded. The Lord has Jeremiah destroy the pot and then has him prophesy the destruction of Jerusalem and Judah stating, "I will shatter the people of Judah and Jerusalem beyond all hope or repair. They will bury the bodies here in Topheth, the garbage dump, until there is no more room for them." (19:11).
In chapter 20, a temple priest hears Jeremiah's prophecy and has him arrested and beaten. This seals the fate of Pashur and death is prophesied for him and his family. In chapter 21, King Zedekiah sent Pashur to speak with Jeremiah and ask the prophet to intercede on behalf of Judah since King Nebuchadnezzar is laying siege to the city of Jerusalem. The Lord's reply through Jeremiah is harsh. "I will make your weapons useless against the king of Babylon [...] I myself will fight against you with a strong hand..." (21:4-5). All of this because the people wickedly served other Gods and did not repent.
Thursday, November 25, 2010
Jeremiah 12 - 16
Complete Rejection
The series of prophecies in today's reading leave no doubt that the Lord had utterly and completely rejected Judah and Jerusalem. Because the non-stop worship of idols and other God's, the Lord will no longer hear the cries of the people. Their fasts, their offerings, their pleas will all fall on deaf ears. (14:11).
Chapter 12 is one of the saddest chapters in all of Jeremiah's book (possibly in all the Bible), because the Lord declares His abandonment of His people (12:7). He will no longer protect them. They planted wheat but will harvest thorns. They will only harvest a crop of shame (12:13).
Chapter 15 also contains an ominous prophecy. The Lord declares four kinds of destroyers against the sinful people: The sword, the dog, the vulture, and wild animals. All because of the wickedness of Manasseh (15:3-4). The sword will kill, the dog will drag away, the vulture will devour the flesh, and the wild animals will devour what is left. The imagery is unimaginable, but the ways of sin and the denial and mockery of God only lead to utter destruction.
Chapter 16 also contains more prophecies and declarations of destruction, but does end with a slight ray of hope, and a hint of restoration. Verse 15 has this, "I will bring them back to this land that I gave their ancestors." So even if the destruction of the wicked is unabated, the Lord still will restore Israel and Jerusalem. Praise Him for His Mercy.
The series of prophecies in today's reading leave no doubt that the Lord had utterly and completely rejected Judah and Jerusalem. Because the non-stop worship of idols and other God's, the Lord will no longer hear the cries of the people. Their fasts, their offerings, their pleas will all fall on deaf ears. (14:11).
Chapter 12 is one of the saddest chapters in all of Jeremiah's book (possibly in all the Bible), because the Lord declares His abandonment of His people (12:7). He will no longer protect them. They planted wheat but will harvest thorns. They will only harvest a crop of shame (12:13).
Chapter 15 also contains an ominous prophecy. The Lord declares four kinds of destroyers against the sinful people: The sword, the dog, the vulture, and wild animals. All because of the wickedness of Manasseh (15:3-4). The sword will kill, the dog will drag away, the vulture will devour the flesh, and the wild animals will devour what is left. The imagery is unimaginable, but the ways of sin and the denial and mockery of God only lead to utter destruction.
Chapter 16 also contains more prophecies and declarations of destruction, but does end with a slight ray of hope, and a hint of restoration. Verse 15 has this, "I will bring them back to this land that I gave their ancestors." So even if the destruction of the wicked is unabated, the Lord still will restore Israel and Jerusalem. Praise Him for His Mercy.
Jeremiah 7 - 11
Mind, Might, Money
Jeremiah is a difficult book to read. It is almost a continual declaration of judgment against Israel and Judah for the wickedness and sin to which they had fallen under the godless succession of kings. One king would make an effort to correct the people, but not completely obey all of the covenant, and then his son would become king and undo all the good the previous king had attempted. For this, the Lord declared and prophesied horrific judgment and exile - which ultimately came to pass.
Tucked in among all of this is a gem of a scripture, Jeremiah 9:23-24. I prefer the lyrical prose of the King James Version for this particular reading. "Thus saith the Lord, Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom, neither let the mighty man glory in his might, let not the rich man glory in his riches: But let him that glorieth, glory in this: that he understandeth and knoweth me, that I am the Lord that exercise lovingkindness, judgment and righteousness, in the earth: for in these things I delight, saith the Lord."
Notice, the Lord leaves no question that it is He who speaks by bookending the verses the "Thus saith the Lord, ..., saith the Lord." The Lord lists three things that men always boast about: his mind, his might, his money. But the Lord takes no delight, no pleasure in these things. None of these glorify God, they only point to what a man does for himself.
The verse details what the Lord does delight in: Man's understanding and knowledge of the Lord. Irrespective of a persons wealth, and mental capacity, and power, it is only the knowledge and understanding a person has of the Lord that is relevant. If all the other pass away to nothing, a person's intimate relationship with God endures. For a Christian, this means the in-dwelling of the Holy Spirit, God fully manifesting Himself through humans.
For each of the three things man boasts of, God provides an answer: lovingkindess, judgment, righteousness. God's love replaces man's mind - his wisdom. 1 Corinthians 13:2 declares (paraphrasing), if I have all knowledge and have not love, I am nothing. God's judgment replaces man's might - his power and ability. A man without discernment of God's will is helpless regardless of his strength or ability (see Hebrews 5:14). It is the righteousness of God that replaces man's money - his wealth, his transactional power. A man with the holiness and righteousness of God is far richer than any billionaire without God (see Matthew 6:19).
Thus, among the prophecies of doom and destruction, God permits Jeremiah to write a key to delighting the Lord. Let us glory in our knowledge of Him!
Jeremiah is a difficult book to read. It is almost a continual declaration of judgment against Israel and Judah for the wickedness and sin to which they had fallen under the godless succession of kings. One king would make an effort to correct the people, but not completely obey all of the covenant, and then his son would become king and undo all the good the previous king had attempted. For this, the Lord declared and prophesied horrific judgment and exile - which ultimately came to pass.
Tucked in among all of this is a gem of a scripture, Jeremiah 9:23-24. I prefer the lyrical prose of the King James Version for this particular reading. "Thus saith the Lord, Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom, neither let the mighty man glory in his might, let not the rich man glory in his riches: But let him that glorieth, glory in this: that he understandeth and knoweth me, that I am the Lord that exercise lovingkindness, judgment and righteousness, in the earth: for in these things I delight, saith the Lord."
Notice, the Lord leaves no question that it is He who speaks by bookending the verses the "Thus saith the Lord, ..., saith the Lord." The Lord lists three things that men always boast about: his mind, his might, his money. But the Lord takes no delight, no pleasure in these things. None of these glorify God, they only point to what a man does for himself.
The verse details what the Lord does delight in: Man's understanding and knowledge of the Lord. Irrespective of a persons wealth, and mental capacity, and power, it is only the knowledge and understanding a person has of the Lord that is relevant. If all the other pass away to nothing, a person's intimate relationship with God endures. For a Christian, this means the in-dwelling of the Holy Spirit, God fully manifesting Himself through humans.
For each of the three things man boasts of, God provides an answer: lovingkindess, judgment, righteousness. God's love replaces man's mind - his wisdom. 1 Corinthians 13:2 declares (paraphrasing), if I have all knowledge and have not love, I am nothing. God's judgment replaces man's might - his power and ability. A man without discernment of God's will is helpless regardless of his strength or ability (see Hebrews 5:14). It is the righteousness of God that replaces man's money - his wealth, his transactional power. A man with the holiness and righteousness of God is far richer than any billionaire without God (see Matthew 6:19).
Thus, among the prophecies of doom and destruction, God permits Jeremiah to write a key to delighting the Lord. Let us glory in our knowledge of Him!
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Jeremiah 1 - 6
Proclamations of Judgment Against Judah
The opening chapters of Jeremiah are frightening and disturbing in their near lack of mercy. Both Israel and Judah have forsaken God and have turned to idols. The snub their nose at the Lord and ignore and kill the prophets. God's continual judgment against them is not heeded and the people redouble their efforts to sin even more.
The tone of all of these prophecies are dire. Both kingdoms have totally and utterly turned themselves to idol worship. The Lord calls them prostitutes and states in 2:33 "Even an experienced prostitute could learn from you!" This pathetic condition of Judah and Israel cause Jeremiah to prophecy awful, unmerciful judgment on them.
The disaster is one of annihilation. "I looked at the earth, and it was empty and formless. I looked at the heavens, and there was no light. I looked at the mountains and hills, and they trembled and shook. I looked, and all the people were gone. All the birds of the sky had flown away. I looked and the fertile fields had become a wilderness. The towns lay in ruins, crushed by the Lord's fierce anger." (4:23-26). Sadly, in the face of such destruction, the people continued to rebel and not hearken unto the voice of the prophet.
The opening chapters of Jeremiah are frightening and disturbing in their near lack of mercy. Both Israel and Judah have forsaken God and have turned to idols. The snub their nose at the Lord and ignore and kill the prophets. God's continual judgment against them is not heeded and the people redouble their efforts to sin even more.
The tone of all of these prophecies are dire. Both kingdoms have totally and utterly turned themselves to idol worship. The Lord calls them prostitutes and states in 2:33 "Even an experienced prostitute could learn from you!" This pathetic condition of Judah and Israel cause Jeremiah to prophecy awful, unmerciful judgment on them.
The disaster is one of annihilation. "I looked at the earth, and it was empty and formless. I looked at the heavens, and there was no light. I looked at the mountains and hills, and they trembled and shook. I looked, and all the people were gone. All the birds of the sky had flown away. I looked and the fertile fields had become a wilderness. The towns lay in ruins, crushed by the Lord's fierce anger." (4:23-26). Sadly, in the face of such destruction, the people continued to rebel and not hearken unto the voice of the prophet.
Monday, November 22, 2010
Isaiah 61 - 66
Restoration and Judgment
In these final chapters of Isaiah we read of the glorious restoration of Jerusalem. She will be given a new name by the Lord. She will no longer be called the "Forsaken City" or the "Desolate Land" but will not be called "The City of God's Delight." No enemy will ever destroy that city again. The children will not die young. Everyone will live a full life. Prosperity will abound.
For those who forsake the Lord and deny Him glory, judgment will be upon them quickly. Others will look in utter horror at the judgment of God on the unbeliever and scoffer. Chapter 65 verses13-14 explains their fate:
My servants will eat,
but you will starve.
My servants will drink,
but you will be thirsty.
My servants will rejoice,
but you will be sad and ashamed.
My servants will sing for joy,
but you will cry in sorrow and despair.
The Lord promises to restore Jerusalem and He promises to resurrect and catch away His Bride. Praise the Lord!
In these final chapters of Isaiah we read of the glorious restoration of Jerusalem. She will be given a new name by the Lord. She will no longer be called the "Forsaken City" or the "Desolate Land" but will not be called "The City of God's Delight." No enemy will ever destroy that city again. The children will not die young. Everyone will live a full life. Prosperity will abound.
For those who forsake the Lord and deny Him glory, judgment will be upon them quickly. Others will look in utter horror at the judgment of God on the unbeliever and scoffer. Chapter 65 verses13-14 explains their fate:
My servants will eat,
but you will starve.
My servants will drink,
but you will be thirsty.
My servants will rejoice,
but you will be sad and ashamed.
My servants will sing for joy,
but you will cry in sorrow and despair.
The Lord promises to restore Jerusalem and He promises to resurrect and catch away His Bride. Praise the Lord!
Sunday, November 21, 2010
Isaiah 56 - 61
Fast For Others
Isaiah 58 contains a beautiful and wonderful lesson on fasting. First, the Lord rebukes those who come to the temple in self-righteousness and false piety, pretending to enjoy the Word of the Lord. They ask for the blessings of God but their heart is far from the obedience the Lord wants. I verse 3 we read, "We have fasted before you!...Why aren't you impressed?" The sheer bravado of a person to ask God this question shows the insincerity of their heart.
The Lord explains in verse 3 to 5 that they are fasting only for themselves. They fast but continue to oppress others. They fast but continue to quarrel and fight. They are only going through the motions of penance, thinking that the outward show will somehow get God's attention. It is true that they have His attention but not for their piety but for their sin!
In verse 6 and 7, the Lord explains the type of fast He desires. One that causes the person fasting to "free those who are wrongly imprisoned and lightens the burden of those who work for you." He wants them to share their food with the hungry, give shelter to the homeless, and clothes to those in need. In other words, to let their fasting be for others.
The Lord is not interested in how we can demonstrate to Him how holy and righteous we are. When we attempt this we only fool ourselves. We may fool others, but in the long run our folly and hypocrisy are made manifest. The Lord wants us not to demonstrate our Christianity, but to allow Christ to live in us and demonstrate Jesus to the world. By fasting for the correct motive, we get ourselves out of the way and give the Holy Spirit full reign in our lives.
Isaiah 58 contains a beautiful and wonderful lesson on fasting. First, the Lord rebukes those who come to the temple in self-righteousness and false piety, pretending to enjoy the Word of the Lord. They ask for the blessings of God but their heart is far from the obedience the Lord wants. I verse 3 we read, "We have fasted before you!...Why aren't you impressed?" The sheer bravado of a person to ask God this question shows the insincerity of their heart.
The Lord explains in verse 3 to 5 that they are fasting only for themselves. They fast but continue to oppress others. They fast but continue to quarrel and fight. They are only going through the motions of penance, thinking that the outward show will somehow get God's attention. It is true that they have His attention but not for their piety but for their sin!
In verse 6 and 7, the Lord explains the type of fast He desires. One that causes the person fasting to "free those who are wrongly imprisoned and lightens the burden of those who work for you." He wants them to share their food with the hungry, give shelter to the homeless, and clothes to those in need. In other words, to let their fasting be for others.
The Lord is not interested in how we can demonstrate to Him how holy and righteous we are. When we attempt this we only fool ourselves. We may fool others, but in the long run our folly and hypocrisy are made manifest. The Lord wants us not to demonstrate our Christianity, but to allow Christ to live in us and demonstrate Jesus to the world. By fasting for the correct motive, we get ourselves out of the way and give the Holy Spirit full reign in our lives.
Saturday, November 20, 2010
Isaiah 51 - 55
Who Has Believed Our Report?
Isaiah prophecies the crucifixion of Jesus in chapter 53 with startling accuracy. "There was nothing beautiful or majestic about his appearance" (v.2) because Jesus appeared to be just a common man, dressed in common clothing, associating with everyday people. He was not the regal Messiah coming down to Earth with a blast of trumpets accompanied by the heavenly host to smite the Romans and install the Jewish priesthood as the leaders. No, He was just a plain looking, plain dressed man.
"He was despised and rejected-a man of sorrows, acquainted with grief." Once He began preaching the message of Love, of Grace, of Forgiveness, they hated Him. He disrupted their ways. He challenged their greed. He was heretical to their theology, yet He was the Word and the Son of God.
He carried all our sorrows and weaknesses. He bore all of our burdens. He suffered for all of us. And by His stripes are we healed. Undeniably, the Lord Jesus Christ.
Isaiah prophecies the crucifixion of Jesus in chapter 53 with startling accuracy. "There was nothing beautiful or majestic about his appearance" (v.2) because Jesus appeared to be just a common man, dressed in common clothing, associating with everyday people. He was not the regal Messiah coming down to Earth with a blast of trumpets accompanied by the heavenly host to smite the Romans and install the Jewish priesthood as the leaders. No, He was just a plain looking, plain dressed man.
"He was despised and rejected-a man of sorrows, acquainted with grief." Once He began preaching the message of Love, of Grace, of Forgiveness, they hated Him. He disrupted their ways. He challenged their greed. He was heretical to their theology, yet He was the Word and the Son of God.
He carried all our sorrows and weaknesses. He bore all of our burdens. He suffered for all of us. And by His stripes are we healed. Undeniably, the Lord Jesus Christ.
Friday, November 19, 2010
Isaiah 45 - 50
Isaiah 47
King James Version My Version - As it applies to America
King James Version My Version - As it applies to America
1 Come down, and sit in the dust, O virgin daughter of 2 Take the millstones, and grind meal: uncover thy locks, make bare the leg, uncover the thigh, pass over the rivers. 3 Thy nakedness shall be uncovered, yea, thy shame shall be seen: I will take vengeance, and I will not meet [thee as] a man. 4 [As for] our redeemer, the LORD of hosts [is] his name, the Holy One of Israel. 5 Sit thou silent, and get thee into darkness, O daughter of the Chaldeans: for thou shalt no more be called, The lady of kingdoms. 6 I was wroth with my people, I have polluted mine inheritance, and given them into thine hand: thou didst shew them no mercy; upon the ancient hast thou very heavily laid thy yoke. 7 And thou saidst, I shall be a lady for ever: [so] that thou didst not lay these [things] to thy heart, neither didst remember the latter end of it. 8 Therefore hear now this, [thou that art] given to pleasures, that dwellest carelessly, that sayest in thine heart, I [am], and none else beside me; I shall not sit [as] a widow, neither shall I know the loss of children: 9 But these two [things] shall come to thee in a moment in one day, the loss of children, and widowhood: they shall come upon thee in their perfection for the multitude of thy sorceries, [and] for the great abundance of thine enchantments. 10 For thou hast trusted in thy wickedness: thou hast said, None seeth me. Thy wisdom and thy knowledge, it hath perverted thee; and thou hast said in thine heart, I [am], and none else beside me. 11 Therefore shall evil come upon thee; thou shalt not know from whence it riseth: and mischief shall fall upon thee; thou shalt not be able to put it off: and desolation shall come upon thee suddenly, [which] thou shalt not know. 12 Stand now with thine enchantments, and with the multitude of thy sorceries, wherein thou hast laboured from thy youth; if so be thou shalt be able to profit, if so be thou mayest prevail. 13 Thou art wearied in the multitude of thy counsels. Let now the astrologers, the stargazers, the monthly prognosticators, stand up, and save thee from [these things] that shall come upon thee. 14 Behold, they shall be as stubble; the fire shall burn them; they shall not deliver themselves from the power of the flame: [there shall] not [be] a coal to warm at, [nor] fire to sit before it. 15 Thus shall they be unto thee with whom thou hast laboured, [even] thy merchants, from thy youth: they shall wander every one to his quarter; none shall save thee. | 1 Abase yourselves, American citizens, sit down in shame: you no longer rule, O daughter of 2 Do the common work of peasants. Your banality is exposed as a naked woman. Your covering is a sham. 3 You are exposed and sit in shame for all to see. The Lord will exact vengeance for your iniquity. You are no longer respected. 4 Our redeemer, The Lord Almighty, is the Holy One of Israel. 5 No one listens to you anymore, you are not a light to the world, O child of 6 I am upset with those who call themselves a Christian nation but have followed denominational teaching instead of my Word. You have mocked my ministers and burdened them. 7 You have said, “I will rule forever!” But you have not considered the consequences of your actions. You have not planned wisely or with God in mind. 8 Therefore, Listen! You are obsessed with entertainment. You live recklessly as fools. You say you are invincible, that your men are great men, your children have much to inherit. 9 But you have destroyed your future generations with abortion. You have made a mockery of fatherhood and motherhood. You have trusted modern science and medicine and pharmaceuticals and not the healing Hand of God. 10 You thought that your secrets would remain hidden. Your wisdom and knowledge has seduced you. You think you are the greatest nation on Earth, that none can defeat you. 11 However, you shall be destroyed border to border and coast to coast. Sudden and complete destruction shall come upon you. Not one stone will be left on top of another. The bombs with your name on it lie waiting in the silos, ready to be launched. 12 Go ahead and deceive yourself with missile defense systems, treaties, and with pacts with your enemies. Trust in the almighty dollar. Go forth, in fear, thinking you will win. 13 Listen to your Cabinet, your Czars, your advisors, the wise politicians. Look at your poll numbers, the perceptions, what the media predicts will happen and convince yourself - you are safe. 14 Yet someday, you will be destroyed by atomic fire. The bombs in the silos will find their targets and blast great holes in the ground. There will not be a safe haven to which you can escape. 15 Those who once admired and feared you (and even your friends) will desert you. None will lift a finger to help you in your time of trouble. |
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Isaiah 40 - 44
Her Sad Days Are Gone
The tone of Isaiah changes beginning in chapter 40. Whereas the first part of Isaiah primarily dealt with prophecies concerning the destruction of Israel and the exile of the people as well as prophecies about the nations that attack Israel, the second part of Isaiah is about comfort and restoration and the glory and greatness of Almighty God.
The first words of Isaiah, employing epizeuxis for emphasis, set the tone with "Comfort, comfort my people, says your God." (1:1). Then the second verse expresses the mercy of God. "Speak tenderly to Jerusalem. Tell her that her sad days are gone and her sins are pardoned. Yes, the Lord has punished her twice over for all her sins." Because of the sin in Israel, she was punished twice over, i.e. Israel and Jerusalem were destroyed and the people were exiled. John the Baptist is prophesied in 1:3-6 and the remainder of the chapter is a glorious description of the Lord. He has no equal, needs no advice, and there is no one or no thing that can be compared to Him.
In chapter 41:18-20, Isaiah talks about planting seven different types of trees in the desert. Each of these are representative of a quality of the Lord. This is a subject I will pursue later.
The tone of Isaiah changes beginning in chapter 40. Whereas the first part of Isaiah primarily dealt with prophecies concerning the destruction of Israel and the exile of the people as well as prophecies about the nations that attack Israel, the second part of Isaiah is about comfort and restoration and the glory and greatness of Almighty God.
The first words of Isaiah, employing epizeuxis for emphasis, set the tone with "Comfort, comfort my people, says your God." (1:1). Then the second verse expresses the mercy of God. "Speak tenderly to Jerusalem. Tell her that her sad days are gone and her sins are pardoned. Yes, the Lord has punished her twice over for all her sins." Because of the sin in Israel, she was punished twice over, i.e. Israel and Jerusalem were destroyed and the people were exiled. John the Baptist is prophesied in 1:3-6 and the remainder of the chapter is a glorious description of the Lord. He has no equal, needs no advice, and there is no one or no thing that can be compared to Him.
In chapter 41:18-20, Isaiah talks about planting seven different types of trees in the desert. Each of these are representative of a quality of the Lord. This is a subject I will pursue later.
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Isaiah 29 - 39
God's Promise
Note: This covers Monday and Tuesday's readings.
In chapters 36 - 29, the reign of Hezekiah is repeated. I wrote about the miracle of the sun going backwards ten degrees when we read 2 Kings 16 - 20. In this retelling, Judah is threatened by the King Sennacherib of Assyria in which he essentially demands that Hezekiah and the people of Judah immediately surrender to his rule. His envoys brag and boast about their previous conquests and how the gods of other nations could not save them. In true sinful form, they explain that the God of Israel Himself has ordered them to take over Judah.
Hezekiah is outraged and sends for the prophet, Isaiah. Isaiah hears from the Lord, and in reality, the battle is already over. The rest of the proceedings are just a confirmation of the truthfulness and accuracy of the prophecy of the Lord through Isaiah. King Sennacherib will never fire so much as an arrow at Jerusalem. He will return to his own country and be killed. His army will be utterly defeated.
The impudence of Sennacherib is manifest when he masses his troops to lay siege to Jerusalem. But during the night, 185,000 troops are killed by the angel of the Lord. His army is terrified and flees. Sennacherib returns to Assyria in defeat and is murdered by his own sons. Thus, the prophecy is fulfilled to the letter.
Note: This covers Monday and Tuesday's readings.
In chapters 36 - 29, the reign of Hezekiah is repeated. I wrote about the miracle of the sun going backwards ten degrees when we read 2 Kings 16 - 20. In this retelling, Judah is threatened by the King Sennacherib of Assyria in which he essentially demands that Hezekiah and the people of Judah immediately surrender to his rule. His envoys brag and boast about their previous conquests and how the gods of other nations could not save them. In true sinful form, they explain that the God of Israel Himself has ordered them to take over Judah.
Hezekiah is outraged and sends for the prophet, Isaiah. Isaiah hears from the Lord, and in reality, the battle is already over. The rest of the proceedings are just a confirmation of the truthfulness and accuracy of the prophecy of the Lord through Isaiah. King Sennacherib will never fire so much as an arrow at Jerusalem. He will return to his own country and be killed. His army will be utterly defeated.
The impudence of Sennacherib is manifest when he masses his troops to lay siege to Jerusalem. But during the night, 185,000 troops are killed by the angel of the Lord. His army is terrified and flees. Sennacherib returns to Assyria in defeat and is murdered by his own sons. Thus, the prophecy is fulfilled to the letter.
Sunday, November 14, 2010
Isaiah 23 - 28
Endtime Prophecy
Chapter 23 is a prophecy of the downfall of Tyre, the prosperous sea-coast commercial center. Because they trusted in their wealth and business acumen, they fell only to rise again and fall again. They were a type of all people who trust in their own ability and resources. Additionally, Tyre is typed as a prostitute, one who is willing to sell themselves to anyone.
Chapters 24 - 27 are prophecies concerning the endtime. Chapter 24 has wording that indicate atomic destruction (1-4), civil unrest (10-13) and full scale war (17-20). Chapter 25 is describes those who will be saved and the mountain of the Lord. Chapter 26 continues the theme discussing the city of the Lord. Chapter 27 is a description of how the Lord will protect his "fruitful vineyard." Finally, chapter 29 is a prophecy against Samaria/Ephraim.
Saturday, November 13, 2010
Isaiah 18 - 22
More Prophecy
These chapters contain prophecies against Ethiopia, Egypt, Babylon, Edom, and Arabia. Additionally, chapter 22 is a prophecy of the destruction of Jerusalem with a personal prophecy to a man named Shebna who had planned an elaborate tomb and funeral for his inevitable death. Because of his hubris, the Lord rebuked him and allowed him to die in shame and poverty.
One notable section is in chapter 20, when the Lord is rebuking Egypt and Ethiopia. He had Isaiah walk around naked and barefoot for three years as a symbolic gesture for the fate of these nations.
These chapters contain prophecies against Ethiopia, Egypt, Babylon, Edom, and Arabia. Additionally, chapter 22 is a prophecy of the destruction of Jerusalem with a personal prophecy to a man named Shebna who had planned an elaborate tomb and funeral for his inevitable death. Because of his hubris, the Lord rebuked him and allowed him to die in shame and poverty.
One notable section is in chapter 20, when the Lord is rebuking Egypt and Ethiopia. He had Isaiah walk around naked and barefoot for three years as a symbolic gesture for the fate of these nations.
Friday, November 12, 2010
Isaiah 12 - 17
Desolation
This series of chapters starts off with a moving song of salvation (chapter 12) after the prophecy of chapter 11 that a branch will come from David's family - speaking of the Lord Jesus Christ, the rejected Messiah. The song in chapter 12 is wonderfully descriptive of the coming of salvation through the Messiah. Yet, we know his own rejected Him.
The next chapters are all prophecies against the nations that conquer and lay Israel and Judah desolate. This occurs because Israel did not live according to the laws of Jehovah and thus had to been severely punished. Because of the correctness of God's justice, the nations that destroy Israel are also cursed to destruction. These prophecies are for Babylon (13-14), Assyria (14), Philistia (14), Moab(15-16), Damascus(17), and Israel(17).
Particularly disturbing is the prophecy against Israel in chapter 17:4-18. Even though they call on the Lord, they have waited too late because they have forgotten their Rock (17:10). The imagery is dire. They plant a vineyard but harvest pain and grief.
This series of chapters starts off with a moving song of salvation (chapter 12) after the prophecy of chapter 11 that a branch will come from David's family - speaking of the Lord Jesus Christ, the rejected Messiah. The song in chapter 12 is wonderfully descriptive of the coming of salvation through the Messiah. Yet, we know his own rejected Him.
The next chapters are all prophecies against the nations that conquer and lay Israel and Judah desolate. This occurs because Israel did not live according to the laws of Jehovah and thus had to been severely punished. Because of the correctness of God's justice, the nations that destroy Israel are also cursed to destruction. These prophecies are for Babylon (13-14), Assyria (14), Philistia (14), Moab(15-16), Damascus(17), and Israel(17).
Particularly disturbing is the prophecy against Israel in chapter 17:4-18. Even though they call on the Lord, they have waited too late because they have forgotten their Rock (17:10). The imagery is dire. They plant a vineyard but harvest pain and grief.
Thursday, November 11, 2010
Isaiah 7 - 11
A Virgin Shall Conceive
In the midst of dreadful prophecies about the fate of Israel and Judah and the vengeful destruction of Assyria, there are several interspersed prophecies concerning the Messiah, the Lord Jesus Christ. Even the names of Isaiah children are indicative of the destruction and dispersement of Israel and ultimately its restoration.
Isaiah's older son is named Shear-jashub and means "a remnant will return." However because of the wickedness of Israel and Judah, the Lord had Isaiah father another son and name him Maher-shalal-hash-baz which means "swift to plunder and quick to carry away." Both of these names were symbolic of the dispersement and destruction because of sin and the restoration because of the promised Messiah.
The first Messianic prophecy is in 7:14-16, "Behold a virgin shall conceive a child! She will give birth to a son and will call him Immanuel, which means God with us. ..." The next prophecy is in 9:6-7, "For a child is born to us, a son is given to us. The government will rest on his shoulders. And he will be called: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. His government and its peace will never end. ..."
The names are notable: Wonderful Counselor - indicating the joy of His wisdom and leadership. Mighty God - showing the power of His kingship and rule. Everlasting Father - demonstrating the continuity and eternal presence of His care for us. Prince of Peace - displaying the environment of His reign.
The third Messianic prophecy is in 11:1-5, with 6 to the end of the chapter talking about the millennium. "Out of the stump of David's family will grow a shoot- yes, a new Branch bearing fruit from the old root." Verse 3 lists four spirits that will reside on this "new Branch:" the Spirit of the Lord; the Spirit of wisdom and understanding; the Spirit of counsel and might; and the Spirit of knowledge and fear of the Lord.
In the midst of dreadful prophecies about the fate of Israel and Judah and the vengeful destruction of Assyria, there are several interspersed prophecies concerning the Messiah, the Lord Jesus Christ. Even the names of Isaiah children are indicative of the destruction and dispersement of Israel and ultimately its restoration.
Isaiah's older son is named Shear-jashub and means "a remnant will return." However because of the wickedness of Israel and Judah, the Lord had Isaiah father another son and name him Maher-shalal-hash-baz which means "swift to plunder and quick to carry away." Both of these names were symbolic of the dispersement and destruction because of sin and the restoration because of the promised Messiah.
The first Messianic prophecy is in 7:14-16, "Behold a virgin shall conceive a child! She will give birth to a son and will call him Immanuel, which means God with us. ..." The next prophecy is in 9:6-7, "For a child is born to us, a son is given to us. The government will rest on his shoulders. And he will be called: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. His government and its peace will never end. ..."
The names are notable: Wonderful Counselor - indicating the joy of His wisdom and leadership. Mighty God - showing the power of His kingship and rule. Everlasting Father - demonstrating the continuity and eternal presence of His care for us. Prince of Peace - displaying the environment of His reign.
The third Messianic prophecy is in 11:1-5, with 6 to the end of the chapter talking about the millennium. "Out of the stump of David's family will grow a shoot- yes, a new Branch bearing fruit from the old root." Verse 3 lists four spirits that will reside on this "new Branch:" the Spirit of the Lord; the Spirit of wisdom and understanding; the Spirit of counsel and might; and the Spirit of knowledge and fear of the Lord.
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Isaiah 1 - 6
Messages of Judgment
Our reading returns back to the Old Testament and the prophets. We are in the seventh, and final, phase of our reading.
The tone of Isaiah at the beginning is dire. Isaiah was the prophet in Judah during the reign of several evil kings. Because the kings did not obey the Word of the Lord, Judah and Jerusalem are in ruins. The people live in constant fear and torment from the enemies of Israel and God.
The first five chapters are prophecies of the doom and restoration of Judah (the southern kingdom) and Jerusalem. The people had reached a point in their worship where there was no sincerity. "I am sick of your burnt offerings of rams and the fat of fattened cattle." says the Lord in 1:11. "Stop bringing your meaningless gifts;" he says in 1:13. They were just going through the motions of worship and not honoring God with a pure heart. He wanted their worship to be pure and holy and not contrived and legalistic. He wanted their obedience (1:19).
Chapter 6 is one of the more notable passages in Isaiah and all of the the scripture. Isaiah recounts a dream where he is in the Holy Temple of God and saw the Lord in all His glory with seraphim praising Him continuously. Isaiah felt as though he were a dead man and realized he was sinful and lived among sinful people. One of the seraphim touched the prophet's lips with a coal of fire from the altar before God to purify Isaiah. And then the Lord asked, "Whom should I send as a messenger to this people?" (v.8) Isaiah replied, "Lord send me!"
The dream ends ominously with the Lord stating that all of Israel will be reduced to a stump. "All the towns will be empty, their houses deserted, and the whole country a wasteland." This was how great the sin of Israel and Judah was and this is the type of judgment to be visited on them for their sin. Lord, be merciful to us.
Our reading returns back to the Old Testament and the prophets. We are in the seventh, and final, phase of our reading.
The tone of Isaiah at the beginning is dire. Isaiah was the prophet in Judah during the reign of several evil kings. Because the kings did not obey the Word of the Lord, Judah and Jerusalem are in ruins. The people live in constant fear and torment from the enemies of Israel and God.
The first five chapters are prophecies of the doom and restoration of Judah (the southern kingdom) and Jerusalem. The people had reached a point in their worship where there was no sincerity. "I am sick of your burnt offerings of rams and the fat of fattened cattle." says the Lord in 1:11. "Stop bringing your meaningless gifts;" he says in 1:13. They were just going through the motions of worship and not honoring God with a pure heart. He wanted their worship to be pure and holy and not contrived and legalistic. He wanted their obedience (1:19).
Chapter 6 is one of the more notable passages in Isaiah and all of the the scripture. Isaiah recounts a dream where he is in the Holy Temple of God and saw the Lord in all His glory with seraphim praising Him continuously. Isaiah felt as though he were a dead man and realized he was sinful and lived among sinful people. One of the seraphim touched the prophet's lips with a coal of fire from the altar before God to purify Isaiah. And then the Lord asked, "Whom should I send as a messenger to this people?" (v.8) Isaiah replied, "Lord send me!"
The dream ends ominously with the Lord stating that all of Israel will be reduced to a stump. "All the towns will be empty, their houses deserted, and the whole country a wasteland." This was how great the sin of Israel and Judah was and this is the type of judgment to be visited on them for their sin. Lord, be merciful to us.
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
Jude
All Glory to God
Jude is one of those books in the Bible that, while short in length, contains a plethora of spiritual material. He starts his epistle exhorting those "who are sanctified by God" (1) to "earnestly contend for the faith that was once delivered to the saints."(3). Jude, like the other writers, was concerned about false teachers coming among the laity perverting the pure Gospel of Christ. He also was concerned about laxity and lack of fervor for the things of God.
The major portion of the epistle is concerned with false teachers. These are those who go "in the way of Cain" and run "greedily after the error of Balaam" and "perish in the gainsaying of Korah." (11). Cain slew Abel for envy. Balaam attempted to sell out Israel for money. Korah denied the God given authority of Moses. All of these are hallmarks of false teachers. The metaphors employed by Jude are telling, "shameless shepherds," "clouds without rain," "dead trees," "wild sea waves," and "wandering stars in darkness." (12-13).
For the believer, Jude gives the following directions (20-22):
1. Build each other up in faith.
2. Pray in the Spirit.
3. Wait for the mercy of the Lord.
4. Show mercy to others.
5. Rescue others from judgment.
May the Lord bless you.
Jude is one of those books in the Bible that, while short in length, contains a plethora of spiritual material. He starts his epistle exhorting those "who are sanctified by God" (1) to "earnestly contend for the faith that was once delivered to the saints."(3). Jude, like the other writers, was concerned about false teachers coming among the laity perverting the pure Gospel of Christ. He also was concerned about laxity and lack of fervor for the things of God.
The major portion of the epistle is concerned with false teachers. These are those who go "in the way of Cain" and run "greedily after the error of Balaam" and "perish in the gainsaying of Korah." (11). Cain slew Abel for envy. Balaam attempted to sell out Israel for money. Korah denied the God given authority of Moses. All of these are hallmarks of false teachers. The metaphors employed by Jude are telling, "shameless shepherds," "clouds without rain," "dead trees," "wild sea waves," and "wandering stars in darkness." (12-13).
For the believer, Jude gives the following directions (20-22):
1. Build each other up in faith.
2. Pray in the Spirit.
3. Wait for the mercy of the Lord.
4. Show mercy to others.
5. Rescue others from judgment.
May the Lord bless you.
Monday, November 8, 2010
2 John and 3 John
Love One Another
Note: I am combining today and tomorrow's reading.
Both of these short epistles were written late in John's life. In 3 John he writes as "John, the elder" indicating his authority, from God, as an apostle and leader of the church. 1 John was written to the "little children" in the Lord. 2 John was written to the "elect lady" and 3 John was written to the well-beloved brother, Gaius. All of these are intimate letters essentially exhorting the believers to love another, to remain in the truth, and to mark those that cause division in the church.
John could see the church being attacked by heresy and formalism and knew that only a true walk with Christ would forestall and prevent the destruction of the believing church. From 2 John and 3 John, he expresses his deep concern stating that he didn't "want to write it with pen and ink. For I hope to see you soon, and then we will talk face-to-face." He knew he would have more influence by being present with them.
May God bless you and bless His Word.
Note: I am combining today and tomorrow's reading.
Both of these short epistles were written late in John's life. In 3 John he writes as "John, the elder" indicating his authority, from God, as an apostle and leader of the church. 1 John was written to the "little children" in the Lord. 2 John was written to the "elect lady" and 3 John was written to the well-beloved brother, Gaius. All of these are intimate letters essentially exhorting the believers to love another, to remain in the truth, and to mark those that cause division in the church.
John could see the church being attacked by heresy and formalism and knew that only a true walk with Christ would forestall and prevent the destruction of the believing church. From 2 John and 3 John, he expresses his deep concern stating that he didn't "want to write it with pen and ink. For I hope to see you soon, and then we will talk face-to-face." He knew he would have more influence by being present with them.
May God bless you and bless His Word.
Sunday, November 7, 2010
1 John 3 - 5
Whoever has the Son, has Life
John continues the themes of love, life, and truth through the end of this epistle. In chapter 3 he explains how a Christian does not sin. This thought may seem contrary to the human mind since we are assailed by sin daily, even hourly, but John explains in 3:2, "we are already God's children..." and thus have been empowered by His Holy Spirit. If we continue in sin, then we show that we are not His child (3:4) but Jesus came to take away our sins. "Anyone who continues to live in him will not sin." (3:6).
The verse just quoted may sound like it is in direct contradiction to 1:8, "If we claim we have no sin, we are only fooling ourselves and not living in the truth." but it is not. We have sin and we have sinned, but for those who are in Christ, we have had our sins removed. He (God) no longer holds them against us or even remembers them. God sees the perfect sacrifice of Christ and thus does not see our sin. If we abide in Him, then we cannot sin.
John continues the themes of love, life, and truth through the end of this epistle. In chapter 3 he explains how a Christian does not sin. This thought may seem contrary to the human mind since we are assailed by sin daily, even hourly, but John explains in 3:2, "we are already God's children..." and thus have been empowered by His Holy Spirit. If we continue in sin, then we show that we are not His child (3:4) but Jesus came to take away our sins. "Anyone who continues to live in him will not sin." (3:6).
The verse just quoted may sound like it is in direct contradiction to 1:8, "If we claim we have no sin, we are only fooling ourselves and not living in the truth." but it is not. We have sin and we have sinned, but for those who are in Christ, we have had our sins removed. He (God) no longer holds them against us or even remembers them. God sees the perfect sacrifice of Christ and thus does not see our sin. If we abide in Him, then we cannot sin.
Saturday, November 6, 2010
1 John 1-2
Light, Love, Truth
John's first epistle is an extension of his gospel and continues to present Jesus Christ as God. Many date the epistle after John wrote the book of Revelations and had the tremendous experiences and visions on the isle of Patmos when he wrote the book of Revelations. Thus, it is no surprise that John declares, "God is Light!" in 1:5. He had seen the light of God and knew that that light revealed all things and contained not even a hint of darkness. In that Light, nothing can be hidden.
John then continues his epistle with the "new commandment" that "You love another" (1:7) proclaiming that it is really the old commandment brought to life and fully demonstrated by Jesus Christ. Now that we have His spirit in us, we also will demonstrate the love of Christ to one another.
In chapter 2, John writes that we must also live in truth - which is the expected result of the first two subjects: light and love. We must allow the Holy Spirit to lead us into truth (2:20) and ignore the lure of falsehood and heresy. The determination of spiritual truth is easy, a liar is "anyone who says the Jesus is not the Christ. Anyone who denies the Father and the Son" (2:21-22). So as we walk in the light of His light and manifest His love, His truth is revealed to us and in us.
John's first epistle is an extension of his gospel and continues to present Jesus Christ as God. Many date the epistle after John wrote the book of Revelations and had the tremendous experiences and visions on the isle of Patmos when he wrote the book of Revelations. Thus, it is no surprise that John declares, "God is Light!" in 1:5. He had seen the light of God and knew that that light revealed all things and contained not even a hint of darkness. In that Light, nothing can be hidden.
John then continues his epistle with the "new commandment" that "You love another" (1:7) proclaiming that it is really the old commandment brought to life and fully demonstrated by Jesus Christ. Now that we have His spirit in us, we also will demonstrate the love of Christ to one another.
In chapter 2, John writes that we must also live in truth - which is the expected result of the first two subjects: light and love. We must allow the Holy Spirit to lead us into truth (2:20) and ignore the lure of falsehood and heresy. The determination of spiritual truth is easy, a liar is "anyone who says the Jesus is not the Christ. Anyone who denies the Father and the Son" (2:21-22). So as we walk in the light of His light and manifest His love, His truth is revealed to us and in us.
Friday, November 5, 2010
2 Peter
Everything We Need
Note: The spreadsheet mistakenly omitted this book. I have shifted the reading of 1 John to cover Saturday and Sunday putting us back on schedule by Monday.
Second Peter chapter one provides a complete list of everything we need to live a Christian life. This epistle is remarkable in its brevity covering a large array of subjects in just a few verses. For example, 1:5-7 provides a list of everything a Christian needs to live a Godly life. Faith (the foundation), virtue (moral excellence), knowledge (discernment of God's will), temperance (self-control), patience (the willingness to wait for God's time), godliness (manifesting Christ), brotherly kindness (affection and concern for others) and love (agape-love, divine love, the capstone). All Christians must have these virtues in their lives.
Chapter 3, verses 5-7 provide one of the briefest overall history and disposition of creation in all the Bible. He covers creation, the flood, all of history, and the final destruction of the world through God's judgment in just 3 verses!
May the Lord bless the reading of His Word.
Note: The spreadsheet mistakenly omitted this book. I have shifted the reading of 1 John to cover Saturday and Sunday putting us back on schedule by Monday.
Second Peter chapter one provides a complete list of everything we need to live a Christian life. This epistle is remarkable in its brevity covering a large array of subjects in just a few verses. For example, 1:5-7 provides a list of everything a Christian needs to live a Godly life. Faith (the foundation), virtue (moral excellence), knowledge (discernment of God's will), temperance (self-control), patience (the willingness to wait for God's time), godliness (manifesting Christ), brotherly kindness (affection and concern for others) and love (agape-love, divine love, the capstone). All Christians must have these virtues in their lives.
Chapter 3, verses 5-7 provide one of the briefest overall history and disposition of creation in all the Bible. He covers creation, the flood, all of history, and the final destruction of the world through God's judgment in just 3 verses!
May the Lord bless the reading of His Word.
Thursday, November 4, 2010
1 Peter
Living As Foreigners
Note: This covers Wednesday and Thursday's readings.
Peter's first epistle is an exhortation to the believers to continue in their life of holiness. We have been born again by the Word of God (1:23) to be examples of salvation to the world. As we grow deeper in our Christian experience we become more alienated from the world, living as foreigners in this world.
Peter reiterates what Paul (see Eph 5) taught stating that believers in Christ respect authority, including human authority, as an example of an honorable life (2:15). He instructs slaves to obey their masters, wives are to obey their husbands, and husbands are to respect their wives. Christian should be of one mind loving their brothers and sisters and keeping a humble attitude (chapter 2-3).
All of this will bring on persecution and suffering (4:1) but our attitude should remain strong and joyful that we are found worthy to suffer for His name's sake. Peter concludes this epistle with advice for elders in caring for their church. They are to willingly serve the people and not rule but lead by example.
May God bless you and bless the reading of His Word.
Note: This covers Wednesday and Thursday's readings.
Peter's first epistle is an exhortation to the believers to continue in their life of holiness. We have been born again by the Word of God (1:23) to be examples of salvation to the world. As we grow deeper in our Christian experience we become more alienated from the world, living as foreigners in this world.
Peter reiterates what Paul (see Eph 5) taught stating that believers in Christ respect authority, including human authority, as an example of an honorable life (2:15). He instructs slaves to obey their masters, wives are to obey their husbands, and husbands are to respect their wives. Christian should be of one mind loving their brothers and sisters and keeping a humble attitude (chapter 2-3).
All of this will bring on persecution and suffering (4:1) but our attitude should remain strong and joyful that we are found worthy to suffer for His name's sake. Peter concludes this epistle with advice for elders in caring for their church. They are to willingly serve the people and not rule but lead by example.
May God bless you and bless the reading of His Word.
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
James 1 - 5
The Twelve Tribes
Note: This covers Monday and Tuesday's readings.
James' epistle is one of the earliest written epistles and written at a time when the nascent Christian church was still primarily composed of Jewish converts. James was a "brother" to Jesus, i.e. Joseph was James' father and thus his first impressions of Jesus were those of Jesus a human. His conversion came after Jesus' resurrection (see 1 Cor. 15:7) and he later became a leader in the church at Jerusalem (see Acts 15:13-22).
This epistle is Jewish in tone, being addressed to the "twelve tribes" scattered abroad. James emphasizes works, personal behavior, and ethics in his writing. This is not in conflict with Paul's writings, rather the emphasis is different. For James, the mere confession of Jesus as Lord was not adequate since "even the demons believe and tremble in terror" (2:19), a Christian should demonstrate his faith through works - works of the Holy Spirit, not just "good deeds." "But don't just listen to God's Word. You must do what it says." (1:22). From this we see the influence of Jewish thinking on James' experience.
James also wrote specifically about behavior. Chapter 3 is a scathing rebuke to mankind about the looseness of our tongue in speaking, calling the tongue "a flame of fire." (3:6). A man who can control is tongue is a perfect man (3:2) and has the ability to control the rest of his being.
In chapter 4 James continues his exhortation on actions and ethics warning believers to be considerate in their objectives while praying. We must pray, but we must pray for His will and not our selfish desires. We must actively resist the Devil. We must not speak evil against others and criticize our fellow believers. James even discusses the pitfalls of great wealth and pities the rich for the spiritual battles they will face.
This epistle touches many aspects of the everyday life of believers and is one that we should all heed.
Note: This covers Monday and Tuesday's readings.
James' epistle is one of the earliest written epistles and written at a time when the nascent Christian church was still primarily composed of Jewish converts. James was a "brother" to Jesus, i.e. Joseph was James' father and thus his first impressions of Jesus were those of Jesus a human. His conversion came after Jesus' resurrection (see 1 Cor. 15:7) and he later became a leader in the church at Jerusalem (see Acts 15:13-22).
This epistle is Jewish in tone, being addressed to the "twelve tribes" scattered abroad. James emphasizes works, personal behavior, and ethics in his writing. This is not in conflict with Paul's writings, rather the emphasis is different. For James, the mere confession of Jesus as Lord was not adequate since "even the demons believe and tremble in terror" (2:19), a Christian should demonstrate his faith through works - works of the Holy Spirit, not just "good deeds." "But don't just listen to God's Word. You must do what it says." (1:22). From this we see the influence of Jewish thinking on James' experience.
James also wrote specifically about behavior. Chapter 3 is a scathing rebuke to mankind about the looseness of our tongue in speaking, calling the tongue "a flame of fire." (3:6). A man who can control is tongue is a perfect man (3:2) and has the ability to control the rest of his being.
In chapter 4 James continues his exhortation on actions and ethics warning believers to be considerate in their objectives while praying. We must pray, but we must pray for His will and not our selfish desires. We must actively resist the Devil. We must not speak evil against others and criticize our fellow believers. James even discusses the pitfalls of great wealth and pities the rich for the spiritual battles they will face.
This epistle touches many aspects of the everyday life of believers and is one that we should all heed.
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