The End of All Things
The book of Revelations is the description of the seven Gentile church ages through history from the time of Jesus' death to the present. To write about it in detail is beyond the scope of this blog, about which I stated a year ago, which was to write about my experience of reading the Bible through in one year.
This, for now, will be the final posting for this blog.
To my few faithful readers, I offer my humble thanks.
To anyone who would stumble across this blog, please feel free to peruse and comment on any entries. Most of my later entries have been short, but there are many entries that are in-depth and descriptive. Any and all comments are welcome.
Thank you and God Bless You and God bless the reading of His Word!!!
Your brother in Christ, Dale Knight.
Thursday, December 30, 2010
Monday, December 27, 2010
Malachi
I Send Elijah
Malachi promised in chapter 4, verse 5, the the Lord will send the prophet Elijah before the great and terrible day of the Lord. The Elijah spirit is much admired by God, to the point that He uses this spirit five times - Elijah, Elisha, John the Baptist, the Elijah of Malachi 4, and the Elijah in Revelation 11.
The Elijah spirit has easily enumerated attributes: Love of the wilderness, oddball, loner, hater of immoral women, no desire for fame or fortune, and an unbending fealty to the Word of God. In these last days, an Elijah is promised. Has he arrived and we missed him?
Malachi promised in chapter 4, verse 5, the the Lord will send the prophet Elijah before the great and terrible day of the Lord. The Elijah spirit is much admired by God, to the point that He uses this spirit five times - Elijah, Elisha, John the Baptist, the Elijah of Malachi 4, and the Elijah in Revelation 11.
The Elijah spirit has easily enumerated attributes: Love of the wilderness, oddball, loner, hater of immoral women, no desire for fame or fortune, and an unbending fealty to the Word of God. In these last days, an Elijah is promised. Has he arrived and we missed him?
Zechariah
End-time Prophecy
The book of Zechariah covers a wide variety of subjects. Primarily it is a series of messages to the ones rebuilding the Temple, the ones to whom Haggai prophesied. Additionally, Zechariah has prophecies concerning the coming Messiah, the "Branch" and King of David. Rich in symbolism and poetic language, this book offers hope to exiled Israel of a complete restoration of fellowship with God.
The book of Zechariah covers a wide variety of subjects. Primarily it is a series of messages to the ones rebuilding the Temple, the ones to whom Haggai prophesied. Additionally, Zechariah has prophecies concerning the coming Messiah, the "Branch" and King of David. Rich in symbolism and poetic language, this book offers hope to exiled Israel of a complete restoration of fellowship with God.
Saturday, December 25, 2010
Haggai
Rebuild the Temple
Haggai is a call to the exiles who were allowed to return to Jerusalem. The Lord directs the prophet to call to the returnees to rebuild the Temple. In four short messages, Haggai covers the rebuke to those who had directed their energy to their own well-being while the Temple lie in ruins. Second, he reminds the people that the Lord is with them, His presence will abide with them. Third he directs them to purity within the law by a series of questions on the law. Finally, he tells them the Lord will appoint Zerubbabel (a descendant of David and part of the lineage of Jesus) to be the king and leader and gives him a signet ring.
These four messages parallel nicely with the three works of grace that a Christian experiences. First we must hear the call to build the temple of God in our lives. We must cease living for ourselves and begin living for Him. Next, he justifies us and promises He will never leave us and will abide with us forever. Secondly, the Lord sanctifies us - He calls us to lead a Holy life. Finally, He, the royal seed of David, takes up kingship in our hearts through the baptism of the Holy Spirit.
Like the message of Haggai to the returning Jews, we as Christian must be willing to heed and obey His message to us.
Haggai is a call to the exiles who were allowed to return to Jerusalem. The Lord directs the prophet to call to the returnees to rebuild the Temple. In four short messages, Haggai covers the rebuke to those who had directed their energy to their own well-being while the Temple lie in ruins. Second, he reminds the people that the Lord is with them, His presence will abide with them. Third he directs them to purity within the law by a series of questions on the law. Finally, he tells them the Lord will appoint Zerubbabel (a descendant of David and part of the lineage of Jesus) to be the king and leader and gives him a signet ring.
These four messages parallel nicely with the three works of grace that a Christian experiences. First we must hear the call to build the temple of God in our lives. We must cease living for ourselves and begin living for Him. Next, he justifies us and promises He will never leave us and will abide with us forever. Secondly, the Lord sanctifies us - He calls us to lead a Holy life. Finally, He, the royal seed of David, takes up kingship in our hearts through the baptism of the Holy Spirit.
Like the message of Haggai to the returning Jews, we as Christian must be willing to heed and obey His message to us.
Friday, December 24, 2010
Zephaniah
Judgment
Zephaniah, a descendant of the righteous king Hezekiah, prophesied in the early days of king Josiah, another righteous king of Judah. His book is primarily a prophecy of judgment and apostate Judah and Israel. He also prophecies judgment against Moab and Ammon.
His descriptions are some of the most graphic and disturbing of all the judgment prophets. The tone is set right from the beginning, "I will sweep away everything from the face of the earth..." (1:2).
Zephaniah, a descendant of the righteous king Hezekiah, prophesied in the early days of king Josiah, another righteous king of Judah. His book is primarily a prophecy of judgment and apostate Judah and Israel. He also prophecies judgment against Moab and Ammon.
His descriptions are some of the most graphic and disturbing of all the judgment prophets. The tone is set right from the beginning, "I will sweep away everything from the face of the earth..." (1:2).
Thursday, December 23, 2010
Habakkuk
Even Though
Habakkuk wrote during the time of Assyrian domination of Judah. He is direct with God, asking the Lord "How long must I cry for help?"(1:2). Habakkuk was upset that Judah remained under judgment from God and that the Lord allowed the Babylonians to continue to persecute them. The Lord assures the prophet that the Babylonians are only a tool used for judgment and that they will not go unpunished (2:6-17).
Habakkuk slowly begins to understand how the Lord works. He expresses that "Even though the fig trees have no blossoms and there are no grapes on the vine;" (3:17a) meaning that Judah currently bears no evidence of Godly fruit and "even though the olive crops fail, and the fields lie empty and barren"(17b) meaning there is no oil of the spirit present and there is no way for Judah to feed herself. "Even though the flocks die in the fields, and the cattle barns are empty."(17c) meaning there are no sacrificial animals. In spite of this, Habakkuk "will rejoice in the Lord! I will be joyful in the God of my salvation!" (3:18)
In the face of dire circumstances, those faithful to the Lord will not be disappointed.
Habakkuk wrote during the time of Assyrian domination of Judah. He is direct with God, asking the Lord "How long must I cry for help?"(1:2). Habakkuk was upset that Judah remained under judgment from God and that the Lord allowed the Babylonians to continue to persecute them. The Lord assures the prophet that the Babylonians are only a tool used for judgment and that they will not go unpunished (2:6-17).
Habakkuk slowly begins to understand how the Lord works. He expresses that "Even though the fig trees have no blossoms and there are no grapes on the vine;" (3:17a) meaning that Judah currently bears no evidence of Godly fruit and "even though the olive crops fail, and the fields lie empty and barren"(17b) meaning there is no oil of the spirit present and there is no way for Judah to feed herself. "Even though the flocks die in the fields, and the cattle barns are empty."(17c) meaning there are no sacrificial animals. In spite of this, Habakkuk "will rejoice in the Lord! I will be joyful in the God of my salvation!" (3:18)
In the face of dire circumstances, those faithful to the Lord will not be disappointed.
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
Nahum
Destruction of Nineveh
The book of Nahum is devoted to a prophecy predicting the destruction of the great Assyrian city of Nineveh. Once the dominating kingdom of the east, their laxity and laziness ultimately leads to the downfall of the great city.
Chapter 1 provides a beautiful and poetic description of the power of Jehovah - a message that all of us should heed.
The book of Nahum is devoted to a prophecy predicting the destruction of the great Assyrian city of Nineveh. Once the dominating kingdom of the east, their laxity and laziness ultimately leads to the downfall of the great city.
Chapter 1 provides a beautiful and poetic description of the power of Jehovah - a message that all of us should heed.
Micah
Then, You Beg
Note: This is posted a day late due to my being sick.
Micah is another book of prophecy written during the end of the kings (he was a contemporary of Hezekiah) and near the time of the destruction of Jerusalem. In themes familiar to Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Ezekiel, this book condemns Israel and Judah for their sin and idolatry.
Chapter 3 is particularly graphic in its description, "You eat my people's flesh, strip off their skin, and break their bones. You chop them up like meat for the cooking pot." (v.3) Here Micah is talking to the leadership of Israel and the shameful way they treated the common person. Amassing great wealth to themselves and letting the people starve physically and spiritually. Verse 4 condemns them, "Then, you beg the Lord for help in times of trouble! Do you really expect him to answer? After all the even you have done, he won't even look at you!"
Isn't that indicative of human nature yet today? We ignore God and pursue our own lusts and only call on Him when we are in trouble or have a serious health issue.
Note: This is posted a day late due to my being sick.
Micah is another book of prophecy written during the end of the kings (he was a contemporary of Hezekiah) and near the time of the destruction of Jerusalem. In themes familiar to Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Ezekiel, this book condemns Israel and Judah for their sin and idolatry.
Chapter 3 is particularly graphic in its description, "You eat my people's flesh, strip off their skin, and break their bones. You chop them up like meat for the cooking pot." (v.3) Here Micah is talking to the leadership of Israel and the shameful way they treated the common person. Amassing great wealth to themselves and letting the people starve physically and spiritually. Verse 4 condemns them, "Then, you beg the Lord for help in times of trouble! Do you really expect him to answer? After all the even you have done, he won't even look at you!"
Isn't that indicative of human nature yet today? We ignore God and pursue our own lusts and only call on Him when we are in trouble or have a serious health issue.
Monday, December 20, 2010
Jonah
God Arranged
Jonah is unique as a book of prophecy in that it is almost entirely a narrative. Jonah is a prophet but has his own ideas. He blatantly disregards the Lord's command to go to Nineveh and prophecy its destruction. Later, in 4:1, we learn that Jonah did not obey because he knew the Lord would be merciful!
There are three salvations in the book of Jonah. First the men of the ship are impressed with the Lord Jehovah due to the calming of the storm, that they immediately repent of pagan worship and turn their worship and sacrifice to the true God. Secondly, Jonah is saved from drowning by a great fish the Lord prepared. Finally, the people of Nineveh immediately take to heart the prophecy of Jonah and repent of their sins thus averting the judgment of God.
For this, Jonah is mad. The Lord uses a gourd He arranged to have grow, then destroys it with worm He arranges to eat the gourd. Then the Lord arranges for a scorching wind to make Jonah uncomfortable. Ironically, Jonah grieves for the plant that is destroyed and the Lord points out that his grief and concern would be better spent of the souls of Nineveh.
Jonah is unique as a book of prophecy in that it is almost entirely a narrative. Jonah is a prophet but has his own ideas. He blatantly disregards the Lord's command to go to Nineveh and prophecy its destruction. Later, in 4:1, we learn that Jonah did not obey because he knew the Lord would be merciful!
There are three salvations in the book of Jonah. First the men of the ship are impressed with the Lord Jehovah due to the calming of the storm, that they immediately repent of pagan worship and turn their worship and sacrifice to the true God. Secondly, Jonah is saved from drowning by a great fish the Lord prepared. Finally, the people of Nineveh immediately take to heart the prophecy of Jonah and repent of their sins thus averting the judgment of God.
For this, Jonah is mad. The Lord uses a gourd He arranged to have grow, then destroys it with worm He arranges to eat the gourd. Then the Lord arranges for a scorching wind to make Jonah uncomfortable. Ironically, Jonah grieves for the plant that is destroyed and the Lord points out that his grief and concern would be better spent of the souls of Nineveh.
Sunday, December 19, 2010
Obadiah
Prophecy Against Edom
Obadiah is a prophecy against Edom - the nation of people descended from Esau. It was most likely written after the destruction of Jerusalem by the Babylonians and is prompted by Edom's agreement and participation with the Babylonians in the destruction of Judah and the exile of the people. Because Edom did not support and fight for their brothers (Jacob's descendants), then the Lord has Obadiah prophecy their destruction.
The sin of Edom manifested in two ways. First they delighted in the calamity of Israel and Judah. Verse 12 reads, "You should not have gloated when they exiled your relatives...You should not have rejoiced when the people...suffered." This gloating was caused by the root of bitterness and envy originally manifested by Cain. When the Lord asked Cain, "Where is your brother Abel?" Cain replies, "Am I my brother's keeper?" In the same way, Edom abandons their brother and takes no responsibility for their downfall.
Because of their Schadenfreude and their abandonment of Israel, Edom is prophesied to be totally destroyed and even "disappear from history." (v.15-16). And, in a theme common to all the exile prophets, Jerusalem and Israel are promised restoration.
Obadiah is a prophecy against Edom - the nation of people descended from Esau. It was most likely written after the destruction of Jerusalem by the Babylonians and is prompted by Edom's agreement and participation with the Babylonians in the destruction of Judah and the exile of the people. Because Edom did not support and fight for their brothers (Jacob's descendants), then the Lord has Obadiah prophecy their destruction.
The sin of Edom manifested in two ways. First they delighted in the calamity of Israel and Judah. Verse 12 reads, "You should not have gloated when they exiled your relatives...You should not have rejoiced when the people...suffered." This gloating was caused by the root of bitterness and envy originally manifested by Cain. When the Lord asked Cain, "Where is your brother Abel?" Cain replies, "Am I my brother's keeper?" In the same way, Edom abandons their brother and takes no responsibility for their downfall.
Because of their Schadenfreude and their abandonment of Israel, Edom is prophesied to be totally destroyed and even "disappear from history." (v.15-16). And, in a theme common to all the exile prophets, Jerusalem and Israel are promised restoration.
Saturday, December 18, 2010
Amos 5 - 9
I Will Never Completely Destroy
The remainder of Amos is a series of prophecies against sinful Israel and Judah. The Lord was displeased with their arrogance and laziness. The people had grown apathetic to the things of God and were happy in their wealth. Because of these attitudes, Jehovah ultimately destroyed Israel and Judah and Jerusalem and sent the people who survived into exile in Babylon.
Chapter 9 provides a ray of hope. Verse 8 reads, "I, the Sovereign Lord, am watching this sinful nation of Israel. I will destroy it from the face of the earth. But I will never completely destroy the family of Israel..." This was eventually fulfilled in our day when Israel became a nation and the Jews returned to their homeland to rebuild their country. Only by the tremendous grace of God has this occurred.
The remainder of Amos is a series of prophecies against sinful Israel and Judah. The Lord was displeased with their arrogance and laziness. The people had grown apathetic to the things of God and were happy in their wealth. Because of these attitudes, Jehovah ultimately destroyed Israel and Judah and Jerusalem and sent the people who survived into exile in Babylon.
Chapter 9 provides a ray of hope. Verse 8 reads, "I, the Sovereign Lord, am watching this sinful nation of Israel. I will destroy it from the face of the earth. But I will never completely destroy the family of Israel..." This was eventually fulfilled in our day when Israel became a nation and the Jews returned to their homeland to rebuild their country. Only by the tremendous grace of God has this occurred.
Friday, December 17, 2010
Amos 1 - 4
I Will Not Let Them Go Unpunished!
Amos starts with a series of prophecies against the nations surround Israel and Judah, nations which had persecuted the Jews. However, Amos ends chapter 2 with a prophecy against Judah and against Israel. The wording is exactly the same as the wording used against the heathen nations surrounding them, "The people of Judah [Israel, Moab, Ammon,...] have sinned again and again, and I will not let them go unpunished!"
The Lord had stated that Israel was a chosen people, but because of their sin and idolatry, they had reached a point where they would be punished just like their enemies were punished. The special position with Jehovah meant nothing in the face of idolatry and worship of pagan gods. The Lord was compelled to punish them just like He punished the other nations.
In the prophecy against Judah (2:4-5), there are three sins listed:
Amos starts with a series of prophecies against the nations surround Israel and Judah, nations which had persecuted the Jews. However, Amos ends chapter 2 with a prophecy against Judah and against Israel. The wording is exactly the same as the wording used against the heathen nations surrounding them, "The people of Judah [Israel, Moab, Ammon,...] have sinned again and again, and I will not let them go unpunished!"
The Lord had stated that Israel was a chosen people, but because of their sin and idolatry, they had reached a point where they would be punished just like their enemies were punished. The special position with Jehovah meant nothing in the face of idolatry and worship of pagan gods. The Lord was compelled to punish them just like He punished the other nations.
In the prophecy against Judah (2:4-5), there are three sins listed:
- They rejected the instruction (Torah) of the Lord.
- They refused to obey God.
- They allowed the lies that deceived their ancestors to deceive them.
These sins are still prevalent today among Christians. If we do not subject ourselves to the Holy Spirit, then we cannot and and do not learn and heed His instructions. This leads to rebellion and disobedience. We refuse the leadership of the Holy Spirit. We reject the word of correction from the pulpit. With a spirit of rebellion, we then are open to every lie of the devil. Lies that deceive and point us in the wrong direction.
In the case of Judah, the punishment was fire and destruction of Jerusalem. Today, the only solution is a baptism of fire of the Holy Spirit to destroy the evil spirits in our lives.
Joel
Restoration
Joel is a point of controversy among Bible scholars as to when he prophesied. He makes no references to the kings under which he served and provides scant clues to who his contemporaries were. Many believe he live around the time of Elijah and Elisha and during the reign of Jeroboam, but none of this is certain by the scriptures. In either case, his message is profound.
The land was severely plagued with locusts. The King James version identifies four stages: palmerworm, locusts, cankerworm, caterpillar. The NLT identifies them as cutting locusts, swarming locust, hopping locusts, and stripping locusts. Suffice it to say, most scholars agree that these are four stages of the same insect. Their ability to completely strip the land of everything is horrifying and told in great detail in chapter one.
Chapter two describes the encounter like an invading army. The locusts swarm everywhere and nothing can stop them. The completely eat all vegetation, trees, crops, grain, etc done to a stump. The populace is left with no means to food themselves and are open to disease and famine.
But, the Lord promises in chapter 2, verse 25 to restore. The Word repeats the stages in reverse order stating that the destruction caused by each stage of the locust will be restored. In verse 28, the prophets gives a message pointing to the day of Pentecost in the book of Acts. "I will pour out of my Spirit..."
Thus, the Lord allowed the locust to bring Judah and Israel to their knees and repentance, and them promised a complete restoration.
Joel is a point of controversy among Bible scholars as to when he prophesied. He makes no references to the kings under which he served and provides scant clues to who his contemporaries were. Many believe he live around the time of Elijah and Elisha and during the reign of Jeroboam, but none of this is certain by the scriptures. In either case, his message is profound.
The land was severely plagued with locusts. The King James version identifies four stages: palmerworm, locusts, cankerworm, caterpillar. The NLT identifies them as cutting locusts, swarming locust, hopping locusts, and stripping locusts. Suffice it to say, most scholars agree that these are four stages of the same insect. Their ability to completely strip the land of everything is horrifying and told in great detail in chapter one.
Chapter two describes the encounter like an invading army. The locusts swarm everywhere and nothing can stop them. The completely eat all vegetation, trees, crops, grain, etc done to a stump. The populace is left with no means to food themselves and are open to disease and famine.
But, the Lord promises in chapter 2, verse 25 to restore. The Word repeats the stages in reverse order stating that the destruction caused by each stage of the locust will be restored. In verse 28, the prophets gives a message pointing to the day of Pentecost in the book of Acts. "I will pour out of my Spirit..."
Thus, the Lord allowed the locust to bring Judah and Israel to their knees and repentance, and them promised a complete restoration.
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
Hosea 8 - 14
Fallow Ground
"Sow to yourself in righteousness, reap in mercy; break up your fallow ground" 10:12 (KJV).
From Hosea chapter 4 to the end of the book, the Lord speaks through the prophet in exhortation to Israel and Judah. He warns them against the coming judgment and cautions them that their lifestyle of idolatry and rebellion against Him will be tragic. Yet, as we read in Jeremiah and Ezekiel, the people did not listen and the terrible judgment of Jehovah fell on the nation.
The Lord continuously had a witness in Israel against evil in the form of a succession of prophets. Hosea, at great personal sacrifice as we read yesterday, was no exception. He remained true to the Lord and his Word. The Lord tells the people of Israel to "sow in righteousness" and stop their sinning. Only by doing this will they "reap in mercy." Their sacrifices no longer were sincere. The Lord no longer accepted their half-hearted worship.
Hosea instructs the people to "break up your fallow ground." Fallow ground is good ground, but it is ground that has not been used. It has become hard and crusted over. It has remained dormant, weeds have invaded, dirt clods have formed and it is not in the correct condition to received good seed. Thus Hosea tells them to break in up. Put in the plow and break it up. Pull out the weeds and break up the clods.
Of course, we as Christians must do the same thing. We must break up any fallow ground and let the Word of God take root in our lives. We must sow in righteousness so that we can reap the Lord's wonderful mercies. Lord help us to break up our fallow ground.
"Sow to yourself in righteousness, reap in mercy; break up your fallow ground" 10:12 (KJV).
From Hosea chapter 4 to the end of the book, the Lord speaks through the prophet in exhortation to Israel and Judah. He warns them against the coming judgment and cautions them that their lifestyle of idolatry and rebellion against Him will be tragic. Yet, as we read in Jeremiah and Ezekiel, the people did not listen and the terrible judgment of Jehovah fell on the nation.
The Lord continuously had a witness in Israel against evil in the form of a succession of prophets. Hosea, at great personal sacrifice as we read yesterday, was no exception. He remained true to the Lord and his Word. The Lord tells the people of Israel to "sow in righteousness" and stop their sinning. Only by doing this will they "reap in mercy." Their sacrifices no longer were sincere. The Lord no longer accepted their half-hearted worship.
Hosea instructs the people to "break up your fallow ground." Fallow ground is good ground, but it is ground that has not been used. It has become hard and crusted over. It has remained dormant, weeds have invaded, dirt clods have formed and it is not in the correct condition to received good seed. Thus Hosea tells them to break in up. Put in the plow and break it up. Pull out the weeds and break up the clods.
Of course, we as Christians must do the same thing. We must break up any fallow ground and let the Word of God take root in our lives. We must sow in righteousness so that we can reap the Lord's wonderful mercies. Lord help us to break up our fallow ground.
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
Hosea 1 - 7
Strange Marriage
Hosea was a prophet during the time of the kings when the kingdom was divided into Israel and Judah. He prophesied to near the time of destruction of Jerusalem and the exile. He must have led a sad life as a man because of his marriage to a prostitute (at the Lord's bidding) named Gomer.
The story of his marriage is symbolic of Israel's relationship to Jehovah, in that the Lord was "betrothed" to Israel, but Israel prostituted herself to Baal and idol worship and entertained and supported numerous evil kings. Thus, the Lord had Hosea marry Gomer knowing she was a prostitute or would become a prostitute and be unfaithful to Hosea.
Like Jehovah God, Hosea redeemed Gomer to live faithfully with him for the rest of their time together. Chapter 2 (with a recapitulation in chapter 3) describes the process by which Hosea redeemed Gomer. This types the three steps of redemption all Christian believers go through. First, in 2:14 we read, "But I will win her back once again, I will lead her into the desert and speak tenderly to her there." Chapter 3:1 states, "The Lord said to me, 'Go and love your wife again, even though she commits adultery with another lover.'" These two verses speak of justification and election. In spite of our sinful condition and nature, the Lord calls us to be His. He choses to love and redeem us.
Secondly, in 2:17 we read, "I will wipe the many names of Baal from your lips, and you will never mention them again." And in 3:3, "You must live in my house for many days and stop your prostitution. During this time you will not have sexual relations with anyone." This is sanctification, the Lord cleaning up our lives. Our desire to serve other Gods is removed from us. We no longer engage in adulterous relationships with the world.
Then in 2:19 we read, "I will make you my wife forever, showing you righteousness and justice, unfailing love and compassion." This is representative of the baptism of the Holy Spirit. The Lord fully takes us as His own. We are His forever.
Monday, December 13, 2010
Daniel 7 - 12
Prophecies of the End of Time
The second half of Daniel is a series of prophecies all concerning events future to the time of Daniel up to and including our day and the time of tribulation. An in-depth discussion of these prophecies are beyond the scope of this blog. Suffice it to say, there is a wide variety of interpretation and understanding of what Daniel saw.
The visions themselves are fantastic. For Daniel they were frightening to the point of physical exhaustion and abject terror. One vision kept him disturbed for three weeks (10:2). It is remarkable to me that some modern-day "prophets" speak of visions and experiences in a way that does not seem to trouble them in the least. Yet, in the Bible, virtually ever experience a man had (both Old Testament and New Testament) was awe-inspiring and holy-fear inducing. Even Paul was blind for three days after meeting the Pillar of Fire on the road to Damascus.
Two of the more touching verses in this second half are found in 9:23 and 10:12.
"...for you are very precious to God. (9:23). Daniel was favored and precious to God because he was willing to humble himself before the Lord and honor every Word.
"Then he said, 'Don't be afraid, Daniel. Since the first day you began to pray for understanding and to humble yourself before your God, your request has been heard in heaven. I have come in answer to your prayer.'" (10:12). Because Daniel took the time and had the desire to know and hear from God, the Lord was faithful and answered his prayer. A lesson we all can learn.
The second half of Daniel is a series of prophecies all concerning events future to the time of Daniel up to and including our day and the time of tribulation. An in-depth discussion of these prophecies are beyond the scope of this blog. Suffice it to say, there is a wide variety of interpretation and understanding of what Daniel saw.
The visions themselves are fantastic. For Daniel they were frightening to the point of physical exhaustion and abject terror. One vision kept him disturbed for three weeks (10:2). It is remarkable to me that some modern-day "prophets" speak of visions and experiences in a way that does not seem to trouble them in the least. Yet, in the Bible, virtually ever experience a man had (both Old Testament and New Testament) was awe-inspiring and holy-fear inducing. Even Paul was blind for three days after meeting the Pillar of Fire on the road to Damascus.
Two of the more touching verses in this second half are found in 9:23 and 10:12.
"...for you are very precious to God. (9:23). Daniel was favored and precious to God because he was willing to humble himself before the Lord and honor every Word.
"Then he said, 'Don't be afraid, Daniel. Since the first day you began to pray for understanding and to humble yourself before your God, your request has been heard in heaven. I have come in answer to your prayer.'" (10:12). Because Daniel took the time and had the desire to know and hear from God, the Lord was faithful and answered his prayer. A lesson we all can learn.
Sunday, December 12, 2010
Daniel 1 - 6
Highly Favored
Daniel was a person highly favored by man and by God. He was of royal lineage (1:3) and erudite in law, science, and all academic subjects. Daniel was also spiritually gifted and able to discern visions, dreams, and prophecy. His impressive knowledge and unassuming and gracious manners made him and his friends the favorites of king Nebuchadnezzar's court.
Daniel is put to the test early in his exile when the king has a dream that no one can interpret. The king himself cannot remember the dream and eventually Daniel is called to interpret it. Not only does Daniel interpret the dream, he also can recall and retell it in great detail. The dream is essentially a foretelling of the worldly gentile kingdoms from the time of Daniel to the present day. The king, in the dream, sees a massive statue made of four metals: gold, silver, bronze, and iron with toes of iron and clay. These metals become less valuable but increasingly harder and more useful as weapons as they progress. Additionally, they represent the kingdom rule of Babylon, Media-Persian, Greece, and Rome. In the dream a rock that is cut out of a mountain, cut without hands, smashes the great image to nothing. The rock is representative of Jesus Christ and the ultimate installation of His kingdom during the millennium.
What happens in chapter 2 is strange. The king is highly impressed to the point of worshiping Daniel at the end of chapter 1. Chapter 2 starts with king Nebuchadnezzar build a great 90 foot high image/statue out of gold. Some scholars surmise that Nebuchadnezzar built an image based on his dream. However, because the king could not recall the dream, I have trouble believing this interpretation. I think the image was in the likeness of Daniel based on the verses in 1:46. I also think this is why the friends of Daniel, renamed Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, adamantly refused to worship the image.
In chapter 4, Daniel interprets another dream of king Nebuchadnezzar having to do with the king being humbled to behave like a wild animal for seven years because of self-aggrandizement. In chapter 5, there is a new king, Belshazzar, who forgets the humility of his predecessor and sees a hand write a message on the wall during a depraved party. Again, only Daniel can interpret the message - which is the downfall of the kingdom and the ushering in of the "silver" age - the Medes and Persians.
This age brings in king Darius who like Nebuchadnezzar, recognizes the brilliance and leadership of Daniel and makes him the second highest in the kingdom. The other leaders are jealous and trick the king into signing a law that ensures Daniel will be killed in a lion's den. But, again, Daniel is saved by the Lord and solidifies in place in the kingdom of Darius.
Daniel was a person highly favored by man and by God. He was of royal lineage (1:3) and erudite in law, science, and all academic subjects. Daniel was also spiritually gifted and able to discern visions, dreams, and prophecy. His impressive knowledge and unassuming and gracious manners made him and his friends the favorites of king Nebuchadnezzar's court.
Daniel is put to the test early in his exile when the king has a dream that no one can interpret. The king himself cannot remember the dream and eventually Daniel is called to interpret it. Not only does Daniel interpret the dream, he also can recall and retell it in great detail. The dream is essentially a foretelling of the worldly gentile kingdoms from the time of Daniel to the present day. The king, in the dream, sees a massive statue made of four metals: gold, silver, bronze, and iron with toes of iron and clay. These metals become less valuable but increasingly harder and more useful as weapons as they progress. Additionally, they represent the kingdom rule of Babylon, Media-Persian, Greece, and Rome. In the dream a rock that is cut out of a mountain, cut without hands, smashes the great image to nothing. The rock is representative of Jesus Christ and the ultimate installation of His kingdom during the millennium.
What happens in chapter 2 is strange. The king is highly impressed to the point of worshiping Daniel at the end of chapter 1. Chapter 2 starts with king Nebuchadnezzar build a great 90 foot high image/statue out of gold. Some scholars surmise that Nebuchadnezzar built an image based on his dream. However, because the king could not recall the dream, I have trouble believing this interpretation. I think the image was in the likeness of Daniel based on the verses in 1:46. I also think this is why the friends of Daniel, renamed Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, adamantly refused to worship the image.
In chapter 4, Daniel interprets another dream of king Nebuchadnezzar having to do with the king being humbled to behave like a wild animal for seven years because of self-aggrandizement. In chapter 5, there is a new king, Belshazzar, who forgets the humility of his predecessor and sees a hand write a message on the wall during a depraved party. Again, only Daniel can interpret the message - which is the downfall of the kingdom and the ushering in of the "silver" age - the Medes and Persians.
This age brings in king Darius who like Nebuchadnezzar, recognizes the brilliance and leadership of Daniel and makes him the second highest in the kingdom. The other leaders are jealous and trick the king into signing a law that ensures Daniel will be killed in a lion's den. But, again, Daniel is saved by the Lord and solidifies in place in the kingdom of Darius.
Saturday, December 11, 2010
Ezekiel 37 - 48
Ezekiel's Message
Note: This covers Friday and Saturday's readings.
The readings for the past two days contain one of the most famous prophecies in the Bible in chapter 37 - The valley of the dry bones. Chapter 38 and 39 are prophecies concerning Gog. Chapters 40 to 48 all deal in great detail with the plans for rebuilding the Temple - with detailed instructions on size, gates, location, etc. Additionally, worship and animal sacrifice are described, as well as the location of all the tribes in the restored land. At this point, I am still not certain of how these chapters relate to the present-day Christian.
Note: This covers Friday and Saturday's readings.
The readings for the past two days contain one of the most famous prophecies in the Bible in chapter 37 - The valley of the dry bones. Chapter 38 and 39 are prophecies concerning Gog. Chapters 40 to 48 all deal in great detail with the plans for rebuilding the Temple - with detailed instructions on size, gates, location, etc. Additionally, worship and animal sacrifice are described, as well as the location of all the tribes in the restored land. At this point, I am still not certain of how these chapters relate to the present-day Christian.
Thursday, December 9, 2010
Ezekiel 31 - 36
Shepherds
Chapter 34 of today's reading contains two sections: from verse 1 to 10 is a rebuke to the evil and lax shepherds of Israel, and verses 11 - 31 is a promise by the Lord Himself to be the great Shepherd of Israel. This chapter has a dual meaning. First, it is a rebuke to the failed shepherds, the kings and religious leaders, of Israel and Judah and a promise of the Lord's deliverance of Israel and restoration of the Jews back to their homeland.
However, the deeper meaning is in the typology of shepherds as ministers. Those who sold out to the popularity of sin and saw their position as a "paycheck" instead of a position of service to God and to the people. "You feed yourselves instead of your flocks." (v.2). In another words, instead of feeding the children of God the true Word of God, they feed themselves the monetary gain by dint of their position. "You have not taken care of the weak. You have not tended the sick or bound up the injured." (v.4) No prayer for the sick, no praying with the spiritually weak. "You have not gone looking for those who have wandered away and are lost." (v.4) No counseling and urging the backslider back to Christ. No witnessing to the lost on the goodness of God's salvation.
These are serious charges made by God to the leaders of the modern day church. Instead of tending the God's business, they have lined their own pockets with money intended to spread the Gospel. He speaks, "I now consider these shepherds my enemies, and I will hold them responsible for what has happened to my flock." (v.10).
Chapter 34 of today's reading contains two sections: from verse 1 to 10 is a rebuke to the evil and lax shepherds of Israel, and verses 11 - 31 is a promise by the Lord Himself to be the great Shepherd of Israel. This chapter has a dual meaning. First, it is a rebuke to the failed shepherds, the kings and religious leaders, of Israel and Judah and a promise of the Lord's deliverance of Israel and restoration of the Jews back to their homeland.
However, the deeper meaning is in the typology of shepherds as ministers. Those who sold out to the popularity of sin and saw their position as a "paycheck" instead of a position of service to God and to the people. "You feed yourselves instead of your flocks." (v.2). In another words, instead of feeding the children of God the true Word of God, they feed themselves the monetary gain by dint of their position. "You have not taken care of the weak. You have not tended the sick or bound up the injured." (v.4) No prayer for the sick, no praying with the spiritually weak. "You have not gone looking for those who have wandered away and are lost." (v.4) No counseling and urging the backslider back to Christ. No witnessing to the lost on the goodness of God's salvation.
These are serious charges made by God to the leaders of the modern day church. Instead of tending the God's business, they have lined their own pockets with money intended to spread the Gospel. He speaks, "I now consider these shepherds my enemies, and I will hold them responsible for what has happened to my flock." (v.10).
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Ezekiel 25 - 30
Prophecy Against the Nations
The chapters in today's reading are all prophecies against the nations surrounding Israel. The lands of Ammon, Moab, Edom and Philistia are all condemned to destruction and war in chapter 25. Chapters 26, 27 and 28 are an extended message and elegy against the nation of Tyre - the great shipbuilding and commerce center. The Lord prophecies that Babylon will utterly destroy Tyre because they rejoiced in the calamity of Israel.
At the end of chapter 28 is a beautiful reminder of the love the Lord has for Israel. In verse 25 we read, "...The people of Israel will again live in their own land..." Chapters 29 and 30 are prophecies against Egypt. Again, the Lord will use Babylon to destroy Egypt.
The chapters in today's reading are all prophecies against the nations surrounding Israel. The lands of Ammon, Moab, Edom and Philistia are all condemned to destruction and war in chapter 25. Chapters 26, 27 and 28 are an extended message and elegy against the nation of Tyre - the great shipbuilding and commerce center. The Lord prophecies that Babylon will utterly destroy Tyre because they rejoiced in the calamity of Israel.
At the end of chapter 28 is a beautiful reminder of the love the Lord has for Israel. In verse 25 we read, "...The people of Israel will again live in their own land..." Chapters 29 and 30 are prophecies against Egypt. Again, the Lord will use Babylon to destroy Egypt.
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Ezekiel 19 - 24
How Dare You Ask
The chapters in today's reading are particularly bleak, especially chapter 23. The tone is set at the beginning with a funeral dirge for the kings of Judah and for Judah itself. Then in chapter 20, some leaders of Israel come to Ezekiel and have him request a message from the Lord. Because of their sin and repeated idolatry, the had essentially taken themselves and their nation and all the people out of the economy of God.
The Lord gives a fateful message to Ezekiel for the leaders, "How dare you come to ask em for a message? As surely as I live, says the Sovereign Lord, I will tell you nothing." This is a pathetic state for anyone to be in. If the Lord refuses to speak to a person, then all that is left is doom and destruction. After stating this, the Lord enumerates, through Ezekiel, all the reasons for His non-reply. The people have continually worshiped idols. The people have continually rebelled. They did not keep His Law. They did not observe the sabbath. Their children were taught incorrectly and continue the process.
For us as Christians, the message of Ezekiel is one of warning. If we refuse to heed the message of grace and refuse the Holy Spirit, we will be as those of ancient Judah and Israel - unable to hear from the Lord. May God be with us. May we surrender our will to Him!
The chapters in today's reading are particularly bleak, especially chapter 23. The tone is set at the beginning with a funeral dirge for the kings of Judah and for Judah itself. Then in chapter 20, some leaders of Israel come to Ezekiel and have him request a message from the Lord. Because of their sin and repeated idolatry, the had essentially taken themselves and their nation and all the people out of the economy of God.
The Lord gives a fateful message to Ezekiel for the leaders, "How dare you come to ask em for a message? As surely as I live, says the Sovereign Lord, I will tell you nothing." This is a pathetic state for anyone to be in. If the Lord refuses to speak to a person, then all that is left is doom and destruction. After stating this, the Lord enumerates, through Ezekiel, all the reasons for His non-reply. The people have continually worshiped idols. The people have continually rebelled. They did not keep His Law. They did not observe the sabbath. Their children were taught incorrectly and continue the process.
For us as Christians, the message of Ezekiel is one of warning. If we refuse to heed the message of grace and refuse the Holy Spirit, we will be as those of ancient Judah and Israel - unable to hear from the Lord. May God be with us. May we surrender our will to Him!
Monday, December 6, 2010
Ezekiel 13 - 18
Judgment and Parables
Today's reading continues the prophecies of judgment and contains several parables concerning Jerusalem and the leadership of Israel. Chapter 13 is a clear judgment against false prophets. Prophets who claim to have heard from the Lord but have not. The Lord was not pleased with the prophets who predicted peace in Jerusalem after the Lord had already had Jeremiah and Ezekiel prophecy the destruction of that city.
Chapter 14 is a judgment against the hypocritical leaders who came to Ezekiel beseeching him to intercede with the Lord. The Lord tells Ezekiel that the leaders are idol worshipers and not worthy of a blessing from God. The second half of chapter 14 (starting with verse 12) tells of what will happen to the people of a country who sin against God. The Bible employs repetitive rhetorical that answers rhetorical questions. "Suppose I lifted my fist to crush them, cutting off their food supply and sending famine..." (v. 13) "Suppose I were to send wild animals" (v. 15). "Suppose I were to bring war..." (v. 17). "Suppose I send an epidemic..." (v. 19). In answer, the Lord states each time that even if Noah, Daniel, and Job were there, they would not be able to save the people. Only they would be saved by their righteousness.
Notice that the four judgments match the four judgments of the forth seal: famine, wild animals, war, epidemic. This ties the judgment of apostate Jerusalem to the judgment of the apostate church in the last days. The three prophets mentioned, Noah, Daniel, Job. It is interesting to note that Daniel was probably not living at the time Ezekiel recorded this prophecy. To me, it is possible that Noah represents the believers carried through the tribulation. Job represented the man perfect in God's eyes, i.e. the Gentile bride, and Daniel represents the future prophet of the end-time. This is just speculation on my part at this time, and thus needs to be examined more closely.
The remaining chapters in today's reading contain parables that all pertain to unbelieving and apostate Jerusalem. Chapter 16 is quite descriptive describing Jerusalem as one born and abandon and saved and raised up by God only to become a vile prostitute. The prostitute Jerusalem is immoral to the point that she no longer even charges for her activity and willingly seeks out and commits adultery and fornication. Only a slight ray of hope is proffered in 16:53, "Someday I will restore [...] you too.!"
May God bless you and bless the reading of His Word.
Sunday, December 5, 2010
Ezekiel 8 - 12
God's Glory Leaves the Temple
Today's reading includes more prophecies of destruction of Jerusalem and the Temple. The progression is telling. Chapter 8 names four abominations the people and leaders of Jerusalem are participating in. All of them revolve around idol worship. First, a large idol (most likely of Asherah) had been placed at the north gate of the temple for all to see. This ostensibly was to protect the people. The reality is that is identified the Temple of Jehovah to heathen worship. Second, the Seventy elders were in a secret chamber in the temple offering incense to idols and every vile thing. Third, there were women near the north gate weeping for Tammuz, a Babylonian god. Fourth, there were 25 men near the bronze altar, bowing to the ground to worship the sun.
These four abominations included people from the whole city - those going to the Temple, the spiritual leaders, women at the Temple and men at the Temple. Because of this blatant idol-worship, in chapter 9 the Lord has Ezekiel pronounce the coming slaughter of the idol worshipers. Chapter's 10 and 11 discuss how the glory of the Lord will leave the Temple and also lays out the judgment of the leadership of Jerusalem and Judah.
There is a ray of hope listed in chapter 11. "I, the Sovereign Lord, will gather you back from the nations where you have been scattered, and I will give you the land of Israel once again."
Today's reading includes more prophecies of destruction of Jerusalem and the Temple. The progression is telling. Chapter 8 names four abominations the people and leaders of Jerusalem are participating in. All of them revolve around idol worship. First, a large idol (most likely of Asherah) had been placed at the north gate of the temple for all to see. This ostensibly was to protect the people. The reality is that is identified the Temple of Jehovah to heathen worship. Second, the Seventy elders were in a secret chamber in the temple offering incense to idols and every vile thing. Third, there were women near the north gate weeping for Tammuz, a Babylonian god. Fourth, there were 25 men near the bronze altar, bowing to the ground to worship the sun.
These four abominations included people from the whole city - those going to the Temple, the spiritual leaders, women at the Temple and men at the Temple. Because of this blatant idol-worship, in chapter 9 the Lord has Ezekiel pronounce the coming slaughter of the idol worshipers. Chapter's 10 and 11 discuss how the glory of the Lord will leave the Temple and also lays out the judgment of the leadership of Jerusalem and Judah.
There is a ray of hope listed in chapter 11. "I, the Sovereign Lord, will gather you back from the nations where you have been scattered, and I will give you the land of Israel once again."
Saturday, December 4, 2010
Ezekiel 1 - 7
The Destruction and Exile
Today we began another book of the prophets. The Lord rose up Ezekiel at the time of the fall of Jerusalem and Judah to Babylon. In fitting manner, his book starts the way Jeremiah's book ends with a prophecy of destruction and exile. Only a small remnant of the people would be preserved and scattered to the other nations to learn to believe and respect Jehovah.
Chapter one tells of a fantastic vision that Ezekiel sees - four living creatures each with four faces that looked in all four directions. The faces: man, lion, ox, and eagle - match the beasts in Revelations 4 and 5, thus tying this portion to that book. Additionally, there were wheels that moved with the beasts. These were supernatural wheels that had wheels in the wheels in perpendicular (orthogonal) directions, allowing them to move any any directions with the four beast.
Chapter 7 is a retelling, in poetic form, of the first six verses. Israel and Judah have sinned beyond the point that the Lord will save them. He will utterly destroy the land, Jerusalem, the Temple, and most of the people. Only a small portion of the people will be preserved and scattered among the nations.
Today we began another book of the prophets. The Lord rose up Ezekiel at the time of the fall of Jerusalem and Judah to Babylon. In fitting manner, his book starts the way Jeremiah's book ends with a prophecy of destruction and exile. Only a small remnant of the people would be preserved and scattered to the other nations to learn to believe and respect Jehovah.
Chapter one tells of a fantastic vision that Ezekiel sees - four living creatures each with four faces that looked in all four directions. The faces: man, lion, ox, and eagle - match the beasts in Revelations 4 and 5, thus tying this portion to that book. Additionally, there were wheels that moved with the beasts. These were supernatural wheels that had wheels in the wheels in perpendicular (orthogonal) directions, allowing them to move any any directions with the four beast.
Chapter 7 is a retelling, in poetic form, of the first six verses. Israel and Judah have sinned beyond the point that the Lord will save them. He will utterly destroy the land, Jerusalem, the Temple, and most of the people. Only a small portion of the people will be preserved and scattered among the nations.
Friday, December 3, 2010
Lamentations 1 - 5
Are You Still Angry With Us?
This book ends with a question - "Are you still angry with us?" Jeremiah, the presumed author of these poems of lamentation, discusses one of the lowest points in Israel's history. A series of acrostic poems (where each verse begins with the next letter of the Hebrew alphabet) these capture the abject terror and destruction of Jerusalem and Judah. The city is utterly destroyed. The people are starving to the point of cannibalism. There is no hope for anyone. Even the Temple is destroyed and all of its wealth taken.
From these Lamentations we can see the ultimate end of sin and idolatry. Because the people would not repent, even after the Lord sent prophets and raised up kings that honored Him, the nation had to suffer under the judgment of Jehovah.
This book ends with a question - "Are you still angry with us?" Jeremiah, the presumed author of these poems of lamentation, discusses one of the lowest points in Israel's history. A series of acrostic poems (where each verse begins with the next letter of the Hebrew alphabet) these capture the abject terror and destruction of Jerusalem and Judah. The city is utterly destroyed. The people are starving to the point of cannibalism. There is no hope for anyone. Even the Temple is destroyed and all of its wealth taken.
From these Lamentations we can see the ultimate end of sin and idolatry. Because the people would not repent, even after the Lord sent prophets and raised up kings that honored Him, the nation had to suffer under the judgment of Jehovah.
Thursday, December 2, 2010
Jeremiah 42 - 52
Disobedience Yields Destruction
Note: This combines yesterday's and today's readings.
This last part of Jeremiah completes the historical narrative through chapter 43. Chapters 42 and 43 are remarkable in that Jeremiah tells Johanan and the rest of the remnant still in Judah the answer to a prayer that THEY ASKED HIM to PRAY!!! After Jeremiah prays and gets an answer from God, he tells them in clear, concise, and certain language that they are to stay in the land and not flee to Egypt.
In verse 5, the people tell Jeremiah, "Whether we like it or not we will obey the Lord our God to whom we are sending you with our plea." Yet ten days later (v. 7) when Jeremiah give his impassioned answer to them, their reaction is directly against God and borders on insanity. "You lie! The Lord God hasn't forbidden us to go to Egypt!" the say in 43:2. This defiance of God seals their fate and they are destroyed when Nebuchadnezzar invades Egypt.
The rest of the chapters are various and ominous prophecies against the nations that persecuted Israel. In particular the prophecies against Babylon are particularly dire. These are in chapters 50 and 51. Many of the passages seem to have a dual purpose in that they prophecy destruction to ancient Babylon but have similar language to that of Revelations and its prophecy against spiritual Babylon (see 51:6-10 and 51:41-44).
Ultimately, Jeremiah is a tragic book and a sad book. The price the prophet paid and the life he had to live because of Judah's disobedience are pathetic and sad. But Jeremiah was a faithful prophet, fearless in speaking the Word of the Lord regardless of the personal consequences he suffered. He is an example to every true minister of God who cries out against sin.
Note: This combines yesterday's and today's readings.
This last part of Jeremiah completes the historical narrative through chapter 43. Chapters 42 and 43 are remarkable in that Jeremiah tells Johanan and the rest of the remnant still in Judah the answer to a prayer that THEY ASKED HIM to PRAY!!! After Jeremiah prays and gets an answer from God, he tells them in clear, concise, and certain language that they are to stay in the land and not flee to Egypt.
In verse 5, the people tell Jeremiah, "Whether we like it or not we will obey the Lord our God to whom we are sending you with our plea." Yet ten days later (v. 7) when Jeremiah give his impassioned answer to them, their reaction is directly against God and borders on insanity. "You lie! The Lord God hasn't forbidden us to go to Egypt!" the say in 43:2. This defiance of God seals their fate and they are destroyed when Nebuchadnezzar invades Egypt.
The rest of the chapters are various and ominous prophecies against the nations that persecuted Israel. In particular the prophecies against Babylon are particularly dire. These are in chapters 50 and 51. Many of the passages seem to have a dual purpose in that they prophecy destruction to ancient Babylon but have similar language to that of Revelations and its prophecy against spiritual Babylon (see 51:6-10 and 51:41-44).
Ultimately, Jeremiah is a tragic book and a sad book. The price the prophet paid and the life he had to live because of Judah's disobedience are pathetic and sad. But Jeremiah was a faithful prophet, fearless in speaking the Word of the Lord regardless of the personal consequences he suffered. He is an example to every true minister of God who cries out against sin.
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