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Deuteronomy: The Command

Sun, 26 Apr 2026 20:02:18 GMT

¹¹ “This command that I give you today is certainly not too difficult or beyond your reach. ¹² It is not in heaven so that you have to ask, ‘Who will go up to heaven, get it for us, and proclaim it to us so that we may follow it?’ ¹³ And it is not across the sea so that you have to ask, ‘Who will cross the sea, get it for us, and proclaim it to us so that we may follow it?’ ¹⁴ But the message is very near you, in your mouth and in your heart, so that you may follow it. (Deuteronomy 30:11-14)

Chapter 30 is the conclusion of Moses final message to the people.

In it, he exhorted them to obey the statutes and ordinances so they would be blessed. If they did not, they would be subject to curses

He reminded the people of the Lord’s covenant with them and the need to keep their part to be successful in everything they did. He reassured them of hope for the future based on his demonstrated power and faithfulness in the past.

The command referred to verse 11 is all the laws, statutes, and ordinances he gave to Moses. He told them that they were not too difficult to understand or obey. Obedience is possible. And through obedience came success. Verse 6 says:

⁶ The Lord your God will circumcise your heart and the hearts of your descendants, and you will love him with all your heart and all your soul so that you will live.

Understanding, believing, and obeying the Lord’s covenant was not beyond them.

Knowing God’s commands does not require a journey or intense effort. Nor do the people need to seek a messenger. The commands came from heaven; they were right at hand. They were not lofty or unobtainable.

The gods of the Egyptians and Canaanites were distant and did not express their desires. The gods were a product of their imagination, and their rules were not clearly defined. The people had to guess as to what their god’s wanted.

In contrast, God’s covenant was perfectly clear and easy to follow. They did not have to search for it nor go to great distances to find it and then get someone to explain it to them.

The message (singular), or God’s instructions were close. It was not confusing or rambling but consistent, clear, and unified. It established God’s redemption, forgiveness, restoration, and reestablished his relationship with the fallen.

Moses said that the message was in their mouths. That meant that they had already repeated the truths.

From their mouths it would enter their hearts and become the center of their being and control their thinking and behavior. Like leaven, it would permeate all areas of their life.

It was not like the universe which was filled with mystery. The message was that there was no mystery to living the obedient life.

All they needed to know was contained in the covenant that had been disclosed to them.

In Romans 10, Paul said:

⁶ But the righteousness that comes from faith speaks like this: Do not say in your heart, “Who will go up to heaven?” ^, that is, to bring Christ down ⁷ or, “Who will go down into the abyss?” ^, that is, to bring Christ up from the dead. ⁸ On the contrary, what does it say? The message is near you, in your mouth and in your heart. ^, (Romans 10:6-8)

Challenge: Are God’s commands, statures, ordinances, and laws easy to understand? How do you receive understanding?

“Don't fall into the trap of studying the Bible without doing what it says.” -Francis Chan

Deuteronomy: Stand Firm

Sun, 19 Apr 2026 12:58:29 GMT

²⁹ “When the Lord your God annihilates the nations before you, which you are entering to take possession of, and you drive them out and live in their land, ³⁰ be careful not to be ensnared by their ways after they have been destroyed before you. Do not inquire about their gods, asking, ‘How did these nations worship their gods? I’ll also do the same.’ ³¹ You must not do the same to the Lord your God, because they practice every detestable act, which the Lord hates, for their gods. They even burn their sons and daughters in the fire to their gods. ³² Be careful to do everything I command you; do not add anything to it or take anything away from it. (Deuteronomy 12:29-32)

The Battle was to be the Lord’s (29): Moses told the people that God would destroy the Canaanites and other peoples but that they were responsible for driving them out; they were his instruments. Under Joshua’s leadership the Lord gave the people instructions for defeating the Canaanites. The battle to clear out the Canaanites took five years. The people fought but the Lord brought the victories.

No Distractions (30): The people were to worship him and not allow the worship and practices of the Canaanites to compromise the worship of the one true God. Nor were they to inquire or investigate Canaanite practices as it would become a distraction. The command is “Don’t even think about it!” They were to be single-minded. They were not to be distracted by the irrelevant.

One Place (31-32): They were to worship one God in one place. They were to remain separate and distinct from the practices of the people/nations around them because their worship practices were depraved. (32) Again, the warning was to worship he Lord as he instructed them. Do not bring in or add any pagan practices nor remove anything from the Lord’s instructions. Merrill points out that we now have the Lord’s commands, laws, statutes, and ordinance in one place: the Word of God.

Challenge : What distracts you in our private and public worship? What baggage do you bring to your worship? Do you come with a clean heart?

“Worship is no longer worship when it reflects the culture around us more than the Christ within us.” A.W. Tozer

Deuteronomy: Worship God

Sun, 12 Apr 2026 12:44:18 GMT

⁸ “You are not to do as we are doing here today; everyone is doing whatever seems right in his own sight. ⁹ Indeed, you have not yet come into the resting place and the inheritance the Lord your God is giving you. ¹⁰ When you cross the Jordan and live in the land the Lord your God is giving you to inherit, and he gives you rest from all the enemies around you and you live in security, ¹¹ then the Lord your God will choose the place to have his name dwell. Bring there everything I command you: your burnt offerings, sacrifices, offerings of the tenth, personal contributions, and all your choice offerings you vow to the Lord. (Deuteronomy 12: 8-11)

The call for a change in worship (8): The statement in v8 that “you are not to do as we are doing here today” an indication that they could not worship as prescribed by the book of Leviticus while they enroute to the promised land. Once they were in the promised land, worship would be different.

Moses then warned the people that they are doing what was right in their own eyes. While the same thought occurs in Judges 21:25 concerning sinful living, what Moses was referring to the fact that they had no set pattern for worship. Moses was not condemning the people. He was redirecting them.

Rest (9-10): Moses promised the people they would receive rest from wandering once they occupied the promised land. We know from the book of Joshua that it took five years to conquer the land. They could not rest until the land had been conquered. Moses linked rest and security to the elimination of the Canaanites.

The author of the book of Hebrews warned his audience that they would not receive rest if they failed to keep the faith. He reminded them that the rebellious generation failed to keep the faith at Kadesh Barnea and never received rest. Believers receive rest by accepting the Lord’s offer of salvation and making him Lord.

The Chosen Place (11): In verses 5-6 the Lord directed them to worship at one place. Here Moses states that the Lord would choose that place after the enemies have been removed. He also directed them to bring their first fruits, tithes, offerings, and sacrifices to the place of worship.

Commentator Eugene Merrill points out that the Israelites had local altars. For example: Joshua built an altar to celebrate the entrance into the promised land, Gideon built one to acknowledge his encounter with the angel. Elijah built one to demonstrate God’s power over Baal.

Challenge: Are you enjoying God’s rest? Is your personal worship away from distractions?

"As worship begins in holy expectancy, it ends in holy obedience. Holy obedience
saves worship from becoming an opiate, an escape from the pressing needs of modern life." Richard Foster

Deuteronomy: Worship

Sun, 05 Apr 2026 18:00:09 GMT

. ⁴ Don’t worship the Lord your God this way. ⁵ Instead, turn to the place the Lord your God chooses from all your tribes to put his name for his dwelling and go there. ⁶ You are to bring there your burnt offerings and sacrifices, your tenths and personal contributions, your vow offerings and freewill offerings, and the firstborn of your herds and flocks. ⁷ You will eat there in the presence of the Lord your God and rejoice with your household in everything you do, because the Lord your God has blessed you. (Deuteronomy 12:4-7)

Instead . . . (4): Having ordered the removal of pagan idols, the Lord then turned to where the people were to worship.

For more that 40 years God had guided them by the cloud and spoke to them at the entrance to the tabernacle. He was a living being not a product of their hands or imagination. Therefore, worshiping him was to be unique. Further they were prohibited from any form of worship that incorporated forms from the Canaanites. Instead of worshiping in multiple places, they were to worship at one place.

One Place (5-6): The Lord told the people to bring their offerings and sacrifices to one place; not multiple places like the Canaanites. That was the tabernacle. When they had crossed the Jordan river, they placed the tabernacle at Gilgal near Jericho. Then once they occupied the Land, they moved it to Shilo northeast of present-day Jerusalem. At the time of the Judges, it was at Bethel about 12 miles north of Jerusalem. (The Samaritan woman at the well in John 4 was referring this command when she asked Jesus about where people were to worship.)

The Lord specified in Leviticus that the people were to bring their offerings and sacrifices to the tabernacle at three times: Passover – unleavened bread – May or June, Shavuot – first fruits or early wheat harvest – March or April, and Sukkot – Harvest festival – September or October. They had not been able to do that since leaving Mt. Sinai.

This is important because once the land was occupied, the people were spread out over 10,800 square miles unlike today where we celebrate the resurrection weekly at a place near where we live.

Rejoicing (7) Their worship was to be a community celebration, a rejoicing before the Lord in recognition of him bringing them to the land and everything he had done for them. The purpose of their worship was to celebrate what the Lord had done for them.

Challenge: Do you have one place for your quiet time? Do you have place where you worship regularly? Is worship with a community of believers a regular part of your life?

“Worship is the submission of all our nature to God. It is the quickening of conscience by his holiness; the nourishment of mind with his truth; the purifying of imagination by his beauty; the opening of the heart to his love; the surrender of will to his purpose – and all of this gathered up in adoration.” William Temple

Deuteronomy: Remove Idolatry

Sun, 29 Mar 2026 12:57:02 GMT

“Be careful to follow these statutes and ordinances in the land that the Lord, the God of your ancestors, has given you to possess all the days you live on the earth. ² Destroy completely all the places where the nations that you are driving out worship their gods—on the high mountains, on the hills, and under every green tree. ³ Tear down their altars, smash their sacred pillars, burn their Asherah poles, cut down the carved images of their gods, and wipe out their names from every place. ⁴ Don’t worship the Lord your God this way. ⁵ Instead, turn to the place the Lord your God chooses from all your tribes to put his name for his dwelling and go there. ⁶ You are to bring there your burnt offerings and sacrifices, your tenths and personal contributions, your vow offerings and freewill offerings, and the firstborn of your herds and flocks. ⁷ You will eat there in the presence of the Lord your God and rejoice with your household in everything you do, because the Lord your God has blessed you. (Deuteronomy 12:1-3)

Moses continued his second message with a focus on proper worship. The next four weeks will be about having no other God before him.

Possess the Land (1): Once again, Moses exhorted the Israelites to carefully follow the Lord’s statutes and ordinances upon entering the land. They were the framework or bookends for his messages. Statutes and ordinances encompass the entire law. Moses urged the people to write them on their hearts.

Moses continued to refer to the Land as having been given to them – past tense. The land was theirs even though they did not possess it. Action was required for them to take ownership. They had to move in. It was a promise fulfilled but not realized.

John 3:16 states that God offered or promised salvation to everyone through Jesus. In other words, salvation or eternal life is there, available, in front of us. But before one can possess eternal life, we need to take a step of faith. Action is required to see the promises of God, fulfilled.

Destroy all forms of Canaanite worship (2-3): In the first verse the focus shifts from the promised land to worship. The God of Israel was radically different from the gods of Canaan and therefore required a radically different form of worship. The Canaanites worship was an attempt to pacify their gods. For Israel, worship was to be a celebration, giving thanks, and confession. Because their worship was different, God commanded them to destroy the Canaanite idols and worship sites wherever they were found. The Hebrew conveys, “Do not leave any evidence of Canaanite worship practices.”

Pagan worship takes place at prominent land features – mountains, rocks, and trees where the raise Asherah poles or set up altars. Psalm 121 opens with: I lift up my eyes to the hills. From where does my help come?” David is asking if he received help from Ashura or Baal. The answer was no. He got help from the Lord. Asherah was the Canaanite god of fertility and consort to Baal their chief god.

Peaceful coexistence was (is) not an option.

Challenge: What are your idols? Are you investing time and resources in things that will be burned up in the end-times? (2 Peter 3:10)? Are focusing on things made by human hands or the products of human thinking.

“What is an idol? It is anything more important to you than God, and anything that absorbs your heart and imagination more than God, anything you seek to give you what only God can give… An idol is whatever you look at and say in your heart of hearts: ‘If I have that, then I’ll feel my life has meaning, then I’ll know I have value, then I’ll feel significant and secure.’ There are many ways to describe that kind of relationship to something, but perhaps the best one is worship.”
~ Tim Keller

Deuteronomy: Pass It On

Sun, 22 Mar 2026 17:30:05 GMT

²⁰ “When your son asks you in the future, ‘What is the meaning of the decrees, statutes, and ordinances that the Lord our God has commanded you?’ ²¹ tell him, ‘We were slaves of Pharaoh in Egypt, but the Lord brought us out of Egypt with a strong hand. ²² Before our eyes the Lord inflicted great and devastating signs and wonders on Egypt, on Pharaoh, and on all his household, ²³ but he brought us from there in order to lead us in and give us the land that he swore to our ancestors. ²⁴ The Lord commanded us to follow all these statutes and to fear the Lord our God for our prosperity always and for our preservation, as it is today. ²⁵ Righteousness will be ours if we are careful to follow every one of these commands before the Lord our God, as he has commanded us.’ (Deuteronomy 6:23-25)

Raising Questions (v20): “When your son asks you . . . ” The father was to pass his faith on to his sons. Knowing that, You (singular) need to be prepared to use the questions as teaching points indicating a one-to-one conversation. However, the content of the message indicates that the parents should be able to explain why they believed as they did and living as a living example of the decrees, statutes, and ordinances – that he had given the Israelites.

When one’s lifestyle is different, it will raise questions. The Lord said that when the Israelites followed his directions for living, it would raise questions.

We are to be a continual reminder of the Lord, what he has done for us (history), and his commands. The daily challenges of life can lead to forgetting our history and his commands. Therefore, we are to be a constant reminder to others and constantly remind the next generation.

Tell Our Story (v21-23): The Lord explained that their testimony was to be done in a story form, that is, recounting the history of Israel and their relationship with the Lord. It starts with them being slaves in Egypt, indicating that the story was about them as a nation. A such, it was to be more about the Lord’s promises and what God had done (signs and wonders). (1) He brought them out of Egypt and persecution; (2) he led them into a land promised their forefathers (Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob), and (3) he led them from bondage to blessing

There is no mention of Mt. Sinai in these verses. One commentator believed that the emphasis is on bringing out and leading in and does not need a reference to Sinai and the covenant. The reference to the decrees, statutes, and ordinances was sufficient as the core of the teaching.

Expectations (24-25): Finally, they were to tell their children what God expected of them. Being given the promised land meant they had responsibilities. Further, their obedience would reflect a wisdom not available to the occupants of the land and surrounding cultures. Their children were to revere the Lord, follow his commandments, and obey his laws. To fear the Lord is to obey. To obey is to fear. Moses states that Isreal had been obedient and feared the Lord in the past and up to that day.

Moses told them that the Lord would bless them with prosperity and protection through their obedience. Moreover, he compared the benefits of obedience in the past to the benefits they were experiencing.

Moses concluded this section by connecting faith (obedience) with righteousness – the same word the Lord used in Genesis 15:6 in connecting Abrahams’s faith with righteousness.

Challenge: Does your lifestyle raise questions? What is your story? (Testimony)? Do you include your failures in your story? What does the Lord expect from you?

“God’s plan for enlarging his kingdom is so simple — one person telling another about the Savior. Yet we’re busy and full of excuses. Just remember, someone’s eternal destiny is at stake. The joy you’ll have when you meet that person in heaven will far exceed any discomfort you felt in sharing the gospel.” — Charles Stanley,

Deuteronomy: The Shema

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 13:43:57 GMT

⁴ “Listen, Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. ^, ⁵ Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength. ⁶ These words that I am giving you today are to be in your heart. ⁷ Repeat them to your children. Talk about them when you sit in your house and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. ⁸ Bind them as a sign on your hand and let them be a symbol on your forehead. ^, ⁹ Write them on the doorposts of your house and on your city gates. (Deuteronomy 6:4-9)

One God (v4): Moses commanded the people to listen. The Hebrew word for listen is Shema. The Lord is one – in contrast to multiple gods of the Canaanites and other cultures. Isreal was to have one God: the creator, redeemer, and Spirit. The idea of “the Lord our God is one,” stresses his uniqueness or exclusiveness. Knowing this demands love which in turn leads to obedience. In this case, love is more than an emotion. It is an active response to God’s commands.

The Shema (v5): is the Shema – the center piece of Orthodox Jewish prayers in morning and evening. It is a command for Israel to be totally committed to the Lord.

The heart, or intellect, meant it was to be the foundation of one’s thinking, they were to reflect on it. The Soul meant it was to be the center of one’s being. Strength – that into which one invested time and energy. The idea that to hear God without doing what he commanded was not to hear him at all.

The command was given to the nation, the people collectively and the Shema was to be the glue that brought them together as a community (unity).

Memorize them (v6): The command was to make these words the center of their lives. They are to take root in their hearts as individuals and as a nation. The imagery carries with the idea of memorizing them.

Routine (v7): The words were to be a part of their routine, they were to teach it, talk about it wherever we are, and make them an integral part of their lives and existence. They are to be engraved or established permanently. Repeated constantly; be preoccupied with it. Sitting and walking means repeat them when you are resting and when you are active. Night and morning stresses time – throughout the day.

Make Them Obvious (8): They were to bind them on your hands (their actions reflecting their belief) and as a symbol on your foreheads (a part of their mental, processes). In other words, they are to be obvious by words and actions to everyone. (Orthodox Jews place the Shema in a small box that strapped to the forehead called a phylactery.)

Going and Coming (v9): They were to place them on their door posts as a reminder as they entered in and went out that the Lord was the center of their lives. They were to place them on their city gates as a reminder to them and travelers that they lived by God’s commands – and that their transactions were according to God’s decrees.

Consider: What is at the center of your thinking, being, and actions? Is it obvious you have a covenant relationship with the Lord? Does your house reflect your commitment to the Lord? Is your life a testimony to your relationship with the Lord?

“ Loving God more than anyone or anything else is the very foundation of being a disciple. If you want to live your Christian life to its fullest, then love Jesus more than anyone or anything else. ” Greg Laurie

Deuteronomy: Then Greatest Commandment

Sun, 01 Mar 2026 14:03:41 GMT

This is the command—the statutes and ordinances—the Lord your God has commanded me to teach you, so that you may follow them in the land you are about to enter and possess. ² Do this so that you may fear the Lord your God all the days of your life by keeping all his statutes and commands I am giving you, your son, and your grandson, and so that you may have a long life. ³ Listen, Israel, and be careful to follow them, so that you may prosper and multiply greatly, because the Lord, the God of your ancestors, has promised you a land flowing with milk and honey. (Deuteronomy 6:1-3)

Deuteronomy, or the second law, is the record of Moses teaching the law to the generation of Israelites who were not present at Mt Sinai when the law was first was given. He was preparing the people to enter the promised land. In Chapters 1-4 Moses provided an historical background. In Chapter 5 he went over the ten commandments. Chapter 6 addresses the “greatest commandment,” the one Jesus quoted in Matthew 22:34-36.

Commanded to Teach You (v1): you is plural stressing the need for the people (the nation) to obey the command (singular). By using statutes and ordinances he defined command to encompass all of God’s instructions. The reference to “The Lord your God” – stressed their covenant relationship with him. Some commentators believe that command being in the singular, referred to the command in verse 5:” Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, and strength.” They were to do, follow, obey, or live your life based on the commands.

Fear the Lord (v2): Moses then addressed the nation. They were to fear the Lord or revere him and by keeping his commandments the Lord made it clear that in fearing him, keeping his commandments, they would have a long life. They were to fear him “All the days of your life.” The people were to have a deep and lasting commitment to the Lord and pass that understanding on to their children and grandchildren. Each generation needed to take the covenant personally. Their parents faith was not sufficient for them. They needed to have their own relationship with the Lord.

The Promise (v3): They were to heed or obey his commands. The Lord promised to bless and bring prosperity to those who followed him. Further, they would multiply greatly – a repetition of his promise to Abraham in Genesis 15:1 and 26:4 and that the promised land would be theirs.

Milk and Honey (3): Milk is a product of human labor or agriculture, and honey is a product of nature. One is provided through human effort, and the other is a provided by God.

Challenge: Have you made Jesus the Lord of your life? What blessings has God poured out on your life? Do you stop to consider them and give thanks for them?

“To be commanded to love God at all, let alone in the wilderness, is like being commanded to be well when we are sick, to sing for joy when we are dying of thirst, to run when our legs are broken. But this is the first and great commandment, nonetheless. Even in the wilderness - especially in the wilderness - you shall love him.” ― Frederick Buechner

Numbers: The Plan

Sun, 22 Feb 2026 20:01:03 GMT

¹³ So Moses commanded the Israelites, “This is the land you are to receive by lot as an inheritance, which the Lord commanded to be given to the nine and a half tribes. ¹⁴ For the tribe of Reuben’s descendants and the tribe of Gad’s descendants have received their inheritance according to their ancestral families, and half the tribe of Manasseh has received its inheritance. ¹⁵ The two and a half tribes have received their inheritance across the Jordan east of Jericho, toward the sunrise.” (Numbers 34: 13-15)

Inheritance (13): As mentioned earlier, the Lord had set the borders of the land in the first 12 verses of chapter 34. and that the land was to be divided among nine- and one-half tribes based on the size of each tribe.

The Remaining two and a Half Tribes (14-15): Moses then described the allocation of the land to the tribes of Reuben and Gad and the half tribe of Manasseh east of the Jordan River. This was land subdued when the Israelites defeated Sihon and Og (Numbers 21:21-35). These tribes asked for this land separate from the other tribes and, in return, they would support the other tribes in the conquest of Canaan and would not return to their homes until the land west of the Jordan was subdued.

Manasseh and Ephrim were Joseph’s sons but adopted by Jacob for purposes of inheritance. Because the tribe of Manasseh was so large, it was given land on both sides of the Jordan.

God makes promises to motivate faithfulness. Consider the following promises:

1. God promised Abraham, Isaac and Jacob a land of their own and that motivated them to be faithful for more than 600 years.

2. God promised to restore his people to the land after 70 years and they remained faithful during the Babylonian captivity.

3. God promised Israel (and us) a Messiah, and he fulfilled that promise.

Challenge: What promises has God’s made to you? Are you seeing those promises fulfilled? Are his promises motivating your faithfulness?

‘True faith is never found alone; it is always accompanied by expectation. The man who believes the promises of God expects to see them fulfilled. Where there is no expectation, there is no faith.’ ― A.W. Tozer

Numbers: The Task

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 11:41:56 GMT

⁵⁴ You shall inherit the land by lot according to your clans. To a large tribe you shall give a large inheritance, and to a small tribe you shall give a small inheritance. Wherever the lot falls for anyone, that shall be his. According to the tribes of your fathers you shall inherit. ⁵⁵ But if you do not drive out the inhabitants of the land from before you, then those of them whom you let remain shall be as barbs in your eyes and thorns in your sides, and they shall trouble you in the land where you dwell. ⁵⁶ And I will do to you as I thought to do to them.”(Numbers 33:54-56)

Inheritance (54): “You shall inherit . . . “ Shall – future tense, a strong assertion or intention. Stronger than “will.” Inherit- appears four times in this verse. It means receiving assets from a deceased person. God owned the land. Who died?

Dietrick Bonhoeffer in his book The Cost of Discipleship, (1937) wrote "When Christ calls a man, he bids him come and die." The Lord gave them the land on condition of obedience. Meaning doing things his way and not their way. The old life had to die.

The Lord directed that the land was to be divided by lot. Casting lots was an objective means of deciding how the land was distributed by tribe. The size of the allotment was determined by the size of the tribe. By casting lots, they were putting their trust on the Lord as to which tribe was to receive which area.

Warning (55-56): The Lord warned Israel that if they did not follow his commands to drive out the Canaanites, get rid it of their craven images, and their pagan worship sites, he would do to them as he planned to the Canaanites. The Canaanites who remained would become barbs – to their eyes (inflict damage, potential for infection, obvious discomfort) and thorns to their sides (bring pain and discomfort or infections). If they did not get rid of the Canaanites, the Lord would get rid of them. Joshua gave a similar warning to the Israelites in his farewell address (Joshua 23:11-13)

The book of Judges is about the battles they faced because they failed to keep the first commandment. They experienced periods of rest under Godly leadership and periods of war because they failed to keep God’s commands. Later, the Assyrian and Babylonian empires overtook and occupied the land because they failed to keep God’s commands

Challenge: Can you be a disciple without dying? Who is in control of your life? Have you Committed, surrendered, and submitted to the Lord today?

Every genuine expression of love grows out of a consistent and total surrender to God. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Number: The Land

Sun, 08 Feb 2026 12:59:58 GMT

⁵⁰ The Lord spoke to Moses in the plains of Moab by the Jordan across from Jericho, ⁵¹ “Tell the Israelites: When you cross the Jordan into the land of Canaan, ⁵² you must drive out all the inhabitants of the land before you, destroy all their stone images and cast images, and demolish all their high places. ⁵³ You are to take possession of the land and settle in it because I have given you the land to possess. (Numbers 33:50-53)

The previous chapter of Numbers lists all the stops the Israelites made after leaving Egypt. The first 12 verses of chapter 34 outline the borders of the land they were to possess. Recall Israel was divided into !2 Tribes – descendants of Jacob’s 12 sons. Each tribe was divided into clans, and each clan was made up of families related by marriage or blood. The head of each family was led by an elder.

Instructions (50-52): The Lord gave Moses three commands to give to the people:

1. Drive out the inhabitants; In Exodus 34:11 the Lord said “I’m going to drive out the inhabitants.”. The Book of Joshua clearly indicates that the Lord orchestrated the removal of the inhabitants, but through his people.

2. They were to destroy the Canaanite carved idols and molten images.

3. They were to demolish the high places, places of pagan worship on mountain tops.

If the Isrsaelites failed to drive out the Canaanites they would be a distraction from obedience to the statutes and ordinances, lead to pagan practices, and intermarriage. History reveals that they failed to completely remove the Canaanites and suffered down through the ages for it.

Have Given (53): The Lord said, “I have given you the land to possess.” Past tense – it was already theirs. They were to move forward believing it was theirs.

Challenge: Our idols today include material possessions, position, power, hobbies and so on. What do you worship in terms time and resources that will be burned up in the end-times (2 Perter 3:10)?

“Whatever your heart clings to and confides in, that is really your God, your functional savior.” Martin Luther

Numbers: God's Plan

Sun, 01 Feb 2026 13:18:45 GMT

³² The angel of the Lord asked him, “Why have you beaten your donkey these three times? Look, I came out to oppose you, because I consider what you are doing to be evil. ³³ The donkey saw me and turned away from me these three times. If she had not turned away from me, I would have killed you by now and let her live.”

³⁴ Balaam said to the angel of the Lord, “I have sinned, for I did not know that you were standing in the path to confront me. And now, if it is evil in your sight, I will go back.”

³⁵ Then the angel of the Lord said to Balaam, “Go with the men, but you are to say only what I tell you.” So Balaam went with Balak’s officials. (Numbers 22:32-35)

The Challenge (32-33): The angel challenged Balaam by asking the same question the donkey asked: why have you beaten your donkey? Further, the angel said he was there to oppose Balaam as one opposes an adversary. He was there to ensure Balaam could not proceed with his evil plans. Moreover, had Balaam proceeded, the angel would have killed him.

Interestingly, it was the donkey, by its obstinance, that saved Balaam.

The Confession (34-35): Balaam’s excuse for beating the donkey was that he did not see the angel. He makes the conditional statement: “Now if it is evil in your sight” In other words, his actions were evil only if the angel said they were. Obviously, Balaam did not realize his intentions were evil.

The angel repeated what the Lord said earlier; go with the men but say only what I tell you to say. The angel gave Balaam strict orders, and he understood the consequence if he did not follow them.

Challenge: Do you ask the Lord to show you your sins? Do you confess your sins in general terms, or do you know your sins?

It does not spoil your happiness to confess your sin. The unhappiness is in not making the confession. Charles Spurgeon

Numbers: Attention Gained

Sun, 25 Jan 2026 12:37:50 GMT

²⁸ Then the Lord opened the donkey’s mouth, and she asked Balaam, “What have I done to you that you have beaten me these three times?”

²⁹ Balaam answered the donkey, “You made me look like a fool. If I had a sword in my hand, I’d kill you now!”

³⁰ But the donkey said, “Am I not the donkey you’ve ridden all your life until today? Have I ever treated you this way before?”

“No,” he replied.

³¹ Then the Lord opened Balaam’s eyes, and he saw the angel of the Lord standing in the path with a drawn sword in his hand. Balaam knelt low and bowed in worship on his face. (numbers 22:28-31)

Balaam’s conversation with his donkey (28-30): Balaam was a medium or diviner – one who sees things others cannot see, particularly the future, or the correct path to take, a decision. He was smarter than his donkey

Here we have a donkey that could see what Balaam could not see, the angel. And then God opened the donkey’s mouth so it could speak. Balaam was so angry he had no idea what was really going on.

We get insight into Balaam’s state of mind and his spiritual condition. He was out of control. What would the accompanying dignitaries report to Balak on their return.

Clearly, the donkey that Balaak had ridden all his life understood what Balaam wanted and, for a third time, disrespected his owners direction.

Balaam was controlled by his emotions and the donkey communicated with logic.

(31) At this point the Lord opened Balaam’s eyes. God was there. And Balaam saw the angel with the sword. And Balaam knew he was standing before the Lord and fell face down in worship.

Challenge: Have you ever let your emotions control your actions? When that happens, who is in control?

It is not because the truth is too difficult to see that we make mistakes... we make mistakes because the easiest and most comfortable course for us is to seek insight where it accords with our emotions - especially selfish ones. Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn

Numbers: The Obstacle

Sun, 18 Jan 2026 12:58:04 GMT

²² But God was incensed that Balaam was going, and the angel of the Lord took his stand on the path to oppose him. Balaam was riding his donkey, and his two servants were with him. ²³ When the donkey saw the angel of the Lord standing on the path with a drawn sword in his hand, she turned off the path and went into the field. So Balaam hit her to return her to the path. ²⁴ Then the angel of the Lord stood in a narrow passage between the vineyards, with a stone wall on either side. ²⁵ The donkey saw the angel of the Lord and pressed herself against the wall, squeezing Balaam’s foot against it. So he hit her once again. ²⁶ The angel of the Lord went ahead and stood in a narrow place where there was no room to turn to the right or the left. ²⁷ When the donkey saw the angel of the Lord, she crouched down under Balaam. So he became furious and beat the donkey with his stick. (Numbers 22:22-27)

Balak, the king of Moab, alarmed by what Israel had done to the Amorites and the great number of Israelites headed his way, sought out Balaam, a medium, to put a curse them so that he could defeat them. Balak’s emissaries went to Balaam. Then Lord told Balaam he was not to go. The emissaries returned with a better offer. The Lord came to Balaam and told him he could go to Balak but only do what he told him.

Against God’s Direction (22): The Lord instructed Balaam not to Go to Balak. The implication in verses 19-21 is that Balaam was interested in what Balak was offering him in the way of money and honor. Thus, he went to God the second time for “clarification” As a result, God became angry with him.

The Lord sent an Angel to block Balaam. But the donkey saw the angel and apparently, Balaam did not. He was blinded to the truth.

Again, the donkey saw the angel and pressed Balaam against the wall in a narrow passage to get by the angel. Balaam was confused.

Blinded (26-27): The language indicates that the donkey came to a deep furrow and could not go either right or left, so, it crouched down. Balaam became very angry and hit the donkey with perhaps his divining rod.

If Balaam could not control his donkey, how could he influence a multitude of people.

Challenge: Do you press on when the Lord says “stop?” Are you determined to do things your way? Do you plead with the Lord after he said “no?”

“When the Lord makes it clear you're to follow Him in this new direction, focus fully on Him and refuse to be distracted by comparisons with others.” ― Charles Swindoll

Numbers" The Result

Sun, 11 Jan 2026 13:56:52 GMT

⁹ So Moses took the staff from the Lord’s presence just as he had commanded him. ¹⁰ Moses and Aaron summoned the assembly in front of the rock, and Moses said to them, “Listen, you rebels! Must we bring water out of this rock for you?” ¹¹ Then Moses raised his hand and struck the rock twice with his staff, so that abundant water gushed out, and the community and their livestock drank.

¹² But the Lord said to Moses and Aaron, “Because you did not trust me to demonstrate my holiness in the sight of the Israelites, you will not bring this assembly into the land I have given them.” ¹³ These are the Waters of Meribah, ^, where the Israelites quarreled with the Lord, and he demonstrated his holiness to them. (Numbers 20:9-13)

Focus on Moses (9-11): Moses gathered the people, calling them rebels or those who defied God, and struck the rock (as he had done at Rephidim). When he said “Must we bring water from the rock?” he was taking it on himself and not pointing out that it was God who would bring the water.

Lack of Trust (12-13): God did not punish the people because of Moses’ disobedience. By their actions, Moses and Aaron deprived the people seeing God in action and be strengthened their faith and trust. (We get amen from the Hebrew word for trust: It means to cause to confirm” or “cause to be sure.”)

Moses and Aaron’s punishment for bringing glory to themselves was that they would not enter the promised land. God demonstrated his holiness here in two ways: (1) his faithfulness to his people and he punished Moses and Aaron and demonstrated he expects obedience and trust from us regardless of position.

Challenge: When God works through us one way do we assume he will do it the same way again?

“Relying on God has to begin all over again everyday as if nothing had yet been done.” C.S. Lewis

Numbers: The Plan

Mon, 05 Jan 2026 12:59:13 GMT

⁶ Then Moses and Aaron went from the presence of the assembly to the doorway of the tent of meeting. They fell facedown, and the glory of the Lord appeared to them. ⁷ The Lord spoke to Moses, ⁸ “Take the staff and assemble the community. You and your brother Aaron are to speak to the rock while they watch, and it will yield its water. You will bring out water for them from the rock and provide drink for the community and their livestock.” (Numbers 20:6-8)

Rebellion (6): This is the seventh rebellion or complaint since leaving the Red Sea. In response to the people’s complaint, Moses and Aaron left the people and fell face down at the entrance of the tabernacle – a posture of desperation and anguish. More important it was an act of humility.

Strike the Rock (7-8): “The Lord spoke to Moses (a phrase repeated thirty-two times in the book of Numbers) and instructed him to take the staff (either his or Aaron’s) and Speak to the rock. This was to be done in the presence of the people. Previously, when God instructed him to strike the rock at Rephidim (Exodus 17:6), only the elders of Israel were present.

Challenge: Have you ever been face down before the Lord, literally or figuratively? Does God give you instructions? How does he do that?

If you have trouble hearing God speak, you are in trouble at the very heart of your Christian experience. Henry Blackaby

Numbers: No Water

Mon, 29 Dec 2025 13:19:20 GMT

² There was no water for the community, so they assembled against Moses and Aaron. ³ The people quarreled with Moses and said, “If only we had perished when our brothers perished before the Lord. ⁴ Why have you brought the Lord’s assembly into this wilderness for us and our livestock to die here? ⁵ Why have you led us up from Egypt to bring us to this evil place? It’s not a place of grain, figs, vines, and pomegranates, and there is no water to drink!” (Numbers 20:2-5)

The Israelites refused to enter the promised land, so the Lord punished them by having them wander in the wilderness for forty years (until the rebellious generation had passed away).

No Water (2-3): The Israelites were still at Kadesh Barnea began complaining because they had run out of water. This was the second time they complained about the lack of water. The text implies that the people gathered to complained or verbally assault Moses and Aaron because of a lack of water. Moreover, they grumbled about having left Egypt. Further they would have preferred death like their brothers during Korah’s rebellion against Moses (Numbers 16).

Challenging Moses’ Leadership (4-6): the language of their complaint indicates they were accusing Moses have having led them into this situation. They challenged Moses’ leadership. Clearly, they had forgotten about the hard life they had left behind (slavery). They did not remember the Lord demonstrating his power over nature at the Red Sea, his directing them with the cloud, or providing water previously. They were rewriting history.

Challenge: When the going gets tough, do you have a faulty memory? If so, where is your focus? Where is your trust? Does your trust go beyond salvation?

Our complaining is a kind of atheism. Spurgeon

Numbers: The Consequences

Sun, 21 Dec 2025 13:01:51 GMT

²⁰ The Lord responded, “I have pardoned them as you requested. ²¹ Yet as I live and as the whole earth is filled with the Lord’s glory, ²² none of the men who have seen my glory and the signs I performed in Egypt and in the wilderness, and have tested me these ten times and did not obey me, ²³ will ever see the land I swore to give their ancestors. None of those who have despised me will see it. ²⁴ But since my servant Caleb has a different spirit and has remained loyal to me, I will bring him into the land where he has gone, and his descendants will inherit it. (Numbers 14:20-23)

God forgave the people and then laid out the consequences. He said that the people had tested him repeatedly. The reference to ten times could mean completion – that this is the last time he would forgive them. He was fed up with their behavior. Moreover, his forgiveness showed his glory.

The Lord would not permit those over the age of 20 (the rebellious generation) to enter the promised land. They would wander in the wilderness for forty years.

He repeated the word despise in v 23. Despising is an emotion, a feeling, a heart condition. Their behavior grew out of the condition of their hearts.

But Caleb, remained faithful. Like Noah in his generation stood out from the crowd, from evil. The lord called Caleb his servant as he did Abraham, Moses, and later, David. Further, he describes Calib as having a different spirit, that is he was set apart from his generation. He remained loyal to God. He and Joshua were vocal in their trust in the Lord despite the belief of everyone else.

Yet, both Joshua and Calib suffered the consequences of the rebellious generation – they, too wandered in the wilderness for forty years. However, they entered the promised land.

Challenge: Have you suffered the consequences of failure to obey the Lord? have you asked for forgiveness? Did the consequences of your behavior affect others?

Don’t be deceived: God is not mocked. For whatever a person sows he will also reap, because the one who sows to his flesh will reap destruction from the flesh, but the one who sows to the Spirit will reap eternal life from the Spirit. (Galatians 6:7-8)

Numbers: Moses' Appeal

Sun, 14 Dec 2025 13:07:22 GMT

Numbers: Moses’ Appeal

¹⁷ “So now, may my Lord’s power be magnified just as you have spoken: ¹⁸ The Lord is slow to anger and abounding in faithful love, forgiving iniquity and rebellion. But he will not leave the guilty unpunished, bringing the consequences of the fathers’ iniquity on the children to the third and fourth generation. ¹⁹ Please pardon the iniquity of this people, in keeping with the greatness of your faithful love, just as you have forgiven them from Egypt until now.” (Numbers 14:17-19)

Moses continued by appealing to God to demonstrate his power by carrying out his promise to the people, his covenant. He reminded God that he was slow to anger and abounding in faithful love to those called to be faithful to him. His appeal is for God to forgive the sins of the nation. He recognized that the people had sinned and needed forgiveness.

Moses interceded for the people asking God to show mercy and forgiveness, just as he had a Mt. Sinai (the golden calf). Moses was praying back God's promise to him.

Challenge: Do you intercede on behalf of your family, friends, the nation and it’s leaders? How do you intercede?

We never know how God will answer our prayers, but we can expect that He will get us involved in His plan for the answer. If we are true intercessors, we must be ready to take part in God’s work on behalf of the people for whom we pray. Corrie Ten Boom

Numbers: Moses' Response

Sun, 07 Dec 2025 13:01:56 GMT

¹³ But Moses replied to the Lord, “The Egyptians will hear about it, for by your strength you brought up this people from them. ¹⁴ They will tell it to the inhabitants of this land. They have heard that you, Lord, are among these people, how you, Lord, are seen face to face, how your cloud stands over them, and how you go before them in a pillar of cloud by day and in a pillar of fire by night. ¹⁵ If you kill this people with a single blow, the nations that have heard of your fame will declare, ¹⁶ ‘Since the Lord wasn’t able to bring this people into the land he swore to give them, he has slaughtered them in the wilderness.’ (Numbers 14:13-16)

Moses countered God’s threat with concern about God’s reputation, about how God would be seen in the eyes of the Egyptians, those behind them) and the inhabitants of this land (the Canaanites (those ahead of them)).

The Canaanites had watched how God had been close and personal. In an age without radio, TV or the internet, the word about God and his people crossed people groups and language. Consider Rahab. She reported that the people of Jericho had heard about the parting of the Red Sea and the victories over the kings west of the Jordan River (Joshua 2:10).

Moses mention wiping out the people with a single blow is likely a reference God’s destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah, or the Egyptian army at the Red Sea. He knew God could destroy the Israelites.

Finally, Moses argued that God would not finish what he started, leading his people to the promised land.

Challenge: Has God tested your character? How did you respond? What are God’s promises to you?

“There is nothing God loves more than keeping promises, answering prayers, performing miracles, and fulfilling dreams. That is who He is. That is what He does. And the bigger the circle we draw, the better, because God gets more glory.” Mark Batterson

Numbers: God's Anger

Sun, 30 Nov 2025 13:01:35 GMT

¹¹ The Lord said to Moses, “How long will these people despise me? How long will they not trust in me despite all the signs I have performed among them? ¹² I will strike them with a plague and destroy them. Then I will make you into a greater and mightier nation than they are.” (Numbers 14:11-12)

The Lord questioned Moses about the people despising, spurning or rejecting him and their failure to trust him. All despite how he had cared for them (plagues in Egypt, Red Sea, food and water).

Then the Lord makes two promises to Moses: (1) He would bring a plague on them, killing all of them including their livestock and (2) He would establish a nation from Moses; that is reset the covenant he made with Abraham – similar to what he said at Mt. Sinai when they made the golden calf. He said he would start over with a new people.

Was God canceling the promise he made to Abraham? The general thinking is that God was testing Moses character and teaching him about mercy.

Challenge: Do you complain about your situation or what is happening to you. Are you rejecting God and his plan? What does this say about your trust?

“Complaining about the weather seems to be a favorite American pastime. Sadly, we Christians often get caught up in this ungodly habit in our society. But when we complain about the weather, we are actually complaining against God who sent us our weather. We are, in fact, sinning against God (see Numbers 11:1).” Jerry Bridges

Numbers: Reaction to the Report

Sun, 23 Nov 2025 13:04:10 GMT

²⁶ And they came to Moses and Aaron and to all the congregation of the people of Israel in the wilderness of Paran, at Kadesh. They brought back word to them and to all the congregation, and showed them the fruit of the land. ²⁷ And they told him, “We came to the land to which you sent us. It flows with milk and honey, and this is its fruit. ²⁸ However, the people who dwell in the land are strong, and the cities are fortified and very large. And besides, we saw the descendants of Anak there. ²⁹ The Amalekites dwell in the land of the Negeb. The Hittites, the Jebusites, and the Amorites dwell in the hill country. And the Canaanites dwell by the sea, and along the Jordan.” ³⁰ But Caleb quieted the people before Moses and said, “Let us go up at once and occupy it, for we are well able to overcome it.” ³¹ Then the men who had gone up with him said, “We are not able to go up against the people, for they are stronger than we are.” (Numbers 13:26-31)

The Positive Report (26-27): The spies confirmed that the land was flowing with milk and honey. Deuteronomy 1:25 quotes the spies as saying, “The land the Lord our God is giving us is good.” Good in Hebrew is the same word God used to describe creation in Genesis.

The Negative Report (28-29): While the land was good, the spies had serious reservations about the people and the large, fortified cities. The people were giants (descendants of Anak) and the spies like grasshoppers. The listed the people who lived in the land they had explored. They said the people were courageous (had made themselves strong – the same word Moses had used to encourage the spies).

Caleb’s Reaction (30-31): Caleb was ready to advance into Canaan. He did not deny or argue about the report of the other spies. Joshua agreed with Caleb (Numbers 14:5-9).

Challenge: Has anything kept you from carrying out a task God has given you? Do you view the task in human terms?

“It is not the strength of then body that counts, but the strength of the Spirit” J. R. R. Tolkien

Numbers: Moses' Reconnaissance

Sun, 16 Nov 2025 12:54:58 GMT

²¹ So they went up and spied out the land from the wilderness of Zin to Rehob, near Lebo-hamath. ²² They went up into the Negeb and came to Hebron. Ahiman, Sheshai, and Talmai, the descendants of Anak, were there. (Hebron was built seven years before Zoan in Egypt.) ²³ And they came to the Valley of Eshcol and cut down from there a branch with a single cluster of grapes, and they carried it on a pole between two of them; they also brought some pomegranates and figs. ²⁴ That place was called the Valley of Eshcol, because of the cluster that the people of Israel cut down from there. ²⁵ At the end of forty days they returned from spying out the land. (Numbers 13:21-25)

They journeyed as far north as the head water of the Orontes River which flows north into the Mediterranean Sea northeast of Beirut, Lebanon. The explored the Negev on the south of Canaan, which is an arid region not suitable for, agriculture.

Here they encounter the Anakin or descendants of Anak, a giant people. Three powerful leaders were mentioned.

Next the scouts moved through the Eshcol Valley near Hebron where they harvested the large cluster of grapes that had to be carried by two men on a pole. The Greek geographer and historian, Strabo, reported that clusters of grapes near Antioch were as much as three feet in length.

On their journey they passed through land that was suitable for grazing and herding, land for raising grain, and that suitable for raising fruit and vegetables.

The spies spent forty days on their survey. It is estimated that the distance between Kadesh and Rehob in the north as about 150 miles. We can assume that they traveled at least 300 miles.

Challenge: When preparing for a God-given task, what do you consider? What resources are available?

“God makes a promise faith believes it; hope anticipates it; patience quietly awaits it.” D.L. Moody

Numbers: Moses' Investigation

Sun, 09 Nov 2025 13:11:46 GMT

¹⁷ When Moses sent them to scout out the land of Canaan, he told them, “Go up this way to the Negev, then go up into the hill country. ¹⁸ See what the land is like, and whether the people who live there are strong or weak, few or many. ¹⁹ Is the land they live in good or bad? Are the cities they live in encampments or fortifications? ²⁰ Is the land fertile or unproductive? Are there trees in it or not? Be courageous. Bring back some fruit from the land.” It was the season for the first ripe grapes. (Numbers 13:17-20)

Moses appointed twelve men, one from each tribe, to spy out the land. He wanted to know if the land was it habitable, suitable for growing crops. He also wanted to know if the people were strong or weak, did they live in fortified cities or tents, and how many of them were there?

The purpose the expedition was to determine how to enter the land and the strategy needed to conquer it. It was not to determine if they could enter the land.

Indications are that they traveled together which meant they were at considerable risk from the inhabitants; therefore, Moses command them to be courageous, or “make yourselves strong” or “be single minded” (v20).

Note that the Israelites arrived at Kadesh when the harvest was taking place. A coincidence?

Challenge: How do you approach a God-given task? Do you determine what is needed and the actions needed for completing it?

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” Proverbs 3:5-6 NIV

Numbers: God's Solution

Sun, 02 Nov 2025 13:05:20 GMT

¹⁶ Then the Lord said to Moses, “Gather for me seventy men of the elders of Israel, whom you know to be the elders of the people and officers over them, and bring them to the tent of meeting, and let them take their stand there with you. ¹⁷ And I will come down and talk with you there. And I will take some of the Spirit that is on you and put it on them, and they shall bear the burden of the people with you, so that you may not bear it yourself alone. (Numbers 11:16-17)

The Lord Provides Help (16-17): God’s response to the complaints was not to change their diet but to provide Moses help in leading the people. Apparently, Moses had forgotten his father-in-law's (Jethro) advice to delegate leadership responsibilities (Exodus 18).

God’s Instruction (16): The Lord instructed Moses to gather 70 men. They were men who demonstrated wisdom. He told Moses to take them to the tabernacle (tent of meeting) where they would hear God reveal his will and response to Moses’ need.

Sharing the Load (17): God told Moses that he would talk to him in the presence of the elders and he would place his Spirit on them so they could assist him in leading the people. The Lord commissioned or empowered the elders to share the burden of leadership with Moses.

Note: God met the real need not the perceived need.

Challenge: Do you complain about the position the Lord has place you in? Have you delegated your work to the Holy Spirit?

Moreover, look for able men from all the people, men who fear God, who are trustworthy and hate a bribe, and place such men over the people as chiefs of thousands, of hundreds, of fifties, and of tens. ²² And let them judge the people at all times. (Exodus 18:21-22)

Numbers: Complaining

Sun, 26 Oct 2025 12:08:52 GMT

⁴ Now the rabble that was among them had a strong craving. And the people of Israel also wept again and said, “Oh that we had meat to eat! ⁵ We remember the fish we ate in Egypt that cost nothing, the cucumbers, the melons, the leeks, the onions, and the garlic. ⁶ But now our strength is dried up, and there is nothing at all but this manna to look at.” ⁷ Now the manna was like coriander seed, and its appearance like that of bdellium. ⁸ The people went about and gathered it and ground it in handmills or beat it in mortars and boiled it in pots and made cakes of it. And the taste of it was like the taste of cakes baked with oil. ⁹ When the dew fell upon the camp in the night, the manna fell with it. (Hebrews 11:4-9)

The people (called riffraff or rabble) were tired of manna and complained that they had free food and ate better in Egypt. The riffraff was a group of non- Israelites traveling with them who were complaining. This is the ninth of ten times the people referred to how good life was in Egypt. The language implies that they had an inappropriate craving for the past.

Clearly the people had selective memory. They had forgotten that they were slaves in Egypt and that the Lord provided food for them in the desert. They were complaining to the host, the provider. He met their needs even though it was not what they expected or wanted; food that required only gathering and preparation, no other effort was needed on their part.

Jesus compared himself to manna (John 6:35-51). “Whoever eats of his bread will never be hungry but will live forever”

Challenge: Do you think the past was better? Do you complain about the present? Do you overlook God’s blessings, his provision?

"Each day, though it brings its trouble, shall bring its help; and though you should live to outnumber the years of Methuselah, and though your needs should be as many as the sands of the seashore, yet shall God’s grace and mercy last through all your necessities, and you shall never know a real lack." ~ Charles H. Spurgeon

Numbers: Obedience

Sun, 12 Oct 2025 11:47:39 GMT

²² Whether it was two days, or a month, or a longer time, that the cloud continued over the tabernacle, abiding there, the people of Israel remained in camp and did not set out, but when it lifted they set out. ²³ At the command of the Lord they camped, and at the command of the Lord they set out. They kept the charge of the Lord, at the command of the Lord by Moses. (Numbers 9:22-23)

Numbers describes (1) God’s preparation of Israel for the promised land, (2) the journey from Sinai to Kadesh Barnea, and (3) the 40 years in the wilderness.

The people watched the cloud and when it moved, they moved. When it stopped, they stopped. They obeyed. Some believe that Moses assigned people to watch the cloud.

These verses indicate that the movement of the cloud was abrupt. There were no alarm bells or warning. The Cloud just moved. God is a God of certainty. There is no indication that the movement of the cloud was uncertain. There was no question. God is decisive, and the people obeyed.

Their obedience involved an effort. They had to dismantle and pack the tabernacle. It is estimated that there were 8500 Levites to do that job. With out a doubt they were prepared and organized for the task.

Challenge: Today, we do not have a cloud. So how do you know that God is always there? How can you be certain, even when you do not feel his presence. How do you know when to start, when to stop, or where to go? How do you get directions from God?

"[Having Faith in Christ] means, of course, trying to do all that He says. There would be no sense in saying you trusted a person if you would not take his advice. Thus, if you have really handed yourself over to Him, it must follow that you are trying to obey Him. But trying in a new way, a less worried way." C. S. Lewis

Numbers: God's Direction

Sun, 05 Oct 2025 18:30:50 GMT

¹⁷ And whenever the cloud lifted from over the tent, after that the people of Israel set out, and in the place where the cloud settled down, there the people of Israel camped. ¹⁸ At the command of the Lord the people of Israel set out, and at the command of the Lord they camped. As long as the cloud rested over the tabernacle, they remained in camp. ¹⁹ Even when the cloud continued over the tabernacle many days, the people of Israel kept the charge of the Lord and did not set out. ²⁰ Sometimes the cloud was a few days over the tabernacle, and according to the command of the Lord they remained in camp; then according to the command of the Lord they set out. ²¹ And sometimes the cloud remained from evening until morning. And when the cloud lifted in the morning, they set out, or if it continued for a day and a night, when the cloud lifted they set out. (Numbers 9:17-21)

The cloud was God’s signal for the people to move (set out) and stop (camp). When the cloud moved, the people packed up and set out following its movement. The cloud provided certainty and comfort. They did not need a calendar, clock, or compass. Some speculate that Moses appointed people to watch the cloud. Yet there was uncertainty. They never knew when the cloud was going to move.

The Amplified version says that the cloud was “taken up” (v21). God lifted it up. it was not a morning fog. Further, When God moved, the people moved. They responded to God’s direction.

Challenge: Have you had to wait for something? Why does the Lord make us wait?

Is waiting difficult? Can you live with uncertainty, waiting on God?

“To love God is to love His will. It is to wait quietly for life to be measured by One who knows us through and through. It is to be content with His timing and His wise appointment.” Elisabeth Elliott

Numbers: The Cloud

Sun, 28 Sep 2025 11:52:13 GMT

¹⁵ On the day that the tabernacle was set up, the cloud covered the tabernacle, the tent of the testimony. And at evening it was over the tabernacle like the appearance of fire until morning. ¹⁶ So it was always: the cloud covered it by day and the appearance of fire by night. (Numbers 9:15-16)

God’s Presence These verses are repeat the event at the end of Exodus: the erection of the tabernacle and the cloud representing God’s Prescence descending over it.

The tabernacle was 150 feet in length and 75 feet wide. The outer courtyard posts with curtains between and an inner tented structure was 15x30 feet and was called the tent of testimony because it contained the ark of the covenant, an outer room, and the Holy of Holies with the ark of the covenant with the tablet of the law given to Moses at Mt. Sinai.

From these verses we can see that the cloud covered or rested over the tabernacle by day and fire by night. The cloud was there continuously. Some scholars believe the cloud glowed like fire at night.

The bottom line is God’s promise to be present with his people. These verses state that God’s presence was visible. God, or his representation was visible.

Challenge: How does God show his presence today? How do we know that God is present today?

Let it be your business to keep your mind on the presence of the Lord. Throughout your day, don’t let it wander too far so that you are accustomed to think of him often, you will find it easy to keep your mind calm in the time of prayer. Brother Lawrence

Hebrews: Final Greetings

Sun, 21 Sep 2025 12:07:13 GMT

²² I appeal to you, brothers, bear with my word of exhortation, for I have written to you briefly. ²³ You should know that our brother Timothy has been released, with whom I shall see you if he comes soon. ²⁴ Greet all your leaders and all the saints. Those who come from Italy send you greetings. ²⁵ Grace be with all of you.

The writer ends by urging his readers to give attention to what he has written. He adds a note about Timothy who will accompany him when he comes to them. In the meantime, greet your leaders and the believers.

Resources Used in the Study of Hebrews

ESV Study Bible , (Wheaton, IL, Crossway Bibles, 2008).

The NIV Study Bible (Grand Rapids, MI, Zondervan, 1985).

Guthrie, Donald, Hebrews: An Introduction and Commentary (Lisle, IL: IVF, 1957).

Hodges, Zane C., Hebrews , in The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures, Walvoord, John F., Zuch, Roy B., ed., (Victory Books/Scripture Press, 1985.

Stedman, Ray C., Hebrews , The IVP New Testament Commentary Series (Westmont, IL: IVP Academic, 1992).

Hebrews: Benediction

Sun, 14 Sep 2025 11:59:08 GMT

²⁰ Now may the God of peace who brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, the great shepherd of the sheep, by the blood of the eternal covenant, ²¹ equip you with everything good that you may do his will, working in us that which is pleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen. (Hebrews 13:20-21)

In conclusion , the writer follows a New Testament practice of asking for God’s blessing on his readers. In so doing he captured several themes in the letter: peace, blood, covenant, shepherd, equip, etc. He notes that it is the Lord working in him and his readers to produce that which delights the Lord. He leaves the end a reference to the resurrection while everything he has written before is based on it.

Challenge: Does your life reflect what the writer describes here? Is the Lord working like this in your life?

Christ in me, the hope of Glory. Colossians 1:27

Hebrews: Closing Comments

Sun, 07 Sep 2025 11:41:14 GMT

Hebrews: Closing Comments

¹⁷ Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they are keeping watch over your souls, as those who will have to give an account. Let them do this with joy and not with groaning, for that would be of no advantage to you.

¹⁸ Pray for us, for we are sure that we have a clear conscience, desiring to act honorably in all things. ¹⁹ I urge you the more earnestly to do this in order that I may be restored to you the sooner. (Hebrews 13:17-19)

Obey Your Leaders (17): The author has moved on from encouraging believers to model their former leaders (13:7) and now commands them give their leaders joy by their obedience and submission. By their submission and obedience, they lighten the load on leaders and bring them joy in the responsibilities they bear.

Pray for Me (18-19): The author asks for prayer for himself and those with him and assures his readers of the integrity of their ministry. He emphasizes the need to pray in terms of his desire to return to the fellowship quickly.

Challenge: Do you stand behind your churches leadership in prayer and action? Do you encourage them by obedience and submission?

The task of future Christian leaders is not to make a little contribution to the solution of the pains and tribulations of their time, but to identify and announce the ways in which Jesus is leading God's people out of slavery, through the desert to a new land of freedom. Henri Nouwen

Hebrews: Sacrifice

Sun, 31 Aug 2025 12:02:18 GMT

¹⁰ We have an altar from which those who serve the tent have no right to eat. ¹¹ For the bodies of those animals whose blood is brought into the holy places by the high priest as a sacrifice for sin are burned outside the camp. ¹² So Jesus also suffered outside the gate in order to sanctify the people through his own blood. ¹³ Therefore let us go to him outside the camp and bear the reproach he endured. ¹⁴ For here we have no lasting city, but we seek the city that is to come. ¹⁵ Through him then let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that acknowledge his name. ¹⁶ Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God. (Hebrews 13:10-16)

Contrast Then and Now (10-12): the writer makes a clear distinction between the practices and rituals of the old covenant with the new life in Christ. (1) Altar – the sacrificial system replaced by the cross; (2) No right to eat – the priest prohibited from eating the meat of sacrifices replaced by nourishment from Christ, the great Sin Offering (John 6:53-56) or communion (Mark 14:22-26); (3) Burned outside the camp – the burning of the residue of sacrifices outside the camp (Lev 4:11-12) was replaced by Jesus death on the cross outside the city of Jerusalem.

Outside the Camp (13-14): The writer urges his readers to separate themselves from their past beliefs and rituals, set themselves Judaism (outside the camp), and by doing so, experience first-hand the suffering of Christ. By accepting Christ’s sacrifice, believers become sojourners in a foreign land and seek a permanent dwelling, a dwelling yet to come (see 11:10, 12:22). Further, the people moving from a camp (temporary) to a city, that is, becoming a new (permanent) spiritual community.

Our sacrifices (15-16): In contrast to animal sacrifices, we are to offer the sacrifice of praise and meet the needs of others thereby sacrificing our time, talents and treasure.

Challenge: Are you feasting on the Lord? Have you separated yourself from the past? Do you long for a permanent dwelling where you have unhindered fellowship with then Lord and offer a continual sacrifice of praise?

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. 2 Corinthians 5:17

Hebrews: Model Your Life

Sun, 24 Aug 2025 11:58:02 GMT

⁷ Remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God. Consider the outcome of their way of life, and imitate their faith. ⁸ Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever. ⁹ Do not be led away by diverse and strange teachings, for it is good for the heart to be strengthened by grace, not by foods, which have not benefited those devoted to them. (Hebrews 13:7-9)

Remember (7): The writer urges his readers to remember their leaders who were perhaps no longer with them but who ministered through the Word. They were mentors and as disciples they were to follow their example of faith.

Jesus the Cornerstone (8): The author links the ministry and faithfulness of the leaders with a caution against false teaching by pointing to Jesus, the cornerstone of the leaders’ faith and his audience’s faith.

For By Grace (9): The argument here is, to a degree, against legalism. That is achieving spiritual maturity through a regimen of eating or not eating certain foods. The author reminds his readers that, like salvation, maturity is by grace.

Challenge: Who is mentoring you in the faith? What tools do you use for spiritual growth? Is growing spiritually a ritual or a discipline?

“God will test you because he wants you to grow up. He wants you to mature. He wants you to develop a walk with him that is not based on your fluctuating emotions but on your commitment to him as you learn to walk by faith.” Greg Laurie

Hebrews:Sacrifices Pleasing to God

Sun, 17 Aug 2025 12:03:58 GMT

13 Let brotherly love continue. ² Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares. ³ Remember those who are in prison, as though in prison with them, and those who are mistreated, since you also are in the body. ⁴ Let marriage be held in honor among all, and let the marriage bed be undefiled, for God will judge the sexually immoral and adulterous. ⁵ Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” ⁶ So we can confidently say,

“The Lord is my helper;

I will not fear;

what can man do to me?”

Show Brotherly Love (1): The writer exhorts his readers to be set apart from the world by the love they show toward their fellow believers (John 13:35). Stedman sees this in terms of providing material support. (1 Peter 1:22).

Be Hospitable (2): The writer urges believers to outside the Body by meeting the needs of other, specifically travelers as his Old Testament references imply (Genesis 18; Judges 6 and 13).

Consider Prisoners and the Mistreated (3): Believers are to meet the needs of those who have imprisoned and others who are of have been persecuted.

Preserve Marriage (4): Here the warning is to keep marriage inviolate and avoid defiling it with sexual immorality. God holds marriage (and the family) to be a sacred cornerstone of society.

Be Contented (5): Because God will provide the needs of believers (Matthew 6:25-34), the author urges them to be satisfied with whey they have and to remain steadfast in their faith on the Lord’s promise to be personally present, that is, not depend on riches and stuff.

Evidence (6): Believers are to demonstrate these characteristics as evidence of the Lord at work, a testimony to the world.

Challenge: Does the Spirit make these qualities a reallity in your life?

Be a laser illuminating the path for dark and dying world.

Hebrews: Fifth and Final Warning

Sun, 10 Aug 2025 12:14:50 GMT

²⁵ See that you do not refuse him who is speaking. For if they did not escape when they refused him who warned them on earth, much less will we escape if we reject him who warns from heaven. ²⁶ At that time his voice shook the earth, but now he has promised, “Yet once more I will shake not only the earth but also the heavens.” ²⁷ This phrase, “Yet once more,” indicates the removal of things that are shaken—that is, things that have been made—in order that the things that cannot be shaken may remain. ²⁸ Therefore let us be grateful for receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, and thus let us offer to God acceptable worship, with reverence and awe, ²⁹ for our God is a consuming fire. (Hebrews 12:25-29)

Listen to the Lord (25): The warning to his readers is not to disregard the words from the Lord spoken from heaven. The Exodus generation failed to heed the warning (on earth) at the giving of the law and suffered 40 years in the desert. The same will happen to the present generation of believers who do not act on, or persevere, in their faith and respond to the warning given by the Son from heaven (1:1-2). The warning is against apostasy, turning back from the truth they had heard.

Shaken (26-27): The Lord’s voice shook the earth at Mount Sinai to emphasize the importance of the law. But in the future, there will be a final shaking involving not only the earth but all creation and that which will be shaken will be removed. There will be no escape from this shaking. This is drawn from Haggai 2:6 and refers to the time following the millennial kingdom and the creation of a new heaven and earth.

The Unshakable (28-29): The author urges believers to give thanks to the Lord and reflect in amazement that God, who is a consuming fire, has brought them into his kingdom; a kingdom that cannot be shaken nor destroyed by fire (See 2 Peter 3:10).

Challenge: Have you heard “the Voice”? Are you steadfast in the faith? Are you a part of the community that will not be shaken?

Out of Christ, God is a consuming fire. In Christ God is a reconciling Father . Matthew Henry

Hebrews: A Kingdom That Cannot be Shaken

Sun, 03 Aug 2025 12:15:50 GMT

¹⁸ For you have not come to what may be touched, a blazing fire and darkness and gloom and a tempest ¹⁹ and the sound of a trumpet and a voice whose words made the hearers beg that no further messages be spoken to them. ²⁰ For they could not endure the order that was given, “If even a beast touches the mountain, it shall be stoned.” ²¹ Indeed, so terrifying was the sight that Moses said, “I tremble with fear.” ²² But you have come to Mount Zion and to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to innumerable angels in festal gathering, ²³ and to the assembly of the firstborn who are enrolled in heaven, and to God, the judge of all, and to the spirits of the righteous made perfect, ²⁴ and to Jesus, the mediator of a new covenant, and to the sprinkled blood that speaks a better word than the blood of Abel. (Hebrews 12:18-24)

In the following seven verses the writer compares the grandeur of the presentation of the law with the magnificence of the new covenant.

Fear (18-21): When the law was presented the peoples senses were overpowered: touch, heat, light and darkness, and sound. They were so overwhelmed by the message and the occasion that they trembled in fear that more was to come. The impact upon Moses when receiving the law and God’s holiness was such that he was terrified.

Joy (22-24): In contrast, the readers who were under the new covenant had come (1) to Mount Zion and the new heavenly city of the living God; (2) to a place where they could worship freely with angels; (3) to fellowship with those who had gone before under the old and new covenants; (4) to the Lord who inspects and distinguishes against his nature; (5) to those who have become just or righteous through the blood shed by Christ which brings forgiveness and atonement; (6) to Jesus who is their approachable mediator; and (7) to sprinkled blood, not of lambs nor the blood of Able, but that of Jesus that guarantees acceptance for all believers.

Challenge: Who is your heavenly Father? Does he strike fear and hold you at arm’s length or does he bring great joy as the approachable and readily available Lord?

Having the reality of God's presence is not dependent on our being in a particular circumstance or place, but is only dependent on our determination to keep the Lord before us continually. Oswald Chambers

Hebrews: Stay the Course

Sun, 27 Jul 2025 11:21:47 GMT

¹² Therefore lift your drooping hands and strengthen your weak knees, ¹³ and make straight paths for your feet, so that what is lame may not be put out of joint but rather be healed. ¹⁴ Strive for peace with everyone, and for the holiness without which no one will see the Lord. ¹⁵ See to it that no one fails to obtain the grace of God; that no “root of bitterness” springs up and causes trouble, and by it many become defiled; ¹⁶ that no one is sexually immoral or unholy like Esau, who sold his birthright for a single meal. ¹⁷ For you know that afterward, when he desired to inherit the blessing, he was rejected, for he found no chance to repent, though he sought it with tears. (Hebrews 12:12-17)

Endure (12-13): The author, drawing from Isaiah 35:3 and Proverbs 4:26 urges his audience to work together to raise spirits and encourage each other to preserve in the life to which God called them, that is, to be steadfast in their behavior, so they encourage each other and not hinder those weaker in the faith (lame).

Peace with Everyone (14-15) Believers should make every effort to live at peace with others and pursue holiness or the gift of righteousness that flows from a close personal relationship with the Lord. Further, believers are called to guard against hostility or animosity (the bitter root of unbelief) that contaminates a holy life.

Do Not Compromise (16-17) The writer warns his readers not to compromise their faith and descend into sexual immorality or to godlessness as Esau did. Esau gave up the permanent (the blessings of being firstborn) for temporary satisfaction (a bowl of soup). Upon realizing his mistake, he wept over the loss of his position but not his sin. This is the authors warning to his readers not to reject the inheritance that is available to believers.

Challenge: Have you set aside the blessings of salvation for temporary gratification? Do you repent for your sins or mourn the loss of blessings?

“Repentance is the true turning of our life to God, a turning that arises from a pure and earnest fear of Him; and it consists in the mortification of the flesh and the renewing of the Spirit.” John Calvin

Hebrews: Discipline

Sun, 20 Jul 2025 12:08:05 GMT

⁷ It is for discipline that you have to endure. God is treating you as sons. For what son is there whom his father does not discipline? ⁸ If you are left without discipline, in which all have participated, then you are illegitimate children and not sons. ⁹ Besides this, we have had earthly fathers who disciplined us and we respected them. Shall we not much more be subject to the Father of spirits and live? ¹⁰ For they disciplined us for a short time as it seemed best to them, but he disciplines us for our good, that we may share his holiness. ¹¹ For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it. (Hebrews 12:7-11)

Rightful Children of God (7-8): Having introduced the connection between discipline and God’s love as a father in the previous verses, the writer now emphasizes the need for endurance when faced with the difficulties of life. Believers are not to be discouraged in their struggles as it proves their position as a child of God and therefore, requires perseverance. The Father has expectations for his children, and his discipline prepares them to meet those expectations.

For Their Good (9-10): The author continues by showing that if earthly fathers imperfectly discipline their children out of love, believers should expect the Lord to discipline them out of his perfect love. Further, an earthly father’s discipline generates a child’s respect. In the spiritual realm, believers gain a deeper love and admiration for the Lord through his discipline. Further, the Father’s discipline is life sustaining. Therefore, believers are to submit to the Lord and his discipline and respect his actions for the benefit they bring.

Productive (11): The Lord’s discipline, while painful for a time, is intended to draw believers into a deeper, more productive relationship with him.

Challenge: When you are mired in the struggles and challenges of Life, do you stop to consider the benefits. Do you see your struggles and challenges as an end in themselves, or a means to a healthy end.

The job of a coach is to make men do what they don’t want to do, in order to be what they’ve always wanted to be. Tom Landry

Hebrews: Do Not Grow Weary

Sun, 13 Jul 2025 11:10:13 GMT

³ Consider him who endured from sinners such hostility against himself, so that you may not grow weary or fainthearted. ⁴ In your struggle against sin you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding your blood. ⁵ And have you forgotten the exhortation that addresses you as sons?

“My son, do not regard lightly the discipline of the Lord,

nor be weary when reproved by him.

⁶ For the Lord disciplines the one he loves,

and chastises every son whom he receives.” (Hebrews 12:3-6)

Follow Jesus Example (3-4): For the third time, the author urges his readers to think about or give careful assessment of the hardship Jesus went through (3:1 and 12:2). This time the focus is on the Lord’s endurance in the face of trials and tribulations thereby setting an example for believers. Not only do they need to persist or stand firm in the face of oppression and opposition, but they need to stand firm against sins. He reminds his readers their difficulties have not led to martyrdom – the shedding of blood.

God’s Discipline (5-6): The writer, concerned about his audience ignoring or taking too lightly the Lord’s discipline, quotes Soloman’s message to his son (Proverbs 3:11-12). This is a reminder that God instructs, trains, and corrects those he loves. Therefore, his readers are to endure hardships because they Strengthen one’s relationship with the Lord.

Challenge: Are you encouraged when going through trials, tribulations and struggles. Do you see them as a means of refining your faith? Do you see difficult situations as preparation for life ahead?

Divine discipline is God’s merciful expression of His love for children who deserve His wrath but will never receive it. Brian Chapell

Hebrews: Witnesses

Sun, 06 Jul 2025 12:13:36 GMT

Jesus, Founder and Perfecter of Our Faith

12 Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, ² looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God. (Hebrews 12:1-2)

Witnesses (1a): The cloud of witnesses are the Old Testament heroes of the faith who have witnessed God working because of their faith. Those heroes demonstrate that the race can be run successfully, and the prize is great.

Endure (1b): The writer exhorts his readers not to be encumbered by actions and sin that hold them back from a healthy, spirit-led life. The Writer encourages them to keep to the course the Lord has laid out. Sin drains the energy from holy living and the hinderances of our human nature impede our faith journey.

Looking to Jesus (2): Once again, the writer urges his readers to keep their eyes or focus on Jesus (see Hebrews 3:1) and not ourselves. It is Jesus who put us on the path of faith and leads us spiritual maturity. Jesus was the pioneer and model for Christian living. Jesus was not concerned with the shame of the cross. Rather, he looked forward with joy to being seated next to the Father in heaven, just as we should anticipate being with him.

Challenge : What distracts you from your faith? What weighs on your life? What is your focus?

Do all in your power not to fall, for the strong athlete should not fall. But if you do fall, get up again at once and continue the contest. Even if you fall a thousand times…rise up again each time and keep on doing this until the day of your death. Anonymous

Hebrews: Something Better

Sun, 29 Jun 2025 11:55:44 GMT

³⁹ And all these, though commended through their faith, did not receive what was promised, ⁴⁰ since God had provided something better for us, that apart from us they should not be made perfect. (Hebrews 11:39-40)

Something Better: In conclusion, the writer states that those he identified or referenced in general were commended for their faith, thought they did not receive the promised permanent dwelling in their lifetime. For his readers and us, God has provided the blessings of indwelling Spirit under the new covenant. Having the Spirit inspires and encourages his readers and us to live our lives by faith.

Faith is a Journey: First, there is saving faith; belief that Christ died for you. Then comes empowering faith, faith comes by believing in God’s promises. It grows as we experience the resurrected Christ in our lives and his transforming power. Further, believers see their actions making a difference in the lives of others. Faith increases as we believe it is God that works in and through us and by continue acting on that faith.

Challenge: Do you have faith that God can transform your life? Do you believe that God can use you to transform the lives of others? What is your faith testimony?

"Faith is to believe what you do not see; the reward of this faith is to see what you believe." Saint Augustine

Hebrews: The Faith of Six More

Sun, 22 Jun 2025 12:15:07 GMT

³² And what more shall I say? For time would fail me to tell of Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, of David and Samuel and the prophets— ³³ who through faith conquered kingdoms, enforced justice, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions, ³⁴ quenched the power of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, were made strong out of weakness, became mighty in war, put foreign armies to flight. ³⁵ Women received back their dead by resurrection. Some were tortured, refusing to accept release, so that they might rise again to a better life. ³⁶ Others suffered mocking and flogging, and even chains and imprisonment. ³⁷ They were stoned, they were sawn in two, they were killed with the sword. They went about in skins of sheep and goats, destitute, afflicted, mistreated— ³⁸ of whom the world was not worthy—wandering about in deserts and mountains, and in dens and caves of the earth. (Hebrews 11:32-38)

Six Plus Prophets (32): The author continues his discussion on faith by naming four men from the book of Judges, two from the monarchy (David and Samuel) and the prophets; three major periods in the history of Israel. The emphasis in verses 32-38 is on faith; what it brought not the actions of those listed. The exploits of these are mentioned only in general terms to avoid burdening his readers.

Deliverance Through Faith (33-34): They experienced God working through them to conquer kingdoms, make righteousness a standard of society, and God’s promises fulfilled. Further, they saw God deliver Daniel from lions and Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego from the fiery furnace and people from death by the sword. In addition, they saw God bring strength from weakness, life from death, and avoided death by sword. Clearly, their focus was on something greater than themselves.

Endurance Through Faith (35-38): Next the writer addresses the faith of prophets (Elijah and Elisha) through whom the Lord raised the sons of the widow and Shunamite women. Then the author moves on to the faith of those who endured beatings and torture and did not recant their beliefs knowing that in the end a better life awaited them. He addresses the perseverance of Israelites experienced in the face of disdain, torment, restraints and confinement for their faith throughout their history. Finally, he addresses the faith of those who experienced violent death, extreme hardship, loneliness, and destitution because of their faith. All of whom were of greater stature than those considered great by the world.

Challenge : Are you living a life counter to the culture? Are you standing firm on the solid rock of faith in Christ? Does your life draw criticism from those around you? Have you been ridiculed for your faith? If so, how did you respond? Did you take the contempt personally? Who, in reality, is being ridiculed?

"The greatest legacy one can pass on to one's children and grandchildren is not money or other material things accumulated in one's life, but rather a legacy of character and faith." — Billy Graham

Hebrews: The Faith of the Israelites

Sun, 15 Jun 2025 12:17:43 GMT

²⁹ By faith the people crossed the Red Sea as on dry land, but the Egyptians, when they attempted to do the same, were drowned. ³⁰ By faith the walls of Jericho fell down after they had been encircled for seven days. ³¹ By faith Rahab the prostitute did not perish with those who were disobedient, because she had given a friendly welcome to the spies. (Hebrews 11:29-31)

Corporate Faith (29): The author moves on to the faith of the people who left Egypt and crossed the Red Sea under Moses leadership. In so doing they experienced God’s hand in delivering them death at the hand of Pharoah and his army. This is an example of the faith of a group that flows out of the faith of individuals.

Walls of Jericho (30): The destruction of Jericho is another example of group faith. It was not about just walking around the city, it was doing it for seven days and seven times on the seventh day (Joshua 6:1-21). It is faith when God’s solution does not appear to match the obstacle. Faith is believing when we do not see a solution or when God’s direction does not match the situation, when God’s direction does not seem to address reality.

Rahab (31): The author returns to the faith of an individual, Rahab. Rahab, along with the people of Jericho, had heard about the power of the God of Israel. The people of Jericho were disobedient while Rahab placed her faith in the Lord (Joshua 2:8-9). She hid the spies, and the Lord spared her and her family, keeping the promise made to her by the spies (Joshaua 6:22). Here God responded to the faith of a Gentile woman and a harlot.

Challenge: Is your faith encouraged by the faith of others? Do you encourage others in their faith. Do you take faith-filled risks? Have you experienced God’s blessing because you took faith-filled risks.

Courage is contagious. When a brave man takes a stand, the spines of others are often stiffened. Billy Graham

Hebrews: The Faith of Moses

Sun, 08 Jun 2025 12:21:13 GMT

²³ By faith Moses, when he was born, was hidden for three months by his parents, because they saw that the child was beautiful, and they were not afraid of the king’s edict. ²⁴ By faith Moses, when he was grown up, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh’s daughter, ²⁵ choosing rather to be mistreated with the people of God than to enjoy the fleeting pleasures of sin. ²⁶ He considered the reproach of Christ greater wealth than the treasures of Egypt, for he was looking to the reward. ²⁷ By faith he left Egypt, not being afraid of the anger of the king, for he endured as seeing him who is invisible. ²⁸ By faith he kept the Passover and sprinkled the blood, so that the Destroyer of the firstborn might not touch them. (Hebrews 11:23-28)

Parenting by faith (23): Moses parents kept his birth a secret because Pharoah had commanded midwifes to kill new-born male Hebrew children (Ex 1:16). By faith Moses’ parents hid him from Pharaoh because they thought him to be no ordinary child and they were not afraid of Pharaoh.

Rejecting Privilege by Faith (24-26): While Moses was raised in the Pharoah’s palace, he knew his Hebrew heritage. By faith he gave up his right to the throne of Egypt and the pagan lifestyle for the life of a Hebrew slave. The author linked the earthly rewards Moses gave up and the suffering he experienced with that of Christ forgoing heaven to identify with and share in the suffering of his people. Faith is how believers navigate opposition and hostility.

Leading by Faith (27-28): Further, fearing God’s purposes would be thwarted, he fled Egypt and became a shepherd in the desert. There he encountered the great “I Am” at the burning bush. Showing no fear, he returned to Egypt where he instructed the people in preparing the Passover meal and spreading the blood of lambs on their door posts to protect from the angel of death. These actions further separated the Hebrews from the Egyptians.

Living by Faith: Moses demonstrated faith by living counterculture, following God’s direction when it made no sense, and consistently moving forward in the face of opposition. Moses acted in faith and God delivered.

Challenge: How do you face fear? Do you step out based on God’s promises? What does God promise in your situation? Can he part the “Red Sea” in your life?

"Faith is led confidently to expect what reason would never suggest." Spurgeon

Hebrews: The Faith of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and Joseph

Sun, 01 Jun 2025 12:36:59 GMT

¹⁷ By faith Abraham, when he was tested, offered up Isaac, and he who had received the promises was in the act of offering up his only son, ¹⁸ of whom it was said, “Through Isaac shall your offspring be named.” ¹⁹ He considered that God was able even to raise him from the dead, from which, figuratively speaking, he did receive him back. ²⁰ By faith Isaac invoked future blessings on Jacob and Esau. ²¹ By faith Jacob, when dying, blessed each of the sons of Joseph, bowing in worship over the head of his staff. ²² By faith Joseph, at the end of his life, made mention of the exodus of the Israelites and gave directions concerning his bones. (Hebrews 11:17-22)

Abraham (17-19): Next, the author discusses Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice Isaac, an act that contradicts the specific promise that his son would be the heir through whom Abraham’s lineage would continue. He believed that the Lord would restore Isaac to life. Some see Isaac as a type of Christ, the only son sacrificed and restored to life. Abraham believed that his caring Lord was able to come through in this catastrophic situation.

Isaac, Jacob, and Joseph (20-22): Isaac demonstrated faith, by blessing his sons with certainty in the future (Genesis 27:28-29, 39-40). Jacob blessed his twelve sons plus grandsons (Ephraim and Manasseh) with a view toward the coming of the nation of Israel (Genesis 50:24-25). Joseph’s faith in the future was demonstrated by his mention of the Israelites’ departure from Egypt and directing that his bones be carried to the promised land. The writer’s intent is for his readers to live out their faith believing that there is a better future even when facing death. Through faith they saw their future though, at the time, it was not visible.

Challenge: Do you have faith that the Jesus’ sacrificial death and resurrection was for you personally? Do you have faith to obey when the Lord asks you to move out of your comfort zone. Are you willing to take faith-filled risks?

Hebrews: Seeking a Better Country

Sun, 25 May 2025 12:26:48 GMT

¹³ These all died in faith, not having received the things promised, but having seen them and greeted them from afar, and having acknowledged that they were strangers and exiles on the earth. ¹⁴ For people who speak thus make it clear that they are seeking a homeland. ¹⁵ If they had been thinking of that land from which they had gone out, they would have had opportunity to return. ¹⁶ But as it is, they desire a better country, that is, a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared for them a city. (Hebrews 11:13-16)

Exiles (13): The writer pauses to summarize the hope that the previously listed people of faith had for a better, permanent dwelling place. They died Expecting God to fulfill his promises. Yet they remained faithful to their very personal convictions to the end. While they were living in a land promised by God, they lived in tents awaiting a more permanent dwelling.

Tents (14-16a): In Abraham’s and Sarah’s case, if they were looking for something more permanent, they could have returned to Haran and a more advanced civilization. In faith and obedience, they moved to a strange land where they lived in tents. Their hope and longing was for both a physical and spiritual home They longed a place not made by human hands (11:10). The writer’s appeal may have been to curb any thoughts his readers may have had toward returning to Judaism. The focus is on an envisioned spiritual realm made by God rather than a physical, visible world created by humans.

A Better Country (16b): The author closes these thoughts by connecting the promised land with God’s love and care his people and the place he prepared for them. This despite their failures. He was their God.

Challenge: Are you seeking a better life here or one to come? Can you envision the life to come? Do you know that the Lord is not ashamed to call you his child despite your failures. Do you identify with the faith described here?

" No matter what has happened to you in the past or what is going on in your life right now, it has no power to keep you from having an amazingly good future if you will walk by faith in God. God loves you! He wants you to live with victory over sin so you can possess His promises for your life today!" — Joyce Meyer

Hebrews: The Faith of Abraham and Sarah

Sun, 18 May 2025 12:28:53 GMT

⁸ By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out to a place that he was to receive as an inheritance. And he went out, not knowing where he was going. ⁹ By faith he went to live in the land of promise, as in a foreign land, living in tents with Isaac and Jacob, heirs with him of the same promise. ¹⁰ For he was looking forward to the city that has foundations, whose designer and builder is God. ¹¹ By faith Sarah herself received power to conceive, even when she was past the age, since she considered him faithful who had promised. ¹² Therefore from one man, and him as good as dead, were born descendants as many as the stars of heaven and as many as the innumerable grains of sand by the seashore. (Hebrews 11:8-12)

Abraham (8-10): Genesis chapter 12 tells the story of God’s calling Abraham to Leave the comfort of family and friends in Haran to a land the Lord would show him. Clearly, he had a relationship with the Lord because he heard his voice. He left Haran depending on God to guide him to the promised land. For Abraham it was a pilgrimage, living like a stranger in tents, waiting the city built by God, looking for stability. Not only did Abraham hear God, but he also obeyed. Unlike Noah, the Lord did not give him a complete set of instructions. Abraham displayed trust and obedience.

Sarah (11): Sarah believed correctly that she could not give birth when she was 90 years old, and Abraham was “as good as dead.” Sarah is an example of developing faith. That began when the Lord asked her if “anything was too hard” for him. She began living in faith, accepted God’s promise, and launched the increase detailed in verse 12. By her faith, she became a partner in God’s promise to Abraham. Like Abraham, she listened to the Lord. She believed the impossible.

Descendents ( 12): The writer concludes these thoughts by describing the fulfillment of the promise to Abraham that his descendants would be a numerous as the stars in the heavens and grains of sand on the seashore. This promise can be viewed from both a spiritual (heavenly seed, stars) and a physical or earthly (sand) perspective. The promises in these verses encompass both near-term and future events.

Challenge: What are you hearing from the Lord? Are you willing to leave your comfort zone and respond to God’s call to move into the unknown? Do you believe that the Lord can and will do the impossible? Do you view life in spiritual as well as physical terms?

"The answer to our fears is faith—real, fear-shrinking faith—in the God who loves us and gave himself for us." — Jani Ortlund

Hebrews: The Faith of Abel, Enoch, and Noah

Sun, 11 May 2025 12:12:57 GMT

⁴ By faith Abel offered to God a more acceptable sacrifice than Cain, through which he was commended as righteous, God commending him by accepting his gifts. And through his faith, though he died, he still speaks. ⁵ By faith Enoch was taken up so that he should not see death, and he was not found, because God had taken him. Now before he was taken he was commended as having pleased God. ⁶ And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him. ⁷ By faith Noah, being warned by God concerning events as yet unseen, in reverent fear constructed an ark for the saving of his household. By this he condemned the world and became an heir of the righteousness that comes by faith.

Abel (4): Abel’s sacrifice was more acceptable than Cain’s because it was offered in faith and not as a ritual. It is believed that God’s acceptance of Abel’s offering was based on the condition of his heart not its content. In contrast, consider Cain’s jealous, angry heart that led him to murder his brother. God accepted Abel as a person, that is, saved him from eternal death. Faith is evident in a devoted heart.

Enoch (5-6): Enoch’s life was contrary to the age in which he lived. He had a personal relationship with God (he “walked with God” (Genesis 5:22), was accepted by God, and was taken up. He pleased God and did not die. Enoch exemplifies that pleasing God is an action based on a conviction or commitment. It is living on the trust that God exists and that he will bless those who follow him (v3). The result is life everlasting. The obedient life is based on faith.

Noah (7): Hearing and acting on the warning from God on the pending flood, Noah constructed an ark to save his family. His life and faith-based actions were sharply different from that of the unbelieving, resisting culture. As a result, God declared him righteous. Faith is obedient action in the face uncertainty and opposition.

Challenge: What is the condition of your heart? Are you walking with the Lord? How strong is your faith? Are you willing to act despite resistance and uncertainty? Are you righteous.

"Faith is a living, daring confidence in God's grace, so sure and certain that a man could stake his life on it a thousand times." — Martin Luther

Hebrews: Faith is . . .

Sun, 04 May 2025 12:31:27 GMT

Hebrews: Faith is . . .

Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. ² For by it the people of old received their commendation. ³ By faith we understand that the universe was created by the word of God, so that what is seen was not made out of things that are visible. (Hebrews 11:1-3)

After quoting Habakkuk’s statement (10:38) that righteousness comes from faith, the writer defines faith.

The Essence of Faith (1): Biblical faith is the confidence of things hoped for, a firm certainty, not vague, imaginary thinking about a future event. An unshaken belief, an assured expectation that what God has promised will take place. It leads to endurance and perseverance under any circumstance. Faith is a state or condition and activity, an application, a commitment.

Faith is Rewarded (2): Living out biblical faith brings acceptance by the Lord and eternal life. The “people of old” whose names he lists in the rest of the chapter, a cloud of witnesses, exemplify walking by faith and receiving God’s approval even in the most challenging situations even when it appeared that God’s promises might not be realized. By means of this brief statement, the author urges his readers to consider their own faith.

Faith is a State of Mind (3): Biblical faith brings a sense of wellbeing. It is a view of life and the world based on the understanding that the invisible God spoke creation into existence. It is the mind set by which we acknowledge that everything is under God’s control.

It has been said: “Biblical hope is the excited anticipation of an assured thing.”

Challenge: How do you define faith? How would you compare your faith with that of the culture? Can your God do the impossible? How would you describe the faith of your parents and grandparents? What is their faith testimony? On a scale of 1 to 10, how comfortable are you living out your faith in a contrarian society? Are you willing to die for your faith?

“I have never been to the North Pole, and yet I believe there is a North Pole. How do I know? I know because somebody told me. I read about it in a history book, I saw a map in a geography book, and I believe the men who wrote those books. I accept it by faith. Billy Graham

Hebrews: A Community of Faith

Sun, 27 Apr 2025 19:24:31 GMT

³² But recall the former days when, after you were enlightened, you endured a hard struggle with sufferings, ³³ sometimes being publicly exposed to reproach and affliction, and sometimes being partners with those so treated. ³⁴ For you had compassion on those in prison, and you joyfully accepted the plundering of your property, since you knew that you yourselves had a better possession and an abiding one. ³⁵ Therefore do not throw away your confidence, which has a great reward. ³⁶ For you have need of endurance, so that when you have done the will of God you may receive what is promised. ³⁷ For,

“Yet a little while,

and the coming one will come and will not delay;

³⁸ but my righteous one shall live by faith,

and if he shrinks back,

my soul has no pleasure in him.”

³⁹ But we are not of those who shrink back and are destroyed, but of those who have faith and preserve their souls. (Hebrews 10:32-39).

Withstanding Opposition (32-33): The writer encourages the believers by reminding them of the challenges, trials and tribulations that they experienced upon entering the new life. Some through sharing in the suffering of others in the community of believers. Apparently, some of the distress they experienced was officially sanctioned.

Living the Faith (34-36): The writer compliments and encourages his audience’s attitude, behavior and service to others that came with their new faith. They did not give up. He urges them to remain confident in their faith and steadfastly pursue the will of God as they look forward to their eternal reward.

Endure to the End (37-38): He reminds his fellow believers to be unwavering in their faith by quoting Habakkuk 2:3-4 with a slight adjustment from the original. He changes revelation to a person, Christ. The quotation includes a warning to be faithful for a little while, either until the trial passes, death comes, or the return of the Lord. They are to understand that the righteous live by faith.

An Enduring Faith (39): The author concludes the warning against “trampling underfoot the Son of God” by encouraging his fellow believers to stay firm in their faith, not “shrink back and be destroyed.” He and his fellow believers will remain faithful in living out their salvation. And with that, he moves on to the well-known discourse on faith.

Challenge: Are you keeping the faith? Are you obedient in the face of distractions and temptations?

Too many Christians have a commitment of convenience. They'll stay faithful as long as it's safe and doesn't involve risk, rejection, or criticism. Instead of standing alone in the face of challenge or temptation, they check to see which way their friends are going. Charles Stanley

Hebrews: Trampling God's Grace

Sun, 30 Mar 2025 12:03:41 GMT

²⁶ For if we go on sinning deliberately after receiving the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins, ²⁷ but a fearful expectation of judgment, and a fury of fire that will consume the adversaries. ²⁸ Anyone who has set aside the law of Moses dies without mercy on the evidence of two or three witnesses. ²⁹ How much worse punishment, do you think, will be deserved by the one who has trampled underfoot the Son of God, and has profaned the blood of the covenant by which he was sanctified, and has outraged the Spirit of grace? ³⁰ For we know him who said, “Vengeance is mine; I will repay.” And again, “The Lord will judge his people.” ³¹ It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God. (Hebrews 10:26-31)

Judgement for Rejecting Salvation (26-27): The writer warns his readers who had heard and knew and understood the truth but engaged in intentional or presumptive and unrepentant sin. They were not only violating the law of Moses, but they were rejecting the reality of Christ’s once for all sacrifice for them. He was, in fact, questioning whether they were true believers. He was warning that their actions would lead to God’s fiery judgement. As archer points out (Bible Difficulties, Zondervan, 1982, p420), they had not lost their salvation but only had an intellectual grasp of the truth but had not surrendered their lives to the Lord.

Angering God (28-29): He continues by describing their willful sin as, (1) putting down Christ’s right to govern as the Son of God, (2) nullifying the value of the blood shed for them, and (3) showing contempt for the power of the Holy Spirit’s to transform believer or make them holy. He describes these actions as angering the Spirit of God. These three statements can be rendered as apostasy for which the punishment is greater than that decreed under the law of Moses.

The Vengeance of God (30-31): The author quotes Deuteronomy 32:35-36, as did Paul (Romans 1:17 and Galatians 3:11), and warns his readers that God wants their obedience, or he will bring judgement on enemies or those rejecting God’s offer of salvation.

Challenge: Is your faith genuine? Have you surrendered your life to transforming power of the Holy Spirit? Are you living the new life?

“The Lord knows right well that you cannot change your own heart, and cannot cleanse your own nature; but He also knows that He can do both.” Charles H. Spurgeon

Hebrews: No Longer a Need for Offerings for Sin

Sun, 16 Mar 2025 02:06:23 GMT

Hebrews: No Longer a Need for Offerings for Sin

¹⁵ And the Holy Spirit also bears witness to us; for after saying,

¹⁶ “This is the covenant that I will make with them

after those days, declares the Lord:

I will put my laws on their hearts,

and write them on their minds,”

¹⁷ then he adds,

“I will remember their sins and their lawless deeds no more.”

¹⁸ Where there is forgiveness of these, there is no longer any offering for sin. (Hebrews 10:15-18)

The Promised Indwelling Spirit (15-17): The writer concludes his message on the work of Christ by quoting Jeremiah 31:33-34. This passage promises that under the new covenant, the Holy Spirit will transform the lives of believers. That transformation is the result of the laws of God being placed in their hearts and minds. When believers personally accept Christ’s sacrifice for their sins, God will not remember them. It will be as if they never happened.

No More Sacrifices (18) The author concludes these truths by reminding his readers that because of Christ’s sacrifice for all sins and the accompanying forgiveness, there is no need for further sacrifices.

Challenge: Are you experiencing the reality of the working of the Spirit in you? Are you being transformed? Are you seeing God working through you?

We take what we think are the tools of spiritual transformation into our own hands and try to sculpt ourselves into robust Christlike specimens. But spiritual transformation is primarily the work of the Holy Spirit. He is the Master Sculptor. Jerry Bridges

Hebrews: Perfected

Sun, 09 Mar 2025 12:27:42 GMT

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Hebrews: A New Order

Sun, 02 Mar 2025 13:40:42 GMT

⁸ When he said above, “You have neither desired nor taken pleasure in sacrifices and offerings and burnt offerings and sin offerings” (these are offered according to the law), ⁹ then he added, “Behold, I have come to do your will.” He does away with the first in order to establish the second. ¹⁰ And by that will we have been sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all. (Hebrews 10:8-10)

A New Order (8-10): The writer continued his explanation Psalm 40:6-8 by repeating the differences in the way the old and new covenants dealt with sin. He described Christ as completely replacing the old order of continuing rituals which did not satisfy God and replacing it with a new order (one sacrifice for all). God established the old system of sacrifices to constantly remind people of their sinful nature and the continuing need for forgiveness. His point is that the new order carries out the will of God and that the people sanctified or made holy. The Greek indicates that the result is a lasting state. Christ’s willful action was final and permanent as previously mentioned (7:27 and 9:12). Christ’s perfect offering was something the repeated sacrifices under the old covenant could not do.

Challenge: Are you under the new order? Are you experiencing the new life granted through the shed blood of Jesus Christ? Do you understand that Christ’s willful offering of his life was for you personally?

“Until you see the cross as that which is done by you, you will never appreciate that it is done for you.” John Stott

Hebrews: Sacrifices Required to Deal with Sin

Sun, 23 Feb 2025 13:19:08 GMT

For since the law has but a shadow of the good things to come instead of the true form of these realities, it can never, by the same sacrifices that are continually offered every year, make perfect those who draw near. ² Otherwise, would they not have ceased to be offered, since the worshipers, having once been cleansed, would no longer have any consciousness of sins? ³ But in these sacrifices there is a reminder of sins every year. ⁴ For it is impossible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins.

⁵ Consequently, when Christ came into the world, he said,

“Sacrifices and offerings you have not desired,

but a body have you prepared for me;

⁶ in burnt offerings and sin offerings

you have taken no pleasure.

⁷ Then I said, ‘Behold, I have come to do your will, O God,

as it is written of me in the scroll of the book.’” (Hebrews 10:1-7)

A Constant reminder of Sin (1-4): The writer having described the Mosaic law which established the tabernacle, the priesthood, and repeated sacrifices (7:11-9:28), then laid out the need for a new covenant sacrifice, one found in Christ. The sacrifices under the old covenant were a shadow cast by what was to come, an imperfect representation of reality. Those sacrifices failed to resolve man’s sin issues because they had to be repeated as a continuing reminder of man’s sin nature. The temporary nature of the sacrifices, the blood of bulls and goats, did not remove sins once for all. A permanent, one-time sacrifice was needed.

Christ the Perfect Sacrifice (5-7): The author uses Psalm 40:6-8 which Christ quoted (Matthew 9:13; 12:7) to show that God desires obedience and clean hearts and lives, rather than sacrificial rituals. The passage foretells the coming of Christ, who intentionally set out to be the complete and perfect sacrifice in obedience to the Fathers will.

Challenge: Do you try to please God by a life of routine and ritual? Or do you allow the Spirit to guide and direct your life in service to the Lord?

“God takes no delight in the routine performance of the ritual sacrifice” Leon Morris

Hebrews: The Better Sacrifice

Sun, 16 Feb 2025 13:06:14 GMT

²³ Thus it was necessary for the copies of the heavenly things to be purified with these rites, but the heavenly things themselves with better sacrifices than these. ²⁴ For Christ has entered, not into holy places made with hands, which are copies of the true things, but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God on our behalf. ²⁵ Nor was it to offer himself repeatedly, as the high priest enters the holy places every year with blood not his own, ²⁶ for then he would have had to suffer repeatedly since the foundation of the world. But as it is, he has appeared once for all at the end of the ages to put away sin by the sacrifice of himself. ²⁷ And just as it is appointed for man to die once, and after that comes judgment, ²⁸ so Christ, having been offered once to bear the sins of many, will appear a second time, not to deal with sin but to save those who are eagerly waiting for him. (Hebrews 9:23-28)

Authentic (23): The facilities and implements used for old covenant sacrifices, are imitations or representations of the presence of God and required the blood of animal sacrifices. But the genuine articles required a greater purification. It was necessary for the divine sanctuary to be purified by a greater sacrifice. The death and blood of Jesus was the fulfillment, in a single ultimate sacrifice, of all the preceding sacrifices.

The Intercessor (24): On this basis, Christ entered the divine and perfect realm, not a sanctuary made by man, and offered himself as a sacrifice to the Father in our place. This was a complete and essential event with historic significance. By this he stands face-to-face with the Father and intercedes on our behalf.

One Time (25-26): In further contrast to old covenant sacrifices, Christ sacrificed himself, shed his own blood, for everyone for all past, present and future sins. There is a continuity here; he did it once, not multiple times. In the past, there was an endless supply of sacrificial animals, but now only one sacrifice that cannot be repeated, Christ himself.

Christ’s Return (27-28): The emphasis here is the inevitability of death and after it, judgment. In contrast, Christ chose to die and that by external means. He, being perfect and having taken our sins away, will come again to complete what he began on the cross; granting “those who are eagerly waiting for him” access to the holy presence of the Father. Hodges points out that the group waiting for him are much smaller than those for whom he died.

Challenge: Have you brought your life under the shed blood of Christ? Is Christ alive in you? Are you experiencing his transforming power? Is Christ working through you?

All God’s plans have the mark of the cross on them, and all His plans have death to self in them…. But men’s plans ignore the offense of the cross or despise it. Men’s plans have no profound, stern or self-immolating denial in them . E.M. Bounds

Hebrews: Redemption

Sun, 09 Feb 2025 13:11:15 GMT

¹⁵ Therefore he is the mediator of a new covenant, so that those who are called may receive the promised eternal inheritance, since a death has occurred that redeems them from the transgressions committed under the first covenant. ¹⁶ For where a will is involved, the death of the one who made it must be established. ¹⁷ For a will takes effect only at death, since it is not in force as long as the one who made it is alive. ¹⁸ Therefore not even the first covenant was inaugurated without blood. ¹⁹ For when every commandment of the law had been declared by Moses to all the people, he took the blood of calves and goats, with water and scarlet wool and hyssop, and sprinkled both the book itself and all the people, ²⁰ saying, “This is the blood of the covenant that God commanded for you.” ²¹ And in the same way he sprinkled with the blood both the tent and all the vessels used in worship. ²² Indeed, under the law almost everything is purified with blood, and without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness of sins. (Hebrews 9:15-22)

The Mediator (15): The author, having established that Jesus revealed the new covenant and offering himself as a sacrifice, identifies him as the arbitrator of the new relationship between man and God. And because of Jesus’ death, those who have responded to God’s call to salvation live under the new covenant, that is, have received forgiveness of their sins.

A Last Will and Testament (16-17): The writer then pointed out that a last will and testament defines an inheritance. It was prepared by a person before death and then executed or put into effect on the death of that person. In this case, the inheritance is eternal life which is based on one’s accepting Jesus death as a sacrifice for their sins.

The Shedding of Blood (18-22): Therefore, the covenant, or contract, begins after the death of the maker. Under the old covenant it was the death of lambs and bulls. But the new covenant was executed upon the death of Christ. Shedding blood was a means of purifying or covering the sins of the people under the law. By this the Lord laid the foundation for the new covenant and anticipated Christ’s blood being shed as a greater, perfect sacrifice for the forgiveness of sins.

Challenge: Have you accepted the shed blood of Christ as the covering or purification of your sins and the promise of eternal life.

Be assured that there is no sin you have ever committed that the blood of Jesus Christ cannot cleanse . Billy Graham

Hebrews: The New Covenant

Sun, 02 Feb 2025 13:19:44 GMT

⁶ These preparations having thus been made, the priests go regularly into the first section, performing their ritual duties, ⁷ but into the second only the high priest goes, and he but once a year, and not without taking blood, which he offers for himself and for the unintentional sins of the people. ⁸ By this the Holy Spirit indicates that the way into the holy places is not yet opened as long as the first section is still standing ⁹ (which is symbolic for the present age). According to this arrangement, gifts and sacrifices are offered that cannot perfect the conscience of the worshiper, ¹⁰ but deal only with food and drink and various washings, regulations for the body imposed until the time of reformation. (Hebrews 9:6-10)

The Daily Routine (6): This description of the repeated actions of the Levitical priests in the outer court. According to passages in Exodus, Leviticus, and numbers, those duties included filling the lamps, tending the incense fire, changing the bread of the Presence, and making daily offerings.

The Annual Ritual (7): On the annual Day of Atonement the high priest entered the Holy of Holies to sprinkle blood on the mercy seat as an offering for his and the people’s unintentional sins.

Restricted Access (8-9): The point of the above verses is that access to the Holy Place and the Holy of Holies was restricted to the Levitical priests and the high priest. The outer and inner curtains represented the spiritual separation that sin creates between man and God. Although the tabernacle had been replaced, the rituals and symbols still provide valuable lessons for “the present age.”

The Inadequacy of the Old Order (9-10): No gifts, sacrifices, or rituals are adequate to eliminate guilt or correct ones attitudes and behavior.

Challenge: Are you carrying a burden of guilt? Are you going through the motions in your relationship with the Lord? Are you bound by a besetting sin? Does ritual fail to bring peace? Have you given your life to the Lord?

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid. (John 14:27)

Hebrews: The New Covenant

Sun, 26 Jan 2025 13:22:07 GMT

¹¹ But when Christ appeared as a high priest of the good things that have come, then through the greater and more perfect tent (not made with hands, that is, not of this creation) ¹² he entered once for all into the holy places, not by means of the blood of goats and calves but by means of his own blood, thus securing an eternal redemption. ¹³ For if the blood of goats and bulls, and the sprinkling of defiled persons with the ashes of a heifer, sanctify for the purification of the flesh, ¹⁴ how much more will the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without blemish to God, purify our conscience from dead works to serve the living God. (Hebrews 9:11-14)

The Perfect Tabernacle (11): Having outlined the old order of worship, the author stated that when Christ appeared as a high priest, he replaced the old tabernacle with a superior, perfect heavenly tabernacle. It was a spiritual tabernacle that was not constructed by man and is the heavenly presence of God.

Once for All (12): The old order, while imperfect and temporary in nature, pointed to an order that was to come that would be infinitely greater and final. The new order was established by a high priest who, by shedding his own blood (sacrificing himself as a ransom or release from the penalty of sin), brings eternal reconciliation between man and God. And that high priest dwells permanently in a heavenly sanctuary.

A Better Sacrifice (13-14): Ritual purifications and sacrifices of animals were totally inadequate to solve man’s sin. On the other hand, Christ’s sacrifice, one he himself offered and then became, is one that cleanses us of our guilt, relieves us of never-ending rituals and laws (dead works), and enables us to serve the living God. More importantly, the writer contrasts the flesh (man’s offerings) and the spiritual (God’s sacrifice that provides purification to the center of our being).

Challenge: How do the sacrifices we make for friends, family, and ministry compare to Jesus’ perfect eternal sacrifice?

Nothing that man can present to God by way of sacrifice can ever purchase the blessing of forgiveness. Charles Spurgeon

Hebrews: The Tabernacle

Sun, 19 Jan 2025 13:22:58 GMT

9 Now even the first covenant had regulations for worship and an earthly place of holiness. ² For a tent was prepared, the first section, in which were the lampstand and the table and the bread of the Presence. It is called the Holy Place. ³ Behind the second curtain was a second section called the Most Holy Place, ⁴ having the golden altar of incense and the ark of the covenant covered on all sides with gold, in which was a golden urn holding the manna, and Aaron’s staff that budded, and the tablets of the covenant. ⁵ Above it were the cherubim of glory overshadowing the mercy seat. Of these things we cannot now speak in detail. (Hebrews 9:1-5)

The Introduction (1): The author continues to contrast the requirements of the old covenant worship, with which his readers were familiar, with the new. In the first ten verses he identifies two areas he will address: the physical layout and contents of the tabernacle and the worship that took place there.

The Holy Place (2): the writer, by mentioning the tent, focuses on the tabernacle and not the Temple. The outer part contained the lampstand, table, and bread of the Presence, and the altar of incense. The altar of incense was actually outside of the Holy of Holies but was significant to the function of the Holy of Holies. The Holy Place represents both the children of Israel’s need for God and God’s acceptance of them as his people.

The Most Holy Place (3-5): The manna and the rod of Aaron represent God’s provision and guidance of the people in their physical desert wanderings, while the tablets were the statement of God’s spiritual direction. The cherubim symbolized the presence of God and were guardians of his majesty.

The Need to Move On (5): The authors purpose in these verses was to emphasize the glory of the tabernacle and the old order of worship. He concludes by stating that more can be said about the physical arrangement of the tabernacle, but he has other points he wants to make, namely the limitations of the old order.

Challenge: The tabernacle outer court is a recognition of God and his people together. The Lord’s prayer outline begins with the recognition that he is our God and we are his people, members of his family. Are you a part of his family? Is he your God?

Our Father in heaven … (Matthew 6:9)

Hebrews: the New Covenant

Sun, 12 Jan 2025 13:51:15 GMT

⁷ For if that first covenant had been faultless, there would have been no occasion to look for a second. ⁸ For he finds fault with them when he says: “Behold, the days are coming, declares the Lord, when I will establish a new covenant with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah, ⁹ not like the covenant that I made with their fathers on the day when I took them by the hand to bring them out of the land of Egypt. For they did not continue in my covenant, and so I showed no concern for them, declares the Lord. ¹⁰ For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, declares the Lord: I will put my laws into their minds, and write them on their hearts, and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. ¹¹ And they shall not teach, each one his neighbor and each one his brother, saying, ‘Know the Lord,’ for they shall all know me, from the least of them to the greatest. ¹² For I will be merciful toward their iniquities, and I will remember their sins no more.” ¹³ In speaking of a new covenant, he makes the first one obsolete. And what is becoming obsolete and growing old is ready to vanish away. (Hebrews 8:7-13)

Going through the Motions (7): The old covenant was one filled with unsatisfying actions or rituals; the preparation and bringing of sacrifices, the actions of the priests and the high priest, the garments of the priesthood, the keeping of rules, etc. But it was never enough. It had to be repeated over and over.

The Old Covenant: God established the old covenant; therefore, it was perfect. The problem was that man could not keep it. But the Lord knew that, and already had a plan in place to solve that problem (Genesis 3:15). The problem was not with the old covenant; it was with man. The old covenant was perfect in pointing to the need for a new covenant.

The Better Covenant (8-12): The writer quoted Jeremiah31:31-34 to make the case for a new and better covenant. The new covenant:

(1) Was foretold by the prophet (8)

(2) Applied to both Israel and Judah, indicating old divisions will be healed (8)

(3) Will be established by the Lord (8)

(4) Follows a pattern established by the old covenant (9, 13)

(5) Was unlike the old covenant that man could not keep (9)

(6) Has transforming power because it is written on the hearts and minds of man (10)

(7) Establishes an intimate and mutual relationship (10)

(8) Provides a direct knowledge of God previously available to a select few (11)

(9) Enables direct communication with the Lord, not through intermediaries (11) and

(10) Reveals God’s merciful character that gives man access to the Lord (12)

(11) Brings true and final forgiveness (12)

Obsolete (13): The author summarized the Jeremiah quotation by stating that the new covenant supersedes the old covenant, which was inadequate, and was obsolete. He points out that the old covenant was fading away. Note that worship at the temple ceased when it was destroyed in 70 AD.

Challenge: Are you experiencing the transforming power of the Holy Spirit? Are you becoming a new person? Are you experiencing God working through you?

Only as He is faithful will His covenants stand, and His promises be honored. Only as we have complete assurance that He is faithful may we live in peace and look forward with assurance to the life to come. A. W Tozer

Hebrews: Jesus and the New Covenant

Sun, 05 Jan 2025 13:49:57 GMT

Now the point in what we are saying is this: we have such a high priest, one who is seated at the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in heaven, 2 a minister in the holy places, in the true tent that the Lord set up, not man. 3 For every high priest is appointed to offer gifts and sacrifices; thus it is necessary for this priest also to have something to offer. 4 Now if he were on earth, he would not be a priest at all, since there are priests who offer gifts according to the law. 5 They serve a copy and shadow of the heavenly things. For when Moses was about to erect the tent, he was instructed by God, saying, “See that you make everything according to the pattern that was shown you on the mountain.” 6 But as it is, Christ has obtained a ministry that is as much more excellent than the old as the covenant he mediates is better, since it is enacted on better promises. (Hebrews :1-6)

The Location of the High Priest (1-3): The writer continues the contrast between Jesus and Levitical high priests. First, he points out that Jesus is seated at the right hand of God in the true tabernacle; one not built by man, where he ministers. By sitting on the throne, he is a king. Second, Jesus is seated unlike Levitical priests who served standing.

A Specific Sacrifice (4-5): Jesus did not perform priestly duties while on earth because he did not have a Levitical lineage. Some believe gifts referred to sacrifices. We know that it was essential that he offered himself as a divine sacrifice. He did not offer animal sacrifices. The Lord’s instructions to Moses on building the tabernacle were very detailed, setting a pattern for what was to come. Indeed, the old covenant pointed to the new covenant by setting out moral law, convicting of sin, and priestly sacrifices. Thus, the failure of the old covenant begged for a new and better covenant.

A Better Covenant (6): The new covenant is better because Christ is both the mediator between God and man and the guarantee of the new covenant. He keeps that relationship in effect because man fails to keep up his end of the agreement. The new covenant is based on the promise of an inner understanding of truth, an intimate relationship with God, and the absolute forgiveness of sin.

Challenge: How well are you keeping up your end of the covenant? Are you being Spirit led or are muddling through life with good intentions and self-discipline?

The law is about you looking at yourself. The new covenant is all about you seeing Jesus. Joseph Prince

Hebrews: Made Perfect for Ever

Sun, 29 Dec 2024 13:40:10 GMT

²³ The former priests were many in number, because they were prevented by death from continuing in office, ²⁴ but he holds his priesthood permanently, because he continues forever. ²⁵ Consequently, he is able to save to the uttermost those who draw near to God through him, since he always lives to make intercession for them.

²⁶ For it was indeed fitting that we should have such a high priest, holy, innocent, unstained, separated from sinners, and exalted above the heavens. ²⁷ He has no need, like those high priests, to offer sacrifices daily, first for his own sins and then for those of the people, since he did this once for all when he offered up himself. ²⁸ For the law appoints men in their weakness as high priests, but the word of the oath, which came later than the law, appoints a Son who has been made perfect forever. (7:23-28)

Intercessor (23-25): Again, the author contrasts the mortality of the Levitical priests with Jesus as the great high priest. And because he is the permanent priest, he is continuously able to intercede or mediate between believers and the Father and eternally able to provide salvation for all who come to the Father through Christ. Jesus’ priesthood continues but is not passed on to others.

Once for All (26-27): Like Melchizedek, the king of righteousness, Jesus is innocent, without blemish, and distinct from those to whom he ministers (sinners). Further, because he is innocent, he is exalted above creation and does not need to offer sacrifices for himself. He offered himself as a sacrifice once for all past, present, and future; not for himself because he was blameless, but for all.

Eternal High Priest (28): While the law could not save and mortal, sinner high priests had to offer sacrifices continually, Christ was appointed the perfect, permanent high priest and made one sacrifice for all. Therefore, the believer can come to the Great High Priest with boldness and confidence.

Challenge: Have you met the Great High Priest? Have you accepted his offer of salvation? If so, are you assured of that salvation? Do you have a personal relationship with the Great High Priest?

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life . (John 3:16)

Hebrews: The Priest Forever

Sun, 22 Dec 2024 13:04:44 GMT

²⁰ And it was not without an oath. For those who formerly became priests were made such without an oath, ²¹ but this one was made a priest with an oath by the one who said to him: “The Lord has sworn and will not change his mind, ‘You are a priest forever.’” ²² This makes Jesus the guarantor of a better covenant. (7:20-22)

The New Priest (20-21): with Levitical priests was that thy were installed based on lineage and law not an oath, whereas the new priest was appointed by an oath proclaimed by the absolute, unchanging authority of the Lord himself. Further, the priesthood established through Levi was not set up or promised to be eternal. It was established by God through the law as a promise or pathway to a future, better priesthood, that of Christ.

The Superior Covenant (22): That better priesthood was based on God’s oath and assured or guaranteed by Jesus making the new covenant superior to the Mosaic covenant.

Challenge: Are you under the mercy and grace of the new covenant? Are you under the priesthood of Jesus? Are you experiencing a difference in your life as a result?

Hebrews: A New Priest Was Needed

Sun, 15 Dec 2024 13:35:40 GMT

¹¹ Now if perfection had been attainable through the Levitical priesthood (for under it the people received the law), what further need would there have been for another priest to arise after the order of Melchizedek, rather than one named after the order of Aaron? ¹² For when there is a change in the priesthood, there is necessarily a change in the law as well. ¹³ For the one of whom these things are spoken belonged to another tribe, from which no one has ever served at the altar. ¹⁴ For it is evident that our Lord was descended from Judah, and in connection with that tribe Moses said nothing about priests. ¹⁵ This becomes even more evident when another priest arises in the likeness of Melchizedek, ¹⁶ who has become a priest, not on the basis of a legal requirement concerning bodily descent, but by the power of an indestructible life. ¹⁷ For it is witnessed of him, “You are a priest forever, after the order of Melchizedek.” ¹⁸ For on the one hand, a former commandment is set aside because of its weakness and uselessness ¹⁹ (for the law made nothing perfect); but on the other hand, a better hope is introduced, through which we draw near to God. (7:11-19)

The Law was Imperfect (11): The author stressed the superiority of the priesthood of Melchizedek over Aaronic priesthood because his audience had difficulty accepting any other priesthood. He pointed out how the old priesthood was unable to bring people to perfection because it was administered by sinful mortal men. Therefore, a new and better priest was needed.

Change in the Law (12-14): However, a new and perfect priesthood (Christ’s) required a change to the law since Lord descended from Judah and not Levi. Therefore, the Mosaic covenant was no longer in effect.

A Priest Forever (15-19): Further, the Lord, as with Melchizedek, had no beginning, and by his resurrection, had no end. Any concerns his audience had was countered by quoting Psalm 110:4. It is Christ, the new priest, who brings new hope and access to the throne of grace through salvation and his transforming power.

Challenge: Do you have personal relationship with the Lord? Are you experiencing his transforming power in your life?

In Christ my sins have been forgiven. Christ in me the transforming power.

Hebrews: the tithe to Melchizedek

Sun, 08 Dec 2024 13:30:19 GMT

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Hebrews: Melchizedek's Resume

Sun, 01 Dec 2024 13:30:55 GMT

7 For this Melchizedek, king of Salem, priest of the Most High God, met Abraham returning from the slaughter of the kings and blessed him, ² and to him Abraham apportioned a tenth part of everything. He is first, by translation of his name, king of righteousness, and then he is also king of Salem, that is, king of peace. ³ He is without father or mother or genealogy, having neither beginning of days nor end of life, but resembling the Son of God he continues a priest forever. (7:1-3)

A Superior Priest: Having mentioned Melchizedek in the previous verse (6:20), the author moves on to a comparison of the Melchizedek priesthood with the Levitical priesthood. Because his audience was familiar with Melchizedek, the writer built the case for the superiority of Christ as the eternal high priest over that of the Levitical priests.

A Higher Order: Melchizedek is mentioned twice in the Old Testament. First in Genesis 14:18-20 and Psalm 110:4. In Genesis he is defined as the king of Salem, a servant (giving Abram bread and wine), a priest of God Most High, a giver of blessings, and superior to Abram. (At that time Abram was a power in the region because of his victory over five kings.) In Psalm 110:4, the psalmist placed Jesus in the priestly order of Melchizedek.

A Greater Priest: Levitical priests were mortal, sinners, and descended from Levi. Melchizedek was righteous, had no father or mother or genealogy, nor beginning and end. He resembled the Son of God and is a priest forever.

Challenge: In whom do you place your trust; things that will be burned up in the end, yourself, or the eternal Most High God?

Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. Proverbs 3:5

Hebrews: The Certainty of God's Promises

Sun, 24 Nov 2024 13:34:49 GMT

¹³ For when God made a promise to Abraham, since he had no one greater by whom to swear, he swore by himself, ¹⁴ saying, “Surely I will bless you and multiply you.” ¹⁵ And thus Abraham, having patiently waited, obtained the promise. ¹⁶ For people swear by something greater than themselves, and in all their disputes an oath is final for confirmation. ¹⁷ So when God desired to show more convincingly to the heirs of the promise the unchangeable character of his purpose, he guaranteed it with an oath, ¹⁸ so that by two unchangeable things, in which it is impossible for God to lie, we who have fled for refuge might have strong encouragement to hold fast to the hope set before us. ¹⁹ We have this as a sure and steadfast anchor of the soul, a hope that enters into the inner place behind the curtain, ²⁰ where Jesus has gone as a forerunner on our behalf, having become a high priest forever after the order of Melchizedek. (6:13-20)

The writer, having urged his readers to imitate mature believers who have received the promises inherent in their salvation, now assures them of the certainty of those promises.

The Promise to Abraham (13-15): He uses Abraham as an example of being steadfast in holding on to God’s unchanging promises. Abraham waited 25 years for the promise that God would multiply his offspring and by faith offered his only son as a sacrifice (Genesis 22:17-18). He saw the Lord fulfilling that promise with the birth of his grandsons, Jacob and Esau.

The Certainty of the Promise (16-18): We are heirs of the promise made to Abraham, that is, salvation through his descendent, Jesus. We are heirs not in the genealogical sense but in the spiritual sense. The Lord certified that promise by his incorruptible character and his unchanging will or his oath. Therefore, we can resolutely move with confidence into the reality of the protection promised long before.

Anchored (19-20): The writer concludes this section by using two images. First, a maritime imagery describing our position as believers, firmly fixed or anchored safe and secure in the holy of holies. Second, Jesus providing us eternal security as the high priest forever like Melchizedek.

Challenge: Are you experiencing the benefits of salvation: peace, joy, comfort, strength, forgiveness, strength, and the transformed life?

“True faith rests upon the character of God and asks no further proof than the moral perfections of the One who cannot lie.” (A.W. Tozer)

Hebrews: Encouragement

Sun, 17 Nov 2024 13:12:25 GMT

⁹ Though we speak in this way, yet in your case, beloved, we feel sure of better things—things that belong to salvation. ¹⁰ For God is not unjust so as to overlook your work and the love that you have shown for his name in serving the saints, as you still do. ¹¹ And we desire each one of you to show the same earnestness to have the full assurance of hope until the end, ¹² so that you may not be sluggish, but imitators of those who through faith and patience inherit the promises. (6:9-12)

“Though we speak this way,” marks a transition from exhortation to encouragement. The author expressed his love for his readers and assures them that greater blessings will flow from their salvation. He tells them that God knows their good works, the love they show to fellow believers. The writer encourages them to remain steadfast “until the end.” He concludes these thoughts by encouraging them to follow the example of those who are more mature in the faith, living out their salvation, and receive the resulting blessings.

Challenge: Where do you fit in your fellowship? Are you an example for less mature believers or do you need to release the Spirit within?

“God will meet you where you are in order to take you where He wants you to go.” —Tony Evans

Hebrews: Producing Fruit

Sun, 10 Nov 2024 13:43:48 GMT

¹ Therefore let us leave the elementary doctrine of Christ and go on to maturity, not laying again a foundation of repentance from dead works and of faith toward God, ² and of instruction about washings, the laying on of hands, the resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment. ³ And this we will do if God permits. ⁴ For it is impossible, in the case of those who have once been enlightened, who have tasted the heavenly gift, and have shared in the Holy Spirit, ⁵ and have tasted the goodness of the word of God and the powers of the age to come, ⁶ and then have fallen away, to restore them again to repentance, since they are crucifying once again the Son of God to their own harm and holding him up to contempt. ⁷ For land that has drunk the rain that often falls on it, and produces a crop useful to those for whose sake it is cultivated, receives a blessing from God. ⁸ But if it bears thorns and thistles, it is worthless and near to being cursed, and its end is to be burned. ^[1] The writer defines three principles of the faith: (6:1-8)

The writer expands his concern over his readers falling away. They failed to understand and experience the blessings available through salvation. They had participated in, been taught, and observed faith in action. There was great evidence of their unbelief. He questioned whether their repentance was real, had rejected Jesus and his saving grace, had become apostate, or trusted only themselves.

Principles of the faith (1-2): They were failing to apply what they had been explained to them: (1) Repentance, (2) faith in God, (3) instruction on baptism, (4) laying on of hands – ordination), (5) the resurrection of the dead, and (6) eternal judgement.

Dependence (3): the author was committed to do the will of God as he works in and through the community (Philippians 2:13).

Maturity (4-6): the audiences’ faith was not genuine. Their faith was like that of the Israelites at Kadesh Barnea.

Being Productive (7-8): The rain came but the land produced weeds. The readers had been blessed but there is no evidence of fruit. Fruit is produced by being connected to the vine (John 15:5).

Challenge: Are you enjoying all the benefits of your Salvation? Are you experiencing “Christ in me”? Is the Lord working through you?

The abundance of fruit comes out of intimacy with the Lord. Heidi Baker

Hebrews: Call to Spiritual Maturity

Sun, 03 Nov 2024 13:30:10 GMT

11 About this we have much to say, and it is hard to explain, since you have become dull of hearing. 12 For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the basic principles of the oracles of God. You need milk, not solid food, 13 for everyone who lives on milk is unskilled in the word of righteousness, since he is a child. 14 But solid food is for the mature, for those who have their powers of discernment trained by constant practice to distinguish good from evil. (5:11-13)

Ill Prepared: Having begun a discussion on the priesthood of Melchizedek, he expressed concern, knowing what he had to say was deep and that his audience was not able to understand what he was saying. He was alarmed that they were so immature at this point in their spiritual journey or had fallen back in their faith that they had no foundation for grasping the truths he was about to reveal.

Admonition: As a result, he moves from exhortation to scolding his readers because he expected them to be: (1) teachers and not students, (2) familiar with the fundamentals of the faith, (3) grasp what they had heard at a deeper level, and (4) able to apply the Word to their lives. Unlike the Gentiles, they should have been able to deal with and apply the principles of their faith to daily living.

Challenge: Where are you in your spiritual journey? Are you gleaning truths from scripture with the help of the Spirit? Are you a student or teacher?

To me, growing into spiritual maturity is becoming less self-conscious and more God-conscious. Mark Batterson

Hebrews: The Great High Priest

Sun, 27 Oct 2024 12:30:51 GMT

5 So also Christ did not exalt himself to be made a high priest, but was appointed by him who said to him,

“You are my Son,

today I have begotten you”;

6 as he says also in another place,

“You are a priest forever,

after the order of Melchizedek.”

7 In the days of his flesh, Jesus offered up prayers and supplications, with loud cries and tears, to him who was able to save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverence. 8 Although he was a son, he learned obedience through what he suffered. 9 And being made perfect, he became the source of eternal salvation to all who obey him, 10 being designated by God a high priest after the order of Melchizedek. (Hebrews 5:5-10)

Son and Priest (5-6): The author again draws on Psalm 2:7 and 110:4 to make his point that Christ (as Messiah) was appointed as the Great High Priest.

Son of Man (7-9): He goes on to emphasize that Jesus was in his human nature: (1) the Son of God, (2) continually offered powerful prayers and appeals to the Father for the people, (3) was saved him from death, (4) was made obedient by suffering, (5) was perfect – without sin, and (6) is the eternal path to salvation.

The Great High Priest (v10): God made a new order of priesthood, distinct from that of Aaron, to which he appointed and consecrated Jesus. Like Melchizedek, there is no hereditary successor. Jesus is the eternal High Priest.

Challenge: Are you assured that Jesus is the mediator between you and the Lord? Are you convinced that he hears you’re your petitions and confession?

“[Jesus] stands between us and God, and for that very reason he stands between us and all other men and things. He is the Mediator, not only between God and man, but between man and man, between man and reality. Since the whole world was created through him and unto him (John 1:3; 1st Cor. 8:6; Heb. 1:2), he is the sole Mediator in the world. Dietrick Bonhoefer

Hebrews: The Human High Priest

Sun, 20 Oct 2024 12:18:57 GMT

¹ For every high priest chosen from among men is appointed to act on behalf of men in relation to God, to offer gifts and sacrifices for sins. ² He can deal gently with the ignorant and wayward, since he himself is beset with weakness. ³ Because of this he is obligated to offer sacrifice for his own sins just as he does for those of the people. ⁴ And no one takes this honor for himself, but only when called by God, just as Aaron was. (Hebrews 5:1-4)

Continuing the thought in 4:15, the writer reminded his readers of the role, calling, and limitations of the high priest:

· He was a man and therefore understood human weaknesses

· Acted as an intermediary or mediator between God and man

· Offered meal offerings and sacrifices for the people

· Had to sacrifice for himself because he was a sinner

· Dealt with sins of the people that were willful, intentional, and presumptive (wayward) and hidden or unintentional (ignorant). See Psalm 19:12-13.

· Called to the office by God (Scholars point out that in Christ’s day, they were from a family who had purchased control of the office.)

The High Priest’s Resume: These are things of which his audience should have been very familiar. But the writer thought it necessary to lay a foundation before moving into the argument that Jesus is the great high priest once for all.

Confession: While confession of our sins to one another brings healing to the community (James 5:16), we need to confess to the Lord to heal our relationship with him?

Challenge: Is confession a routine part of your daily quiet time?

Like other imperfect Old Testament types of Christ, high priests pointed to the Great High Priest who was to come.

Hebrews: He Knows Us

Sun, 13 Oct 2024 12:16:38 GMT

¹⁴ Since then we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. ¹⁵ For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. ¹⁶ Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need. (Hebrews 4:14-18)

Great High Priest (14): The author established Jesus’ supremacy and authority and urged his readers to accept the rest Jesus provided through his sacrifice on the cross (good news). In the event his readers failed to respond to his previous arguments, he moved on to a cornerstone of Jewish worship, the priesthood. The writer described Jesus’ ascension as “passing through the heavens,” that is, leaving his disciples and entering heaven, his work of atonement finished. That being the case, we are to remain steadfast in our faith in the face of life’s struggles.

Identification (15): Because Jesus experienced the same trials, tribulations, and temptations that we face, he understands our struggles far better than do we. He faced the same temptations but never gave into them, he never sinned. Temptation is not sin. Yielding to temptation is.

Draw Near (16): The author’s appeal is for his readers (and us) to receive forgiveness for our sins (mercy) and find strength and endurance in the struggles of life (grace). We can approach the throne of God with boldness and confidence because we have a personal relationship with him!

Challenge: Is Jesus your great high priest? Have you accepted the forgiveness he offers you? Are you confident in the mercy and grace he provides?

Mercy is the decision of God not to punish us. But grace is the decision of God to save and bless us. Max Lucado

Hebrews: The Kadesh Barnea Decision

Sun, 06 Oct 2024 12:43:02 GMT

Therefore, while the promise of entering his rest still stands, let us fear lest any of you should seem to have failed to reach it. (Hebrews 4:1)

Believe this Day: Rest: David and the author, using the Jews unbelief at Kadesh Barnea, challenged their audiences not to make the same mistake. They were correct in their belief that they could not defeat the giants in Canaan. The problem was they did not believe that the Lord could either. And they were refused rest and did not receive the blessings of the promised land. The Lord placed his Spirit in us at salvation. Therefore, the battles of life are his. We can rest from our efforts as God did after completing creation. The choice is available as long we have breath. Have you made your Kadesh Barnea decision? Are you resting or wandering? Lord, I believe; help my unbelief!

Believe this Day: Control: We can have rest in this life if we choose to surrender to the indwelling Spirit and put him at the center of our lives. Rest comes by believing that Christ can and will work in and through us. Moreover, we can choose to fight the battles of life on our own or allow the Lord to fight them for us. Have you made your Kadesh Barnea decision? Are you striving or resting? Lord, I believe; help my unbelief!

Believe this Day: The Victory Rest: When we face giants in our life such as depression, bondage, or addictions, we can believe that through the power in us (Romans 8:9-11), We can be overcomers. Have you made your Kadesh Barnea decision? Are you exasperated with life’s struggles or are you an overcomer? Lord, I believe; help my unbelief!

“Thou hast made us for thyself, O Lord, and our heart is restless until it finds its rest in thee.” Augustine

Hebrews: The Power of the Word

Sun, 29 Sep 2024 12:14:36 GMT

¹¹ Let us therefore strive to enter that rest, so that no one may fall by the same sort of disobedience. ¹² For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. ¹³ And no creature is hidden from his sight, but all are naked and exposed to the eyes of him to whom we must give account. (Hebrews 4:11-13)

Repeated exhortation (v11): The author had established the supremacy of Jesus and his position as the living son of God and the long-expected Messiah. Moreover, he made it clear to his fellow believers that they need to enter the Lord’s rest, that is, believe that the Lord can and will fight the “giants” in their life. Therefore, we are to make every effort to enter God’s rest, that is, make the decision to give Jesus control of your life. This is the fifth exhortation on falling away.

The Word (v12): Having applied Psalm 95:7-11) on God-given rest to his fellow Jews, he concludes by describing the power of God’s Word. It is alive, able to separate belief from unbelief, faith from doubt, and honest surrender from lip-service. The living Word acts as a cleaver, cutting to the deepest level and illuminating the most secret motives and thoughts at the center of our lives. Many believe “the word of God” refers to Jesus as described in John 1:1.

God Sees All (v13): While the Word (Jesus) reveals the truth to those seeking rest, nothing is hidden from the Lord. All will be held accountable for accepting or rejection that truth.

Challenge: Have you given Jesus control of your life? Have you accepted the Lord’s promise to give you victory over your trials, tribulations, and temptations? Have you entered the promised land and received the rest offered by the Lord or are you wandering in the desert?

“Workers, take your place every day at the feet of Jesus, in the blessed peace and rest that come from the knowledge—I have no care, my cares are His! I have no fear, He cares for all my fears.” Andrew Murray

Hebrews: Act on the Message

Sun, 22 Sep 2024 12:20:38 GMT

⁶ Since therefore it remains for some to enter it, and those who formerly received the good news failed to enter because of disobedience, ⁷ again he appoints a certain day, “Today,” saying through David so long afterward, in the words already quoted,

“Today, if you hear his voice,

do not harden your hearts.”

⁸ For if Joshua had given them rest, God would not have spoken of another day later on. ⁹ So then, there remains a Sabbath rest for the people of God, ¹⁰ for whoever has entered God’s rest has also rested from his works as God did from his. (Hebrews 4:6-10)

The Decision (v6): The author repeats, for the fourth time, the exhortation to personally accept the Lord’s promised rest.

While it is Today (v7-10): The author points out that the offer of rest was offered in the time of Joshua, through the time of David, and on to the writer’s audience. That rest is available to us today. The offer of rest stands while one has breath, while it is today. We are not promised tomorrow. Therefore, we are to respond to that offer today.

Challenge: Have you accepted God’s offer of rest? Have you ceased striving to please God? Are you resting in the assurance that the Lord is working in and through you?

Truly my soul finds rest in God;
my salvation comes from him.
Truly he is my rock and my salvation;
he is my fortress, I will never be shaken. Psalm 62:1-2)

Hebrews: Rest is Offered Today

Sun, 15 Sep 2024 12:21:12 GMT

¹ Therefore, while the promise of entering his rest still stands, let us fear lest any of you should seem to have failed to reach it. ² For good news came to us just as to them, but the message they heard did not benefit them, because they were not united by faith with those who listened. ³ For we who have believed enter that rest, as he has said,

“As I swore in my wrath,

‘They shall not enter my rest,’”

although his works were finished from the foundation of the world. ⁴ For he has somewhere spoken of the seventh day in this way: “And God rested on the seventh day from all his works.” ⁵ And again in this passage he said,

“They shall not enter my rest.” (Hebrews 4:1-5)

A Standing Promise (v1): Again, the author expresses concern, for the third time, that his readers would fall away from what they had heard, deny Jesus’ power, and fail to receive God’s rest. As he previously stated, rest was available to their forefathers and to them (v7, 13, 15).

United by Faith (v2): He offers hope by making a distinction between those who did not enter rest due to unbelief with those who did through belief.

Rest Now (v3): Moreover, with the words “For we who have believed” he gives testimony to having entered God’s rest. Entering the promised land required faith. The message to his readers was that Lord gives rest to those who trust him. Rest is an unfulfilled promise when our faith is in ourselves and not in Christ.

“It is Finished” (v4-5): God rested on the seventh day having finished his work. Jesus work on the cross was finished. Therefore, the readers no longer needed to labor to do the Lord’s will. Jesus does the work. We also need to stop working and believe and appropriate Jesus power to meet our needs and fight our battles.

Challenge: Have you entered his rest? Are you assured that the Lord is working in and through you?

Thou hast created us for Thyself, and our heart is not quiet until it rests in Thee. Augustine

Hebrews: Unbelief

Sun, 08 Sep 2024 12:26:41 GMT

¹⁶ For who were those who heard and yet rebelled? Was it not all those who left Egypt led by Moses? ¹⁷ And with whom was he provoked for forty years? Was it not with those who sinned, whose bodies fell in the wilderness? ¹⁸ And to whom did he swear that they would not enter his rest, but to those who were disobedient? ¹⁹ So we see that they were unable to enter because of unbelief. (Hebrews 3:16-19)

Unbelief: The author continued to apply the Psalm 95 to his Jewish audience. Their ancestors had experienced God’s deliverance when Moses led them across the Red Sea and saved them from Pharoah’s army. Yet, they failed to trust that the Lord would give them victory over the “giants in the land.” The writer reminded them that unbelief at Kadesh Barnea had brought God’s wrath and denied them rest.

Rebellion: The unbelief of their forefathers led to their rebellion. The writer warned the first century believers that they too would not receive the rest promised by the Lord because of their unbelief.

Exhort: Notice that the author is applying his own advice (3:13) by urging his fellow Jews to place their trust in the Lord.

Challenge: Do you believe that the Lord will fight your battles for you or are you struggling alone in trials, tribulations and temptations? Have you given the Lord control of your life?

Obedience to God's will is the secret of spiritual knowledge and insight. It is not willingness to know, but willingness to DO (obey) God's will that brings certainty. Eric Liddell

Hebrews: The Second Warning

Sun, 01 Sep 2024 12:20:58 GMT

¹² Take care, brothers, lest there be in any of you an evil, unbelieving heart, leading you to fall away from the living God. ¹³ But exhort one another every day, as long as it is called “today,” that none of you may be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin. ¹⁴ For we have come to share in Christ, if indeed we hold our original confidence firm to the end. ¹⁵ As it is said, “Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts as in the rebellion.” (Hebrews 3:12-15)

Falling Away (12): The author repeats, for the second time, his concern that his readers would “fall away”. He is repeating David’s warning that their failure to believe what they had heard (the good news, 2:2-4) would deny them rest. Those who failed to believe that the Lord would meet their needs, were prone to unbelief even to the point of evil. The author was aware of the cycles of belief and unbelief in the history of of Israel.

Exhort (13-14): The writer then encouraged his audience to exhort one another to faith in Jesus the Messiah so they would receive rest. The were encouraged to join believers to strengthen their faith. Further, upon receiving God-given rest, they needed to spur each other to be steadfast in their faith.

Today (15): The author then repeated David’s warning accept salvation “today.” He makes it clear that the opportunity is available and must be accepted today because we are not guaranteed tomorrow. Otherwise, rest would elude them because of their rebellion (unbelief).

Challenge: Have you received God’s rest? Are you a part of his family? Do you encourage others in the faith? Are you being encouraged in the faith?

Religion says, “Attain”; the gospel says, “Obtain.” Religion says, “Attempt”; the gospel says, “Accept.” Religion says, “Try”; the gospel says, “Trust.” Religion says, “Do this;” the gospel says, “It is done.” John T. Seamands

Hebrews: Entering God's Rest

Sun, 25 Aug 2024 12:36:27 GMT

⁷ Therefore, as the Holy Spirit says,

“Today, if you hear his voice,

⁸ do not harden your hearts as in the rebellion,

on the day of testing in the wilderness,

⁹ where your fathers put me to the test

and saw my works for forty years.

¹⁰ Therefore I was provoked with that generation,

and said, ‘They always go astray in their heart;

they have not known my ways.’

¹¹ As I swore in my wrath,

‘They shall not enter my rest.’” (Hebrews 3:7-11)

The Audience: Having established Jesus’ superiority over Angels, Moses, and the law, the writer begins a discourse on the need for his readers to enter God’s rest (3:7-4:13). He was concerned that through disobedience they would break their relationship with the Lord. Some think he was addressing Jews who were still awaiting the arrival of the Messiah, were considering returning to Judaism, were thinking of joining a Jewish sect, or had kept their allegiance to Judaism, the law and its rituals. However, the Psalmist’s warning was that they would not experience the joy and blessings that come trusting Lord to take them through the trials, tribulations and temptations of life.

Rest (nuah): In the Hebrew, the word rest conveys a matter being settled, security, inner peace, the conclusion of a conflict. And as we shall see, making him Lord. The use of rest throughout Old Testament makes it clear, only God can provide rest.

The Decision: The author quotes David’s warning (Psalm 95:7-11), to his fellow Jews that by not placing their trust in the Lord, they also would not enter God’s rest like their ancestors at Kadesh Barnea.

Challenge: Have you surrendered your life to the Lord? Are you giving him freedom to live through you? Is he the hand in your glove? Have you made that decision?

If you look at the world, you’ll be distressed. If you look within, you’ll be depressed. If you look at God, you’ll be at rest. Corrie ten Boom –

Hebrews: Consider Jesus

Sun, 18 Aug 2024 12:18:40 GMT

¹ Therefore, holy brothers, you who share in a heavenly calling, consider Jesus, the apostle and high priest of our confession, ² who was faithful to him who appointed him, just as Moses also was faithful in all God’s house. ³ For Jesus has been counted worthy of more glory than Moses—as much more glory as the builder of a house has more honor than the house itself. ⁴ (For every house is built by someone, but the builder of all things is God.) ⁵ Now Moses was faithful in all God’s house as a servant, to testify to the things that were to be spoken later, ⁶ but Christ is faithful over God’s house as a son. And we are his house, if indeed we hold fast our confidence and our boasting in our hope. (Hebrews 3:1-6)

Jesus, Apostle and Priest (3:1): The writer builds on the truths described in chapter 2 by comparing Jesus’ faithfulness with that of Moses, a faithful servant. He calls Jesus an apostle (one sent) and a high priest (one who sacrifices for our sins).

Keeping the Focus (3:1): He urges believers (those saved, transformed, and set apart) to remain faithful by keeping their focus on Jesus.

Jesus is Superior to Moses (3:2-6): The author continues by elevating Jesus’s faithfulness over Moses’, the one sent by God to lead the children of Israel, the one who was faithful and obedient in building the tabernacle, and the one to whom God gave the law defining the need for a savior. Here God is portrayed as the builder of the house and all creation, and therefore, significantly more important than what he created. While Moses served God in obedience and as the leader of Israel, Christ served believers, members of God’s house, by providing salvation as the Son. Therefore, we are to be steadfast in our faith so that endurance becomes our testimony.

Challenge: Is Jesus on speed dial for emergencies or is he your constant companion? Is he the focus of your life?

There is only one secure foundation: a genuine, deep relationship with Jesus Christ, which will carry you through any and all turmoil. No matter what storms are raging all around, you'll stand firm if you stand on His love. Charles Stanley

Hebrews: Jesus is the Founder of Salvation

Sun, 11 Aug 2024 12:26:52 GMT

¹⁴ Since therefore the children share in flesh and blood, he himself likewise partook of the same things, that through death he might destroy the one who has the power of death, that is, the devil, ¹⁵ and deliver all those who through fear of death were subject to lifelong slavery. ¹⁶ For surely it is not angels that he helps, but he helps the offspring of Abraham. ¹⁷ Therefore he had to be made like his brothers in every respect, so that he might become a merciful and faithful high priest in the service of God, to make propitiation for the sins of the people. ¹⁸ For because he himself has suffered when tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted. (Hebrews 2:14-18)

The Power Over Sin and Death (v14-15): Having established Jesus’ providing the way for becoming a part of his family, the author points out the necessity for a human or a flesh and blood savior, one who could die, and one with whom we can identify. The writer contrasts Jesus superiority over angels with his equality with man, that is a close identification with people. Moreover, Jesus was not only victorious over sin and death, he broke the bonds by which the devil enslaves us. The emphasis here is not on the power of the devil but on God’s ultimate power and authority over him. Again, angels cannot do any of this.

Atonement (v16-17): Jesus gives attention and help to his children, the descendants of Abraham – not angels who have no need of salvation. He could only do this in human form so he could be a “merciful and faithful” high priest. As such he provided atonement through his suffering and sacrifice and turned away God’s wrath against sinners. Jesus came to restore a relationship between God and man broken by man’s sin.

Unconditionally Qualified (v18): In conclusion, Jesus is perfectly qualified to deal with our sin and th struggles of life by coming in human form and suffering and dying for us.

Challenge: The Father set Jesus apart from every created being or thing. Are you setting Jesus apart from everything in your life?

Hebrews: Unity in Christ

Sun, 04 Aug 2024 12:28:49 GMT

¹⁰ For it was fitting that he, for whom and by whom all things exist, in bringing many sons to glory, should make the founder of their salvation perfect through suffering. ¹¹ For he who sanctifies and those who are sanctified all have one source. That is why he is not ashamed to call them brothers, ¹² saying, “I will tell of your name to my brothers; in the midst of the congregation I will sing your praise.” ¹³ And again, “I will put my trust in him.” And again, “Behold, I and the children God has given me.” (Hebrews 2:10-13)

Jesus is Authorized (v10): In continuing the thought from Psalm 8, the author draws the contrast between Jesus and man. It was only through Jesus, being perfect, glorified, honored, and qualified through his suffering, that our salvation is perfected. With his suffering he identifies with us at the deepest level of pain. By this he brings many into the kingdom of God and calls them sons.

One Source (v11): Jesus sanctifies or sets people apart for salvation. By this he accepts them and brings them into his kingdom as brothers. Some commentators believe “one source” refers to the humanity of Jesus. Others believe the author is referring to the audience’s common descent from Abraham. Still others believe the reference is to God the Father.

Adoption into the Family (v12-13): The writer quotes from Psalm 22 which begins with a cry of desolation (the suffering and death of Christ) and ends with praise (reflecting the Lord’s resurrection). This establishes the way the Lord identifies with believers (the congregation or church), renders the work of salvation complete, and calls believers to join him in worship. Further, by quoting Isaiah 8:17, the author encourages believers to place their trust in the Father just as Christ placed is trust in his Father. He continues by quoting Isaiah 8:18 and draws the parallel between Isaiah and his children and the unity we have as a part of God’s family. We are the children of God who has placed us under the protection and care of the Son.

Challenge: Have you made the suffering, death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus; the Son of God personal? Have you experienced the assurance of salvation and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit? Are you living out your calling together with other members of his family?

Hebrews: Jesus Given Authority

Sun, 28 Jul 2024 12:38:55 GMT

⁵ For it was not to angels that God subjected the world to come, of which we are speaking. ⁶ It has been testified somewhere,

“What is man, that you are mindful of him,

or the son of man, that you care for him?

⁷ You made him for a little while lower than the angels;

you have crowned him with glory and honor,

⁸ putting everything in subjection under his feet.”

Now in putting everything in subjection to him, he left nothing outside his control. At present, we do not yet see everything in subjection to him. ⁹ But we see him who for a little while was made lower than the angels, namely Jesus, crowned with glory and honor because of the suffering of death, so that by the grace of God he might taste death for everyone. (Hebrews 2:5-9)

The writer continues the argument about the superiority of Jesus begun in the previous chapter and in verses 2:1-4.

The Purpose Met (v5): The Lord did not subject anything to the angels, specifically the “world to come.”

Lower than the Angels (v6-7): By quoting Psalm 8:4-6, the author points out God’s care and attention to man and established a specific position for the Messiah as the highest or truest representation of mankind. While man, in his earthly life, is lower than the angels, believers will be elevated above the angels in the eternal presence of the Lord. An alternative understanding of the text is that Jesus’ divine nature was obscured, made lower than the Angels, in his earthly life and suffering.

Salvation Made Available (v8-9): Everything is under Jesus’s control including the angels. Yet, Jesus became lower than the angels and was honored and glorified through his humility and suffering to make salvation available to all.

Challenge: Have you chosen to accept his offer of salvation? Have you placed your life under his control? Have you taken the intentional step of committing your life to Jesus? Have you surrendered to his will? Are you living in submission to him?

Hebrews: The First Warning

Sun, 21 Jul 2024 12:32:22 GMT

¹ Therefore we must pay much closer attention to what we have heard, lest we drift away from it. ² For since the message declared by angels proved to be reliable, and every transgression or disobedience received a just retribution, ³ how shall we escape if we neglect such a great salvation? It was declared at first by the Lord, and it was attested to us by those who heard, ⁴ while God also bore witness by signs and wonders and various miracles and by gifts of the Holy Spirit distributed according to his will.

In the first chapter, the author was concerned about understanding Jesus deity as the Son of God. In chapter 2, the focus is on Jesus as the Son of Man that is, he lived, ministered, and died as a human. The writer was worried that his audience would drift away from the gospel message of Jesus: his death for our sins. He points out four ways the message was sent:

(v2) It was given reliably in the Old Testament by angels in the form of the law to Moses and then the people.

(v3) It was declared by the Lord himself.

(v3) it was then repeated by those who saw and heard it.

(v4) It was confirmed through signs, wonders and spiritual gifts as dispensed as the Lord wills.

The message to his audience is the same for us today: we are to be steadfast in our faith, not sliding way under the pressure of our surrounding culture. Nor are we to become cafeteria Christians, that is picking and choosing where we want to be obedient.

Challenge: Are you living life paying close attention to the gospel message and the freedom it offers?

Hebrews: Superior to Angels

Sun, 23 Jun 2024 12:11:45 GMT

having become as much superior to angels as the name he has inherited is more excellent than theirs. (Hebrews 1:4)

In the remainder of the first chapter, the author contrasts Jesus, divine and uncreated, with the angels (created, heavenly beings) through a series of questions or statements using verses from the Old testament.

· (v5a) Did the Lord claim any angels as Son? (Ps 2:7)

· (v5b) Were angels ever included in the Father-Son relationship? (2 Sam 7:16)

· (v6) The Lord directed the angels to worship Jesus as deity. (Ps 97:7)

· (v7) Jesus is the creator of angels and is more glorious (Ps 104:4)

· (v8) Jesus occupies the eternal throne and rules from it (Ps 45:6)

· (v9) Jesus was anointed by the Father and set apart from all else. (Ps 45:7)

· (v10) Jesus created all things, including angels (Ps 102:25)

· (v11) The heavens and earth will perish but Jesus is eternal (102:26)

· (v12) Jesus is unchanging (Ps 102:27)

· (v13) Were any angels called to sit at the right hand of the Father? (Ps 110:1)

The writer concludes by stating that angels have no authority of their own but minister to believers as directed by the Lord (v14).

Challenge: Who is Jesus to you? What has done for you? What is he doing for you? Who else is worthy of your worship?

Hebrews: Introduction

Sun, 16 Jun 2024 12:32:30 GMT

Long ago, at many times and in many ways, God spoke to our fathers by the prophets, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed the heir of all things, through whom also he created the world. He is the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature, and he upholds the universe by the word of his power. After making purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high . . . (Hebrews 1:1-3)

Author: The authorship of the book has been in dispute from earliest church history. Some claim it was Paul. However, the writer does not identify himself as Paul did in his letters, the writing style (shorter sentences), the clear, methodical argument differ from Paul’s, and Old Testament quotations are taken from the Septuagint (Greek OT) not the Masoretic (Hebrew) as was Paul’s practice lead many to believe the writer was other than Paul.

Audience: Most scholars agree that the letter was written to Jewish Christians. As such, that audience may grasp the significance of Old Testament passages in arguing the superiority of Jesus than not of that background.

Date: The author addresses the Jewish sacrificial system, implying that it was written before the destruction of the temple in AD 70. Further, references to Timothy would indicate sometime between AD60 and 70.

Theme and Features: An unrelenting argument, exhortation, and warning about the superiority of Christ compared to angels, the Mosaic law several, and the priesthood; all presented with practical application to life’s challenges. Considered to be the most polished and refined in the Greek text of any New Testament book with its use of imagery, metaphors, and illusions to the Old Testament. The singleness of purpose or focus also sets it apart form other New Testament books. Because of its style, and the lack of salutation or introduction, scholars believe it was a sermon or essay rather than a letter.

Better, Greater, More: While the author uses the words better, greater, and more 25 times, he begins by making a distinction between the method the Lord used to convey the revelation of truth in the past (by prophets in many times and many ways) with that of the present (then Son, implying one time and one way). While the messenger changed, the message did not.

Absolute Superiority (1:1-4): The writer began by stating the qualification and superiority of Jesus as the messenger: (1) He was appointed by God, (2) he is heir of all things (all creation), (3) the creator of the world, (4) radiates the glory of the father himself, (5) the exact representation of the Father (is God himself), (6) sustains the universe by his power and authority, (7) provided purification for sins, and (8) is seated on the right hand of the Father (his work of salvation finished).

Challenge: Who or what in your life is competing for the attention that Jesus wants and deserves?

For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him. (Colossians 1:16)

The Vision of Obadiah: Restoration

Sun, 09 Jun 2024 12:15:29 GMT

Saviors shall go up to Mount Zion to rule Mount Esau, and the kingdom shall be the Lord’s. (Obadiah 21)

Territorial Occupation (19-20): The Israelites of the Negeb will possess Mount Esau (Edom), the lands of the Philistines, Ephraim, Samaria, and Gilead (east of the Jordan River). The exiles from various dispersions will return and possess the land of the Canaanites. The text describes the return of exiles to possess Canaan and Zarephath (a city north of Sidon), not specifying from where they will come. Those exiles in Sepharad, (at least six locations have been suggested, among them western Turkey, northwestern Iran and eastern central Asia, and northern Africa) will possess the Negeb. In other words, the entire promised land will be restored to Israel; north, south, east, and west.

The Kingdom Established (21): Saviors (“those who deliverer the Kingdom” in the Interlinear version), shall rule over Mount Esau (Edom) from Mount Zion (Jerusalem). While judges may be appointed, the Lord will have absolute authority, and righteousness will prevail.

The vision of Obadiah is a massage to the world, those who come against the Jews and Israel for any reason will incur the wrath of the Lord. Ultimately, in the millennium, Israel will be restored, and the Lord will rule his kingdom from Jerusalem. The message is clear, those who stand with Israel will be blessed and those who curse Israel will be cursed (Genesis 12:3 and Matthew 25:31-46)

For kingship belongs to the Lord, and he rules over the nations. (Psalm 22:28)

Obadiah: The Day of the Lord

Sun, 02 Jun 2024 12:07:32 GMT

For the day of the Lord is near upon all the nations. As you have done, it shall be done to you; your deeds shall return on your own head. (Obadiah 15)

The Coming Judgement (15-16): The Lord states that there will come a day in which he will judge all the nations based on their actions. What they have done to other nations will be done to them, specifically to Israel. He further states that his wrath will bring pain and destruction on those who came against Israel (my holy mountain) like the agony and damage caused by a drunk. The result will be that the nations never existed.

The House of Jacob (17-18): Contrary to the judgement on the nations, the nation of Israel (the house of Jacob) will be protected from the coming wrath of God and be restored. Mount Zion, the holy mountain, the place where God will dwell is also the promised inheritance of all of Israel. The Lord makes a distinction between the restoration and protection of all the tribes of Israel and the houses of Jacob and Joseph will pour out the Lord’s vengeance on Edom.

I will lay My vengeance on Edom by the hand of My people Israel. Therefore, they will act in Edom according to My anger and according to My wrath; thus they will know My vengeance,” declares the Lord God. (Ezekiel 25:14)

The Vision of Obadiah: The Charges Against Edom

Sun, 26 May 2024 12:09:07 GMT

Because of the violence done to your brother Jacob, shame shall cover you, and you shall be cut off forever. (Obadiah 10)

Edom’s Failure to Stand with Israel (10-11): The Lord accused Edom standing by when Jerusalem was being attacked. In fact, the Lord claims their inaction was the same as participating in the battle against Israel. This may be a reference to the destruction of Jerusalem in 586 BC by the Babylonians. Like Esau’s pursuit of Jacob (Gernesis27-33), the Edomites acted like invaders and failed to do right, failing to support Jerusalem when it was under attack.

Edom Should Not Have . . . (12-14): The NASB and Interlinear translation of these verses set Edom’s actions in the past-tense; that is after the fall of Jerusalem. Other translations view the verses as warnings. These three verses list an eight-count indictment against Edom. They should not have:

1. Watched as Israel was being led captive

2. Rejoiced as their day of destruction

3. Been arrogant in the face of their distress

4. Entered Jerusalem when it was under attack

5. Watched while the people were in distress

6. Taken their possession or wealth when they were in distress

7. Cut off the people who escaped

8. Delivered Israel into the invader’s hands

“Then he will say to those on his left, ‘Depart from me, you cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels. For I was hungry and you gave me no food, I was thirsty and you gave me no drink, I was a stranger and you did not welcome me, naked and you did not clothe me, sick and in prison and you did not visit me.’ (Matthew 25:41-43)

Believers may be called on to stand with and for those enduring trials and tribulations using taking Spirit empowered, faith-filled risks.

The Vision of Obadiah: Edom will be Humbled

Sun, 19 May 2024 11:43:14 GMT

Thus says the Lord God concerning Edom: We have heard a report from the Lord, and a messenger has been sent among the nations: “Rise up! Let us rise against her for battle!” (v1)

Introduction: The vision given to Obadiah concerns Edom and the nations of the world. Edom was a mountainous region east of the Jordan Valley extending from Mount Hermon in the north and the Gulf of Akaba to the south. Edom in Hebrew means red referring to the red cliffs. Further, the land was occupied by descendants of Esau who was known for his redness (Genesis 25:24). Some date Obadiah’s prophesy after the fall of Jerusalem to the Babylonians in 586 BC but before The Babylonian war against Edom in 553 BC.

Edom’s Pride (1-4): The Lord described Edom being small and despised and called for the nations to bring Edom down because of her pride. Not only is the land mountainous, about 5000 feet above sea-level, but the people were arrogant as indicted by the Edom’s rhetorical question, “Who will bring me down?”.

Are you proud of what you have done or proud of what the Lord has done?

Edom Plundered and Pillaged (5-9): Obadiah’s description indicates that while thieves and grape-gatherers usually leave something behind, in the coming battle no property, possessions, and valuables will be left. The Interlinear and English Standard versions translate the verbs in verses 6 and 7 in the past-tense. The thrust of the book, however, is to future events. Edom will be deceived by those who shared a covenant meal with them; those who claimed to be at peace with them. The vision continues by describing the elimination of Edom’s wise men, and the Edomites failure to understand what was happening or why. Moreover, the army or “mighty men” and all the Edomites will be eliminated on the day of the Lord. Mount Esau was another name for Edom (v8) and Teman was the grandson of Esau (v9).

In the day of the Lord will come like a thief, and then the heavens will pass away with a roar, and the heavenly bodies will be burned up and dissolved, and the earth and the works that are done on it will be exposed (2 Peter 3:10).

Are you hanging on to things will be burned up?

Gleanings from Genesis: Beginnings

Sun, 12 May 2024 12:16:32 GMT

In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth. The earth was without form and void, and darkness was over the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters. And God said … (Genesis 1:1-3)

Creation (1:1-2:15; John 1:1-3)): Genesis 1 introduces God as creator. In fact, we clearly see God the Father and the Holy Spirit present at creation. John identifies Jesus (the Word) as co-creator. We see the presence of God and that the universe, the heavens and earth, light and darkness, day and night, time, life (vegetation and animal) were all spoken into existence. Further, by declaring his creation as good, he establishes that what comes from God is of the highest quality; “And God saw that it was good” (v4). Further, God introduced the concept of rest (sabbath). Then, as a separate and independent act, he created man and woman – in his image.

God’s Interaction with Man (1:26 - 2:25): Upon creating man, God introduced the concept of the relationship with him and within mankind. Relationships involve communication. Further, God provided instructions for living and established the concept of work. He set firm guidelines for keeping a relationship with him (the tree of the knowledge of good and evil) and introduced death and marriage.

Sin, Punishment, and Salvation (3:1- 4:16): Then temptation and sin come (3:1-5), and Adam’s failure to protect Eve (3:6). This followed by fear of God (3:10) and then Adam blamed God for his sin (3:12-13). God then cursed Satan (3:14) and promised to restore fallen man (salvation from sin and death) through a descendent of Eve (Jesus) (3:15), and the promise of pain and toil (3:16, 17-19). Then came the first sacrifice to cover man’s nakedness.

More Firsts: In the following chapters we encounter the first birth (Cain) (4:1), the first act of jealousy and anger (4:6-7) which resulted in the first murder (4:8), the creations of the first city (4:17), the first sexual sin (6:1-4), the first judgement on an evil and corrupt society, the salvation of the obedient (6:11-22), the first flood (7:11-24), the first restoration (8:1-19), and the first altar (8:20).

Three pillars of Theology:

· Before God did anything, he planned everything. (Ephesians 1:11)

· God has a plan and will not change it. (Psalm 33:11)

· God is intimately involved in his creation. (Colossians 1:17)

Six Types of Christ in Genesis

Sun, 05 May 2024 12:06:50 GMT

Throughout the Old Testament there are several people and events that fore shadow or point to the coming Christ. The following are five types of Christ in Genesis. The following link lists 100 people and their actions that point to Christ.

https://graceambassadors.com/biblestudy/100-types-found-in-genesis#top

Adam: Both were sons of God and their births were unique (1:26-27), Adam was created in the image of God and Jesus is the image of God. God gave Adam dominion over creation (1:28) and Jesus is the head of his kingdom. Adam, like Jesus, as one man, who committed one action effected eternity. For an additional 20 actions of Adam that parallel the life of Jesus, go to:

https://conversantfaith.com/2013/01/30/adam-a-type-of-christ/

Ark: Both were planned by God and provided protection and survival from the unexpected flood. Further, access to the ark is by invitation and was a limited time offer; there is only one door. Noah used pitch to make the ark waterproof and Jesus blood provides protection from judgement. Jesus rose from the dead on the same date the ark came to rest.

https://biblicalspiritualitypress.org/2014/11/24/six-ways-in-which-noahs-ark-is-a-type-of-christ/

Melchizedek: Both were priests; however, neither were from the Levitical priesthood. Both were kings. Melchizedek translated meant King of Righteousness and he was the King of Salem (peace). Abram worshiped him (14:18-20).

https://insight.org/resources/article-library/individual/melchizedek-as-a-type-of-christ

Isaac: Both were only sons (Hebrews 11:17), their births were miraculous (17:15-19), they were offered as a sacrifice in Jerusalem (22) and restored (Hebrews 11:19). Both carried wood for their own sacrifice. Both willingly offered themselves as sacrifices.

https://www.agapebiblestudy.com/charts/Typology%20of%20Issac%20and%20Jesus.htm

Jacob: Both Jacob and Jesus were beloved sons. Both left their homeland to live in a foreign land. Jacob dreamed of a ladder bridging the gap between heaven and earth. Jesus bridged the gap between Man and God. Jacob labored 14 years to gain Rachael as his bride. Jesus, through the Spirit labors in our lives until the bridegroom returns. Jacob (Israel) wrestled with God and prevailed. Jesus will return and prevail on earth. Jacob had twelve sons. Jesus had twelve disciples.

https://theinplacemissionary.wordpress.com/2015/01/13/old-and-new-testament-parallels-symbols-and-ponderings-series-part-5-jacob-as-a-type-of-christ/

Joseph: Both Joseph and Jesus were loved by their father (37:3), sent by their father (37:13), despised and rejected (37), falsely accused (39), promised a position of authority and accused of delusion, sold for money and put in prison (39-40), raised from the pit and exalted (49:22-26), were servants, resisted temptation, offered forgiveness (50:15-21), provided for people in need (47), and were not recognized. For more parallels between Joseph and Jesus, follow the link below.

https://www.onepagebiblesummary.com/pad/pad_17.php

Covenants in Genesis: The Abrahamic Covenant

Sun, 28 Apr 2024 13:00:27 GMT

Now the Lord said to Abram, “Go from your country and your kindred and your father’s house to the land that I will show you. And I will make of you a great nation, and I will bless you and make your name great, so that you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you, and him who dishonors you I will curse, and in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed.” (Genesis 12:1-3)

Some believe the Abrahamic Covenant to be unconditional, no action required by Abram/Abraham in that it was made while Abram was asleep (15:12). Others believe the covenant was conditioned on Abraham having to prepare for the covenant ceremony and follow it up with circumcision. If, on the other hand, one views the covenant as beginning in Chapter 12 where God commanded Abram to leave Haran (his comfort zone) before he would bless him, then it is conditional.

The Abrahamic Covenant had three parts: First, the Lord promised to give Abraham and his descendants a land (defined in chapter 15:18-20). Second, he promised he would bless Abraham and a great nation would come from him. And third, that Abraham and his descendants would be a blessing to all nations, that he, the Lord, would bless those who blessed Abraham’s descendants and curse those who cursed his descendants. Further, the Lord instituted circumcision of males as a sign of the covenant in chapter 17:10-14.

God made similar covenants to Isaac (26:3-4) under the condition he stay in the land and then to Jacob (35:11-13).

On this side of the cross, we see the blessing of Abraham coming through the peace and the abundant life offered through the death and resurrection of Jesus. Throughout Genesis and the Old Testament, the Lord blessed people who stood by, protected, and supported the children of Israel. History tells us that those who have come against Israel have been cursed. And then there is the judgement of the nations often viewed as those who support Israel (sheep) and those who do not (goats) (Matthew 25:31-46).

As believers, God calls us out of our comfort zone (sets us apart) into an assigned territory in which we are to serve and minister, be it large or small, as he desires, that is bless those around us through our gifts, talents, and skills. Have you left your comfort zone? What is your territory? Where has he called you to serve? Who are you blessing? Does the presence of the Spirit set you apart in language, behavior, and countenance?

There can be no doubt that the blessing, of which believers are heirs, is justification by faith; and that the promise, according to which they are heirs of this blessing, is the gospel promise made to Abraham. Adoniram Judson

https://contrast2.wordpress.com/2010/03/06/is-the-abrahamic-covenant-conditional-or-unconditional/

Genesis Covenants: The Noahic Covenant (9:1-17)

Sun, 21 Apr 2024 12:11:00 GMT

Then God said to Noah and to his sons with him, “Behold, I establish my covenant with you and your offspring after you, and with every living creature that is with you, the birds, the livestock, and every beast of the earth with you, as many as came out of the ark; it is for every beast of the earth. I establish my covenant with you, that never again shall all flesh be cut off by the waters of the flood, and never again shall there be a flood to destroy the earth.” And God said, “This is the sign of the covenant that I make between me and you and every living creature that is with you, for all future generations: I have set my bow in the cloud, and it shall be a sign of the covenant between me and the earth. (9:8-13)

The Noahic Covenant is unconditional. It does not depend or require an action on the part of man. It is God’s promise to man and all creation that he would never be another world-wide flood under any circumstances or conditions. Further, God provided a rainbow as a sign of this covenant, a reminder of this promise.

The Lord’s promise to us is that no matter how bad things get, we are under God’s mercy and grace. Are you comforted by this promise?

“ The covenant of grace could no more have been made by man, than he can form a bow in the clouds.” ― Arthur W. Pink, Divine Covenants

Genesis Covenants: The Adamic Covenant

Sun, 14 Apr 2024 12:23:06 GMT

And the Lord God commanded the man, saying, “You may surely eat of every tree of the garden, but of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat of it you shall surely die.” (2:16-17)

The Lord God said to the serpent, “Because you have done this, cursed are you above all livestock and above all beasts of the field; on your belly you shall go, and dust you shall eat all the days of your life. I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and her offspring; he shall bruise your head, and you shall bruise his heel.” To the woman he said, “I will surely multiply your pain in childbearing; in pain you shall bring forth children. Your desire shall be contrary to your husband, but he shall rule over you.” And to Adam he said, “Because you have listened to the voice of your wife and have eaten of the tree of which I commanded you, ‘You shall not eat of it,’ cursed is the ground because of you; in pain you shall eat of it all the days of your life; thorns and thistles it shall bring forth for you; and you shall eat the plants of the field. By the sweat of your face you shall eat bread, till you return to the ground, for out of it you were taken; for you are dust, and to dust you shall return.” (3:14-19)

The Adamic Covenant is “if you disobey (2:16-17) then you will be cursed” (3:14-19). The curse includes the following: hostility between Satan and man, painful childbirth for women, difficulties in marriage, a cursed ground that produces thorns and thistles, life will be difficult, and death will be a reality.

The Adamic covenant includes the unconditional promise that a descendent of Eve, although wounded, would overcome the curse of sin and death, and Satan will be destroyed (3:15).

Does life as we are experiencing today make sense to you considering Geneses 3? Is the presence of the Holy Spirit promised in the gospels and epistles a reality and are you living victoriously despite present-day trials and tribulations? Do you have assurance that you will live eternally in the presence of the Lord? Have you made Jesus Christ your savior and Lord?

“And what is faith but the acceptance of heaven’s gifts, or the trusting in the record wherein those gifts are promised.” Arthur W. Pink, Divine Covenants

https://www.gotquestions.org/Adamic-covenant.html

https://biblefanboy.com/2019/03/31/the-biblical-covenants-adam-to-noah/

The Genesis Covenants: The Edenic Covenant

Sun, 07 Apr 2024 11:59:25 GMT

A Biblical Covenant is a contract or agreement established by God and his people specifying actions he will or will not take. In some cases the covenants are conditional, that is, actions on the part of God are dependent on actions by man, that is ”if … then” statements. Other covenants are unconditional, actions promised by God that are not dependent on man.

Then God said, “Let us make man in our image, after our likeness. And let them have dominion over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the heavens and over the livestock and over all the earth and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth.” . . . And God blessed them. And God said to them, “Be fruitful and multiply and fill the earth and subdue it, and have dominion over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the heavens and over every living thing that moves on the earth.” And God said, “Behold, I have given you every plant yielding seed that is on the face of all the earth, and every tree with seed in its fruit. You shall have them for food. And to every beast of the earth and to every bird of the heavens and to everything that creeps on the earth, everything that has the breath of life, I have given every green plant for food.” . . . The Lord God took the man and put him in the garden of Eden to work it and keep it. And the Lord God commanded the man, saying, “You may surely eat of every tree of the garden, but of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat of it you shall surely die.” (1:26, 28-30; 2:15-17)

God’s Part: He made everything and provided it to man. He blessed man by meeting all his needs. He planned for man to live and enjoy his creation. He gave man authority over the earth and all creatures and plants. He provided vegetation for food but prohibited man from eating from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil under penalty of death (If . . . then). The Lord also set aside the seventh day for rest. By this the Lord defined his vision for man and a physical and spiritual pattern for living. There is an image of order and harmony in these verses and a warning about breaking that harmony.

Man’s Part: Man was to “be fruitful and multiply,” care for what God had provided, and to use the resources of creation beneficially. Does your life match the pattern God has established for you? Are you in a harmonious partnership with the Lord?

Blessings come from living within God’s boundaries.

https://www.bibletools.org/index.cfm/fuseaction/topical.show/RTD/cgg/ID/21181/Edenic-Covenant-Universal.htm

Gleanings from Genesis: Egypt

Sun, 31 Mar 2024 11:38:46 GMT

Now there was a famine in the land. So Abram went down to Egypt to sojourn there, for the famine was severe in the land. (Genesis 12:10)

They also took their livestock and their goods, which they had gained in the land of Canaan, and came into Egypt, Jacob and all his offspring with him. (Genesis 46:6)

Refuge: Twice in Genesis, famine forced the Hebrews to move to Egypt. First with Abram and Sarah and again with Jacob and his family. In the New Testament, Joseph, Mary, and Jesus sought refuge in Egypt when Herod was killing male children under two.

Oppression and Slavery: In Exodus, Egypt oppressed the children of Israel leading to the plagues and the Lord’s rescue by parting the Red Sea.

Enemy: Further, Egypt invaded Israel and Judah and ransacked the temple and the royal palace (1 Kings 14:25-26), and later deposed King Jehoahaz (2 Chronicles 36:2-4).

New Life: For believers on this side of the cross, Egypt represents deliverance from sin and death. We have been slaves to sin and have served Satan. God calls all people to “go out and be separate” as he did the Children of Israel.

Therefore go out from their midst, and be separate from them, says the Lord, and touch no unclean thing; then I will welcome you (2 Corinthians 6:17).

Gleanings from Genesis: Sojourners

Sun, 24 Mar 2024 12:01:45 GMT

As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, to bring it about that many people ^[ ^a ^] should be kept alive, as they are today. (Genesis 50:20)

Jacob’s Burial: When Jacob died, Joseph and the Egyptians mourned his loss. Joseph instructed his servants (physicians) to embalm his body. Upon Joseph’s request, Pharoah’s gave him permission to take his body back to Canaan for burial. Thereupon, Joseph, his brothers and “a very great company” including Pharaoh’s servants and Josephs household accompanied the body. In Canaan, there was another seven days of mourning. After the burial in Machpelah, Joseph, his brothers and the entourage returned to Egypt.

Fear: The narrative describes Joseph’s brothers being afraid that Joseph would take revenge for what they had done now that their father was gone and begged his forgiveness. Joseph forgave them, comforted them, and promised to provide for them and their families.

Joseph’s Instructions: Joseph lived 110 years and saw Ephraim’s children to the third generation and the children of Manasseh’s son. As Joseph neared death, he promised his brothers that at some point in the future they would return to the promised land and when they did, they were to “carry up my bones” with them.

The Promised Land: The Lord promised Abram that he would give his descendants land as a permanent residence, the promised land (Genesis 12:7). Until that time the children of Israel’s dwellings were tents, they were nomads, living where there was water and pasture for their sheep. While Genesis ends on the note of the promised land in the future, that concept carries over into the New Testament. We are promised a permanent, eternal residence, not made with human hands (2 Corinthians 5:1). Our bodies are a temporary dwelling for our soul, and we are destined to wander. And as a guarantor of that life God give us the indwelling Spirit.

As believers, the promise of the future eternal life with God comes at salvation with the presence of the Holy Spirit. Have you accepted Jesus as your savior? Have you made him the Lord of your life?

And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be his people, and God himself will be with them as their God. (Revelation 21:3)

Gleeanings from Genesis: Blessing

Sun, 17 Mar 2024 12:23:09 GMT

All these are the twelve tribes of Israel. This is what their father said to them as he blessed them, blessing each with the blessing suitable to him. (Genesis 49:28)

Chapter 48

As Jacob lay dying, he told Joseph the vision he had at Luz, commonly referred to as Jacob’s ladder (28:13-15), and the Lord’s promise that he would multiply his offspring and provide them a land “for an everlasting possession.” He raised Joseph to the status of first born and raised Ephraim and Manasseh, to the same status as Joseph’s brothers. Note that Joshua allocated portions of the promised land to each (Joshua 13-19) and Reuban was denied land because of his incest with Bilhah (35:22). Finally, Jacob told Joseph of Rachael’s death.

Further, Jacob elevated Manasseh, Joseph’s youngest son, to that of first born and told Joseph his younger son would be greater. Moreover, he anticipated the return of the people to the promised land and promised Joseph “the mountain slope” for his burial place (Joshua 24:32).

Chapter 49

Jacob gathered his sons and blessed them by describing their descendants’ role in the promised land based on their past behavior, and their strengths and weaknesses. He also described the regions in which they would dwell. Of significance is Jacob’s prediction that Judah’s clan would be preeminent and that the nations would bow to one of his descendants (Jesus).

Upon completing the blessings, Jacob instructed his sons that his body be returned to Canaan and buried in the cave at Machpelah with Abraham, Isaac, and Leah. Then he died.

Just as Isaac blessed Jacob (27:27-29), Jacob blessed his sons and grandsons. A parent’s blessing encourages children to engage in their calling. Have you taken the time to bless your children? Are you encouraging them to have a personal relationship with the Lord and to live an obedient life?

A parent’s blessing on their children releases them to advance the kingdom of God.

Gleanings from Genesis: Famine

Sun, 10 Mar 2024 12:35:04 GMT

Now there was no food in all the land, for the famine was very severe, so that the land of Egypt and the land of Canaan languished by reason of the famine. (Genesis 47:13)

Pharaoh’s Offer: Joseph introduced five of his brothers to Pharaoh who asked them their occupation. They replied that they were shepherds. He granted their request to live in Goshen and asked if there were men who could manage his herds. Joseph then presented his father to Pharaoh and Jacob blessed Pharoah (7, 10), in accordance with the Lord’s call for his people to be a blessing to the nations. Pharoah’s question on Jacob’s age reflects the thinking that age brings divine wisdom. Jacob indicates the difficult days of his life and that he had no permanent place to live. Following the introductions, Joseph settled his family in Goshen and provided them food.

Famine: When the famine became severe in Egypt and Canaan, Joseph sold grain to the people. When the people had consumed that grain and had run out of money, Joseph gave them grain in exchange for their livestock. Again, when that grain was gone, Joseph gave them grain in exchange for their land. The livestock and land then became Pharoah’s. By his actions, Joseph saved the people and the people in turn, served Pharaoh, another theme pointing to a savior and service to the Lord. Joseph gave the people seed to plant with the understanding that one-fifth of the crops would go the Pharaoh and the people could keep four-fifths. All this except for the priests whose needs were met by Pharaoh.

Being Fruitful: While the people were suffering through the famine, Jacob and his family became prosperous and multiplied, evidence of the Lord’s blessing on his people.

Jacob’s Arrangements: Jacob told Joseph he did not want to be buried in Egypt, but that his remains be returned to Canaan to be buried with Abraham and Isaac and Joseph agreed.

This chapter carries on important themes in scripture: salvation, service, being fruitful and multiplying. These are foundational to the life of a believer; being called to bear fruit (John 15:5, Matthew 28, Acts 1:8). Are these characteristics of your life? Are you sharing the gospel? Are you discipling? If not, why not?

Be patient. God is using today's difficulties to strengthen you for tomorrow. He is equipping you. The God who makes things grow will help you bear fruit. — Max Lucado

Glean ings from Genesis: Relocation

Sun, 03 Mar 2024 13:05:05 GMT

So Israel took his journey with all that he had and came to Beersheba, and offered sacrifices to the God of his father Isaac. And God spoke to Israel in visions of the night and said, “Jacob, Jacob.” And he said, “Here I am.” Then he said, “I am God, the God of your father. Do not be afraid to go down to Egypt, for there I will make you into a great nation. I myself will go down with you to Egypt, and I will also bring you up again, and Joseph’s hand shall close your eyes.” (Genesis 46:1-4)

The Preparation: Jacob went to Beersheba, where Abraham and Isaac had lived. There God spoke to him in a vision encouraging him to go to Egypt, that he would become a great nation, and that he would not only go with him but also would “bring you up again.” The next verses (5-7), state that he brought all his family, all his possession, and all his livestock with him to Egypt. The implication is, and Jacob’s understanding was, that He would die in Egypt.

The Journey: The narrative lists all sixty-six of Jacob’s descendants who travelled with him to Egypt and reported they took all their possessions and livestock with them. The descendants of Jacob also included Joseph, his wife and two sons.

The Meeting: When Joseph met Jacob the two wept. Joseph then instructed the family to report their occupation to Pharaoh as shepherds. The narrative states that shepherds were loathed by the Egyptians and thereby ensured religious and cultural separation for the Israelites.

Everything: Jacob sought the Lord before going to Egypt. When the Lord directed him to leave Canaan, he took everything. Do you seek the Lord for direction? Are you willing to go where the Lord directs you? Are you willing to leave your comfort zone?

“He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain that which he cannot lose.” Jim Elliot

Gleanings from Genesis: Distress

Sun, 25 Feb 2024 13:33:52 GMT

Then they said to one another, “Truly we are guilty concerning our brother, because we saw the distress of his soul when he pleaded with us, yet we would not listen; therefore this distress has come upon us.” (Genesis 42:21)

Famine: Because of the famine Jacob sent his sons, except for Benjamin, to Egypt to buy grain. Upon arrival in Egypt, the brothers met Joseph who managed the grain distribution. He recognized his brothers, but they did not recognize him. Joseph, speaking through an interpreter, accused them of being spies three times. They denied it identifying themselves as ten of twelve brothers with one remaining behind and “one who is no more.”

Guilt: The brother admitted their guilt among themselves. But Joseph heard and understood what they were saying. To demonstrate his position and authority, he confined his brothers for three days. Upon releasing them he sold them the grain, gave them provisions for the journey, replaced their money, and sent them back to Canaan. He kept Simeon until they returned with Benjamin. Upon opening their sacks and discovering the returned money, they had great fear that they would be taken as thieves or that they had sold Simeon.

Report: Upon return to Canaan, the brothers reported all that had happened and that they were to return to Egypt with Benjamin. Reuben even offered his sons as a sacrifice if Jacob did not agree with the arrangement. Jacob rejected the plan outright because he did not want to lose Benjamin and probably may not have trusted Reuben because he was so quick to give up his sons.

Sin Revealed: Threaded throughout this passage is the concept that ultimately evil deeds will be punished. How is your testimony? Does your life reflect Christ? Is your life beyond reproach?

But there is nothing covered up that will not be revealed, and hidden that will not be known. Accordingly, whatever you have said in the dark will be heard in the light, and what you have whispered in the inner rooms will be proclaimed upon the housetops. (Luke 12:2-3)

Sin will not be hidden.

Gleanings from Genesis: Interpretation of Dreams II

Sun, 18 Feb 2024 12:37:17 GMT

The seven years of plenty that occurred in the land of Egypt came to an end, and the seven years of famine began to come, as Joseph had said. There was famine in all lands, but in all the land of Egypt there was bread. (Genesis 41:53-54)

Pharaoh’s Dreams: Two years after Joseph had interpreted the dreams of the cupbearer and chief baker, Pharoah had two dreams that no one could interpret.

The Cupbearer Remembered: The cupbearer reported that Joseph had interpreted his and the baker’s dreams, and that his interpretation was accurate. As a result, Pharaoh sent for Joseph. The narrative describes Joseph as being let out of the pit, meaning the conditions under which he had lived in prison.

Joseph’s Interpretation: Joseph told Pharoah that his dreams were from God and that God would provide the interpretation. Joseph proceeded to tell Pharaoh that his dreams meant there would be seven years of plenty and seven years of famine. That the dream was repeated meant it was eminent. Joseph then gave Pharaoh detailed instructions on establishing reserves during the seven years pf plenty so that the country was prepared for the seven years of famine.

Joseph’s Promotion: Pharoah acknowledged that the Lord had given Joseph great wisdom and skill and that he had a divine presence about him. He then gave Joseph authority over all of Egypt second only to Pharoah himself. In addition, Pharaoh gave Joseph an Egyptian name and wife which made him a part of the royal family. Joseph proceeded to set aside great reserves of grain during the years of abundance. The narrative reports that Joseph had two sons: Manasseh and Ephraim.

Famine: After seven years of plenty, a severe famine struck Egypt and “over all the earth.” Therefore, Pharaoh directed Joseph to open the storehouses so the Egyptians could eat and make food available to sell to other countries.

Have you experienced God working through you because he equipped you and put you at a time and place where you could minister?

“And who knows whether you have not come to the kingdom for such a time as this?” (Esther 4:14)

Gleanings from Genesis: Interpretation of Dreams

Sun, 11 Feb 2024 13:08:49 GMT

And one night they both dreamed—the cupbearer and the baker of the king of Egypt, who were confined in the prison—each his own dream, and each dream with its own interpretation. (Genesis 40:5)

Prison: Pharaoh imprisoned his cupbearer and chief baker for unspecified offenses. Apparently, both had failed in their duties of providing drink and food to Pharaoh. The chief jailer “appointed Joseph to be with them.”

Dreams: Each had dreams and sought interpretation. In that culture dreams were viewed as divine messages. Because they were in prison, there was no one to interpret their dreams. Joseph told them that only God could interpret dreams and asked them to tell him their dreams. Clearly, was confident that the Lord could reveal the meaning of the dreams through him.

Interpretations: Joseph interpreted the cupbearer’s dream to mean he would be restored to his position in three days. Joseph interpreted the chief baker’s dream to mean he would be hanged in three days. It happened as Joseph said.

The Request: Because he had been falsely imprisoned, Joseph asked the cupbearer to remember and mention him to Pharaoh.

While the Lord may not gift us with the interpretation of dreams, he has uniquely gifted and appointed each believer to tasks that build his kingdom. What is your grace gift (Romans 12:4-8); your body gift(s) (1 Corinthians 12: 27-31); or perhaps your leadership gift (Ephesians 4:11)? Are you open to the Spirit working through you as opportunities arise (1 Corinthians 12:7-11)? Are you willing to step up to your calling to meet the needs of those around you?

Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord; and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who empowers them all in everyone. To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good. (1 Corinthians 12:4-7)

Gleanings from Genesis: Success

Sun, 04 Feb 2024 13:00:50 GMT

[Potiphar and the] keeper of the prison paid no attention to anything that was in Joseph’s charge, because the Lord was with him. And whatever he did, the Lord made it succeed. (Genesis 39:3, 23)

Contrast: Chapter 39 marks a transition between the stories of Rueben and Judah, and Joseph; between self-absorbed lives and a blessed life, and between failure and success.

Joseph’s Success: Potiphar had purchased Joseph from Ishmaelite traders (37:36). Because Joseph was successful in everything he did, and Potiphar placed him in charge of his household and his possessions. Success comes from wisdom and skill in knowing want needs to be done, when it is needed, and how to do it. However, for Joseph, and we as believers, success comes from the Lord, as the narrative repeats four times.

Temptation: Potiphar’s wife was strongly attracted to Joseph and encouraged him to sleep with her on multiple occasions. Joseph refused out of respect of his master and obedience to the Lord. Finally, Potiphar’s wife grabbed his robe and Joseph fled leaving the robe behind.

Accusation: Potiphar’s wife then reported to the men of the house and Potiphar that Joseph had attempted to rape. Potiphar had Joseph imprisoned.

The Lord was with Him: The Lord continued to set Joseph apart in attitude and behavior such that the jailer put him in charge of all the prisoners. All because “the Lord was with him.”

There is no mention of the Lord speaking to Joseph or Joseph talking to the Lord. Therefore, we must conclude that Jacob mentored Joseph and encouraged a strong work ethic and faith in the Lord that set him apart from his brothers and peers.

Are you laying a strong foundation of obedience and faith for your children or young people around you. Does your life reflect the indwelling Christ.

Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it. (Proverbs 22:6)

Gleanings from Genesis: Deception

Sun, 28 Jan 2024 13:13:31 GMT

He turned to her at the roadside and said, “Come, let me come in to you,” for he did not know that she was his daughter-in-law. (Genesis 38:16)

Judah’s Sons: Judah moved from Bethel to Adullah located southwest of Bethlehem. There he met an unnamed Canaanite woman who bore him three sons: Er, Onan, and Shelah. Er married Tamar but the Lord killed Er because he was wicked. Onan was required to marry Tamar to produce children for his brother, known as the levirate marriage. But he “spilled his seed on the ground” because the children would not be his legacy. Therefore, the Lord killed him. Judah, thinking that Shelah might die also, sent Tamar back to her father as a widow to wait until Shelah was old enough to father a child.

Tamar’s Deception: When Shela matured and Judah did not present him to Tamar for marriage, she disguised herself as a prostitute at the entrance to Enaim, to trap Judah. It was an ancient custom to place brothels near city gates. Judah propositioned her, promising her a goat in return. Since Judah did not have a goat at that time, she asked for Judah’s seal with its cord and a staff as a pledge. These items were a form of identification. She became pregnant and was accused of being immoral. However, she revealed Judah’s signet, cord, and staff proving that Judah, her father-in law, was the father.

The Birth of Perez: Tamar delivered twins. One of the twins, Zerah, put his hand out and the midwife placed a scarlet band on it to identify him as the first born. However, Perez as born first. Scholars believe the detailed description of the birth indicated that Perez would be a person of some importance. In fact, Perez’s line leads to David and on to Jesus.

Note that Judah chose to leave his family. It was not by direction of the Lord as was the case with Abraham and Jacob (12:1, 31:3). Moreover, he married a Canaanite woman which was not acceptable to the descendants of Abraham (24:3, 26:23-35, and 28:1). Further, Judah did not keep the promise of giving Shelah in marriage to Tamar. And he easily gave into a base desire by having intercourse with what he perceived to be a prostitute making Perez the product of incest. Yet, the lineage of Judah extends through Perez to David and Jesus. “For the LORD Almighty has purposed, and who can thwart him? His hand is stretched out, and who can turn it back?” (Isaiah 14:27).

Do you act before asking God for direction? Do you act when you know it is wrong? Do you act on impulse? Are you controlled by your passions? Do you know that the Lord can rescue you from a self-absorbed life?

God rescues us by breaking us, by shattering our strength and wiping out our resistance. A. W. Tozer

Gleanings from Genesis: Jealousy

Sun, 21 Jan 2024 13:19:35 GMT

They saw him from afar, and before he came near to them they conspired against him to kill him. (Genesis 37:18).

Jacob’s Love of Joseph: The narrative moves from Esau to Jacob and his sons in Canaan. Jacob loved Joseph, his second youngest son, and treated him like the oldest. He made Joseph a robe of many colors, thereby setting him apart from his brothers. Again, favoritism rears its ugly head. Do you show favoritism in your family, your relationships?

Joseph’s Dreams: Joseph further alienates his brothers by revealing his dreams which imply his superiority over them. In the Old Testament, dreams were seen as divine revelations. As a result, the brothers developed deep hatred and jealousy. Do you antagonize others?

The Plot to Kill Joseph: In search of better pasture, the brothers moved their flocks north from Hebron to Shechem and then Dothan. Jacob sent Joseph to determine how his brothers were doing. His brothers saw Joseph approaching and plotted to kill him and cover it up. Reuben intervened and encouraged the brothers to throw him in a pit so later he could be returned to his father. Reuben’s actions imply an attempt to gain Jacobs favor as first born. How do you react when someone plots against you?

Joseph Sold: The brothers, absent Reuben and encouraged by Judah, took Joseph’s robe, and sold him for 20 pieces of silver to passing Ishmaelite traders who were enroute to Egypt. The narrative later identifies the traders as Midianites (verses 28 and 36). When Reuben discovered what his brothers had done, he mourned either for the loss of his brother (or perhaps the missed opportunity to gain favor with his father). For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every vile practice (James 3:16).

Deception: The brothers then killed a goat and spread its blood on Joseph’s robe and brought it to Jacob telling him that Joseph had been killed by a wild animal. Jacob went into a deep grief over the loss of his favorite son as evidenced by his claiming that his grief would follow him after death.

Favoritism led to envy, jealousy, deception, and grief. Here, all parties failed to control their behavior. Do you allow the Spirit to control your actions? If not, what are the possible consequences of your actions?

Potiphar: The traders sold Joseph to Potiphar, the captain of Pharaoh’s guard.

The cure for the sin of envy and jealousy is to find our contentment in God. - Jerry Bridges

Gleanings from Genesis: Identity

Sun, 14 Jan 2024 13:31:22 GMT

And he said to him, “What is your name?” And he said, “Jacob.” Then he said, “Your name shall no longer be called Jacob, but Israel, for you have striven with God and with men, and have prevailed.” (Genesis 32:27-28)

God’s Camp: Jacob understood that the angels God sent were a reminder that he and his entourage were under God’s protection on the journey to Canaan. Who is your protector?

Jacob Reached out to Esau: Jacob sought to mend his relationship with Esau by sending messengers with a deferential tone to alert his brother that he was returning to Canaan. How do you reset a broken relationship?

Jacob’s Strategy for Survival: When the messengers returned, they informed Jacob that Esau was coming with 400 men. A group that size implied that Esau was preparing to attack Jacob. So he divided his entourage into two camps so one camp could survive. This showed his lack of faith that God would protect him as promised. When you face a challenge, do you take direction from the Lord, or proceed under your own strength and wisdom?

Jacob’s Humility: Sensing danger, Jacob went to God, addressing him for the first time as Yahweh, or Lord. His prayer was one of deep humility, acknowledging his unworthiness. He asked the lord for protection and reminded the Lord of his promise to multiply his offspring and protect them on the Journey. Do you meet with the Lord only when you have a need or do you just spend time with him?

Jacob’s Peace Offering: Jacob’s determination to reconcile with Esau is reflected his language: “your servant Jacob” and “my lord Esau” and sending him 550 animals, both male and female (Genesis 32:13-20). How do you seek reconciliation in a broken relationship?

Jacob Wrestled with God: After sending his family away, Jacob wrestled with a man whom he recognized as God. It was an intense altercation revealing the strength of the Lord as well as Jacob’s determination to succeed under any cost, even with the pain of a displaced hip. Do you carve out time from your routine to be alone with God? Have you experienced a crisis experience requiring total surrendered to the Lord? Do you understand explicitly that aside from the Lord you cannot do anything worthy of his love?

Name Change: As the Lord changed the names of Abraham and Sarah when they placed their trust in him, he changed the name of Jacob to Israel. When we surrender our lives to the Lord, he changes our identity.

Have you had an intense encounter with God? Did he change you? Do you have a new identity?

I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing. (John 15:5)

Gleanings from Genesis: Anger

Sun, 31 Dec 2023 12:45:30 GMT

They killed Hamor and his son Shechem with the sword and took Dinah out of Shechem’s house and went away. The sons of Jacob came upon the slain and plundered the city, because they had defiled their sister. They took their flocks and their herds, their donkeys, and whatever was in the city and in the field. All their wealth, all their little ones and their wives, all that was in the houses, they captured and plundered (Genesis 34:26-29).

Women of the Land: Dinah, Leah’s daughter went out to see the “women of the land.” This term was used negatively by Rebekah in expressing concern that Jacob would marry Hittite women (Genesis 27:46).

Rape of Dinah: When Shechem saw Dinah, he seized her and raped her. He then fell in love with her and began overtures to take her as his wife.

Brothers Reaction: The brothers were angry and engaged in discussions with Hamor. Hamor suggested that in return for Shechem marrying Dinah, Jacob’s sons could marry Hamor’s daughters and offered to open the land and trade with Jacob’s clan. Shechem further suggested he would pay any bride price for Dinah. Jacob’s sons declared that Dinah could marry on the condition that all Hamor’s men be circumcised. Hamor agreed.

Killing Field: While circumcision was the correct condition for the merger of the two groups, Jacob’s sons deceived Hamor by using the men’s incapacitation to carry out revenge on Shechem. Simeon and Levi then slaughtered Hamor, Shechem and all the men of the city. Jacob’s sons then plundered the city and fields, taking everything: women children, flocks, and possessions.

Jacob’s Reaction: When Jacob heard what his sons had done, he was livid. He berated Simeon and Levi fearing that the consequences of their action would bring down the wrath of the people of the land.

Anger: Anger is an emotion; it is not good or bad. The issue is how we respond when we are angry. We have a choice; we can give in to a baser reaction or respond under the Spirit’s control. When angry, do you apply a scorched earth approach to making things right? Or do you reply on God to be in your actions?

Be angry and do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger, and give no opportunity to the devil. (Ephesians 4:26-27)

Gleanings from Genesis: Reconciliation

Sun, 24 Dec 2023 13:14:29 GMT

Esau said, “What do you mean by all this company that I met?” Jacob answered, “To find favor in the sight of my lord.” But Esau said, “I have enough, my brother; keep what you have for yourself.” Jacob said, “No, please, if I have found favor in your sight, then accept my present from my hand. For I have seen your face, which is like seeing the face of God, and you have accepted me. (Genesis 33:8-10)

Recall that Jacob feared Esau who was coming to meet him with 400 men (32: 6-8). When Jacob saw Esau coming, he organized his entourage by placing his servant-wives and their children first, then Leah and her children, with Rachael and Joseph, with whom he had the greatest affection. There are two possible reasons for this order; protecting his family in the event Esau attacked or as an indication that he was coming in peace. Jacob led the group. When facing uncertainty in a relationship, how do you show you are coming in peace?

Esau ran to meet Jacob who bowed seven times out of respect for his older brother. Esau greeted Jacob with great emotion indicating he held no animosity toward his brother. The women and children following him all bowed to Esau. Again, Jacob referred to himself a servant and Esau as lord. How do you show respect to others?

Esau inquired as to all the livestock Jacob had sent ahead (32:4-5). Jacob told him that it was to find favor with him. Esau objected saying he did not need the gifts Jacob sent, but eventually accepted the gifts. Esau urged Jacob to follow him to Seir, however, Jacob refused claiming it would be a hardship on his children and livestock. Is there a broken relationship in your life? How will you restore it?

Jacob then camped at succoth, a short distance from where he met Esau and then moved on to Shechem, about 20 miles to the west, the first place mentioned upon Abraham’s arrival in Canaan (12:6). There, Jacob bought land and built an altar. Perhaps he rebuilt Abraham’s altar since the traditional Hebrew word for building is not used here. He named the altar El-Elohe-Israel (God, the God of Israel), referring to the God he met at Peniel where the Lord changed his name to Israel. (32:27-30)

Conflicts with others require prayerful, careful restoration.

Gleanings from Genesis: Identity

Sun, 17 Dec 2023 13:21:09 GMT

God’s Camp: Jacob understood that the angels God sent were a reminder that he and his entourage were under God’s protection on the journey to Canaan. Who is your protector?

Jacob’s Strategy for Survival: When the messengers returned, they informed Jacob that Esau was coming with 400 men. A group that size implied that Esau was preparing to attack Jacob. So he then divided his entourage into two camps so that one camp would survive, reflecting his lack of faith that God would protect him as he had promised. When you face a challenge, do you take direction from the Lord, or proceed under your own strength and wisdom?

Jacob’s Humility: Sensing danger, Jacob went to God, addressing him for the first time as Yahweh, or Lord. His prayer was one of deep humility, acknowledging his unworthiness. He asks the lord for protection from Esau and reminded the Lord of his promise to multiply his offspring and protect them on the Journey. Do you meet with the Lord only when you have a need or just to spend time with him?

Have you had an intense encounter with God? Did he change you?? Do you have a new identity?

I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing. (John 15:5)

Gleanings from Genesis: Conflict

Sun, 10 Dec 2023 13:45:50 GMT

Then Laban said to Jacob, “See this heap and the pillar, which I have set between you and me. This heap is a witness, and the pillar is a witness, that I will not pass over this heap to you, and you will not pass over this heap and this pillar to me, to do harm. The God of Abraham and the God of Nahor, the God of their father, judge between us.” So Jacob swore by the Fear of his father Isaac. (Genesis 31:51-53)

Conflict with Laban

Laban sons thought that Jacob’s growing prosperity came at their father’s expense. Jacob was also aware he had lost favor with Laban. As tensions grew, the Lord directed Jacob to return to Canaan. Jacob reported the situation and plans to Rachel and Leah giving God the credit for his success. They acknowledged that Laban had “disinherited” them and agreed to leave. How do you respond when you are falsely accused?

Laban Warned

Jacob took his wives, flocks and possessions and left for Canaan but not before Rachael stole Laban’s household gods. Laban pursued them, but the Lord warned him not to say anything, good or bad, to Jacob. How carefully do you choose your words?

Conflict with the Lord

When Laban caught up with Jacob he accused him of trickery because he had departed in secret. Laban then searched for the household gods, but Rachel tricked him and he did not find them. Jacob became angry and explained how he had served Laban for twenty years and how Laban had deceived him “ten times.” Are there things in your life that distract you from your commitment to the Lord?

The Covenant

Laban continued to ignore all that Jacob had done for him. He proposed a covenant with Jacob, perhaps as an attempt to protect his daughters and grandchildren.

Jacob’s Altar and Sacrifice

Jacob agreed and set up a pillar representing his faith in one God. In turn, Laban’s men gathered stones representing Laban’s gods. The pillar and stones are seen as divine witnesses to the covenant that Jacob would not harm Laban. Jacob then built an altar, made a sacrifice, and offered his kinsmen bread. This is the first mention of Jacob building an altar and making a sacrifice. The next day Laban departed for Paddan-aram and Jacob and his family left the hill country for Canaan. Do you have the peace of God in your relationships with those of different background and faith, or even those you do not like?

Seek peace with others.

Gleanings from Genesis: Patience

Mon, 04 Dec 2023 12:39:06 GMT

So the man became exceedingly prosperous, and had large flocks and female and male servants and camels and donkeys. (Genesis 30:43)

Jacob’s Sons: From the previous chapter, we know that to gain Jacob’s love, Leah bore him four sons (Reuben, Simeon, Levi, and Judah).

Rachel, however, was baren and blamed Jacob. In turn, Jacob blamed God.

Rachel directed Jacob to produce children through her servant Bilhah. Bilhah gave birth to two sons whom Rachel named (Dan and Naphtali). (Ancient non-Biblical writing on marriage indicates that children born to a surrogate were included as a part of the family.)

Leah became baren and gave Jacob her servant, Zilpah who bore two sons whom Leah named (Gad and Asher). The Leah conceived and bore two more sons (Issachar and Zebulun).

At this point, it appears that the sisters were competing, and Leah bore two more sons (Ruben and Simeon). Then Rachel conceived and bore a son and named him Joseph. Genesis 35:16-20 reveals that Rachel bore a second son, Benjamin.

Both Rachel and Leah give God the credit for having sons. However, there is no reference to Jacob praying for his wives to bear children as did Isaac did for Rebekah.

Do we let jealousy drive our behavior?

Deception: Jacob then asked Laban for permission to return to Canaan with his wives, children, and flocks. Because Jacob has made Laban a wealthy man he asked Jacob what wages he wanted for continuing to work for him. Jacob responded by asking for the easily identifiable sheep in the Laban’s flock (spotted, stripped, black). Laban then separated the identifiable sheep and gave them to his sons. Jacob then by careful breeding, produced a frock of spotted, stripped, and black sheep from the strongest sheep in Laban’s flock. And Jacob became very wealthy. If anything, Jacob was a patient man.

Patience is the ability to suffer a long time under the mistreatment of others without growing resentful or bitter. Jerry Bridges

Gleanings from Genesis: Deception

Sun, 26 Nov 2023 13:37:40 GMT

So it came about in the morning that, behold, it was Leah! And he said to Laban, “What is this you have done to me? Was it not for Rachel that I served with you? Why then have you deceived me?” But Laban said, “It is not the practice in our place, to marry off the younger before the first-born. (Genesis 29:25)

People of the East: Instead of identifying Jacob’s location as Haran or Paddan Aram, the author describes it as “the land of the people of the east.” Some scholars believe it refers to people who have been expelled or have moved away from God. Moreover, Laban refers to “the God of your father when addressing Jacob in 31:29. Further, Rachel stole her father’s gods (Genesis 31:19-37). Note: When the Lord banished Adam and Eve from the garden, he drove them to the east (Genesis 3:24). Abraham sent his sons by Katurah to the east away from Isaac (Genesis 25:6).

Where are you in your relationship with the Lord?

Meeting the Family: Jacob was at Haran to obtain a wife. Compare this with Abraham’s servant sent to secure a wife for Isaac (Genesis 24): (1) The servant prayed for guidance, Jacob did not; (2) Rebekah gave water to the servant’s camels and is identified as the one chosen to be Isaac’s wife, Jacob provided water to Rachael’s sheep and thereby established a bond with Laban, his uncle. Upon discovery that Jacob was his nephew, Laban greeted him warmly and invited him to stay a month. Jacob was strongly attracted to beautiful Rachael. On the other hand, “Leah’s eyes were weak” (v17) meaning she was less attractive.

Do you seek guidance from the Lord for the tasks ahead?

The Agreement: Jacob agreed to work for Laban for seven years and in return Laban promised Jacob he could marry Rachael. Because he loved Rachael, the seven years passed quickly.

The Deceiver Deceived: The time came for the wedding feast. When evening came, Laban substituted Leah for Rachael which Jacob did not discover until morning. Laban explained it was the cultural tradition that the older sister be married first. Jacob then worked for Laban another seven years so he could marry Rachael.

Are you willing to wait fourteen years for the Lord to fulfill a promise?

Leah’s Sons: While Rachael was baren, Leah bore four sons in hopes of gaining Jacob’s love (Reuben, Simeon, Levi, and Judah).

Are you seeking God’s love?

God doesn't love people because of who they are, but because of who God is. Frederick Buechner

Gleenings from Genesis: The Stipulation

Sun, 19 Nov 2023 12:42:03 GMT

Then Isaac called Jacob and blessed him and directed him, “You must not take a wife from the Canaanite women. Arise, go to Paddan-aram to the house of Bethuel your mother’s father, and take as your wife from there one of the daughters of Laban your mother’s brother. God Almighty bless you and make you fruitful and multiply you, that you may become a company of peoples. (Genesis 28:1-3)

Isaac’s Warning. Isaac instructed Jacob not to take a wife from the Canaanites but to go to Haran and take a wife from one of the daughters of Laban, his uncle. He then blessed Jacob.

Overhearing Isaac’s instructions to Jacob, Esau, having already married Hittite women against his parents will, attempted to curry favor with his parents, married a daughter of Ismael. By this he married into a family that God rejected.

Who you associate with influences your decisions, attitudes, and behavior.

Jacob’s Dream. In his dream, Jacob saw a ladder reaching to from earth to heaven with angels ascending and descending and the Lord above it. The Lord identified himself as his God and invited Jacob to have a personal relationship with him. The Lord then established a covenant with Jacob as he had done with Abraham and Isaac.

Jacob’s Response. Jacob acknowledged that he had met the Lord but promised to make the Lord his God if the Lord carried out his promise of blessing and protection over his travels. Note, unlike his father and grandfather, he did not set an altar to mark the place. Why did Jacob hesitate to accept the Lord as his God? Why did he put a condition on it? Was it because, being a deceiver, he questioned if God was deceiving him? Would the Lord do what he promised?

Are you fully committed to the Lord, or are you waiting for him to act?

Jacob’s Tithe. “If God will be with me . . . And of all that you give me I will give a full tenth to you” (v20-22). Jacob promised to give the Lord a tenth of everything he received if the Lord carried out his promise. This is the first mention of a tithe that would later be commanded in Leviticus 27:30.

Is the tithe the first item on your budget?

“Even for a dyed-in-the-wool, double-barreled con artist like Jacob there are a few things in this world you can't get but can only be given, and one of these things is love in general, and another is the love of God in particular.” Frederick Buechner

Gleenings from Genesis: The Deceivers

Sun, 12 Nov 2023 13:29:59 GMT

So he went in to his father and said, “My father.” And he said, “Here I am. Who are you, my son?” Jacob said to his father, “I am Esau your firstborn. I have done as you told me; now sit up and eat of my game, that your soul may bless me.” (Genesis 27:18-19)

Blindness: (1-4) This chapter is a play on Isaac’s old age and physical blindness. Underlying these events is Isaac’s blindness to the damage done by parental favoritism. Pressured by the obligation to bless his oldest son (before I die), and his appetite for wild game, Isaac asked Esau to prepare and bring him meat from a hunt.

Spiritual blindness keeps us from seeing ways to advance God’s kingdom.

Conspiracy and Deception: (5-25) Rebekah conspires with Jacob to deceive Isaac into giving Jacob the blessing due the eldest son. Dressed in Esau’s clothes and with his arms and neck covered in goat skin, Jacob pretends to be Esau and serves Isaac with a meal prepared by Rebekah.

Unless we stay in the Word, we are easily deceived.

The Blessing on Jacob: 26-29 Being deceived, Isaac gives Jacob the blessing due Esau as the first born. The blessing indicates prosperity, dominion over other nations, a curse on those who cursed him and a blessing on those who blessed him.

The Lord blesses those who are obedient.

Deception Revealed: (30-38) When Esau returns with a meal prepared from game he had killed, the deception is exposed. Isaac was emotionally distraught, and Esau responded with great bitterness and deep anger. Esau recognized that Jacob had now twice deceived him and asked his father for the blessing due him as the first born.

Deception destroys relationships: relationships with the lord and others.

The Blessing on Esau: (39-40) Isaac refused and instead told Esau that he would live in less fertile land, live based on violence, and be Jacob’s servant.

We have a choice; believe and obey and be blessed or reject Jesus offer of salvation and be cursed.

Hatred: (41-45) Esau expressed hatred for Jacob and threatened to kill him. Upon hearing that, Rebekah sent Jacob to her brother, Laban, in Haran for protection.

Does the Spirit control your emotions or do your emotions control you?

A Wife for Jacob: (46) Rebekah told Isaac that she sent Jacob to Laban to find a wife to prevent him from marrying a Canaanite woman. While that was true, it was not the main reason, gives Isaac a cover story and thereby deceiving Isaac again.

A family of deceivers: Abraham, Isaac, Rebekah, and Jacob.

What would you expect? Sin will not come to you, saying, "I am sin." It would do little harm if it did. Sin always seems "good, and pleasant, and desirable," at the time of commission. J. C. Ryle

Gleanings from Genesis: Choices

Sun, 05 Nov 2023 12:41:26 GMT

Now there was a famine in the land, besides the former famine that was in the days of Abraham. And Isaac went to Gerar to Abimelech king of the Philistines. And the Lord appeared to him and said, “Do not go down to Egypt; dwell in the land of which I shall tell you. Sojourn in this land, and I will be with you and will bless you, . . . And in your offspring all the nations of the earth shall be blessed, . . . (Genesis 26:1-5)

Famine: The opening verse sets the famine and people apart from those in chapters 12 and 20. Isaac moved to Gerar because of the famine and perhaps was considering going further until the Lord instructed him not to go to Egypt. “Woe to those who go down to Egypt for help and rely on horses, who trust in chariots because they are many and in horsemen because they are very strong, but do not look to the Holy One of Israel or consult the Lord! (Isaiah 31:1)

Are we obedient even when God direction does not make sense?

The Promise: The Lord went on by extending to Isaac the promise he made to his father (22:16-8) that the nations would be blessed through his descendants on the condition of obedience. The Lord makes his promise to Isaac personal.

The promise of God’s blessing is to each person individually from generation to generation. It is the offer of salvation through Christ Jesus.

Fear: Abraham claimed Sarah to be his sister in Egypt and Gerar out of fear for his safety (chapters 12:10-12 and 20:1-18). Now Isaac feared for his life and claimed Rebekah as his sister at Gerar even though his presence was imposing. And as with Abraham, the ruse was discovered.

Fear is the father of bad decisions.

Conflict: As Isaac’s crops and flocks grew, the Philistines saw him as a threat and prevented him from drawing water from the wells his father’s servant had dug and quarreled with him over new wells. Perhaps these efforts were an attempt to discourage nomads. Isaac moved on and continued to dig wells until the opposition stopped.

When we face conflict, do we know when to stand and fight or when to move on?

Treaty: Again, as in chapter 20, Abimelech (his son or perhaps grandson) sought to make peace with Isaac like Abraham because he saw Isaac and his people as a threat. And Isaac’s servants found water.

Do we seek peace in our relationships?

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Bad Choices: Esau chose two women from the Hittites (Canaanites) to be his wives. Recall that Abraham was adamant that Isaac’s wife not come from the women of the region because of their ungodly influence (24:3). Esau’s choice brought bitterness to Isaac and Rebekah.

Our choices set the course for our future.

Gleanings from Genesis: Choices

Sun, 29 Oct 2023 11:52:05 GMT

These are the days of the years of Abraham’s life, 175 years. Abraham breathed his last and died in a good old age, an old man and full of years, and was gathered to his people. Isaac and Ishmael his sons buried him in the cave of Machpelah, in the field of Ephron the son of Zohar the Hittite, east of Mamre. (Genesis 25:7-8)

Abraham Died. After Sarah died Abraham married Keturah, probably a concubine, and bore him six sons. Abraham sent the sons and their descendants away to the east with gifts but gave his inheritance to Isaac. When Abraham died, Isaac and Ismael buried him in the cave at Machpelah alongside Sarah. The narrative goes on to list the twelve sons of Ishmael and where they settled.

Choice: What is more important, a spiritual legacy or a material legacy?

From Abraham to Isaac. Lists of descendants and the words “These are the generations of ______ . . . ” are used in Genesis to mark a transition between generations. Here it is the transition from Abraham to Isaac.

Esau and Jacob. At first Rebekah was barren but Isaac prayed, and she conceived and bore him twin sons, Esau and Jacob. The two struggled in the womb and the Lord explained that the younger would have authority over the older. As they grew, Isaac loved Esau because he was a hunter and Rebekah love Jacob because he was quiet and lived in tents.

Choice: To play or not to play favorites in the family.

Esau’s Birthright. Esau came in from the field hungry and exhausted and sold his right as the first born for a bowl of Jacob’s stew. The text says that “Esau despised his birthright,” that is, his destiny or right to be in the lineage of Christ. Jacob, on the other hand, stole the birthright from Esau. Jacob, the deceiver, knew what he was doing.

Choice: Are we patient or do we seek immediate gratification?

Human beings judge one another by their external actions. God judges them by their moral choices. C. S. Lewis

Gleanings from Genesis: Divine Appointments

Sun, 22 Oct 2023 12:00:57 GMT

Before he had finished [praying], behold, Rebekah, . . . came out with her water jar on her shoulder. . . . Now Isaac had returned from Beer-lahai-roi and was dwelling in the Negeb. And Isaac went out to meditate in the field toward evening. And he lifted up his eyes and saw, and behold, there were camels coming. (Genesis 24:15, 62-63)

Abraham’s Instructions. Abraham, wanting to find a wife for Isaac, directed a trusted servant to go to “my country” to find a wife for him. Further, he told the servant not to look for a Canaanite wife and not to take Isaac with him. His concern was that Isaac would be led a stray by a Canaanite wife and feared Isaac would not return to the promised land. The servant swore to these conditions.

Believers are not to be unequally yoked in marriage (2 Corinthians 6:14).

Divine Appointment. Upon arrival at the city of Nahor, he stopped at a spring and prayed that the Lord to send a woman to draw water who was suitable for Isaac. Rebekah arrived as he finished his prayer and drew water for him and his camels. Rebekah told him that she was the granddaughter of Abraham’s brother, Nahor and offered the men lodging with her family. The servant then gave thanks to the Lord for leading him to Rebekah.

Do you make it a habit to seek the Lord’s will as you go through life?

Testimony. Rebekah brought the man to her family who welcomed him and provided him food and lodging. The man introduced himself as Abraham’s servant, described how the Lord had blessed Abraham and how the Lord led him to Rebekah.

Does your testimony describe the Lord’s personal involvement in your life?

Divine Appointment. Rebekah went with the servant to Canaan after the family agreed that she should be Isaac’s wife. Isaac was in a field in Canaan meditating when he saw the caravan approaching and went to meet it. Rebekah, upon learning it was Isaac, covered her head as an indication of betrothal and Isaac took Rebekah as his wife.

Are you where the Lord wants you?

There are no coincidences in the lives of God’s children!

Gleanings from Genesis: Eternal Dwelling

Sun, 15 Oct 2023 12:07:15 GMT

Sarah lived 127 years; these were the years of the life of Sarah. And Sarah died at Kiriath-arba (that is, Hebron) in the land of Canaan, and Abraham went in to mourn for Sarah and to weep for her. And Abraham rose up from before his dead and said to the Hittites, “I am a sojourner and foreigner among you; give me property among you for a burying place, that I may bury my dead out of my sight” (Genesis 23:1-4).

Our eternal dwelling. When Sarah died, Abraham mourned and wept. Then he rose or stood up and went to find a place to bury her. Because he did not own land, he went to the Hittites (NKJV and KJV translates them as the sons of Heth), identifies himself as a sojourner or nomad (v4), and asks for property. The writer of Hebrews (11:9-10) reports that he did not have property because he was “looking forward to the city that has foundations, whose designer and builder is God” (11:10).

Do we long for the day when will dwell in the house not made with hands?

Out of Sight. The text twice quotes Abraham as saying, “bury my dead out of sight” (v4 and 7) referring to Sarah and his descendants. By “out of sight” he may have meant that he wanted to remember her alive.

Imposing Presence. Therefore, Abraham asked the people of Hebron for property. In responding to Abraham’s request, the Hittites called him a “prince of God” (v6). Abraham was recognized throughout the region: he and 318 of his men rescued Lot (chapter 14); Abimelech secured a treaty with him (21:22); and here the Hittites offered him the “the choicest of our tombs.” Both Abimelech and the Hittites knew about his relationship with the Lord (20:7, 21:22).

How are we seen by those around us? Do they recognize us by our relationship with the Lord?

Transaction. The Hittites as a whole and Ephron, the owner of the proposed property, offered to give Abraham “the choicest of our tombs” (v6). However, Abraham insisted on paying for the land and the cave. Ephron and the Hittites agreed and Abraham paid for the property in the presence of the men (witnesses) at the gate of Hebron.

The property was transferred to Abraham and the land and the cave in Machpelah belonged to his family forever. The cave became the burial place for Sarah, Abraham, Isaac, Rebekah, Jacob, and Leah.

But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ ( Philippians 3:20 )

Gleanings from Genesis: Provision

Sun, 08 Oct 2023 11:38:32 GMT

After these things God tested Abraham and said to him, “Abraham!” And he said, “Here I am.” He said, “Take your son, your only son Isaac, whom you love, and go to the land of Moriah, and offer him there as a burnt offering on one of the mountains of which I shall tell you.” So Abraham rose early in the morning . . . (Genesis 22:1-3)

“God tested Abraham” (v 1): Since God is all-knowing, he knew Abraham was willing to sacrifice his son. Why was this a test? What was God trying to prove? Was this for Abraham’s benefit of for us as believers? The Lord expects his followers to have the same faith as Abraham.

Are we willing to give up the things that we hold dear when asked by the Lord? Are we like Abraham, obedient even when God’s direction does not make sense?

“Go to the land of Moriah” ( V 2): The Lord was directing Abraham to move from where he was to where he wanted him. The idea of leaving or moving from where we are to where God wants us is repeated throughout scripture: Abraham from Haran to Canaan, Israel from Egypt to Canaan, Paul’s missionary journeys.

Are we willing to move out of our comfort zone, both physically and spiritually, to where the Lord wants us?

Offer him as a burnt offering (v2): The Lord instructed Abraham to sacrifice his only son, the one he loved, as a burnt offering. This command conflicts with the promise that Abraham’s descendants would be greater than the stars in the heavens and sand on the shore through his son. But Abraham faithfully followed those instructions.

Do we hear God’s instructions? Are we obedient?

“On the third day . . .“ (v 4): These words are repeated in Matthew 16:21 and 1 Corinthians 15:4 referring to the resurrection of the Lord on the third day.

Abraham’s faith (v5, 8) Abraham further indicated his faith by telling the young men traveling with them that he and Isaac would return to them and then telling Isaac that the Lord would provide a lamb for the burnt offering.

“And Abraham took the wood . . . and laid it on Isaac” (v 6) Jesus carried the cross, the instrument of his death, to Calvary.

Sacrifices (v 8, 9): The offering of sacrifices on an altar was a part of life for Abraham and his family. Isaac recognized the need for a lamb for the to sacrifice. Following that pattern, Abraham built an altar and prepared Isaac for the sacrifice.

Do we have a routine of laying what we have before the Lord?

The Lord intervened (v11): The angel of the Lord stopped Abraham from sacrificing Isaac and the Lord provided a ram for the sacrifice. Abraham called the place Jehovah Jireh – the Lord will provide, or the Lord my provider. The Lord repeated his covenant with an authoritative assurance that his promise of descendants would be fulfilled. This this time the promise is based on Abrahams willingness to follow God’s instructions even when they made absolutely no sense.

What has the Lord promised you?

Substitutionary Atonement (v 13): The Lord provided a ram for the sacrifice thereby establishing the principle of replacing the guilty person with an innocent person to bridge the gap between sinful man and holy God. God instructed Israel in detail to sacrifice a lamb as a burnt offering as a substitute for their sinful lives (Leviticus 1 and 6:8-13). Under the New Covenant, the sacrifice was the death of Jesus, the only son of God, on the cross as a substitute for punishment of our sins.

Is God’s sacrifice of his Son personal for your sins?

“On the mount of the Lord it shall be provided” (v2, 14): The mount on which Isaac was to be sacrificed is the mount in Jerusalem on which Jesus was sacrificed for the sins of the world.

******************************

The last verses of chapter 22 provide the lineage of Abraham’s brother, Nahor, through his wife Milcah, and lead to Rebekah, Nahor’s granddaughter who became Isaac’s wife. This begins the transition from the story of Abraham to Isaac,

Jehovah Jireh – the Lord will provide.

Gleanings from Genesis: Promises

Sun, 01 Oct 2023 12:11:28 GMT

The Lord visited Sarah as he had said, and the Lord did to Sarah as he had promised. And Sarah conceived and bore Abraham a son in his old age at the time of which God had spoken to him. Abraham called the name of his son who was born to him, whom Sarah bore him, Isaac (Genesis 21:1-3).

“The Lord visited” Sarah, over ninth years old, and she conceived and bore Abraham the son promised in 15:4-6; 17:6, 16; and 18:10, 14. Following the Lord’s instructions, Abraham called the boy Isaac (he laughs) and circumcised him on the eighth day.

At the celebration of Isaac’s weaning, Ismael laughed (mocked) Isaac. From Sarah’s reaction, his misbehavior was based on his perceived inheritance as the first-born son of Abraham. Therefore, Sarah asked Abraham to send Hagar and Ismael away. The Lord confirmed to Abraham that Isaac was the promised offspring, but a great nation would come from Ismael. So, Abraham sent Hagar and Ismael off into the desert with bread and water.

Do you separate yourself from people that interfere with God’s plan for your life?

When the bread and water ran out and Hagar and Isaac were near death, the Lord sent an angel to comfort Hannah and told her a great nation would come from Ismael. The Lord provided water for them. And Hagar found a wife for Ismael from Egypt.

God responds to those who call on him.

Because of Abrahams imposing presence in the region, Abimelech and the commander of his army, acknowledging that the hand of God was on Abraham, proposed a treaty. Abraham agreed and affirmed the agreement with oxen and sheep.

We are to make peace with our neighbors.

When Abimelech’s servants seized Abraham’s well, Abraham gave Abimelech seven ewe lambs to confirm that it was his. The place of this covenant is called Beersheba. And Abraham and Abimelech went their separate ways.

God confirms his covenant with his people with grace, peace, and blessings.

Gleanings from Genesis: Worry

Sun, 24 Sep 2023 12:25:44 GMT

From there Abraham journeyed toward the territory of the Negeb and lived between Kadesh and Shur; and he sojourned in Gerar. And Abraham said of Sarah his wife, “She is my sister.” And Abimelech king of Gerar sent and took Sarah (Genesis 20:1-2).

When Abraham lived in Gerar, he claimed Sarah to be his sister and included her in the ruse. He did this because he assumed the region was godless (v11) and worried his life would be threatened. Clearly, he trusted in his own schemes and not the Lord.

Abimelech, king of Gerar, took Sarah in. But the Lord, protected Sarah by bringing disease on the king and kept the women of his house from bearing children. Further, he informed Abimelech in a dream that Sarah was Abraham’s wife, and that Abraham was a prophet. Abimelech’s vision shows that he was God fearing. Note that Abraham’s sin had consequences on others.

Our worries often turn out to be without basis and cause us to make a mess things.

The Lord, in his power and personal interest, intervened on behalf of Abraham and Sarah. Abimelech returned Sarah untouched, questioned Abraham’s integrity and why he had been misled. Because the Lord identified Abraham as a prophet, Abimelech honored Abraham by giving him sheep and oxen, male and female servants, and land. Abraham then, in his role as intercessor, prayed and the Lord restored Abimelech’s health and freed the women from being baren.

Are you an intercessor?

Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. (Proverbs 3:5-6)

Gleanings from Genesis: Lot

Sun, 17 Sep 2023 12:21:41 GMT

Behold, your servant has found favor in your sight, and you have shown me great kindness in saving my life. But I cannot escape to the hills, lest the disaster overtake me and I die (Genesis 19:19).

We saw Lot think only of himself when he chose the rich pastureland of the Jordan Valley (13:11). We questioned his decision to live in Sodom with wicked men (13:12). Then we are shocked when he offered his daughters as prostitutes to the men of Sodom in place of his guests (19:8-9). Further, he hesitated leaving Sodom when he was told that God would destroy the city (19:15). Then he hid in a cave in the hills out of fear for his life (19:30).

What is your testimony?

We see multiple examples of Abram/Abraham’s conversations with God in Genesis and his being found righteous because of his faith (15:6). The relationship was close and personal. On the other hand, there is no evidence that Lot spent time or conversed with the Lord.

How would you describe your relationship with the Lord? Is it close and personal?

Recall Abraham’s negotiation with the Lord over the destruction of Sodom if ten righteous people were found there 18:22-33). clearly, Abraham was thinking of his nephew’s small family. Moreover, the Lord sent angels to rescue Lot and his family. Strangely, the angels had to physically remove Lot from Sodom (19:16).

Peter calls Lot righteous and said that he was troubled by the wickedness of Sodom (2 Peter 2:7-9).

These events tell us that righteous people sin and that by faith we are declared righteous.

I have given God countless reasons not to love me. None of them has been strong enough to change Him. Paul Washer

Gleanings from Genesis: Protection

Sun, 10 Sep 2023 11:43:21 GMT

As morning dawned, the angels urged Lot, saying, “Up! Take your wife and your two daughters who are here, lest you be swept away in the punishment of the city” (Genesis 19:15).

The wickedness of Sodom. Angels appeared to Lot at the gate of Sodom. He offered them hospitality compelling them to enter his house knowing the danger of letting them go into Sodom. The men of Sodom demanded Lot produce the visitors so they could have sex with them. Lot offered his unmarried daughters to them. The men threaten Lot because he was judging them as a visitor to Sodom. The angels pulled Lot back into the house and blinded the men nearest the door.

Are you aware of the danger in getting close to wickedness?

Leave, do not look back. The angels encouraged Lot and his family and leave the city because the Lord was about to destroy it. Lot hesitated and the angels physically moved him from the city telling them not to look back. As the Lord began destroying the cities, Lot’s wife looked back, and the Lord turned her into a pillar of salt. Did she look back in regret that she was leaving her home or wanted to see God’s wrath poured out or was she thinking about returning?

Dwelling on the past is a barrier to moving forward. Do we take seriously the warnings of scripture?

Intercession. While Abraham was meeting with the Lord in the morning, he observed the smoke from the destruction of the two cities. The Word records that the Lord remembered Abraham’s intercession and removed Lot and his family from Sodom.

The Lord hears our prayers.

Impatience: After leaving Sodom, Lot feared for his life and hid in a cave at Zoar with his daughters. There were no men for his daughters to marry. [The men who were to marry Lot’s daughters did not take the command to leave seriously and perished in the destruction of Sodom (19:14).] So, the daughters got their father drunk and slept with him. They become pregnant and had sons. One son became the father of the Moabites, and the other son became father of the Ammonites. Both tribes caused trouble for the Israelites. This is another example of people taking matters into their own hands with disastrous consequences.

When the Lord is “slow” in answering our prayers, do we step in the solve the problem?

Then we who are alive, who are left, will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we will always be with the Lord (1 Thessalonians 4:17).

Gleanings from Genesis: The Covenant

Sun, 27 Aug 2023 12:40:18 GMT

When Abram was ninety-nine years old the Lord appeared to Abram and said to him, “I am God Almighty; walk before me, and be blameless, that I may make my covenant between me and you, and may multiply you greatly.” (Genesis 17:1-2)

Thirteen years after the birth of Ismael, God approached Abram in a series of statements defining the covenant he was making with Abram and his family. God introduced himself as God Almighty (El Shaddai, meaning all powerful). He challenged Abram to be faithful (walk before me) and faultless (be blameless). In previous promises, God indicated what he would do. In this case the covenant is in two parts, what Abram needed to do and what God would do. The Lord promised that the covenant will be in place if Abram, his descendants are blameless.

As part of the Covenant, God changed Abram’s name to Abraham, a father to the nations including those who are not his biological children. Not only does the covenant cover offspring but the land of Canaan. Further, he instructed Abraham to circumcise all male members of his household at eight days old as a sign of the covenant. Circumcision was to be without regard to race or lineage. Those not circumcised will be cut off from the covenant.

The Lord also changed Sarai’s name to Sarah and promised she would bear a son in a year and that kings of the nations would come from her. Abraham laughed, questioning how that could happen at his age and suggested Ismael be the promised son. God told him his son would be Isaac and the covenant would apply to him and his offspring but not to Ishmael. Abraham then followed God instructions and circumcised all the males in his household.

When we accept the Lord’s offer of salvation and allow the Holy Spirit to work in and through us (becoming faithful and blameless), we enjoy his blessing.

God blesses the faithful and blameless.

Gleanings from Genesis: Impatience

Sun, 20 Aug 2023 12:24:32 GMT

Now Sarai, Abram’s wife, had borne him no children. She had a female Egyptian servant whose name was Hagar. And Sarai said to Abram, “Behold now, the Lord has prevented me from bearing children. Go in to my servant; it may be that I shall obtain children by her.” And Abram listened to the voice of Sarai. (Genesis 16:1-2)

The Lord had promised Abram that his descendants would be uncountable. Yet, Sarai was nearing if not past childbearing age. So, she decided to take matters into her own hand and offered Abram her servant, Hagar. Abram followed Sarai’s suggestion and Hagar bore a son. Abram named him Ismael thereby acknowledging him as his son.

Hagar had contempt for Sarai because she was baren. Sarai blamed Abram for Hagar having his child and Abram permitted Sarai to deal harshly with Hagar such that she ran away.

The angel of the Lord came to Hagar asking questions to get her to understand her situation (see The Lord’s questions to Adam and Eve in 3:9-11). The angel then predicted that Ismael’s descendants would be uncountable, and that he and his descendants would cause trouble for others and others would cause trouble for him and his descendants. Hagar called on the Lord and when he responded, she recognized that the Lord understood her plight.

Aside from the resulting conflict with Islam over the centuries, taking matters into their own hands damaged the relationships between Sarai and Abram and between Hagar and Sarai.

When the Lord does not respond to our perceived needs as quickly as we would like, it is easy for us to take matters into our own hands. We do so not know the Lord’s plans nor consider the consequences of acting on our own.

God’s timing is perfect. Impatience has consequences.

Gleanings from Genesis: Righteousness

Sun, 13 Aug 2023 12:38:08 GMT

And he brought him outside and said, “Look toward heaven, and number the stars, if you are able to number them.” Then he said to him, “So shall your offspring be.” And he believed the Lord, and he counted it to him as righteousness (Genesis 15:5-6).

Abram’s relationship with the Lord is solid enough he could remind the Lord of the promise that he would be the father of nations (chapter 12). The Lord’s response follows Abrams refusal to accept the king of Sodom’s offer of a reward. The Lord promised Abram his reward would be very great and compared his descendants to the stars in the heavens.

This is followed by the very short but powerful statement that Abram believed, and the Lord counted his faith as righteousness (15:6). This statement is repeated in Romans 4:3, 22; Galatians 3:6; and James 2:23. But Abram was not totally obedient. Total obedience is not in our DNA. Like Abram, believers are considered righteous even though they sin.

Abram requested assurance that he would possess the promised land. In response, the Lord told Abram to take a three-year-old heifer, goat, and ram with a turtledove and a pigeon and cut the animals in half. Some interpret this to mean that God would be dead if he did not keep his promise. Another interpretation is that the animals represent the descendants of Abram, all of Israel. Abram followed instructions, but scavenger birds descended on the dead animals. Some believe the scavengers represent Israel’s enemies. Others believe they represent the affliction the Israelites suffered in Egypt.

Then the Lord told Abram in a dream that his offspring would live in Egypt for 400 years and be servants of the Egyptians, that they would leave Egypt with great possessions, that Abram would be buried in peace, and that his people would return to Canaan when the Lord was ready to judge the Amorites.

When Abram completed the preparation of the carcasses, a smoking torch and flaming pot, representing God’s presence, passed between the halves of the animals. Some believe the path between the halves of the animals was a loop forming the symbol for infinity, eternity, or forever. This covenant involved God alone. At the end of the ceremony, the Lord described the boundaries of the land his descendants would possess and listed the people to be displaced.

While The Lord’s covenant with us is on his part alone, we need to believe.

Gleanings from Genesis: Battles and Blessings

Sun, 06 Aug 2023 18:44:49 GMT

And Melchizedek king of Salem brought out bread and wine. (He was priest of God Most High.) And he blessed [Abram]. (Genesis 14:18-19)

This chapter describes the warfare and rebellion in and around the valley of the Dead Sea over a period of several years. During these battles, Sodom and Gomorrah were captured including Lot, his family, and his possessions. Abram was alerted to the capture of Lot and pursued his captors with 318 of his “trained” men, In a nighttime battle, Abram rescued Lot and plundered the enemy, taking their possessions, women, and people.

Following Abram’s victory and the restoration of the king of Sodom, Abram and the returning kings were met by the king Sodom and Melchizedek (King of Righteousness – Hebrews 7:2), the priest of the Most High God who provided bread and wine. Melchizedek Blessed Abram and Abram gave him a tenth of everything.

In contrast, king of Sodom showed disrespect to Abram- perhaps even cursed him. He showed no gratitude for being rescued and proposed an alliance with Abram with conditions. In response, Abram rejected the offer indicating his reliance on God not on human alliances and material possession.

Application: The world is at war with righteousness and those who are of the kingdom of God. It is spiritual warfare. As believers, we are deep in the battle. There are those who need to be rescued and when they are the Lord will bless and the world will curse (12:3).

There is no greater blessing than being present when God rescues a soul from Hell.

Gleanings from Genesis: Choices

Sun, 30 Jul 2023 20:04:52 GMT

Abram settled in the land of Canaan, while Lot settled among the cities of the valley and moved his tent as far as Sodom. Now the men of Sodom were wicked, great sinners against the Lord (Genesis 13:12-13).

After Pharaoh sent Abram and his family away, they returned to Bethel. He and Lot amassed great wealth. When a conflict arose between the herdsmen of Abram and Lot over grazing rights, Abram allowed Lot to choose the land where he would settle. He chose the rich land along the Jordan Valley.

We gain insight into Lot’s thinking in his choice of the best land. There was no interest in negotiating with his uncle. He did not consider what was in the best interest of both.

Even more telling is Lot’s choice to live in or near Sodom It would appear from chapter 19, that Lot did not participate in the sins of the city, but was he attracted by the evil in the city? That chapter describes the evil and God’s anger with it. Lot was warned being told that God would destroy Sodom and that he should leave. When Lot hesitated, the angels removed him physically. Further, the family was told not to look back and when his wife did, she was turned to salt. Evil is attractive.

We are not told that Lot engaged in the wickedness of the city. However, God counted he and his family among the righteous (2 Peter 2:7).

The Lord gives each of us the choice to accept his offer of salvation. As believers, we have the choice to obey the Spirit.

And if it is evil in your eyes to serve the Lord, choose this day whom you will serve … But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord” (Joshua 24:15).

Gleanings from Genesis: Faith

Sun, 23 Jul 2023 12:06:53 GMT

The Lord Speaks: Stephen states that the Lord called Abram “when he was in Mesopotamia (Ur?), before he lived in Haran” (Acts 7:2-3). Here the Lord repeats his call to Abram indicating that Abram had a direct connection with the Lord. No intermediary or translation was needed. The Lord is always speaking to us. The question is, like Abram, are we listening?

The Command: The Lord told Abram to leave his country and family and go to a land he would show him. It is important to note that Abram had to start before the Lord would reveal where he was to go. He told Abram he had to go before he would bless him. Obedience is required before the details are disclosed. Abram was to leave behind everything that was important to him, friends, job, livelihood. He had to move out of his comfort zone. God concluded his call by giving Abram his long-term plan for humanity. Are we willing to go before we know all the details?

Unquestioning Obedience: Abram gathered his family and possessions and travelled to Canaan. Upon arrival the Lord appeared to him and told him he would give Canaan to his descendants. In response Abram built an altar to the Lord, a tradition of the patriarchs to mark places where they met the Lord. How willing are we to respond to God’s call for our lives or to meet an immediate need?

Unbelief: Because of famine, Abram moved from Canaan to Egypt. Upon his arrival passed Sarai off as his sister because he feared for his life. Obviously, Abram did not believe God could or would protect him. Pharaoh took Sarai as his wife and the Lord sent a plague on his house. Abram’s ruse was discovered, and Pharaoh sent Abram and Sarai and all that they had away. God rescued Sarai and Abram. Looking back, God guided and protected Abram and his family from Ur to Haran and from Haran to Canaan. Why, then did Abram have to take things into his own hands? Why do we often take things into our own hands?

What good is it, my brothers, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? (James 2:14)

Hope in Days of Despair 11

Sun, 16 Jul 2023 12:03:52 GMT

My prayer is for you to look beyond today to words of hope for tomorrow.

As In the Days of Noah

There will be great earthquakes, and in various places famines and pestilences. And there will be terrors and great signs from heaven (Luke 21:11).

I shall See God

When Christ who is your life appears, then you also will appear with him in glory (Colossians 4:3).

He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away” (Revelation 21:4)

He who testifies to these things says, “Surely I am coming soon.” Amen. Come, Lord Jesus! The grace of the Lord Jesus be with all. Amen. (Revelation 22:20-21)

Hope in Days of Despair 10

Sun, 09 Jul 2023 12:35:34 GMT

My prayer is for you to look beyond today to words of hope for tomorrow.

As In the Days of Noah

Then he said to them, “Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be great earthquakes, and in various places famines and pestilences. And there will be terrors and great signs from heaven (Luke 21:10).

I shall See God

“Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking into heaven? This Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will come in the same way as you saw him go into heaven” (Acts 1:11)

And not only the creation, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies. For in this hope we were saved. Now hope that is seen is not hope. For who hopes for what he sees? But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience (Romans 8:23-25).

He who testifies to these things says, “Surely I am coming soon.” Amen. Come, Lord Jesus! The grace of the Lord Jesus be with all. Amen. (Revelation 22:20-21)

Hope in Days of Despair 9

Sun, 02 Jul 2023 18:12:53 GMT

My prayer is for you to look beyond today to words of hope for tomorrow.

As In the Days of Noah

And then many will fall away and betray one another and hate one another. And many false prophets will arise and lead many astray. And because lawlessness will be increased, the love of many will grow cold (Matthew 24:10-12).

I shall See God

And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also (John 14:3).

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope (Romans 15:13).

He who testifies to these things says, “Surely I am coming soon.” Amen. Come, Lord Jesus! The grace of the Lord Jesus be with all. Amen. (Revelation 22:20-21)

Hope in Days of Despair 8

Sun, 25 Jun 2023 13:02:33 GMT

My prayer is for you to look beyond today to words of hope for tomorrow.

As In the Days of Noah

“Then they will deliver you up to tribulation and put you to death, and you will be hated by all nations for my name’s sake (Matthew 24:9).

I shall See God

Then will appear in heaven the sign of the Son of Man, and then all the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory (Matthew 24:30).

He who testifies to these things says, “Surely I am coming soon.” Amen. Come, Lord Jesus! The grace of the Lord Jesus be with all. Amen. (Revelation 22:20-21)

Hope in the Days of Despair 7

Sun, 18 Jun 2023 18:42:56 GMT

My prayer is for you to look beyond today to words of hope for tomorrow.

As In the Days of Noah

For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom, and there will be famines and earthquakes in various places. All these are but the beginning of the birth pains (Matthew 24:7).

I shall See God

And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not alarmed, for this must take place, but the end is not yet Matthew 14:6).

I believe that I shall look upon the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living! Wait for the Lord; be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for the Lord! (Psalm 27:13-14)

He who testifies to these things says, “Surely I am coming soon.” Amen. Come, Lord Jesus! The grace of the Lord Jesus be with all. Amen. (Revelation 22:20-21)

Hope in Days of Despair 6

Sun, 11 Jun 2023 12:29:29 GMT

My prayer is for you to look beyond today to words of hope for tomorrow.

As In the Days of Noah

Now the Spirit expressly says that in later times some will depart from the faith by devoting themselves to deceitful spirits and teachings of demons (1Timothy 4:1).

I shall See God

For as the lightning comes from the east and shines as far as the west, so will be the coming of the Son of Man (Matthew 24:27).

The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. “The Lord is my portion,” says my soul, “therefore I will hope in him” (Lamentations 3:22-24)

He who testifies to these things says, “Surely I am coming soon.” Amen. Come, Lord Jesus! The grace of the Lord Jesus be with all. Amen. (Revelation 22:20-21)

Hope in Days of Despair 5

Sun, 04 Jun 2023 12:01:12 GMT

My prayer is for you to look beyond today to words of hope for tomorrow.

As In the Days of Noah

But understand this, that in the last days there will come times of difficulty. For people will be lovers of self, lovers of money, proud, arrogant, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, heartless, unappeasable, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not loving good, treacherous, reckless, swollen with conceit, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having the appearance of godliness, but denying its power. Avoid such people (2 Timothy 3:1-5).

I shall See God

I will take you from the nations and gather you from all the countries and bring you into your own land. I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you shall be clean from all your uncleannesses, and from all your idols I will cleanse you (Ezekiel 36:24-25).

I have set the Lord always before me; because he is at my right hand, I shall not be shaken. Therefore my heart is glad, and my whole being rejoices; my flesh also dwells secure. For you will not abandon my soul to Sheol, or let your holy one see corruption. You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore (Psalm 16:8-11).

He who testifies to these things says, “Surely I am coming soon.” Amen. Come, Lord Jesus! The grace of the Lord Jesus be with all. Amen. (Revelation 22:20-21).

Hope in the Days of Despair 4

Sun, 28 May 2023 17:21:33 GMT

My prayer is for you to look beyond today to words of hope for tomorrow.

As In the Days of Noah

They were filled with all manner of unrighteousness, evil, covetousness, malice. They are full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, maliciousness. They are gossips, slanderers, haters of God, insolent, haughty, boastful, inventors of evil, disobedient to parents, foolish, faithless, heartless, ruthless. Though they know God’s righteous decree that those who practice such things deserve to die, they not only do them but give approval to those who practice them (Romans 1:28-32).

I shall See God

For the Lord himself will descend from heaven with a cry of command, with the voice of an archangel, and with the sound of the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive, who are left, will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we will always be with the Lord. Therefore encourage one another with these words (1 Thessalonians 4:16-18).

He who testifies to these things says, “Surely I am coming soon.” Amen. Come, Lord Jesus! The grace of the Lord Jesus be with all. Amen. (Revelation 22:20-21)

Hope in Days of Despair 1 (5/8/23)

Mon, 22 May 2023 10:46:53 GMT

I am taking a break from Genesis. Over the next three months we will look at what scripture says about “As in the days of Noah” and the hope we have awaiting Chris’s return. While I am concerned about the moral decline in the world today, I take great encouragement from the Word tells me about my future now and forever. My prayer is for you to look beyond today to words of hope for tomorrow.

As In the Days of Noah

For although they knew God, they did not honor him as God or give thanks to him, but they became futile in their thinking, and their foolish hearts were darkened. Claiming to be wise, they became fools, and exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images resembling mortal man and birds and animals and creeping things (Romans 1:21-23).

I shall See God

Behold! I tell you a mystery. We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised imperishable, and we shall be changed. For this perishable body must put on the imperishable, and this mortal body must put on immortality. When the perishable puts on the imperishable, and the mortal puts on immortality, then shall come to pass the saying that is written: “Death is swallowed up in victory” (1 Corinthians 15:52-54).

He who testifies to these things says, “Surely I am coming soon.” Amen. Come, Lord Jesus! The grace of the Lord Jesus be with all. Amen. (Revelation 22:20-21)

Hope in the Days of Despair 3

Mon, 22 May 2023 10:45:03 GMT

My prayer is for you to look beyond today to words of hope for tomorrow.

As In the Days of Noah

For this reason God gave them up to dishonorable passions. For their women exchanged natural relations for those that are contrary to nature; and the men likewise gave up natural relations with women and were consumed with passion for one another, men committing shameless acts with men and receiving in themselves the due penalty for their error (Romans 1:26-27).

I shall See God

But we do not want you to be uninformed, brothers, about those who are asleep, that you may not grieve as others do who have no hope. For since we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so, through Jesus, God will bring with him those who have fallen asleep. For this we declare to you by a word from the Lord, that we who are alive, who are left until the coming of the Lord, will not precede those who have fallen asleep. (1 Thessalonians 4:13-15).

He who testifies to these things says, “Surely I am coming soon.” Amen. Come, Lord Jesus! The grace of the Lord Jesus be with all. Amen. (Revelation 22:20-21)

Hope in Days of Despair 2 (5/15/23)

Sat, 20 May 2023 17:38:58 GMT

My prayer is for you to look beyond today to words of hope for tomorrow.

As In the Days of Noah

Therefore God gave them up in the lusts of their hearts to impurity, to the dishonoring of their bodies among themselves, because they exchanged the truth about God for a lie and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever! Amen (Romans 1:24-25).

I shall See God

Behold, he is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see him, even those who pierced him, and all tribes of the earth will wail on account of him. Even so. Amen (Revelation 1:7).

For I know that my Redeemer lives, and at the last he will stand upon the earth. And after my skin has been thus destroyed, yet in my flesh I shall see God, whom I shall see for myself, and my eyes shall behold, and not another. (Job 19:25-27)

He who testifies to these things says, “Surely I am coming soon.” Amen. Come, Lord Jesus! The grace of the Lord Jesus be with all. Amen. (Revelation 22:20-21)

Gleanings From Genesis: Dispersal (5/1/23)

Sat, 20 May 2023 14:26:53 GMT

And the Lord said, “Behold, they are one people, and they have all one language, and this is only the beginning of what they will do. And nothing that they propose to do will now be impossible for them (Genesis 11:6).

The first part of chapter 11 describes what led to the dispersion of the people and multiple languages mentioned in chapter 10.

The First Problem: There is in our DNA a drive toward self-determination, the need to control our circumstances, independence, and a desire for self-sufficiency. The Lord calls us live in obedience to his direction. In this chapter we see people gathering in one place when the Lord commanded that they fill the earth (9:1).

The Second Problem: The people set out to build a city and a tower. I always thought that the purpose of the tower was to reach God. But the Word says that it was to “make a name for ourselves.” In essence, self-worship. Some believe that these towers (ziggurats) found in Mesopotamia were temples. Regardless, the actions of the people violated the Lord’s command to worship him.

The Lord’s Solution: The Lord saw, once again, that people were setting their own course in life and that they would do whatever they wanted. He confused their language which forced them to migrate by language group.

Abram: The chapter concludes with the descendants of Shem with specific attention on the line leading to Terah, Abram, and Lot and their migration from Ur in Mesopotamia to Haran in what is now southwestern Turkey.

There is no better story in the Old Testament, or perhaps the whole Bible, for depicting the difference between the ladder-defined life and the cross-defined life than that of the Tower of Babel. Tullian Tchividjian

We will pick up Abram and Lot In late July. For the next three months we will look at the promise of hope in times of despair.

Gleanings From Genesis: Reset (4/24/23)

Sat, 20 May 2023 14:21:28 GMT

These are the generations of the sons of Noah, Shem, Ham, and Japheth. Sons were born to them after the flood. . . . These are the clans of the sons of Noah, according to their genealogies, in their nations, and from these the nations spread abroad on the earth after the flood (Genesis 10:1, 32).

The Genealogy in chapters four and five cover Adam to Noah. The genealogy in this chapter describes the repopulation of the earth after the flood and and lists the male descendants of Japheth, Ham and Shem and where they settled and that they had their own language (after dispersion after the Tower of Babel [11:9]). Among the nations listed are those that appear throughout the Old Testament as enemies, or at least, thorns in the side of Israel.

Japheth’s descendants settled around the Mediterranean Sea, while the descendants of Ham settled the along the coast of the Mediterranean Sea and the Arabian Peninsula. Specific attention is given to Nimrod, a man of valor, or according to scholars, a man of violence. He and his descendants settled in Mesopotamia and established the major cities of Nineveh and Babylon. Nimrod’s descendants, the Assyrians and Babylonians, invaded Judah and Israel, respectively, as punishment for Israel’s disobedience and continue to threaten modern Israel today in the form of Syria and Iran.

Shem’s descendants settled in eastern Mesopotamia and down the Arabian Peninsula.

Enoch who “walked with God” and Noah who was to bring relief and comfort are given special attention. In the chapter 10 genealogy there are hints of ungodly behavior but no mention of men following God.

The Lord does not look at our genealogy. He looks at us as individuals. He prepares us today for life tomorrow. He uses our past foibles and failures as tools for encouraging others in their struggles. Yes, we are to lay the burdens of the past at the foot of the cross. But they are useful in shaping our future and ministry. As Paul reminds us . . .

Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus (Philippians 3:13-14).

Gleanings From Genesis: Reset (4/17/23)

Fri, 19 May 2023 18:26:59 GMT

And God blessed Noah and his sons and said to them, “Be fruitful and multiply and fill the earth. (Gen 9:1)

Life: God permitted man to kill animals for food, but prohibited eating flesh with blood, i.e., consuming blood. Blood represents life and God prohibits the taking of life by man because he made man in his own image. An attack on a man is paramount to killing God. God’s command to “be fruitful and multiply” is stated twice here and is a repetition from 1:28 and 8:17. In short, these first seven verses are about the sanctity of life.

The Covenant: “Never again shall there be a flood to destroy the earth.” This covenant covered both man and the “beasts of the earth.” As a reminder of this covenant, he formed the rainbow to be a reminder to both him and man. This is an unconditional covenant, one dependent on God alone, unlike the Edenic Covenant in which God’s promise of life was dependent on man’s obedience.

The Reset: The narrative continues by describing the multiplication of man through Noah’s sons, Shem, and Japheth, and Ham.

Sin: The chapter ends with Noah getting drunk with wine and laying naked in his tent. Ham observed Noah’s nakedness and told his brothers who discretely covered their father. Noah shamed himself by lying naked and Ham dishonored his father by observing his nakedness and telling his brothers. Nakedness is an anathema to God. Recall he covered the nakedness of Adam and Eve with animal skins. God had blessed Noah, and his sons so Noah cursed Canaan, his grandson, for Ham’s sin.

New life in Christ brings understanding of right and wrong and his covenant. It brings transformation, new challenges and opportunities and opposition. The new life for us is Christ in me.

to put off your old self, ^[ ^a ^] which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires, and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds, and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness. Ephesians 4:22-24

Gleanings From Genesis: Excuses (2/27/23)

Mon, 24 Apr 2023 03:36:16 GMT

Shem’s descendants settled in eastern Mesopotamia and down the Arabian Peninsula.

Gleanings From Genesis: Separation (3/6/23)

Mon, 24 Apr 2023 03:35:38 GMT

Then Cain went away from the presence of the Lord and settled in the land of Nod, east of Eden (Genesis 4:16).

There are three sins in the story of Cain: anger at God for rejecting his offering, jealousy because Abel’s offering was accepted, and his failure to be reconciled with God. The Lord punished Cain by preventing crops from growing on his land because Abel’s blood was in the soil. As a result, Cain became a wanderer. Yet God promised to protect Cain from those who would him harm.

Cain lacked remorse, objected to his punishment, had deep concern for his wellbeing, and “went away from the presence of the Lord.” In short, he was both physically and spiritually separated from God. He exiled himself, a conscious decision.

First we must acknowledge our sins and accept the Lord’s offer of salvation. If we are not serious in this decision, we are condemned to wander from thought to thought and from “truth” to “truth” never finding secure footing in life or a personal relationship with the Lord.

Second, even in salvation we can choose not to follow the will of God. When we fail to listen to the Spirit’s prompting and do not confess and repent, we break the relationship we have with the Lord. If our acceptance of the offer of salvation is sincere, we are guaranteed eternal life with the Lord. Failure to confess sins restricts the flow of blessings in the abundant life now.

“It is only deliberate, willful sin that has not been confessed and forgiven that makes us feel that God has forsaken us, for that sin causes Him to hide His face from us.”

Alan Redpath

Gleanings From Genesis: Obedience (3/20/23)

Mon, 24 Apr 2023 03:34:51 GMT

So the Lord said, “I will blot out man whom I have created from the face of the land, man, and animals and creeping things and birds of the heavens, for I am sorry that I have made them.” But Noah found favor in the eyes of the Lord (Genesis 6:7-8).

This chapter opens with a description of rampant sexual perversion and evil in the world. “Everyone did what was right in his own eyes” (Judges 21:20). Therefore, God said he would destroy the earth.

But Noah found favor with the Lord. Noah was set apart from the wickedness of his generation and the Lord chose to use him to reset creation.

In the second part of the chapter, the Lord gave Noah instructions on constructing the ark and what to load on the ark. He told Noah he would destroy the earth with a flood.

The Lord is always looking for faithful men and women through whom he can do great things. The Lord uses obedient and faithful people for tasks that advance his kingdom. There are many examples of God working through his people, Noah, Moses, David, Paul, and Martin Luther. Billy Graham . . .

What are great things? Leading someone to the Lord, encouraging someone in their faith, mentoring, and teaching (using spiritual gifts). Meeting spiritual or physical needs. We are called to change the world, our world.

What is the world the Lord has called you to change, your family, your fellowship, neighborhood, community . . .

Noah’s faith produced obedience. Even though he stood alone, and the scholars and leaders of the community mocked him, Noah made an ark exactly as God told him to make it.

Bob Burridge

Gleanings From Genesis: Faith (3/27/23)

Mon, 24 Apr 2023 03:34:10 GMT

He blotted out every living thing that was on the face of the ground, man and animals and creeping things and birds of the heavens. They were blotted out from the earth. Only Noah was left, and those who were with him in the ark. And the waters prevailed on the earth 150 days (Genesis 7:23-24).

The Lord repeated his instructions on loading the ark. The record identifies the specific day on which the rain began (based on Noah’s age). The narrative repeats Noah’s loading of the ark and a graphic description of the antihalation of all life on the earth except that which was on the ark.

Noah’s faith – he believed what the Lord said would happen even when nothing like this had happened before. He was obedient in following God’s detailed instructions on constructing the ark and followed God’s detailed directions on loading the animals on the ark. Note: at this point, the animals did not fear man and obeyed Noah (see Genesis 9:2).

When God is going to perform a miracle, he expects us to step out in faith. Moses had to stretch his hand out over the Red Sea before the Lord parted the waters. The priests had to step into the Jordan River before God stopped the river. The Israelites had to march around Jericho before God destroyed the city.

By faith Noah, being warned by God concerning events as yet unseen, in reverent fear constructed an ark for the saving of his household. By this he condemned the world and became an heir of the righteousness that comes by faith (Hebrews 11:7).

Gleanings From Genesis: Details (4/3/23)

Mon, 24 Apr 2023 03:32:35 GMT

But God remembered Noah and all the beasts and all the livestock that were with him in the ark. And God made a wind blow over the earth, and the waters subsided. Genesis 8:1

When God remembers people in scripture, he is about to act, to do a great work. In this case stopping the rain, eliminating the flood waters, releasing the occupants from the ark, and making a covenant with Noah.

This chapter provides a detailed account of God’s actions, the timing of events, the testing of conditions, God’s command to disembark, and his instruction to be fruitful and multiply.

The chapter closes with Noah offering a burnt offering that was pleasing to the Lord. The Lord then promised not to “curse the ground because of man’” nor “strike down every living creature,” and then establishes the routine for life.

Throughout this narrative and many other places in scripture, we see the Lord as a God of details. Do we recognize the God of details in our lives. Do we understand that all the details of our lives serve a purpose? Moreover, do we live our lives based on his promises as did Noah. He has told us that he has a plan for us and that he provides eternal protection for believers despite what is going on in our lives or around us (Jeremiah 29:11). Because of his promises we can go through life on faith, hope, and his grace.

I know of nothing which stimulates my faith in my Heavenly Father as to look back and reflect on His faithfulness to me in every crisis and every chilling circumstance of life. Over and over, He has proved His care and concern for my welfare. Again and again, I have been conscious of the Good Shepherd’s guidance through dark days and deep valleys.

Phillip Keller

Gleanings From Genesis: Noah as a Type of Christ (4/10/2023)

Mon, 24 Apr 2023 03:26:58 GMT

“By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house; by the which he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith” (Hebrews 11:7).

Righteous: “knowing that you were ransomed . . . with the precious blood of Christ, like that of a lamb without blemish or spot” (1 Peter 1:18-19). While scripture never claims that Noah was spotless, he alone stood out in his day as a righteous man.

Obedient: Jesus said, “but I do as the Father has commanded me, so that the world may know that I love the Father” (John 14:31). Noah’s faithful obedience was the reason the Lord chose him to reset creation. Further, Noah followed the Lord’s commands in constructing the ark, gathering and loading the animals, and releasing his family and the animals from the ark.

Savior: Jesus said, “For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost” (Luke 9:10). By following God’s orders, Noah was the physical savior of the world.

Condemnation: Jesus said, “If anyone hears my words and does not keep them, I do not judge him; for I did not come to judge the world but to save the world (John 12:17).” The writer of Hebrews makes it clear; the life of obedience is blessed, while doing what is right on one’s eyes brings death. The Word does not say that judgement and condemnation have been eliminated. They are real for those who reject Christ’s offer of salvation.

Herald of Truth: “This man [Nicodemus]came to Jesus by night and said to him, “Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher come from God . . .” Peter said called Noah a herald of righteousness (2 Peter 2:5). While we think of Jesus as a teacher, both teachers and preachers proclaim the truth. They proclaim to a _____________-

There is but one Church in which men find salvation, just as outside the ark of Noah it was not possible for anyone to be saved. Thomas Aquinas