Today's Spiritual Understanding

The Bible in 90 Days (Week Nine)

2009-08-11T06:46:00.008-05:00

Text Overview
In this discussion we take on Jeremiah’s lament over the conditions which unfolded before his eyes concerning the state of his people and the events they were facing. The problem presents itself because of rebellion and sin against God. Having turned away from adherence to the covenant, the wrath of God was upon them. Heartbroken, Jeremiah expresses anguish and sorrow in his lamentation while trying to offer reason and hope for a restored future. Also, we move into the prophecies of Ezekiel and the restoration of Israel. Written during the exile of the Jews in Babylon; his book offers hope while under the subjection of king Nebuchadnezzar.

The Book of Lamentations

In the Hebrew canon the book is called 'Eikhah, which means "How,"and is the first word at its start. The rendered name, "Lamentations", (Greek threnoi = Hebrew qinoth) is now in common use, to describe the tone of the author’s mood throughout the work. Although Jeremiah’s name never appears in the body, by tradition he is credited as the writer. He was serving as a court official during the conquest of Nebuchadnezzar, when the temple was destroyed and Jehoiachin was taken prisoner. However, the style of acrostic poetry followed by four of the five poems is not found in the book of his name.
It is known for certain that Jeremiah wrote a lament on the death of Josiah, a fact well known in his time; but clear agreement on this work is in debate.

Lamentations 1:8 (NIV)
Jerusalem has sinned greatly and so has become unclean. All who honored her despise her, for they have seen her nakedness; she herself groans and turns away.

Lamentations is made up of five poems, one for each chapter. Chapters one, two, and four are written as acrostics with each verse beginning with the next letter of the Hebrew alphabet. The third chapter is also an acrostic poem but written in an expanded form with three verses given for each of the 22 alphabet letters. The final poem and fifth chapter is not an acrostic but is written with 22 verses as is the first, second, and forth. The many expressions i.e. daughter of, used in both Lamentations and Jeremiah; as well as the sensitive use of rich symbols and metaphors lend credit to the traditional view of Jeremiah being the author.

Lamentations 2 (NIV)
How the Lord has covered the Daughter of Zion with the cloud of his anger! He has hurled down the splendor of Israel from heaven to earth; he has not remembered his footstool in the day of his anger.

Jeremiah’s sorrow over the fall of Jerusalem is more than just anguish for a captured city. It expresses the loss of God’s presence among the Israelites. It echo’s the fall into sin and mans loss of fellowship with God. More than just the city of David, Jerusalem was the focal point and place of God’s work of redemption. In later years it becomes the place of the final work of salvation with the crucifixion of Christ. Lamentations reminds us of the important role Jerusalem plays in God’s plan for the entire world.

Lamentations 2:7 (NIV)
The Lord has rejected his altar and abandoned his sanctuary. He has handed over to the enemy the walls of her palaces; they have raised a shout in the house of the LORD as on the day of an appointed feast.

The Book of Ezekiel

The prophet Ezekiel was a priest taken into captivity by Babylon. His writings cover some of the early years of the exile and his message was to the captive people of Judah living in Tel Abib along the River Chebar. His book is separated into three sections, the first two describing judgments, and the latter foretells a future blessing for God’s chosen. Chapter one opens with an amazing vision of God’s might, power, and glory as it was reviled in a vision charging him to proclaim the Lord’s judgments. Because of it’s symbolic use of vivid language the book shares a similarity with that of John’s Revelation.

In the first section, (chaps. 4-24) God’s judgment of Judah is given due to their widespread idolatry. It’s interesting also that Ezekiel delivers his message to Jerusalem in the city itself, having been transported there by God during one of his visions. (chaps. 8-11) The message is continued in Babylon after being returned. (Ezek. 11:24-25) The final siege of Jerusalem is described in chapter 24. This event is marked in several ways to show God’s wrath against the wayward nation. Ezekiel is instructed to record the date as a memorial of its importance. A symbol of a cooking pot with scum rising from the meat is used as a clear judgment toward Israel from God. On the very same day, to add emphasis to God’s anger, Ezekiel’s wife dies and he is not permitted to morn, just as God can not morn for Israel; the delight of His own eye.

Ezekiel 5:8-12 (NIV)
"Therefore this is what the Sovereign LORD says: I myself am against you, Jerusalem, and I will inflict punishment on you in the sight of the nations. Because of all your detestable idols, I will do to you what I have never done before and will never do again. Therefore in your midst fathers will eat their children, and children will eat their fathers. I will inflict punishment on you and will scatter all your survivors to the winds. Therefore as surely as I live, declares the Sovereign LORD, because you have defiled my sanctuary with all your vile images and detestable practices, I myself will withdraw my favor; I will not look on you with pity or spare you. A third of your people will die of the plague or perish by famine inside you; a third will fall by the sword outside your walls; and a third I will scatter to the winds and pursue with drawn sword.

The judgment against the surrounding nations of Israel is prophesied in the next section. (chaps. 25-32) Here you find predictions addressing Ammon, Moab, Edom, Philistia, Tyre, Sidon, and Egypt. These nations, all persecutors of Israel, incurring the wrath of God for their arrogance and pride would come to an end.

Ezekiel 26:20-21 (NIV)
then I will bring you down with those who go down to the pit, to the people of long ago. I will make you dwell in the earth below, as in ancient ruins, with those who go down to the pit, and you will not return or take your place in the land of the living. I will bring you to a horrible end and you will be no more. You will be sought, but you will never again be found, declares the Sovereign LORD."

The final section relates the vision of future restoration for Israel. (chaps.33-48) Contained here is the famous “Valley of the Dry Bones” depiction. (Ezek.37) Ezekiel speaks to the bones at God’s command and they rise. God makes the declaration that He will put His spirit in them and they will live. (Ezek.37:14) This is a clear promise of restoration which is carried forward in chapters 40-48, with the renewing of the temple and the return of sacrifices and worship.

Ezekiel brings forward the idea of individual responsibility. The book teaches that every person is responsible for his own sin. (See Ezek. 18:20) The people of his time had fallen into a covenant group mentality. Often they would overlook the need for individual adherence to God’s Will, thinking they were covered as a group chosen by God. The book stresses the need for each one of us to make a personal decision to follow the Lord. It also points to the time when, through a descendant of David, God would establish His universal rule; a reference to the Messiah. (See Ezek.37:24-25) A prophecy fulfilled with the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem, about 500 yrs later.

Ezekiel 43:6-9 (NIV)
While the man was standing beside me, I heard someone speaking to me from inside the temple. He said: "Son of man, this is the place of my throne and the place for the soles of my feet. This is where I will live among the Israelites forever. The house of Israel will never again defile my holy name—neither they nor their kings—by their prostitution and the lifeless idols of their kings at their high places. When they placed their threshold next to my threshold and their doorposts beside my doorposts, with only a wall between me and them, they defiled my holy name by their detestable practices. So I destroyed them in my anger. Now let them put away from me their prostitution and the lifeless idols of their kings, and I will live among them forever.

This Week

As you already know these reviews are running behind. By now you should be well into the New Testament and looking to wrap up the reading within two weeks. I will be cranking out my reviews as quickly as I can manage with the schedule I’m following. The next discussion should cover the rest of the prophets and put me into the gospels. I look forward to that very important part of scripture… the life and times of Christ. Please continue your quest to finish in “90 Days” , and be encouraged… you are not alone.

Reminders

The Daily Readings are posted here… BibleGateway

The Alternate Reading plan for this week

August – Tenth Week:
Day 64 – Ezekiel – 46 –- Daniel - 9
Day 65 – Daniel – 10 –- Joel -3
Day 66 – Amos – 1 – Nahum 2
Day 67 – Nahum – 3 –- Zechariah - 12
Day 68 – Zechariah – 13 –- Matthew 9
Day 69 – Matthew - 10 – 18
Day 70 – Matthew -19 – 26

Ezekiel 37:26-27 (NIV)
I will make a covenant of peace with them; it will be an everlasting covenant. I will establish them and increase their numbers, and I will put my sanctuary among them forever. My dwelling place will be with them; I will be their God, and they will be my people.

Blessings,
Matt.

The Bible in 90 Days (Week Eight)

2009-08-05T04:46:00.016-05:00

Text Overview

The book of Isaiah starts the section of books referred to as the Prophets. This section is divided into two groupings… the “Major Prophets” and the “Minor Prophets.” The designation is more associated with the length of the work as opposed to the significance of the particular prophet himself. The word prophet comes from the Greek word: Prophets; pro-, before; and phetes- speaker, which literally means to speak before. Prophets in the Biblical sense were those who were given the Word of God concerning events before their occurrence. In Deuteronomy, it clearly says that the test of a prophet is found in his message… what he says is God’s Word must come true. (Deut. 18) Also it is the duty of a prophet to keep focus away from other gods or idols, giving instruction to follow the Lord and His commands alone. (Deut. 13) The Prophets played a significant role during the time of the kings; certainly when the kingdoms were turned away from their agreement to the covenant.

The Book of Isaiah

The traditional authorship is credited to the prophet Isaiah but there is debate over his being the writer of the entire work. The first section of the book is clearly his work but the second portion contains problems that have not been clearly resolved by the Biblical community. A period of 300 years is covered in this books collection of prophecies. He is believed to have written only the first 39 chapters; the rest are by one or more unknown authors. One suggestion put forward is that students of his kept his oracles preserved and added to them in later years. Given the accuracy of his foretelling of Christ, it is not difficult for me to hold faith in his ability to see the future just ahead of his own lifetime. It’s also interesting to note that the book contains 66 chapters and is split at the same point that the Bible is divided. There are 39 books in the Old Testament and 27 books in the New Testament. History also splits at this point in the Bible concerning the view of Christ and how He is regarded.

Isaiah 7:14 (NIV)
Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel.

Isaiah received his calling as God’s instrument during the year of, or just before king Uzziah's death (around 742 B.C.) and was a voice during the reigns of kings Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah. His message was both moral and political. He addressed the issues of social injustice among God’s chosen people as did other of the prophets of the 8th century time period. (Amos, Hosea, Micah) Isaiah’s breakdown is into the following major sections. In the first 39 chapters you find the prophecies of doom against Judah. Isaiah challenges their (Judah’s) understanding of being protected as God’s covenant people. He points out that by idolatry, acts of injustice and cruelty, the things which oppose God's law; they have broken the covenant. (See Isa.1-5) Chapter 6 gives an account of his vision and call to prophecy.

Isaiah 6:5-8 (NIV)
"Woe to me!" I cried. "I am ruined! For I am a man of unclean lips, and I live among a people of unclean lips, and my eyes have seen the King, the LORD Almighty." Then one of the seraphs flew to me with a live coal in his hand, which he had taken with tongs from the altar. With it he touched my mouth and said, "See, this has touched your lips; your guilt is taken away and your sin atoned for." Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, "Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?"
And I said, "Here am I. Send me!"

There is the message of salvation through the line of David and a renewed Jerusalem, followed by prophecies against the foreign nations. (Assyria, Babylon, the Philistines, Moab, Damascus, Cush, and Egypt) The foretelling of the destruction and redemption of Zion is predicted. Next, we are given an account of Sennacherib's unsuccessful siege of Jerusalem and his assassination long after. (See 2 Kings 18-19) The sickness of Hezekiah is covered again along with his prayer and recovery and is followed by his receiving of the envoys from Babylon and prophecy of captivity there. (See Isa.8-39)

Isaiah 11:4-5 (NIV)
but with righteousness he will judge the needy, with justice he will give decisions for the poor of the earth. He will strike the earth with the rod of his mouth; with the breath of his lips he will slay the wicked. Righteousness will be his belt and faithfulness the sash around his waist.

Isaiah 14:1 (NIV)
The LORD will have compassion on Jacob; once again he will choose Israel and will settle them in their own land. Aliens will join them and unite with the house of Jacob.

Isaiah 24:1-2, 5-6 (NIV)
See, the LORD is going to lay waste the earth and devastate it; he will ruin its face and scatter its inhabitants- it will be the same for priest as for people, for master as for servant, for mistress as for maid, for seller as for buyer, for borrower as for lender, for debtor as for creditor.

*****

The earth is defiled by its people; they have disobeyed the laws, violated the statutes and broken the everlasting covenant. Therefore a curse consumes the earth; its people must bear their guilt. Therefore earth's inhabitants are burned up, and very few are left.

Take note that the reference is to the inhabitants of the earth, not just God’s people alone. Remember that the sun’s rays and the rain drops fall on both the wicked and the just.

The remaining chapters (40-66), which are known as the “Second, or Second and Third Isaiah”, depending on which of the Biblical arguments you subscribe to; deal with the following themes. There is the delivery from captivity, redemption from sin, and the redeemed state of Israel.

The prophecy of these chapters is sometimes referred to as “The Book of Comfort” which begins in chapter 40 and completes the writing.

Isaiah foretells the deliverance of God’s chosen from the Babylonians and their return to the land God promised. (Isa.40-47) The reaffirmation that the children of Israel are God’s chosen, and that He is the supreme ruler for all the universe; is the message carried forward through the judgment and display of His power over Babylon. (Isa.46) The remaining chapters give prophecies concerning the future of Israel under a righteous servant, God’s judgment for false worshippers and idolaters, as well as the hope of salvation to the righteous. (Isa.52-66)

Isaiah 40:3 (NIV)
A voice of one calling: "In the desert prepare the way for the LORD; make straight in the wilderness a highway for our God.

The Book of Jeremiah

Jeremiah was the son of Hilkiah, a priest from Anathoth, and is the second in order of the Major Prophets. His writings are collected together in this book and traditionally, he is credited with the book of Lamentations as well. Jeremiah’s prophecies reflect his heart broken view of life, and so he is known as "the broken-hearted prophet." His warning was mostly ignored by the people of Israel and he was told by God, "When you tell them all this, they will not listen to you; when you call to them, they will not answer. (Jer.7:27)

Jeremiah 7:9-10 (NIV)
" 'Will you steal and murder, commit adultery and perjury, burn incense to Baal and follow other gods you have not known, and then come and stand before me in this house, which bears my Name, and say, "We are safe"-safe to do all these detestable things?

Jeremiah has been referenced as "the prophet of doom," as he was used as the spokesman for the destruction of Jerusalem's first Temple. But there's much more to this prophet than just a message of doom. Jewish history records Jeremiah as the one who placed his life at risk in pleading to the king to change his ways while there was still time... but for his trouble, he was sent to prison without food or hope of rescue. (Jer.37-38) Jeremiah was also the prophet who wrote the scroll that became the book of Lamentations. It was first torn up and thrown into a fire, only to be rewritten. (Jer.36) He also, after being saved from prison by the king of Babylonia, (Jer.39:11-14) found courage to give him prophecies foretelling the end of that nation. (Jer.50-51) Jeremiah joined the sufferers marching in exile to Babylonia but returned to Jerusalem to deliver more of God’s Word. (Jer.40) He even followed that remnant of Israel on their self-imposed exile in Egypt; after they hadn't listened to him when he told them not to go. (Jer.42) He was a man totally dedicated to his people, concerned with their best interest. Giving harsh rebuke in an effort to turn them back to the right path, and offering compassion when they needed comfort; Jeremiah was there as God’s servant without thought for his own safety or honor.

Jeremiah 51:56 (NIV)
A destroyer will come against Babylon; her warriors will be captured, and their bows will be broken. For the LORD is a God of retribution; he will repay in full.

As we move forward more insights from the prophets will be covered. We will take a look at the laments found in Jeremiah’s Lamentations as well as the predictions of Ezekiel. If you have been keeping to the plan you should be out of the Old Testament and starting in the New Testament gospels. I know the reviews are running behind a bit and I apologize for the delay. My seminary classes have resumed and it’s hard to find the time to write. I will make an effort to get caught up so please bear with me. We have less than30 days to get through this reading and I want to thank everyone for your dedication and efforts. Please continue your quest to finish in “90 Days”, and be encouraged… you are not alone.

Reminders

The Daily Readings are posted here… BibleGateway

The Alternate Reading plan for this week

July - August – Ninth Week:
Day 57 – Jeremiah – 12 – 26
Day 58 – Jeremiah – 27 – 39
Day 59 – Jeremiah – 40 – 51
Day 60 – Jeremiah – 52 –- Ezekiel - 8
Day 61 – Ezekiel – 9 – 21
Day 62 – Ezekiel - 22 – 33
Day 63 – Ezekiel -34 – 45

Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV)
For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

Blessings,
Matt.

This Week
The Book of Comfort

The Bible in 90 Days (Week Seven)

2009-07-24T23:14:00.007-05:00

Text Overview
This week we expand our study of love and wisdom, taking a deeper look at the books in this section. During the period of the kings, Israel went through a range of activity, the emotions, and levels of understanding concerning their regard for the Lord, cover many levels. At times the relationship was close and it reflects in the expressions in these writings. On the other hand, there were those times when relationship toward God was at best confusing if not downright strained. The broad range of feelings and the attempt to express them remains of value from that time to our present day.

Those that loved Our Lord were not ashamed. A close look into the book of Psalm gives an intense view of the depth and the extent, of that. God, as we know is the source of that love as well as the reason behind mans capacity to give love in return. It is interesting to also note that wisdom is placed in this section. In a lot of ways the two go hand in hand; overlapping and sharing in phenomenon.

We will look at the two subjects; love and wisdom from many sides, over a period of time, and from different contributors. We will place our reflections on the valuable lessons to be learned from those that developed a true relationship, guided and directed by God.

The Kethubim
A term meaning "Writings"; Job, Proverbs, and Psalms, along with the two books of Chronicles were classified by the ancient Jews with this label and assigned as the third portion of the Old Testament scriptures. Later the early Christian Church applied the term "Hagiographa", to refer to the Holy Writings. (See Bible Encyclopedia)

No matter which term you put to use one can agree that these scriptures are not only inspired but have been an inspiration from the start. The other two sections differ in a profoundly unique way. The "Law", came from God's hand, and the "Prophets", brought the "Word of God"; but these writings are expressed feelings and understandings of men Inspired by their relationship with God. They are led by the Spirit to reveal what God is and what He does for those in a right relationship with Him.

The Psalms and Their WritersThere are 73 psalms which are credited to David. The second psalm probably was written by him as well; Acts 4:25 quote him as the author although traditionally it is one of the 48 that are said to be anonymous. About two-thirds of the whole collection has been ascribed to David. The Psalter or the volume of the Kethubim containing the Psalms is divided into five books, each closing with a doxology or benediction:

The first book has 41 psalms, all written by David. With the exception of psalms 1, 2, 10, and 33, which, even though is thought to be anonymous in origin, may also be from his hand. This is where we find psalms 23, 27, and other familiar offerings. The first psalm lays the groundwork for what man can expect in a relationship with God. It echoes the feelings of Moses found in Deut. 28 and gives advise on how to ensure the blessings over the curses.

Psalm 1:1-2 (NIV) Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked or stand in the way of sinners or sit in the seat of mockers. But his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on his law he meditates day and night.

From the beginning man has been given the freedom of choice; it is God's Will that our devotion to Him is genuine. Due to the corruption of sin, we have also been given God's counsel through His commandments as well as through His prophets and teachers; men of God to help us understand His instruction. The choice we make will determine the judgment we receive.

The next 31 psalms, 42-72, credit David with writing 18 and Solomon, his son with the last, psalm 72. The rest are anonymous. Just reflect on the opening verse as Solomon remembers the requests of his father David for the justice and righteousness of God that he prayed for him to receive.

Psalm 72:1 (NIV) Endow the king with your justice, O God, the royal son with your righteousness.

One could view this prayer as the request of David on his death bed or as the request of young Solomon to God for the government of his people, each clearly demonstrates the desire to be aligned with God's Will for true justice; not as seen by men but as the Will of God would have for men to see.

There are 17 psalms 73-89, in the third book, and only one credited to David; psalm 86. Only two others are assigned as authors. Psalm 88 credited to Heman the Ezrahite, a grandson of Samuel and one of the “seers” named in 2 Chr. 29:14, 30. The other, psalm, 89 is credited to Ethan another Ezrahite who was probably the same as Jeduthun, a Levite of the family of Merari. He was one of the three masters of music Appointed by David. (1 Chr. 25:1-6). Compare the opening verses from these two writers.

Psalm 88:1 (NIV) O LORD, the God who saves me, day and night I cry out before you.

Heman, the writer opens in distress, making an appeal to the one source he knows for comfort. When the world around him offered no comfort... God was still available.

Psalm 89:1 (NIV) I will sing of the LORD's great love forever; with my mouth I will make your faithfulness known through all generations.

Faith in the love of God, His promises, and the belief that He is unfailing is not only praised but committed to the generations to come.

Of the 17 psalms in the forth book, 90-106, the 90th psalm is credited to Moses, while the 101st and 103rd we also get from David. The last two verses of this psalm, a prayer of Moses shows the faith he held in the abilities of Our Heavenly Father.

Psalm 90:16-17 (NIV) May your deeds be shown to your servants, your splendor to their children. May the favor of the Lord our God rest upon us; establish the work of our hands for us— yes, establish the work of our hands.

The prayer recalls to my mind the feelings expressed in the classic gospel song "Open Our Eyes", take a moment and listen.

The fifth, and last book contains the remaining 44 psalms. Of these, 15 are credited to David, and psalm 127 given to Solomon. Here Solomon Sums up his feelings of just how useless it is to do anything without considering the Lord.

Psalm 127:1 (NIV) Unless the LORD builds the house, its builders labor in vain. Unless the LORD watches over the city, the watchmen stand guard in vain.

The house may be a family, a community, a city, or a nation; as close or as broad as you make it. If your effort to make it, "build", is without the Lord, what success can you have? The efforts made by taking confidence in what this world has to offer will have you receive what this world has to give... only a short term and temporary solution. Any and all labor to this end will be a labor done in vain.

Proverbs: The Words of the Wise

As is the case with the book of Psalms, Proverbs is a collective work; mostly credited to Solomon. He was said to have spoken or created three thousand proverbs and more than likely collected many more from the experience of the wisdom before his time. The Bible clearly endorses the usefulness of knowledge and wisdom, stressing the importance of education. However, that same education is not complete without the application of morality as imparted by the justice, wisdom, and authority of God.

The Opening Passage

There can be no mistake as to the reasons or intentions of this book, as these verses illustrate. It would benefit anyone to begin their study with a serious reflection of these seven verses... not only for Proverbs as a book, but also in acknowledging the Bible as the beneficial Word of God.

Proverbs 1:1-7 (NIV)
1 The proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israel:
2 for attaining wisdom and discipline; for understanding words of insight;
3 for acquiring a disciplined and prudent life, doing what is right and just and fair;
4 for giving prudence to the simple, knowledge and discretion to the young-
5 let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance-
6 for understanding proverbs and parables, the sayings and riddles of the wise.
7 The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline.

Proverbs is usually divided into three parts, four if you give place to the supplements; "The words of Agur" (ch. 30); and "The words of king Lemuel" (ch. 31).

The first section (ch. 1-9), which places a strong emphasis on the benefits of wisdom as being of the highest good. You find in the first chapter two strong warnings which stand the test of time...Warning Against Enticement (Prv. 1:8-19) and the Warning Against Rejecting Wisdom (Prv. 1:20-33). Both can be summed up in one phrase... "Pay Attention." When you watch the activity of the ungodly and seek the lessons from that which surrounds you, you will find that God is ever present and giving assistance to those who choose to accept it.

The second section (ch. 10-24), which contains the proverbs of Solomon. Known for his wisdom, Solomon expressed a great many useful sayings which to this day stand as instruction from the Lord for our continued benefit. Consider these selections in light of today's current events.

Proverbs 10:9 (NIV) The man of integrity walks securely, but he who takes crooked paths will be found out.

Proverbs 13:20 (NIV) He who walks with the wise grows wise, but a companion of fools suffers harm.

Proverbs 16:31 (NIV) Gray hair is a crown of splendor; it is attained by a righteous life.

Then the last section has an addition of more of the proverbs of Solomon "which the men of Hezekiah, the king of Judah, collected" (ch. 25-29). Among these we find more timeless wisdom, like these found referred to in the New Testament.

Proverbs 25:21-22 (NIV) If your enemy is hungry, give him food to eat; if he is thirsty, give him water to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head, and the LORD will reward you.
Proverbs 26:11 (NIV) As a dog returns to its vomit, so a fool repeats his folly.

The Book of Ecclesiastes

What is life, and what does it mean to live? All of us at some point ask ourselves this question. This book is the writer’s effort to provide an answer. Credited to Solomon, the title Ecclesiastes is an English transliteration of the Greek, ecclesia or gathering. The Hebrew word for the title is Qohelet which has a root meaning "to gather", although the word itself is best translated preacher or teacher. It is not sure if this is meant as the writers name or as his title, but the reference found in Eccl. 1:1, ties him to Solomon.

Unlike other books of the Bible, the tone of this work takes an approach from a secular view rather than spiritual. It centers on the pursuit to satisfy life from a worldly standpoint and points out the vanity of such effort. In modern day use this word, vanity, has often come to mean "self-pride," losing its Latin connotation of emptiness, some translators have abandoned it while others use empty, futile, meaningless, etc., for its meaning.

The narrative covers the experiences of life and the writers reflection of what it means. He considers wealth, power, indulgence, wisdom, and gives an account of how these impact life. The apparent understanding is that all is of no use. There is no benefit to any of it. There is nothing in the world which will produce for anyone; rich or poor, wise or foolish, that which from the world alone carries justification.

When one recalls an account of Solomon's life, it is clear why he not only gains insight but also is in a position to act as teacher in these truths. Solomon started in the counsel of God, was given wealth, wisdom, and power; but also instruction and warning on how to live. During his life he abandoned that instruction and chose not to head the warning; turning aside from God. His pursuit of forbidden woman and other gods proved to be his undoing. In the end His reflections are summed up in this word of advice... we should all take head and learn from his experience.

Ecclesiastes 12:13-14 (NIV) Now all has been heard; here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man. For God will bring every deed into judgment, including every hidden thing, whether it is good or evil.

The Song of Songs

The song moves from the time of courtship (1:1-3:5), to the consummation of marriage (3:6-5:1) and into the tested mature stages where life has brought storms as well as sunny days (5:2-8:14).

There are several opinions about the meaning of the book of the Song of Songs. It stands as a vivid piece of literature with suggestive language wrapped in the heat of romance. The ancient Jews would not include such writing in the sacred scriptures on the basis of just being well written poetry. It would be necessary for it to contained some spiritual teaching. The book is obviously a love song, but also imparts much greater lessons and spiritual themes.

Taken Literally as the Love between a Man and Wife

Solomon's song expresses love shared between himself and his young wife. A Shulammite woman (6:13) is the only identity of the dark (1:5) princess in the Song of Songs. Although her identity is unknown, there are suggestions to identify who she might have been. It's possible she was a resident of Shunem, a village in the tribe of Issachar, where Elisha stayed with a woman who’s son was brought back to life. (2 Kings 4:8-37) Another possibility is the shunemite woman Abishag, the attendant of David. (1 Kings 1:1-15) There is also Solomon's marriage to Pharaoh's daughter. (1 Kings 3:1) Nothing definitely gives her identity, but scripture suggest that she was his first wife since he later wrote in Ecclesiastes 9:9 Enjoy life with your wife, whom you love, all the days of this meaningless life that God has given you under the sun— all your meaningless days. For this is your lot in life and in your toilsome labor under the sun.

The Differences of Lust, Sex, and Love

Understanding the passion possible between a husband and his wife, we are given the view of sex within the marriage bond as one of God’s greatest gifts of pleasure. When it comes to the church many take the position that “sex is evil”, in reality there is a distortion between sexual lust and passionate love for one’s spouse. The feelings associated with that of lust being a state of inward desire, a wanting to take, or posses. Love, on the other hand is always open, is giving, and considers the feelings of the other person.

The song puts the focus on purity; the romance and affection between two people who are truly in love. Such passion could never exist in the sex of selfish lust. The lesson taught in the Song of Songs addresses the Agape and the Eros, the giving and the passion, with the proper application of both of these themes. (See Pope Benedict's encyclical Deus Caritas Est summary.)

The Allegory

In Christianity, the song also illustrates the relationship between Christ as the bridegroom and the church as the bride. Compare Ephesians 5:22-33; and Revelation 21:2, 22:17, to the verses found within the song. The revelations are depictions of the love felt by Christ for us as well as the love that we in the body of the church should also feel for Him. The reference in the title “Song of Songs” can be compared to that of Lord of Lords or King of Kings… all descriptions of Christ.

Song of Songs 7:10 (NIV) I belong to my lover, and his desire is for me.

This Week

The coming week takes us into the next segment of the Old Testament, "The Prophets." We will peak into the life and writings of Isaiah, the first of the Major prophets and the one referred to by Christ. The Book of Isaiah covers a period in the history of the kings where conquest is foreseen. It is also the beginning of the last section of the Jewish cannon which closes the Old Testament.

Keep reading and look for ways to make the scriptures a part of your daily activity. Once we move through the prophets the New Testament begins, not bad for a few weeks of summer. Continue your good work and your quest; we will finish in “90 Days”, stay encouraged… you are not alone.

Reminders

The Daily Readings are posted here… BibleGateway

The Alternate Reading plan for this week

July – Eighth Week:

Day 50 – Proverbs – 16 – 27
Day 51 – Proverbs – 28 –- Ecclesiastes - 12
Day 52 – Song Of Songs – 1 –- Isaiah - 10
Day 53 – Isaiah – 11 – 29
Day 54 – Isaiah – 30 – 44
Day 55 – Isaiah - 45 - 64
Day 56 – Isaiah - 65 -- Jeremiah - 11

Ecclesiastes 12:1 (NIV) Remember your Creator in the days of your youth, before the days of trouble come and the years approach when you will say,
"I find no pleasure in them"-
Blessings,
Matt.

The Bible in 90 Days (Week Six)

2009-07-17T13:22:00.006-05:00

Text Overview

This week we finished the last books, (Nehemiah, and Esther) in the section known as the "History of the Israelites." Nehemiah marks the third group to return to Jerusalem; about 444 B.C. This brings us to the next Major section of the Old Testament, poetry and wisdom, where we get a look into how God was worshiped and understood by the people of His choice. The weeks ahead will center on the heart of worship; the true dedication and devotion of those that love Our Lord. We look as well at the wisdom of those who develop a true relationship with God and just what it's like to be guided by His direction. These sections also adds insight to the mindset behind the people described in the history section. As`with each portion of scripture covered, there are great lessons and much enrichment to be found for application by all in daily life.

The Book of Nehemiah

When we open the book of Nehemiah, we find him in prayer, a fitting way to start any occasion. Nehemiah asks for forgiveness of the sin of his people as well as his own household. He makes an appeal for God to also remember His promise to Moses concerning the people of Israel. Having learned of the state of ruin of the city of Jerusalem, Nehemiah closes the prayer asking for favor and help with the king of Persia. He has already made the decision to approach the king with his concerns.

Armed with letters and an escort from the king, Nehemiah sets out for Jerusalem on a mission of restoration. The sadness felt by Nehemiah over the homeland of his nation can serve as a motivator for us in our society today. A look at the news reports or neighborhood papers would give anyone with a caring heart reasons to agree that actions for improvement are necessary even today. Nationalism takes it lead from Godly concern from the very beginning.

Soon after his arrival he set in motion a plan for the restoration of the wall. With great skill and determination the wall was completed in about six months.This was not without much opposition and real danger. Sanballat the Horonite, along with his associates ran a campaign which included armed resistance. Measures were taken for the safety of the workers. Guards were posted and all the men carried weapons as they went about their assigned functions. For thirteen years he remained as governor instructing the people and carrying out many reforms. Nehemiah returned to Persia for a few years only to return and find the people back to the old corrupt state of behavior; forgetting the vows made at the feast of the dedication. (See Neh. 12) He sternly applied himself toward correcting the abuses that had sprung up; and restoring public worship and the observance of the law of Moses.

Nehemiah 1:8-9 (NIV) "Remember the instruction you gave your servant Moses, saying, 'If you are unfaithful, I will scatter you among the nations, but if you return to me and obey my commands, then even if your exiled people are at the farthest horizon, I will gather them from there and bring them to the place I have chosen as a dwelling for my Name.'

The Book of Esther

The book of Esther tells the story of attempted genocide put to rest by a Jewish queen of Persia. It's set in the court of king Xerxes (Artaxerxes II), who marries Esther after banishing his former queen, Vashti, over an incident during a state banquet.

When Mordecai, Esther's cousin, hears of a plot on the Kings life; He tells Esther who informs her husband and the conspirators are executed. Later, Haman the Agagite, is promoted and given supreme authority over the kingdom. Because of his position all the people were to bow down to Haman, but Mordecai, a Jew, refused to bow to anyone but his God. Haman, now angry plans to kill all the Jews living throughout the empire. With a date set for this action, he gains the king's approval.

Mordecai, on hearing this news, urges Esther to intervene explaining that she too would be killed if she did not do what she could by talking to the King. Esther knowing that she could be put to death for going before the king, was terrified of this. She asks her people the Jews of Persia to fast for three days while she builds courage to enter the king's presence. When the king accepts her visit, Esther asks for a banquet with the king and Haman. After which, she requests another banquet with the King and Haman the following day.

With the date approaching Haman has a gallows built for hanging Mordecai. Meanwhile, the King was reminded that Mordecai had saved him from an assassination attempt, and no reward had been given. When Haman comes to the king for permission to hang Mordecai, the king asks him what should be done for the man the king wishes to honour? Thinking the king is speaking of him, Haman tells the king that the man should wear a royal robe and led on one of the king's horses through the streets to show the kings honour. The king agrees and then has Haman lead Mordecai in this way, honouring him. Afterwards, in grief, Haman tells his wife who predicts he will come to ruin. At the second banquet, Esther tells the king of Haman's plan to put all Jews to death and also reveals that she is Jewish. In a rage the king orders that Haman to be hanged on the same gallows he had built. Mordecai is then made a member of the kings court, and the Jews are given the right to defend themselves against their enemy's.

Psalm 46:1 (NIV) God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.

The story of Esther embodies love and trust in God as well as faith that he will deliver His people. It shows how Easter and Mordecai were used by God to combat the threat of genocide, as well as strengthen the Jewish position under foreign rule. It is also the last of the books containing the history of the people of Israel.

Wisdom, Poetry, Praise, and Worship

When it comes to the emotions and feelings that one holds for Our Father in Heaven, this section of the scriptures is a wealth of treasure. A sampling form several persons over different time periods. It gives us an idea of how God was understood, experienced, and dealt with. The lessons and illustrations all point to relationship, both for the people of that time and all of us now. With our efforts to better explain God and the way we regard Him, we can take comfort from those who have gone before us.

The Book of Job

Job is an attempt to answer the age old question concerning the lack of justice in the human experience. Throughout history it seems that the righteous suffer while the wicked prosper.

Does God care and if so why is pain a part of righteous life?

Job, in the words of God was blameless and upright, a servant like no other. His suffering came for reasons we have yet to find clear answers for. Belief in a merciful God presents a problem when viewed with the tragedy of Job's suffering. Even Job reasons that in fact, God's favor has nothing to do with our actions; the fate of man is beyond his control with decisions appearing to be free will. In reality they are predetermined and we cannot be held accountable for them. Job's answer to his own suffering is that he is the victim of fate, until Elihu, his younger friend finally has him reconsider.

The exchange between Job and his friends is in the form of debate. Each character presenting his understanding of Job's circumstances and the reasons for it. The differing views cover an approach to the question of suffering. From their standpoints, each effort takes a look from the limited knowledge of man. Then Questions are posed by God and man's understanding is brought into perspective; Job, as well as mankind, is shown that his range of knowledge is inadequate to explain the wisdom of God.

Tradition gives Moses credit for this book, but it takes place long before his birth. There is debate as to when the events took place or if Job was even a real person. No matter the position you accept, the story still addresses concerns that Moses faced with the people of Israel. Egypt and pharaoh enjoyed wealth and power while Israel suffered under their brutal hands. As a leader among the people, he sought answers to give them comfort. God's plan for our lives can be accepted even without clear understanding. It requires trust in Him and His love for us. Patients when we look toward God, and using even more in our conclusions about Him; helps us to recognize and accept our own human limitations. Even with all his wisdom Solomon could not uncover the answer. Our limited understanding does not mean that suffering is without reason or plan.

Job 2:9-10 (NIV) His wife said to him, "Are you still holding on to your integrity? Curse God and die!" He replied, "You are talking like a foolish woman. Shall we accept good from God, and not trouble?" In all this, Job did not sin in what he said.

The Book of Psalms

This work is a collection of poetry, most of which were originally set to music; the psalms are works of praise and worship. They written over a period of 1,000 years and by several different authors. Although there were several written and mentioned in scripture before his time; David is credited with writing most of them and also with the instituting of their use in the tabernacle service with music.

Traditionally there are five periods that a grouping of psalms or collections were believed to have been recorded; each period connected with a time of high religious life: the first, probably, near the close of David's life; the second in the days of Solomon; the third by the singers of Jehoshaphat (2 Chr. 20:19); the fourth by the men of Hezekiah (29, 30, 31); and the fifth in the days of Ezra."

This Week

The coming week will be taken up with a more in depth look at the Psalms, the different writers and the way they were used in worship. I also would like to offer an apology for the late posting of this discussion. I have been experiencing computer problems and have had some difficulty accessing my files and drafted work. My programs may have been affected by some sort of virus; a re-write was necessary. The enemy does get busy just as we make an effort to do so ourselves. In any event, the work as well as the Word continues to go forward... Our God is a good and powerful one.

As we move through the psalms and into the Proverbs we will be taking a closer look into the emotions and wisdom that has stayed with us from it's early formation. More in the way of lessons for study and reflection in our daily applications today. Keep reading and look for ways to incorporate these insights into your personal and ongoing walks of faith; and as I always say... continue your good work and your quest to finish in “90 Days” , and be encouraged… you are not alone.

Reminders

The Daily Readings are posted here… BibleGateway

The Alternate Reading plan for this week

July – Seventh Week:

Day 43 – Psalm – 37 – 58
Day 44 – Psalm – 59 – 77
Day 45 – Psalm – 78 – 95
Day 46 – Psalm – 96 – 112
Day 47 – Psalm – 113 – 131
Day 48 – Psalm - 132 -- Proverbs - 3
Day 49 – Proverbs - 4 - 15

Philippians 3:14 (NIV) I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.

Blessings,
Matt.

The Bible in 90 Days (Week Five)

2009-07-08T20:30:00.009-05:00

Text Overview
Over the course of our reading we have witnessed the behavior of Israel in relation to God’s Will and His instruction. Their actions can be summed up in a word; rebellious. Time and time again they have allowed sin to turn their attention away from God. As the writer of 2 Kings wrote…

2 Kings 17:14 (NIV) But they would not listen and were as stiff-necked as their fathers, who did not trust in the LORD their God.

The people of Israel were taken into exile by Assyria because of their sin in following the practices of the nations around them; just as God had foreseen and warned them not to do. After deporting the people left in Samaria, the king of Assyria resettled the towns with people from Babylon, Cuthah, Avva, Hamath, and Sepharvaim. They took over the land and also brought in the customs of their respective cultures; as well as their various gods.

The southern kingdom of Judah was not without blame, they also had made transgressions against the Lord. It was only because of God’s promise to David that it was allowed to remain. (See 2 Samuel 7) Due to their sins, God would also punish them. We pick up our reading with the accounts of the last kings in the southern kingdom, its eventual fall and exile into captivity.

The Last Kings of the Southern Kingdom

Hezekiah
He was the twelfth king of Judah and the son of Ahaz. In the sight of God he what was right following the ways of David. He placed his trust in the Lord to the extent that there has been no other king like him, either before his time or after. Under his reign the high places were removed, he cut down the Asherah poles and smashed the sacred stones. He even broke into pieces the bronze snake Moses had made because the Israelites had been burning incense to it. He held fast to the commands of the Lord and was successful in rebelling against the Assyrian king as well as the Philistines. When the new king of Assyria, Sennacherib attacked Judah and took the fortified cities; Hezekiah received word from God through the prophet Isaiah that the Lord Himself would defend and save Jerusalem… and He did. On his death bed God healed him and added fifteen years to his life; causing a shadow to go ten steps backward and down the stairs as a sign. Hezekiah also received the prophecy that Judah would be taken by Babylon.

Manasseh
He was the thirteenth king of Judah and the son of Hezekiah. Unlike his father, he followed the evil ways of the nations around him; rebuilding the high places his father had removed. He put up Asherah poles and built altars to Baal and also worshiped the starry hosts. There were altars in the temple of the Lord and he even sacrificed his own son in the fire. Manasseh led the people astray to the point that they did more evil than the nations the Lord had destroyed before them. He shed so much blood that he filled Jerusalem from end to end. The Lord was moved to anger so much so that he said through the prophets that he would bring them to disaster wiping them out as one wipes a dish.

Amon
He was the fourteenth king of Judah and the son of Manasseh. He too was evil in the eyes of the Lord following his father’s ways. After being on the throne for two years he was assassinated by his officials in the place. Then the people of the land killed all who had plotted against him and made his son king.

Josiah
He was the fifteenth king of Judah and the son of Amon. He followed the ways of David, doing what was right. He ordered repairs on the temple of the Lord during which time the Book of the Law was found. Because he was responsive to the Will of God and his heart was humble, God did not destroy his kingdom or bring Judah to ruin in his lifetime. Under his rule the people of Judah renewed the covenant of the Lord and pledged to follow its commands again. Like his great-grandfather, Hezekiah, he set his hand to destroying all the altars, high places, Asherah poles, sacred stones, household gods, and other things that were detestable to the Lord; throughout the kingdom, the surrounding area, as well as in Samaria. He smashed, burned, and ground to power these things and places; covering them with human bones to defile them. The priests of these high places were slaughtered and every other measure was taken to ensure the requirements of the law were followed. Josiah ordered the people to resume the celebration of the Passover which had not been observed since the days of the judges. He did all of this to atone for the sins of the Israelites, and bring them back into conformity to the requirements of the Book of the Law; however the anger of the Lord was not moved and Judah was still destined for disaster. When Neco, the Pharaoh of Egypt went to assist the Assyrian king, Josiah marched to meet him in battle. They faced at Megiddo where Josiah was killed.

JehoahazHe was the sixteenth king of Judah and the son of Josiah. In the eyes of the Lord he did evil and after only three months he was placed in chains by Pharaoh Neco and taken into captivity to Hamath and later died in Egypt. His brother, Eliakim was installed by Neco to replace him as king.

JehoiakimHe was the seventeenth king of Judah, Josiah’s son, and older brother of Jehoahaz; Neco the Pharaoh of Egypt changed his name from Eliakim when he made him king. He also did evil in the eyes of the Lord. When Nebuchadnezzar, king of Babylon invaded the land, Jehoiakim became his vassal. After three years he changed his mind and rebelled. The Babylonians along with Aramean, Moabite, and Ammonite raiders moved against Judah; having already taken the territory of Egypt from Pharaoh Neco. These events took place as the Lord had spoken through His prophets concerning the fate of Judah.

JehoiachinHe was the eighteenth king of Judah and the son of Jehoiakim. He was also evil following the ways of his father. Jerusalem was under siege by Babylon and when king Nebuchadnezzar came up to the city, Jehoiachin with all his officials, surrendered to him. In the eighth year of his reign, just as the Lord had declared, Jehoiacin was taken prisoner. Along with his mother, his wives, his officials, and the leading men of the land; king Jehoiachin was deported to Babylon. Nebuchadnezzar also took the entire fighting force of seven thousand men. He removed all the treasure from the temple and palace, all the craftsmen and artisans, everything of value. All of Jerusalem was taken into exile; only the poorest of the land were left. Mattaniah, Jehoiachin’s uncle was made king and Nebuchadnezzar changed his name to Zedekiah.

Zedekiah
He was the nineteenth king of Judah and the last of the Southern Kingdom. He too was evil in the sight of the Lord. In the ninth year of his reign, because of his rebellion against the king of Assyria, Nebuchadnezzar encamped outside Jerusalem and built siege works all around it. For two years he kept it under siege until famine inside the walls had the people starving. One night the wall was broken through and the whole army fled toward Arabah with the Babylonian army in pursuit. Zedekiah was captured at Jericho, his soldiers scattered. He was taken to the king of Babylon at Ribiah where his sons were killed in front of him and his eyes were put out. Placed in bronze shackles he was taken to Babylon. Afterwards Jerusalem was laid to waste and burned; the temple, palace, and every major building. The walls were broken down and all of those who had remained in and around the city were taken into exile. Only a hand full of poorest were left behind to work the vineyards and fields. Seraiah, the chief priest and Zephaniah, the next in line alond with the other top officials, officers, the secretary, and many scribes were taken to Ribiah in the land of Hamath where the king had them executed.

Gedaliah, the son of Ahikam, was appointed governor by Nebuchadnezzar to oversee the people left behind. News of his appointment reached army officers and others in the area that had fled Jerusalem. Ishmael, son of Nethaniah, a descendant of royal blood, went with ten co-conspirators and assassinated him at Mizpah along with the other officials that were there with him; both Jews and Babylonian. Out of fear of Babylonian retaliation, the people fled to Egypt.

The Southern Kingdom Was Also Lost

Our God is a jealous God, one that desires attention to Him and Him alone. This should in no way be a surprising thing. Consider your own desire in the relationships that you are or have been involved in. There were many opportunities over the course of generations and warning after warning. There is a point where enough is enough. That point for the Israelites was reached. There are times when one must be without a thing in order to understand and appreciate its benefit. Our passion like that of Israel is focused on the pleasures and indulgences of sin. Our nature makes it a burning desire to the degree that the focus on God and His righteousness looses its place. It is one thing to adopt a position without knowing the consequences, but quite another to enter into a situation with full knowledge. The law had been given, clear promises had been made, but Israel chose rejection of it all. As I said in an earlier discussion; rejection of God is sin… the consequence to be faced is rejection by God.

Notes on Chronicles

In their presentation the books of Chronicles present moral and religious truth. Prominence to politics as found in Samuel and Kings, gives way to emphasis on God’s Law and Commandments. The lists of family history, while boring to readers today, were really an important part of the public records of the Hebrew state. Establishing the basis on which land rights were held, how public services of the temple were to be conducted, as well as making determinations of the Levites and their descendants. They also kept record of royal blood lines. The history from the days of Adam down to the return from Babylonian exile, a period of about 3,500 years, was kept alive for the new generations that were to come out of captivity.
As compared with Samuel and Kings, the Book of Chronicles omits many particulars recorded, and includes many things peculiar to itself (1 Chr. 12; 22; 23-26; 27; 28; 29, etc.). Twenty whole chapters, and twenty-four parts of chapters, are occupied with matters not found elsewhere. It also records many things in greater detail, like the list of David's heroes (1 Chr. 12:1-37), the removal of the ark from Kirjath-Jearim to Mount Zion (1 Chr. 13; 15:2-24; 16:4-43; compare 2 Sam. 6), and also Uzziah's leprosy and its cause (2 Chr. 26:16-21; compare 2 Kings 15:5), etc.
It also substitutes modern and more common expressions for those that had then become obsolete; replacing modern names of places, such as were in use in the writer's day, for the old names. [Gezer (1 Chr. 20:4) is used instead of Gob (2 Sam. 21:18), etc.]

The Book of Ezra

After seventy years of captivity for the Southern Kingdom, Cyrus became king of Persia and his empire covered the known world. It was he, being thankful to the Lord for his success, who was used by God to fulfill the prophecies of Jeremiah concerning Judah. A decree was put in writing for the building of a temple to the Lord at Jerusalem. It allowed for the return of the people in exile. Under the leadership of Zerubbabel, a royal descendant of David, a group of over 42,000 including children were the first to return to Jerusalem.

Once settled, preparations were made for the rebuilding of the Altar of the Lord. With the help of Jeshua son of Jozadak the high priest, the altar was rebuilt on its original foundations. Then both morning and evening sacrifices as well as the Feast of Tabernacles were re-established. Later all the sacred feasts and sacrifices ware again celebrated.
Money was raised for the rebuilding of the temple, the House of God, and work was begun. When the foundation was laid, the people held a celebration. As word spread about the temple, opposition arose from Judah’s enemies. The campaign caused the work to stop when a letter was issued by king Artaxerxes of Persia. When eighteen years had passed, a new decree was issued by king Darius of Persia which gave clear authority for the continuation of the work with stiff consequences for anyone who interfered. Work on the temple was resumed and the temple was completed.

With the temple completed, the people enjoyed preaching from Haggai and Zechariah, the prophets. A celebration was held to dedicate the temple. Priest and Levites were installed for the service of God at Jerusalem, according to the Book of Moses. The Passover and the Feast of Unleavened Bread was also celebrated and re-established.
About a generation later, under the reign of Artaxerxes king of Persia; Ezra son of Seraiah, a direct descendant of Aaron brought the second group of returning exiles. He was given a letter granting him power and authority to take all the Israelites including priests and Levites who wish to go with him to Jerusalem. It also charged him to administer justice, appoint magistrates and judges, and teach the laws of the God of Israel to all the people throughout the Trans-Euphrates. (See Ezra 7) The last chapter tells of his addressing the issue of intermarriage among the people.

Reflection

Two things have remained with us from this period. First there is the question of those “Lost Tribes of Israel.” Samaria was not resettled by Israel. With the exception of a handful of descendants that aligned themselves with Judah; they remained scattered, or lost. So the Northern Kingdom of Israel that was led astray by king Jeroboam was removed from the sight of God. Those who returned to settle in Jerusalem were only a remnant of the former Israelites; a remnant of Jacob and a remnant of Jerusalem. Most belonged to the former Southern Kingdom or Judah. So the second thing to come from this period is the term Jew or Jewish, referring to those that now existing as Judah in Jerusalem.

2 Chronicles 36:20-21 (NIV) He carried into exile to Babylon the remnant, who escaped from the sword, and they became servants to him and his sons until the kingdom of Persia came to power. The land enjoyed its sabbath rests; all the time of its desolation it rested, until the seventy years were completed in fulfillment of the word of the LORD spoken by Jeremiah.

This Week

As we move ahead through Job and the Psalm’s, a deeper understand of Biblical Wisdom will be unfolded. This section of the Bible gives teaching to what was understood by God’s people of long ago, as well as what we should try an understand for our daily life now. Coping with the pressures of life is not easy. There are many challenges to face as well as the emotion that comes with it. Temptation will often bring with it confusion and finding answers is not always a simple thing. Be thankful that Our Heavenly Father has provided a guide to see us through the difficulties that we face.

Remember to press ahead, with a few more pages you will be half way through the Bible… let me say that again… half way. We have started in the wisdom books, a section that gives insight to the events that we just covered. There is new spiritual food and more in the way of lessons in store. Please continue your quest to finish in “90 Days” , and be encouraged… you are not alone.

Reminders
The Daily Readings are posted here… BibleGateway

The Alternate Reading plan for this week

July – Sixth Week:

Day 36 – Ezra – 3 –- Nehemiah - 6
Day 37 – Nehemiah – 7 –- Esther - 3
Day 38 – Esther – 4 –- Job - 10
Day 39 – Job – 11 – 24
Day 40 – Job – 25 – 37
Day 41 – Job - 38 –- Psalm - 17
Day 42 – Psalm - 18 – 36

2 Kings 19:31 (NIV) For out of Jerusalem will come a remnant, and out of Mount Zion a band of survivors. The zeal of the LORD Almighty will accomplish this.

Blessings,
Matt.

The Bible in 90 Days (Week Four)

2009-06-30T09:08:00.011-05:00

Text Overview

This week we continue with the kings of Israel as recorded in 1 Samuel through 2 Kings. The prophet Samuel, being directed by God, anoints Saul as the first king. However the kingship is new and the kingdom is not yet firmly established. The influences that he faces along with the temptations of the office prove to be Saul’s undoing. Chapter 28, of 1 Samuel opens with Saul consulting with a witch; hardly the type of behavior for a man of God. Now David, a young Shepard boy has been brought into the service of the king and so, through God’s grace has been given exposure to the inside workings of the position. In a very real sense it’s training on the job. Due to envy and jealousy a chain of events is set in motion which result in the kingdom being handed to David and through his reign the nation and the kingdom are firmly established.

Through King David, his son Solomon, and the kings that follow we get an inside look at behavior; in leadership as well throughout the rank and file and every aspect of those affected and or touched by it. There are several examples of both Godly character as well as the other kind, along with the results and consequences as viewed from a Godly standpoint. The illustrations and lessons make for sound guidance and advice in living in any time frame, especially today.

Establishing a Kingdom and a Nation… under God

The Heart of David… a Man After God, How?

We know from the last discussion that God was the true King; the King of kings. However, Israel wanted a king like the other nations. Our life today is not much different, we want to blend in, be accepted, and fit into the norm of our surroundings. Peer pressure, the same today as it was then, even when it’s the wrong thing to do. If you conceder the ranking as it descends from God’s throne, the king is next in line. This makes David the next in line… the man after God; His representative charged with the application of God’s Will. From his childhood, David loved God and sought His Will. His trust rested in the Lord for the direction of his kingship in governing the people of Israel; God’s chosen people. There is an old saying that sometimes you can’t see the forest for the trees. In other words we can become so close to a situation that we won’t see what we need to see. David, in building the kingdom neglected his application of God’s direction in his personal affairs. (See 2 Samuel 11) The desire for Bathsheba, Uriah’s wife clearly was against the decree of the Lord. However the genuine repentance of David’s heart and his devotion in taking care to inquire of God with his future dealings not only shows that he was a man after God’s own heart but also the measure of grace in God’s forgiveness.

Solomon, a Son of David loved by God. How were they different?

Where David’s task was to build the kingdom, Solomon’s reign made it great and brought glory to God’s sovereign majesty. At the bequest of his father David, Solomon was given wise instruction to follow in the ways of the Lord. (See 1 Kings 2) This advice he followed, turning to God for counsel, Solomon asked for help in a selfless manner acceptable and pleasing which not only was answered but brought unequaled greatness. (See 1 Kings 3) Under his rule, Israel as well as God was recognized as great in the eyes of the nations everywhere. His was a time of peace, unlike the time of his father David who lived as a warrior and conqueror. It was because of this distinction that Solomon was designated for the building of the temple for the Name of the Lord. (See 2 Samuel 7, 1 Kings 5) Solomon’s dedication of the temple gives an indication of just how much he exalted the Lord and also to the extent to which he was blessed. Israel and its people have not enjoyed such splendor and joy as a nation or a kingdom since his time.

The appearance of the Lord the second time (See 1 Kings 9) serves as a warning and a prediction of what lie ahead for the kingship and the kingdom of Israel; Solomon would be the last king to sit in a unified kingdom. His heart unlike his fathers did not remain with the Lord and his son did not follow him in his ways as he did his father King David.

The Kingdom Split

As God had said, the kingdom was removed from the hands of Solomon’s son Rehoboam. It seems that his desire was focused on the authority that his father had and not on the God of Israel who gave it. God allowed him to act on that desire without divine direction to bring about just what the Lord had said would happen. (See 1 Kings 9, 11:11-13, 31-39) How often have we gone with the advice of those that hangout with us instead of the sound advice we know is just. Rehoboam let his pride become his undoing. Jeroboam, even after being foretold of his future by God’s prophet, and the attempt on his life by Solomon still offered to support and follow Rehoboam if he would agree to be reasonable. However it was not to be and prophesy became reality. Israel divided, with ten tribes following Jeroboam and only Judah remaining loyal to David’s house and Rehoboam. (See 1 Kings 12:20-24)

From this point on all the problems associated with power, authority, ambition, corruption, rivalry, and immorality take their toll on the nations of Israel and Judah. There are many kings that take power and control, but not all handle the position in keeping with the directives laid out according to the rules given by Samuel, concerning kingship. Once again God’s wrath and temperament is driven to the test.

The Kings of the Divided Kingdom
JeroboamThe first king of the northern kingdom, (Israel) and was told by God through the prophet Ahijah that he would take power over most of the tribes. He put up golden calves in Bethel and Dan, encouraged their worship leading his people away from the Lord. Refused to head the warnings of the prophets sent to him even after seeing the signs and having his hand afflicted. He incurred the wrath of God on himself and his family.

RehoboamThe first king of the southern kingdom, (Judah) and he allowed his stubborn pride to divide the kingdom. He did not follow the ways of the Lord, and allowed the treasures of the temple to be taken by Shishak, king of Egypt. Under his rule Judah turned to worshiping other gods, setting up high places, sacred stones, and Asherah poles. There were also male shrine prostitutes in the land.

Abijah
He was the second king of Judah, and the son of Rehoboam. He followed his father’s ways, not following God and was also at war with Jeroboam as his father was.

AsaHe was the third king of Judah, and the son of Abijah. Unlike his father he was the first to follow the ways of the Lord. He got rid of the idols his father had made, and expelled the male shrine prostitutes. He even chose God over his grandmother, the queen mother when she made an Asherah pole. During the war between Baasha, king of Israel, he formed an alliance with Ben-Hadad, king of Aram. Throughout his life his heart was fully devoted to the Lord.

Nadab
He was the second king of Israel and the son of Jeroboam and also followed his sinful ways. Due to the sin of his father he was killed by Baasha son of Ahijah, and was succeeded by him as the third king.

Baasha
After carrying out his plot against Nadab, Baasha killed everyone in Jeroboam’s family as was spoken in the word of the Lord through Ahijah the prophet. He too did evil in the sight of the Lord and brought God’s wrath to his family as spoken through Jehu the prophet.

Elah
He was the forth king of Israel and the son of Baasha. He was killed by Zimri one of his officials who then took the throne as the fifth king.

ZimriAfter gaining power he killed all of Baasha’s family, just as the prophet had spoken. None of the males, relatives and friends alike was spared. Because of his acts against the king, the people of Israel rebelled against him. They proclaimed Omri king and laid siege to the town of Tizra and the royal palace. Zimri set the palace on fire and died; he was king seven days.

OmriHe was the sixth king of Israel and more evil than those before him. He was the founder of Samaria.

AhabHe was the seventh king of Israel and the son of Omri. He became a bigger sinner than his father and married Jezebel, daughter of Ethbaal, king of the Sidonians. He worshiped Baal and built a temple with his alter in Samaria, as well as an Asherah pole. Under his reign, Hiel of Bethel rebuilt Jericho at the cost of both his eldest and youngest sons; fulfilling the prophecy of Joshua. He was confronted by the prophet Elijah at Mt. Carmel with the prophets of Baal and condemned by the Lord through the prophet after the battle at Aphek with king Ben-Hadad. Later, Elijah pronounced the Lords judgment on him after the affair concerning Naboth’s murder. His death was also spoken of through the prophet Micaiah; he died of wounds received in battle with the king of Aram.

JehoshaphatHe was the forth king of Judah and the son of Asa; like his father he followed the ways of the Lord, and enjoyed peace with the king of Israel.

AhaziahHe was the eighth king of Israel and the son of Ahab; he too did evil in the sight of the Lord. After falling through the lattice of his upper room and injuring himself he sent messengers to consult Baal-Zebub the god of Ekron. For this the Lord sent word through Elijah that he would die without ever getting up from his bed.

Joram
He was the ninth king of Israel and also a son of Ahab. Although he did evil in the Lord’s eyes he did not follow the ways of his father, removing the sacred stones of Baal made by him. He did hold to the ways of Jeroboam. In the battle against king Hazael, at Ramoth Gilead, he was wounded and later killed by Jehu a commander in Israel’s army.

JehoramHe was the fifth king of Judah and the son of Jehoshaphat. He married a daughter of Ahab and followed in his evil ways. During his reign Edom rebelled against Judah and Libnah also revolted. Because of the sake of David, God allowed Judah to remain intact.

Ahaziah
He was the sixth king of Judah and the son of Jehoram. He too followed the evil ways of Ahab, being related by marriage. His reign lasted only one year where he was also killed at the command of Jehu along with Joram.

Jehu
He was the tenth king of Israel who came to power in a coup, ordained by God to fulfill what had been spoken through the prophets. Elisha sent a young prophet to anoint him king and commission him in the destruction of the house of Ahab. After dealing with both Joram and Ahaziah; he went on to see that Jezebel and every surviving member of Ahab’s family, relatives, servants, priests, and chief men were put to death. This was done to fulfill the word of the Lord as spoken through Elijah. In addition he also slaughtered forty-two relatives of Ahaziah, who had married into Ahab’s family, leaving no survivor in Israel. There were still members of his royal family; direct lines from David in Judah.

In a master plan set up as a great sacrifice and assembly, Jehu, also called together the entire assembly of priest and ministers of Baal and slaughtered them at once in their temple. He then destroyed the temple of Baal that Ahab had built. Jehu however did not follow the Lord entirely, keeping some of the ways of Jeroboam. God allowed his house to remain on the throne for four generations.

AthaliahShe was the mother of Ahaziah and daughter of Ahab. In order to seize power after learning her son was dead, she began to destroy the entire royal family. She became queen of Judah; however Joash a young son of Ahaziah was hidden away and saved from death. Johosheba, the daughter of king Jehoram, protected him. She was Ahaziah’s sister and the boy’s aunt who, together with his nurse placed them in the temple of the Lord under the care of Jehoiada the high priest. When Joash was seven years old, Jehoiada anointed and crowned him king of Judah. Athaliah was then executed.

Joash
He was the seventh king of Judah and the son of Ahaziah. Jeoiada was his teacher and mentor; as long as he was alive, Joash did what was right in the eyes of the Lord. He started work on the rebuilding of the temple. He was murdered by Jozabad and Jehozabad; two of his officials.

JehoahazHe was the eleventh king of Israel and son of Jehu. He continued to follow the ways of Jeroboam and do evil in the Lord’s eyes. Because of this God continued to allow Hazael king of Aram and Ben-Hadad to have power over Israel. Later he saught the Lord’s favor and God provided relief, even though they kept Asherah poles. During this time the army was reduced to nothing.

JehoashHe was the twelfth king of Israel and son of Jehoahaz. He too followed the evil ways of Jeroboam. He received a prophecy from Elisha before the prophet died concerning victory over Aram, but because he only struck the ground three times his victories were limited to that number. He also made war with Amaziah king of Judah.

AmaziahHe was the eighth king of Judah and the son of Joash following his example. He did what was right in the eyes of the Lord but not to the standard of David. The high places remained and the people continued to sacrifice there. He executed the officials that murdered his father but spared there sons as written in the book of the law. He captured Sela from the Edomites and named it Joktheel. In his arrogance he challenged king jehoash of Israel who tried to talk him down. Amaziah wouldn’t listen and was routed by Israel, his men fleeing. Jehoash captured him and then went and broke down the wall of Jerusalem taking the temple and palace treasures along with hostages back to Samaria. He survived king Jehoash by fifteen years but a conspiracy caused him to flee from Jerusalem to Lachish where he was caught up with and killed.

Jeroboam II
He was the thirteenth king of Israel and the son of Jehoash also following the ways of Jeroboam the first, doing evil in the eyes of the Lord. He restored the boundaries of Israel from Lebo-Hamath to the Sea of Arabah to fulfill God’s Word spoken through Jonah the prophet of Nineveh fame. God allowed him to be a savior of Israel because of their cries and suffering.

AzariahHe was the ninth king of Judah and son of Amaziah. He did what was right in the eyes of the Lord but also allowed the high places and the people’s sacrifices. Stricken with leprosy he lived outside the palace and his son Jotham took charge of it as well as the people of the land. (Also known as Uzziah)

ZechariahHe was the fourteenth king of Israel and the son of Jeroboam II. He did evil as his father had done and only reigned for six months. He was assassinated in front of the people by Shallum, son of Jabesh fulfilling the word spoken to Jehu.

ShallumAfter gaining the throne he became the fifteenth king of Israel for a total of one month. Menahem son of Gadi, attacked him in Samaria, killed him and succeeded him as king.

MenahemHe then became the sixteenth king of Israel following the ways of Jeroboam and doing evil. On his way up to Samaria from Tirzah to kill Shallum, he attacked Tiphsah because the city refused to open its gates. He sacked the people of the city and the surrounding vicinity ripping open all the pregnant woman. When Pul, king of Assyria invaded he extracted money from Israel to pay the king for support to help strengthen his hold on the kingdom.

Pekahiah
He was the seventeenth king of Israel and the son of Menahem doing evil in the ways of Jeroboam. He was assassinated along with Argob and Arieh, his guards in the royal palace at Samaria. Pekah, one of his chief officers took fifty men of Gilead with him in a conspiracy to gain the throne.

Pekah
He was the eighteenth king of Israel and the son of Remaliah. He also followed the ways of Jeroboam doing evil. During his reign Tiglath-Pilesar, King of Assyria took Ijon, Abel, Beth, maacah, Janoah, Kedesh, and Hazor. He also took Gilead and Galilee, including all the land of Naphtali and deported the people to Assyria. Hoshea the son of Elah plotted against him and assassinated him to become king.

JothamHe was tenth king of Judah and the son of Azaria (Uzziah). He followed in his father’s ways doing right in the sight of the Lord but still allowed people to worship in the high places. He rebuilt the upper gate of the temple of the Lord.

AhazHe was the eleventh king of Judah and the son of Jotham. Unlike David or his father he did evil, following the ways of the kings of Israel. He sacrificed his son in the fire and used the high places for worship. After making a successful stand to resist king Rezin of Aram and king Pekah of Israel, he formed an alliance with with Tiglath-Pileser, king of Assyria by giving him the silver and gold from the palace and the temple of the Lord. He had lost Elath in the siege on Jerusalem to king Rezin and Edomites had moved into the land. Assyria’s king then attacked Damascus, killed king Rezin and deported its residents to Kir. He also made defiant changes in the temple of the Lord including replacement of the altar.

Hoshea
He was the nineteenth king of Israel and the last. He was the son of Elah and had been a vassal of king Shalmaneser but was found to be a traitor. He did evil in the eyes of the Lord but not like the kings who preceded him. After learning that he had sent envoys to Egypt, the Assyrian king seized and imprisoned him; then he invaded the entire land and lay siege to Samaria for three years. In the ninth year of king Hoshea’s reign, Samaria was captured and the Israelites were deported to Assyria. Shalmaneser settled them Halah, in Gozan on the Habor River and in the towns of the Medes.

The Northern Kingdom Was Lost

A close look at the lives of these kings and the people they were responsible for, stands as a timeless lesson for all. I included this listing in its order with brief descriptions as a quick reference. This is an important part of history; not just for Israelites or Jews, but for all. In some way the world has been affected by the events that took place here; directly or indirectly. From a religious standpoint, the major world practices take their beginnings here. God wanted attention then and He’s still commanding it. His Word is true, His name is still there, and He is a lasting presence still.

An understanding of these events also sheds light on the present day occurrences in the Middle East as well as with world events. It gives insight to the cultures, their passions, and the reasons behind their feelings for their views. If we don’t know where we come from we will never see clearly which way to go… and how can we say for certain where we are.

We watched as God took one man and turned him into a nation. We also saw that nation transformed into a kingdom; a great kingdom that was given notice by the world. All of this greatness was given for Israel because of their God and His Will to do it. Where God should have been glorified… He was rejected. Where He should have been respected… He was ignored. Pride truly does come before the fall.

In spite of the rejection, opportunity was provided time and time again; through the law and the many reminders of it through the prophets and faithful kings. If you can’t extract God’s effort toward developing relationship then at least draw wisdom from the signs and historic examples that result from folly.

One thing is certain, truth never becomes a lie. The truth of righteous living is tested and proven in the rise and fall of Israel. God requires us to be righteous; Holy because He is Holy. We have only to look to Him to see the greatness that is possible when this is accepted. On the other hand, we can look at the list of kings for many examples of what to expect when the practice of righteousness is rejected. Learn from this piece of history and the accounts of the kings. They offer an important example of why we should choose to follow Our Lord. A reminder in the Words of Christ…

John 14:11 (NIV)
Believe me when I say that I am in the Father and the Father is in me; or at least believe on the evidence of the miracles themselves.

This Week

Give yourself a pat on the back, we are a third of the way… good job. This week takes a look at the fall of the southern kingdom, the exile and captivity, and the reentry into Jerusalem. The books of Chronicles go into details omitted from Samuel and the Kings but for the most part it will be a review. Just as the Bible itself reviews the incidents, I’m urging you all to study these accounts as they are keys in the central understanding of Biblical themes and teachings. It’s about attitude and behavior, about accepting God and His directions, and about living so that you can have a life to live.

Remember there is always something to be gained no matter what… and there is plenty on the horizon. Please continue your quest to finish in “90 Days”, and be encouraged… you are not alone.

Reminders

The Daily Readings are posted here… BibleGateway

The Alternate Reading plan for this week
June / July – Fifth Week:
Day 29 – 2 Kings – 6 – 17
Day 30 – 2 Kings – 18 –- 1 Chronicles - 2
Day 31 – 1 Chronicles – 3 – 11
Day 32 – 1 Chronicles – 12 – 25 (July 1st)
Day 33 – 1 Chronicles – 26 –- 2 Chronicles - 10
Day 34 – 2 Chronicles - 11 – 26
Day 35 – 2 Chronicles -- 27 – Ezra - 2

Revelation 1:19 (NIV)
"Write, therefore, what you have seen, what is now and what will take place later.

Blessings,
Matt.

The Bible in 90 Days (Week Three)

2009-06-21T00:01:00.009-05:00

Text Overview
This week we read from the end of Deuteronomy through Joshua, Judges, and into 1 Samuel. From the time the Israelites left

Egypt

until now they have been isolated in the desert, away from all the other nations. A whole new generation has grown up and rebellion due to a sinful nature has already started to show itself. If you add the time these people spent in captivity, one could easily see that a life of dependence and submission has been the norm for a long period of time. With rebellion eventually comes aggression. Conflict is an inevitable consequence that must be dealt with. Mankind needs to learn how to keep these emotions under control. In the outside nations war has developed into a normal routine. On the other hand, fear of aggression caused the bad report that made a 40 year sojourn the case for the children of

Israel

. God gives instruction as well as warning concerning war. (See Deut. 20) To prepare His people, God changes the focus of their training; a new kind of leader is introduced.

Israel

is given judges who have power along with authority to add to their leadership ability. These sections give illustration as to the up side and down side of human nature when man steps into this arena. They also lay the groundwork of events that lead up to the introduction of the king.

Taking Possession of the Land

The Question of War… Why?

When you take a close look at the surrounding nations you find a people that are not following the righteousness of God. Instead their practice is to do whatever they choose; their choice involves violence. Pharaoh, in reconsidering his choice concerning the slave force of Egypt, gathered his army to bring

Israel

back. Abraham, generations before the captivity in

Egypt

, engaged in war on behalf of his people and those he was in allegiance with. Like it or not the children of

Israel

were surrounded by cultures prone to selfish ways with no regard for human life or persons outside of their clans. Having been sheltered this new generation was ill equipped for the experience they would have to face. The other consideration is the fear; an emotion that can render you ineffective… paralyzed in a time where action is necessary. Crossing the

Jordan

to take possession of the land marks a new phase in the development of a nation being gathered unto God. The world may have been introduced to war as a result of sin, but through

Israel

, God has given us a method for dealing with war that is in line with His Will.

Courage, Aggression, Compassion, and Abuse; what do you apply and when?

Joshua, chosen by God to succeed Moses, is charged to be courageous by Moses in the view of all the people. (Deut. 31:7) Later he is again given instruction by God Himself. (Jos. 1) Courage has been defined by many in many a different way. Some think of it as being brave or showing the lack of fear. These are worldly definitions which fall short of providing insight as to how to develop courage in a Godly manner.

Simply put, courage is the ability to trust God at His Word even when your understanding gives you no reason to do so.

The command given Joshua gives God’s definition and explains why it is the best one to follow. The emphasis is on the instructions given in His laws and combining them with the trust that He is with you wherever you go. These are the command orders that establish courage. It allows belief in Him with faith; a familiar theme that you will find repeated over and over throughout the Bible.

Aggression is a tricky thing, something that requires control and temperament. Each act of aggression is undertaken with the direction and instruction of Our Father. At Jericho the first city across the

Jordan

, God establishes the pattern of procedure. The messenger of the Lord met Joshua and announced that He (God) was the commander of the army. (Jos. 5:13-15) Notice how when He was asked as to which side He was for, the reply was neither. Aggression has a tendency to take sides. This reduces the ability to lend compassion and increases abuse. The placement of God’s righteous authority at the forefront of aggressive acts insures the following of His Will. Remember to be holy for He is holy. Take a look at how aggression is tempered when the directions of the Lord are taken into account. (See Jos.22:10-34)

Corruption

A form of abuse that always seems to attach itself to authority is that of corruption or the abuse of that which you have been charged to do. Achan”s sin is one example of this early on but unfortunately it is not the only one. Joshua feared corruption and voiced his fear to the children of

Israel

. His address before the new generation carried strong warning as well as sound advice. As he pointed out, it boils down to that which is desirable in your own mind. (Jos. 24:15, 19-27) As he had warned this new generation that had not seen the wonders of the Lord, turned from His ways and practiced evil. Because

Israel

started to take their lead from the people and their practices which were around them, God brought forth judges from the people He had chosen.

Deborah, Gideon, and Sampson; how did they lead?

Deborah was a prophetess, leader, and judge according to the Will of God. It’s interesting that a woman is counted among the leaders of men when many are of the belief that this is not in accordance with God’s wishes. Scripture makes note of her firm position and has Barak refusing to follow her directions from the Lord, unless his own personal conditions are met. “If you go with me, I will go; but if you don’t go with me, I won’t go.” (Judges 4:8) Which of the two do you see as faithful?

Gideon had been given instructions and had seen right before him fire from the rock, the power of the Lord; you would think this would be enough. However he still held fear of his family and townsmen concerning directions for the altar made to Baal. Later, he insisted on proof after proof with the fleece to confirm God’s effectiveness before he could exercise his faith. (Judges 6) How often do we question God’s Will in the light of what we face in the world around us?

Sampson, the first to be a Nazirite set apart from birth for God, allowed his pride and arrogance to bring trouble upon him. In spite of his disobedience the Lord still used him to affect His plan. In the end God heard his prayer and allowed him the strength to commit suicide, taking all in the temple of Dagon with him. (Judges 16) If God assisted Sampson with suicide is the act itself a sin, or is it the conditions of the heart that make it a sin?

In each of the stories outlined many examples of courage, aggression, abuse, and corruption can be found; not only in the leaders but also in the ranks of the people. One very good example of courage, as defined above, is found in the story of Ruth. Look at her reply to Naomi as recorded in the accounts of these two women. (Ruth 1:16-17) Her courage and trust may have accounted for her reward in having a place in the linage of Christ.

Just as God had predicted and Moses and Joshua had warned; the children of

Israel

could not remain obedient. Before long we find God’s people turning their aggression on each other. (Judges 20) This plays out on a much larger scale as they pass from the time of judges and form a kingdom.

The First King

As the old saying goes, be careful what you ask for. Because of the influence from the surrounding nations,

Israel

cried out for a king. (1 Samuel 8) Although God regarded it as a slap in the face, He saw it coming from the beginning. Samuel was charged with making sure the people knew just what they were in for… volunteer slavery; still they insisted. Samuel at the Lord’s direction anointed Saul as the first king of Israel, but not without stiff stipulations. Kingship was not and is not to be taken lightly. Today just as then there is responsibility as well as consequences that go along with the office. It doesn’t matter if we call it President, Prim Minister, or whatever; our leaders must be careful to follow the just ways of righteousness put forth by God. In his Farewell speech Samuel makes it clear that rejecting God for an earthly king was not the best thing that they could have done. (1 Samuel 12) From the conditions laid out, the theme of blessings and curses is repeated with stronger implication. (Deut. 30:19) As we move forward, the reality of this prediction will become painfully clear.

Psalm 38:17-18 (NIV)

For I am about to fall, and my pain is ever with me. I confess my iniquity; I am troubled by my sin.

This Week

Brace yourself, this week goes further into the kings of

Israel

and more of the corruption that is tempted by power. Use your highlighters and mark sections for later review. There is a wealth of lessons in store. I do hope that your reading is opening your mind to new understanding. There are many reasons to study scripture and one does not have to be a Christian to do so. Those who are following along can still invite friends to join; better late than never. Others who are not reading can still give input in areas that are familiar. There is always something to be gained no matter what level you enter from. Please continue your quest to finish in “90 Days”, and be encouraged… you are not alone.

Reminders

The Daily Readings are posted here… BibleGateway

The Alternate Reading plan for this week

June – Fourth Week:

Day 22 – 1 Samuel – 2 – 15

Day 23 – 1 Samuel – 16 – 27

Day 24 – 1 Samuel – 28 –- 2 Samuel - 11

Day 25 – 2 Samuel – 12 – 22

Day 26 – 2 Samuel – 23 –- 1 Kings – 7

Day 27 – 1 Kings - 8 – 17

Day 28 – 1 Kings -18 – 2 Kings - 5

Ephesians 5:15-17 (NIV)

Be very careful, then, how you live – not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is.

Blessings,
Matt.

The Bible in 90 Days (Week Two)

2009-06-14T00:01:00.003-05:00

Text Overview
This week we covered Leviticus, Numbers, and most of Deuteronomy; up to chapter 23. The people of Israel are in the desert where they must remain and it is due to actions by their own hand. The cause rebellion, disobedience, and lack of faith, it seems not much has changed today. Like now they had been exposed to the world around them and all its influences; and we know that their world, like ours, was full of evil. There’s an old saying, you can lead a horse to water but you can’t make him drink. It’s not the best analogy but it fits. There is one condition which was in effect then that’s not in effect today; the absence of law. Moses was given God’s commandments here in the desert for a people who had grown up without it. Everyone did what ever the pleased and whatever they learned from others. No one had God’s righteous decrees to draw influence from. Just as a parent has to teach and discipline there child, Our Heavenly Father had to teach and discipline His children.

Rebellion

To restate it, as it’s presented here, it’s resistance in a very strong manner. No one had laws of any value other than what they themselves had made. When given God’s law - resistance showed its face big time. The Israelites resented being told what to do and probably viewed it as a personal attack on their choices; sounds familiar for some reason. Captivity and exposure to the Egyptian culture had taken its toll. I understand why they would resist; they simply didn’t understand this new directive. In their mind what they were used to was already a good thing, why change.

Just what was being corrected?

Well, their behavior for one thing, it needed correction for several reasons. First, it had nothing to do with God’s righteousness. Second, without correction the newborn children of Israel would be exposed to the same pattern of behavior; new standards must be put in place. There is also the introduction of responsibility and consequence. The concept of accountability had to be firmly established.
.
What was being taught?

When it comes to behavior, a solid understanding of what is acceptable in the sight of God must be learned. Look back on the actions of Adam, with Abraham and his dealings with his wife Sarah, Lots daughters, or any other recorded account of persons before the establishment of the law. Even when having favor with God there were still issues. If they had problems what do you think was going on with those who didn’t seek a walk with God? All of these lessons carry forward for us today. Remember the direction; teach them to you children. As Our Heavenly Father taught and established these laws for righteousness, we should make an effort to teach and establish them amongst ourselves with each other.

Disobedience

Once the law was set in place, God’s Will for the children of Israel to follow it was also made firm. This opened the door for an understanding of disobedience which there was much of, and still is. In the last discussion I said that the choice to disobey God is the essence of what sin is. Where there was no concrete rule for knowing, now there is. It no longer can be ascribed to ignorance. This places a tool in our hands; a gage for self evaluation against the standards set by the Lord of all. How we use this tool is what determines the condition of the heart in the spiritual sense. With all the signs and wonders given for them to see, they still made bad choices in defiance of the Will of God.

1 Samuel 15:22 (NIV) But Samuel replied: "Does the LORD delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obeying the voice of the LORD ? To obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed is better than the fat of rams.

Reward and Punishment, God’s Incentives for Righteousness

We now know that works will not reconcile us to God, they have nothing to do with salvation. They do however speak of the type of relationship we have with our creator. They also don’t go unnoticed. Our works, like the works of the Israelites, are a testimony to our relationship and obedience to God’s Will. They are the very thing that the nations in those times would notice as a sign of God’s glory and greatness. Today it would be the thing that helps attract the attention of non-believers, backsliders, and converts to the faith. God also pays notice and even rewards right behavior. (See Lev. 26) It was not due to any great or special thing that Israel was given favor; their obedience or lack of it was no more of less than any other group of people. What was done for them and through them, was God’s way of establishing His righteousness in a people and then in a world. (A review of Deut. 9 is in order.)

More Tools

In addition to the tool of the law and the lessons taught because of it; there are other tools and lessons which illustrate key points of direction for both the children of Israel and mankind in general. Take a look at these passages from this week’s reading and see if you can grasp the messages being unfolded. As you read them ask yourself what is being said and why? You can respond in the comments if you wish, but the important thing is to meditate and be clear in your own mind.

Deut. 13:1-5
Deut. 17:14-20
Deut. 18:9-16
Deut. 20:10-18

Faith (A basic foundation)

We all have it and have always had it… but… we don’t always use it… when we do we don’t always use it correctly. As a young man I put my faith in short cuts. I put my faith in the seeming success of the world. I spent my time looking for short cuts, wasting time, and trying to find what was right there with me. What was with me and is with all of us from the beginning. I’m glad I finally got it… a basic understanding of what faith is and how it works.

The time spent in the desert, the wandering, the training, the teaching, and the care that the Israelites received was all to establish a basic foundation in faith. Like them I tried to keep my faith… ON WHAT I COULD SEE.

In the end I had to put my FAITH and TRUST in GOD. Only then did I have confidence to believe. It gave me the HOPE for success, and the back up of the only ONE who always keeps His promise; The promise that He will never leave you or forsake you. The children of Israel had this big lesson given them by God Himself.

This Week

Remember to check the comment boxes for answers to your questions, and feedback on your comments. I noticed that some are using the Bible Study Page as well, it’s O.K. I check them all. As you read remember to take notes, and mark those things you wish to question or comment on. I will still open a forum to handle topics of interest more directly. I do hope that your reading will continue with new understanding for you as mine is for me. There is not a time that the reading of God’s Word does not lend itself to new revelation and there is always something to be gained. Please continue your quest to finish in “90 Days”, and be encouraged… you are not alone.

Reminders
The Daily Readings are posted here… BibleGateway

The Alternate Reading plan for this week

June – Third Week:
Day 15 – Numbers – 35 – Deuteronomy – 9
Day 16 -- Deuteronomy – 10 – 23
Day 17 -- Deuteronomy – 24 – Joshua -- 1
Day 18 - Joshua – 2 – 14
Day 19 - Joshua – 15 – Judges -- 1
Day 20 - Judges – 2 --12
Day 21 - Judges – 13 – 1 Samuel --1

Proverbs 22:6 (NIV) Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it.

Blessings,
Matt.

The Bible in 90 Days (Week One)

2009-06-07T00:01:00.006-05:00

Text Overview
This week we read from the beginning of creation all the way to the introduction of the Tent of Meeting; the “Tabernacle.” A lot of ground has been covered and not just the sand in the desert. Man has gone from being “Good” in the sight of God to something quite different… guilty. Why? Because of a thing called “Sin.” These sections give you a vivid picture into the nature of sin, and what happens when man is left to deal with it. Man looses and sin wins, we need help. There is also found a picture of what that help looks like; “The Sovereign Rule of God.” The story line gives us the details of what these two concepts involve.

Sin

Just what is sin?

Our confusion about sin has a lot to do with our continuance to be sinful. Mankind has difficulty putting a face on just what it is. We know that it goes against God. We know it is attached to disobedience. We know that it is immoral and has nothing to do with righteousness. The bottom line is that we know it is wrong. In the text it seems clear that we didn’t always know, or at least we didn’t always understand its implications. The beginning of Genesis looks at man and his state through the eyes of God. We see what God sees; the sin in us, as well as what’s happening to us because of it.

Where did it come from?

God is certainly aware and very familiar with sin, but given His position in relation to it, one would be hard pressed to think that it came from Him. We know that all things that were created were created by Him; so was sin created? Sin, rather than being created it seems to be a byproduct of creation. Now I’m not saying that it s a mistake… God doesn’t make mistakes. Think of a medication that’s useful with great benefits; necessary for quality of life. However one must be mindful of the side effects, they can cause harm if not managed properly. Sin is like a byproduct of righteousness, and obedience to God. Where God has the power to manage it… we don’t. His original plan was to keep us separated from sin by instructing us in righteousness. At the same time; in order to allow us the ability to generate sincere love and fellowship with Him (desire); God gave us the gift of free will. Management of free will requires obedience to God; it’s the nature of choice. Satan in his arrogant and vain hatred for God closed the gap of separation. Adam, the first man, joined Satan’s rebellion simply by choosing to disobey. Eating the fruit was not the sin…

THE CHOICE TO REJECT GOD’S DIRECTION IS SIN.

God answers to no one, and is self directing. Man, just like the angels have a choice; when you follow anything other than God you reject Him. When you do, you must answer for it and pay the price of your choice. Think for a minute of how you feel when people reject you.

How does it affect us and why do we have no control over it?

Man was given the ability for desire; it has to do with that likeness of God profile built in our makeup. Its part of the original package of mans God given ability. Somehow the fruit from the “Tree of Knowledge” affected our desire. Both God and Satan were aware of the affect; God decreeing its fruit forbidden and Satan all too ready to reverse that decree. Adam made a conscience choice to eat, and after eating the rest of mankind was corrupted; forever to suffer the affect. We inherit sin without a choice. It’s like a snowball and domino effect combined; it gets bigger and we keep falling harder and harder. The accounts given in the text show the increase of sin in the world. There was rapid spread throughout the whole of mankind. Even the early patriarchs that God chose to set His plan in motion had serious issues. Nobody seems to have the ability to escape the nature and affects of sin. Once the knowledge of evil was introduced man chose to embrace and except it. A choice that goes against God and His righteousness, but without any law or guidance; how could we know the downside. Man needed help.

His Will

To take a line from Abbot and Costello’s, comedy skit; “Who’s on first, and I don’t know on second”, we can get an idea of our relationship with God’s Will and direction. In terms of the Will of God; just who is on first and do we really know for sure? Remember the law has not yet been handed to Moses so man has no standard of which to compare. From Adam on to the introduction of Noah, each example mentioned gives an account of the contrast that takes place between the will of man and that of God. Everyone mentioned has his issues, no one is without fault. Everywhere man had become increasingly evil in his thoughts. However, although the thoughts are evil… can it be said that man is himself willfully evil. Yes there are those who seem to have turned away in earnest, having chosen to do so. Still others could be said to acting out of ignorance to a clear understanding of God’s Will. A select few, in spite of all of this, seem to seek the path of righteousness from a willing standpoint, (see Gen. 4). Even with them there are instances of waffling. Again there is no clear standard by which man can attempt to govern his action.

His Direction

Our direction takes a multitude of paths with the absence of a guide. In order to find a clear path back to righteousness we need Our Fathers direction. There is no one righteous especially in terms of God’s standard, other than God Himself. It’s a good thing for man that He began the process of providing that direction. Slowly with careful precision and His loving gentle nature, mankind was brought into the care of The Fathers instruction. To be sure man was tested, observed, and finally allowed to find favor with an Almighty God. The plan for a relationship with man was never abandoned, in spite of how far mankind had descended. The decision to love us was a firm one, and one He made on His own.

The Sovereign Rule of God

Every parent knows that along with love it will be necessary to also provide discipline to enhance whatever instruction is given. God starts His instruction for His people and eventually all mankind with the “Call of Abram.” At the outset the authority of rule is established with a simple instruction… to leave everything and go where I show you to go… in other words, everything in your life will come from me. No matter what Abram had, who he was, or what he believed… He had the foresight to take God at face value and obey. The groundwork is put in place concerning God’s authority in relation to man. A precedent is also set for who will have authority for establishing the laws of righteousness. From this point on the illustrations in this section center around the instruction and discipline necessary for man to enter into God’s favor and approval. Our God is a just God, but He prefers to have mankind come into an understanding of His just ways and accept His rule with willing conviction instead of a forced hand. Our ability to choose is left in place but we are given good reason to use it to our benefit.

This Week
Use this week to form questions, comments, feedback, or any other concerns you wish to input in this discussion. As you read remember to take notes, mark those things you wish to question or comment on. If enough interest in any one area is formed I will open a forum to handle it more directly. I do hope that your reading is giving you as much enjoyment and new understanding as mine is for me. There is not a time that the reading of God’s Word does not lend new revelation to the reader; there is always something to be gained. Please continue your quest to finish in “90 Days”, and be encouraged… you are not alone.

Reminders
The Daily Readings are posted here… BibleGateway

The Alternate Reading plan for this week

June – Second Week:

Day 8 – Exodus – 31 – Leviticus – 1

Day 9 -- Leviticus –- 2 – 13

Day 10 --------------- 14 – 23

Day 11 – Leviticus – 24 – Numbers – 4

Day 12 – Numbers – 5 – 14

Day 13 –-------------–15 – 25

Day 14 ----------------26 – 34

Ezra 7:10 (NIV)
For Ezra had devoted himself to the study and observance of the Law of the LORD, and to teaching its decrees and laws in Israel.
Blessings,
Matt.

LETS GET STARTED

2009-05-31T05:04:00.005-05:00

Trying to read the Bible in 90 days is not hard… however it’s not that easy either. Falling behind could bury you and cause you to quit. Staying on top of your reading is the key to having success. A good tip on how to do this is to stagger your reading over the spred of the day. A few pages in the morning, some in the middle of the day, and then again before bed. When you can read more... try to do so; it will help you in the times when your time gets tight. If anyone has any other suggestions they can add them here in the comments. Also new discussions on subjects that you want to probe in detail should be started there as well.

This column will post a general overview into the sections read each week; a kind of summery of the events taking place in scripture. It will point to themes taken from the text. The idea is to open up areas for more specific lines of discussion and questions for study. Now I won’t ask or answer every question… I can’t. That’s why we will work together; everyone is encouraged to pose questions of their own, as well as give answers and input where they can. This is a community project led by the Holy Spirit; I’m just providing the format to bring it about. I wish to draw from the knowledge, expertise, and experience of the readers to provide insight, and bring the scripture into everyday situations. Everyone is gifted in some area. With the help of the Spirit, those gifts can be brought to the surface and put to use.

Starting Monday, June 1st, BibleGateway will post the daily reading passages in their Reading Plans section. You can use whichever translation suits use best. The NIV is my standby, but that’s what I always use. I’m much more concerned with having you read along than with which translation you use. Using their site tool allows you to get any translation with just a click, and there is also easy passage look up as well. You can even take advantage of their mobile feature and carry the text with you… on the go.

There is also an alternate reading plan that can be followed which covers whole chapters per day; using this plan the sections for the first week are as follows…

June – First Week:
Day 1 – Genesis 1-13
Day 2 ------------ 14-25
Day 3 -------------26-35
Day 4 -------------36-45
Day 5 -------------46- Exodus – 8
Day 6 –Exodus –9-20
Day 7 -------------21-30
Well we are off on the greatest adventure that one could take… The Journey Begins.

Joshua 1:8 (NIV) Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful.
Blessings,
Matt.

"I CHALLENGE YOU"

2009-04-28T04:53:00.010-05:00

When I created my web pages they were started in part to encourage the reading of scripture. Bible study is something that I believe we all should be involved in. There are many who profess to be Christian and will agree that it is important to read the Bible. However there are a great many who have only read verse to verse or certain sections while missing others. In order to get the full picture and really understand how the whole story comes together, the entire work needs to be read. If I only studied addition, how could I understand math? Yet many after reading only a portion of God’s Word go on to dismiss it, or worst still, they form a complete opinion after only briefly glancing at a small section. There are many plans that assist in the undertaking of the task, those that lay it out over the course of a year or so; but many have tried these only to loose interest, or are pulled away from the time commitment. For all who have found the task to be a challenge this just might be the solution.

90 DAYS THAT COULD CHANGE YOUR LIFE

Starting June 1st and continuing through August, there is a standing challenge going out to everyone… everywhere.

THE BIBLE IN 90 DAYS

It has been done, not only by the creator of the challenge but others around the world. The fact is Ted Cooper Jr., a one time atheist and creator, found that his whole life changed after reading through the Bible in just 90 days. He even founded a ministry in order to help anyone complete the task. There are study guides, videos and other material which would aid individuals, groups, or whole congregational communities; available through the web site…

http://www.biblein90days.com/index.php

Even without the aids, the project is still a doable one. It requires twelve (12) pages a day but don’t focus on the amount of reading, instead think of the benefits. You can cover the whole Bible from cover to cover, and do it in 90 days. The reading could be all at once in the morning or evening or broken up and spread throughout the day. BibleGateway has even partnered in the challenge to make the reading passages available on line.

http://www.biblegateway.com/resources/readingplans/index.php/today?plan=6&version=31

It will be summer soon and that means vacation season. School will take a break and most will set their minds to relaxing and having fun. Now there is nothing wrong with these activities but they speak of commitment to personal interest. I challenge you all to take an interest in the one thing that brings the life to do these things. Take an interest in the Word of God.

THEY DID IT

AND LIVES WERE CHANGED

Even if you have read the Bible, a revisit wouldn't hurt. Just think of the person who has never done so; you could share the Word together and help them receive the message this summer for the first time. Join me in this reading, invite a friend and together we can unfold the truth of God's love. If you accept let me know in the comment box.

Blessings,

Matt.

The Celebration Of Easter

2009-04-06T13:07:00.006-05:00

Twice each year Christians celebrate dates associated with events in the life of Christ. The significance of these events remains a key foundation for Christianity. The birth of our savior would be made meaningless had not the second event occurred. It is the most important single event in all of history.

Three days mark for all mankind an unparallel turning point in universal order. The death and resurrection of Jesus changed the status of man and his relationship to God forever. Without this, Christ would be nothing more than another holy man. With it, we have a believable assurance toward the gift of salvation. All men can be drawn unto Him because He was lifted up. The price for sin has been paid, once and for all; death has lost its sting. No longer is it necessary to make sacrifice to atone for sin; Christ is our atonement. He has done what no mere man could ever do; being the unblemished sacrifice, perfect in every way.

To help understand the real essence of what took place, I am sharing these posts of early essays, written back when I first started my public writing. They still hold my feelings and have meaning for this Easter celebration.

The Gift (April 15, 2006)

John the Baptist was in prison, and probably knew that he was going to die. He had preached the news of Jesus, that he would come to set things right, The New King. This same Jesus didn't seem to have an army. Instead He hung out with the poor, the lepers, and other publicans. Having doubts he sent his disciples to get some answers. When asked about it Jesus gave simple instructions “Go and tell him what you have seen." We must all keep in mind that often times we won't receive what we expect. However; what we do get is a hundredfold better than what we need. Jesus came into the world at the Will of the Father. His very life was an act of LOVE, and a benefit for all mankind. The death and resurrection of Christ was necessary for forgiveness. Had judgment been rendered with the first coming, all mankind would have been lost. "For all have sinned", so who could have been saved. Jesus died so that we might live. The power of His Holy blood and it alone gives us the chance at redemption. It was not the power and might, that John the Baptist sought, but the humility, in the selfless act of sacrifice. This was the unexpected gift of LOVE that was, and is the most powerful gift of all. "Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends." (John 15:13)

As we attend service, Spend time with our families, or otherwise celebrate this Easter... I urge you to reflect on what a great and personal gift was given us by Jesus Christ, with this life changing event.

Reason (July 6, 2006)

Genesis 3:6-7 (NIV) When the woman saw that the fruit of the tree was good for food and pleasing to the eye, and also desirable for gaining wisdom, she took some and ate it. She also gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it. Then the eyes of both of them were opened, and they realized they were naked; so they sewed fig leaves together and made coverings for themselves.

Selfish... or selfless, it's a question of position. Which position a person takes is one thing, but which one they hold is another ball of wax. The word desire is introduced at the very start in the story of man. God imparted it as part of man's original package. In the beginning our desires were led by God. We followed His will and all our desire was good. The free will of man had the influence of God, who could only instill righteousness. As a result of this, man's will and the will of God, were one and the same. There was perfect fellowship. God's plan for our lives was always to give us and allow us the very best. In the beginning our choice was focused on His perfect will.

One of the tools of Satan, used in spiritual warfare is temptation. It is probably his most effective and most often used. We see above that it was the one used in the fall of man. Temptation was used to corrupt the will and desire of man. Satan only had to play with the desire that was already in place. Once the fruit had been eaten, the perfect influence of God was no longer the only voice that man would hear. The groundwork for ongoing temptation, or evil desire had been set. Satan, looking to rob us of our focus, found a way to corrupt God's plan. He added to our ability to choose. With his deception we had to contend with reason, long before we were ever ready to handle it. Every time we make a choice we try to attach reason to the choice we make. Even when it's a bad choice we want to justify it. Reason for us is really confusion. We need the wisdom of God, and the help of the Holy Spirit, in order to obtain righteousness. This is the key to salvation, to accept Christ as a savior. Without Him in our lives, to strengthen our commitment to His will... we fall back on our reason. Remember, most reasons are nothing but dressed up excuses. It's like this, when He comes what you will stand on... His righteousness... or your reason!!

Jesus knew the power of man's desire as well as what would result if we were left to the temptations of Satan. In His example of prayer, He teaches us to ask our Father in Heaven: "Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil..." Jesus knew that the evil temptations of Satan would come to influence our power of desire.

John 17:15 (NIV) My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one.

There are some very good reasons for staying in this world, for one there are others that must hear the message of Christ's salvation. Those who follow Christ and bring that message must learn to resist the evil one. This corrupt place is the best training ground for both Satan's tactics and following the direction of the Holy Spirit.

All is not lost, for God is still in control. Satan corrupted man, not God! We were redeemed and given the gift of salvation, if we only believe. To believe in Christ is to trust in his Word. After all, Jesus is the Word. When we study His word... and I do mean study, we learn to hear and recognize His voice again. As in any relationship, choice of involvement is key. You must want and desire to be there. If you make wanting a relationship with God... YOUR REASON... you have the best choice possible. This is what reconciliation to the fellowship of God through Christ Jesus is all about. Things can be restored as they were in the beginning.

John 3:16-19 (NIV) "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because he has not believed in the name of God's one and only Son. This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but men loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil.

It all comes down to your reasons behind the God given power of desire that you have. What will be your choice? God Himself is asking the question... think hard about your answer.

1 John 5:18 (NIV) We know that anyone born of God does not continue to sin; the one who was born of God keeps him safe, and the evil one cannot harm him.

1 John 5:19 (NIV) We know that we are children of God, and that the whole world is under the control of the evil one.

Deuteronomy 30:19 (NIV) This day I call heaven and earth as witnesses against you that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live.

I hope and pray each and every day that you all find "GOOD REASON" to choose life. It's in the Will of God.... found in His Word. Your place in eternity should be all the "REASON" that you need.

HAPPY EASTER!
Matt.

Political Authority

2009-03-26T07:03:00.002-05:00

When it comes to politics, there is a fine line that must be navigated. Most often it is overlooked if not disregarded altogether. Jesus said to "Give to Caesar what is Caesar's, and to God what is God's." (Caesar representing government, Matt. 22:21) Clearly the two are separate and at odds. In politics you will have political interest which won’t always be in the interest or will of God. Where man may have his own agenda it still won’t hinder the will of God. Politicians are servants, but not all serve God knowingly or willingly. Our Father is capable and can use even the wicked.

Proverbs 16:4 (NIV) The LORD works out everything for his own ends— even the wicked for a day of disaster.

Our involvement in the political system gives us an opportunity to further the will of God through a vote wrapped in morality and His truth. It provides training and practice in righteousness. In our attention to government, we give diligence in watching for Satan’s attempt at further corruption and installment of his system. Just as the law was given to teach us what sin was, corruption is allowed so we can understand what it looks like. As new situations and things come into being, the face of sinful things and sinful people is harder to recognize.

2 Corinthians 11:14-15 (NIV) And no wonder, for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light. It is not surprising, then, if his servants masquerade as servants of righteousness. Their end will be what their actions deserve.

Christ came into the world to destroy the works of Satan. (1 John 3:8) Christians being followers of Christ work to do the same, not with evil but with what is right and good. The directions given by Paul still stand as the best advice for bringing an end to the acts of the wicked.

Romans 12:21 (NIV) Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

By standing on the side of what is good you obey the will of God and those who come to stand on the side of good along with you further glorify God. Everyone who remains in the darkness of evil is seen for what they are. What Satan intended for evil is made good through the Spirit of Righteousness. We serve an all powerful God and His power has already defeated the devil; we need only to resist him and he will flee.

For more on the subject of Authority go to:

http://mattmilamii.multiply.com/journal/item/1/January_15_2009_---_HIS_AUTHORITY

Blessings,
Matt.

Water For The Children

2009-03-06T16:29:00.007-06:00

Click for info - About the Tap Project

Posted using ShareThis

Matthew 10:42 (NIV) And if anyone gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones because he is my disciple, I tell you the truth, he will certainly not lose his reward."

A simple thing like water, we don’t really think about it. I can remember before it was in a bottle and every store that you walk into. I’m even old enough to remember getting our water from a well and a pump. Even back then when it didn’t come out of the tap it still wasn’t a problem. Not everybody can make the same statement.

Water is a problem in a lot of places around the world. Some places don’t have any while other places have plenty but just can’t drink it. The fact is, bad water is the second biggest killer of children in the world; most under the age of five. We live where we can bath and shower at will, let alone drink to our fill. While we have it good thousands die every day from water related issues.

March 22-28 is World Water Week and people all across America will be working to try and make a difference. Here in Chicago we will kick off World Water Week, at the Chicago Tap Project Water Walk. I’ll be in it, arthritic bones and all. For me it’s an easy way to help a worthy cause and love my neighbor at the same time. I urge each and every reader of this message to consider getting involved with this effort. Participation exists at every level and ranges from simply having a meal in your local restaurant; to actively organizing. A small gesture can go such a long way and will save lives. Please take the time to click the link above and see what effort you can lend. Think of the children… and think real hard.

Mark 9:36-37 (NIV) He took a little child and had him stand among them. Taking him in his arms, he said to them, "Whoever welcomes one of these little children in my name welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me does not welcome me but the one who sent me."

You can really be a big help by supporting me and my team...
Now I know the event is over "BUT" supporting the effort is ongoing!!!
To find out more click this link.

"Support Matt."

Blessings,
Matt.

Thank You... "The power of Acceptance"

2009-02-28T11:48:00.008-06:00

The following is a thank you letter written to a friend for an act of kindness. He befriended a homeless person and posted a blog about it. That act and posting reminded me of a point in my life that gives an example of "The Power of Acceptance."

God's acceptance of man while still a sinner has given us the ability to not only change our own life, but also the lives of others. Accepting Christ and following His example in accepting others can do more than we ever think possible.

Homelessness

Dear Dave,
There are three things that top the list in my Ministry; Poverty, Crime, and Homelessness. One could say that in a big way they are one and the same. I am personally connected to these areas from the conditions of my life. I grew up in poverty, spent time in jail, and for years lived on the street as a homeless man. Your post, “Rose Colored Glasses”, is a timely one and I thank you for being vocal in this area of concern. As you point out, the community of homeless people is a diverse one with members that hit the full range and spectrum in makeup. Our society is mixed in its view as well as its method of addressing possible remedies. Sometimes the actions can be quite horrifying. See my article: Society Today. I have been there and can tell you first hand that the biggest thing that anyone ever did that made a real difference for me, was to acknowledge me as a human being. Of the people on the street, most have stopped viewing themselves with any dignity. We have created a class system, an US and THEM attitude. This has helped to destroy the self-esteem of these that exist as outcasts of the mainstream. The few handouts of money and food are only a Band-Aid solution, and then... only exist for the brief moment that they are given. Real solutions are needed for this real problem. There are good programs out there but they are too few in number, and greatly overwhelmed. A good start is found in the step that you have taken; to take a real concerned look, without the rose colored glasses. If anyone wishes to take that look there are vivid glimpses in my playlist --
"The Real Homeless People", on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/mattmilamii
The problem did not come about overnight and will take an effort from all of us. I for one am more than just willing.

As I said before, the thing that made the most difference to me when I was on the street was being treated as a human being. Acceptance is the single most lacking thing in most of the lives of the homeless. After a time it works away at your sense of self worth, leaving you to feel rejected and useless. Validation as a person is a big hand up. If anyone really would help them, it would be in finding ways to instill a new sense of self worth. This one thing is what creates new character or at least helps to find the character that is there hidden away. Far better than money with the ability to give life back, not just a meal.

It was in a conversation over a meal with a stranger that my life was changed. That man took the time to make me feel accepted. As I bathed in feelings of kindness, God took hold of my emotions and gave me a reason to live. That one single encounter marked a chain of events that has taken me from being homeless in the streets. It has brought me to the service of Our Father as a Minister of His Gospel, and the journey is just beginning.

1 Thessalonians 5:11 (NIV) Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.

Your act of kind acceptance follows this directive to the letter. It sets up a pattern that I find universal in truth. You see when I was shown kind acceptance I was given back my value. With the feeling of value came my sense of worth. God showed me the reason and purpose for that worth and just how much value it was.
Our life is found and given value in the death of Christ.
Continue to follow your heart...for it is guided by the spirit. For more eye opening information I have posted an article on Homelessness at my Matt’s Ministry Site, use this link - "Homelessness."

Thank You Again…
Blessings,
Matt.

Questioning Scripture

2009-02-21T08:30:00.006-06:00

This was a statement in responce to the post "Lessons From Christ." Where it is not a direct question, it does question scripture and the Word of God. It not only requiers an answer but some thought as well... think about it.

Implied Question:

Q...

Re: Lessons from Christ
Jesus grew in wisdom etc>>
No, He dint. He is/was/will be/remains GOD. In becoming flesh, He dint "get stupid" and need to smarten up and remember that He created the Cosmos.

A...

In all of my writing, my studies, and my essays; I look to, and rely on, the word of God. This study was no different; it came directly from the scriptures itself. The Word speaks for itself; they are not my own words, but rather the inspired Word of God. These words come straight from scripture. I must at least think that they were written to stress a point.

Luke 2:52 (NIV) And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men.

When the scriptures say these words, I must use them as the foundation and start of any opinion that I hold to. I also ask that any response or comment made, be supported by scripture. We call ourselves believers and followers of Christ. How then can we discount His Word and take the lead instead of allowing Christ to lead us? Here are some more words from scripture which also stress an important point.

Acts 4:18-20 (NIV) Then they called them in again and commanded them not to speak or teach at all in the name of Jesus. But Peter and John replied, "Judge for yourselves whether it is right in God's sight to obey you rather than God. For we cannot help speaking about what we have seen and heard."

Luke, for all accounts was very careful in his investigation of the life of Jesus. He spent time interviewing and speaking to those who had seen and heard with their own eyes, the events surrounding the life of our LORD. Again I ask you, are you a believer and follower of Christ? Do you trust the Word of God to be true? Where is your scripture to support your statements? Are you suggesting that we should take your word over the Word of God?
As believers, we are instructed to lean not on our own understanding. Our faith comes by hearing. That which we hear, must be the Word of God. This is why study of the Word is of the utmost importance.

2 Timothy 2:15 (NIV) Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.
2 Timothy 3:16 (NIV) All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness,

From these passages, the importance of God's Word as our foundation and guide can be easily concluded as the standard that we must follow. We start with the Word, not being ashamed of it, not trying to renounce it, and certainly not from a standpoint of not accepting it. Instead we must rightly divide it. That is to make every effort to understand it.... as it is written. Then we use that understanding to not only strengthen ourselves, but also for the strengthening of others.

Romans 1:16 (NIV) I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes: first for the Jew, then for the Gentile.

For us in the Body of Christ, we hold to our belief in the Word, our faith, or we remain ignorant. If it is ignorance that still holds our attention, then I close with this reminder.... again from scripture itself.

Acts 3:17-26 (NIV) "Now, brothers, I know that you acted in ignorance, as did your leaders. But this is how God fulfilled what he had foretold through all the prophets, saying that his Christ would suffer. Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord, and that he may send the Christ, who has been appointed for you—even Jesus. He must remain in heaven until the time comes for God to restore everything, as he promised long ago through his holy prophets. For Moses said, 'The Lord your God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among your own people; you must listen to everything he tells you. Anyone who does not listen to him will be completely cut off from among his people.' "Indeed, all the prophets from Samuel on, as many as have spoken, have foretold these days. And you are heirs of the prophets and of the covenant God made with your fathers. He said to Abraham, 'Through your offspring all peoples on earth will be blessed.' When God raised up his servant, he sent him first to you to bless you by turning each of you from your wicked ways."

It is my hope and prayer that you are truly a believer, and that it is not your intention to cause dissension in the Body of Christ. Try to think of the harm that might be caused to those who are not as strong in the faith, when you challenge the Word without backing your position with clear, sound scripture that supports your statements. We must refrain from anything that is not wholesome and edifying for our brothers and sisters in Christ.

Until next time.... Your brother in Christ,
Matt.

Who's Church

2009-02-16T14:52:00.004-06:00

A non believer questioned the existence of God. He made it clear that at times he felt that he should be more open to the idea; that it was possible that he might be wrong in his position. He said that with help from the Church, he might have better understanding and more to go on. He then asked a question that I find difficult to supply an answer for. It seems that any answer that I give fails to provide the answer that he seeks. His question was simply “WHO’S CHURCH.” Now I know that there is only one Church, the body of Christ; which I tried to explain. We were still stuck on these points which I must say gave me reason for pause. If only one Church, then why so many different Church groups? There is the Catholics, Lutherans, Baptist, Orthodox, etc., and the list goes on. What makes them different and who is right. If they are all right then why not form one group? For this person the message from the Church was a confusing one. So for him it remained at “Who’s Church.”

Ephesians 4:3-6 (NIV) Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to one hope when you were called— one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.

As a Minister one of my goals is to evangelize the non believer. At some point everyone in the body has this as an undertaking. Do we as a Church body make that task more difficult by causing confusion outside the body? Is it that the many divisional Church groups affect the credibility of the Church as a whole? Again the question; who’s Church, does it matter, and why? Paul spoke on this very subject; have we moved so far from the advice given us? Even inside a denominational groups there seems to be rivalry and competition. Many of those who hold leadership in the Church today have worked hard to develop a following. When you look at the congregation of some of the mega Churches, you can get an idea of just how much labor went into that effort. I believe that many are sincere and have produced good fruit for God’s kingdom. On the other hand, I also see a flaw in their methods which should be re-assessed.

1 Corinthians 1:11-13 (NIV) My brothers, some from Chloe's household have informed me that there are quarrels among you. What I mean is this: One of you says, "I follow Paul"; another, "I follow Apollos"; another, "I follow Cephas"; still another, "I follow Christ." Is Christ divided? Was Paul crucified for you? Were you baptized into the name of Paul?

A Good many of clergy have made their seats the final stop on the road to salvation. They site the number of their following as a benchmark of their effectiveness. Paul was warning of the danger of this view. At best, it is a Minister’s role to give direction as to where Christ might be found; for the individual must find Him (Christ) for himself. Ministry should function as a sign, pointing in the direction. When the journey stops in the congregation seat; Christ is not found or followed. Matthew 7:14 should ring clear… “few there be that find it.” Personal relationship requires a meeting; to meet Christ is an event that must be a personal and individual experience. None of us can walk the road of salvation unless we follow Christ and Christ alone. The position of any Church group or any Church member, clergy included should only be to assist in the effort to find Christ.

Matt.

Question From Tikno

2009-02-10T13:38:00.005-06:00

Q...

If "one" why we must different?
A question sent to me by Tikno, from the discussion in BlogCatalog (click title for link)

A...

Let’s look at your thoughts and question through Biblical reference. I hope to provide enough for you to receive clear understanding.

God has always existed before everything. It was through Him that the universe, the creation, came into existence. God is the origin of all things… directly or indirectly.

John 1:1-3 (NIV) In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made.
Revelation 22:13 (NIV) I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End.

Religion is an invention of man, a tradition that resulted from God’s creation of man. Not directly placed by God, but allowed by him. It is man that has fractured it, placed individual definitions, and caused separations among men.

Micah 6:16 (NIV) You have observed the statutes of Omri and all the practices of Ahab's house, and you have followed their traditions. Therefore I will give you over to ruin and your people to derision; you will bear the scorn of the nations.
Matthew 15:3 (NIV) Jesus replied, "And why do you break the command of God for the sake of your tradition?
Mark 7:13 (NIV) Thus you nullify the word of God by your tradition that you have handed down. And you do many things like that."
Colossians 2:8 (NIV) See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the basic principles of this world rather than on Christ.

Our problems, the problems of mankind, are the direct result of man himself. We as a group are proud, arrogant, and self centered. It’s the result of our sinful nature.

Deuteronomy 31:16 (NIV) And the LORD said to Moses: "You are going to rest with your fathers, and these people will soon prostitute themselves to the foreign gods of the land they are entering. They will forsake me and break the covenant I made with them.
Nehemiah 9:29 (NIV) "You warned them to return to your law, but they became arrogant and disobeyed your commands. They sinned against your ordinances, by which a man will live if he obeys them. Stubbornly they turned their backs on you, became stiff-necked and refused to listen.

Our world, the Earth, our soul, and every other part of our being are owned by God. However the control of our soul is a matter of our choice. Just as a stock company is owned by shareholders and controlled by a board of directors. With individual choice comes individualism, and differences. What happens to our soul depends on our choice and how we relate to God’s will.

Job 41:11 (NIV) Who has a claim against me that I must pay? Everything under heaven belongs to me.
Ezekiel 18:4 (NIV) For every living soul belongs to me, the father as well as the son—both alike belong to me. The soul who sins is the one who will die.
Matthew 6:24 (NIV) "No one can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and Money.
Romans 1:28 (NIV) Furthermore, since they did not think it worthwhile to retain the knowledge of God, he gave them over to a depraved mind, to do what ought not to be done.

Lennon’s song was only right in part. Our imaginations and our dreams are good things; progress in the world is due to them. But to come together as one requires a power beyond man’s ability, we need the power of God. Without Him our lives exist in chaos; each man defining his own righteousness.

Matthew 19:26 (NIV) Jesus looked at them and said, "With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible."
2 Timothy 3:-5 (NIV) But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days. People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good, treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God— having a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with them.

To accept God or not is a personal choice. As a Christian Minister my choice is to accept. To function as a Minister I offer information concerning the good news. It’s information that has to be willingly received, if I am to follow the direction of Christ. My task is not to browbeat, not to force, and certainly not to ridicule others to follow me. If God gives freedom of choice who am I to do otherwise. Everyone must understand that it is their choice. But it is a choice that comes at a price, there is no free lunch. Whether you believe or not changes nothing in the fact that God is. I can’t change your decision no more than I can change the outcome of it. God is personal and your choice concerning Him is also personal… between you, the individual and Him, your God.

Isaiah 45:23 (NIV) By myself I have sworn, my mouth has uttered in all integrity a word that will not be revoked: Before me every knee will bow; by me every tongue will swear.
Revelation 3:15-17 (NIV) I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other! So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth. You say, 'I am rich; I have acquired wealth and do not need a thing.' But you do not realize that you are wretched, pitiful, poor, blind and naked.
Revelation 22:10-14 (NIV) Then he told me, "Do not seal up the words of the prophecy of this book, because the time is near. Let him who does wrong continue to do wrong; let him who is vile continue to be vile; let him who does right continue to do right; and let him who is holy continue to be holy." "Behold, I am coming soon! My reward is with me, and I will give to everyone according to what he has done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End. "Blessed are those who wash their robes, that they may have the right to the tree of life and may go through the gates into the city.

Just as the unseen quark is a fact of physics, God who is also unseen, is a fact of each and every beings existence; you can believe it or not. What you believe will weigh in on the price you must pay. Our existence started with God and it will surely end with Him.

Psalm 84:10 (NIV) Better is one day in your courts than a thousand elsewhere; I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than dwell in the tents of the wicked.
Romans 14:5 (NIV) One man considers one day more sacred than another; another man considers every day alike. Each one should be fully convinced in his own mind.

I pray that this has helped to bring some clarity to your understanding and that you will continue to seek answers to the question of God.

Blessings,
Matt.

The Truth Of Jesus

2009-02-07T06:53:00.011-06:00

John 8:32 (New International Version)
Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.

To know the truth you must know Jesus. Only then can He set you free. We spend so much time defining the truth, searching for what it is, and how we can know for sure. It's easy to loose focus on Christ by not connecting Him with the truth. When we place our focus on Christ, our effort on the relationship that we make with Him; we also build our understanding of what the truth really is. To know Christ is to know the freedom of the truth that comes with Him. This world, this sinful world with all of it's pleasures and lusts... is a lie. A trap that keeps us from the truth. With every desire to possess the offerings of this world, we are confronted with the price that the world must be paid. It becomes an ever increasing bill that consumes us. We find ourselves lost in the sea of material pursuit, for increasing gain. What we see as a gain is only our loss. In the end we loose not only the material, but also our place in the eternal kingdom.

Mark 8:36 (New International Version)
What good is it for a man to gain the whole world, yet forfeit his soul?

Knowing Christ through relationship, gives us the ability to understand this world for what it is. We know the truth simply because we know Christ. We are set free by the price he paid for all of us. That is the truth of salvation; a gift of which the world has no comparisons.

Blessings,

Matt.

Society Today

2009-02-02T19:45:00.006-06:00

Homeless Killing --- Watch this news clip. This news story from CNN paints a vivid picture of what our society has become.

Having lived for years as a homeless man, it doesn’t shock me. Oh it disturbs me deeply but no it has no shocking effect. I have been that person that people move away from. I was the one that nobody wants to be bothered with. The person that they might catch something from or they wish just wasn’t there around them. After all, they are productive members of society, working to improve their life. I should have been doing the same, not allowing myself to be on the street. Something must have been wrong with me.

This man was beaten and left to die on a busy street in front of a crowd. Many saw what happened and saw him in distress; yet nobody bothered. As one person put it, “it happens all the time.” Now there may be something wrong with those who are homeless, but does that give reason to remove them being counted as human. If it does then something is very wrong with the average productive member of everyday society. Something is certainly wrong in the way we’ve let this occurrence become common place among us.

Jesus was challenged by a person skilled in the law. He, the challenger, thought he could justify himself with what seemed a trick question. Today’s society like this challenger of Jesus tries to justify these acts of indifference with words that remove them from responsibility. They say; “it’s O.K, everybody does it, or it happens all the time.” Like all responsibility, when not faced there is a price to pay; consequences for our actions or inaction. The man asked Jesus the requirements for salvation. He knew he was to love God and love his neighbor, but his trick question was in asking just who his neighbor was. Thinking to himself that Jesus was going to make distinctions or set limits on who could be included as a neighbor. Our society is showing itself to be doing the same exact thing. We have gone backward to repeat what history should have already pointed out as a gross error. Our neighbors are not limited to the narrow few that we surround ourselves with in polite settings. We have no basis for making distinctions to include or exclude members of our society. The world being our home makes the people in it… our neighbors. This would include the homeless, the man in the news being one of them. The parable Jesus told about the “Good Samaritan” has many similarities to the news video from CNN. Just as there were consequences behind the story, there are consequences today in our lack of action.

Luke 10:36-37 (NIV) "Which of these three do you think was a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of robbers?" The expert in the law replied, "The one who had mercy on him." Jesus told him, "Go and do likewise."

If we are to obtain salvation, our place in eternal life; then society, and all of us as members of it; must learn to follow the directions of Christ… “Go and Do Likewise.”

With the Blessing of God,
Matt.

The Relationship Of Grace

2009-01-28T14:56:00.004-06:00

Exodus 33:19 (NIV)
And the LORD said, "I will cause all my goodness to pass in front of you, and I will proclaim my name, the LORD, in your presence. I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion.

Here we find the elements of God’s grace… Goodness, Mercy, and Compassion; all in the name of the LORD because His Will, wishes it to be.

Another way of looking at "His Grace" is to see it as a part of “His Will”, as it concerns us. It’s the part of it that is unconditional. His Grace carries no strings. There is nothing demanded or commanded of us for it. We don’t have to promise to do anything, and there is no passing of judgment associated. When you look around, there is quite a bit of free stuff that God has provided for everyone. None of it is denied based on our actions, good or bad. That in itself shows how "His Grace" is at work to help us all.

Isaiah 45:18 (NIV) For this is what the LORD says—
he who created the heavens,
he is God;
he who fashioned and made the earth,
he founded it;
he did not create it to be empty,
but formed it to be inhabited—
he says:
"I am the LORD, and there is no other.

This Earth and all the material within it, was fashioned for the people who would inhabit it… That’s us. His action is extended because of His will for relationship, with us. His Grace forms the foundation of the relationship that God would intend to share. By design, we are instilled with favor in order that we might display the wondrous glory of our creator. It’s His way of giving us the incentive to turn towards “His Righteousness”; an act of choice that hallmarks His greatness. An act of which, on our part, also makes certain the bond of that relationship; formed between ourselves and God. By choosing Him, we acknowledge that Greatness, and we display for others; That Glory.

Blessings,
Matt.

Lessons From Christ

2009-01-22T11:41:00.006-06:00

Luke 2:52 (NIV)
And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men.

Jesus spent His time among us teaching. He placed much of His effort in trying to expand our understanding of what really should matter in our lives, as far as how we regard our Father in Heaven; as well as each other. As a follower of Christ, what was emphasize by Him, must be looked at with serious attention. This being said, I start this study with this example from Jesus….

Christ was fully God, perfect in all areas of existence. God became man, existing as a man in every aspect. As a man it was necessary for Jesus to develop, into a man from a child. This passage in Luke gives insight into just what is necessary for complete development. This was a living example set by Jesus for all of mankind. It speaks to the type of instruction that should be given a child, and also gives us adults a guideline for self-analysis. From this guide we can determine what is lacking and how to make changes for improvement.

Jesus Grew….
Not only is it necessary to develop physically in all areas, but also to make efforts to grow continually as well.
Wisdom….
This places focus on intelligence, development of the mind and its abilities for mental strength.
Stature….
In addition to the mind, the body or physical being must be maintained. Healthy living was an issue back then as it is now.
Favor….
In order to receive favor one must do what is favorable in the sight of the one whose favor is wanted. When that one is God, it becomes a question of the spirit. How closely you can get your spirit to follow the Holy Spirit, will determine the measure of obedience you have to God's righteousness.
With God and Men….
We were created to be involved in relationship, first with God, and then with each other. In the very beginning, it was God who said that man should not be alone. It has always been our position to exist as a social being. The difficulty lies in finding a peaceable path that will include both God and man. Remember the instruction from Christ; 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.' (you find it... hint: see Matthew) Finding a balance is not an easy thing, but that does not release us from the obligation to make the effort.

In terms of today's world, most everyone holds some kind of understanding of the necessity of the mind and body. The focus is toward the promotion of education and health, and spans throughout every nation and culture. It might be said that in some ways it has grown at the expense of the other areas on this list. In order for man to be complete, all of these areas of life must be recognized and addressed. The neglect and inattention to the spiritual being, is still persistent today. The confusion that hindered the development of social harmony, back then, is still a problem area. In the social area of relationship, we still need the umbrella of clarity.

The teachings given us by Christ Jesus are of great value. His best teaching is in the life that He lived... giving the example and pattern for us to follow. That life was presented to the apostles, who in turn formed and taught the early Church. All of the inspiring lessons that deal with faith, character, belief, or Spirituality, are touched on in this brief description, concerning Jesus' development. It's a great lesson... "A LESSON FROM CHRIST."

Blessings,
Matt.

"TODAY"

2009-01-21T04:10:00.008-06:00

Hebrews 3:13 (New International Version)
But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called Today, so that none of you may be hardened by sin's deceitfulness.

When I read this passage, I must take a moment to consider the word Today. Even now as I type, spell check wants me to use lower case. Why did the writer put so much emphasis on the today word? It was so strongly stressed that the translators used capitals to bring home the urgent need. Digging deeper I find that urgent, the implied imperative associated with the word today; has as synonyms the terms, vital, necessary, and very important. Now that’s a great deal of stress for one word alone. So I ask again, why?

When you think about it, Today is really the only time that any of us has under our control. Yesterday is history, it can’t be undone. Tomorrow is the future, yet to be achieved. That leaves us with today and today alone. The enemy, Satan is a mastermind of deceitfulness. One who paints great illusions for us to believe, and we want to believe it. We want to take credit and say it’s our own creation. It’s easy to fall into the trap of complacency, delaying our action until some future point in time. A point we assume we can arrive upon. Remember Satan is a thief, in this case playing con man to rob us of opportunity.

Everyday we encounter many that would benefit from a simple act. That is, the act of kindness known as encouragement. Those who just might cling to some form of hope, with nothing more than a simple good word. Instead we look inward, not noticing, not caring, not thinking of the others, or maybe saying… it’s not my problem. Have we developed into a class structure, an “us against them” society? Indeed we have. Like the passage says, hardened by sin’s deceitfulness. Satan has traded today’s opportunity for borrowed time. It’s time that neither he nor anybody else can really deliver. You see, time is only in God’s hands, He alone has the control. I say again, Satan is a thief, he has no time to trade… it’s a con. Legally, it’s theft by deception.

There are a few things that are for certain, one being this. God knows Satan, and Satan knows God. We, on the other hand, don’t know much of nothing. God is ever making an effort to guide us and keep us safe, because we don’t know better; while Satan is ever fooling us. That’s why we have “The Book”, and are instructed to meditate on it day and night. We may not know better, but we can learn. By the way, it seems that this day and night thing sounds familiar. I remember now, it forms a day. That’s a day from God. It’s a gift of time, an opportunity. So while we have this day, so long as it’s called “Today”, let us all encourage one another.

Psalm 118:24 (New International Version)
This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.

Your Blessed To Be A Blessing,
Matt.

Q&A --- Bible Study

2009-01-19T16:10:00.017-06:00

Got a question about a passage of scripture?

Want something explained, examined,... or just plain need help?

This forum is just for you.

Submit your questions in the comment box. Together we will find the answers.

Luke 11:9-10 (NIV)

"So I say to you: Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened.

Helping each other is what fellowship is all about... sharing !