Jeremiah
Well, Jeremiah ends on a somewhat happy note. Jehoichin is released and lives on a pension. It looks like the Jews may receive God's blessings once again, so long as they obey him!
1 Peter
Again Peter talks about suffering. I was wondering about this emphasis, but then remembered that he was writing to people who were being persecuted. This is actually an encouragement to them. It pays to investigate the historical context of the bible, so that we can know why it says what it does.
Sunday, October 31, 2010
Saturday, October 30, 2010
Song of Solomon
The Song of Solomon is a perfect example of why we need to read the bible from the point of view of the author before we can begin to find a meaning for ourselves today. Most of the imagery used in these poems make no sense if we look at the text from a 21st century point of view. However, if we put on our history caps, we'll find out that this song gives high praise to the beloved, and to the lover!
For example, when the Lover talks about the Beloved's teeth as being like sheep just shorn, or of her hair like a flock of goats descending the mountain, he is complimenting her. How? Well, back in those days, livestock was often one's livelihood. The sight of your sheep or goats, healthy and strong, grazing on the mountains, was a beautiful thing. You would be well off with that flock. In the same way, the Beloved's hair was actually quite beautiful; it was one (or should have been one) of her prized possessions because it was so beautiful.
For example, when the Lover talks about the Beloved's teeth as being like sheep just shorn, or of her hair like a flock of goats descending the mountain, he is complimenting her. How? Well, back in those days, livestock was often one's livelihood. The sight of your sheep or goats, healthy and strong, grazing on the mountains, was a beautiful thing. You would be well off with that flock. In the same way, the Beloved's hair was actually quite beautiful; it was one (or should have been one) of her prized possessions because it was so beautiful.
Friday, October 29, 2010
Commendable to suffer
1 Peter
It is commendable to suffer for doing good. In fact, Peter goes so far as to say that this is what we were called to (2:21)! That's a tough one. You really have to focus on God's love in order to endure suffering. By thinking less of yourself and what you're going through, and thinking more about how God loves all of us, and suffered even for those people who are making your life miserable, you can hopefully endure it a little easier.
It is commendable to suffer for doing good. In fact, Peter goes so far as to say that this is what we were called to (2:21)! That's a tough one. You really have to focus on God's love in order to endure suffering. By thinking less of yourself and what you're going through, and thinking more about how God loves all of us, and suffered even for those people who are making your life miserable, you can hopefully endure it a little easier.
Thursday, October 28, 2010
This Weekend
Once again, I will be busy this weekend, going away on a trip. I will still try and post short messages, and be doing the readings, so don't fall behind!
Diligent Study of the Scriptures
John
Jesus warns against exclusive study of the Scriptures. Even though it is important to regularly read God's word, it is just as important to apply what you read. The word of God is living and active; it has the ability, through the Holy Spirit, to speak to you today and to change your life. We can't make this bible reading turn into head knowledge only. Life application is just as important. I admit, sometimes it seems a little tough to find out how to apply certain passages of Scripture, like some of Jeremiah. I'm still figuring that out. If you're struggling in that regard as well, one book that would be helpful is, you guessed it!, Taking the Guesswork out of Applying the Bible by Jack Kuhatschek.
Jesus warns against exclusive study of the Scriptures. Even though it is important to regularly read God's word, it is just as important to apply what you read. The word of God is living and active; it has the ability, through the Holy Spirit, to speak to you today and to change your life. We can't make this bible reading turn into head knowledge only. Life application is just as important. I admit, sometimes it seems a little tough to find out how to apply certain passages of Scripture, like some of Jeremiah. I'm still figuring that out. If you're struggling in that regard as well, one book that would be helpful is, you guessed it!, Taking the Guesswork out of Applying the Bible by Jack Kuhatschek.
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
predestination?
Jeremiah
Johanan is quite the guy! As I was reading, I thought he would be a good guy, since he rescued the people from Ishmael, and then he goes and totally ignores Jeremiah's message from God! He and his followers were in such a position to be blessed by God, but threw that away by running to Egypt.
1 Peter
Peter seems to have a bent toward pre-destination. For example, 2:8 says that 'They stumble because they disobey the message - which is also what they were destined for.' And from a few days ago, 1:2 says '...who have been chosen according to the foreknowledge of God the Father...'
Thoughts on pre-destination, anyone? Do you agree or disagree?
Johanan is quite the guy! As I was reading, I thought he would be a good guy, since he rescued the people from Ishmael, and then he goes and totally ignores Jeremiah's message from God! He and his followers were in such a position to be blessed by God, but threw that away by running to Egypt.
1 Peter
Peter seems to have a bent toward pre-destination. For example, 2:8 says that 'They stumble because they disobey the message - which is also what they were destined for.' And from a few days ago, 1:2 says '...who have been chosen according to the foreknowledge of God the Father...'
Thoughts on pre-destination, anyone? Do you agree or disagree?
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
What precious blood
1 Peter 1 is packed with such inspirational verses! I'm sure the rest of the chapters will follow suit. After all, Peter wrote to the scattered Christians in what is now modern Turkey, encouraging them to continue on in their faith in spite of persecution.
Two verses that I would like to emphasize here is 1 Pet 1:18-19: For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed from the empty way of life handed down to you from your forefathers, but with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect.
These verses drive home the fact that our faith is so important, so precious, just like the blood of Christ. He died to save us. He didn't just fork over some extra cash to cover our sins. He gave his life! This is a good reminder to take our faith more seriously; to live a life that exemplifies the price that was paid for it.
Two verses that I would like to emphasize here is 1 Pet 1:18-19: For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed from the empty way of life handed down to you from your forefathers, but with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect.
These verses drive home the fact that our faith is so important, so precious, just like the blood of Christ. He died to save us. He didn't just fork over some extra cash to cover our sins. He gave his life! This is a good reminder to take our faith more seriously; to live a life that exemplifies the price that was paid for it.
Monday, October 25, 2010
God's love for thousands
Hefty reading today! I must admit, I edited the reading plan slightly, so today's reading in Jeremiah is 32-36, then 37-39, 40-43, 44-46, 47-49, and then we're back on track.
Depending on the way you read Jeremiah 32:18, you might think, well, that's not right that God punishes the children for the sins of the father; God doesn't seem so nice. But, if you take another look at the verse, you can see that, indeed, God is love. Sure, he may punish two generations for sins, but he will extend his love to thousands! His love goes further than his discipline, although his discipline, as unpleasant as it is, shows his love as well.
Depending on the way you read Jeremiah 32:18, you might think, well, that's not right that God punishes the children for the sins of the father; God doesn't seem so nice. But, if you take another look at the verse, you can see that, indeed, God is love. Sure, he may punish two generations for sins, but he will extend his love to thousands! His love goes further than his discipline, although his discipline, as unpleasant as it is, shows his love as well.
Sunday, October 24, 2010
Plans for prospering
I missed this yesterday in Jeremiah 29, but that key verse that most people quote on God having plans for his people, to prosper them, came at a time when he was sending them into exile in Babylon for 70 years! Thanks for the plans of prospering... however, they could rest in God's promise that indeed he would prosper them, and would be with them in their exile as well. So if you're in exile or suffering today, God does have plans to prosper and not harm you, just be patient and wait!
Saturday, October 23, 2010
Patience is a virtue
Key verse
Ecclesiastes 8:12 - Although a wicked man commits a hundred crimes and still lives a long time, I know that it will go better with God-fearing men, who are reverent before God.
James
Patience - that is one thing that I find is hard to come by. Once I decide on something, I want to go and do it right away, perhaps even if I'm not ready yet. Fortunately, I've got people around me who keep me down to earth, most of the time! It's a good reminder to know that "the Judge is standing at the door". I realize that statement was directed to those who grumble, which I do on occasion as well, but I think it can apply to any situation. After all, God is omnipresent, everywhere all the time. Life application? Be more patient today!
John
Historical lesson:
Apparently, the Samaritans had built a temple on Mount Gerizim, which (this is getting a bit ahead of the reading) the Samaritan woman said was the mountain on which they must worship, although the Jews say they have to worship in Jerusalem at the temple there. The Samaritans accepted only the Pentateuch as the scriptures, and their version commanded worship on Mount Gerizim. Here is part of the contention between Jews and Samaritans.
Jeremiah
Poor Uriah... He prophesied the truth just like Jeremiah, and yet he died and Jeremiah lived because of his connections at the temple.
There certainly isn't much lasting satisfaction in being a false prophet. Hananiah died within a year of his false claims.
Ecclesiastes 8:12 - Although a wicked man commits a hundred crimes and still lives a long time, I know that it will go better with God-fearing men, who are reverent before God.
James
Patience - that is one thing that I find is hard to come by. Once I decide on something, I want to go and do it right away, perhaps even if I'm not ready yet. Fortunately, I've got people around me who keep me down to earth, most of the time! It's a good reminder to know that "the Judge is standing at the door". I realize that statement was directed to those who grumble, which I do on occasion as well, but I think it can apply to any situation. After all, God is omnipresent, everywhere all the time. Life application? Be more patient today!
John
Historical lesson:
Apparently, the Samaritans had built a temple on Mount Gerizim, which (this is getting a bit ahead of the reading) the Samaritan woman said was the mountain on which they must worship, although the Jews say they have to worship in Jerusalem at the temple there. The Samaritans accepted only the Pentateuch as the scriptures, and their version commanded worship on Mount Gerizim. Here is part of the contention between Jews and Samaritans.
Jeremiah
Poor Uriah... He prophesied the truth just like Jeremiah, and yet he died and Jeremiah lived because of his connections at the temple.
There certainly isn't much lasting satisfaction in being a false prophet. Hananiah died within a year of his false claims.
Friday, October 22, 2010
The fiftieth post!
50th Post!!! Congrats for tracking with me so far! Let's hope it can only get better from here.
Key verses
Key verses
Jeremiah 23:23-24 - “Am I only a God nearby,” declares the Lord, “and not a God far away? Can anyone hide in secret places so that I cannot see him?” declares the Lord. “Do not I fill heaven and earth?” declares the Lord.
Jeremiah
Beware the false prophets!
Ecclesiastes
7:28 really stuck out to me because apparently Solomon couldn't find one upright women among any. I think this may stem from the fact that he married all foreign women who would not have followed his religion or believed in the one true God. This makes sense because he had 300 wives and 700 concubines, thereby equaling 1000.
I read this from the Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary and thought it was an interesting take, although a little bit of a stretch: one man-that is, worthy of the name, "man," "upright"; not more than one
in a thousand of my courtiers (Job 33:23; Ps 12:1). Jesus Christ alone
of men fully realizes the perfect ideal of "man." "Chiefest among ten
thousand" (So 5:10). No perfect "woman" has ever existed, not even the
Virgin Mary. Solomon, in the word "thousand," alludes to his three
hundred wives and seven hundred concubines. Among these it was not
likely that he should find the fidelity which one true wife pays to one
husband.
James
If you were thinking of hoarding wealth, James 5:1-6 should make you think again! Don't store up your treasures where moth and rust can destroy, or thieves can break in and steal.
Thursday, October 21, 2010
Lord willing
Key verse
John 3:16 - 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.
James
Where's the connection between saying that you will do something, Lord willing, and knowing the good you ought to do and not doing it? In 4:17, James writes "Anyone, then [suggesting a connection between what he previously said], who knows the good he ought to do and doesn't do it, sins."
Here's something from Barnes' notes:
The particular meaning then would be, "that he who knows what sort of views he should take in regard to the future, and how he should form his plans in view of the uncertainty of life, and still does not do it, but goes on recklessly, forming his plans beastingly and confident of success, is guilty of sin against God." Still, the proposition will admit of a more general application. It is universally true that if a man knows what is right, and does not do it, he is guilty of sin. http://bible.cc/james/4-17.htm
John 3:16 - 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.
James
Where's the connection between saying that you will do something, Lord willing, and knowing the good you ought to do and not doing it? In 4:17, James writes "Anyone, then [suggesting a connection between what he previously said], who knows the good he ought to do and doesn't do it, sins."
Here's something from Barnes' notes:
The particular meaning then would be, "that he who knows what sort of views he should take in regard to the future, and how he should form his plans in view of the uncertainty of life, and still does not do it, but goes on recklessly, forming his plans beastingly and confident of success, is guilty of sin against God." Still, the proposition will admit of a more general application. It is universally true that if a man knows what is right, and does not do it, he is guilty of sin. http://bible.cc/james/4-17.htm
Today will be a good day
Ecclesiastes
7:10 - Don't dwell in the past! Instead of thinking how great it was and how terrible it is now, take a few minutes and think of how today can be great. Ask God to bless what you do, and to be in every interaction with others. It's wise not to ask why the past was so great, or we'll just end up not living fully today. Let's make today a good day!
7:10 - Don't dwell in the past! Instead of thinking how great it was and how terrible it is now, take a few minutes and think of how today can be great. Ask God to bless what you do, and to be in every interaction with others. It's wise not to ask why the past was so great, or we'll just end up not living fully today. Let's make today a good day!
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
The Potter's House
Key verse
John 3:8 - The wind blows wherever it please. You hear its sound but you cannot tell where it comes from or where it is going. So it is with everyone born of the Spirit.
Jeremiah
Thoughts on chapter 18, about God as a potter.
God's unchanging nature does not mean that he cannot change his plans. His love for all mankind means that he will change his plans for us if we act in accordance to his will. If we go outside his will, then he will guide us back or we will suffer the consequences. Now those who believe in such doctrines as predestination and fate may see this as God's plan never changes, but what he says he will do and what he ends up doing were all a part of the final scheme anyway. Regardless, we know that if we ask forgiveness, God will grant it to us.
James
According to a footnote in my Bible, the priests had to wash their hands and feet before approaching God in the tabernacle. James exclamation "wash your hands, you sinners" therefore makes sense, as we should cleanse ourselves, and make our hearts right with God as we come to him.
Ecclesiastes
If you are struggling to make sense of Ecclesiastes, consider reading "Living on the Ragged Edge" by Charles Swindoll. I have just started reading this book and it is very useful. It explains how Solomon, having the money and freedom to do as he pleased (as he was the king), was able to experience everything under the sun, just as we would like to do sometime. Wouldn't you appreciate the opportunity to break free from societal pressures and just do what you want, without a care in the world? That's what Solomon did, and he provided us with his journal. But what he found out was that a relationship lived "horizontally", without a focus on God, was worthless. We have to be right with God, and do our best to live "vertically", for life to make any sense and to get any sort of lasting satisfaction.
John 3:8 - The wind blows wherever it please. You hear its sound but you cannot tell where it comes from or where it is going. So it is with everyone born of the Spirit.
Jeremiah
Thoughts on chapter 18, about God as a potter.
God's unchanging nature does not mean that he cannot change his plans. His love for all mankind means that he will change his plans for us if we act in accordance to his will. If we go outside his will, then he will guide us back or we will suffer the consequences. Now those who believe in such doctrines as predestination and fate may see this as God's plan never changes, but what he says he will do and what he ends up doing were all a part of the final scheme anyway. Regardless, we know that if we ask forgiveness, God will grant it to us.
James
According to a footnote in my Bible, the priests had to wash their hands and feet before approaching God in the tabernacle. James exclamation "wash your hands, you sinners" therefore makes sense, as we should cleanse ourselves, and make our hearts right with God as we come to him.
Ecclesiastes
If you are struggling to make sense of Ecclesiastes, consider reading "Living on the Ragged Edge" by Charles Swindoll. I have just started reading this book and it is very useful. It explains how Solomon, having the money and freedom to do as he pleased (as he was the king), was able to experience everything under the sun, just as we would like to do sometime. Wouldn't you appreciate the opportunity to break free from societal pressures and just do what you want, without a care in the world? That's what Solomon did, and he provided us with his journal. But what he found out was that a relationship lived "horizontally", without a focus on God, was worthless. We have to be right with God, and do our best to live "vertically", for life to make any sense and to get any sort of lasting satisfaction.
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Prayer
Key verses
Ecclesiastes 5:2 - God is in heaven and you are on earth, so let your words be few.
John 2:19 - Jesus answered them, "Destroy this temple, and I will raise it again in three days."
Ecclesiastes
Solomon's statement in 5:2 remind me of Jesus' own words when he was teaching others how to pray. We should not babble on 'like the pagans', taking pride in our eloquence, but rather come humbly before God, knowing that he already knows and understands what you haven't completely thought out for yourself yet. Yet another likeness to the New Testament are the phrases on vows, which are like oaths. If we vow by God that we will do something, and then don't do it, we don't give God the honour he deserves.
Jeremiah
Jeremiah sure was a persevering individual! He even prayed for the people of Judah even though God told him not to bother, because destruction was going to come (see 14:11).
Ecclesiastes 5:2 - God is in heaven and you are on earth, so let your words be few.
John 2:19 - Jesus answered them, "Destroy this temple, and I will raise it again in three days."
Ecclesiastes
Solomon's statement in 5:2 remind me of Jesus' own words when he was teaching others how to pray. We should not babble on 'like the pagans', taking pride in our eloquence, but rather come humbly before God, knowing that he already knows and understands what you haven't completely thought out for yourself yet. Yet another likeness to the New Testament are the phrases on vows, which are like oaths. If we vow by God that we will do something, and then don't do it, we don't give God the honour he deserves.
Jeremiah
Jeremiah sure was a persevering individual! He even prayed for the people of Judah even though God told him not to bother, because destruction was going to come (see 14:11).
Monday, October 18, 2010
A Linen Belt
Key verses
Ecclesiastes 4:9, 12 - Two are better than one, because they have good return for their work: Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not easily broken.
James 3:9-10 - With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in God’s likeness. Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers, this should not be.
Jeremiah
Chapter 13 opens with a symbolic story about how useless Israel has become to God because of their unfaithfulness. When a belt is buried and not used for the purpose of holding clothes around the waist, it is useless! Even so, when Israel doesn't obey God and participate in a relationship with Him, they are rather useless in that relationship. Can you imagine what Jeremiah must have been thinking when he had to bury his belt to make a point? Perhaps by this time he knew that such actions would eventually have meaning, but on first glance, I would wonder, what in the world does this have to do with anything?
John
Jesus' mother's persistence is interesting. Here is the Messiah, saying, please, don't ask anything of me just yet, but his mother tells the servants to do whatever he tells them anyway. Don't mothers know best?
Ecclesiastes 4:9, 12 - Two are better than one, because they have good return for their work: Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not easily broken.
James 3:9-10 - With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in God’s likeness. Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers, this should not be.
Jeremiah
Chapter 13 opens with a symbolic story about how useless Israel has become to God because of their unfaithfulness. When a belt is buried and not used for the purpose of holding clothes around the waist, it is useless! Even so, when Israel doesn't obey God and participate in a relationship with Him, they are rather useless in that relationship. Can you imagine what Jeremiah must have been thinking when he had to bury his belt to make a point? Perhaps by this time he knew that such actions would eventually have meaning, but on first glance, I would wonder, what in the world does this have to do with anything?
John
Jesus' mother's persistence is interesting. Here is the Messiah, saying, please, don't ask anything of me just yet, but his mother tells the servants to do whatever he tells them anyway. Don't mothers know best?
Sunday, October 17, 2010
Truth - do we believe it?
Check out str.org. It's a site titled Stand To Reason and provides numerous resources on how Christians can defend their faith reasonably, logically, and good-naturedly (ie., no need for violent condemnation). They provide a lot of material that will help you think through your faith and understand how the truth does actually stand up as truth, even in today's twisted culture.
Faith without deeds
Key verse
Jeremiah 10:6 - No one is like you, O Lord; you are great, and your name is mighty in power.
James 2:26 - As the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without deeds is dead.
Jeremiah
One thing we can learn from Jeremiah is perseverance. People are plotting to kill him so that they don't have to listen to his message from the Lord, and yet he still relies on God for safety and continues to speak.
James
I think what James is getting at here is not that you have to do good works in order to be saved, but that good works are a natural outcome of true salvation. If we truly believe in Christ, we should believe in what he taught, and follow through on his teachings. Therefore, true faith cannot come without good works.
Jeremiah 10:6 - No one is like you, O Lord; you are great, and your name is mighty in power.
James 2:26 - As the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without deeds is dead.
Jeremiah
One thing we can learn from Jeremiah is perseverance. People are plotting to kill him so that they don't have to listen to his message from the Lord, and yet he still relies on God for safety and continues to speak.
James
I think what James is getting at here is not that you have to do good works in order to be saved, but that good works are a natural outcome of true salvation. If we truly believe in Christ, we should believe in what he taught, and follow through on his teachings. Therefore, true faith cannot come without good works.
Saturday, October 16, 2010
Am I your Favourite?
Key verses
Jeremiah 7:18-19 - They pour out drink offerings to other gods to provoke me to anger. But am I the one they are provoking? declares the Lord. Are they not rather harming themselves, to their own shame?
Ecclesiastes
God has set eternity in the hearts of men. This phrase reminds me of Blaise Pascal's statement that we all have a God-shaped hole in our hearts. We're longing for something more, something that lasts.
Jeremiah
Gilead was actually known for its medicinal herbs, renowned for the healing power of the plants that grew in that location.
James
Is it favouritism to pay more attention to your friends than any others at a party or gathering? I think the favouritism James is speaking about here is when you pre-judge someone by their appearance and then end up treating someone poorly. If you genuinely like someone better, is it wrong to treat them better than others, so long as you are also treating the other people well?
Jeremiah 7:18-19 - They pour out drink offerings to other gods to provoke me to anger. But am I the one they are provoking? declares the Lord. Are they not rather harming themselves, to their own shame?
Ecclesiastes
God has set eternity in the hearts of men. This phrase reminds me of Blaise Pascal's statement that we all have a God-shaped hole in our hearts. We're longing for something more, something that lasts.
Jeremiah
Gilead was actually known for its medicinal herbs, renowned for the healing power of the plants that grew in that location.
James
Is it favouritism to pay more attention to your friends than any others at a party or gathering? I think the favouritism James is speaking about here is when you pre-judge someone by their appearance and then end up treating someone poorly. If you genuinely like someone better, is it wrong to treat them better than others, so long as you are also treating the other people well?
Friday, October 15, 2010
Applying the word
Key verse
James 1:22 - Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.
James 1:22 - Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.
Thursday, October 14, 2010
Logos
Key verse
James 1:17 - Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.
John
The gospel of John was written in the late first centuray AD and addressed the popular gnostic/Greek idea that Jesus was fully God but not fully human. John's theme, therefore, is proving that Jesus is both God and man.
The term logos really speaks to yesterday's reading, but I will post about it here. Logos had both a Greek and biblical heritage as being the "divine creativity" of God or the "divine ordering principle". Identifying Jesus as Logos indicated that Jesus existed at the beginning of time with God, and that Jesus also embodied the divine order or truth of the world. -Archaeological Study Bible
James
It's interesting that for one so popular and revered in the early church, James would have such a short book. Compared to Paul, James takes up very little space in the New Testament. And yet, his letter does not lack anything in terms of theological lessons.
I appreciate James 1:12 because it helps debunk the myth of the prosperity gospel. James says that the man who perseveres under trial will receive the crown of life. I understand this to mean that anyone can suffer, regardless of the level of sinfulness (though we are all sinners on the same level in the eyes of God). We won't avoid troubles if we give money or time. We should give ourselves to God simply because he first gave himself to us, and even when we run into trouble, as it says we will in John 14, we can persevere and win the prize at the end of time.
Ecclesiastes
This verse, 1:18, is from yesterday, but I found myself thinking a little more about it today. I related it to the old maxim "Ignorance is bliss." Sometimes, ignorance is bliss and knowledge is pain, when knowledge forces us to act in a way we might not want to, or when we learn unpleasant truths about the world or about ourselves.
I think pleasure and laughter are quite useful, and can tie right in with the joy of the Lord. Solomon seems a little on the negative side here....
James 1:17 - Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.
John
The gospel of John was written in the late first centuray AD and addressed the popular gnostic/Greek idea that Jesus was fully God but not fully human. John's theme, therefore, is proving that Jesus is both God and man.
The term logos really speaks to yesterday's reading, but I will post about it here. Logos had both a Greek and biblical heritage as being the "divine creativity" of God or the "divine ordering principle". Identifying Jesus as Logos indicated that Jesus existed at the beginning of time with God, and that Jesus also embodied the divine order or truth of the world. -Archaeological Study Bible
James
It's interesting that for one so popular and revered in the early church, James would have such a short book. Compared to Paul, James takes up very little space in the New Testament. And yet, his letter does not lack anything in terms of theological lessons.
I appreciate James 1:12 because it helps debunk the myth of the prosperity gospel. James says that the man who perseveres under trial will receive the crown of life. I understand this to mean that anyone can suffer, regardless of the level of sinfulness (though we are all sinners on the same level in the eyes of God). We won't avoid troubles if we give money or time. We should give ourselves to God simply because he first gave himself to us, and even when we run into trouble, as it says we will in John 14, we can persevere and win the prize at the end of time.
Ecclesiastes
This verse, 1:18, is from yesterday, but I found myself thinking a little more about it today. I related it to the old maxim "Ignorance is bliss." Sometimes, ignorance is bliss and knowledge is pain, when knowledge forces us to act in a way we might not want to, or when we learn unpleasant truths about the world or about ourselves.
I think pleasure and laughter are quite useful, and can tie right in with the joy of the Lord. Solomon seems a little on the negative side here....
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
a little history
Key verse
Jeremiah 1:8 - "Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you and will rescue you," declares the Lord.
Ecclesiastes
In terms of human nature, the truth about the world, and basically all abstract ideas, I suppose there is nothing new since the beginning of time. However, I think we see things in a different and new way all the time, and for each person, life is new. Life is not meaningless either, unless we decide to not give it meaning. All we do here on earth has a lot of meaning, provided we do it with a view to eternity. So long as we are investing in others and growing in God, we can have a lot of meaning in life, even if what we are doing is mundane and seemingly pointless.
Jeremiah
There is more than one version of the book of Jeremiah. Our English translations are based on the Masoretic (Hebrew) text, but there is a different version in the Septuagint (ancient Greek) text. This difference is likely due to the turmoil of Jeremiah's time. Jeremiah prophesied about the impending doom of Jerusalem, and lived to see the city captured by foreigners, while he himself was one of the captives.
I have to admire Jeremiah's tenacity in bringing God's message to the people of Jerusalem. At this time, circa 626-580 BC, the people of Judah were intent on straying from God's commands, even though Jeremiah, and Josiah, the king at the beginning of Jeremiah's career, kept trying to bring them back to God.
*Here's a neat fact: the term 'Jew' is actually a short form for Judahite, or an inhabitant of Judah, and therefore only came into existence when Judah split from the rest of Israel. This term was then later applied to all "Israelites" when northern Israel was completely assimilated into foreign countries (approx. 720 BC) -all of this information on Jeremiah is compliments of the Archaeological Study Bible
Interesting comparison - God touch Jeremiah's mouth with his hand when he called him to be a prophet, and an angel touched Isaiah's lips with a hot coal when he received his calling. In both cases, the mouths were sanctified and cleansed, so as to be worthy of the words which they would later speak.
**More on today's reading later. As we are starting four new books today, I will give some thoughts on the New Testament ones tomorrow.
Jeremiah 1:8 - "Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you and will rescue you," declares the Lord.
Ecclesiastes
In terms of human nature, the truth about the world, and basically all abstract ideas, I suppose there is nothing new since the beginning of time. However, I think we see things in a different and new way all the time, and for each person, life is new. Life is not meaningless either, unless we decide to not give it meaning. All we do here on earth has a lot of meaning, provided we do it with a view to eternity. So long as we are investing in others and growing in God, we can have a lot of meaning in life, even if what we are doing is mundane and seemingly pointless.
Jeremiah
There is more than one version of the book of Jeremiah. Our English translations are based on the Masoretic (Hebrew) text, but there is a different version in the Septuagint (ancient Greek) text. This difference is likely due to the turmoil of Jeremiah's time. Jeremiah prophesied about the impending doom of Jerusalem, and lived to see the city captured by foreigners, while he himself was one of the captives.
I have to admire Jeremiah's tenacity in bringing God's message to the people of Jerusalem. At this time, circa 626-580 BC, the people of Judah were intent on straying from God's commands, even though Jeremiah, and Josiah, the king at the beginning of Jeremiah's career, kept trying to bring them back to God.
*Here's a neat fact: the term 'Jew' is actually a short form for Judahite, or an inhabitant of Judah, and therefore only came into existence when Judah split from the rest of Israel. This term was then later applied to all "Israelites" when northern Israel was completely assimilated into foreign countries (approx. 720 BC) -all of this information on Jeremiah is compliments of the Archaeological Study Bible
Interesting comparison - God touch Jeremiah's mouth with his hand when he called him to be a prophet, and an angel touched Isaiah's lips with a hot coal when he received his calling. In both cases, the mouths were sanctified and cleansed, so as to be worthy of the words which they would later speak.
**More on today's reading later. As we are starting four new books today, I will give some thoughts on the New Testament ones tomorrow.
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Humble and contrite
Key verses
Hebrews 13:20-21 - May the God of peace, who through the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, equip you with everything good for doing his will, and may he work in us what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever.
Isaiah
God saves his people. This is evident in Isaiah's narrative. Although they were sinful and had to be punished, God did rescue them and bring them out of the pit into the light of his blessing.
Even when sacrifices were required by Jewish law, they weren't an excuse for sin. Isaiah 66:2 explains that what God desires most is someone who follows him, who is "humble and contrite in spirit". Sacrifices were still necessary to cover for the sin that was still committed, but sacrifices on their own, without a real commitment to a right way of living, were not enough.
Hebrews 13:20-21 - May the God of peace, who through the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, equip you with everything good for doing his will, and may he work in us what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever.
Isaiah
God saves his people. This is evident in Isaiah's narrative. Although they were sinful and had to be punished, God did rescue them and bring them out of the pit into the light of his blessing.
Even when sacrifices were required by Jewish law, they weren't an excuse for sin. Isaiah 66:2 explains that what God desires most is someone who follows him, who is "humble and contrite in spirit". Sacrifices were still necessary to cover for the sin that was still committed, but sacrifices on their own, without a real commitment to a right way of living, were not enough.
Monday, October 11, 2010
Mercy, not vengeance
Key verses
Proverbs
29:15 and 17 - Too many people leave their kids to their own devices or expect video games and tv to educate them. Let's get back to family time and actually imparting personal/social skills and moral values to our kids so that our society doesn't continue to spiral out of control!
IsaiahThe Lord states in Isaiah 59:21 that the words he will impart to his people will not depart from their mouths, or from the mouths of their children forever. I thought this was kind of strange, because it seemed like that meant that God's word would remain silent forever. However, depart here doesn't seem to mean that they will not speak, but rather that God's word will always remain with them and when they do speak, it will be God speaking through them. We have a promise from God, then, that his Spirit will be in us and his words will always be in our mouths, ready to be proclaimed to whomever we meet, forever.
"Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord rises upon you." (60:1) Out of the online commentaries I have looked at, only one suggests in passing that this salvation may be from Babylonian rule, but even that theologian concludes, with the others, that this passage is referring to Christ coming to save his people. Just as in Isaiah 9, where the people walking in darkness saw a great light, Isaiah 60 proclaims the coming salvation and great light of Christ.
Luke
I wonder what it was about the breaking of the bread that made these two men on the road to Emmaus realize that it was Jesus with whom they were talking?
Hebrews
Abel's blood cried out for vengeance against Cain. Jesus' blood cries out to God for mercy so that we don't have to die. Let us try to mirror that approach, and extend mercy and grace to our neighbours today, rather than vengeance and annoyance.
Hebrews 12:28-29 - Therefore,
since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be
thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe, for our “God is a consuming fire.”
Proverbs
29:15 and 17 - Too many people leave their kids to their own devices or expect video games and tv to educate them. Let's get back to family time and actually imparting personal/social skills and moral values to our kids so that our society doesn't continue to spiral out of control!
IsaiahThe Lord states in Isaiah 59:21 that the words he will impart to his people will not depart from their mouths, or from the mouths of their children forever. I thought this was kind of strange, because it seemed like that meant that God's word would remain silent forever. However, depart here doesn't seem to mean that they will not speak, but rather that God's word will always remain with them and when they do speak, it will be God speaking through them. We have a promise from God, then, that his Spirit will be in us and his words will always be in our mouths, ready to be proclaimed to whomever we meet, forever.
"Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord rises upon you." (60:1) Out of the online commentaries I have looked at, only one suggests in passing that this salvation may be from Babylonian rule, but even that theologian concludes, with the others, that this passage is referring to Christ coming to save his people. Just as in Isaiah 9, where the people walking in darkness saw a great light, Isaiah 60 proclaims the coming salvation and great light of Christ.
Luke
I wonder what it was about the breaking of the bread that made these two men on the road to Emmaus realize that it was Jesus with whom they were talking?
Hebrews
Abel's blood cried out for vengeance against Cain. Jesus' blood cries out to God for mercy so that we don't have to die. Let us try to mirror that approach, and extend mercy and grace to our neighbours today, rather than vengeance and annoyance.
Sunday, October 10, 2010
God is watching
Key verses
Proverbs 29:7 - The righteous care about justice for the poor, but the wicked have no such concern.
Hebrews 12:2 - Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
Isaiah
56:1-2 - These two verses caught my attention. I read them, and thought, 'that's kind of neat'. To have the righteous die in order to be saved from evil sounds comforting. This isn't always the case though, and I found out through Barnes' Notes on the Bible that Isaiah was likely talking about the massive slaughter of most of the devout Jews by Manasseh, the king of Israel at that time. None of their fellow country men paid any attention to this wholesale killing, suggesting that those who merely watched and said nothing were okay with what was going on. In the end, those who were still alive would eventually be conquered by an invading nation, but the righteous who had already been killed escaped this later terror. I came away from studying that passage with the renewed sense that studying commentaries are important so we can see where the author is coming from (in this case, Isaiah).
58:4-6 - This passage reminds me of the Pharisees, who claim to follow the letter of the law, but completely miss the spirit or intent of the law. Many of the Jews in Isaiah's time were following the law, taking pride in the fact that they fasted so often, and yet completely ignored the downtrodden and poor among them. We aren't supposed to fast in order to draw the attention to ourselves. Fasting should turn our attention away from us, toward God and toward our neighbours. If fasting is making us self-centred, then we shouldn't be doing it.
Luke
Luke 24:26 makes reading the Old Testament on its own without our "Jesus-coloured" glasses a bit more difficult. By "Jesus-coloured" glasses I mean that we are living in the year of our Lord, we have seen the coming of the Messiah and believe all the prophecies that were proclaimed about him. Jesus himself told these two men on the road to Emmaus that the prophets spoke about himself. However, if we are to understand the Old Testament as its authors understood it, we have to take a few steps back in history. Clearly, there are references to Christ in the Old Testament, but where do we draw the line? Many of the prophecies were not meant for our day, or for the early Christian church, but spoke to the ancient Israelites in their time. Let's remember to use a bit of caution when interpreting the scriptures.
Hebrews
We are surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses! I saw that and thought, 'that's kind of creepy'. When you think about lots of invisible people watching you do your daily tasks, that can be encouraging or well... creepy. Then I realized that, wait a minute, God is always watching me. If I should care about anyone seeing what I do, it should be God. But it is so easy to not pay him any mind, and continue doing what I do without a thought of what God is thinking about me. Life application for this passage for today? Remember that God is always watching!
Proverbs 29:7 - The righteous care about justice for the poor, but the wicked have no such concern.
Hebrews 12:2 - Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
Isaiah
56:1-2 - These two verses caught my attention. I read them, and thought, 'that's kind of neat'. To have the righteous die in order to be saved from evil sounds comforting. This isn't always the case though, and I found out through Barnes' Notes on the Bible that Isaiah was likely talking about the massive slaughter of most of the devout Jews by Manasseh, the king of Israel at that time. None of their fellow country men paid any attention to this wholesale killing, suggesting that those who merely watched and said nothing were okay with what was going on. In the end, those who were still alive would eventually be conquered by an invading nation, but the righteous who had already been killed escaped this later terror. I came away from studying that passage with the renewed sense that studying commentaries are important so we can see where the author is coming from (in this case, Isaiah).
58:4-6 - This passage reminds me of the Pharisees, who claim to follow the letter of the law, but completely miss the spirit or intent of the law. Many of the Jews in Isaiah's time were following the law, taking pride in the fact that they fasted so often, and yet completely ignored the downtrodden and poor among them. We aren't supposed to fast in order to draw the attention to ourselves. Fasting should turn our attention away from us, toward God and toward our neighbours. If fasting is making us self-centred, then we shouldn't be doing it.
Luke
Luke 24:26 makes reading the Old Testament on its own without our "Jesus-coloured" glasses a bit more difficult. By "Jesus-coloured" glasses I mean that we are living in the year of our Lord, we have seen the coming of the Messiah and believe all the prophecies that were proclaimed about him. Jesus himself told these two men on the road to Emmaus that the prophets spoke about himself. However, if we are to understand the Old Testament as its authors understood it, we have to take a few steps back in history. Clearly, there are references to Christ in the Old Testament, but where do we draw the line? Many of the prophecies were not meant for our day, or for the early Christian church, but spoke to the ancient Israelites in their time. Let's remember to use a bit of caution when interpreting the scriptures.
Hebrews
We are surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses! I saw that and thought, 'that's kind of creepy'. When you think about lots of invisible people watching you do your daily tasks, that can be encouraging or well... creepy. Then I realized that, wait a minute, God is always watching me. If I should care about anyone seeing what I do, it should be God. But it is so easy to not pay him any mind, and continue doing what I do without a thought of what God is thinking about me. Life application for this passage for today? Remember that God is always watching!
Saturday, October 9, 2010
He is not here... (That may sound odd, but read on!)
Key verse
Luke 24:5-6 - "Why do you look for the living among the dead? He is not here; he has risen!"
Luke
24:12 - Peter saw the empty graveclothes and heard from the women what they had seen, and yet still wondered what had happened to Jesus. History gives us great clarity because I can't see how there could be any other conclusion than Jesus rising from the dead. Living there at that time, seeing it happen before my eyes, I think resurrection could certainly be a possibility in my mind. After all, Jesus had already done a number of miracles, including bringing the dead back to life. Certainly knowing what I know now, if I saw something like that again, I feel like I would also believe in new life. However, I could be overly optimistic about this, and in the shock of the moment, perhaps I would simply be utterly confused. It's difficult to reach a sure answer on these hypothetical.
Here's a tidbit from Clarke's Commentary on a different section of this verse."Peter seeth the linen clothes lie, and the napkin that was about his head not lying with the linen clothes, but Wrapped together in a place by itself. All these circumstances prove that the thing was done leisurely; order and regularity being observed through the whole. Hurry and confusion necessarily mark every act of robbery."
Hebrews
11:40 - God planned something better for his people. It's hard not to want to charge ahead and make sure we get what we want in this life. We have got to rely on God because ultimately it is going to be God orchestrating everything anyway, and he sees everything, knows everything. Even when it looks like we're going to lose out on something, probably like Peter felt when he saw Jesus die, before he saw the empty clothes and began wondering, even when it looks that bad, God's in control! And we can take heart in that.
Isaiah
God's thoughts are higher than our thoughts. This idea ties right in to the readings from Hebrews and Luke. We only see a part of the picture. When God freely pardons us, we can't see the whole thing. When he forgives someone we don't think should be forgiven, we aren't seeing what God is seeing, and we certainly aren't thinking what he is thinking! He is so far above us. That's a good perspective to have, so that we can try and see the world from his point of view, at least a little bit, so that we can better understand what we're supposed to do.
Luke 24:5-6 - "Why do you look for the living among the dead? He is not here; he has risen!"
Luke
24:12 - Peter saw the empty graveclothes and heard from the women what they had seen, and yet still wondered what had happened to Jesus. History gives us great clarity because I can't see how there could be any other conclusion than Jesus rising from the dead. Living there at that time, seeing it happen before my eyes, I think resurrection could certainly be a possibility in my mind. After all, Jesus had already done a number of miracles, including bringing the dead back to life. Certainly knowing what I know now, if I saw something like that again, I feel like I would also believe in new life. However, I could be overly optimistic about this, and in the shock of the moment, perhaps I would simply be utterly confused. It's difficult to reach a sure answer on these hypothetical.
Here's a tidbit from Clarke's Commentary on a different section of this verse."Peter seeth the linen clothes lie, and the napkin that was about his head not lying with the linen clothes, but Wrapped together in a place by itself. All these circumstances prove that the thing was done leisurely; order and regularity being observed through the whole. Hurry and confusion necessarily mark every act of robbery."
Hebrews
11:40 - God planned something better for his people. It's hard not to want to charge ahead and make sure we get what we want in this life. We have got to rely on God because ultimately it is going to be God orchestrating everything anyway, and he sees everything, knows everything. Even when it looks like we're going to lose out on something, probably like Peter felt when he saw Jesus die, before he saw the empty clothes and began wondering, even when it looks that bad, God's in control! And we can take heart in that.
Isaiah
God's thoughts are higher than our thoughts. This idea ties right in to the readings from Hebrews and Luke. We only see a part of the picture. When God freely pardons us, we can't see the whole thing. When he forgives someone we don't think should be forgiven, we aren't seeing what God is seeing, and we certainly aren't thinking what he is thinking! He is so far above us. That's a good perspective to have, so that we can try and see the world from his point of view, at least a little bit, so that we can better understand what we're supposed to do.
You should read this
You should read this book: "Taking the Guesswork out of Applying the Bible" by Jack Kuhatschek. It's great! It talks a lot about what I've been saying in this blog. God's word is for all people at all times - we just need to make sure we understand it was delivered at a particular point in time so it may not speak to us culturally in our setting, but the basic message is the same for everyone.
Friday, October 8, 2010
Good news and the kingdom
Key verse
Isaiah 51:11 - The ransomed of the LORD will return. They will enter Zion with singing; everlasting joy will crown their heads. Gladness and joy will overtake them, and sorrow and sighing will flee away.
Isaiah
52:7, the feet of those who bring good news, speaks of messengers bringing a message of victory to the waiting king (this tidbit compliments of the Archaeological Study Bible). Do I bring good news (THE good news) to the people I meet?
Luke
23:51 - "He came from the Judean town of Arimathea and he was waiting for the kingdom of God." This is stated so matter of factly, that Joseph was waiting for the kingdom of God. The commentaries don't really speak to this statement. I see it as sort of a saying on a tombstone. If Joseph had died before Jesus actually came, his headstone may have said "He was waiting for the kingdom of God." That speaks of hope and faith, like we've been reading about in Hebrews. Today, let's try to make sure that we are living in the kingdom of God, and extending it as best we can, by the grace of God.
Isaiah 51:11 - The ransomed of the LORD will return. They will enter Zion with singing; everlasting joy will crown their heads. Gladness and joy will overtake them, and sorrow and sighing will flee away.
Isaiah
52:7, the feet of those who bring good news, speaks of messengers bringing a message of victory to the waiting king (this tidbit compliments of the Archaeological Study Bible). Do I bring good news (THE good news) to the people I meet?
Luke
23:51 - "He came from the Judean town of Arimathea and he was waiting for the kingdom of God." This is stated so matter of factly, that Joseph was waiting for the kingdom of God. The commentaries don't really speak to this statement. I see it as sort of a saying on a tombstone. If Joseph had died before Jesus actually came, his headstone may have said "He was waiting for the kingdom of God." That speaks of hope and faith, like we've been reading about in Hebrews. Today, let's try to make sure that we are living in the kingdom of God, and extending it as best we can, by the grace of God.
Thursday, October 7, 2010
Faith!
Key verses
Proverbs 27:17 - As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.
Hebrews 11:1 - Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.
Luke
I like the imagery God uses even at the death of Jesus. Luke 23:45 says the curtain of the temple was torn in two. The curtain that separated us from God in the temple was destroyed, and now we can meet with God whenever and wherever we want! Jesus truly opened the way.
Hebrews
Those people of faith mentioned in Hebrews 11 all died and did not receive what was promised to them (v. 13). That's faith! Sticking with it and believing that God is going to come through, regardless of what you personally experience. I'm fairly impatient, so I definitely have a lesson to learn here. God's in control - he knows what he's doing. Why don't I just let him do it, and align myself with him, rather than try and push my own agenda at him and hope that he'll do that instead? We can think we know what's best, but in the end, only God sees the whole picture.
Proverbs 27:17 - As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.
Hebrews 11:1 - Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.
Luke
I like the imagery God uses even at the death of Jesus. Luke 23:45 says the curtain of the temple was torn in two. The curtain that separated us from God in the temple was destroyed, and now we can meet with God whenever and wherever we want! Jesus truly opened the way.
Hebrews
Those people of faith mentioned in Hebrews 11 all died and did not receive what was promised to them (v. 13). That's faith! Sticking with it and believing that God is going to come through, regardless of what you personally experience. I'm fairly impatient, so I definitely have a lesson to learn here. God's in control - he knows what he's doing. Why don't I just let him do it, and align myself with him, rather than try and push my own agenda at him and hope that he'll do that instead? We can think we know what's best, but in the end, only God sees the whole picture.
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Confidence of Faith
Key verse
Luke 23:43 - Jesus answered him, "I tell you the truth, today you will be with me in Paradise."
Hebrews 10:31 - It is a dreadful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.
Proverbs
Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring forth (27:1). This verse has me thinking about hope. I want to hope for things that will happen tomorrow, and talk about them with my friends and family. What does boasting about it mean? Taking pride in what will happen, believing that I can bring it about, rather than relying on God to bring about what I'm hoping for.
Isaiah
This passage ties right into Proverbs 27:1. God is in control, so there is no way we can take pride in what happens, thinking that we have brought it about. God is in all things and has power over all things. He will bring down anyone he needs to and raise up anyone he wants.
Hebrews
Encourage one another daily. This is such a great goal, and one that I aspire to, and yet do I do this? I get so caught up in my own life that I end up completely ignoring the people that I want to be in community with, like fellow church-goers, immediate family members, friends.
Verse 35 speaks about confidence, having confidence of faith. I believe I have faith, but there's always doubt because I wonder what I would do if I were in the situation of some of these biblical characters who were persecuted and robbed because of their faith. Would I stand strong? This is always the question. So far, I have not been able to irrevocably say yes, I would. There's always doubt that I am too weak. I know with God all things are possible, and God works through my weakness, so am I doubting that God would work through me? I believe that God would become my strength. I have to forget my doubts, lay them aside, and walk forward in the truth that God is my rock and my salvation.
Luke 23:43 - Jesus answered him, "I tell you the truth, today you will be with me in Paradise."
Hebrews 10:31 - It is a dreadful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.
Proverbs
Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring forth (27:1). This verse has me thinking about hope. I want to hope for things that will happen tomorrow, and talk about them with my friends and family. What does boasting about it mean? Taking pride in what will happen, believing that I can bring it about, rather than relying on God to bring about what I'm hoping for.
Isaiah
This passage ties right into Proverbs 27:1. God is in control, so there is no way we can take pride in what happens, thinking that we have brought it about. God is in all things and has power over all things. He will bring down anyone he needs to and raise up anyone he wants.
Hebrews
Encourage one another daily. This is such a great goal, and one that I aspire to, and yet do I do this? I get so caught up in my own life that I end up completely ignoring the people that I want to be in community with, like fellow church-goers, immediate family members, friends.
Verse 35 speaks about confidence, having confidence of faith. I believe I have faith, but there's always doubt because I wonder what I would do if I were in the situation of some of these biblical characters who were persecuted and robbed because of their faith. Would I stand strong? This is always the question. So far, I have not been able to irrevocably say yes, I would. There's always doubt that I am too weak. I know with God all things are possible, and God works through my weakness, so am I doubting that God would work through me? I believe that God would become my strength. I have to forget my doubts, lay them aside, and walk forward in the truth that God is my rock and my salvation.
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
Wisdom
Wisdom. Proverbs has been speaking about how important wisdom is and that we should seek it, and that the wise will prosper. It's not an easy thing to be wise. Today I will be praying that God gives me wisdom for all of life's circumstances.
Monday, October 4, 2010
Salvation by death from death
Key verse
Hebrews 9:26 - "But now he [Christ] has appeared once for all at the end of the ages to do away with sin by the sacrifice of himself."
Isaiah
"Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. For I am the Lord, your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior." (43:1-3)
Hebrews 9:26 - "But now he [Christ] has appeared once for all at the end of the ages to do away with sin by the sacrifice of himself."
Isaiah
"Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. For I am the Lord, your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior." (43:1-3)
When I first read this passage, I was encouraged by God's salvation. Then I read it again, and realized that God's salvation comes when we need saving. Ultimately, we need saving from sin, which he has done for us. Beyond that, we need saving when we are walking through those trials of life. We will see terrible times in our day - that's the reality of sin's effect on our world. Even amidst the suffering, however, God will give us the strength to withstand the evil and be saved.
Proverbs
Verses 4 and 5 of chapter 26 require some thinking in order to make sense of them. After reading a few things from Clarke's commentary, I have discovered that you have to look at each verse a little differently. In the first case, you don't want to answer a fool according to his folly in the sense that you don't want to stoop to his level of not making sense, because then you won't make any sense yourself. However, you do want to use his folly (v. 5) to point out his illogical thinking so that he will hopefully see that he doesn't make any sense.
Hebrews
How did blood and death come to be the means by which we are saved?
What was it about the tree of good and evil that made death the only
means to overcome death? That is, in the Old Testament, other animals
had to die to save the Jews from an eternal death, and now Christ had to
die in the place of those animals to save all of humankind. Is this an
answerable question, or is it just the way things are?
Sunday, October 3, 2010
The infinite God
After a long and exhausting weekend, I am back to the grind. However, today's post will be a little shorter than normal as I am still recovering.
That passage of Isaiah was uplifting. The language used reminded me of how great God is and how lowly we are. In this sense, it was not uplifting, I suppose, but it was still an encouragement to me. God is so great, so knowledgeable, the essence of everything we know and everything we are, and he is in communication with us, in a relationship with each of us! This infinite God is our friend. When I actually sit down and think about this, it's hard to understand, and yet it is so amazing. I hope today's passage in Isaiah was an encouragement to you as well. Don't get too proud about your position in life, but take pride in the fact that the God who marked the foundations of the earth and can hold the dust of this earth in a basket has reached out to you personally and is waiting for your response.
That passage of Isaiah was uplifting. The language used reminded me of how great God is and how lowly we are. In this sense, it was not uplifting, I suppose, but it was still an encouragement to me. God is so great, so knowledgeable, the essence of everything we know and everything we are, and he is in communication with us, in a relationship with each of us! This infinite God is our friend. When I actually sit down and think about this, it's hard to understand, and yet it is so amazing. I hope today's passage in Isaiah was an encouragement to you as well. Don't get too proud about your position in life, but take pride in the fact that the God who marked the foundations of the earth and can hold the dust of this earth in a basket has reached out to you personally and is waiting for your response.
Saturday, October 2, 2010
Are you obsolete and aging?
Key verse
Hebrews 8:13 - "By calling this covenant 'new,' he has made the first one obsolete; and what is obsolete and aging will soon disappear."
I chose this as today's key verse because it speaks to our technological world. Our techno-gizmos keep changing and the old ones become obsolete and we never hear of them again. How biblical!?
Hebrews 8:13 - "By calling this covenant 'new,' he has made the first one obsolete; and what is obsolete and aging will soon disappear."
I chose this as today's key verse because it speaks to our technological world. Our techno-gizmos keep changing and the old ones become obsolete and we never hear of them again. How biblical!?
Friday, October 1, 2010
A little rest...
Key verse
Proverbs 24:33-34 - "A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest - and poverty will come on you like a bandit and scarcity like an armed man."
We can't take this verse out of context because God has decreed for us a day of rest, and we should not feel guilty taking it. But when hard work is needed, let's get to it.
Proverbs 24:33-34 - "A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest - and poverty will come on you like a bandit and scarcity like an armed man."
We can't take this verse out of context because God has decreed for us a day of rest, and we should not feel guilty taking it. But when hard work is needed, let's get to it.
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