These notes are not intended as a complete Bible Study, but are just a few thoughts gathered daily
Please always remember that the Words of the Lord are flawless. Ps 126 Prov 305
My notes will obviously attempt to be accurate and although turned 80, I'm still keen to learn.
Comments / suggestions are always welcome.
Genesis [Contents]
The book of beginnings; the beginning of the world
the beginning of Israel
and God's plan for man's salvation.
| Gen 1,2 How did this world begin? Who created it, and why? |
All creation was entirely God's initiative, design and power. It shows his great ingenuity, beauty, imagination, variety, simplicity, balance, laws, interaction, integration, interdependence, stability, energy. It reveals his detailed patient care, from the subatomic physics to the vast universe, He created it all in preparation for the creation of man. Almighty God desired to share his life with man - whatever the cost would be. His determination and brilliance is revealed here and throughout the Scriptures. And God said ... x11. He spoke the word and all matter and life were created. Jn 13 Col 116 Ps 336-9 For details see "God's Creation of the World" and "For Evolution Theory Lie" Click on back arrow to return here God saw all that he had made, and it was very good. |
| Gen 3 Satan's character and methods? Could sin be avoided? c.f. Math 41-11 Significance of 315 ? |
Satan, the arch-deceiver, hated all men and all that God had created. God wants us to know about Satan's 'more crafty' character. Satan initiates doubt, then blatant denial of truth and attributes false motives. Adam and Eve had no idea who they were dealing with. When questioned by God they both tried to make excuses. Man's weakness did not surprise God; he had clearly warned them. No plan B. He knew the cost to him of salvation before he began creation. Always keep in mind "It is written". Learn all Scripture - treasure God's gift. Sin always has consequences. Eden changed from an experience to a dream. All men and women now have to endure sweat and pain. The Lord God made ... garments of skins and clothed them. What grace! The return to ‘Eden’ (salvation) could only be made by a sacrifice. |
| Gen 4 Why did God favour Abel, not Cain? |
The younger son Abel earnestly sought and found God. In faith and gratitude he offered his best. Heb 114a, 6 He obtained faith because God spoke to him, assuring him of forgiveness by his presence. His joy was obvious; But Cain was jealous. Cain had no real hunger for God and when warned by God he ignored it. Note parallel with Jacob and Esau. Also with the women in Lu 736-50 and Mk 1241-44 Abel, the first to be saved and find favour with God, still speaks. Heb 114b, 13-16 All who call upon the Lord will be saved. Joel 232 But Cain belonged to the evil one. 1 Jn 312 |
| Gen 5 Adam to Noah, 10 generations, av. age 847 yrs. |
After the birth of Methuselah, Enoch aged 65, walked with God for 300 years. Enoch and Elijah only men who didn't die. God took them away. Noah born 69 years after g.grandfather Enoch taken. But during this time (~1,600 years) men grew in number, and wickedness. |
| Gen 6 The degree of wickedness + result? Noah's faith and righteousness basis? |
They married any of them they chose. v2 This suggests massive 'free sex' and
was very distant from one man and one woman for life that God had initiated. Man's wickedness was great because his thoughts were only evil all the time. v5. And the earth was corrupt in God's sight and full of violence. v11. But Noah was righteous because he knew about the wages of sin and by faith he first called upon the Lord. Then in obedience built the Ark. Heb 117 He covered the inside and out with pitch - Hebrew Kippur = atonement. v14 Salvation is by the atonement and propitiation through Christ; both are revealed and believed by faith. Noah proved this by his obedience. He was protected and walked with God. v9,22 (Only he and Enoch are recorded thus) God revealed to Noah his plan to destroy all life under the heavens! v17 God was pleased to make a covenant of salvation with Noah. v18 Enabled by God, Noah worked hard and with great skill for 120 years. v3,9. |
| Gen 7 God's judgement of wickedness and his saving grace revealed. |
God graciously watched Noah build. Only when complete he told Noah to go
into the Ark - flood would come in 7 days. v4. Noah was 600 when he entered the ark. One of the last things Noah did before this was to bury Methusaleh (= "In the day that I die it shall happen") aged 969 =187+182+600. Gen 525-31 Such was the gracious warning of God. God gathered all the animals. God shut them in. v16 (and all others out!) On the 7th day God commanded the flood - springs of the great deep burst forth (remains still under Yellowstone park), and rain fell for 40 days. Highest mountains covered by 20ft. v20. Earth flooded for 150 days. Only Noah was righteous and only he preached righteousness, so only he, his family and the animals were saved. 2 Pe 21-10 This most explicitly reveals that God saves and God also judges wickedness. The last days will be as in Noah's day - evil men will scoff! 2 Pe 33-7 Beware! Both then and now God will fulfill his clear warning. |
| Gen 8 God and Noah both waited and acted |
God remembered Noah + all livestock - He never for once forgot them. v1 God sent a wind over the earth and the waters receded. (where to?) As in the Exodus at the Red Sea, the wind of God moved the waters. After 150 days ... + 40 sent raven + 7 sent dove (returned) + 7 sent dove (returned with leaf) + 7 sent dove (didn't return). Removed covering of Ark. Noah waited until God told him to come out of the Ark. v15 (after 376 days) Noah builds altar + sacrifice of gratitude to God - protection + salvation. God makes covenant - Never again will I curse the ground because of man, even though every inclination of his heart is evil from childhood. And never again will I destroy all living creatures. v21 |
| Gen 91-17 Major changes? |
God blessed Noah and his family; told to multiply and fill the earth. v1,7 But the fear and dread of you will fall upon all the beasts of the earth and all the birds of the air, upon every creature. v2 Everything that lives and moves will be food for you. Just as I gave you the green plants, I now give you everything. But you must not eat meat that has its lifeblood still in it. v3,4 Whoever sheds the blood of man, by man shall his blood be shed. v6 God repeats his covenant; flood waters will never again destroy all life. v8-15 Rainbow will be the sign of this everlasting covenant. v16,17 |
| Gen918-28 Sin is no joking matter |
Noah planted a vineyard and then drank too much. Lay naked in tent. Ham thought it was a joke and told his brothers, who respected their father. The consequences? "Cursed be Canaan!" Canaan, Ham's son and his descendants will be slaves of Shem and Japheth. Beware: idle, careless words can have a high price. Math 1236,37 Why did Noah curse Canaan rather than Ham? Was this to ensure the curse would continue onto the future generations (like the sin of Adam and Eve)? Although not certain the words 'saw his father's nakedness' may imply sodomy. |
| Gen 101 - 119 Why did Noah's sons form separate nations? Why did men want to build Babel? |
Families sometimes stick together while others separate and go their own way. From one man he made every nation of men, that they should inhabit the whole earth; and he determined the times set for them and the exact places where they should live. God did this so that men would seek him and perhaps reach out for him and find him, though he is not far from each one of us. Act 1726,27 Shem went east to modern Iran. Ham went West to N. Africa, Egypt and 'fertile crescent'. Japheth went north to modern Turkey. Nimrod (Hebrew = Rebel) grew to be a mighty warrior He was a grandson of Ham; he founded Babylon (Babel). 1010 Like many mighty men, Nimrod wanted to make a name (a memorial) for himself and persuaded his people that it was for them too! It was an expression of secular humanism that excluded the Lord God, and elevated man, making him larger and higher than anyone else. So the Almighty confused their language and scattered them. Totally different from Pentecost when he drew men together, explained language and men desired to honour God. In the industrial, technological revolution of the last 200 years this spirit of Nimrod, and Babel has grown again. How long will it last? Even the EU parliament building in Strasbourg is modelled on Babel! And an EU poster advert showed Babel with the blasphemous heading "Many nations, One Voice". |
| Gen 1110-32 |
Here the 10 generations from Shem to Abraham are listed. (also Lu 3) God called Abraham to leave Ur (150 miles SE of Babylon in S.Iraq). Most of the descendants of Shem lived further east (in modern Iran). God also calls us to leave Babylon and its evil spirit. Rev 184 2Co 617 Jer 516,45 |
| Gen 121-9 God initiates his plan to bring salvation to the world through the Jews. The 2 part journey from Ur and the promise of blessing. |
Terah took his family, and together they set out from Ur of the Chaldeans to go
to Canaan. 1131 Not told when God instructed him. They stopped at Haran. When Terah died God spoke to Abram. 121 Now the instruction is clear. This was the first of 9 recorded times that Almighty God speaks to Abram. a. Go to the land I will show you. b. I will make you into a great nation and I will bless you. c. I will bless those who bless you, d. and whoever curses you I will curse. d. All peoples on earth will be blessed through you. Abram obeyed. He journeyed on till he came to Shechem. Then God spoke again. To your offspring I will give this land. God has fulfilled all this; and he will continue to do so. Redemption by Jesus is complete, but we await salvation and the establishment of the eternal and righteous kingdom of God. Heb 928 But foolish, evil men have always challenged/ignored this rescue plan of God. Not only the land gift, but the necessity and the only means of salvation. The truth remains that whoever calls on the name of the Lord will be saved. For 4,000 years God has been fulfilling what he began in these verses. |
| Gen 1210-20 God's chosen Abram wasn't perfect. But God's mercy and grace know no bounds and his plan is not changed. |
It's easy to say Abram was wrong to allow famine to drive him to Egypt, and
certainly to pretend that his wife Sarai was his sister to save his own skin. But God intervenes and makes Pharaoh send them back to the promised land. Abram would not make that mistake again. |
| Gen 13 Righteousness is never the loser in the long run. Lot would soon lose everything, including his wife when God destroyed Sodom. 2Pe 24-10 |
Abram returns to place between Bethel and Ai where he was at first. There he called on the name of the Lord. Maybe he asks, "What next?" Herdsmen of Abram and Lot quarrel - too much livestock for the land. Abram gives Lot the choice - he chooses Sodom's fertile plain; (only later after God's judgement did it become dry arid land). Abram has rocky hills. But the men of Sodom were wicked and were sinning greatly against the Lord. God repeats his promise to give all the land to Abram's offspring. Abram goes to Hebron where he again built an altar to the Lord - in thanks. |
| Gen 14 What did Abram do? And not do? Why did Melchizedek come to Abram? Who was/is he? |
4 kings defeat 5 kings (including king of Sodom). As soon as Abram learned Lot
had been abducted, he took his 318 trained men, overthrew the 5 kings and
rescued Lot. Abram was prepared for war. He refused any loot for himself from
the evil king of Sodom, but didn't stop his men receiving their share. Significantly Melchizedek brings bread and wine, and blesses Abram. Then Abram gave him a tenth of everything. How? Melchizedek only mentioned here, Ps 1104 and in Heb 7. Melchizedek = eternal priest + king of Righteousness and Peace - thus Messiah. God was preparing Abram for the next step recorded in next chapter. |
| Gen 15 What troubled Abram? How did God overcome it? |
Abram said, "O Sovereign Lord, what can you give me since I remain childless." Almighty God repeats truth that he and Sarai would have a son. Then he showed him the night sky and asked him to count the stars, and simply said, "So shall your offspring be." Just as I created them all, so will you! Abram believed the Lord, and he credited it to him as righteousness. Not for first or last time Creation proves the greatness and power of God. Today when evolution theory lie is taught as truth, men emphasise the love of God, and rarely appreciate his greatness or speak about his just judgement and the necessity of the Cross to enable propitiation and forgiveness of our sin. Abraham saw the day of Jesus Christ, he believed the sacrifice Melchizedek brought, and was glad. Faith in God brought assurance. Jn 856 Almighty God then repeated the promise of land. But Abram said, "O Sovereign Lord, how can I know that I will gain possession of it?" So God ratified his promise. v9-12,17 He also revealed that his descendants would be strangers and slaves in Egypt for 400 years, then they would come out with great possessions. v14 On that day the Lord made a covenant with Abram and said, "To your descendants I give this land, from the river of Egypt to the great river, the Euphrates. v18. Amram and Jochebed believed this too. see Exd 22 Heb 1123 |
| Gen 16 A prime example of how human interference leaves a trail of problems for many generations. |
Impatience led Sarai to a bad idea and Abram agreed to it. - Hagar to have
their child. Problems arose: Hagar despised Sarai. Sarai then mistreated Hagar. Hagar
fled. God send angel to tell Hagar to return. She obeys. Angel also tells Hagar
about her son: "You are now with child and you will have a son. You shall name
him Ishmael, for the Lord has heard of your misery. He will be a wild donkey
of a man; his hand will be against everyone and everyone's hand against him, and he will live in hostility toward all his brothers." v11,12 And so it has been for the last 4,000 years. Muslims descended from Ishmael. Abraham was 86 when Ishmael born. They would have to wait another 14 years before Sarai gave birth to Isaac, the child of promise. God's plan requires faith and patience. So from this story let us learn that God's instructions are always best. |
| Gen 17 God repeats covenant with Abram; why important? |
"I am God Almighty; walk before me and be blameless. I will confirm my
covenant between me and you and will greatly increase your numbers. ... This is my covenant with you: You will be the father of many nations. ... I will establish my covenant as an everlasting covenant between me and you and your descendants after you for the generations to come, to be your God and the God of your descendants after you. The whole land of Canaan, where you are now an alien, I will give as an everlasting possession to you and your descendants after you; and I will be their God." v1-8 God confirms covenant with Abram to not only become a great nation, but many nations. Also promises to be their God and confirms the everlasting gift of land. (This has always been contested by ungodly men.) God confirms covenant by changing his name from Abram to Abraham. God instructs personal (not on public view) sign of covenant to be circumcision. (Also good medical practice - cervical cancer in Jewish women is very rare.) Abraham pleads with God for Ishmael; but God says No! Sarah will bear your son and you will call him Isaac (='laughs'. Abraham also laughed. v17. Ishmael will become a great nation, but will never be part of my covenant with you. Not surprisingly Ishmael and his Muslim descendants have always rejected this truth. So have ungodly nations / leaders down the ages. Anti-Semitism remains rife and God's Word rejected. But as Jesus said, "My Word will never pass away." Lu 2133 |
| Gen 181-15 How did Abraham receive guests? Why? And what was the result? |
He immediately recognises one of the 3 as the Lord. Like Abel he gets the best food and drink for them. Abraham doesn't sit and eat with them, but stood near them under a tree. v8 Again confirms that about this time next year Sarah will have a son. v10 The Lord heard Sarah laugh to herself and says to Abraham (and Sarah) "Is anything too hard for the Lord?" v14 |
| Gen 1816 - 1938 Why did Abraham plead for Sodom? Why did God give us the horrible details of Sodom? |
There is no mention of desire to save Sodom, only to save his nephew Lot. He reduces the plea based on 50 righteous, down to just 10. But not found. God wants us to know the depths of degradation that sodomy leads to; and thus share God's disgust at such evil. Many churchmen in UK including both Archbishops do not share this disgust. Desiring popularity, they think the Bible is wrong; and thus so is God!! The two angels save Lot; but he lost everything by choosing to live in Sodom. Lot warned them, but his sons-in-law thought he was joking. v14 His wife 'looked back' (didn't leave willingly - why not?). His daughters schemed and commit the incest that produce Ammon and Moab. Sin leaves such a horrible trail throughout history - why don't we learn? When God destroyed the cities of the plain, he remembered Abraham. v29 |
| Gen 20 The danger of half-truths. God's protection and unchanged plan. |
Again (Gen 12) Abraham says Sarah was his sister. Actually half-sister. But God still protects her and stops Abimelech who had 'taken her'. When God told him he immediately returns Sarah to Abraham plus sheep and silver. Abraham prayed to God and God healed Abimelech and his family. The Lord Almighty is so gracious and merciful. 2 Tim 213 Mk 1438 |
| Gen 211-7 Why is v2 so important? |
Sarah became pregnant and bore a son to Abraham in his old age, at the very
time God had promised him. v2 It proves that the Lord God is faithful; he always keeps his Word. To Almighty God who created all things, this was a small miracle! So began next 2,000 years of God's plan that would give birth to Messiah. And after a further 2,000 years, we would see the return of Jesus as King, with the establishment of God's eternal righteous kingdom. It doesn't get more important than that!! |
| Gen218-21 Why is our joy on earth so often challenged? |
Ishmael (now 16) 'mocked' Isaac (just weaned at 2). The prophesied (Gen 1612) strife began - and it would never cease. Hagar and Ishmael are sent away. God reminded the distressed Abraham that this son would also become a great nation - and later the violent Islam came from Ishmael. Our sinful nature ensures that even within the Church harmony is rare. O Lord, please may your peace, truth and righteousness come soon, and end all our squabbles and deceptions. |
| Gen 2122-34 Was Abraham right to make a treaty with Abimelech? Could they trust each other to keep it? |
Abimelech saw that "God is with you in everything you do." v22 And thus
wanted peace. But Abimelech's men had seized a well that Abraham had dug. Abraham agreed to treaty and gave Abimelech 7 ewe lams as a token and witness that the well at Beersheba belonged to Abraham, who also planted a tamarisk tree. Abraham stayed in the land of the Philistines for a long time. (Beersheba is about 30 SW of Hebron. Jewish population now ~200,000 and it is a centre for Israel's high-tech industry). By faith he made his home in the promised land like a stranger in a foreign country; ... For he was looking forward to the city with foundations, whose architect and builder is God. Heb 119,10 Abraham was a righteous man who knew it would be at least 400 years before Israel would return to conquer the land. Gen 1513-16 |
| Gen 22 How did God test Abraham? What enabled him to stand? Why was this test so significant? |
God calls, "Abraham!" And Abraham responds, "Here I am." This simple response implies a readiness to do whatever God tells him. But he was not expecting the extreme instruction, "Take your son , your only son, Isaac, whom you love, and go to the region of Moriah. Sacrifice him there as a burnt offering." Amazingly Abraham did not question this, but immediately obeyed. Abraham reasoned that God could raise the dead, and figuratively speaking, he did receive Isaac back from death. Heb 1119 God refers Isaac as being Abraham's 'only son, whom you love'. This event foretells most clearly what God and his Son had to do to redeem us. Mt Moriah would also be where Solomon built the Temple. 2 Ch 31 Is 22 Isaac asks "The fire and wood are here, but where is the lamb for the burnt offering?" Abraham replies prophetically, "God himself will provide the lamb for the burnt offering, my son." And he did indeed - both the ram in place of Isaac, and Jesus, the lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world. Jn 129 It should be noted well that the young man Isaac was willing to be bound. Also, Abraham called that place The Lord Will Provide - not has provided. Because Abraham was obedient throughout this amazing event, God reminded him (Gen 122,3 173-8) of his everlasting Covenant: "Because you have done this and have not withheld your son, your only son, I will surely bless you and make your descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky and as the sand on the seashore. Your descendants will take possession of the cities of their enemies, and through your offspring all nations on earth will be blessed, because you have obeyed me." v16-18 Because God did not withhold his Son who was willing to die in our place, we can be set free from sin - from its just punishment, for Jesus is the propitiation for our sins. 1 Jn 22 410 Ro 325 (KJV) No ram sacrifice is sufficient to take away my sin; however sincerely offered; only Jesus could be the full, perfect and sufficient sacrifice. We may ask why, but this is what Almighty God has decreed. The Law was never intended to be sufficient. Heb 620 716,18, 24,25 912,14,22 1014,19 1224 etc |
| Gen 23 Why did Abraham insist on buying the land? |
Abraham had the military power to take the land, but he wanted to ensure that
the burial site for Sarah at Hebron would be properly and permanently
recognised as his by the Hittites. Land gained by power alone will usually be
contested for centuries afterwards. Abraham again remembered the revelation
by God that the promised land gift would not become a reality for 400 years.
He did not want the sacred burial ground to be contested during this time. Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Rebekah and Leah were all buried there. Because Muslims built a mosque there, the land is hotly disputed today. |
| Gen 24 What was Abraham's chief concern for Isaac's wife? And why? |
Abraham was determined that Isaac should not marry a Canaanite. They
worshipped evil gods and would draw Isaac away from the Lord Almighty. Esau
married two Hittite wives - They were a source of grief to Isaac and Rebekah.
Gen 2635 (and 2746) 1,000 years later Solomon made the same mistake. The Lord became angry with Solomon because his heart had turned away from the Lord. 1 Kgs 111-13 Abraham was wise and righteous in his determination, and his chief servant did a good job in securing Rebekah as wife for Isaac. The test that she would offer to water Abraham's 10 camels was good. Isaac married Rebekah. So she became his wife, and he loved her; and Isaac was comforted after his mother's death. Many sons and daughters of Christian parents have foolishly ignored this story and their parents advice, and consequently paid a high price. |
| Gen 251-11, 19-34 When Abraham died, what was the most important thing he left? |
He died a very rich man with many servants and animals and was highly
respected by the local kings. Abraham left everything he owned to Isaac. He died 5 years before the birth of Jacob and Esau. But by far the most important thing he passed on to Isaac was the eternal covenant that God had made with him. It was this 'birthright' that Isaac's son Esau despised and sold to Jacob for a bowl of stew! v29-34. Jacob treasured it and never received any of Isaac's wealth which Esau grabbed when Jacob fled to Laban (Esau ignored the oath he had made with Jacob). God's verdict was: "Jacob I loved, but Esau I hated." Mal 12,3 Ro 913 Heb 1216,17 Esau's sorrow at his loss did not include any sign of repentance. 2 Co 710 Then Jesus said to his disciples, ... "What good will it be for a man if he gains the whole world, yet forfeits his soul?" Math 2424,26 Abraham was called a friend of God. Is 418 ; a man of faith Gal 39 If you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham's seed. Gal 329 |
| Gen 2512-18 Ishmael |
Ishmael lived 137 years. ... his descendants settled in the area from Havilah to Shur, near the border of Egypt ... And they lived in hostility toward all their brothers. Thus began the fulfilling of the prophecy in Gen 1612 |
| Gen 26 Isaac and Abimelech (Philistine king) |
Famine caused Isaac to move 20 miles west to Gerar. The Lord tells him not to
go down to Egypt and confirms his covenant blessing, descendants and land. Stays in Gerar. But like Abraham he told Abimelech that Rebekah was his sister. Only confessed truth when seen caressing her. Abimelech then protects them. Isaac soon became very wealthy. Philistines jealous, stopped up his wells. Told to move away. Isaac moved, dug new wells which they also stopped up. Makes oath of peace with Abimelech. Isaac returns to Beersheba, where he again found water (uncontested). |
| Gen 27 Family love divided Who treasured God’s covenant? |
This is a very real story of family intrigue; no one comes out of it very well. Isaac favoured Esau, Rebekah favoured Jacob. No one had told Isaac that Esau had sold his birthright, or if they had, he chose to ignore it. Following his mother's instructions Jacob needed little encouragement to lie and cheat in order to inherit the blessing he longed for. Although his prime desire was for the covenant blessing, not the multitude of sheep and possessions, was commendable, this does not justify his dubious method. Isaac also 'blessed' Esau - "Your dwelling will be away from the earth's richness, away from the dew of heaven above. You will live by the sword and you will serve your brother ..." This truth made Esau plan murder! Jacob had to flee to Laban for 20 years with only the clothes he was wearing. |
| Gen 28 Isaac Blesses Jacob again, why? God confirms his covenant with Jacob; |
Rebekah plans the excuse to send Jacob to Laban to find a non-Canaanite wife, and
thus escape the murderous threats of the angry Esau. She knew Isaac would agree to this; and he did. he even blesses Jacob again. Jealous Esau tries to gain favour by marrying Ishmael's grand-daughter. Jacob leaves alone, with only his clothes and his wit - and his longing for God. The Lord came and spoke to him in a dream at Bethel: "I am the Lord, the God of your father Abraham and the God of Isaac. I will give you and your descendants the land on which you are lying. Your descendants will be like the dust of the earth, and you will spread out to the west and to the east, to the north and to the south. All peoples on earth will be blessed through you and your offspring. I am with you and will watch over you wherever you go, and I will bring you back to this land. I will not leave you until I have done what I have promised you." Jacob's response is to offer God 10% of the blessings - if God keeps his word!! Were the whole realm of nature mine, that were an offering far too small; Love so amazing, so divine, demands mu soul, my life, my all. But Almighty God is not offended; such is his grace and generosity. Note: The ladder up to heaven is not for men to climb, but to confirm God's angelic activity in blessing his creation - especially Jacob! |
| Gen 291-14 How and why does Almighty God intervene in the affairs of men? |
Jacob walks ~500 miles to Haran and meets his uncle Laban's daughter, who
happens to be a shepherdess! Such coincidences are not just chance! (also Abraham's servant finds Rebekah, and Moses and Aaron meet in desert) Each of the 4 flocks of sheep knew their shepherd, they didn't get muddled up. Jacob moves the well stone (with help from other 3) and waters Rachel's sheep, As Rebekah had watered Abraham's servants camels. Then Jacob kissed Rachel and wept. To be mentioned in this account, it was obviously a significant kiss! As part of God's plan it would deeply affect world history. |
| Gen 2915 - 3023 20 years of Jacob's family history |
Through all Laban's trickery God never left him alone. 3142 Two wives + the two maidservants as wives did not make for a happy home. See Gen 50 for Jacob's prophecy concerning his 12 sons. Leah - Reuben, Simeon, Levi, Judah. Then Bilhah (R) - Dan, Naphtali. Then Zilpah (L) -Gad, Asher. Then Leah - Issachar, Zebuun. And finally Rachel - Joseph (Ephraim + Manassah), Benjamin. Men seldom seek the Lord's plan and rarely obey it. But through it all: In his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord determines his steps. Prov 169 In spite of all the trickery of both Laban and Jacob and his wives' jealousy, God's plan never missed a single beat! George Verwer calls it 'Messiology'. |
| Gen 3025 - 3155 Jacob's 'deal' with Laban - was it good or bad? God intervenes with justice. |
Under Jacob's shepherding the Lord had greatly prospered Laban. Jacob now wants to work for himself and they agree a 'deal' that all the speckled lambs would from now on become Jacob's. Typically Laban immediately puts all the speckled goats under his sons care and separates them by a 3 day journey. But the Lord God ensured that all the strong lambs were speckled, and so became Jacob's property. Laban was not pleased! Laban had cheated Jacob and changed his wages 10 times (317,41). But God had fulfilled his covenant with Abraham that anyone who cursed him would himself be cursed. Gen 123 And it was all part of God's promised plan for Jacob: Then the Lord said to Jacob, "Go back to the land of your fathers and to your relatives, and I will be with you." Jacob obeyed (when Laban had gone to sheer his sheep). Very foolishly Rachel stole her father's household gods. And didn't tell Jacob. Laban pursues Jacob, but doesn't find his gods. (Rachel deceived him). Laban said, "Last night the God of your father said to me, 'Be careful not to say anything to Jacob, either good or bad'." So Jacob and Laban make pact not to pass the stone pillar to attack the other. So Jacob took an oath in the name of the Fear of his father Isaac. The polytheist Laban said, "May the God of Abraham and the God of Nahor, the God of their father, judge between us." And he returned home. |
| Gen 32,33 Jacob wanted to avert Esau's revenge. Peniel. How was Esau pacified so easily? Why did Jacob want to remain separate? |
God first sends a company of angels to meet Jacob. Did they instruct him? Jacob sends message to Esau who responds by coming to meet him with 400 men. Jacob in great fear, divides his flocks. Then prays - with promise of God. Sends succession of 3 gifts of flocks as gift to Esau to pacify him. It does! Jacob was left alone, and a man wrestled with him till daybreak. Once more Jacob shows his determination to secure God's blessing: "I will not let you go unless you bless me." Jacob did not let go of God, neither did God let go of Jacob. Esau was hungry for stew; Jacob was always hungry for God. Joel 232 Ps 421,2 The 'man' changed his name from Jacob to Israel. Then he blessed him there. So Jacob called the place Peniel, saying, "It is because I saw God face to face, and yet my life was spared." Jacob limped for the rest of his life; but he knew the reality of God's blessing. Esau pacified by gifts and being called 'my Lord'. Jacob insisted that Esau accept the gifts even if didn't need them as reminder that Jacob did not return to inherit Isaac's possessions. Wisely and tactfully insisted he remain separate from Esau. Esau returned to Seir. Jacob settled at Succoth and then bought land at Shechem. |
| Gen 34 Jacob's sons replied deceitfully, Were they right to do so? |
Shechem had raped Dinah, the daughter of Leah. Jacob's sons were determined upon revenge / justice. They agreed to let him marry her on condition that all the men of Shechem were circumcised. They agreed. On third day, when sore, they attacked and killed all the men and retrieved Dinah. Jacob rightly rebuked them, but it is not recorded what he may have said they should have done. |
| Gen 351-15 What was Jacob's response to God's instruction to go to Bethel? |
So Jacob said to his household and to all who were with him, "Get rid of the
foreign gods you have with you." Had Jacob found out about Rachel's gods? It seems all his sons and household had foreign gods. How quickly this happens. They obeyed and Jacob buried them at Shechem. Then they journeyed to Bethel (20 miles south). Jacob renamed Luz, El Bethel, and built an altar as instructed. God blesses Jacob, he confirms his name change from Jacob to Israel, and confirms descendants. Almighty God also affirms his gift of the land. Having been blessed by God you might expect Jacob's life to be easier - but it was not. Rachel dies giving birth to Benjamin. Jacob's sons sell Joseph to Midianites and then pretend he had been killed. Famine drives Jacob to Egypt where he discovers Joseph and his sons treachery. He only returns in a coffin! But Jacob remains faithful to Almighty God. See prophecy in Gen 49. |
| Gen 3516-29 Jacob continues south. |
Near Ephrath (Bethlehem) Rachel dies giving birth to Benjamin. Jacob moves on southwards to Hebron, and his father Isaac. Isaac dies at 180. Buried by Esau and Jacob. |
| Gen 36 Esau's descendants |
Most significant concerning Israel's future are Amalek and the Edomites. Both are no more - and, as promised, those who curse Israel will be cursed. Both were enemies of God and of Israel - as indeed were also sons of Ishmael. |
| Gen 37 Why does Scripture say this is the account of Jacob, when it tells the story of Joseph? Jealousy is not a new sin! |
Benjamin was also a son of Rachel and born in his old age. Yet Israel loved
Joseph more than any of his other sons. It was not a happy family. Joseph gave
Jacob a bad report about his brothers who tended his flocks. And Joseph had
dreams (which later proved true) - which nobody liked. His brothers decide on
murder, but revise it because they gained more by selling him as a slave to Midianite
traders. They pretended he had been killed by a ferocious animal because they
'found' his blood soaked coat of many colours. Jacob mourned and tore his
clothes. Chapter ends with Joseph being sold on to one of Pharaoh's officials. What none of them knew, but Almighty God knew and planned that this slave would become Egypt's PM and would enable the Pharaoh to gain complete control over the whole country. |
| Gen 38-47 These next 10 chapters tell this story in detail. What do we learn from it. |
1. Almighty God always has his hand upon his creation. Sometimes we need patience, perseverance, trust, expectancy ... 2. The power and sovereignty of God. Many are the plans in a man's heart, but it is the Lord's purpose that prevails. Prov 1921 (Also Prov 169 Act 428) 3. See events from God's perspective: God sent me ahead of you to preserve for you a remnant on earth and to save your lives by a great deliverance. So then, it was not you who sent me here, but God. 457,8 Joseph said to them, "Don't be afraid. Am I in the place of God? You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives. So then, don't be afraid. I will provide for you and your children." And he reassured them and spoke kindly to them." 5019-21 Revenge is never sweet. Like Jesus, Joseph here displays a good example of grace and forgiveness. "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do." Lu 2334 4. Joseph did not yield to the continuous temptations by Potiphar's wife. Unjustly imprisoned. But the Lord was with him and showed him kindness. A very similar unfolding of God's plan would be revealed 1,000 years later when Daniel, the teen-age Jewish exile who became the PM of Babylon under Nebuchadnezzar and also under Darius the Mede. Joseph and Daniel would both interpret and be given accurate dreams/visions by God. Throughout history our gracious God has raised up prophets to reveal the truth that he wants men to know - historical truth and truth about future events. He does this with such care because it is important, so valuable to his people. Why do so many, even Christians, either ignore or distort such revelation? Because Jesus said we are not given the time or the dates the Father has set, this does not mean we can safely forget all about preparing for his return. |
| Gen 4727 - 50 How did Jacob prepare for his death? |
Jacob's family settled in Goshen and were fruitful. Jacob lived 17 years there. He made Joseph swear he would bury him in Hebron, not in Egypt. And Israel worshipped as he leaned on the top of his staff. Jacob blessed Joseph's younger son Ephraim ahead of Manasseh. Then Israel said to Joseph, "I am about to die, but God will be with you and take you back to the land of your fathers ..." In 49 there is detailed prophetic vision concerning each of his 12 sons. The sceptre will not depart from Judah, nor the ruler's staff from between his feet, until he comes to whom it belongs. Jesus has and will fulfill this. Joseph embalmed Jacob and mourned for 70 days. Then Pharaoh allowed him to take Jacob to be buried in Hebron with Abraham, Sarah, Isaac, Rebekah and Leah. Joseph assures his brothers of his forgiveness. Before Joseph dies first reminds them:"I am about to die. But God will surely come to your aid and take you up out of this land to the land he promised on oath to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob." Then he made them swear they wouldcarry my bones up from this place. Moses carried his bones out of Egypt. Exd 1319 And Joshua buried Joseph's bones at Shechem. Josh 2432 |
Exodus [Contents]
The three most important events in the history/future of the Jews are:
1. God choosing Abraham and making an unconditional, eternal covenant with him and his descendants.
2. God fulfilling his promise to send his Son to earth to be crucified and thus redeem sinful men.
3. We await the promised return to earth of Christ to judge all wickedness and establish his righteous kingdom.
Genesis ends with the Jews in Egypt and Joseph telling them: "I am about to die. But God will surely come to your aid and take you up out of this land to the land he promised on oath to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob." Gen 5024
Exodus starts with the Jews enslaved in Egypt (400 years later), and recounts how Almighty God fulfilled this promise.
It is a 'roller-coaster ride' that reveals the extent of his amazing grace and mercy.
In this book is revealed that the Creator of everything is also the Redeemer of a few.
Another vitally important revelation in this book is that redemption by the Lord came before the Law.
This is opposite to what is often taught; that it is by keeping the Law that we can become righteous.
This is the opposite to what is often taught; that it is by keeping the Law that a man can become righteous.
God gave us the Law to reveal what our Maker tells us is the best way for man to live.
Since no man is able to keep it, even if willing, we all need to call upon Christ as our Redeemer. Gal 324
| Exodus 11-22 Jews enslaved; but God is kind |
The Pharaoh that made Joseph ruler was Phoenician. Their dynasty was soon replaced by the Egyptian Hyksos rulers who enslaved all the 'foreign' Jews. This Pharaoh was also afraid that the rapidly rising number of Jewish men in Goshen would join his enemies, fight against us and leave the country. He didn't want to lose his slaves, so he decided to kill all the male babies born to the Jews (he would still have female slaves). But God was kind to the midwives, who said they always arrived too late to kill the male children! The Jewish people increased and became even more numerous. And because the midwives feared God, he gave them families of their own. |
| Exodus 21-10 Birth of 'no ordinary child' (and 76) |
Amram and Jochebed were Levites. They knew what God had said to Abraham: "Know for certain that your descendants will be strangers in a country not their own, and they will be enslaved and mistreated four hundred years. But I will punish the nation they serve as slaves, and afterward they will come out." They were counting the years. After their first two children were born (Aaron and Miriam) they knew the time had come. They 'saw' that #3, Moses, was no ordinary child. Act 720 Heb 1123 And God also revealed a plan to save his life. It used the fact that no young woman can see a crying baby and do nothing, not even Pharaoh's daughter. Young Miriam had been briefed by her parents so she asked her, "Shall I go and get one of the Hebrew women to nurse the baby for you?" And off she went to fetch a 'suitable' woman (her own and the baby's mother!) to nurse Moses. What a great plan! But then God's plans always are great, and they work far better than clockwork! So Moses became the son of Pharaoh's daughter; not killed at birth and not a slave. |
| Exodus 211-25 Moses is Trained in Midian |
Jochebed gave her son a good training in Pharaoh's court. The Babe knew well that he was Jewish, not Egyptian - even if he wore Egyptian clothes and spoke their language. One day when he saw an Egyptian beating a Hebrew he seized the opportunity to kill the Egyptian. But the news quickly went viral and he had to flee for his life to Midian. There he became a shepherd for Jethro for 40 years, married his daughter and learned much about how to survive in the desert. There he reflected on his foolish act of murder. This training was most useful in the next part of God's plan for his life in leading the Israelites for 40 years in Sinai. In all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. Ro 828 All of Moses' life was Known and planned by Almighty God. |
| Exodus 31-6 "Moses, Moses!" |
As Jethro's shepherd, Moses had led the flock to the far side of the desert and came to Horeb, the mountain of God. There the angel of the Lord appeared to him in flames of fire from within a bush. But the bush was not consumed. Drawn by curiosity he went to investigate. There he heard God call his name. He was told to take off his sandals because he stood on holy ground. Then God introduced himself: "I am the God of your father, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac and the God of Jacob." This was all a bit sudden. Not surprisingly, Moses was afraid and hid his face. What Almighty God would tell this man, 40 years a fugitive in the desert, would shock even the strongest. |
| Exodus 37-23 God's Instruction and promise |
Almighty God reveals his plan to Moses. The Lord said, "I have indeed seen the misery of my people in Egypt. I have heard them crying out because of their slave drivers, and I am concerned about their suffering. So I have come down to rescue them from the hand of the Egyptians and to bring them up out of that land into a good and spacious land, a land flowing with milk and honey. ... So now, go. I am sending you to Pharaoh to bring my people the Israelites out of Egypt." Simple! Moses didn't think so; he still had much to learn. |
| Moses' questions | God's answers | |
| Who am I ...? | I will be with you. | |
| Suppose I go to the Israelites ... and they ask me, 'What is his name?' Then what shall I tell them? |
I am who I am. Say 'I am has sent me to you.' ... And I have promised to bring you up out of your misery in Egypt. ... The elders of Israel will listen to you ... But I know that the king of Egypt will not let you go unless a mighty hand compels him. So I will stretch out my hand and strike the Egyptians ... After that, he will let you go. | |
| What if they do not believe me? | Moses staff became a snake. When picked up by tail it became his staff. Moses puts hand in cloak, became leprous. Then again and it was restored healthy. If still not believed pour water from Nile on dry ground; it will become blood. |
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| I have never been eloquent | I will help you speak | |
| Please send someone else | Then the Lord's anger burned against Moses. ... Aaron is already on his way to meet you, and his heart will be glad when he sees you. You shall speak to him and put words in his mouth; I will help both of you speak and will teach you what to do. |
| At last Moses complies with God's instruction to go back to Egypt. He tells Jethro, who said, "Go, and I wish you well." God assures him, "All the men who wanted to kill you are dead." Moses sets off for Egypt with his wife and with the staff of God in his hand. God tells him: "Say to Pharaoh, 'This is what the Lord says: Israel is my firstborn son', and I told you, 'Let my son go, so he may worship me.' But you refused to let him go; so I will kill your firstborn son." |
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| Exodus 427-31 Aaron meets Moses at Horab |
Aaron had been sent by God to meet Moses (427). A journey of ~ 750 miles. Significantly they meet at Horeb, on the Mountain of the Lord. Moses tells his elder brother all that the Lord had said. And they believed ... And worshipped. They journey together to Egypt to fulfill all that God had promised the Israelites. |
| Exodus 51 - 61 Moses and Aaron present Pharaoh with Almighty God's plan. |
This is what the Lord, the God of Israel, says: 'Let my people go ...' But Pharaoh scorned, "Who is the Lord, that I should obey him and let Israel go? I do not know the Lord and I will not let Israel go." Such arrogant blasphemy was met with the true revealed consequences; refusal would result in plagues or with the sword. (In the hand of an angel who finally killed all the firstborn of Egypt.) In the typically vain attempt to prove his power, Pharaoh instructed that the Israelite slaves would have to gather their own straw yet make the same number of bricks. Their failure to do so resulted in their being beaten. The Israelites complained to Moses, and Moses complained to God. Then the Lord said to Moses, "Now you will see what I will do to Pharaoh ..." |
| Exodus 62-12, 26-30 God repeats his promised plan |
I am the Lord. I appeared to Abraham, to Isaac and to Jacob as God Almighty ... I also established my covenant with them to give them the land of Canaan ... I have heard the groaning of the Israelites ... and I have remembered my covenant. I am the Lord, and I will bring you out from under the yoke of the Egyptians. ... I will redeem you with an outstretched arm and with mighty acts of judgment. I will take you as my own people, and I will be your God. Then you will know that I am the Lord your God ... I will bring you to the land I swore with uplifted hand ... I will give it to you as a possession. I am the Lord. When Moses told the Israelites all this, they were not impressed because of the cruel bondage. The Lord did not condemn them for this; neither did he change his plan. Then the Lord said to Moses, "Go, tell Pharaoh king of Egypt to let the Israelites go out of his country." But Moses said to the Lord, "If the Israelites will not listen to me, why would Pharaoh listen to me." |
| Exodus 71-13 Initial battle with Pharaoh |
Then the Lord said to Moses, "See, I have made you like God to Pharaoh, and your brother Aaron will be your prophet. ... But I will harden Pharaoh's heart, and though I multiply my miraculous signs and wonders in Egypt, he will not listen to you. Then I will lay my hand on Egypt and with mighty acts of judgment I will bring out my divisions, my people the Israelites. And the Egyptians will know that I am the Lord. Almighty God is going to judge Egypt and will win the battle. He then sets the stage. The Lord said to Moses and Aaron, "When Pharaoh says to you, 'Perform a miracle,' then say to Aaron, 'Take your staff and throw it down before Pharaoh,' and it will become a snake." They did so. Surprisingly the Egyptian magicians also did the same things by their secret arts. But Aaron's staff swallowed up their staffs. Yet Pharaoh's heart became hard and he would not listen to them, just as the Lord had said. How different from the reaction of Nebuchadnezzar in Dan 3, when he saw the power of God in the 'fiery furnace'. Pharaoh would go on to see 10 more and even greater signs, but he would remain stubborn to the end. Very foolish. How will men today react to the hand of Almighty God? Who will believe the truth he has revealed in his Word? And why? or why not? |
| Exodus 714 - 118 First 9 Plagues on Egypt |
1. Nile water becomes blood - undrinkable. 2. Frogs (7 days later) 3. Gnats First 2 plagues were replicated by the Egyptian magicians. But now they said, "This is the finger of God." 4. Flies. This and rest of plagues did not affect Israelites in Goshen. 5. Livestock in Egypt became dead stock! 6. Festering Boils. After first 5 plagues Pharaoh hardened his own heart. Now the Lord hardened Pharaoh's heart. 7. Huge Hail stones. 8. Locusts. Egyptians pleaded with Pharaoh to let Israelites go. Nothing green left in Egypt. But the Lord hardened Pharaoh's heart. 9. Darkness. But the Lord hardened Pharaoh's heart, and he was not willing to let them go. Pharaoh said to Moses, "Get out of my sight! Make sure you do not appear before me again! The day you see my face you will die." But before leaving Moses said, "This is what the Lord says: 'About midnight I will go throughout Egypt. Every firstborn son in Egypt will die ... But among the Israelites not a dog will bark at any man or animal.' ..." Then Moses, hot with anger, left Pharaoh. God told Moses to tell Israelites to ask Egyptian neighbours for gold and valuables. And The Lord made the Egyptians favourably disposed toward the people. So they gave abundantly. A small reward for centuries of slavery ! "I will bring one more plague on Pharaoh and on Egypt. After that, he will let you go from here, and when he does, he will drive you out completely." |
| Exodus 119 - 1228 The Lord gives Instructions for Passover. |
The Lord had said to Moses, "Pharaoh will refuse to listen to you–so that my wonders may be multiplied in Egypt." ... the Lord hardened Pharaoh's heart, and he would not let the Israelites go out of his country.
From the beginning the Lord intended to make Passover and annual remembrance. Tell the whole community of Israel that on the tenth day of this month each man is to take a lamb for his family ... a year-old males without defect ... slaughter them at twilight ... take some of the blood and put it on the sides and tops of the doorframes of the houses ... eat the meat roasted over the fire, along with bitter herbs, and bread made without yeast. ... Do not leave any of it till morning ... Eat it in haste; it is the Lord's Passover. On that same night I will pass through Egypt and strike down every firstborn–both men and animals–and I will bring judgment on all the gods of Egypt. I am the Lord. The blood will be a sign for you on the houses where you are; and when I see the blood, I will pass over you. No destructive plague will touch you when I strike Egypt. For the generations to come you shall celebrate it as a festival to the Lord–a lasting ordinance. Celebrate the Feast of Unleavened Bread, ... for 7 days. On this occasion the Israelites did just what the Lord commanded. |
| Exodus 1229-40 God delivered Israel from Egypt |
10. Death of all first-born or Passover. At midnight the Lord struck down all the firstborn in Egypt ... During the night Pharaoh summoned Moses and Aaron and said, "Up! Leave my people, you and the Israelites! Go, worship the Lord as you have requested. Take your flocks and herds, as you have said, and go. And also bless me." But Moses did not bless the unrepentant Pharaoh. The Egyptians urged the people to hurry and leave the country. ... The Lord had made the Egyptians favourably disposed toward the people, and they gave them what they asked for; so they plundered the Egyptians. The Israelites journeyed from Rameses to Succoth. There were about six hundred thousand men on foot, besides women and children. ... The Israelite people lived in Egypt was 430 years. At the end of the 430 years, to the very day, all the Lord's divisions left Egypt. Because the Lord kept vigil that night to bring them out of Egypt.(of course he did), on this night all the Israelites are to keep vigil to honour the Lord for the generations to come. |
| Exodus 1242 - 13 Additional regulations |
No foreigner is to eat of it. Any slave you have bought may eat of it after you have circumcised him. Passover is thus specifically a Jewish feast. In days to come, when your son asks you, 'What does this mean?' say to him, 'With a mighty hand the Lord brought us out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery.' Gentiles are invited to Passover provided they are circumcised in heart. Ro 228,29 We remember the Lord delivered us from the slavery of sin by the crucified Lamb. |
| Exodus 1317-22 Israel led by the Lord |
When Pharaoh let the people go, God did not lead them on the road through the Philistine country, though that was shorter ... God led them towards the Red Sea. Although The Israelites went up out of Egypt armed for battle. God knew they were not yet ready to face the Philistines. Moses took the bones of Joseph with him. This was important. How did God lead them? By day the Lord went ahead of them in a pillar of cloud ... and by night in a pillar of fire to give them light. For all the next 40 years. |
| Exodus 141-31 One of God's great miracles at the Red Sea |
God led them specifically to camp by the sea. He would harden Pharaoh's heart so that his whole army with 600 best chariots would chase after the Israelites. Moses told the terrified Israelites, "Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the Lord will bring you today. The Egyptians you see today you will never see again. The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still." The Lord told Moses how to divide the sea with his stretched out staff! The angel of the Lord moved to behind Israel, so darkness divided Israel and Egypt. All that night the Lord drove the sea back with a strong east wind and turned it into dry land. The waters were divided, and the Israelites went through the sea on dry ground, with a wall of water on their right and on their left. The Egyptians pursued them ... their chariots come off ... confusion ... The Lord said to Moses, "Stretch out your hand over the sea so that the waters may flow back over the Egyptians and their chariots and horsemen." The Lord swept them into the sea ... Not one of them survived. ... and Israel saw the Egyptians lying dead on the shore. When the Israelites saw the great power the Lord displayed against the Egyptians, the people feared the Lord and put their trust in him and in Moses his servant. It was a mighty event that the Israelites would never forget. Every generation of Jews have celebrated the greatness of God, his mercy and kindness at Passover and the Red Sea crossing every year for the last 3,400 years. And with good reason! |
| Exodus 151-21 A time for singing and dancing! |
The song of Moses: "I will sing to the Lord, for he is highly exalted. The horse and its rider he has hurled into the sea. The Lord is my strength and my song; he has become my salvation. He is my God, and I will praise him, my father's God, and I will exalt him. ... In your unfailing love you will lead the people you have redeemed. In your strength you will guide them to your holy dwelling. The nations will hear and tremble; anguish will grip the people of Philistia. ... The Lord will reign for ever and ever." Then Miriam the prophetess, Aaron's sister, took a tambourine in her hand, and all the women followed her, with tambourines and dancing. Miriam sang to them: "Sing to the Lord, for he is highly exalted. The horse and its rider he has hurled into the sea." It was a day of such national rejoicing rarely, if ever, seen on earth. But it did not last. However in heaven it will never cease. |
| Exodus 1522-26 Water at Marah bitter |
After the Red Sea, Moses had to lead the Israelites into the desert of Shur. But after 3 days they found water at Marah, but it was bitter. They grumbled. Moses cried out to the Lord, and the Lord showed him a piece of wood. He threw it into the water, and the water became sweet. Then the Lord made a promise: "If you listen carefully to the voice of the Lord your God and do what is right in his eyes, if you pay attention to his commands and keep all his decrees, I will not bring on you any of the diseases I brought on the Egyptians, for I am the Lord, who heals you." Crossing the desert was going to be a tough training ground for the 2 million Jews, young and old and all their herds |
| Exodus 1522-26 12 springs at Elim |
There were twelve springs and seventy palm trees. Only the hand of God could have made this normally limited supply sufficient. |
| Exodus 161-36 Manna and Quail |
They set out to cross the desert of Sin, between Elim and Sinai. Very soon they were grumbling again; this time for food. The Lord said to Moses, "I will rain down bread from heaven for you. The people are to go out each day and gather enough for that day. In this way I will test them ... On the sixth day they are to ... bring in ... twice as much." The Lord said to Moses, "I have heard the grumbling of the Israelites. Tell them, 'At twilight you will eat meat, and in the morning you will be filled with bread. Then you will know that I am the Lord your God.' " That evening quail came and covered the camp, and in the morning there was a layer of dew around the camp. When the dew was gone, thin flakes like frost on the ground appeared on the desert floor. Manna. Each one gathered as much as he needed. Then Moses said to them, "No one is to keep any of it until morning." But some disobeyed and what they kept was full of maggots in the morning. On the sixth day they gathered twice the amount and it did not go bad. But some went out on the Sabbath to gather manna, but there was none. The manna was white like coriander seed and tasted like wafers made with honey. Moses commanded that an Omer of manna be put in a jar and kept to show future generations. And it did not go bad. The Israelites ate manna forty years, until they came ... to the border of Canaan. |
| Exodus 171-17 Water - again! |
In the desert water will always remain a major problem. It was for the Israelites. They camped at Rephidim, but there was no water. So they quarrelled with Moses. Moses replied, "... Why do you put the Lord to the test?" The Lord answered Moses, "... Strike the rock, and water will come out of it." And it did. Enough for 2 million people + their herds! Moses called the place Massah and Meribah because the Israelites quarrelled and because they tested the Lord saying, "Is the Lord among us or not?" At Meribah the Lord once more proved his grace and power and presence. Jesus said to Thomas, "Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed." Jn 2029 |
| Exodus 178-16 The Amalekites Attack |
The Amalekites came and attacked the Israelites at Rephidim. So Joshua fought the Amalekites as Moses had ordered, and Moses, Aaron and Hur went to the top of the hill. And prayed. As long as Moses held up his hands, the Israelites were winning. So Aaron and Hur held up his hands while Moses sat on a stone. So Joshua overcame the Amalekite army with the sword. Almighty God declared that he would completely blot out the memory of Amalek. To attack God's chosen people, especially when vulnerable, is Satanically inspired, and thus has a high penalty. As Herod, Hitler and others also found to their cost. Today many nations hate the Jews. In God's time, they too will pay. At the end all the world's nations will attack Jerusalem, and pay the same price as Amalek. Zech 12 and 14. Moses built an altar and called it The Lord is my Banner. Saul lost his crown because he spared Agag after defeating the Amalekite army. David defeated the Amalekites who attacked Ziklag, but some escaped. It was not until Hezekiah's day that Simeon destroyed the last remaining Amalekites. 1 Ch 443 |
| Exodus 181-27 Jethro Visits Moses |
Jethro heard of everything God had done for Moses and for his people Israel, and how the Lord had brought Israel out of Egypt. So he went to see Moses, with Moses' wife and 2 children, when Israel was camped near the mountain of God. Jethro was delighted to hear about all the good things the Lord had done for Israel in rescuing them from the hand of the Egyptians. ... Now I know that the Lord is greater than all other gods. When Jethro saw how much time Moses had to spend settling disputes he advised Moses to deputise some of this work to capable, honest men. And Moses acted upon this advice. As it says in Num 123 Moses was very meek, more than all people who were on the face of the earth. Meekness is good, not weakness, and it is still rare. |
| Exodus 191-25 God calls Moses on Mt Sinai |
After exactly 2 months the Israelites came to the desert of Sinai. God called Moses up the mountain and said, "Now if you obey me fully and keep my covenant, then out of all nations you will be my treasured possession. Although the whole earth is mine, you will be for me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.' These are the words you are to speak to the Israelites." Moses told the people, and they responded, "We will do everything the Lord has said." On the morning of the third day there was thunder and lightning, with a thick cloud over the mountain, and a very loud trumpet blast. Everyone in the camp trembled. ... The Lord descended to the top of Mount Sinai and called Moses to the top of the mountain. So Moses went up. But the people were forbidden to climb the mountain that was set apart as holy. Who may ascend the hill of the Lord? Who may stand in his holy place? He who has clean hands and a pure heart, who does not lift up his soul to an idol or swear by what is false. Ps 243,4 |
Exodus 201-21 I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery.
| 10 Commandments. | So God Commands: | But today in UK |
| 1. No other Gods | To popular acclaim Prince Charles would like to be 'Defender of faiths' not 'the faith'. School curriculum now multi-faith. |
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| 2. No idols | Worshipped for fear or hope of easier richer life. Muslims worship Kaaba stone in Mecca. Humanists worship themselves. New Age, Buddhists and Hindus worship everything. |
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| 3. Not misuse Name of the Lord |
Blasphemy laws now include other religions. Blasphemy now common on TV and generally. |
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| 4. Keep Sabbath holy 7th day Sabbath Remember Creation |
Sabbath replaced by Sunday, now also ignored. Sunday trading and sport legalised. 'Evolution Theory', not Creation taught as truth. |
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| 5. Honour parents | Older generation often despised. Care of the elderly becoming a major problem. Anything new, modern, lively is honoured. |
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| 6. No murder | Abortion legalised in 1967. Now >200,000/yr (2023) Euthanasia may soon be legalised in UK. |
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| 7. No adultery | 'Partnerships' today - only 50% married Easy divorce soon to be law. Influence of TV 'soaps'. Homosexuality legalised 1967 Same sex Marriage Act 2015. |
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| 8. No stealing | No law change. | |
| 9. No false witness | 'Economy of the truth', 'spin' and deceit common. | |
| 10. No coveting neighbour's goods, home, or wife. |
Debt, envy, greed, commercialism. Multi-billion £ advertising for 'economy' and profit. |
| Almighty God is ignored, rejected and blasphemed, and we think it clever to add an 11th Command " Don't be caught!" But God sees everything we do and think; and the day will come when we have to give Him a full account. All believers thank God for his mercy and forgiveness through Christ crucified. Always remember: The law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith. Gal 324 With Christ, we are no longer 'under the law' and its condemnation for disobeying them, but are forgiven. However these are still God's commandments. |
| Exodus 2022-26 No Idols |
The Lord God knew that Israel would not willingly stop making idols; so he warned them again, Do not make for yourselves gods of silver or gods of gold. And If you make an altar of stones for me, do not build it with dressed stones. But foolish men never heed the Word of God. |
| Exodus 211 - 2319 Other Laws |
The Lord gave Moses others laws about: Hebrew servants (willing and unwilling), personal injuries, protection of property, social responsibility, justice and mercy, the Sabbath and the annual festivals. |
| Exodus 2320-33 The Angel of the Lord prepares the way |
See, I am sending an angel ahead of you to guard you along the way and to bring you to the place I have prepared. Pay attention to him and listen to what he says. Do not rebel against him. ... If you listen carefully to what he says ... My angel will go ahead of you and bring you into the land of the Amorites, Hittites, Perizzites, Canaanites, Hivites and Jebusites, and I will wipe them out. The Lord also tells them that the conquest of the promised land would take more than a year and that they were not to make any covenant with them or their gods else their gods will certainly be a snare to you. |
| Exodus 241-18 Moses meets with God alone |
When Moses went and told the people all the Lord's words and laws, they responded with one voice, "Everything the Lord has said we will do." Moses then wrote down everything the Lord had said. The people may have intended to keep God's instructions, but they would fail. And so will all men. No one can be saved by good works, however hard they try. Moses wrote down God's words for every generation to know how best to live. But UK governments in the last 70 years have countered in law 9/10 of God's Commandments. Only 8th - Do not steal - remains unchanged. But with over 3½ million UK theft offences (+8%) in 2018, even this law is widely ignored. Then the Lord said to Moses, "Come up to me on the mountain and stay here, and I will give you the tablets of stone, with the law and commands I have written for their instruction." Moses went up as instructed, alone. And the cloud covered the mountain, and the glory of the Lord settled on Mount Sinai. ... To the Israelites the glory of the Lord looked like a consuming fire. Moses stayed there for 40 days. |
| Exodus 251 - 3118 Laws for the Tabernacle and Priesthood |
Have them make a sanctuary for me, and I will dwell among them. Almighty God reveals the longing of his heart, the reason for his creating the whole universe - that he may dwell with us - as a holy and righteous people. How this could be possible is revealed by the fact that within the Tabernacle was to be the Ark of God's covenant and upon it the Mercy Seat that offered forgiveness of sin. Also within the Tabernacle was the Lampstand - the Light of the World that would reveal God's Word of Truth; and the Altar for sacrifice, that reveals the need for the Cross of Christ by which men may receive full pardon and be given a new life. The priests and all their duties would clearly show that there would one day came a perfect High Priest - the Son of God himself, who would offer the one Perfect Sacrifice. In these 7 chapters God tells Moses the details for the Tabernacle and the Priesthood, but not yet how or when their purpose would be fulfilled. The Jews in Sinai had so much to learn about salvation - and so have all men today. God still says, "How foolish you are, and how slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken!" And he continues, "Beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning himself." Notice that Jesus, when explaining why He had to suffer, begins with Moses. This book that tells us the amazing events of how God rescued and delivered the enslaved Jews from Egypt - and later from sin. When the Lord finished speaking to Moses on Mount Sinai, he gave him the two tablets of the Testimony, the tablets of stone inscribed by the finger of God. This gift of God has profoundly affected the whole world ever since. These 10 Commandments tell men the only and best basis for life on earth. |
| Exodus 3118 - 3235 Israelites make a golden calf |
When the people saw that Moses was so long in coming down from the mountain, they gathered around Aaron and said, "Come, make us gods who will go before us." Aaron was not the first or the last leader to yield to public pressure, even when he knew it was against the specific command of Almighty God. They brought their gold earrings to Aaron and he made it into an idol cast in the shape of a calf, fashioning it with a tool. Then they said, "These are your gods, O Israel, who brought you up out of Egypt." When Aaron saw this, he built an altar in front of the calf and announced, "Tomorrow there will be a festival to the Lord." The people were happy to obey this disgraceful and blasphemous idea of Aaron. They came and offered sacrifices to the Lord. Then they sat down to eat and drink and got up to indulge in revelry. Incredible!! But perhaps no more incredible than Archbishop Welby saying he based his life on the Bible and yet strongly supports homosexuality together with ecumenical advancement with 'multi-error' Rome and multi-faith conferences.
Nothing is hidden from Almighty God. He tells Moses to go back to the people. |
| Exodus 331-23 What next? |
Then the Lord said to Moses, 2Leave this place ... Go up to the land flowing with milk and honey. But I will not go with you, because you are a stiff-necked people and I might destroy you on the way." ... So the Israelites stripped off their ornaments at Mount Horeb. This was a token gesture which did not impress the Lord God. There was no plea for mercy and no cry for forgiveness. Moses pitched a 'tent of meeting' outside the camp. When he entered the tent the pillar of cloud would come down and stay at the entrance, while the Lord spoke with Moses. Joshua was the only one who went with Moses to meet with God. Moses was earnest in his prayer for the people he led. And the Lord said to Moses, "I will do the very thing you have asked, because I am pleased with you and I know you by name." What a privilege to have such a God-desiring leader. Moses also desired to see the glory of the Lord, who told him, "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. But," he said, "you cannot see my face, for no one may see me and live." Down the ages there have been few men who have comprehended the greatness of the glory of Almighty God. One day, when he calls us to see him as he is, we will be far more than amazed! |
| Exodus 341-4 Replacement Tablets |
The Lord said to Moses, "Chisel out two stone tablets like the first ones, and I will write on them the words that were on the first tablets, which you broke." Man broke not only the first tablets, but also the commandments written on them. Now God graciously re-writes the same words again. He is determined that men should know his Commandments for all future generations and that his name is, The LORD. |
| Exodus 345-35 Conditional covenant with Moses |
The Lord came down and stood with Moses and proclaimed, "The Lord, the compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness, maintaining love to thousands, and forgiving wickedness, rebellion and sin. Yet he does not leave the guilty unpunished." Moses again pleads for the Israelites: "O Lord, if I have found favour in your eyes," he said, "then let the Lord go with us. Although this is a stiff-necked people, forgive our wickedness and our sin, and take us as your inheritance." Then the Lord said: "I am making a covenant with you. Before all your people I will do wonders never before done in any nation in all the world. The people you live among will see how awesome is the work that I, the Lord, will do for you. Obey what I command you today. ... The Lord then amplifies his commandments and confirms, "I will drive out nations before you and enlarge your territory, and no one will covet your land when you go up three times each year to appear before the Lord your God." Moses was with the Lord on the mountain for 40 days. His face was radiant when he came down and whenever he went to speak with the Lord. |
| Exodus 351-3 The Sabbath day |
The Lord has commanded, "For six days, work is to be done, but the seventh day shall be your holy day, a Sabbath of rest to the Lord. Whoever does any work on it must be put to death." This reveals the importance the Lord places upon keeping the Sabbath. And man's folly in thinking he can ignore God's command and not be punished. We should remember that the wages of sin is death even if man does not fulfill the proscribed punishment for not keeping the commandment.. Under Constantine, the Catholic Council of Laodicea in 336 AD decreed that the church should worship on Sunday instead of the Jewish Saturday Sabbath. In 1994 UK passed the Sunday Trading Act which virtually discarded God's 4th Commandment and keeping even Sunday as 'a day of rest to the Lord'. Thankfully Almighty God will not be mocked for ever! |
| Exodus 355 - 4038 The Tent of Meeting |
The closing chapters of Exodus give a detailed description of the tabernacle, the Ark, altar, table, cherubim, lampstand, basin, curtains, the priests and their garments. Moses said to the whole Israelite community, "This is what the Lord has commanded: From what you have, take an offering for the Lord. Everyone who is willing is to bring to the Lord an offering of gold, silver and bronze; blue, purple and scarlet yarn and fine linen; goat hair; ram skins dyed red and hides of sea cows ; acacia wood; olive oil for the light; spices for the anointing oil and for the fragrant incense; and onyx stones and other gems to be mounted on the ephod and breastpiece." "All who are skilled among you are to come and make everything the Lord has commanded." The people willingly brought all that was needed; in fact Moses had to tell them to stop because what they already had was more than enough to do all the work. (This included just over a ton of gold! ~£40million) So the Israelites finished all the work as the Lord had commanded Moses. Then the cloud covered the Tent of Meeting, and the glory of the Lord filled the tabernacle. Thus was completed the desire of God when he said, make a sanctuary for me, and I will dwell among them. Exd 258 But it would take more than even such a special tent for the Lord to dwell in the heart of any man and transform his life. All the repeated sacrifices would reveal that there would come a day when the Lamb of God would be sacrificed upon a Cross! evertheless, by the grace of God: In all the travels of the Israelites, whenever the cloud lifted from above the tabernacle, they would set out; but if the cloud did not lift, they did not set out–until the day it lifted. So the cloud of the Lord was over the tabernacle by day, and fire was in the cloud by night, in the sight of all the house of Israel during all their travels. |
Leviticus [Contents]
This seldom read book reveals that:
1 God is both holy and Almighty
2 He gives us the Law that tells us what is right and wrong
3 He graciously shows how he provides atonement for sin.
It is thus part of God’s Word that will reward all who give it the attention it deserves.
| Lev 11-17 Burnt offerings |
The LORD called Moses and spoke to him ... We must first see that the initiative for the Law is entirely from the Lord. His desire is to tell us the very best way to live our lives, the way that pleases him. Proud man often sees it as just restricting his freedom and denying his pleasure seeking ways. The burnt offering must be without blemish - the best, for it is to make atonement for sin. Not like careless Cain, but like Abel who gladly brought his best offering with faith. Gen 43 and Heb 114 He shall bring his offering to the entrance of the tent of meeting that he (not it) may be accepted before the Lord. The priest would then kill the offering and lay it on the wood to be burnt. This would point to Jesus, our High Priest, who laid his own sinless redeeming body on the Cross for us. When the best was offered with faith by those who acknowledged their great need for atonement, it was a pleasing aroma to the Lord. |
| Lev 21-16 Grain offerings |
The symbolism inherent in the grain offering demonstrated both the worshipper’s dedication to God and his gratitude for the Lord’s provision. While Israel was travelling in Sinai, this offering could only be made with bought grain. The flour was always to be unleavened (no time to raise bread at 1st Passover). The ‘memorial’ part of the offering was to be burnt on the altar and the rest was for Aaron and his sons to eat. A grain offering could be made out of duty like Cain’s offering of just ‘some grain’, (nothing special) or it could be out of gratitude to the Lord for his gift of life, forgiveness and provision - like the woman Jesus commended who gave two copper coins. Mk 1241-44 God knows well the attitude of our heart, whether it is selfish or thankful. It is not the quantity but the quality of the gift that matters. Is Almighty God to be honoured or is he to be largely ignored as by proponents of the Evolution Theory? |
| Lev 31-17 Peace offerings |
Peace offerings were made after other offerings for sin to indicate peace with God. As with all offerings it had to be without blemish. The offering was eaten except for all the fat and the blood that was burnt for the Lord. |
| Lev 41 - 519 Sin offerings |
These two chapters deal with ‘unintentional sin’ and were offered when the sin was realised (not an offering for ‘just in case I sinned’). Sins by priests and leaders of common man are far more common than we sometimes realise, but the Lord God knows them all - greedy, selfish, rude, careless, critical etc. All sin needs to be atoned for. Lord, grant us a sensitive conscience that sees and admits all sin. |
| Lev 61-7 Guilt offerings |
When a man realises his guilt he must restore all that he took or found and add one fifth on the day that he realises his guilt. He shall also bring a ram without blemish to the priest as a guilt offering. The priest shall make atonement for him; and the offender shall be forgiven. |
| Lev 68 - 738 Offering details |
After the priest has made the burnt offering, he shall take off his garments and put on other garments and carry the ashes outside the camp to a clean place. ... Fire shall be kept burning on the altar continually; it shall not go out. The grain offering ... shall be eaten unleavened in a holy place ... Every male among the children of Aaron may eat of it ... Whatever touches them shall become holy. Every grain offering of a priest shall be wholly burned. It shall not be eaten. No sin offering shall be eaten. The priest who offers any man's burnt offering shall have for himself the skin of the burnt offering that he has offered. The flesh of the sacrifice of his peace offerings for thanksgiving shall be eaten on the day of his offering. You shall eat no fat, of ox or sheep or goat. Most of these details seem somewhat obscure today, especially as the one perfect sacrifice of Jesus Christ, to whom they point, has now been completed. |
| Lev 8 + 9 Priests ordained |
These 2 chapters detail how Moses ordained Aaron and his sons. The garments, the anointing oil, the sin offering of a bull and two rams, the Urim and the Thummim, what was eaten and what was burned. And Aaron and his sons did all the things that the LORD commanded by Moses. After the 7 days of ordination were completed: Moses and Aaron went into the tent of meeting, and when they came out they blessed the people, and the glory of the LORD appeared to all the people. And fire came out from before the LORD and consumed the burnt offering and the pieces of fat on the altar. |
| Lev 101-20 Unauthorised fire |
Nadab and Abihu, the sons of Aaron, each took his censer and offered unauthorised fire before the Lord. ... And fire came out from before the Lord and consumed them and they died before the Lord. Why? Not why did they die, but why did they offer their fire when they had not been instructed to do so? I cannot answer this, but clearly the Lord was displeased. This event, and later the time when Uzzah put out his hand to steady the Ark when the oxen pulling the cart stumbled (2 Sam 6), teach us the clear lesson that the Lord’s instructions must be implicitly obeyed and not exceeded by any human desire or reason. Could 108-11 hint at the answer? |
| Lev 111-47 Clean and unclean |
The Lord defines which of the animals and birds are ‘clean‘ and which are ‘unclean’. Basically ‘clean’ animals are those that both chew the cud and part the hoof. Only fish with both fins and scales are ‘clean’. (Thankfully eels are ‘unclean’!) The ‘clean’ may be eaten, and ‘unclean’ may not be eaten. Simple. What is not so simple is whether such dietary laws apply today. |
| Lev 121-8 After childbirth |
After bearing a male child the mother is unclean for seven days. Then the male child must be circumcised on the eighth day. Only after a further 33 days is the mother considered as purified. If the child is female then she is ‘unclean’ 14 days and a further 66 days purifying. When either are complete she shall bring a lamb as a burnt offering and a pigeon as a sin offering. The priest will then make atonement for her and she shall be ‘clean’ from the flow of her blood. If she cannot afford a lamb and a pigeon then she shall offer two pigeons. The significance of the purifying and the different times remain a mystery. |
| Lev 13 + 14 Leprosy |
Two long chapters describing the prognosis by a priest of the ghastly disease of leprosy. In those days there was no multi-drug therapy to cure the disease or any antibiotics to try to heal the ulcers. For the benefit of all the others in the camp, the only solution was total separation for life and requirement to continually cry, “Unclean, unclean!” Jesus had a special compassion for lepers. He still has. |
| Lev 15 Bodily discharges |
Normal sexual discharges within marriage are not here considered unclean. But unlike in the surrounding heathen temples, sex in the Temple of God is forbidden. Most of the chapter is concerned with prevention the infection of STD’s and keeping the marriage bed pure. |
| Lev 16 The Day of Atonement |
Yom Kippur comes in the 7th month on the 10th day of the feast of Trumpets - a time when God warns us about the consequences of sin, a time of repentance. Without confession of sin there is no forgiveness. On the Day of Atonement Aaron shall offer the bull as a sin offering for himself and shall make atonement for himself and for his house. Then he took 2 goats, the first was killed for a sin offering to the Lord and its blood was taken to the mercy seat for the sins of the people. Then Aaron shall lay both his hands on the head of the live goat and confess over it all the iniquities of the people of Israel. The goat bearing all their sins is then taken out into the wilderness, and never to be seen again. On this day shall atonement be made for you to cleanse you. You shall be clean before the LORD from all your sins. Jesus was a ‘better’ High Priest, being perfect, he didn’t need to offer a sin offering for himself. He did however make a sin offering for us on the Cross. An atonement that forgives all our sin such that it is never remembered again. |
| Lev 171-16 Blood is sacred |
The Lord has declared: the life of the flesh is in the blood, and I have given it for you on the altar to make atonement for your souls. And therefore anyone who kills an animal must take it to the tent of meeting and offer the blood and the fat to the Lord. Anyone who fails to do so shall be cut off from his people. |
| Lev 181-30 Sexual relationships |
These laws are straight forward and for our good, but sadly often disregarded. Sex is only permissable within marriage and the following are not allowed: Close relatives, father or mother, brother or sister, grandson or granddaughter, uncle or aunt, nephew or niece. Any woman in her menstrual uncleanness. Neighbour’s wife (all adultery) Also you must never give any child as an offering to Molech. You shall not lie with a male as with a woman; it is an abomination. You shall not lie with any animal (male of female) Do not make yourselves unclean by any of these things, for by all these the nations I am driving out before you have become unclean, and the land became unclean, so that I punished its iniquity. ... I am the Lord your God. When any nation legalises what Almighty God has condemned, do not be surprised if the Lord fulfills the promised punishment that it deserves |
| Lev 191-17 Holiness |
You shall be holy, for I the LORD your God am holy. For many holiness is seen as a threat to happiness. So, guess which is rejected? But in truth holiness is the one road that leads to the greatest joy. Holiness includes the following examples: Every one of you shall revere his mother and his father. You shall keep my Sabbaths: I am the LORD your God. Do not turn to idols or make for yourselves any gods of cast metal. You shall not reap the harvest right up to the edge. Or strip your vineyard bare, or gather the fallen grapes. They are to be left for the poor to gather. Do not steal or deal falsely. You shall not profane the name of the Lord. Hired workers are to be paid each day. You shall not curse the deaf or the blind. You shall reason frankly with your neighbour, not hate him. In the promised land, plant a tree for food. But do not allow fruit for 3 years, In 4th year the fruit is to be given to the Lord. In 5th year you may eat it. You shall not eat any flesh with blood in it. Do not interpret omens or tell fortunes, nor tattoo yourselves. Do not make your daughter a prostitute. Never turn to a medium. Honour the face of an old man Take care of the stranger who sojourns with you. Use only just weights in your balances. The Lord wants us to keep all his commandments, but we can never even start to earn our entrance into heaven. Forgiveness is only and always by the grace and mercy of Jesus Christ bearing all our sin on the Cross. O to grace how great a debtor Daily I'm constrained to be Let that grace, Lord, like a fetter, Bind my wandering heart to Thee. |
| Lev 201-27 Death penalty |
Any one of the people of Israel or of the strangers who sojourn in Israel who gives any of his children to Molech shall surely be put to death. Legalised abortion for social convenience in UK now exceeds 200,000/year. Sam penalty for anyone who turns to mediums anyone who curses his parents anyone who commits adultery any man who lies with a male as with a woman anyone who lies with an animal. |
| Lev 211 - 2233 Priests |
Priests shall not make themselves unclean. They shall not make bald patches on their heads. They shall be holy to their God. He may only marry a virgin, never a prostitute. If he has a blemish (blind, lame etc) he shall not serve in the sanctuary. A lay person shall not eat of a holy thing (food offered to the Lord). All offerings must be without blemish. |
| Lev 231-44 The Feasts |
Sabbath on 7th day. Passover on 15th day of first month. 7 days unleavened bread. First fruits. Priest shall wave sheaf before the Lord + burnt and grain offerings. Weeks (Pentecost) 7 weeks after Firstfruits. Trumpets on 1st day of the seventh month. Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement) on 10th day of seventh month. Booths (Tabernacles) on 15th day of seventh month. An 8 day feast |
| Lev 241-9 Lamps and Bread |
Bring pure oil for the lamp that it may be permanently lit outside the veil in the tent of meeting. 12 loaves each 2/10 ephah (7 lb ?) every Sabbath offered to the Lord and eaten by the sons of Aaron. |
| Lev 2410-16 Blasphemy |
Whoever blasphemes the name of the LORD shall surely be put to death. 3rd Commandment + this decree arose after a half-Egyptian man cursed the God of Israel. |
| Lev 2417-23 An eye for an eye |
This is often mis quoted, or more likely quoted correctly but mis-applied. The justice of this punishment is that it must be like for like, and not more to get revenge. And it should not be less either, which could make it cease to be a deterrent. |
| Lev 251-7 Sabbath Year |
When you come into the land that I give you, the land shall keep a Sabbath to the LORD. For six years you shall sow your field ... but in the seventh year there shall be a Sabbath of solemn rest for the land, a Sabbath to the LORD. A simple command; but has always been largely ignored. |
| Lev 258-34 Year of Jubilee |
You shall consecrate the fiftieth year ... It shall be a jubilee for you, when each of you shall return to his property ... The land shall not be sold in perpetuity, for the land is mine. All the land permanently belonged to the original families. This law prevents the rich accumulating large estates. Not surprisingly it has also been totally ignored, such is the way of the privileged. The law did not ally within walled cities. The year of Jubilee applied to land and also to servants. If a man became poor and had to serve a master (but not as a slave), he may be redeemed at any time and shall be released at Jubilee. I wonder if the year Jesus died and rose was a Jubilee year? ! |
| Lev 2535-55 Brother, servant or slave |
If a brother becomes poor, you shall support him, but not for profit. He can be a servant, but not a slave. In the year of Jubilee he shall go free. You may buy male or female slaves from other nations, and bequeath them to your sons as a possession forever. If your brother becomes poor and is sold he can be redeemed in proportion to the price paid and the years left until Jubilee. |
| Lev 261-13 Obedience |
First, two laws are reiterated: You shall not make idols for yourselves You shall keep my Sabbaths and reverence my sanctuary. Keeping these laws will result in agricultural security and peace in the land. Your enemies will be easily defeated I will turn to you and make you fruitful and multiply you I will walk among you and will be your God, and you shall be my people. |
| Lev 2614-46 Disobedience |
Here the Lord takes just 2 of the commandments, no idols and keep the Sabbath. If you keep these then You shall eat your bread to the full and dwell in your land securely ... I will make my dwelling among you. But if you will not listen to me ... if you spurn my statutes: I will visit you with panic You shall sow your seed in vain, for your enemies shall eat it. I will set my face against you, Those who hate you shall rule over you Your land shall not yield its increase If by this discipline you are not turned to me ... I myself will strike you sevenfold for your sins. I myself will devastate the land. But if they confess their iniquity ... then I will remember my covenant with Jacob and I will remember the land.
Almighty God lays out his law and equally clearly the consequences of sin. |
| Lev 271-34 Keeping vows |
The final chapter tells Israel that God expects them to keep any vow they make concerning people, animals, houses and land. Just as Almighty God always keeps his word. These are the commandments that the LORD commanded Moses for the people of Israel on Mount Sinai. |
Numbers [Contents]
The first 9 chapters describe how Israel was to be organised and especially the responsibility of the Levites as priests. The remainder is an honest historical record of their journey through Sinai and God’s gracious governance. Almighty God is seen as a holy God who cannot ignore rebellion or unbelief, but also as the one who faithfully keeps his covenant and patiently provides for the needs of his people.
| Num 11 - 234 Detailed Census |
The leaders of each of the 2 tribes (family) were named, and then the number of men aged over 20 were counted. The total was 603,550 to which must be added all the women and children. The Lord instructed Moses not to include the tribe of Levi in the census. Instead, appoint the Levites to be in charge of the Tabernacle of the Testimony. The encampment was to put the Tabernacle and the Levites in the centre and 3 tribes on each side surrounding them and facing the Tabernacle. (The tribe of Joseph was divided into Ephraim and Manasseh to make 12 tribes). The normal requirements for daily living for this number of people in the middle of the desert required a continuous miracle for food, water and sanitation without any outside help - but Almighty God was far better and more reliable than the UN in a refugee camp! Note that this organisation, which included all their livestock, was not for a week’s holiday, but was to continue for 40 years! |
| Num 31 - 449 The Levites |
The two elder sons of Aaron, Nadab and Abihu, died before the LORD when they offered unauthorized fire before the LORD in the wilderness of Sinai, and they had no children. So Eleazar and Ithamar served as priests in the lifetime of Aaron their father. (See Lev 101-3) And the LORD spoke to Moses, saying, “Behold, I have taken the Levites from among the people of Israel instead of every firstborn who opens the womb among the people of Israel. The Levites shall be mine, for all the firstborn are mine.” The sons of Levi were counted separately and the males over one month old numbered 22,273. Each of the others tribe had to pay 5 shekels for each of their firstborn and give it to Aaron and his sons as the redemption price for the 273 firstborn (=1365 Shekels). Detailed duties were assigned to each of the family of Koath, Gershon and Maerari for the Tabernacle and those aged 20 to 50 who served numbered 8,580. These duties and the detailed structure of the Tabernacle were important. Later in 2 Sam 61-7 we read how Uzzah died when he steadied the Ark as the oxen stumbled. It should have been carried on poles, not on a cart, not even on a new cart. Today we don’t have a Tabernacle, but God expects our lives to be disciplined and careful. |
| Num 51-31 3 Laws |
1. Put out of the camp everyone who is leprous or has a discharge and everyone who is unclean through contact with the dead. 2. Anyone who sins shall confess his sin that he has committed. And he shall make full restitution for his wrong, adding a fifth to it and giving it to him to whom he did the wrong. If he cannot make restitution to the man or his next of kin, he shall confess and bring his restitution to the priest. 3. Test for adultery. The woman shall drink water of bitterness and if her body swells she is guilty. Why is there no test for men? |
| Num 61-21 Nazarite vow |
This vow is for a variable season; no set time. The vow of a Nazirite, to separate himself to the LORD. No alcoholic drink or even grape juice, and no razor shall touch his head. When vow ends, he shall make a ‘peace offering’ and a grain offering. |
| Num 622-27 Blessing by Aaron |
The LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; the LORD lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace. |
| Num 71 - 826 Setting up Tabernacle |
Each day leaders bring gifts to Moses for the Tabernacle, 6 carts and 12 oxen. 7 branched Lampstand of hammered gold set up. Levites cleansed and purified themselves. Levites retire when aged 50 |
| Num 91-14 Passover, 1st anniversary |
Celebrated at twilight on 14th day of 1st month. They shall eat it with unleavened bread and bitter herbs. Leave none till morning. If unclean because touched a dead body, then celebrate it one month later. If any sojourner is with you, they shall also celebrate Passover. |
| Num 915-23 Tabernacle set up. The Cloud |
On the day that the tabernacle was set up, the cloud covered the tabernacle,
the tent of the testimony. So it was always: the cloud covered it by day
and the appearance of fire by night. And whenever the cloud lifted from over the tent, after that the people of Israel set out, and in the place where the cloud settled down, there the people of Israel camped. The Israelites kept this charge of the Lord all the time they were in Sinai. |
| Num 101-10 Silver Trumpets |
Two silver trumpets to summon the chiefs, the congregation, breaking camp, and for an alarm. Also beginning of each month and for the feasts. They shall be a reminder of you before your God: I am the LORD your God. |
| Num 1011-36 Cloud lifts |
In the second year, in the second month, on the twentieth day of the month, the cloud lifted from over the tabernacle of the testimony, and the people of Israel set out by stages from the wilderness of Sinai. For the first time the Tabernacle was taken down and led by Judah, Issachar and Zebulun each tribe set out in order - for 3 days.. Although invited, Reuel, the Midianite father in law of Moses, decided to return to Midian. Whenever the ark set out, Moses said, “Arise, O LORD, and let your enemies be scattered, and let those who hate you flee before you.” And when it rested, he said, “Return, O LORD, to the ten thousand thousands of Israel.” |
| Num 111-15 People complain at Taberah |
The Lord had provided the vast number of Israelites with manna in the desert. But the people had tired of nothing but manna and cried, “Oh that we had meat to eat! We remember the fish we ate in Egypt that cost nothing, the cucumbers, the melons, the leeks, the onions, and the garlic. But now our strength is dried up, and there is nothing at all but this manna to look at.” This kindled the Lord’s anger and he sent fire that consumed some of them. The people complained to Moses. And he complained to the Lord that he had been chosen to lead them, “I am not able to carry this people alone, the burden is too heavy for me.” |
| Num 1116-35 Elders appointed Quail + Plague |
Then the LORD said to Moses, “Gather for me seventy men of the elders of Israel ... and they shall bear the burden of the people with you. The people had complained about only having to eat the Lord’s gift of manna and had said, “It was better for us in Egypt.” Therefore the Lord then told them that he would give them meat (quails) for a whole month so that it would become loathsome. The people had no appreciation that manna was God’s gift. Neither did they realise the great plan for Israel to enter and possess the promised land; but they had rejected the Lord. And even Moses seemed to doubt God could provide so much meat in the desert. So the Lord said to Moses, “Is the LORD'S hand shortened? Now you shall see whether my word will come true for you or not.” Moses gathered the 70 around the tent and when the Spirit rested upon them they prophesied. But two didn’t come, they remained in the camp. The same Spirit of God rested on them and they also prophesied. Joshua complained to Moses, but Moses said to him, “Would that all the LORD'S people were prophets, that the LORD would put his Spirit on them!” Then a wind from the LORD sprang up, and it brought quail from the sea and let them fall beside the camp. But the Lord was also angry with the people and struck down many with a plague. They called the place Kibroth-hattaavah = graves of craving. Then the people journeyed to Hazeroth, and they remained there.
God’s lessons are not always pleasant. |
| Num 121-16 Miriam and Aaron speak against Moses |
They spoke against Moses using the excuse that he had married a Cushite (descended from Ham), but the real reason was, “Has the LORD indeed spoken only through Moses? Has he not spoken through us also?” They wanted to share the God-given authority of Moses. The Lord called all three to the Tent of meeting where he told them that unlike when he spoke with anyone else, he spoke with the faithful Moses, face to face. The Lord was angry with them and when the cloud lifted, Miriam was leprous. Aaron repents and Moses prayed for her healing. So Miriam was shut outside the camp seven days, and the people did not set out on the march till Miriam was brought in again - fully healed. It is here that Scripture declares: Now the man Moses was very meek, more than all people who were on the face of the earth. The best leaders can also be humble and teachable, though very few are because very few ‘walk with God’ like Moses did. |
| Num 131 - 1445 Spies wrong conclusion |
On God’s instruction Moses sent 12 spies into Canaan (1 from each tribe) and told them to be of good courage and bring some of the fruit of the land. They returned after 40 days and made their report: “We came to the land to which you sent us. It flows with milk and honey, and this is its fruit. However, the people who dwell in the land are strong, and the cities are fortified and very large. And besides, we saw the descendants of Anak there.” Caleb and Joshua who believed the promise of God to give it to them agreed with the report, but came to a very different conclusion. “Let us go up at once and occupy it, for we are well able to overcome it.”
Come, Holy Ghost, for moved by thee
Expand thy wings, celestial Dove,
But after the other 10 spies had brought a bad report the people wept all night and then grumbled against Moses saying: “Would that we had died in the land of Egypt! ... Why is the LORD bringing us into this land, to fall by the sword? ... Let us choose a leader and go back to Egypt.” Joshua and Caleb tried to encourage them to trust in the Lord, but the people wanted to stone them. Not surprisingly, the Lord was angry and said to Moses, “How long will this people despise me? And how long will they not believe in me, in spite of all the signs that I have done among them? I will strike them with the pestilence and disinherit them ...” See website ‘Testings in the Wilderness’ (Use back arrow to return here)
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| Num 151-36 More laws |
This section adds laws for the time when they were in the promised land. Although this generation would not enter, the laws would encourage them that the next generation would do so. All the law was given to lead men to Christ. Gal 324 Lu 2427 Christ came to fulfill all the law; only he can set men free from the law of sin and death. Ro 82 |
| Num 1537-41 Tassels |
Make tassels on the corners of their garments ... put a cord of blue on the tassel of each corner ... So you shall remember and do all my commandments, and be holy to your God. David was convicted when, in the En Gedi cave, he cut off the corner of Saul’s garment. 1 Sam 245 The woman who had ‘an issue of blood twelve years’ came to Jesus and touched ‘the hem of his garment’ She was immediately healed. Math 920 (KJV) |
| Num 161 - 173 Rebellion |
It seems that men are often dissatisfied with what they have. A mixture of pride and jealousy. Korah, a Levite with great privileges as a priest in the Tabernacle, wanted more; he wanted to be like Moses. Dathan, Abiram and On were from the tribe of Reuben and thus barred from the priestly privilege. They joined forces with 250 chiefs against Moses and law of God claiming that “All in the congregation are holy, every one of them, and the LORD is among them. Why then do you exalt yourselves above the assembly of the LORD?” They also stated that they had left Egypt, a land flowing with milk and honey and You have failed to bring us into a land flowing wih milk and honey and given us fields and vineyards. Moses responded by telling them to come to the Tabernacle next day with their censers and the Lord would reveal his verdict. Next morning all Israel assembled. And Moses told them to separate themselves from the rebel leaders. If the Lord opens the ground and the rebels are swallowed alive then know that they died because these men have despised the Lord. And as soon as he finished speaking, that is exactly what happened. And the fire of the Lord consumed all 250 men who were offering incense. Their bronze censers were hammered flat and use to cover the altar as a reminder to the people of Israel, so that no outsider, who is not of the descendants of Aaron, should draw near to burn incense before the LORD. But his did not satisfy the people. Foolishly they grumbled against Moses and Aaron. And immediately a plague began. Aaron did as Moses commanded, he took his censer, put on incense and made atonement for the people. He ran out and stood between the dead and the living, and the plague was stopped. 14,700 died. Moses told each chief to write his name on his staff and bring it to him. He deposited the staffs before the LORD in the tent of the testimony. And next morning Behold, the staff of Aaron for the house of Levi had sprouted and put forth buds and produced blossoms, and it bore ripe almonds. Each chief was given back his staff. But Aaron’s staff was kept in the Ark as a sign for rebels. |
| Num 181-12 Priest’s duties |
You shall keep guard over the sanctuary and over the altar, that there may never again be wrath on the people of Israel ... They are a gift to you, given to the LORD, to do the service of the tent of meeting ... and any outsider who comes near shall be put to death. ... All the holy contributions that the people of Israel present to the LORD I give to you. ... You shall have no inheritance in their land ... I am your portion and your inheritance among the people of Israel. ... Out of all the gifts to you, you shall present every contribution due to the LORD; from each its best part is to be dedicated. The priests were instructed to give the best to the Lord, like Abel and unlike Cain. Gen 43,4 Also sons of Eli ate the best portions themselves. 1 Sam 212-17 What about today? Is the Lord top of our annual budget? And with our time, is it just ‘Sundays and the fag ends of our time’? Is Bible reading and prayer our first priority of the day? |
| Num 191-22 Purification |
The OT laws reveal the need for all to be purified. Here the Lord calls for a red heifer, one without defect and has never been yoked. Whoever touches a dead body shall be unclean for a week. |
| Num 201 Miriam dies |
They had returned to Kadesh (1326) after some 38 years. One simple verse records that at Kadesh, Miriam dies and was buried there. |
| Num 202-13 Water at Meribah |
There was no water, so the people quarrelled with Moses. So he and Aaron went to the Tent of Meeting. The glory of the Lord appeared to them. And he told Moses to take the staff, and assemble the congregation and tell the rock before their eyes to yield its water. Moses was angry with the people. He struck the rock twice with his staff. And water came out abundantly. But he had disobeyed the Lord - he had struck the rock rather than just commanding it. So the Lord told him that “Because you did not believe in me, to uphold me as holy in the eyes of the people of Israel, therefore you shall not bring this assembly into the land that I have given them.” This reveals the holiness of God, who expects man to obey him precisely. |
| Num 2014-21 Edom refuses passage |
Moses sent messengers to the king of Edom with a request to pass through and promised not to take any food or water. But the sons of Esau refused. |
| Num 2022-29 Aaron dies at Mt Hor |
Aaron was party to the disobedience at Merebah, so God told Moses to take his brother up Mt Hor, to strip off his priestly garments and clothe his son Eleazar. Thus Aaron died there and the people wept 30 days for him. |
| Num 211-3 Arad destroyed |
Arad fought Israel and took some of them captive. So Israel vowed that if the Lord gave them into Israel’s hand, they would destroy their cities. And the LORD heeded the voice of Israel and gave over the Canaanites, and they devoted them and their cities to destruction. So the first Canaanite people and cities were destroyed. |
| Num 214-9 Bronze serpent |
Again the people became impatient and spoke against God and against Moses. So the Lord sent fiery serpents among the people so that many died. The people repented and admitted their sin. Moses prayed. The Lord then told Moses to make a fiery serpent and put it on a pole so that anyone who looked upon the bronze serpent would live. Note that this was commanded by the Lord and is in no way an idol to worship, nor has it even a remote connection with the serpent Satan. Gen 31-14 See also Exd 79-15 when Aaron’s staff became a serpent that swallowed the staffs/serpents of the Egyptian magicians. And again, as Jesus told Nicodemus, “As Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, that whoever believes in him may have eternal life.” Jn 314 |
| Num 2110-35 Sihon and Og defeated |
The Lord gave Israel water from a well at Beer which is between Moab and the Amorites. Sihon, their king, would not let them pass. They fought and the Lord gave them victory over all the Amorite. Then Og, the king of Bashan would not let them pass. The Lord said to Moses, “Do not fear him, for I have given him into your hand, and all his people, and his land. You shall do to him as you did to Sihon king of the Amorites.” So they defeated him and his sons and all his people, until he had no survivor left. And they possessed his land. |
| Num 221 - 2517 Balaam |
Balaam was a false prophet even though he appeared good. 2 Pe 215 Rev 214 He was killed with Moab and the Midianites in Num 318 Josh 1322 Balak, king of Moab, hired Balaam to curse Israel. But God told Balaam, “You shall not curse the people, for they are blessed.” They tried again to hire Balaam, but this time God told himto go with Balak’s men. Balaam’s donkey saw the angel, it stopped and would not budge. It even spoke, and finally Balaam also saw the angel, who told him to continue, but he must only say exactly what he was told to. Balaam went to Balak and built 7 altars for 7 bulls and 7 rams. Then he went to a bare height and God met him and told him to return to Balak and speak his word. So he went back to Balak and blessed Israel! Balak persuaded him to go with him to another place and then curse Israel. They went together to the top of Pisgah and made the same 7 sacrifices. And Balaam again spoke what God told him: God is not man, that he should lie, or a son of man, that he should change his mind. Has he said, and will he not do it? Or has he spoken, and will he not fulfill it? Behold, I received a command to bless: he has blessed, and I cannot revoke it. Again Balak asked Balaam to go with him to the top of Peor But this time, he did not go with him to look for omens, but set his face toward the wilderness. And there he saw Israel camped tribe by tribe and the spirit of God came upon him. How lovely are your tents, O Jacob ... like cedar trees beside the waters. Water shall flow from his buckets, and his seed shall be in many waters ... God brings him out of Egypt and is for him like the horns of the wild ox; He shall eat up the nations, his adversaries, and shall break their bones in pieces ... Blessed are those who bless you, and cursed are those who curse you. Balaam then told Balak how Israel would dispossess Moab, Edom, and Amalek. But that was not all that Balaam did. See 2 Pe 214-16 Rev 214 While Israel lived in Shittim, the people began to whore with the daughters of Moab. These invited the people to the sacrifices of their gods, and the people ate and bowed down to their gods. So Israel yoked himself to Baal of Peor. And the anger of the LORD was kindled against Israel. Phinehas honoured for killing Zimri as he lay upon a Midianite woman. 24,000 died by the plague that the Lord sent upon Israel. |
| Num 261-65 God commands a census |
Just before entering the promised land, God commands a census of all over 20. Reuben 43,730 Judah 76,500 Manasseh 52,700 Dan 64,400 Simeon 22,200 Issachar 64,300 Ephraim 32,500 Asher 53,400 Gad 40,500 Zebulun 60,500 Benjamin 45,600 Naphtali 45,400 Total = 601,730
Levites 23,000 included all males from 1 month old. |
| Num 271-11 Inheritance |
Zelophehad had daughters, but no son, so when he died his daughters asked that they might inherit. The Lord told Moses that the daughters should inherit. And if there were no daughters, then his brother or nearest kinsman should inherit. |
| Num 2712-23 Moses seeks a successor |
The Lord told Moses to go up Mt Abarim. There he could see the promised land that he would never enter. The response of the unselfish Moses was to ask God for one to succeed him so that the people would have a shepherd to lead them. So the LORD said to Moses, “Take Joshua the son of Nun, a man in whom is the Spirit, and lay your hand on him.” Moses took Joshua before Eleazar the priest and all the people and commissioned him as the Lord had directed. |
| Num 281-15 Offerings |
Offerings were to be made weekly (on Sabbath) and monthly. Why were these offerings made to the Lord? 1. Remind Israel that the Lord who created all things deserves them. 2. Gratitude to the Lord for his forgiveness of our sin. What offerings are appropriate for us today? |
| Num 2816 - 2940 Feasts |
The Lord commanded the 3 main feasts to chart the means of our salvation. 1. Passover Reveals that our deliverance from the slavery of sin is achieved by the sacrifice of a perfect Lamb. “Behold! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world.”. Jn 129 Passover has celebrated 4 aspects for the last 3,000 years. Exd 66-8 a) Freedom from slavery of Egypt and sin. b) Redeemed. Forgiveness is not without cost. Christ had to be crucified. c) God chose Abraham and all his descendants who call upon the Lord. d) God gave them land to demonstrate righteous living in a wicked world, and his great grace when they (and we) fail to do so. This gift of land is fiercely contested today, as is also God’s choice of people. 2. Weeks (or Pentecost) Celebrates the firstfruits of God’s grace by the gift of his Holy Spirit after being redeemed. Act 2 3. Tabernacles This is a trilogy - Trumpets, Yom Kippur and Booths. It ends with the fulfillment of God’s purpose of creation - righteous man living with him in his eternal kingdom. The trilogy begins with the Feast of Trumpets. The ram’s horn is blown as a warning. A warning of God’s judgement of sin and the need to repent and cry to God for mercy. God graciously gives us time to do this thoroughly. Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement comes 10 days after Trumpets. A great day when all our sin is forgiven. Never forget that this atonement was only possible at huge cost; the perfect sacrifice of Christ crucified. This sequence reminds us that only the redeemed, the forgiven and reborn, can enter the kingdom of heaven and ‘tabernacle’ with Almighty God. The Feast of Booths comes 5 days after Yom Kippur, and lasts for 7 whole days. Our promised life with God is eternal, it will never end. Sadly these 3 major Jewish feasts have largely been forgotten by the Church, which is considerably the poorer for its oversight. Christmas and Easter have become much compromised by being linked to pagan festivals. Harvest Thanksgiving has all but disappeared as being a meaningful event. We now just presume that the local supermarket will always have all the food we want throughout the seasons. |
| Num 301-16 Vows |
Men must always keep their vows to the Lord. When a woman makes a vow if on the day her father or husband hears of it and opposes it, then her vow shall not stand. |
| Num 311-54 Midian avenged |
The Lord commands Moses to avenge the people of Israel on the Midianites. So he raised 1,000 from each tribe who killed the 5 kings + Balaam. The army brought back all the women and children, sheep and gold. But Moses was angry with them because they brought back the women who had caused Israel to sin. These were all killed but the children, the animals and the booty were kept. From this they gave a portion as an offering to the Lord. Such cleansing would be even harder when they entered the promised, land when none would be spared. It is so much easier when the angel of the Lord does the killing one night, or the Lord sends fire, as upon Sodom. |
| Num 321-42 2½ tribes E. of Jordan |
Gad, Reuben, and half Manasseh had much livestock and wanted to stay east of the Jordan. Moses agreed provided that all their fighting men went with the rest of Israel to dispossess the Canaanites. Thus they were given the land of Gilead, the land of the Amorites(Sihon) and of Bashan(Og) |
| Num 331-49 Detailed history lesson |
Moses writes a complete history of Israel’s journeying through the desert, from Rameses on the day after Passover while the Egyptians were burying all their firstborn, whom the LORD had struck down among them. On their gods also the LORD executed judgments. Almighty God had faithfully led them all the 40 years. Most of the 43 named campsites cannot be positively identified today. |
| Num 3350-56 Drive out the Canaanites |
The Lord told Moses: “When you pass over the Jordan into the land of Canaan, then you shall drive out all the inhabitants of the land from before you and destroy all their figured stones and destroy all their metal images and demolish all their high places. And you shall take possession of the land and settle in it, for I have given the land to you to possess it.” Their wickedness was now complete and the time to fulfill God’s promise to Abraham of their judgement had come. Gen 1516 So had his covenant with Abraham to give them the land. Gen 177,8 God also warns Israel that if they fail to drive out the Canaanites, then he would also drive them out. |
| Num 341-15 Israel’s borders |
Basically from Galilee to the dead sea and from the Jordan to the Mediterranean. |
| Num 3416-29 Tribal chiefs named |
Each chief would be responsible for dividing land in their allotted portion. |
| Num 351-8 Levite cities |
The Levites will be allotted 48 cities with ~¾ mile of pasture surrounding them. |
| Num 359-34 Cities of refuge |
6 of the Levite cities shall be cities of refuge, where the one who kills another without malice or intent shall have protection from instant revenge until trial. One who kills with iron, stone or wood and with intent is a murderer, who must be put to death. |
| Num 361-13 Female heirs |
If a man has only daughters as his heirs and they marry into another tribe, then the land would also pass into another tribe. Moses commanded that daughters must marry within their tribe and no inheritance shall pass into another tribe. In other words, like much of Africa, the land belongs to the tribe, not an individual. Western culture (including Israel) disregards this command. Today it becomes a real problem when Jews buy ‘so-called’ Palestinian land. If Palestinians sell land to a Jew - they are #put under a death penalty! |
Deuteronomy [Contents]
This book calls for all to love and obey the one true God; it reveals God’s mercy and judgement, his faithfulness, provision, promises and instructions for life. The history it contains has so much to teach us; but it is too often ignored. It was written by Moses at the end of the 40 years in the desert before entering the promised land.
| Deut 11-8 Go into the land |
Moses spoke to the people of Israel according to all that the LORD had given him in commandment to them. All Scripture is ‘God breathed’ and this is no exception. See, I have set the land before you. Go in and take possession of the land that the LORD swore to your fathers, to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob, to give to them and to their offspring after them.’ From the beginning Almighty God sets before his creation Blessing or curse, Gerizim or Ebal; the choice to obey or to rebel. And the consequences of both ways. |
| Deut 19-18 Leaders appointed |
The work load for Moses was becoming too great so he appointed tribal leaders. Men who were wise, understanding, and experienced. They were instructed to hear the cases between your brothers, and judge righteously. ... And the case that is too hard for you, you shall bring to me. |
| Deut 119-46 Rebellion and its consequences |
It must have been with great sadness that Moses had to recount how Israel rebelled against the Lord at Kadesh-barnea some 40 years earlier. Moses told them, ‘You have come to the hill country of the Amorites, which the LORD our God is giving us. See, the LORD your God has set the land before you. Go up, take possession, as the LORD, the God of your fathers, has told you. Do not fear or be dismayed.’ But the people did not believe him, or the Lord, in spite of all the signs. 10 plagues, Passover, the escape from Egyptian slavery, crossing the Red Sea, provision of water and food, defeating Amalek, ... But the people rebelled against the command of the LORD your God. And you murmured in your tents and said, ‘Because the LORD hated us ... Who put such fear and lies in their hearts? Satan always hates and opposes all the loving kindness of God. Even when Moses told them the truth that The LORD your God who goes before you will himself fight for you, just as he did for you in Egypt before your eyes, and in the wilderness, where you have seen how the LORD your God carried you. But the people still refused to believe the evidence. And paid a high price. The Lord punished them: They would wander 40 years in the desert and die there instead of entering a land flowing with milk and honey with the Lord as their King. What folly! Why are men so stubborn? 3,500 years ago - and still are today. |
| Deut 21 - 329 God divides the land |
After 38 years the Lord told Moses to turn north and not to fight various people: 1. The people of Esau, who live in Seir; and they will be afraid of you. So be very careful. Do not contend with them, for I will not give you any of their land, no, not so much as for the sole of the foot to tread on, because I have given Mount Seir to Esau as a possession. 2. Do not harass Moab or contend with them in battle, for I will not give you any of their land for a possession, because I have given Ar to the people of Lot for a possession. 3. When you approach the territory of the people of Ammon, do not harass them or contend with them, for I will not give you any of the land of the people of Ammon as a possession, because I have given it to the sons of Lot for a possession. The Lord told Moses to fight against the two Amorite kings: 1. Behold, I have given into your hand Sihon the Amorite, king of Heshbon, and his land. Begin to take possession, and contend with him in battle. 2. Og the king of Bashan came out against us, he and all his people, to battle at Edrei. But the LORD said to me, ‘Do not fear him, for I have given him and all his people and his land into your hand. Then Moses commanded Joshua: Your eyes have seen all that the LORD your God has done to these two kings. So will the LORD do to all the kingdoms into which you are crossing. You shall not fear them, for it is the LORD your God who fights for you. Moses was allowed to climb Pisgah and see the promised land, but the Lord told him to appoint Joshua to lead the people of Israel. And he shall put them in possession of the land that you shall see. |
| Deut 41-40 God commands Disobedience punished Mercy and grace |
Moses knew that his time of leading Israel was drawing to a close, so he determined that the people should listen to and obey all the commandments of Almighty God, so that you may live, and go in and take possession of the land that the LORD, the God of your fathers, is giving you. Their future was dependent upon obedience. This was the lesson of the previous 40 years wandering in the desert. Knowing the waywardness of man he instructed them: You shall not add to the word that I command you, nor take from it, that you may keep the commandments of the LORD your God. ... Make them known to your children and your children's children. Today in UK we have largely rejected these words of wisdom. Schools no longer teach even the 10 Commandments; successive governments have legalised abortion (murder of unborn children) and homosexuality, taught the Evolution Theory lie that denies that God created all things and desecrated the Sabbath. Almighty God is marginalised, if not totally denied. And we wonder why our world standing has diminished and social problems multiply! Moses warned Israel that if in future years they disobeyed and acted corruptly God would be angry and punish them. But from there you will seek the LORD your God and you will find him, if you search after him with all your heart and with all your soul. Moses even prophesied that When you are in tribulation, and all these things come upon you in the latter days, you will return to the LORD your God and obey his voice. For the LORD your God is a merciful God. He will not leave you or destroy you or forget the covenant with your fathers that he swore to them. ... To you it was shown, that you might know that the LORD is God; there is no other besides him. ... know therefore today, and lay it to your heart, that the LORD is God in heaven above and on the earth beneath; there is no other. We also need to listen to Moses and appreciate and take heed to the Word of God. |
| Deut 441-43 Cities of refuge |
Moses realised that people can react violently even to accidental death. So God directed him to introduce ‘cities of refuge to justly protect the one who had caused a death unintentionally. They were never to protect a murderer. This is similar to the principle of ‘an eye for an eye and tooth for a tooth’; that is often misapplied. It was introduced in Exd 538 to ensure a fair response instead of an exaggerated retaliation. The objective of both is justice. |
| Deut 444 - 625 The Law |
Moses reminds the people of the God’s statutes. The LORD our God made a covenant with us in Horeb. The 10 Commandments that were written on stone so that they could not be altered. He then gives them a summary of the Law , which Jesus quoted in Math 2237 (Jesus also quoted Lev 1918 You shall love your neighbor as yourself.) Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one. You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might. Moses continued with a warning: And when the LORD your God brings you into the land that he swore to your fathers, ... when you eat and are full, then take care lest you forget the LORD, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery. It is the LORD your God you shall fear. ... it will be righteousness for us, if we are careful to do all this commandment before the LORD our God. |
| Deut 71-26 The Chosen people |
When the LORD your God brings you into the land that you are entering to take possession of it, and clears away many nations before you, the Hittites, the Girgashites, the Amorites, the Canaanites, the Perizzites, the Hivites, and the Jebusites, seven nations more numerous and mightier than you, and when the LORD your God gives them over to you, and you defeat them, then you must devote them to complete destruction. You shall make no covenant with them and show no mercy to them. You shall not intermarry with them. For you are a people holy to the LORD your God. The LORD your God has chosen you to be a people for his treasured possession, out of all the peoples who are on the face of the earth. To understand world affairs today it is vital to keep God’s choice of Israel in the forefront of our minds. Many Christians now write off the Jews because they crucified Jesus. But this was God’s prophesied plan throughout the OT. We should take heed to the truth he revealed to Jeremiah: For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, declares the LORD: I will put my law within them, and I will write it on their hearts. And I will be their God, and they shall be my people. ... For I will forgive their iniquity, and I will remember their sin no more.Thus says the LORD, who gives the sun for light by day and the fixed order of the moon and the stars for light by night, who stirs up the sea so that its waves roar— the LORD of hosts is his name: “If this fixed order departs from before me, declares the LORD, then shall the offspring of Israel cease from being a nation before me forever.” Thus says the LORD: “If the heavens above can be measured, and the foundations of the earth below can be explored, then I will cast off all the offspring of Israel for all that they have done, declares the LORD.” Jer 3133-37 Unlike many fallible men, Almighty God is faithful, he does not practice divorce. His generous verdict remains: For you are a people holy to the LORD your God. The LORD your God has chosen you to be a people for his treasured possession. |
| Deut 81-20 Remember |
Moses reminded them all that their history was important, and not to be forgotten. You shall remember the whole way that the LORD your God has led you these forty years in the wilderness. ... He humbled you and let you hunger and fed you with manna, which you did not know, nor did your fathers know, that he might make you know that man does not live by bread alone, but man lives by every word that comes from the mouth of the LORD. And what of the future? The LORD your God is bringing you into a good land, a land of brooks of water, of fountains and springs, flowing out in the valleys and hills, a land of wheat and barley, of vines and fig trees and pomegranates, a land of olive trees and honey, a land in which you will eat bread without scarcity, in which you will lack nothing. ... Take care lest you forget the LORD your God ... If you forget the LORD your God and go after other gods and serve them and worship them, I solemnly warn you today that you shall surely perish. As always Almighty God would keep his promise. |
| Deut 91 - 1132 God’s victory |
Hear, O Israel: you are to cross over the Jordan today, to go in to dispossess nations greater and mightier than you. ... Know therefore today that he who goes over before you as a consuming fire is the LORD your God. He will destroy them and subdue them before you. This victory over all the Canaanites would not be achieved because Israel was strong, but because the time had come for God to judge these most wicked nations. It certainly was not because Israel was righteous. Moses reminded them about how they had made and worshipped a golden calf, how he had pleaded for the people, God had written the 10 Commandments on 2 tablets of stone. And now, Israel, what does the LORD your God require of you, but to fear the LORD your God, to walk in all his ways, to love him, to serve the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul, and to keep the commandments and statutes of the LORD, which I am commanding you today for your good? You shall therefore keep the whole commandment that I command you today, that you may be strong, and go in and take possession of the land that you are going over to possess, and that you may live long in the land. Take care lest your heart be deceived, and you turn aside and serve other gods and worship them; then the anger of the LORD will be kindled against you. For if you will be careful to do all this commandment that I command you to do, loving the LORD your God, walking in all his ways, and holding fast to him, then the LORD will drive out all these nations before you, and you will dispossess nations greater and mightier than you. Every place on which the sole of your foot treads shall be yours.
Almighty God ensured that Moses made his covenant and all his promises clear. |
| Deut 121-32 No foreign worship |
Moses instructs the peopel that when they enter the promised land: You shall surely destroy all the places where the nations whom you shall dispossess served their gods ... You shall tear down their altars and dash in pieces their pillars and burn their Asherim with fire. ... You shall not do according to all that we are doing here today, everyone doing whatever is right in his own eyes. Only after God gives them rest from defeating all Israel’s enemies, would he choose a place (Jerusalem) for them to rejoice before the Lord. When the LORD your God cuts off before you the nations whom you go in to dispossess ... take care that you be not ensnared to follow them ... for they even burn their sons and their daughters in the fire to their gods. |
| Deut 131-18 Beware of signs |
If a prophet ... gives you a sign or a wonder ... and if he says, ‘Let us go after other gods ...’ you shall not listento the words of that prophet. ... He shall be put to death because he has taught rebellion against the Lord your God. ... So you shall purge the evil from your midst. This warning is still relevant today and especially so in the last days when deceit will prosper and the ‘False Prophet’ will perform many signs. See Rev 1311-13 1920 |
| Deut 141,2 God has favourites! |
Moses delivers this truth from the Lord God to the people of Israel: You are a people holy to the LORD your God, and the LORD has chosen you to be a people for his treasured possession, out of all the peoples who are on the face of the earth. Gentiles who believe that Jesus came to pay the redemption price for our sin are granted the privilege of being forgiven and included in God’s treasured possession. |
| Deut 143-21 Clean food defined |
God defines clean animals that may be eaten are those that both chew the cud and whose hooves are parted. Thus pigs and camels are considered unclean to eat. Fish must have fins and scales. Birds that prey are considered unclean (included in the list are eagles, hawks, owls, herons, cormorants and bats. 1412-18) All winged insects are unclean. Anything that has died naturally is unclean; but foreigners may eat them. And “You shall not boil a young goat in its mother's milk.” |
| Deut 1422-29 Tithes |
You shall tithe all the yield that comes from the field ... grain, wine, oil, and firstborn of your flocks ... you shall eat the tithe ... that you may learn to fear the LORD your God always. Every third year the people were also instructed to bring a tithe for the Levites (who had no inherited land). |
| Deut 151-18 Sabbatical year |
If Israel were careful to keep the law than the Lord God promised: you shall lend to many nations, but you shall not borrow, and you shall rule over many nations, but they shall not rule over you. But knowing that they would not be able to keep the law, God commanded that every 7th year all Hebrew borrowers should be forgiven their debt. It is of little surprise that Israel has not kept this law. Neither has the Christian church. Also If your brother, a Hebrew man or a Hebrew woman, is sold to you, he shall serve you six years, and in the seventh year you shall let him go free from you. And when you let him go free from you, you shall not let him go empty-handed. ... You shall remember that you were a slave in the land of Egypt, and the LORD your God redeemed you. If the slave wishes to continue serving his (or her) master then he should be allowed to do so; and you shall take an awl, and put it through his ear into the door. |
| Deut 1519-22 Firstborn |
All the firstborn males that are born of your herd and flock you shall dedicate to the LORD your God. |
| Deut 161-17 The 3 Feasts |
Moses calls upon Israel to remember the Feasts of Passover, Weeks and Booths. The Christian church has always ignored them, regarding them as being distinctly Jewish. Yet they clearly reveal the plan of God for the salvation of man. Our rejection has caused a sad loss which very few recognise. Booths, contains the Trumpets of repentance, Yom Kippor (Atonement) and Tabernacles is highly significant. |
| Deut 1618 - 1713 Justice |
All the towns of Israel shall appoint a righteous, impartial man as judge.
You shall not plant any tree as an Asherah beside the altar of the LORD your God.
If anyone is found to worship other gods, then on the evidence of at least two witnesses, he or she shall be stoned. The witnesses shall throw the first stone. In later years Israel would not obey either of these commands. |
| Deut 1714-20 Concerning kings |
Moses makes laws for the day when Israel shall demand a king like other nations. 1. He must not acquire many horses for himself. 2. He shall not acquire many wives for himself. 3. He shall not acquire for himself excessive silver and gold. 4. He shall read the book of the law every day that he may learn to fear the LORD his God by keeping all the words of this law and these statutes. But Israel’s kings (especially Solomon) chose to ignore these instructions. History reveals that ‘power’ leads to corruption is true for nearly all kings. And democratic rulers are not immune from this corruption. |
| Deut 181-8 Priests |
The Levitical priests were not to receive any land inheritance but would live in all the land given to the other tribes and would rely on their sacrificial offerings and ‘firstfruits’ to the Lord. |
| Deut 189-14 Inclusive religion |
When you come into the land that the LORD your God is giving you, you shall not learn to follow the abominable practices of those nations. Also forbidden is all forms of sorcery and fortune telling because this is why the Lord will drive out the Canaanites. |
| Deut 1815-22 A Prophet |
I will raise up for them a prophet like you from among their brothers. And I will put my words in his mouth. There would also be other prophets. The words of presumptive prophets would not be fulfilled. But it should be noted that the task of a prophet is far greater than just foretelling the future. Prophets interpret the past, discern the present and predict the future. They reveal the truth of God. |
| Deut 191-13 3 Cities of Refuge |
Provision of protection for anyone who kills his neighbour unintentionally without having hated him in the past. This is not to escape justice but to prevent unjust avenging. |
| Deut 1914 Boundary landmarks |
You shall not move your neighbour's landmark. |
| Deut 1915-21 Legal witnesses |
A single witness shall not suffice against a person for any crime. Only on the evidence of two witnesses or of three witnesses shall a charge be established. Judges must inquire diligently that any witness is telling the truth. When a crime is established then the punishment shall be proportionate, not excessive - an eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth. |
| Deut 201-20 Laws of War |
When you go out to war against your enemies, and see horses and chariots and an army larger than your own, you shall not be afraid of them, for the LORD your God is with you. Any who are fainthearted should stay at home. |Likewise any who have just built a house or just married. If non Canaanite cities oppose you should kill their men, but not the women, children or animals. But in the cities of these peoples that the LORD your God is giving you for an inheritance, you shall save alive nothing that breathes, but you shall devote them to complete destruction, the Hittites and the Amorites, the Canaanites and the Perizzites, the Hivites and the Jebusites, as the LORD your God has commanded, that they may not teach you to do according to all their abominable practices that they have done for their gods, and so you sin against the LORD your God. Such judgement is today often seen as unduly harsh because men are blind to the evil of worshipping other gods. Many, even in the Church, embrace the popular ‘inclusiveness’. God’s judgement of ‘hell fire’ is seen as just OT or ‘victorian’. Such men would happily cut Rev 6 to 20 out of the Bible. Or discard all Scripture! So many see the way of salvation that Almighty God has provided at the high cost of Christ crucified as irrelevant or unnecessary. |
| Deut 211-9 Unsolved murders |
Unsolved murders need some sort of atonement in the nearest city to purge the guilt of innocent blood. |
| Deut 2110-14 Female captives |
A man of Israel was to be allowed to marry a non-Canaanite captive woman after she had changed her clothes, shaved her head and pared her nails. She must also be allowed to grieve for a month. She should never be sold or treated as a slave. |
| Deut 215-17 Rights of firstborn |
If a man has two wives, one loved and one unloved, if the unloved wife bears the first child, he must still be given the double share of the inheritance due to him. |
| Deut 2118-21 Rebellious son |
If a disciplined son remains stubborn, rebellious, a glutton and a drunkard, then the elders of the city shall stone him to death. |
| Deut 2122,23 A man hanged |
If a man has committed a crime punishable by death you shall hang him on a tree. He shall be buried the same day, for a man hanged on a tree is cursed by God. Jesus was ‘hanged on a tree’, but it was for our sin that he willingly propitiated the wrath of God. |
| Deut 22,23 Various laws |
If you find your brother’s animal astray you shall return it to him. A woman shall not wear a man's garment, nor shall a man put on a woman's cloak, for whoever does these things is an abomination to the LORD your God. You can take any bird’s eggs or young, but not the mother. Your roof must have a parapet so no one can fall from it. You shall not sow your vineyard with two kinds of seed. You shall not plow with an ox and a donkey together. You shall not wear cloth of wool and linen mixed together. You shall make yourself tassels on the four corners of the garment. If a man is found lying with the wife of another man, both of them shall die. If a man lies with a betrothed virgin, both shall be stoned to death. If a man seizes an unbetrothed virgin then the man shall pay the father 50 shekels of silver and marry the woman. And he may not ever divorce her. No Ammonite or Moabite shall ever enter the assembly of the Lord, but children in the third generation of an Edomite may enter. You shall bury your excrement in a hole outside the camp. You shall not give up to his master a slave who has escaped.
None of the daughters of Israel shall be a cult prostitute, You may charge a foreigner interest, but you may not charge your brother interest.
If you go into your neighbour's vineyard, you may eat your fill of grapes, |
| Deut 24-26 Various other laws |
These concern marriage, divorce, fighting, fair trading, Amalek, offerings ... This day the LORD your God commands you to do these statutes and rules. You shall therefore be careful to do them with all your heart and with all your soul. |
| Deut 27 Gerizim and Ebal |
Almighty God desires that his people will relate as his children, not as slaves. So in this life he always sets before us a choice. These two mountains, Gerizim and Ebal represent this choice: Blessing or curse, obedience or rebellion. On Mt Ebal Commandments written on stone. Build an altar to the Lord of uncut stone. Offer peace offerings and rejoice. Stand on Mt Gerizim to bless the people: Simeon, Levi, Judah, Issachar, Joseph, and Benjamin. These shall stand on Mt Ebal for the curse: Reuben, Gad, Asher, Zebulun, Dan, and Naphtali. The Levites shall declare to all the men of Israel in a loud voice: Cursed be the man who makes a carved or cast metal image. Cursed be anyone who moves his neighbor's landmark. Cursed be anyone who misleads a blind man on the road. Cursed be anyone who perverts the justice due to the sojourner, the fatherless, and the widow. Cursed be anyone who lies with his father's wife. Cursed be anyone who lies with any kind of animal. Cursed be anyone who lies with his sister or step sister Cursed be anyone who lies with his mother-in-law. Cursed be anyone who strikes down his neighbour in secret. Cursed be anyone who takes a bribe to shed innocent blood. Cursed be anyone who does not confirm the words of this law by doing them. And to each of these declarations the people shall say, “Amen.” |
| Deut 281-14 Blessing for obedience |
If you faithfully obey the voice of the LORD your God, being careful to do all his commandments that I command you today, the LORD your God will set you high above all the nations of the earth. And all these blessings shall come upon you: Blessed shall you be in the city, and blessed shall you be in the field. Blessed shall be the fruit of your womb and the fruit of your ground and the fruit of your cattle, herds and flock. Blessed shall be your basket and your kneading bowl. Blessed shall you be when you come in, and when you go out. Your enemies who rise against you to be defeated before you. The LORD will command the blessing on you in your barns and in all that you undertake. He will bless you in the land that the LORD your God is giving you. The LORD will establish you as a people holy to himself. All the peoples of the earth shall see that you are called by the name of the LORD. The LORD will give the rain to your land in its season. You shall lend to many nations, but you shall not borrow. |
| Deut 2815-68 Curses if disobedient |
If you will not obey the voice of the LORD your God all these curses shall come upon you: The inverse of the first four blessings above. The LORD will send on you curses, confusion, and frustration in all that you undertake to do, until you are destroyed. The LORD will make the pestilence stick to you until he has consumed you. The LORD will make the rain of your land powder. The LORD will cause you to be defeated before your enemies. The LORD will strike you with madness and blindness and confusion of mind. You shall be only oppressed and robbed continually. You shall betroth a wife, but another man shall ravish her. You shall build a house, but you shall not dwell in it. You shall plant a vineyard, but you shall not enjoy its fruit. Your sheep shall be given to your enemies, but there shall be no one to help you. Your sons and your daughters shall be given to another people.
You shall become a horror, a proverb, and a byword |
| Deut 29 Covenant confirmed |
Moses reminds Israel of the covenant of the Law that God made at Horeb. He reminds them of what the faithful Lord had done during the previous 40 years. He reminds them that obedience to God’s laws brings blessing; and the consequence of disobedience is God’s anger, curses and exile. |
| Deut 301-10 Promised restoration |
Having told them that Israel would not keep the law of God and would thus be exiled, Moses tells them that when they return to the LORD your God, you and your children, and obey his voice in all that I command you today, with all your heart and with all your soul, then the LORD your God will restore your fortunes and have mercy on you, and he will gather you again from all the peoples where the LORD your God has scattered you. ... And the LORD your God will circumcise your heart and the heart of your offspring, so that you will love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul, that you may live. |
| Deut 3011-20 Life or death |
See, I have set before you today life and good, death and evil. ... Therefore choose life, that you and your offspring may live, loving the LORD your God, obeying his voice and holding fast to him, for he is your life and length of days, that you may dwell in the land that the LORD swore to your fathers, to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob, to give them. On his own it is impossible for man to obey the commandments, but Moses assures them that with the presence of God, his new life and his word, a man can be righteous. For this commandment that I command you today is not too hard for you, neither is it far off. ... But the word is very near you. It is in your mouth and in your heart, so that you can do it. |
| Deut 311-13 Joshua to be leader |
Moses said, “I am 120 years old today. I am no longer able to go out and come in. The LORD has said to me, You shall not go over this Jordan.’ The LORD your God himself will go over before you. He will destroy these nations before you, so that you shall dispossess them, and Joshua will go over at your head. ... Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the LORD your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you.” Moses also told them that when they had entered the land the Lord had promised them, “At the end of every seven years, ... at the Feast of Booths, ... you shall read this law before all Israel in their hearing ... that they may hear and learn to fear the LORD your God, and be careful to do all the words of this law ... as long as you live in the land that you are going over the Jordan to possess.” |
| Deut 3114 - 32 Moses sings |
When Joshua is commissioned the Lord warns them that this people will rise and whore after the foreign gods among them in the land that they are entering ... then my anger will be kindled against them in that day. And Moses is told to write a song and teach it to the people. Moses also wrote a book of the law to be placed beside the ark as a witness against a rebellious people.
The song of Moses:
When Moses had sung and taught this song, he said: |
| Deut 3248-52 Moses about to die |
That same day the Lord told Moses to go up Mt Nebo and die there. You will view the land of Canaan, which I am giving to the people of Israel for a possession. Because you broke faith with me at the waters of Meribah ... you will not go there. But some 1.500 years later he was seen with Elijah by Peter, James and John on the Mt of Transfiguration talking with Jesus about how is it written of the Son of Man that he should suffer many things and be treated with contempt. Mk 92-13 |
| Deut 33 Moses blesses Israel |
The Lord became king in Jeshurun. Moses blesses each of the tribes (Simeon is joined with Judah. Josh 199 Judg 13) There is none like God, O Jeshurun, who rides through the heavens to your help, through the skies in his majesty. The eternal God is your dwelling place, and underneath are the everlasting arms. And he thrust out the enemy before you and said, ‘Destroy.’ So Israel lived in safety, Jacob lived alone, in a land of grain and wine, whose heavens drop down dew. Happy are you, O Israel! Who is like you, a people saved by the LORD, the shield of your help, and the sword of your triumph! Thus did Moses bless Israel’s future with the Lord God. |
| Deut 34 Moses dies |
Moses climbs Mt Nebo and the Lord shows him all the land that he promised to give to the offspring of Abraham. There he died, aged 120, his eye was undimmed, and his vigour unabated. He was buried by the Lord, but no one knows exactly where. And the people of Israel wept for Moses in the plains of Moab thirty days. There has not arisen a prophet since in Israel like Moses, whom the LORD knew face to face. Under harsh slavery in Egypt, his Levite parents, Amram and Jochebed, saw that he was a fine child. (Exd 22) They were longing for the fulfilment of God’s promise to Abraham that after 400 years they would be released from slavery and be taken to the ‘promised land’. (Gen 1513,14) They called this, their third child, Moses. And he wonderfully fulfilled God’s promise during a long and eventful life.
Now the man Moses was very meek, more than all people who were on the face of the earth. Num 123 |
Joshua [Contents]
Joshua first comes onto the stage of Jewish history in Exd 17 when Moses selects him to lead the battle against Amalek at Rephidim, while he with Aaron and Hur went up the mountain to pray. Amalek is defeated. In Exd 24 Moses goes up Mt Sinai with Joshua, his aide, to receive the Commandments from God. Then in Num 13,14 when they arrived at the border of the promised land, Moses chose Joshua as one of the 12 to go up and spy out the land. Only he and Caleb came back with a favourable report. The other 10 were filled with fear, so God sent all Israel wandering in the desert for 40 years. Joshua is commissioned by God to lead the people in the conquest of the promised land. Deut 328 and 313
Probably the most common difficulty with this book is overcoming the accusation against Almighty God of ethnic cleansing! But it is only difficult if man thinks that God has no right to judge men for their wicked disobedience. God's commands are clear and include 'You shall have no other gods before me'. And that includes Islam.
Was God right to judge the world in the days of Noah? Was he right to destroy Sodom and Gomorrah. Yes, of course he was right and just - he is the Lord Almighty!! When God made his covenant with Abraham, The Lord said to him, "Know for certain that your descendants will be strangers in a country not their own, and they will be enslaved and mistreated four hundred years. But I will punish the nation they serve as slaves, and afterward they will come out with great possessions. You, however, will go to your fathers in peace and be buried at a good old age. In the fourth generation your descendants will come back here, for the sin of the Amorites has not yet reached its full measure."
So the conquest of the Promised Land was not 'ethnic cleansing' but the just judgement of Almighty God.
UK today has legalised what God says is sin. But see lists in Ro 128-32 2 Tim 31-9 2 Pe 21-22 and the consequences.
In the 'last days' there will be a massive increase in disasters - see Math 24. As Christ opens the 7 seals in Revelation we are shown the judgement of God in the Great Tribulation. God will punish wickedness, even if man does not like the idea.
| Joahua 11-18 The Lord calls Joshua to lead Israel |
Get ready to cross the Jordan River into the land I am about to give to them–to the Israelites. ... No one will be able to stand up against you all the days of your life. As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you. Be strong and courageous, because you will lead these people to inherit the land I swore to their forefathers to give them. The Lord then told Joshua how he would enable him to lead in righteousness. An instruction that all leaders in every age would do well to keep diligently: 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. The biggest problem with democracy is that it is based upon popularity, instead of obedience to Almighty God. |
| Joahua 21-24 Rahab and the Spies |
Joshua sent 2 spies Go, look over the land, especially Jericho. They were seen to enter the house of Rahab, the harlot. But the woman had taken the two men and hidden them. Such is the gracious hand of God. She had heard about the Red Sea crossing and the defeat of the Amorite kings and told the spies, "When we heard of it, our hearts melted and everyone's courage failed because of you, for the Lord your God is God in heaven above and on the earth below." Then she made a bargain with them to spare her life. A bargain that would also include her name in the genealogy of Jesus. Math 15 The spies returned to Joshua with the information. |
| Joahua 31 - 424 Crossing the Jordan river |
"When you see the ark of the covenant of the Lord your God, and the priests, ... follow it. Then you will know which way to go, since you have never been this way before. But keep a distance of about a thousand yards between you and the ark; do not go near it." "Consecrate yourselves, for tomorrow the Lord will do amazing things among you." God told Joshua that he was going to drive out all the tribes of Canaan, and would prove it by cutting off the Jordan river, which was in spring flood. As soon as the priests who carried the ark reached the Jordan and their feet touched the water's edge, the water from upstream stopped flowing. It piled up in a heap a great distance away. ... The priests who carried the ark of the covenant of the Lord stood firm on dry ground in the middle of the Jordan, while all Israel passed by until the whole nation had completed the crossing on dry ground. All who entered the promised land had to pass the Ark of the Covenant. They then set up 12 stones (1/tribe) in the middle of the river where the Ark of the covenant had stood, as a memorial - to remember, lest we forget. 42-24 The Lord your God did to the Jordan just what he had done to the Red Sea ... so that you might always fear the Lord your God. |
| Joahua 51-9 Circumcision |
When the Canaanite king heard how the Lord had stopped the Jordan river to allow Israel to cross, their hearts melted and they no longer had the courage to face the Israelites. Note it was not the action of Israel, but the hand of the Lord they feared. Since none of the men born in Sinai had been circumcised, God told Joshua to do so. The Lord said to Joshua, "Today I have rolled away the reproach of Egypt from you." |
| Joahua 510-12 Forty years of Manna stopped |
Israel remained camped in the plains of Jericho until the men were healed.
They celebrated Passover in the 'Promised Land'. The day after the Passover, that very day, they ate some of the produce of the land: unleavened bread and roasted grain. The manna stopped the day after they ate this food. But the care and protection of Almighty God did not end; it just needed to have a new dimension. |
| Joahua 513-15 The Commander ! |
Near Jericho Joshua meets a man with a drawn sword. "Are you for us or for our enemies?" "Neither," he replied, "but as commander of the army of the Lord I have now come." Then Joshua fell facedown to the ground in reverence, and asked him, "What message does my Lord have for his servant?" The commander of the Lord's army replied, (He was not a messenger) "Take off your sandals, for the place where you are standing is holy." And Joshua did so. Quite a meeting ! But scripture is totally silent about any instructions given. |
| Joahua 61-27 Jericho Falls |
Now Jericho was tightly shut up because of the Israelites. No one went out and no one came in. Then the Lord said to Joshua, "See, I have delivered Jericho into your hands, along with its king and its fighting men. March around the city once with all the armed men. Do this for six days. Have seven priests carry trumpets of rams' horns in front of the ark. On the seventh day, march around the city seven times, with the priests blowing the trumpets. When you hear them sound a long blast on the trumpets, have all the people give a loud shout; then the wall of the city will collapse and the people will go up, every man straight in." Joshua and the Israelites obeyed and the walls fell on the 7th day and the 7th circuit when the 7 priests sounded the trumpets and the people shouted. On the instructions of Almighty God (!) They devoted the city to the Lord and destroyed with the sword every living thing in it–men and women, young and old, cattle, sheep and donkeys. Then they burned the whole city and everything in it, but they put the silver and gold and the articles of bronze and iron into the treasury of the Lord's house. This makes the book of Joshua difficult reading. See intro. Only Rahab and all in her house were spared - as promised. Joshua pronounced this solemn oath: "Cursed before the Lord is the man who undertakes to rebuild this city, Jericho: At the cost of his firstborn son will he lay its foundations; at the cost of his youngest will he set up its gates." 500 years later this was fulfilled when Ahab was king and Jericho was rebuilt. 1 Kgs 1634 Rahab married Salmon and entered into the genealogy of David and Jesus. Math 15 Such is the grace and perfect plan of God. |
| Joahua 71-26 The sin of one man can affect the whole nation |
Achan saw a beautiful Babylonian robe and some silver and gold. He knew God's command but did not resist the temptation for riches. No one but God knew that he had kept them for himself. Consequently when Israel came to the next city, Ai, the 3,000 men used to attack were routed and 36 killed. The coveting by one man brought shame on the whole nation and Almighty God. They had to use 'lots' to find the guilty man. Then all Israel stoned him ... And all his family and belongings. Over Achan they heaped up a large pile of rocks. ... Then the Lord turned from his fierce anger. It is instructive how God measures sin and the punishment that he imposes. O to grace how great a debtor Daily I'm constrained to be Let that grace, Lord, like a fetter, Bind my wandering heart to Thee: |
| Joahua 81-29 Ai and all its people destroyed |
By feigning another defeat, Joshua lured all the men of Ai out of the city. Then his hidden men entered city and burned it and Joshua killed all the men. The Lord allowed them to take plunder and livestock for themselves. Ai's king was hanged and then covered with a large pile of rocks. This would not be the last pile of rocks for them to remember the hand of God. |
| Joahua 830-35 Book of the Law read to all on Mt Ebal and Gerizim |
Joshua built an altar of uncut stones and offered sacrifice to the Lord. Then he read all the Law to all the people (including women, children and aliens). There was not yet any 'multi-faith' in Israel. Reading God's commands is one thing, keeping them is another. |
| Joahua 91-27 Gibeonite Deception |
When all the Canaanite kings heard what the Lord had done they formed a coalition. All except Gibeon who pretended to come from a distant country and desired to make a treaty with Israel. But the men of Israel ... did not inquire of the Lord. 3 days later Israel realised they had been tricked, but they did not attack them because of the treaty; but they put them under a curse: You will never cease to serve as woodcutters and water carriers for the house of my God. They agreed. This incident teaches us that discernment has been, and always will be vital in all our personal, church and political affairs. In the kingdom of God we will always be able to trust what people say; but now we have to take care without being overly suspicious. |
| Joahua 101-28 Five Amorite kings killed. Sun stood still for a whole day! |
The Amorite kings took up position against Gibeon for their treaty with Israelites.
Gibeon appeals to Joshua for help, who marches the whole army through the night for surprise attack upon Amorites. The Lord assures them of success. Amorites fled, chased and killed by Israelites. Five kings hid in cave, but they were found and sealed inside. Joshua said to the Lord in the presence of Israel: "O sun, stand still over Gibeon, O moon, over the Valley of Aijalon." So the sun stood still. As the Amorites fled before Israel, the Lord hurled large hailstones down on them from the sky, and more of them died from the hailstones than were killed by the swords of the Israelites. The five kings were brought out, killed by Joshua and hung on 5 trees till evening. Then thrown back into the cave and sealed with large rocks. Joshua said to his army commanders, "Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. Be strong and courageous. This is what the Lord will do to all the enemies you are going to fight." If all this wasn't sufficient, That day Joshua took Makkedah. He put the city and its king to the sword and totally destroyed everyone in it. He left no survivors. Can such carnage be the hand of the Lord God? Was all this really his plan? Did the One who said, "Love your enemies" enable and direct such events? The surprising answer is "Yes!" Men today rarely understand that it was te Almighty God who flooded the whole world less than 1,000 years before Joshua. A flood from which God only saved 8 people. The same God who so hated the sin of Sodom and Gomorrah that he destroyed the cities with fire and only saved Lot and his two daughters. In the centuries after Joshua the Lord God had to punish even his chosen people who had so badly turned away from him. The northern tribes were exiled by Assyria in 722 BC, Judah in 586 BC and again in 70 AD. In his mercy a remnant returned or remained. Today we see his chosen returned to the promised land of Israel. A people who are beginning to repent and turn to the Lord their God. But few Christians see the truth of this. And neither do they see that Almighty God does not change. He has warned us that the last days will be so wicked that He will again bring just judgement upon his creation. Revelation reveals to us that as the Lord opens the 7 seals, blows the 7 trumpets and pours out the 7 bowls of wrath, God will bring upon this earth the Great Tribulation. Jesus himself makes this very clear in Math 24. Only the few who repent and believe in Christ as Redeemer will be saved to rejoice with him for ever in his righteous kingdom. Thus it is not surprising that such books of the Bible - Genesis, Joshua and Revelation - are not understood. And the Lord God is rarely seen as the Almighty. God commands all people everywhere to repent. For he has set a day when he will judge the world with justice by the man he has appointed. He has given proof of this to all men by raising him from the dead. Act 1730b,31 |
| Joahua 1029-43 Southern cities killed |
Then Joshua and all Israel with him moved on from Makkedah to Libnah and attacked it. The Lord also gave that city and its king into Israel's hand. The city and everyone in it Joshua put to the sword. He left no survivors there. And did the same to Lachish, Gezer, Eglon, Hebron, Debir ... from Kadesh Barnea to Gaza and from Goshen to Gibeon. So Joshua subdued the whole region, including the hill country, the Negev, the western foothills and the mountain slopes, together with all their kings. He left no survivors. He totally destroyed all who breathed, just as the Lord, the God of Israel, had commanded. |
| Joahua 111-23 Northern cities killed |
The northern kings formed an alliance to attack Israel. They came out with all their troops and a large number of horses and chariots–a huge army, as numerous as the sand on the seashore. ... The Lord said to Joshua, "Do not be afraid of them, because by this time tomorrow I will hand all of them over to Israel, slain. You are to hamstring their horses and burn their chariots. So Joshua attacked. And the Lord gave them into the hand of Israel. They defeated them and pursued them ... until no survivors were left. ... as the Lord had directed: He hamstrung their horses and burned their chariots. The Israelites carried off for themselves all the plunder and livestock of these cities, but all the people they put to the sword until they completely destroyed them, not sparing anyone that breathed. ... So Joshua took the entire land, just as the Lord had directed Moses, and he gave it as an inheritance to Israel. The following chapter (12) lists all the cities that Joshua defeated.
After reading of all this killing it is not surprising that many discard the OT. |
| Joahua 131-7 When Joshua was old |
When Joshua was old and well advanced in years, the Lord said to him, "You are very old, and there are still very large areas of land to be taken over." Philistines, Geshurites, ... all Lebanon ... |
| Joahua 138 - 1951 211-45 221-34 Detailed allocation of land |
As one of the two faithful spies, Caleb was given Hebron. 146-15 1513-19 Dan had difficulty taking possession of their territory so went up north to Hermon. But there they soon followed Baal. Dan is not mentioned in the tribes in Rev 71-8 Levites (as priests) given towns among all the other tribes. Eastern tribes return home (the Reubenites, the Gadites and the half-tribe of Manasseh). Joshua said to them, "You have done all that Moses the servant of the Lord commanded, ... But be very careful to keep the commandment and the law that Moses the servant of the Lord gave you: to love the Lord your God, to walk in all his ways, to obey his commands, to hold fast to him and to serve him with all your heart and all your soul." Then the land had rest from war. 1415 And I expect they were all very glad. |
| Joahua 201-9 Cities of refuge |
Then the Lord said to Joshua: "Tell the Israelites to designate the cities of refuge, as I instructed you throug Moses, so that anyone who kills a person accidentally and unintentionally may flee there and find protection from the avenger of blood." Note that this is not to escape justice, but to avoid unjust revenge. While in the 'Refuge' he is to stand trial. |
| Joahua 231 - 2433 Joshua's Farewell Challenge |
Joshua summoned all the leaders of Israel, "You yourselves have seen everything the Lord your God has done to all these nations for your sake; it was the Lord your God who fought for you. ... Be very strong; be careful to obey all that is written in the Book of the Law of Moses, without turning aside to the right or to the left. Do not associate with these nations that remain among you; do not invoke the names of their gods or swear by them. You must not serve them or bow down to them. ...
If you turn away and ally yourselves with the survivors of these nations that remain among you and if you intermarry with them and associate with them, then you may be sure that the Lord your God will no longer drive out these nations before you. Instead, they will become snares and traps for you ..." Joshua then reminded them of their history, from God's calling of Abraham, their time in Egypt and the deliverance, to how God enabled them to receive the promised land. Their relationship with Almighty God depended upon keeping the Commandments, especially 'No other gods'. So he told them, "Now fear the Lord and serve him with all faithfulness. Throw away the gods your forefathers worshipped beyond the River and in Egypt, and serve the Lord. But if serving the Lord seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your forefathers served beyond the River, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord." But although the people said to Joshua, "We will serve the Lord our God and obey him." They thought they could also keep their old idols. Joshua said to the people, "You are not able to serve the Lord. He is a holy God; he is a jealous God. He will not forgive your rebellion and your sins. If you forsake the Lord and serve foreign gods, he will turn and bring disaster on you and make an end of you, after he has been good to you." But the people still insisted that they could serve God and keep their idols. So Joshua took a large stone and set it up there under the oak near the holy place of the Lord. "See!" he said to all the people. "This stone will be a witness against us. It has heard all the words the Lord has said to us. It will be a witness against you if you are untrue to your God."
Joshua died aged 110 and was buried in the hill country of Ephraim.
Joshua was keen that the people should remember several events with piles of stones. |
Judges [Contents]
Israel had entered the promised land. Joshua had purged and taken much of Canaan as directed by Almighty God. Many today see this simply as ethnic cleansing, but God had waited 400 years for the sin of the Amorites to reach its full measure (Gen 1513-16). Now the time had come to judge their wickedness. But when Joshua died there still remained significant Canaanite enclaves.
| Judges 11-26 Canaanites slaughtered in Judea |
After the death of Joshua, the Israelites asked the Lord, "Who will be the first to go up and fight for us against the Canaanites?" The Lord answered, "Judah is to go; I have given the land into their hands." Judah and Simeon combined to kill 10,000 Perizzites at Bezek. They also took western part of Jerusalem (121) and then Hebron, which was given to Caleb. (120) Caleb promised his daughter to the man who took Kiriath Sepher. Othniel took it, and married her. She then wisely requested, "Do me a special favor. Since you have given me land in the Negev, give me also springs of water." Then Caleb gave her the upper and lower springs. Judah also captured Gaza, Askelon and Ekron, but he could not drive out the inhabitants of the plain because they had chariots of iron. The house of Joseph struck Bethel with the sword and as promised spared a man and his family who had shown them the way into the city. He went to the Hittites. |
| Judges 127-36 Some failed to conquer |
Manasseh did not drive out the inhabitants of Beth-shean, Taanach, Dor, Ibleam, or Megiddo. Ephraim did not drive out the Canaanites who lived in Gezer. Zebulun did not drive out the inhabitants of Kitron, or Nahalol. Asher did not drive out the inhabitants of Acco, Sidon, Ahlab, Achzib, Helbah, Aphik, or Rehob. Naphtali did not drive out the inhabitants of Beth-shemesh or Beth-anath. The Amorites pressed the people of Dan back into the hill country, for they did not allow them to come down to the plain. Although not driven out many of the Canaanites were enslaved. |
| Judges 21-5 The cost of disobedience |
Now the angel of the Lord went up from Gilgal to Bochim. And he said, "I brought you up from Egypt and brought you into the land that I swore to give to your fathers. I said, I will never break my covenant with you, and you shall make no covenant with the inhabitants of this land; you shall break down their altars.' But you have not obeyed my voice. What is this you have done? So now I say, I will not drive them out before you, but they shall become thorns in your sides, and their gods shall be a snare to you." Israel wept and sacrificed; but they did not repent or obey the word of the Lord. |
| Judges 26-10 Death of Joshua and what followed |
Joshua had died earlier. This brief testimony could have been placed at the start. There can be not greater tribute to a man than what is recorded here: And the people served the Lord all the days of Joshua. This is great leadership. We pray for his likeness in politics today in UK.
But tragically the leadership of Moses and then Joshua did not continue. |
| Judges 211-19 No lasting stability |
Whenever the Lord raised up judges for them, the Lord was with the judge, and he saved them from the hand of their enemies all the days of the judge. For the Lord was moved to pity by their groaning because of those who afflicted and oppressed them. But whenever the judge died, they turned back and were more corrupt than their fathers, going after other gods, serving them and bowing down to them. So began the 'roller-coaster ride' in the relationship between God and Israel. |
| Judges 220 - 36 Nations not driven out |
The Lord did not drive out the following tribes: The five lords of the Philistines, the Hivites on Mt Lebanon, Hittites, Amorites, Perizzites, and Jebusites. ... The King of kings said, "I will use them to test Israel and see whether they will keep the way of the Lord." Israel was comfortable living among them and even inter-married; thus The people of Israel did what was evil in the sight of the Lord. They forgot the Lord their God and served the Baals and the Asheroth. Therefore the anger of the Lord was kindled against Israel. And Israel suffered greatly until they repented. All nations, including UK today, will suffer when they 'forget the Lord their God'. |
| Judges 37-11 Othniel |
The Israelites did evil in the eyes of the Lord ... The anger of the Lord burned against Israel ... So Israel became subject to Aram for 8 years. But when they cried out to the Lord, he raised up for them a deliverer, Othniel son of Kenaz, Caleb's younger brother, who saved them. ... Such was the grace and mercy of the Lord, their God So the land had peace for forty years, until Othniel died. |
| Judges 312-31 Ehud (and Shamgar) |
Once again the Israelites did evil in the eyes of the Lord ... Ammon and Amalek were persuaded by Eglon, king of Moab to attack Israel. So, The Israelites were subject to Eglon king of Moab for eighteen years. Again the Israelites cried out to the Lord, and he gave them a deliverer–Ehud, a left-handed man ... Ehud went to see Eglon and pretended to give him a secret message, but with his left hand stabbed Eglon with short sword hidden on his right thigh. Ehud escaped and raised forces to destroy Moab and killed 10,000 Moabites. The land had peace for eighty years. After Ehud came Shamgar son of Anath, who struck down six hundred Philistines. |
| Judges 41 - 531 Deborah |
After Ehud died, the Israelites once again did evil in the eyes of the Lord. So the Lord sold them into the hands of Jabin ... The commander of his army was Sisera. Because he had nine hundred iron chariots and had cruelly oppressed the Israelites for twenty years, they cried to the Lord for help. What was God's answer to their cries? The prophetess, Deborah - a great lady. She gave Barak a detailed command. The Lord, the God of Israel, commands you: 'Go, take with you ten thousand men of Naphtali and Zebulun and lead the way to Mount Tabor. I will lure Sisera, the commander of Jabin's army, with his chariots and his troops to the Kishon River and give him into your hands.' Barak said to her, "If you go with me, I will go ..." She agreed to do so. The Lord routed Sisera and his 900 iron chariots ... not a man was left! Only Sisera fled on foot; and while resting in Jael's tent, she killed him with a tent peg and a mallet. Israel grew strong and destroyed Jabin, the Canaanite king. With Deborah's song echoing in their ears, the land had peace forty years. |
| Judges 61 - 835 Gideon |
Again the Israelites did evil in the eyes of the Lord, and for seven years he gave them into the hands of the Midianites. ... Midian so impoverished the Israelites that they cried out to the Lord for help. When the Israelites cried to the Lord because of Midian, he sent them a prophet. Gideon was surprised to see an angel especially when greeted with the words: "The Lord is with you, mighty warrior." Gideon spoke for the nation: "If the Lord is with us, why has all this happened to us? Where are all his wonders. ... But now the Lord has abandoned us and put us into the hand of Midian." The Lord turned to him and said, "Go in the strength you have and save Israel out of Midian's hand. Am I not sending you?" But Gideon replied, "But Lord ..." He then asked for a sign; simply asking him to stay till he returned with an offering. Gideon returned. The angel of God was still there. He touched the meat and bread, which fire immediately consumed. Like Jacob (in Gen 3230), Gideon realised who was before him. But the Lord said to him, "Peace! Do not be afraid. You are not going to die." That night he was told to tear down your father's altar to Baal and cut down the Asherah pole beside it and offer his father's bull as a sacrifice. So he did. The town demanded Gideon's death. But Joash correctly said, "If Baal really is a god, he can defend himself when someone breaks down his altar." The Midian and Amalek came marching up to attack Israel. Gideon blew a trumpet. And asked God for a sign - a wet fleece on a dry ground. Then also a dry fleece on dew-soaked ground. That night God did so; again! God then made Gideon reduce his forces to just 300 men with trumpets and empty jars with torches. They attacked! And the enemy obligingly killed each other! Ephraim was somewhat miffed by being excluded from the victory. Gideon refused their request to make him king, but asked for one gold earring from each of their spoils - gladly given. He made an ephod and placed it in Ophrah. All Israel prostituted themselves by worshipping it there, and it became a snare to Gideon and his family. The land enjoyed peace forty years. No sooner had Gideon died than the Israelites again prostituted themselves to the Baals. ... They also failed to show kindness to the family of Gideon. |
| Judges 91-57 God judges Abimelech |
This is a grizzly and detailed account of wickedness and its consequences. Abimelech, a son of Gideon (and a slave girl), bribed Shechem to make him ruler. He murdered his 70 brothers, only Jotham escaped. (Not told how many wives Gideon had!) But nothing escapes the eyes of Almighty God. After Abimelech had governed Israel three years, God sent an evil spirit between Abimelech and the citizens of Shechem, who acted treacherously against Abimelech. In the ensuing intrigue and battles Abimelech and all Shechem died. |
| Judges 101-5 Tola and then Jair lead Israel |
A man of Issachar, Tola son of Puah, ... rose to save Israel. ... He led Israel twenty-three years; then he died. He was followed by Jair of Gilead, who led Israel twenty-two years. Of the events of these 45 years, we are told nothing. |
| Judges 106 - 1215 Jephthah |
Again the Israelites did evil in the eyes of the Lord. They served the Baals and the Ashtoreths, and ... because the Israelites forsook the Lord and no longer served him, he became angry with them. He sold them into the hands of the Philistines and the Ammonites. ... Then the Israelites cried out to the Lord ... But the Lord would not help them until they had got rid of all the foreign gods. Jephthah's father was Gilead, but his mother was a prostitute so the family sent him away. In their distress they had to recall Jephthah and made him ruler. After giving a history lesson to the Ammonite king, who ignored it, Jephthah fought against them and the Lord gave them into his hands. But Jephthah had made a very foolish vow to the Lord that whatever came out of his house to greet him after victory, he would sacrifice it. His daughter came out first! After 2 months he had to fulfil his foolish vow. (See James 512) Gilead also had 'a spat' with Ephraim because they hadn't shared the victory over the Ammonites. 42,000 Ephraimites lost their lives. After Jephthah died, Ibzan, Elon and Abdon led Israel without recorded incident. |
| Judges 131-24 Birth of Samson |
Again the Israelites did evil in the eyes of the Lord, so the Lord delivered them into the hands of the Philistines for forty years. Although no record that Israel turned to the Lord, the angel of the Lord appeared to the childless wife of Manoah, a Danite, to tell her she would have a child. She was to drink no wine and only eat 'clean' food. Also her son must never have a haircut because the boy is to be a Nazirite, set apart to God from birth and he will begin the deliverance of Israel from the hands of the Philistines. When she told her husband what had happened, Manoah prayed that he might also see the angel. He came again and repeated to Manoah the same plan of God. Manoah asks him to stay for a meal. He refuses. Manoah ask his name, the angel replies, "It is beyond understanding." Manoah offers a young goat as a sacrifice. Fire from heaven consumes it and the angel ascends in the flame. Then Manoah knew that he was the angel of the Lord. And Manoah said to his wife, "We shall surely die, for we have seen God." But his wife said to him, "If the Lord had meant to kill us, he would not have accepted a burnt offering." Wise lady. And the woman bore a son and called his name Samson. And the young man grew, and the Lord blessed him. And the Spirit of the Lord began to stir him. And the plan of the Lord Almighty would be fulfilled. |
| Judges 141 - 1520 Samson's marriage |
Against the advice of his parents, Samson marries a girl from the 'uncircumcised Philistines'. At the 7 day feast he challenges them to solve a riddle or give 30 sets of clothes. "Out of the eater came something to eat. Out of the strong came something sweet." His wife betrayed the answer, so Samson slew 30 Philistines in Ashkelon. His wife was given to another. So Samson torched their grain fields and olive orchards. The Philistines threatened Judah so he agreed to be bound and given to the Philistines. He broke the binding easily and struck 1,000 with donkey jawbone. Being thirsty he asked God for water; and by a miracle God provided it. And Samson judged Israel in the days of the Philistines twenty years. |
| Judges 161-3 Samson in Gaza |
He went to Gaza, saw a prostitute and went in to her. The Philistines planned to ambush him in the morning. Samson arose at midnight and lifted out the city gates and their posts and carried them to a hill near Hebron (~40 miles!) |
| Judges 164-31 Delilah, and Samson's death |
Samson loves yet another woman, Delilah. The Philistines bribe her (1,100 pieces of silver) to seek the source of Samson's strength. He gives her a false answer twice. Her betrayal was thus very obvious, but Samson stayed with her. Eventually Samson weakens and tells her the truth. She cuts his hair. The Philistines blind and bind Samson and take him to the Gaza mill prison. His hair grew again. Now the lords of the Philistines gathered to offer a great sacrifice to Dagon their god and to rejoice, and they said, "Our god has given Samson our enemy into our hand." They spoke too soon! Samson prayed, "O Lord God, please remember me and please strengthen me only this once, O God, that I may be avenged on the Philistines for my two eyes. ... Let me die with the Philistines." God answered his prayer by enabling him to collapse the twin pillars that supported the roof on which 3,000 Philistines were gloating and praising Dagon. They all died. |
| Judges 171-13 Micah and Levite |
The events in 17-21 are not chronologically after Samson, but stories that show the awful state of Israel during the Judges period. Micah (not the prophet Micah), makes a silver image, an ephod and household gods. He also makes his son a priest. In those days there was no king in Israel. Everyone did what was right in his own eyes. (Also 2125) |
| Judges 181-31 Danite failure |
The Danites had been allocated land sw of Jerusalem among the Philistines. They did not have the will or the faith to overthrow their iron chariots. So they sought, and found, another easier area - ~100 miles north, Laish near Mt Hermon. On their way the 600 Danite army took the silver image, the ephod and the Levite priest from Micah. They burned Laish, rebuilt it and renamed it Dan. They set up the image. But it seems that at no time did they seek the direction of the Lord God. It is probably significant that the tribe of Dan is not mentioned in Rev 7 among the 144,000 who were sealed. A sad story of men who lived without Almighty God. |
| Judges 191 - 2135 Judgement of Benjamin |
This is another long and terrible story about the sins of Israel. A Levite took a concubine from Bethlehem. She was unfaithful and returned to her father. The Levite went to retrieve her and on their return journey, they stopped at Gibeah where the men came to abuse the Levite (like men of Sodom). When refused they took his concubine and raped her all night till she died! The Levite sent parts of her body to the other tribes of Israel who vowed to destroy the guilty men of Gibeah. But the tribe of Benjamin protected them. So there was all-out war. Some 30,000 men of Israel and 25,000 men of Benjamin died in the battles. Since nearly all the wives of Benjamin were also killed, Israel needed to replace their wives, or Benjamin would become extinct. They couldn't willingly give their daughters because of the vow they had made to avenge the concubines death. So they devised a plan to allow them to be 'captured'. It is all a historical warning to reveal the plight of men who choose to ignore / reject the Lord. Closer to home, over 60 million men lost their lives in two World Wars in the last century each caused by the death or desires of a single man. This century is heading for an even worse loss. Thankfully the next story reveals how, for the righteous, loss becomes a triumph. |
What does this period of the Judges teach us?
Story of Judges is the repeating cycle of Sin, Servitude, Supplication and Salvation.
All nations need a leader under God, not a king instead of God.
Righteousness cannot be inherited, it is always a gift of God to each individual who is willing to repent and believe.
All men are naturally wicked.
The result of wickedness is war, oppression and grief; only temporarily for a few is it ever prosperity and power.
The patience of God is amazing and so is his willingness to quickly forgive, when men call upon him.
The faithfulness of Almighty God is repeatedly proven in his dealing with Israel.
A righteous and holy life, though rare, is seen to be the best way to live.
And conversely if men persist in wickedness, their future is inevitably extremely bleak - both then and now.
Ruth [Contents]
The book of Ruth is a rich jewel.
Being a true story, it is far better than the best fairy tale with a happy ending.
It goes from famine to plenty, from tragedy to relief, from being heathen Gentile to being Chosen,
from tears to eternal joy, from being lost to being redeemed.
| Ruth 11-22 Naomi to Mara |
In the days when the judges ruled, there was a famine in the land. A famine sent by God to be another step in fulfilling his plan of redemption. Elimelech and Naomi lived in Bethlehem (ironically = house of bread) with 2 sons. They went to Moab, lived there for 10 years. Orpah and Ruth married Moabite men. But then their lives were turned upside down. All 3 husbands died. The Lord also sent a small ray of hope that he knew would be sufficient: When she heard in Moab that the Lord had come to the aid of his people by providing food for them, Naomi and her daughters-in-law prepared to return home from there. Naomi never lost the truth that her 'home' was still in Bethlehem. Ruth was determined that it was to become her home too. She said, "Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God. Where you die I will die, and there I will be buried." Orpah stayed in Moab. Naomi and Ruth arrived in Bethlehem, as the barley harvest was beginning. They asked, "Can this be Naomi?" (No husband, and no sons) "Don't call me Naomi," she told them. "Call me Mara, because the Almighty has made my life very bitter. I went away full, but the Lord has brought me back empty. ... The Lord has afflicted me ..." She recognised that the Lord will at times afflict as well as bless. And proves that she had not lost her faith in God, as some might suppose. The people of Bethlehem never called her Mara! It is a lesson many need to learn today when God's blessing seems to evaporate. |
| Ruth 21-23 Kindness rewarded |
A practical and energetic Ruth asks Naomi if she may go and find some 'leftover' grain. As it turned out, she found herself working in a field belonging to Boaz, who was from the clan of Elimelech. (Her father-in-law) This is one of many of God's beautifully planned coincidences. And it was quickly followed by another. The pace of the story is rising quickly! Boaz arrives, notices the new arrival, and asks about her. The foreman replied, "She is the Moabitess who came back from Moab with Naomi. She said, 'Please let me glean and gather among the sheaves behind the harvesters.' She went into the field and has worked steadily from morning till now, except for a short rest in the shelter." Boaz then tells her to stay with his servant girls, and drink water from the jars the men had filled, who had also been told not to touch her. Ruth asked him why he should show favour to a foreigner? He replied, "I've been told all about what you have done for your mother-in-law since the death of your husband ... May you be richly rewarded by the Lord, the God of Israel, under whose wings you have come to take refuge." I suspect this was a little more than 'one good turn deserves another'! Boaz asks her to come over and eat some of his bread and wine. And then later when she rested with the other harvesters, he brought her some roasted grain to eat - enough for her to take some back to Naomi. He also told the harvesters to purposely leave some extra stalks for her to glean. At the end of the day she threshed the gleaned stalks and had an ephah of grain. (~50 lbs). Naomi tells her that Boaz is actually a close relative, a kinsman-redeemer. So Ruth stayed close to the servant girls of Boaz to glean until the barley and wheat harvests were finished. And no doubt under the watchful eye of Boaz! |
| Ruth 31-18 Boaz as kinsman-redeemer |
Near the end of harvest Naomi instructs Ruth how to claim Boaz as kinsman redeemer. "Wash and perfume yourself, and put on your best clothes. Then go down to the threshing floor, but don't let him know you are there until he has finished eating and drinking. When he lies down, note the place where he is lying. Then go and uncover his feet and lie down. He will tell you what to do." There is absolutely nothing unseemly in this. Ruth only asks "I am your servant Ruth," she said. "Spread the corner of your garment over me, since you are a kinsman-redeemer." Boaz was clearly delighted. "The Lord bless you, my daughter ... don't be afraid. I will do for you all you ask ... Although it is true that I am near of kin, there is a kinsman-redeemer nearer than I." He gave her six measures of barley saying, "Don't go back to your mother-in-law empty-handed." When she told Naomi all that had happened, she said, "Wait, my daughter, ... For the man will not rest until the matter is settled today." And Naomi was right. |
| Ruth 41-12 Nearer redeemer declines |
Boaz went to the town gate and waited for the kinsman-redeemer. When he came along he was asked to sit down, together with 10 town elders. Boaz then invited the kinsman-redeemer to redeem the land of Elimelech. "I will redeem it," he said. Then Boaz said, "On the day you buy the land from Naomi and from Ruth the Moabitess, you acquire the dead man's widow, in order to maintain the name of the dead with his property." At this, the kinsman-redeemer said, "Then I cannot redeem it because I might endanger my own estate. You redeem it yourself. I cannot do it." Then Boaz announced to the elders and all the people, 2Today you are witnesses that I have bought from Naomi all the property of Elimelech, Kilion and Mahlon. I have also acquired Ruth the Moabitess, Mahlon's widow, as my wife, in order to maintain the name of the dead with his property, so that his name will not disappear from among his family or from the town records. Today you are witnesses!" Then the elders and all those at the gate said, 2We are witnesses. May the Lord make the woman who is coming into your home like Rachel and Leah, who together built up the house of Israel. May you have standing in Ephrathah and be famous in Bethlehem. Through the offspring the Lord gives you by this young woman, may your family be like that of Perez, whom Tamar bore to Judah." And the Lord delighted to fulfil both these prayers. |
| Ruth 413-22 Ruth and Boaz married |
So Boaz took Ruth and she became his wife. Then he went to her, and the Lord enabled her to conceive, and she gave birth to a son. 'The Lord enabled her to conceive'. In all the time she was married to Mahlon, she was unable to conceive. Their first child was a son named Obed, the father of Jesse, the father of David ... Obed is a shortened Obediah = 'servant of the Lord'. Although Ruth, Naomi, and Boaz anticipated the birth of Obed with great joy, Israel would have to wait for the Son of David, Israel's ultimate Redeemer, Jesus Christ, to bring redemption for the nation. Naomi was thrilled to be a grandmother. |
1 Samuel [Contents]
Samuel was the last of the judges of Israel and the first of the prophets after Moses. When the people demanded to be ruled by a king, God instructed him to choose and anoint Saul as the first king of Israel and then David.
1 and 2 Samuel were written as one book and were only separated in Hebrew because the scroll was too long.
The history reveals how men and women rise and fall; and how much even the best need the forgiveness of God.
They tell the vivid 150 year prophetic story as from God’s view. It is honest and true.
| 1 Sam 11-8 Hannah weeps |
The story has no preamble; it dives into the distress of a lady unable to conceive. Hannah would have known how both Sara and Rachael had also cried to the Lord God. Each year Elkanah took his family to worship and to sacrifice to the Lord of hosts. He always gave to Hannah a double portion, because he loved her, but his second wife Peninnah, who had several children, used to provoke her grievously. Having more than one wife always leads to family problems (Sarai and Hagar, Rachel and Leah). Therefore Hannah wept. This was just the opening paragraph of the book. |
| 1 Sam 19-20 Hannah prays |
In deep distress Hannah went to the Tabernacle to pray, where she made a vow: "O LORD of hosts, if you will indeed look on the affliction of your servant ... then I will give him to the LORD all the days of his life." (First time God called ‘Lord of hosts’, and only recorded vow by a woman.} Eli thought she was drunk. When explained, Eli realised he was wrong and said, "Go in peace, and the God of Israel grant your petition that you have made to him." ... Then the woman went her way and ate, and her face was no longer sad. And in due time she bore a son, Samuel. |
| 1 Sam 121 - 211 Samuel given to the Lord |
Next year, Hannah did not go up to sacrifice with Elkanah. She said she would wait until the child was weaned, so that he may appear in the presence of the LORD and dwell there forever. ... only, may the LORD establish his word. Later, when weaned, Hannah went up with Samuel and a significant sacrifice. There she reminded the Lord saying,"Oh, my lord! As you live, my lord, I am the woman who was standing here in your presence, praying to the LORD. For this child I prayed, and the LORD has granted me my petition that I made to him. Therefore I have lent him to the LORD. As long as he lives, he is lent to the LORD." Hannah’s prayer is then recorded in full. My heart exults in the LORD ... because I rejoice in your salvation. There is none holy like the LORD: there is no rock like our God. The LORD kills and brings to life; he brings down to Sheol and raises up. The LORD makes poor and makes rich; he brings low and he exalts. He will guard the feet of his faithful ones, but the wicked shall be cut off in darkness. The LORD will judge the ends of the earth. Hannah and Elkanah return home, leaving Samuel ministering to the Lord in the presence of Eli the priest. |
| 1 Sam 28-21, 26 Samuel grew |
As Samuel grew, each year Hannah would bring him a little robe. The Lord blessed Hannah with 3 more sons and 2 daughters. And the boy Samuel grew in the presence of the LORD. Now the boy Samuel continued to grow both in stature and in favour with the LORD and also with man. These verses are included within the story about Eli’s evil sons. What a contrast. |
| 1 Sam 212-17, 22-26 Eli had two evil sons |
Now the sons of Eli were worthless men. They treated the offering of the LORD with contempt. When men brought their sacrifices to the Lord they took the best parts, and insisted on having the meat roasted, not boiled. The sons lay with the women who were serving at the entrance to the tent of meeting. Eli rebukes them but they would not listen to the voice of their father. Sons not only evil, but further contempt for the Lord God. (Like Esau Gen 2534) But, as always, there is a price to pay. Behold, the days are coming when I will cut off your strength. All the descendants of your house shall die by the sword of men. Your two sons, Hophni and Phinehas, ... shall die on the same day. And I will raise up for myself a faithful priest. (Samuel, and later Jesus!!) |
| 1 Sam 31-21 God calls Samuel |
As Samuel grew up, what was the general situation in Israel? The word of the LORD was rare in those days; there was no frequent vision. But that was about to change. The lamp of God had not yet gone out. Samuel slept in the temple of the LORD, where the ark of God was. (You can hear the music getting louder as the writer raises the story tempo ...) Three times the Lord calls Samuel, who thought it was Eli calling. Then Eli realised it was the Lord calling so if he called again he told him to say, ‘Speak, LORD, for your servant hears’ God called again, a fourth time. But it wasn’t good news for Eli. "Behold, I am about to do a thing in Israel at which the two ears of everyone who hears it will tingle. On that day I will fulfill against Eli all that I have spoken concerning his house ... I am about to punish his house forever, for the iniquity that he knew, because his sons were blaspheming God, and he did not restrain them ..." In the morning Samuel had to tell Eli what the Lord had said. And Samuel grew, and the LORD was with him and let none of his words fall to the ground ... the LORD revealed himself to Samuel at Shiloh by the word of the LORD. |
| 1 Sam 41-22 Philistines defeat Israel |
Israel lined up to fight against the Philistines. No prayer, no leader mentioned. 4,000 men of Israel killed. Elders asked, "Why?" Either they had not heard what God said to Samuel, or discarded it. They decided to bring the Ark from Shiloh, thinking this would save them. Wrong! Men cannot just use God like the heathen used gods as their mascots. When the Ark arrived, all Israel gave a mighty shout, so that the earth resounded. Did they think this would help them as when Joshua marched around Jericho? How foolish. It merely spurred the Philistines to fight harder. And this time they killed 30,000 men of Israel, the ark of God was captured and Eli’s sons also died. Eli was sitting on his seat by the road watching, for his heart trembled for the ark of God. Eli was 98, blind and dreaded hearing the news of the battle. He knew God’s word to Samuel and expected the death of his two sons. But when he was told that the Philistines had captured the Ark of God, he fell over backwards and broke his neck. At this news, Eli’s daughter-in-law gave birth to a son. She named him ‘Ichabod’, saying, "The glory has departed from Israel!" Almighty God is to be honoured, obeyed and loved; certainly not ‘used’. |
| 1 Sam 51 - 72 The Ark of God where it should not be |
The Philistines put the Ark of God in the temple of Dagon, like a trophy. Next morning their idol, Dagon had fallen face downward on the ground before the ark of the LORD. So they put their chunk of wood back in its place. But the following morning there it was again, on the floor. And this time its head and hands were cut off and put on the threshold. That was not all, for the Philistine still had not learned that the Lord, the God of Israel is not to be mocked by an idol of wood. The hand of the LORD was heavy against the people of Ashdod, and he terrified and afflicted them with tumours, both Ashdod and its territory. The lords of the Philistines decided that the Ark should be moved to Gath. But the Lord caused the people of Gath to break out in tumours. Being slow to learn who is the Almighty, they sent the Ark to Ekron, where they too broke out in tumours. The ark of the LORD was in the country of the Philistines seven months. Eventually the Philistines realised that Dagon was no match for the Lord God. So they sent away the Ark of the Lord, together with a guilt offering of 5 golden tumours and 5 golden mice. The put the Ark and their offering on a new cart. They took two freshly calved cows, took away their calves, yoked them to cart and released them. They reasoned that if the cows took the cart to its own land, to Beth-shemesh, then it is he who has done us this great harm. And to their great surprise the cows went straight up to Beth-Shemish, lowing as they went. After grateful Israelites offered the cows as a sacrifice to the Lord, the Ark was taken to Kiriath-jearim, and kept in the house of Abinadab for 20 years. But all the house of Israel lamented after the LORD, because of the Philistine domination. |
| 1 Sam 73,4 Need true repentance |
Samuel told Israel: "If you are returning to the LORD with all your heart, then put away the foreign gods and the Ashtaroth from among you and direct your heart to the LORD and serve him only, and he will deliver you out of the hand of the Philistines." And Israel did so; they served the LORD only. |
| 1 Sam 75-17 Mizpah |
Samuel gathered the people at Mizpah where they fasted and confessed their sin. When the Philistine heard that Israel had gathered, they prepared to attack them. Samuel cried out to the LORD for Israel, and the Lord answered him. ... The LORD thundered with a mighty sound that day against the Philistines and threw them into confusion, and they were defeated before Israel. Samuel set up a stone and named it ‘Ebenezer’ (= till now the Lord has helped us’) So the Philistines were subdued and did not again enter the territory of Israel. And the hand of the LORD was against the Philistines all the days of Samuel. The cities that the Philistines had taken from Israel were restored to Israel. |
| 1 Sam 81-22 Demand for a king |
Samuel was a good and godly judge in Israel, but his two sons were evil. He appointed them as judges, but did nothing to stop their corruption. So the elders of Israel asked Samuel to appoint a king, like in other countries. This displeased him, but he prayed to the Lord who said, "Obey the voice of the people in all that they say to you, for they have not rejected you, but they have rejected me from being king over them ..." Only you shall solemnly warn them and show them the ways of the king who shall reign over them."
So he warned the people that a king will "Take ... Take ... Take ... And in that day you will cry out because of your king, whom you have chosen for yourselves, but the LORD will not answer you in that day." The people refused to listen to the warning and still demanded a king. Samuel again asked the Lord what he should do. He told him, “Obey their voice.” |
| 1 Sam 91 - 1027 Saul chosen as king |
Kish, a Benjaminite, a man of wealth, had a son named Saul, a handsome young man ... he was taller than any of the people. Kish had lost some of his donkeys and sent Saul to search for them. When he could not find them, his servant suggested they should ask a certain ‘man of God’. The day before, God had told Samuel that next day a young Benjaminite would come looking for his donkeys. As God had ordained, they met, and Samuel anointed him. He also told him that he would find the donkeys at Rachel’s tomb, to accept two loaves of bread from men at the oak of Tabor, and that he would meet a group of prophets prophesying. As Saul left Samuel God gave him another heart. And all these signs came to pass that day. Saul told his uncle all that had happened except about the matter of the kingdom and the anointing. Samuel called Israel to Mizpah to chose a king. He again warned them: "Today you have rejected your God, who saves you from all your calamities and your distresses, and you have said to him, ‘Set a king over us’." Then they cast lots by tribe, clan and finally family till Saul was chosen. And all the people shouted, "Long live the king!" Then Samuel told the people the rights and duties of the kingship, and he wrote them in a book and laid it up before the LORD. But neither kings nor people heeded it. Samuel sent all the people home. Saul went to his home in Gibeah and with him went men of valour whose hearts God had touched. |
| 1 Sam 111-15 Ammonites defeated |
The Ammonites besieged Jabesh-Gilead and would only accept a peace treaty if they agreed that all the men had their right eye gouged out. The Spirit of God rushed upon Saul when he heard these words, and his anger was greatly kindled. All Israel came out as one man. (330,000). And they struck down all the Ammonites. Then Samuel called all the men to Gilgal and there they made Saul king before the Lord. |
| 1 Sam 121-25 Samuel’s farewell |
1. Behold, I have obeyed your voice ... and have made a king over you. 2. People witnessed he had judged Israel justly, no fraud. 3. If both you and the king who reigns over you will follow the LORD your God, it will be well. But if you will not obey the voice of the LORD, ... then the hand of the LORD will be against you and your king. 4. The Lord sent thunder and rain to prove that the people’s wickedness was great. 5. Serve the LORD with all your heart ... fear the LORD and serve him faithfully with all your heart. For consider what great things he has done for you. But if you still do wickedly, you shall be swept away, both you and your king. ~300 years later the Lord sent the northern Israel into permanent exile (Assyria). ~400 years later Judah was exiled to Babylon for 48 years (586-538BC). Both had become wicked and rejected the Lord and his prophets. So the Lord kept his word to Samuel - as he always does! |
| 1 Sam 131 - 1422 Saul .v. Philistines |
When Saul had reigned 2 years he chose 2,000 to serve under him at Michmash and 1,000 under Jonathan at Gibeah. Jonathan defeated the garrison at Geba. This provoked the Philistines to muster 30,000 chariots and 6,000 horsemen to fight Israel. Saul waited 7 days at Gilgal for Samuel to come to offer a burnt offering to encourage a very frightened Israel. But the old man did not appear, so Saul offered the sacrifice himself. When Samuel arrived he told Saul “You have done foolishly. You have not kept the command of the LORD your God, ... your kingdom shall not continue. The LORD has sought out a man after his own heart.” Saul only had 600 men. But one day, without telling Saul, Jonathan said to the young man who carried his armour, “Come, let us go over to the garrison of these uncircumcised. It may be that the LORD will work for us, for nothing can hinder the LORD from saving by many or by few.” The two men climbed a rocky crag that separated them from the Philistine garrison, who, when they saw them, mocked them. Jonathan then killed 20 and the Lord caused an earthquake, which caused great panic among the Philistines. Saul and all the Israelites who had hidden themselves then went out to defeat the fleeing enemy. So the LORD saved Israel that day. |
| 1 Sam 1424-46 Saul’s rash vow |
Before going out to fight Saul made a foolish vow/law: “Cursed be the man who eats food until it is evening and I am avenged on my enemies.” The forest through which the Philistines fled dripped with honey. But fearing the vow, none of Saul’s men ate it. But Jonathan had not heard of the vow and sensibly ate the honey. That evening, having feasted their victory, Israel enquired of the Lord if they should continue against the Philistines. But the Lord did not answer. Casting lots to see who had sinned, the lot fell upon Jonathan who had eaten the honey. Saul said he must therefore die, Jonathan agreed, but the people did not agree. So the people ransomed Jonathan. Saul was foolish because: He had not sought the Lord before making such a vow. With sufficient energy, Israel could have destroyed the Philistines. Let your yea be yea; and your nay, nay; lest ye fall into condemnation. James 511 Why should a complete fast help Saul to win a fight against the Philistines? I cannot yet see Saul’s motive in making such a vow. It was only the threat of a civil rebellion that made Saul admit he was wrong and annul the foolish vow. |
| 1 Sam 1447-52 Saul, a man of war |
When Saul had taken the kingship over Israel, he fought against all his enemies on every side, against Moab, Ammon, Edom, Philistines, Amalek. Wherever he turned he routed them. And he did valiantly. ... There was hard fighting against the Philistines all the days of Saul. It seems that for that generation all hope of peace was extinguished. |
| 1 Sam 151-35 God orders destruction of Amalek Saul disobeys |
In today’s world, where God’s just judgement of evil is disavowed and he is seen only as a God of love, his instruction to Samuel for Saul to completely destroy all of Amalek is extraordinary. God had not forgotten that the Amalekites had attacked the weak and the stragglers as they crossed Sinai after escaping from Egypt some five centuries earlier. Then the LORD said to Moses, “Write this as a memorial in a book and recite it in the ears of Joshua, that I will utterly blot out the memory of Amalek from under heaven.” Exd 1714 and Deut 2517-19 Saul fights Amalek and destroys them all; except he keeps the best of their flocks and he spares Agag, their king. Saul even set up a monument to himself to commemorate his achievement. But God and Samuel were angry with Saul. While Saul admitted he had sinned he made no effort to kill Agag; so Samuel had to slay him. Partial repentance that is riddled with excuses has no value before the Lord. Saul and Samuel would never meet again. Saul never really had a heart for God. And the LORD regretted that he had made Saul king over Israel. Some may think that this might imply that the Lord made a mistake in choosing Saul. He didn’t. God cannot make a mistake! He knew what Saul would do and fail to do. And he warned Israel of their foolishness in wanting a king; but the people refused to listen. God chose the best ‘head and shoulders’ man - and shows us that the best man can never be good enough. He will always fail. The next king, king David, would also fail. But his repentance was complete and real, so he was also forgiven - completely. Amalek was the grandson of Esau. |
| 1 Sam 161-13 David anointed king |
Although Samuel never went to see Saul, he still grieved (prayed?) over him. One day
The LORD said to Samuel, “How long will you grieve over Saul, since I have rejected him from being king over Israel?” Then he told him to go and anoint one of the sons of Jesse, the Bethlehemite and to make a sacrifice there so that Saul would not know. The question was, which son? Eliab was the obvious choice (probably looked like Esau and Saul). The Lord had to tell Samuel not to look on his outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart. Seven of Jesse’s sons came before Samuel, but none were the Lord’s choice. The youngest son, David , was still out keeping the sheep. He was God’s choice. Samuel anointed him in the midst of his brothers. And the Spirit of the LORD rushed upon David from that day forward. Scripture is short on detail here! See David in website article ‘7 Leaders’ (then use return arrow to return here) |
| 1 Sam 1614-23 David calms Saul |
These verses open with the greatest disaster a man can experience: Now the Spirit of the LORD departed from Saul, and a harmful spirit from the LORD tormented him. Unrepented disobedience has a terrible effect; Saul is now tormented, he has lost the protection of the Lord God. His servants suggest music to calm him in times of trouble. David, 'the giant killer' is recommended, a son of Jesse the Bethlehemite, who is skillful in playing, a man of valour, a man of war, prudent in speech, and a man of good presence, and the LORD is with him. So he came to Saul. And whenever the harmful spirit from God was upon Saul, David took the lyre and played it with his hand. So Saul was refreshed and was well, and the harmful spirit departed from him. |
| 1 Sam 171-58 David slays Goliath |
This great event must have taken place before the previous paragraph. Saul would not have had to ask who the Goliath slayer was (1755) after David so often played his lyre to calm Saul’s troubled mind (1621,22). Even historical scripture is not always chronological when it is helpful to put events together. The Philistines stood on the mountain on the one side, and Israel stood on the mountain on the other side, with a valley between them. The Philistines thought they could solve this stalemate with a challenge for any Jew to fight their giant, Goliath. But the proud giant made one catastrophic mistake he challenged Almighty God! “I defy the ranks of Israel this day.” David volunteers to fight him saying, “Your servant has struck down both lions and bears, and this uncircumcised Philistine shall be like one of them, for he has defied the armies of the living God. The LORD who delivered me from the paw of the lion and from the paw of the bear will deliver me from the hand of this Philistine.” This was a big risk by Saul. A shepherd youth alone against a mighty armoured ‘tank’. But he wasn’t alone. Saul agreed - no other volunteers. The Philistine said to David, “Am I a dog, that you come to me with sticks?” And the Philistine cursed David by his gods.” David said to the Philistine, “You come to me with a sword and with a spear and with a javelin, but I come to you in the name of the LORD of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied. This day the LORD will deliver you into my hand, and I will strike you down and cut off your head ... that all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel, and that all this assembly may know that the LORD saves not with sword and spear. For the battle is the LORD'S, and he will give you into our hand.” And the name of the Lord of hosts prevailed. He revealed Goliath’s one weak spot, 2" of forehead over which there was no armour. David only needed one sling-shot. And Goliath was dead! He didn’t need the other 4 stones (but note there was no vain self-confidence). Israel then slew the fleeing Philistines all the way to Gath and plundered their camp. There is not a hint in the scriptures that Israel were in any way grateful to the Lord. In the middle of the story (1728-30) we are shown how much Eliab hated his youngest brother. (Probably his step brother). Similar to Cain and Abel, and also Jacob and Esau, and Jacob’s sons who hated their brother Joseph. Jealousy and favouritism are often dangerous to family relationships. Another lesson in this story is don’t try to fight in someone else’s armour. 1738-40 |
| 1 Sam 181-5 David and Jonathan |
Both Saul and Jonathan loved David. (1621 181,2) Jonathan recognised David’s courage and ability, made a covenant with him and gave him his armour, sword, bow and belt. And David soon learned to make good use of these new weapons. |
| 1 Sam 186-30 Saul jealous |
David’s success with Goliath and other battles were inspired by the Lord God. Saul could have been glad to have such an inspired and capable leader; but he chose not to be. Deprived of the Spirit of God because of his disobedience, he allowed overwhelming jealousy to rule his life. Saul became so angry when the top song of the day was “Saul has struck down his thousands, and David his ten thousands” that he even tried to kill David. He twice failed - David was much too quick for the angry king. Now also fearful, he sent David away. And hoping the Philistines would kill him he offered David his eldest daughter, Michal, as wife if he could bring him 100 Philistine foreskins. So David brought him 200 ! Michal became his wife and Saul became even more afraid of David. Without the Lord, jealousy ruled and it destroyed a good friendship (1621). Saul spent the rest of his life trying to kill David. He failed. |
| 1 Sam 191 - 2042 Saul wants to kill David |
Saul tells all his servants to kill David. Jonathan persuades him that this was sinful and undeserved. Saul listened to the voice of Jonathan. Saul swore, “As the LORD lives, he shall not be put to death.” So David returned to continue serving Saul. But it wasn’t long before David struck the Philistines and Saul’s jealousy was aroused again. David eluded his spear and escaped to his home. Michal warned him that Saul intended to kill him in the morning and let him down from a window. So David escaped and went to Samuel at Ramah. Saul twice sent servants to get him but when they came they prophesied. Finally Saul came himself, and he also prophesied. We are not told what any of them prophesied. So David escaped again and began about a decade of being ‘on the run’ from Saul. 201-42 is a detailed account that affirms the lasting friendship of David and Jonathan. The crunch with Saul also came to a conclusion with the intriguing story of how Jonathan could tell him if Saul still wanted to kill him. He did. Saul was probably jealous of their friendship, as well as David’s greater success in fighting the Philistines. So Jonathan and David confirm their covenant and had to say good-bye with tears. They would only meet once more. |
| 1 Sam 201-9
David at Nob 1 Sam 216-23 Saul slays the priests |
At Nob, the priests were led by Ahimelech, the brother of Ahijah, Saul’s spiritual advisor. Being unsure of his loyalty, David lied to obtain bread. Only ‘holy’ bread, but still given 5 loaves. Also given Goliath’s sword which had been preserved there. One problem: Doeg, the Edomite and chief herdsman to Saul, witnessed these gifts. Doeg’s told Saul who summoned Ahimelech and all the priests to Gibeah. His guards refused to slay the priests, but Doeg willingly did so. Only Abiathar escaped and fled to tell David what had happened, and was invited to stay under David’s protection. |
| 1 Sam 2110 - 225 David flees |
David went to the Philistine city of Gath where he had to pretend madness when taken before Achish the king, who sent him away. After this narrow escape, he went to the cave of Adullam where everyone who was in distress, and everyone who was in debt, and everyone who was bitter in soul, gathered to him. And he became commander over them. And there were with him about four hundred men. This included Jesse and his immediate family. So David went to Moab, where his grandmother, Ruth, had come from, and asked the king if he would care for his parents. David was told by the prophet Gad to depart into the land of Judah. So he took his men and found refuge in the forest of Hereth. Never a dull moment; and this was just the start! |
| 1 Sam 231-14 David saves Keilah |
The Philistines attacked Keilah (a walled city 18 miles SW of Jerusalem). David was incensed, but first asked God whether he should save the city. God said, “Yes”. But his men were afraid, God confirmed he should attack. He did. And God gave the Philistines into his hand. Saul heard about this deliverance and saw it as an opportunity to catch David. But David had good intelligence and knew Saul’s intent. So he enquired of God if the men of Keilah would surrender David to Saul. “Yes”. So David and his men (now 600) promptly left. And David remained in the strongholds in the wilderness of Ziph. And Saul sought him every day, but God did not give him into his hand. This incident reveals that David never presumed God’s protection, but continually sought God’s directions as to where to go and what to do. |
| 1 Sam 2315-18 Jonathan and David strengthened in the Lord |
David had gone to Horesh in the wilderness of Ziph. And Jonathan, Saul's son, rose and went to David at Horesh, and strengthened his hand in God. He also confirmed that Saul my father shall not find you. You shall be king over Israel. How did Jonathan seem to find him so easily? The Lord and David desired this. |
| 1 Sam 2319-29 David escapes again |
Ziphites tell Saul where David and his men are hiding in the wilderness of Maon. Saul went to find him on one side of the mountain, while David escapes on the other side. Saul told of a Philistine attack, so left off chasing David, who went to Engedi. Another example of God’s care and protection. |
| 1 Sam 241-22 David spares Saul’s life |
Saul again tries to find David in Engedi. He relieves himself in a cave where David and his men are hiding! David refuses to harm Saul. Only cuts off the corner of his robe. But David’s heart struck him because he had cut off a corner of Saul's robe. He had cut off a tassel that was to remind the wearer of the commands of God. Num 1538,39
After Saul left, David calls Saul and reveals proof saying, “Why do you listen to the words of men who say, ‘Behold, David seeks your harm’? Behold, this day your eyes have seen how the LORD gave you today into my hand in the cave. ... I have not sinned against you, though you hunt my life to take it. May the LORD judge between me and you ... But my hand shall not be against you.” Saul wept and admitted that you are more righteous than I. ...Then Saul went home, but David and his men went up to the stronghold. David had learned that Saul’s word was not to be trusted. Given such an unsought opportunity to harm an enemy, what would I do? How would I speak to him? David gives us a good example to follow. |
| 1 Sam 251 Samuel dies |
Now Samuel died. And all Israel assembled and mourned for him. A simple statement A sad day that marked a profound loss to the nation of Israel. |
| 1 Sam 252-44 Nabal and Abigail |
Nabal and his wife Abigail described: The woman was discerning and beautiful, but the man was harsh and badly behaved. Nabal insulted David and foolishly refused to help him. Abigail immediately apologised and brought sheep, bread and wine on several donkeys. About ten days later the LORD struck Nabal, and he died. And Abigail became David’s wife. This chapter is a masterclass in good story telling. David also took Ahinoam of Jezreel as his wife. Saul had given Michal to Palti. |
| 1 Sam 261-25 David spares Saul again |
Ziphites tell Saul where David is hiding in Gibeah. David came to Saul’s camp and with Abishai. During the night they crept up to Saul and took his spear and a jar of water. David had to stop Abishai from killing him repeating, “The LORD forbid that I should put out my hand against the LORD'S anointed.” From a distant hill David called to Abner, Saul’s army commander, “Why then have you not kept watch over your lord the king?” Saul recognised David’s voice and again admits that he has sinned. Conclusion? The LORD rewards every man for his righteousness and his faithfulness, for the LORD gave you into my hand today, and I would not put out my hand against the LORD'S anointed. David invites one of Saul’s young men to come and collect his spear. Saul then went home. But David still did not trust Saul. |
| 1 Sam 271-12 David goes to Gath |
David with his two wives and 600 men went to Achish in Gath, for he reasoned correctly that Saul would not come to seek him there. Then he asked if he could go to one of the other Philistine towns, he was given Ziklag. He and his men would make raids against the Geshurites and the Amalekites, sparing no one. When he returned with the booty he pretended it was from the Negeb of Judah. And amazingly Achish trusted David. |
| 1 Sam 281-25 Saul goes to a Medium |
In those days the Philistines gathered their forces for war, to fight against Israel. And ironically Achish agreed to make David his bodyguard for life. Saul was frightened. Samuel had died; so who could go to for advice? So he went in disguise to a medium at En-dor at night. He asked the woman to bring up Samuel. So she did. Then Samuel said to Saul, “Why have you disturbed me by bringing me up?” Saul told him about the Philistine army. And Samuel said, “Why then do you ask me, since the LORD has turned from you and become your enemy? ... The LORD will give the army of Israel also into the hand of the Philistines.” Then Saul fell at once full length on the ground, filled with fear because of the words of Samuel. |
| 1 Sam 29, 30 Philistines reject David Amalekites burn Ziklag David Kills Amalekites |
Now the Philistines had gathered all their forces at Aphek and their lords did not approve of David’s Hebrews being in their army, so sent them back to Ziglag. There they found that the Amalekites had burned the city and captured all the women and children. David inquired of the Lord, “Shall I pursue after this band? Shall I overtake them?” He answered him, “Pursue, for you shall surely overtake and shall surely rescue.” So David and the 600 set out. A young Egyptian, a servant of an Amalekite had been left to die in the desert 3 days earlier. He showed David where they were camped and celebrating. David kills all but 400 who escaped on camels, and recovered all that they had taken from Ziklag and much more - including all the women and children. David gave part of the spoils to his friends in southern Judah. |
| 1 Sam 311-13 Saul dies |
Meanwhile in the battle between Saul and the Philistines, Jonathan is killed and Saul so badly wounded he killed himself. 3 of his sons were also killed. Philistines found Saul’s body and fastened it to the wall in Bethshan. Valiant men from Jabesh-Gilead arose and took his body from the wall and buried it under a tamarisk tree in Jabesh. |
2 Samuel [Contents]
| 2 Sam 11-27 David laments |
David returned to Ziklag and after 2 days an Amalekite came with the news of Saul and Jonathan’s death and with Saul’s crown. The Amalekite boasted he had killed Saul (at his request) expecting a reward. But David had a young man execute him, for he had killed the Lord’s anointed. David’s poetic lament is recorded in full and heart-rending. He asks “How are the mighty fallen?” But he does not answer the question. Only Almighty God can reveal why many events happen or when they do.. |
| 2 Sam 21-11 Two kings |
David enquired of the Lord, “Shall I go up into any of the cities of Judah?” And the LORD said to him, “Go up ... to Hebron.” And Judah came up and anointed him king. Saul had for many years considered David as his enemy. But David did not reciprocate this attitude. Now he made opportunity to show kindness to the men of Jabesh-Gilead. God loved us while we were yet enemies. Ro 5 But Abner, the commander of Saul’s army made Ishbosheth, the son of Saul, king. He reigned over Israel for 2 years. But the next 2 chapters reveal that the division would be bitter and costly. |
| 2 Sam 212 - 412 The bitter division |
Abner and Joab met either side of a pool. They agreed that 12 young men from each side should fight and kill each other. They did. A grizzly way to start a battle. Joab’s brother, Asahel was as swift of foot as a wild gazelle, and soon caught up with Abner. But Abner killed him. Asahel’s brothers, Joab and Abishai met Abner at a hill in Gibeon. Abner ‘sued for peace’. David lost 20 men, Abner had lost 360. There was a temporary lull in the battle. But the war continued in which David grew stronger and Abner (and Ishbosheth) grew weaker. Ishbosheth criticised Abner for using his father’s concubine. So Abner changed sides and went over to David who accepted him and sent him on his way in peace. When Joab returned from a successful raid and was told about Abner, he sent a runner after Abner with a message asking him to return. When he returned, Joab and Abishai killed Abner. David did not know about this ‘blood killing’, and mourned for Abner. He wept and fasted for Abner. When Ishbosheth heard about Abner’s death his courage failed and all Israel was dismayed. He was soon murdered while in his bed. The murderers brought Ishbosheth’s head to David, who promptly executed them as he had the Amalekite who killed Saul. He put the king’s head in Abner’s tomb. Thus ended two years of very un-civil war. |
| 2 Sam 51-5 David anointed king |
Then all the tribes of Israel came to David at Hebron and said, “Behold, we are your bone and flesh ... the LORD said to you, ‘You shall be shepherd of my people Israel, and you shall be prince over Israel.’” So all the elders made David king over all Israel and he made a covenant with them. He reigned for 7 years in Hebron and a further 33 years in Jerusalem. |
| 2 Sam 56-16 Defeats Jebusites |
His first action as king was to drive out the over confident Canaanite Jebusites from Jerusalem. With help from Hiram the king of Tyre, David built himself a house. He also took more concubines and wives. |
| 2 Sam 517-25 Philistines defeated twice |
The Philistines did not like David becoming king so they attacked him in the Valley of Rephaim and were defeated, leaving their idols behind them. Then they attacked again and were defeated. Each time David inquired of the Lord if and how he should fight them. Each time God’s answer was yes. The second time he was instructed to go round and attack from the rear when he hear the sound of marching in the tops of the Balsam trees. And David did as the LORD commanded him, and struck down the Philistines from Geba to Gazer. |
| 2 Sam 61-23 Ark taken to Jerusalem |
With enthusiasm, David mustered 30,000 chosen men and a new cart to carry the Ark from the house of Abinadab. But God had commanded that the Ark be carried on poles. Exd 2510-16 On some rough ground the oxen stumbled and Uzzah put out his hand to the Ark of God. So God struck him down there because of his error. David thought he was doing good, even improving on God’s command; so he was angry. He was afraid of the Lord that day and he said, “How can the Ark of the Lord come to me?” Not knowing what to do next, the Ark remained in the house of Obed-edom for 3 months. And the LORD blessed Obed-edom and all his household. It is easy for us to see what was wrong, but David was so pleased with his nice new cart to honour the Lord. When he realised the problem, he made certain God’s command was obeyed and with wild dancing and sacrificing he brought the Ark to the tent he had pitched in Jerusalem. When he had finished making his offerings to the Lord, he blessed the people in the name of the LORD of hosts and distributed among all the people. (The offerings were not burnt up but the meat was given to the people to eat, together with bread and fruit cakes). But Michal, David’s wife, had observed all the celebrations - especially the ‘vulgar’ dancing - with disdain and despised him. From that day she ceased to be his wife. |
| 2 Sam 71-29 Desire to build Temple God’s covenant to David |
David asks Nathan about the fact that he lived in a cedar house and God had given him rest from fighting and defeating all his enemies, but the Ark of God dwells in a tent. Initially Nathan agreed that he should build a Temple, but that same night God said “You shall say to my servant David, ‘Thus says the LORD of hosts, I took you from the pasture, from following the sheep, that you should be prince over my people Israel. And I have been with you wherever you went and have cut off all your enemies from before you. And I will make for you a great name, like the name of the great ones of the earth. And I will appoint a place for my people Israel and will plant them, so that they may dwell in their own place and be disturbed no more ... I will raise up your offspring after you, who shall come from your body, and I will establish his kingdom. He shall build a house for my name, and I will establish the throne of his kingdom forever’.” Thus God promises David that Jesus, the Son of God, would be ‘great David’s greater Son’.who would come and be crucified. But he would rise from the dead and return as King of his righteous and eternal kingdom. What was David’s reaction to such a promise? Therefore you are great, O LORD God. For there is none like you, and there is no God besides you, according to all that we have heard with our ears. And who is like your people Israel, the one nation on earth whom God went to redeem to be his people, making himself a name and doing for them great and awesome things by driving out before your people, whom you redeemed for yourself from Egypt, a nation and its gods? And you established for yourself your people Israel to be your people forever. ... And now, O Lord GOD, you are God, and your words are true, and you have promised this good thing to your servant. God revealed to his servant that all his word was true and was reliable then and for all eternity. God’s word was a covenant that would last much, much longer than even cedar. At the Cross, at the Cross ... Firm as his throne, his promise stands, And he can well secure What I’ve committed to his hands, Till the decisive hour. Then will he own my worthless name Before his Father’s face; And in the new Jerusalem, Appoint my soul a place. |
| 2 Sam 81-18 David wins battles |
And the LORD gave victory to David wherever he went ... and David administered justice and equity to all his people. This is a good summary of chapter 8. He systematically defeated the Philistines, Moab, Zobah (and Syria when they tried to help them), Edom and Ammon. From each of them he gained gold, which he dedicated to the Lord), also silver, bronze and servants. Most men who are successful in battle or finance abuse their power. David chose not to do so. |
| 2 Sam 91-13 Kindness to Mephibosheth |
With all his success David asks, “Is there still anyone left of the house of Saul, that I may show him kindness for Jonathan's sake?” He would have loved to share his victories with Jonathan. The one survivor of Saul’s family was a cripple in both feet, Mephibosheth. So David insisted that for the rest of his life he should eat at his table like one of the king’s sons, and his servants would till his land and bring him the fruits. That is kindness. |
| 2 Sam 101-19 Ammon and Syria defeated |
Ammon’s folly created a needless war like WW1 (which then also caused WW2). 1000's die because Ammonites completely misunderstood David’s compassion. And then pride prevented their stopping the war they had started. Imagine how different the world might have been without the two world wars. Without the Lord as King, it seems man will never learn. Deaf to God and blind to history. |
| 2 Sam 111 - 1225 David’s adultery and murder |
This is a sad detailed story of how lust led to murder. It is recorded as a warning that even the most righteous and gifted leader can fall to temptation that should have been stopped at the first glimpse. Though he thoroughly repented of his double sin, there was still a price to pay. David was never the same man afterwards. The son born to adultery died. Bathsheba became his wife and bore Solomon, whom the Lord loved and gave great wisdom. But he also led Israel astray with hundreds of foreign, idol worshipping wives. |
| 2 Sam 1226-31 Ammonites defeated |
Joab fought against the Ammonites and took the royal city. He sent a message to David to gather more troops and come and defeat the Ammonites and thus get the credit for victory. David agreed. The fought and won. The Ammonite gold crown that weighed 1 talent (75 lbs ~£2m) was put on David’s head. The defeated people were used as slaves. David returned to Jerusalem. But the victory really belonged to Joab |
| 2 Sam 13 - 20 Family problems |
These 8 chapters tell a long and miserable story that begins with incest when Amnon rapes Tamar, both children of David. Absalom (another of David’s sons) kills Amnon and is exiled. He conspires and tries to make himself king. David has to flee Jerusalem. Absalom is killed by Joab. David weeps. What does the Lord teach us? Why is this part of scripture? Sin does more than affect one person at one time; it seems to multiply and bring ever increasing misery. All sin requires that we repent and plead the atoning sacrifice of Christ to cover it. See hymn ‘Jesu, lover of my soul ...’ |
| 2 Sam 211-14 Justice for Gibeon |
There was famine for 3 years and David sought the face of the Lord to determine why? The Lord told him that Saul had broken Joshua’s covenant with Gibeon (a remnant of the Amorites) Josh 93-27 So David asked Gibeon how he might atone for this. They said they didn’t want gold, but 7 of Saul’s sons so that they may hang them. David agreed and gave them to Gibeon; but did not include Mephibosheth who ate with him. Then they took the bones of Saul and Jonathan and the bones of the 7 hanged sons and buried then together in the tomb of Kish, Saul’s father. And the famine ended. Lesson? God requires that we keep all covenants we make |
| 2 Sam 2115-22 Philistine giants killed |
A series of 4 wars against Philistine giants in which all 4 giants were killed. In the first battle David grew weary, but was saved by Abishai. It was David’s last battle. |
| 2 Sam 221-51 Song of Deliverance |
David’s reign now coming to an end and the writer goes back 40 years to remind us of his reliance upon the Lord when Saul tried for 13 years to kill him. = Ps 18 (He reigned in Hebron for 7 years and Jerusalem for 33 years. 1 Kgs 211) “The LORD is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer, my God, my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold and my refuge, my saviour; you save me from violence. I call upon the LORD, who is worthy to be praised, and I am saved from my enemies. ... You save a humble people, but your eyes are on the haughty to bring them down. For you are my lamp, O LORD, and my God lightens my darkness. ... You delivered me from men of violence. For this I will praise you, O LORD, among the nations ...” David did not forget what the Lord had done for him in his early years. And neither should we. |
| 2 Sam 231-7 David’s last words |
First and last words are important. The God of Israel has spoken; the Rock of Israel has said to me ... he has made with me an everlasting covenant, ordered in all things and secure. The faithfulness of Almighty God is revealed in history. ‘Great David’s greater Son’ came as promised to redeem us, and he will come again to reign as king. Thus he fulfills his covenant with David. |
| 2 Sam 238-38 David’s 30 mighty men |
All 30 renowned for how many they had killed! They were all brave and skilled. They enabled David to exert power over all the surrounding nations and instil fear. However, ‘we worship God not because we must, but because we may’.. |
| 2 Sam 241-25 David numbers Israel |
Why did David want to number Israel? Vanity? Pride in achievements? Not told. Joab tried and failed to stop him. Result? 800,000 valiant men who drew the sword, and the men of Judah were 500,000. Then David realised, “I have sinned greatly in what I have done. But now, O LORD, please take away the iniquity of your servant.” The prophet Gad told David he had three choices: 3 years famine, 3 months defeats by enemies or 3 days pestilence. He chose the latter, “Let us fall into the hand of the LORD, for his mercy is great; but let me not fall into the hand of man.” So 70,000 died! The angel stopped when he came to Jerusalem. David wanted to offer a sacrifice. Araunah offered his land and oxen. David refused. “I will not offer burnt offerings to the LORD my God that cost me nothing.” So David bought the threshing floor and the oxen. And the Lord had mercy upon David and the land. It remains dangerous to boast about power and achievement. A similar judgement fell upon Nebuchadnezzar when he boasted about his city of Babylon, which concludes with: Those who walk in pride he is able to humble. Dan 4. So beware! |
1 Kings [Contents]
These two books start with the death of David in ~970 BC and end with the exile of Judah to Babylon in 586 BC. They are a valuable history lesson that trace the consequence of Israel’s decision to be ruled by hereditary (mostly) kings instead of judges. The lessons from these 384 years are many; although sinful man has only rarely learned to profit from them. The national benefit of leaders determined to obey Almighty God is immense. Where there is no prophetic vision the people cast off restraint, but blessed is he who keeps the law. Prov 2918
| 1Kg 11-4 David was old |
David had reigned for 40 years. But this book open with 4 verses of somewhat surprising detail. David was old (70) and found it difficult to keep warm. So they brought him a young and very beautiful woman! With dignified grace Scripture says, she was of service to the king and attended to him. It also immediately says but the king knew her not. These 4 verses even named her, Abishag the Shunammite. I imagine in heaven meeting Abishag and asking her what she did on earth, and without any embarrassment her reply, “O, I was with king David during his last years. I kept him warm!!” It is instructive what God excludes from his Word, and what he includes. |
| 1Kg 15-53 Thirst for power |
After the first little detail, we come to raw power politics. Now that David had become old and weak, Adonijah, the fourth son of David by his fifth wife Haggith (2Sam 32-5) sought to make himself king. So different from the care given by Abishag. Joab and Abiathar the priest sided with Adonijah, but Zadock the priest, Nathan the prophet and most of David’s ‘mighty men’ did not support Adonijah. Nathan told Bathsheba and instructed her to go and tell David that this coup threatened the promise that their son Solomon would be the next king. Nathan also went to tell David. He may have been old, but he was still quick and decisive. He told them to blow the trumpet and immediately make Solomon king. Solomon was to ride David’s mule and go to Gihon and there Zadok was to anoint Solomon king. In fear of his life, Adonijah gave up all hope of being king and sought Solomon’s forgiveness. It was given. Solomon just told him, “Go to your house.” |
| 1Kg 21-9 Instructions to Solomon |
When David's time to die drew near, he commanded Solomon his son, saying, “I am about to go the way of all the earth. Be strong, and show yourself a man, and keep the charge of the LORD your God, walking in his ways and keeping his statutes ...” Would Solomon keep these wise words? His initial desire was good, but riches and power would cloud his vision to ‘seek first the kingdom of God’ and his foreign wives would soon corrupt his life. |
| 1Kg 210-46 Solomon established |
David dies having reigned 7 years in Hebron and 33 years in Jerusalem. So Solomon sat on the throne of David his father, and his kingdom was firmly established. But how. First there were some old scores to settle. 1. Adonijah who had earlier tried to grab the throne foolishly asked Bathsheba if he could have Abishag for his wife. So Solomon sent Benaiah to kill Adonijah. 2. Abiathar the priest who supported Adonijah was banished to Anathoth and not allowed to leave it. 3. Solomon sent Benaiah to kill Joab who had killed Abner and Amasa, and supported Adonijah. 4. Shimei who had cursed David when he had to flee from Absalom was put under house arrest in Jerusalem. 3 years later he went to Gath to retrieve two of his servants. So Benaiah was sent to kill him. Benaiah was made army chief and Zadok replaced Abiathar. Thus did Solomon establish his reign, which would remain unchallenged. Too many men have followed Solomon’s example to gain and keep their power. |
| 1Kg 31 Solomon marries Egyptian |
Solomon’s reign did not start well. He married the daughter of Pharaoh king of Egypt and brought her into the city of David. This was foolish: 1. To marry for an alliance with Pharaoh in the hope of peace belittles marriage. 2. He married outside of the Jewish faith. There is no record of her making the same transformation that his grandmother, Ruth, made: “Your God will be my God.” 3. She was the first of many foreign wives who worshipped idols. See 1Kg 111-6 And they would turn his heart away from the Lord. The example of his father David was not good. He had 8 wives, but all were Jewish. |
| 1Kg 32-4 Foundations are vital |
At the start of his 40 year reign, Solomon loved the LORD, walking in the statutes of David his father, only he sacrificed and made offerings at the high places. This critically important defect would blight his life. In the end pride, his enjoyment of riches and passion for building would enslave his own people, divide his heart from the Lord and cause a civil coup that divided Israel. There is wisdom that is founded upon the fear of the Lord and wisdom that is cleverness that feeds a man’s pride. |
| 1Kg 35-15 Seeks wisdom |
Solomon went to Gibeon to sacrifice there, for that was the great high place. There he made extravagant sacrifices. There the Lord appeared to him in a dream and asked him what gift he would like. Solomon seems to have felt greatly inferior to his father David and asks God, “Give your servant therefore an understanding mind to govern your people, that I may discern between good and evil.” It pleased the Lord that he had not asked for riches, a long life and power over his enemies. He said, “Behold, I give you a wise and discerning mind ... And if you will walk in my ways, keeping my statutes and my commandments, as your father David walked, then I will lengthen your days.” Solomon returned to Jerusalem and stood before the Ark of the Covenant and made burnt offerings to the Lord. Much better than offering at Gibeon. But how long would it last? Much is made of Solomon’s wisdom, e.g. next section. However there is little evidence of the fear of the Lord, especially in his personal life. A magnificent Temple does not make a nation righteous when they followed his example and also worshipped idols on the ‘high places’. Compromise is popular and deadly |
| 1Kg 316-28 Wise judgement |
His method to determine which of the two prostitutes was the mother of the remaining child was indeed clever, and earned Solomon a good reputation, because they perceived that the wisdom of God was in him to do justice. Like in the TV series about John Deed, they both displayed clever and good justice, but neither practised a righteous life. |
| 1Kg 41-34 Wise administration |
There is no doubt that God gave Solomon wisdom in appointing and administering all his officials. His knowledge and understanding was beyond measure. So much so that all the kings of the earth came to met Solomon. Judah and Israel ... ate and drank and were happy. Solomon ruled over all the kingdoms from the Euphrates to the land of the Philistines and to the border of Egypt. They brought tribute and served Solomon all the days of his life. Israel enjoyed the peace dividend and top class admin after all the fighting in David’s reign. But one of Solomon’s 12 named chief administrators was in charge of ‘forced labour’. This enslavement together with the idol worship would eventually leave a poor legacy. What about righteousness, truth and obedience to God? Did the prosperity encourage them to seek the Lord and admit their dependence upon the Lord? Did they bless God for his forgiveness and light? |
| 1Kg 51 - 751 Building the Temple and his own palace |
Hiram, a friend of David, was delighted to supply his Lebanese cedar when asked by Solomon. Paid with 20,000 cors of wheat (3,200 tons) + olive oil each year. He also drafted 30,000 (10,000/month in shifts) forced labour (paid, not slaves. 922) He also employed 70,000 burden-bearers and 80,000 stonecutters. The design and dimensions are described in detail. All the stone was prepared at the quarry, so that neither hammer nor axe nor any tool of iron was heard in the house while it was being built. He lined all the walls with cedar and the floors with cypress so no stone was seen inside. The inner sanctuary was overlaid with gold. All the bronze pillars and the silver and gold articles were also made. The Temple took 7 years to build. With all the concentration upon the building may be it was difficult to remember the Lord God for whom it was being built. But God did not forget Solomon. Now the word of the LORD came to Solomon, “Concerning this house that you are building, if you will walk in my statutes and obey my rules and keep all my commandments and walk in them, then I will establish my word with you, which I spoke to David your father. And I will dwell among the children of Israel and will not forsake my people Israel.” Solomon also built a lavish palace for himself of cut stone and cedar. |
| 1Kg 81 - 99 Ark brought up Solomon prays |
Solomon assembled all the elders to Jerusalem and the priests took up the Ark and brought it to its place in the Most Holy Place. When the priests came out of the Holy Place ... the glory of the LORD filled the house of the LORD.
He then blessed the Lord and prayed that God’s word to David would be fulfilled. He also prayed that “When heaven is shut up and there is no rain because they have sinned against you, if they pray toward this place and acknowledge your name and turn from their sin, when you afflict them, then hear in heaven and forgive the sin of your servants, your people Israel, when you teach them the good way in which they should walk, and grant rain upon your land, which you have given to your people as an inheritance. ... if they repent with all their heart and with all their soul in the land of their enemies, who carried them captive, and pray to you ... then hear from heaven ... and forgive your people who have sinned against you, ... For you separated them from among all the peoples of the earth to be your heritage.” Having prayed, he then blessed all the assembly of Israel: “Blessed be the LORD who has given rest to his people Israel, according to all that he promised. Not one word has failed of all his good promise, which he spoke by Moses his servant. The LORD our God be with us, as he was with our fathers. May he not leave us or forsake us, that he may incline our hearts to him, to walk in all his ways and to keep his commandments ... the LORD is God; there is no other. Let your heart therefore be wholly true to the LORD our God.” The LORD appeared to Solomon a second time, as he had appeared to him at Gibeon. And the LORD said to him, “I have heard your prayer and your plea, which you have made before me. I have consecrated this house that you have built, by putting my name there forever. If you will walk before me, as David your father walked, with integrity of heart and uprightness, ... then I will establish your royal throne over Israel forever. But if you turn aside from following me, ... then I will cut off Israel from the land that I have given them ... and this house will become a heap of ruins.
Over the next 364 years Judah had 20 kings, but only 4 were good - Jehoshaphat, Jotham, Hezekiah and Joash. 4 others were partly good. Finally in 586BC Judah was exiled to Babylon as the Lord had spoken to Solomon. |
| 1Kg 910-28 Other building |
After 20 years of building using Lebanese cedar and cypress from Hiram, Solomon gave him some border cities, which were poor and did not please him. But did not result in war. Solomon also procured 420 talents (31,500lbs) of gold from Ophir using ships he had built, but partly manned by Lebanese sailors. Solomon also built the Millo and the wall of Jerusalem and Hazor and Megiddo and Gezer, beside numerous store cities and cities for his chariots. He enslaved all the men left of the Amorites, Hittites, Perizzites etc. No Israelites were enslaved - they were conscripted and paid. |
| 1Kg 101-13 Queen of Sheba |
The unnamed queen of Sheba came to Solomon with much gold, jewels and spices. She was more than impressed with his answers to all her questions. Your wisdom and prosperity surpass the report that I heard ... Blessed be the Lord your God. She gave him 120 talents (9,000lbs) of gold. And he gave to her all that she desired. |
| 1Kg 1014 - 119 Staggering wealth and 700 wives |
King Solomon excelled all the kings of the earth in riches and in wisdom. He had everything from gold cups and shields to peacocks and 1,400 chariots. He also had 700 wives, many of them foreign, who turned away his heart after other gods. ... So Solomon did what was evil in the sight of the LORD. ... He built a high place for Chemosh, the abomination of Moab and for Molech the abomination of the Ammonites. ... And the LORD was angry with Solomon. Why do men strive for such prosperity, power, privilege and popularity? |
| 1Kg 119-43 Solomon disobeys God |
And the LORD was angry with Solomon, because his heart had turned away from the LORD, the God of Israel, who had appeared to him twice and had commanded him concerning this thing, that he should not go after other gods. Therefore ... I will surely tear the kingdom from you and will give it to your servant. (Jeroboam) Jeroboam met the prophet Ahijah who tore his new robe into 12 pieces, and gave 10 to Jeroboam and the one he kept would be for Rehoboam and ‘included’ Jerusalem, because Solomon worshipped foreign gods Ashtoreth, Chemosh and Milcom. Jeroboam fled to Egypt until Solomon died. |
| 1Kg 121-24 Jeroboam / Rehoboam |
When Solomon died (930 BC)Rehoboam went to Shechem where the people had gathered to make him king. (Why not Jerusalem?) Jeroboam immediately returned from Egypt and pleaded with Rehoboam to lighten the hard service that Solomon had imposed. But Rehoboam foolishly took the advice of the young men and rejected the plea saying, “My father disciplined you with whips, but I will discipline you with scorpions.” So, just as God had promised (through Ahijah) the kingdom divided; 10 northern tribes made Jeroboam king of Israel and Rehoboam returned to Jerusalem where the tribe of Judah (and part of Benjamin) made him king. Israel would be exiled by Assyria just over 200 years later and become ‘the lost tribes’. Judah would exiled to Babylon in 586 BC and return after 50 years. Judah would be exiled by Rome in 70 AD and become the modern state of Israel in 1948.When Solomon died (930 BC)Rehoboam went to Shechem where the people had gathered to make him king. (Why not Jerusalem?) Jeroboam immediately returned from Egypt and pleaded with Rehoboam to lighten the hard service that Solomon had imposed. But Rehoboam foolishly took the advice of the young men and rejected the plea saying, “My father disciplined you with whips, but I will discipline you with scorpions.” So, just as God had promised (through Ahijah) the kingdom divided; 10 northern tribes made Jeroboam king of Israel and Rehoboam returned to Jerusalem where the tribe of Judah (and part of Benjamin) made him king. Israel would be exiled by Assyria just over 200 years later and become ‘the lost tribes’. Judah would exiled to Babylon in 586 BC and return after 50 years. Judah would be exiled by Rome in 70 AD and become the modern state of Israel in 1948. Jeroboam and Rehoboam divided the chosen people for ever. Jeroboam and Rehoboam divided the chosen people for ever. |
| 1Kg 1225-33 Two golden calves |
Jeroboam reasoned that the people may would want to worship in Jerusalem and come to reject him. So he made two golden calves and placed them at Bethel and Dan in high places and altars he had made there. He told the people, “Behold your gods, O Israel, who brought you up out of the land of Egypt.” A double lie. Thus began a succession of 20 kings, all of them evil. Almighty God graciously sent a succession of prophets - Elijah, Elisha, Hosea, Joel, Amos etc. But the people all refused to repent of this evil and rejected God’s offer of mercy. It was a sad day from which they never recovered. |
| 1Kg 131-10 False repentance |
When Jeroboam was at Bethel, a man of God from Judah came and prophesied against the altar and the golden calf. Jeroboam stretched out his hand and ordered them to seize the prophet. His hand dried up. The altar was torn down and burned. Jeroboam pleaded with the prophet for God to restore his hand. And surprisingly his hand was restored. The king offered the prophet a reward; he declined it. The golden calf and the high places remained and Jeroboam appointed priests there and his life remained unchanged and evil. |
| 1Kg 1311-34 Weakness punished |
The Lord had told the man of God from Judah not to eat bread and drink water on his mission. A false prophet met him on his return and persuaded him to rest and eat with him. He accepted. As he continued his journey he was killed by a lion. He was not the first or the last man to be punished for disobeying the clear instruction of the Lord God. |
| 1Kg 141-20 Jeroboam condemned |
When Jeroboam’s son, Abijah, fell sick he sought God’s verdict by disguising his wife who went to ask Ahijah the prophet in Shiloh, who was nearly blind. But God warned his prophet she would come and gave him his answer - that his son would die. And furthermore he told her that the Lord would destroy the house of Jeroboam and root up Israel out of this good land that he gave to their fathers and scatter them beyond the Euphrates, because they have made their Asherim, provoking the LORD to anger. Abijah died and shortly afterwards, so did Jeroboam. His son Nadab became king and was immediately killed by Baasha. In his mercy the Lord gave Israel another 200 years to repent and then Assyria exiled them as prophesied. |
| 1Kg 1421-31 Rehoboam, Judah |
Son of Solomon, but his mother was Naamah the Ammonite. And Judah did what was evil in the sight of the LORD, and they provoked him to jealousy with their sins that they committed, more than all that their fathers had done. They also built for themselves Asherim on every high hill ... and there were also male cult prostitutes (sodomites KJV) in the land. In his 7th year Egypt came up against Jerusalem and took away all the treasures from the Temple and from the king’s house, including the shields of gold. Rehoboam replaced them with bronze. Throughout his 17 year reign there was war with Jeroboam. An evil leader can so quickly encourage a nation to become evil. |
| 1Kg 151-8 Abijam, Judah |
(Abijam = Abijah) He reigned for three years in Jerusalem. ... . And he walked in all the sins that his father did before him. ... There was war between Rehoboam and Jeroboam all the days of his life. |
| 1Kg 159-24 Asa, Judah |
Asa reigned for 41 years and he did what was right in the eyes of the LORD. He put away the male cult prostitutes out of the land and removed all the idols that his fathers had made. He also removed Maacah his mother from being queen mother because she had made an abominable image for Asherah. But the high places remained. And the war with Israel continued. Using a gift of gold, he made a covenant with Syria, who then turned against Israel. In his old age he was diseased in his feet. Why does scripture include this detail? |
| 1Kg 1525-32 Nadab king of Israel |
Reigned for 2 years and did what was evil in the sight of the LORD. Baasha kills him and all the house of Jeroboam. |
| 1Kg 1533 - 1634 Evil kings of Israel Baasha, Elah, Zimri, Omri, Ahab |
Baasha reigned twenty-four years and did what was evil in the sight of the LORD. The word of the Lord came to Jehu. “Behold, I will utterly sweep away Baasha and his house ... Anyone belonging to Baasha who dies in the city the dogs shall eat, and anyone of his who dies in the field the birds of the heavens shall eat.” Elah reigned 2 years, Killed by his servant Zimri. Zimri kills all the house of Baasha as Jehu had prophesied. Only reigned 7 days. Omri defeats Zimri and also Tibni, his rival. In his 12 year reign he did more evil than predecessors. Ahab reigned for 22 years and again did more evil than all who were before him. He married Jezebel, daughter of king of Sidon and worshipped Baal. He built an Asherah. He laid its foundation at the cost of Abiram his firstborn, and set up its gates at the cost of his youngest son Segub, according to the word of the LORD, which he spoke by Joshua the son of Nun. After Jeroboam, Israel had 6 progressively more evil kings over 64 years that provoked the Lord to anger. And it did not stop with Ahab. |
| 1Kg 171-24 Elijah + drought |
Elijah (and 7,000 others 1Kg 1918) were grieved by the national worship of Baal. So God sent him to Ahab to present God’s simple verdict: “As the LORD, the God of Israel, lives, before whom I stand, there shall be neither dew nor rain these years, except by my word.” It would be 3½ years before the next drop of rain fell in Israel. Meanwhile God sent Elijah to hide by the brook Cherith and commanded ravens to bring him food. As the drought progressed into a national disaster, there was no sign of any repentance in Israel. No one turned to God and sought his mercy. In the last days God has promised a tribulation of far greater world significance than the current Corona pandemic as a warning to his increasingly wicked creation. Today, as in the time of Elijah, the distressed people had little or no inclination to heed the Lord’s warning and repent. Soon the brook dried up, so God sent Elijah to Zarephath in Sidon, and commanded a widow there to care for him. God’s plans are often very different from man’s. When Elijah found |God’s chosen widow, she was out collecting a few sticks to make the last loaf of bread with the remains of her flour and oil for her son and herself. But Elijah asks her for bread and water! Then he assures her that the Lord, the God of Israel says that her flour and oil would never be empty until the day that the Lord sends rain upon the earth. She obeys. And the flour and oil was multiplied exactly as the Lord had said. That was not the only miracle witnessed in that foreign home. A day came when the widow’s son became ill and died. So Elijah pleaded with the Lord three times. Then the Lord sent back the child’s life; he brought him back to his mother alive. The widow said, “Now I know that you are a man of God, and that the word of the LORD in your mouth is truth.” |
| 1Kg 181 - 1921 Elijah .v. Ahab |
After many days the word of the LORD came to Elijah, in the third year, saying, “Go, show yourself to Ahab, and I will send rain upon the earth.” So Elijah went to show himself to Ahab. When Ahab saw Elijah, Ahab said to him, “Is it you, you troubler of Israel?” And he answered, “I have not troubled Israel, but you have, and your father's house, because you have abandoned the commandments of the LORD and followed the Baals. Now therefore send and gather all Israel to me at Mount Carmel, and the 450 prophets of Baal and the 400 prophets of Asherah. But the 400 prophets of Asherah did not come. Neither did Jezebel. Elijah sets the challenge: “How long will you go limping between two different opinions? If the LORD is God, follow him; but if Baal, then follow him.” Then he set a very practical test. They would each set out a sacrifice on wood and the God who answers by fire is the real God. They agreed. They called upon Baal all morning, but there was no fire. Then Elijah built an altar with 12 stones, laid out the wood and the sacrifice, and three times he poured 4 jars of water on the sacrifice until it filled a trench he had dug surrounding it. Then he prayed: “O LORD, God of Abraham, Isaac, and Israel, let it be known this day that you are God in Israel, and that I am your servant, and that I have done all these things at your word. Answer me, O LORD, answer me, that this people may know that you, O LORD, are God, and that you have turned their hearts back.” Then the fire of the LORD fell and consumed the burnt offering and the wood and the stones and the dust, and licked up the water that was in the trench. The people cried out: “The LORD, he is God; the LORD, he is God.” Elijah told them to seize the prophets of Baal. They did and he killed them all. And Elijah said to Ahab, “Go up, eat and drink, for there is a sound of the rushing of rain.” While he went up to the top of Carmel and prayed. Then he told his servant repeatedly to look and see if there was a cloud. On the 7th time there was a little cloud. “Go up, say to Ahab, ‘Prepare your chariot and go down, lest the rain stop you.’” And in a little while the heavens grew black with clouds and wind, and there was a great rain. And Ahab rode and went to Jezreel. And the hand of the LORD was on Elijah, and he gathered up his garment and ran before Ahab to the entrance of Jezreel. Jezebel was not pleased! She vowed to kill Elijah within 24 hours. Elijah arose and ran for his life and came to Beersheba. (Over 100 miles) He left his servant there and went a day’s journey into the wilderness. There he sat under a broom tree and asked the Lord that he may die. He lay down and slept. But Almighty God was not going let his faithful servant die. He sent an angel with cake and a jar of water. Elijah ate and then went back to sleep. The Lord came again and said, “Arise and eat, for the journey is too great for you.” And he arose and ate and drank, and went in the strength of that food forty days and forty nights to Horeb, the mount of God. There he lodged in a cave. But the Lord did not leave him weeping alone. And behold, the word of the LORD came to him, and he said to him, “What are you doing here, Elijah?” He said, “I have been very jealous for the LORD, the God of hosts. For the people of Israel have forsaken your covenant, thrown down your altars, and killed your prophets with the sword, and I, even I only, am left, and they seek my life, to take it away.” God told him to go outside and stand before the Lord. The Lord sent an earth shattering wind, then an earthquake, then fire. But the Lord was not in any of these. Finally he heard the sound of a low whisper. And when Elijah heard it, he wrapped his face in his cloak and went out and stood at the entrance of the cave. And behold, there came a voice to him and said, “What are you doing here, Elijah?” Elijah outlines his sorry story. Then God reveals his plan for Elijah and Israel. Return to the wilderness of Damascus. ... Anoint Hazael to be king over Syria. ... Anoint Jehu the son of Nimshi to be king over Israel ... Anoint Elisha the son of Shaphat to be prophet in your place. The one who escapes from the sword of Hazael shall Jehu put to death ... The one who escapes from the sword of Jehu shall Elisha put to death. Yet I will leave seven thousand in Israel, all the knees that have not bowed to Baal. So he departed from there and found Elisha, who then followed him. |
| 1Kg 201-43 Ahab .v. Syria |
Ben-hahad the king of Syria raised a mighty army and came against Ahab demanding silver, gold and his best wives. A prophet told Ahab to begin a battle with his little army of 7,000. He obeyed and attacked at noon when Ben-hahad was drunk, and defeated him. The prophet then told Ahab to prepare himself for Ben-hahad, who had escaped, would return next spring. He did. And a man of God came near and said to the king of Israel, “Thus says the LORD, ‘Because the Syrians have said, “The LORD is a god of the hills but he is not a god of the valleys,” therefore I will give all this great multitude into your hand, and you shall know that I am the LORD.’” On the seventh day the battle was joined. And the people of Israel struck down of the Syrians 100,000 foot soldiers in one day. And the rest fled into the city of Aphek, and the wall fell upon 27,000 men who were left. Ben-hadad came to Ahab and pleaded for his life, and Ahab let him go. One of the sons of the prophets told Ahab that he would lose his own life because he had let go out of your hand the man whom I had devoted to destruction. Ahab went home vexed and sullen. He had no appreciation that it was the Lord God who had given him such a great victory. |
| 1Kg 211-25 Naboth’s Vineyard |
Selfish greed has always been a problem for men in power. Ahab was no exception. He saw Naboth’s vineyard as an ideal place to grow some vegetables. He offered to buy it or give him a better vineyard (taken from someone else). But Naboth refused: “The LORD forbid that I should give you the inheritance of my fathers.” So once more Ahab went into his house vexed and sullen. Jezebel wasn’t going see her Ahab so miserable so she set about accusing Naboth on the false charge of cursing God and the king; for which they stoned Naboth. Ahab was naturally pleased to take possession of the vineyard. But Almighty God was not pleased. Then the word of the LORD came to Elijah ... “In the place where dogs licked up the blood of Naboth shall dogs lick your own blood. ... because you have sold yourself to do what is evil in the sight of the LORD. ... And I will make your house like the house of Jeroboam ... and the house of Baasha. ... And of Jezebel the LORD also said, The dogs shall eat Jezebel within the walls of Jezreel. Ahab heard these words he regretted what he and Jezebel had done. He tore his clothes and put sackcloth on his flesh and fasted and lay in sackcloth and went about dejectedly. God sent Elijah to tell him that the disaster on his house would not be in his days, but in his son’s days. But there is no record of his repenting of his idol worship. As we shall see, Ahab only lived for 3 more years, so Naboth’s vineyard never brought him any lasting joy or satisfaction. This is a clear lesson on the consequences of power and greed. But it is a lesson from history that is rarely learned. |
| 1Kg 221-40 Ahab killed in battle |
After 3 years of peace, Ahab pleads with Jehoshaphat to help him win back Ramoth-gilead that the Syrians had occupied. He wisely insisted that they should first enquire of the Lord. Ahab gathered 400 prophets (so called) who said, “Go up, for the Lord will give it into the hand of the king.” But the discerning Jehoshaphat did not believe them. Ahab said, “There is yet one man by whom we may inquire of the LORD, Micaiah the son of Imlah, but I hate him, for he never prophesies good concerning me, but evil.” (There was another prophet whom Ahab had greater cause to fear - Elijah!) Micaiah prophesied, “I saw all Israel scattered on the mountains, as sheep that have no shepherd. And the LORD said, ‘These have no master; let each return to his home in peace.’ And he also told them about a lying spirit in the mouth of all prophets who would entice Ahab to go and fight. But the LORD has declared disaster for you. For this true prophecy Ahab put him in prison “until I come in peace”. And Micaiah said, “If you return in peace, the LORD has not spoken by me.” Ahab thought that by disguising himself he could avoid the word of the Lord being fulfilled. He failed. A certain man drew his bow at random and struck the king of Israel between the scale armour and the breastplate. Ahab bled to death in his chariot which returned to Samaria. And the dogs licked up his blood. i.a.w. 2119 The only objective of the battle for the king of Syria was achieved; that Ahab should die. We are not told whether Micaiah was released from prison: nor if Ramoth-Gilead was returned to Israel. |
| 1Kg 2241-50 Jehoshaphat |
Reigned 25 years in Jerusalem, ... doing what was right in the sight of the Lord. Yet the high places were not taken away, and the people still sacrificed and made offerings on the high places. ... he exterminated the remnant of the male cult prostitutes. He also made ships to collect gold from Ophir, but they were wrecked. |
2 Kings [Contents]
| 2Kg 11-18 Fire from Heaven! |
Ahaziah fell from an upper room and lay injured in bed and inquired of Baalzebub if he would recover. God told Elijah the answer: ‘You shall not come down from the bed to which you have gone up, but you shall surely die.’ Not liking this result the king sent a captain with 50 men to Elijah who was sitting on the top of a hill. Elijah called down fire from heaven and it consumed them. The king sent another 50; and fire fell on them too. The third captain pleaded with Elijah for his life and of his 50. The angel of the Lord told Elijah to go down with him to see Ahaziah. He went and told him to his face the same message. That because he had inquired of Baalzebub he would die. So he died according to the word of the LORD that Elijah had spoken. |
| 2Kg 21-14 Elijah taken up |
When the time came for Elijah’s ministry to end, the apprenticeship of Elisha was tested. They were on their way to Gilgal when Elijah said to Elisha, “Please stay here, for the LORD has sent me as far as Bethel.” But Elisha said, “As the LORD lives, and as you yourself live, I will not leave you.” So they went down to Bethel. The same exchange was repeated twice more when going to Jericho and Jordan. When they came to the Jordan Elijah took his cloak and rolled it up and struck the water, and the water was parted to the one side and to the other, till the two of them could go over on dry ground. When they had crossed over Elijah said to Elisha, “Ask what I shall do for you, before I am taken from you.” And Elisha said, “Please let there be a double portion of your spirit on me.” And he said, “You have asked a hard thing; yet, if you see me as I am being taken from you, it shall be so for you, but if you do not see me, it shall not be so.” And as they still went on and talked, behold, chariots of fire and horses of fire separated the two of them. And Elijah went up by a whirlwind into heaven. And Elisha saw it. Then he took up Elijah’s cloak and struck the water. It parted. So God confirmed that he was now his prophet in Israel; his apprenticeship was complete. |
| 2Kg 215-25 Elisha’s 1st battle |
Elisha was met by the sons of the prophets who were at Jericho. They wanted to send 50 strong men to search for Elijah. He refused, but eventually agreed. They didn’t find him! The spring water at Jericho was bad He threw in salt from a new bowl and said, “Thus says the LORD, I have healed this water ...” It was, and remained so permanently. Then he went up to Bethel where some youths (NIV)jeered at him saying repeatedly said, “Go up, you baldhead!” Elisha cursed them in the the name of the Lord. And two she-bears came out of the woods and tore forty-two of the boys. Presumably it was not so much Elisha they jeered but the Lord God. Bethel was one of the main centres of idol worship - one of the golden calves was there. Moody suggests that the Hebrew word can mean it was young louts, rather than innocent boys who were saying in effect, ‘Go away, and take your God with you!’ |
| 2Kg 31-27 Moab defeated |
Moab refused to pay their annual levy to Jehoram, son of Ahab. Jehoram persuades Jehoshaphat and Edom to join him in attacking Moab. When their army ran out of water Jehoshaphat sought Elisha to enquire of the Lord. He declared that the streambed shall be filled with water. And also that they should fell every good tree, cover all the good land with stones and stop up every spring. In the morning the Moabites saw all the water in the streambed was red and thought it was blood and confidently attacked the 3 kings. But Moab was defeated. And their king only escaped by offering his son as a sacrifice! But in defeating Moab and spoiling their land, Jehoram would never get his annual levy. Such is the folly of man. |
| 2Kg 41-7 The Widow’s debt |
One of the sons of the prophets died leave a widow with two young sons. She cried to Elisha because the creditor threatened to take away her sons as slaves. Elisha told her to borrow vessels from all your neighbours, empty vessels and not too few. Then she was told to empty the only jar of oil into one the vessels. She went on pouring until all the borrowed vessels were full. Then the oil stopped flowing. She then sold the oil to pay off her debts and even had some left to live on. A special case and a great example of the special kindness of our ever gracious God. |
| 2Kg 48-17 Shunammite has a son |
On his ministry Elisha used to pass through Shunem. A wealthy woman there used to offer him food on his journeys. Her husband agreed to build a room for him on the roof of their house. On one occasion when he stopped there he asked Gehazi, his servant, how he could reward them. Gehazi answered, “Well, she has no son, and her husband is old.” He called the lady and told her, “At this season next year, you shall embrace a son.” Though she did not at first believe him, the following spring she bore a son, as Elisha had told her. |
| 2Kg 418-37 Shunammite’s son raised |
A few years later the child went out to help his father with the harvest. Had sunstroke, and was carried home to mother, but then died. She went to call Elisha. He sent Gehazi on ahead with his staff to lay on the face of the child. But it did not awaken him. Elisha then lay on the child. He got up and walked back and forth. Then he stretched himself on the child again,. He sneezed 7 times and opened his eyes. Elisha called the Shunammite and told her to pick up her son. She did so. We are not told her name, nor that of her son. Perhaps one day in heaven when she introduces herself, “I was the Shunammite woman”, then we can ask her! |
| 2Kg 438-42 Food in famine |
Elisha came again to Gilgal when there was a famine in the land. The sons of the prophets made a large stew, but some unknown wild gourds poisoned it. Elisha threw in some flour and then there was no harm in the pot. A man came with 20 barley loaves for Elisha who gave it to the sons of the prophets. But it was far too little for 100 men. So Elisha repeated, “Give them to the men, that they may eat, for thus says the LORD, ‘They shall eat and have some left.” They all ate their fill and had some left, according to the word of the LORD. It was no problem for Jesus to do this on a far greater scale for 5,000 and 4,000 men. |
| 2Kg 51-27 Naaman healed Gehazi a leper |
Naaman, commander of the Syrian army, was a mighty man of valor, but he was a leper. Greatness does not protect a man from leprosy, or any other disease. One of his maids was a captured Jewish girl. She told her mistress about Elisha. So Naaman loaded 7 cwt of silver and 150 lbs of gold plus 10 changes of clothing. He also took a letter from his king to the king of Israel, who didn’t know what to do. But Elisha heard and solved his problem by telling the king of Israel to send Naaman to him. He went. But Elisha did not go out to meet him; he just sent Gehazi with a message telling him to go and wash in Jordan 7 times. Naaman felt insulted. His servants took courage and persuaded him to go to the Jordan where he dipped himself seven times. His flesh was restored like the flesh of a little child, and he was clean. Naaman went back to Elisha to give him a present. Elisha refused. Naaman asked for 2 mule loads of earth so he could worship the God of Israel when he returned to Syria. Elisha said, “Go in peace.” But Gehazi went after Naaman and lied, telling Naaman that two sons of the prophets had arrived and needed help. So he gave Gehazi 150 lbs of silver and 2 changes of clothing plus 2 servants to carry them. When Gehazi returned, Elisha asked him where he had been. Again he lied. So Elisha said to him, “the leprosy of Naaman shall cling to you and to your descendants forever.” And it was so. Few realise that greed and lying and deceit remain dangerous. |
| 2Kg 61-7 Axe head floats |
The sons of the prophets needed to expand so they went to the Jordan for timber. But as one of them was felling a tree the axe head came off and fell into the river. “Alas! My master. It was borrowed.” So Elisha instructed him to throw a stick into the river and the axe head floated! |
| 2Kg 68-23 Chariots of fire |
Several times Elisha told the king of Israel how to avoid the warring Syrians. The Syrian king was told about this and determined to seize him. The opportunity came when Elisha was in Dothan, so he sent a great army and surrounded the city by night. In the morning, Elisha’s servant saw them and cried, “Alas, my master! What shall we do?” He said, “Do not be afraid, for those who are with us are more than those who are with them.” Then Elisha prayed and said, “O LORD, please open his eyes that he may see.” So the LORD opened the eyes of the young man, and he saw, and behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha. The Syrian chariots were no match for the Lord’s chariots of fire; although there was no chariot battle. Elisha just prayed that the Lord would blind the Syrians. He then led them into Samaria and prayed that the Lord would open their eyes. He told the king of Israel not to strike them, but to give them a great feast. He then sent them away. And the Syrians did not come again on raids into the land of Israel. |
| 2Kg 624 - 720 Syrians flee |
Ben-hadad, king of Assyria, mustered his entire army and went up and besieged Samaria, which also was suffering a great famine. The king of Israel blamed it all upon Elisha and swore to have his head by evening. Before the king’s messenger arrived the Lord showed Elisha, so he bolted the door firmly. But when he came he didn’t try to take Elisha, but said correctly, “This trouble is from the LORD!” But Elisha said, “Hear the word of the LORD: thus says the LORD, Tomorrow about this time a seah of fine flour shall be sold for a shekel, and two seahs of barley for a shekel, at the gate of Samaria.” In other words, the siege and the famine would end that very day. The kings captain laughed at this saying that even the Lord could not achieve this. So Elisha told him, “You shall see it with your own eyes, but you shall not eat of it.” Four lepers knowing that they were about to die anyway, determined to try their luck over in the Syrian camp. When they got there they had all fled! For the Lord had made the army of the Syrians hear the sound of chariots and of horses, the sound of a great army. They had left all their tents, provisions, even their gold and silver. The lepers returned to Samaria with the news. And after checking that it was not a Syrian trap the people went out and plundered the camp of the Syrians. In their haste to leave the city the captain was trampled and died, thus fulfilling the word of the Lord from Elisha. Almighty God has some surprising and gracious ways of revealing his power and the truth of his Word. But sadly there is no record of the king or the people of Israel repenting; only an opportunity discarded. |
| 2Kg 81-6 Shunammite’s land |
The Shunammite woman, whose son had been restored to life, went to live among the Philistines when Elisha warned her about a 7 year famine. When the 7 years were over she returned and asked the king to restore her land, just as Gehazi was telling the king about all the great things Elisha had done. The king commanded: “Restore all that was hers, together with all the produce of the fields from the day that she left the land until now.” A good example of one of the many ‘God coincidences’. |
| 2Kg 87-15 Ben-hadad murdered |
Elisha went to Damascus when Ben-hadad was sick. Hazael sent to ask Elisha if he would recover? “Go, say to him, ‘You shall certainly recover,’ but the LORD has shown me that he shall certainly die.” And he fixed his gaze and stared at him, until he was embarrassed. And the man of God wept. And Hazael said, “Why does my lord weep?” He answered, “Because I know the evil that you will do to the people of Israel ... when you are to be king over Syria. (See 2Kg 1032 133, 22) Hazael returned to Ben-hadad and next day murdered him. |
| 2Kg 816-24 Jehoram king (Judah) |
He reigned for 8 years. His wife was Ahab and Jezebel’s daughter; so it is no surprise that he did what was evil in the sight of the LORD. Edom and Libnah revolted against the rule of Judah. |
| 2Kg 825-29 Ahaziah king (Judah) |
He also did what was evil but only lasted 1 year before being murdered by Jehu. |
| 2Kg 914 - 1036 Jehu assassinates |
Jehu’s first targets were Joram son of Ahab and Ahaziah, king of Judah, who was visiting him. When he arrived at Jezreel, he ordered two eunuchs to throw Jezebel out of the window. They obeyed. Jehu had lunch and then told his men to bury her. Too late; the dogs had eaten all but her skull and hands, thus fulfilling the word of the Lord to Elijah (1Kg 2115) Next on the list for destruction were the 70 sons of Ahab that lived in Samaria. Following a letter from Jehu the great men of the city beheaded the 70 sons and sent their heads in baskets to Jehu in Jezreel. He then went to Samaria himself and on the way met 42 relatives of Ahaziah, king of Judah, so he slaughtered them. In Samaria he struck down all who remained to Ahab. Then pretending to worship Baal himself he called all the prophets of Baal to come and worship with him. They came. Jehu stationed 80 of his men outside the city so that none could escape. The prophets were all killed. Jehu demolished the house of Baal, and made it a latrine to this day. Thus Jehu wiped out Baal from Israel. ... But Jehu was not careful to walk in the law of the LORD, the God of Israel, with all his heart. He did not turn from the sins of Jeroboam, which he made Israel to sin. In those days the LORD began to cut off parts of Israel. Hazael defeated them throughout the territory of Israel: from the Jordan eastward. Jehu’s bloody reign lasted for 28 dangerous years. No wonder Elisha wept when he was shown what was going to happen in Israel. |
| 2Kg 111-3 Athaliah |
When Ahaziah died, he mother Athaliah grabbed the throne and destroyed all the royal family - except baby Joash (=Jehoash) who was rescued by Jehosheba, the daughter of king Joram. Joash remained hidden in the Temple for 6 years. |
| 2Kg 114-21 Athaliah killed |
When Joash was 7, Jehoiada ordered the guards to surround him in the Temple and crown him king. Athaliah cried “Treason!” but was taken out of the house of the Lord and killed. They then made a covenant with the Lord that they should be the Lord’s people. Then all the people of the land went to the house of Baal and tore it down; his altars and his images they broke in pieces, and they killed Mattan the priest of Baal before the altars. ... So all the people of the land rejoiced, and the city was quiet after Athaliah had been put to death. |
| 2Kg 121-21 Joash king of Judah |
Joash reigned 40 years in Jerusalem. He did what was right in the eyes of the LORD all his days, because Jehoiada the priest instructed him. Nevertheless, the high places were not taken away; the people continued to sacrifice and make offerings on the high places. Joash told the priests to repair the house of the Lord. But by the 23rd year of his reign no repairs had been made. So he told them again and they did so. Hazael, king of Syria set his face to go up against Jerusalem. Joash bribed him with all his own treasures and all the gold found in the treasuries of the house of the Lord. So Hazael went away. In his 40th year his servants arose and killed Joash. 2 Ch 24 tells us why. After Jehoiada the priest died, Joash abandoned the house of the Lord ... and served the Asherim and the idols. Zechariah prophesied: “Why do you break the commandments of the LORD, so that you cannot prosper? Because you have forsaken the LORD, he has forsaken you.” So Joash ordered him to be stoned. |
| 2Kg 131-13 Two evil kings of Israel |
Jehoahaz reigned for 17 years. He did what was evil in the sight of the LORD ... And the anger of the LORD was kindled against Israel, and he gave them continually into the hand of Hazael. However for a time he sought the Lord’s favour and he gave Israel relief, but the golden calves and the Asherah still remained in Israel. Jehoash reigned for 17 years. He also did what was evil in the sight of the LORD. Another 33 years of sadness for the Lord. Why should men be so foolish? |
| 2Kg 1314-25 Elisha dies |
When Elisha was about to die, Jehoash, king of Israel went to see him, and wept. Elisha told him to shoot an arrow eastwards. Then he said, “The LORD'S arrow of victory, the arrow of victory over Syria!” Then he told him to strike the ground with the arrows. Jehoash only struck the ground 3 times. So Elisha told him he would only defeat the Syrians 3 times (which he did when Hazael died) instead of 5 or 6 times. Elisha died. A man from a Moabite band was thrown into Elisha’s grave and revived. |
| 2Kg 141-22 Amaziah (Judah) |
Amaziah reigned 29 years. He did what was right in the eyes of the LORD, yet not like David his father ... But the high places were not removed; the people still sacrificed and made offerings on the high places. He killed all the servants who had struck down his father Joash. He struck down 10,000 Edomites and then threatened Israel (Jehoash) who advised him against it just because he had beaten Edom. Amaziah went to war and lost. Jehoash broke down part of the wall of Jerusalem and seized all the gold and silver in the house of the Lord and in the king’s house. When the people conspired against Amaziah he fled to Lachish. But they found him there and put him to death and made his 16 year old son king in his pace. |
| 2Kg 1423-29 Jeroboam II (Israel) |
He did what was evil in the sight of the LORD. He did not depart from all the sins of Jeroboam the son of Nebat. And he maintained this evil for 41 years. |
| 2Kg 151-7 Azariah (Judah) |
Azariah (=Uzziah) reigned for 52 years (longest reign). First 25 years he reigned with his father Amaziah and last 10 years he had leprosy because he became proud and burned incense on the altar; so his son Jotham also reigned. (See also 2Ch 26) He did what was right in the eyes of the LORD, ... Nevertheless, the high places were not taken away. The people still sacrificed and made offerings on the high places. |
| 2Kg 158-12 Zechariah (Israel) |
Zechariah only reigned for 6 months before being murdered. Like the other king of Israel he did what was evil in the sight of the LORD, as his fathers had done. |
| 2Kg 1513-16 Shallum (Israel) |
Shallum reigned for even less time - 1 month - before being murdered. |
| 2Kg 1517-22 Menahem (Israel) |
Menahem, who had murdered Shallom, reigned for 10 years. Tiphsah refused to open to him, so he sacked the town and killed all the pregnant women. He bribed Pul the king of Assyria with just over 40 tons of silver not to attack Israel. And he did what was evil in the sight of the LORD. |
| 2Kg 1523-26 Pekahiah (Israel) |
Reigned 2 years and did evil before being murdered. |
| 2Kg 1527-31 Pekah (Israel) |
Lasted 20 years before being murdered by Hoshea. He too did not depart from the sins of Jeroboam the son of Nebat. During his reign Tilath-pileser of Assyria captured many of the northern towns of Israel. During these years the gracious God sent the prophets Amos, Hosea and Joel. But no one took any notice of them. Almighty God was ignored by sinful disobedient men. But there is always a price to pay for such folly. |
| 2Kg 1532-38 Jotham (Judah) |
During his 16 year reign he did what was right in the eyes of the LORD ... Nevertheless, the high places were not removed. The people still sacrificed and made offerings on the high places. He felt the opposition that the Lord had sent; Rezi (Syria) and of Pekah (Israel) |
| 2Kg 161-20 Ahaz (Judah) |
Ahaz reigned for 16 years but he did not do what was right in the eyes of the LORD his God, as his father David had done, but he walked in the way of the kings of Israel. He even burned his son as an offering. How many of God’s chosen people in Judah and Israel cared about the rampant national evil? God sent Isaiah and Micah to prophesy in Judah. See the tragic parable of the vineyard in Is 5 Rezin (Syria) and Pekah (Israel) waged war against Jerusalem but could not conquer it. Ahaz bribed Tiglath-pileser (Assyria) to come and help him. He attacked Damascus and killed Rezin. Ahaz went to Damascus to thank Tiglath-pilieser and he took all the details of the altar there. He commanded Uriah the priest to replace the bronze altar with a grand model of the Damascus altar. When Tiglath-pileser came to Jerusalem he made a great sacrifice on it. A reign such as this gave the Lord Almighty no pleasure. |
| 2Kg 171-5 Hoshea (Judah) |
He reigned nine years. And he did what was evil in the sight of the LORD. Hoshea became a vassal to the king of Assyria and unsuccessfully sought help from Egypt. Shalmaneser bound Hoshea in prison and besieged Judah for 3 years. He also captured Samaria and permanently exiled Israel (722BC) |
| 2Kg 176-41 Fall of Israel 722BC 2Kg 189-12 |
After a 3-years siege, In the ninth year of Hoshea, the king of Assyria captured Samaria, and he carried the Israelites away to Assyria. Why? They were God’s people living in the promised land. The next verse gives us God’s answer. And this occurred because the people of Israel had sinned against the LORD their God. ... the people of Israel did secretly against the LORD their God things that were not right. ... they served idols ... they would not listen (to God’s prophets) ... they abandoned all the commandments of the LORD their God, and made for themselves metal images of two calves; and they made an Asherah and worshipped all the host of heaven and served Baal. And they burned their sons. Therefore the LORD was very angry with Israel and removed them out of his sight. So it was with good reason that God’s just punishment was so severe. 208 years of wilful walking in sin (930 to 722 BC) The king of Assyria also brought people from Babylon, Cuthah, Avva etc to live in Samaria. This resulted in mixed religion and the despised Samaritans. The Lord reminded them clearly: You shall not fear other gods, but you shall fear the LORD your God, and he will deliver you out of the hand of all your enemies.” However, they would not listen. Today UK does not listen either. We have largely abandoned God’s Commandments, denied his creation, ridiculed Scripture, every year murder >200,000 babies. Even both Archbishops have endorsed homosexuality that God abhors, and the vast majority dismiss any idea that Almighty God should ever be angry with us. This chapter is a terrifying warning; a fact of history that is ignored at our peril. |
| 2Kg 181 - 2021 Hezekiah (Judah) |
Reigned 29 years. At last we read of a king who did what was right in the eyes of the LORD, ... He removed the high places and broke the pillars and cut down the Asherah. ... He trusted in the LORD, the God of Israel, so that there was none like him among all the kings of Judah ... And the LORD was with him; wherever he went out, he prospered. In his 14th year Sennacherib, king of Assyria, took all the fortified cities of Judah except Jerusalem. While he was attacking Lachish Hezekiah tried to persuade him to leave but he demanded 12 tons of silver and 1¼ tons of gold. Sennacherib sent 3 political ‘loud-mouths’ who mocked Jerusalem from outside the walls by offering 2,000 horses if Judah could find riders. Then they made a grave mistake by mocking God. Do not let Hezekiah make you trust in the LORD by saying, The LORD will surely deliver us, and this city will not be given into the hand of the king of Assyria. ... Has any of the gods of the nations ever delivered his land out of the hand of the king of Assyria? ... that the LORD should deliver Jerusalem out of my hand? The people on the walls did not did not answer them because Hezekiah had told them to be silent. He immediately went to the house of the Lord and sent messengers to tell Isaiah what the Assyrians had said. Isaiah said, “Say to your master, ‘Thus says the LORD: Do not be afraid because of the words that you have heard, with which the servants of the king of Assyria have reviled me. Behold, I will put a spirit in him, so that he shall hear a rumour and return to his own land, and I will make him fall by the sword in his own land.” The Rabshaketh returned with a letter that tried to stop Hezekiah trusting the Lord. He wisely took the letter to the House of the Lord and spread it before him. “O LORD, the God of Israel, enthroned above the cherubim, you are the God, you alone, of all the kingdoms of the earth; you have made heaven and earth. Incline your ear, O LORD, and hear; open your eyes, O LORD, and see; and hear the words of Sennacherib, which he has sent to mock the living God. ... So now, O LORD our God, save us, please, from his hand, that all the kingdoms of the earth may know that you, O LORD, are God alone.” Isaiah sent him a long message of assurance that concluded with the promise: “Therefore thus says the LORD concerning the king of Assyria: He shall not come into this city or shoot an arrow there, or come before it with a shield or cast up a siege mound against it. ... For I will defend this city to save it ...” And that night the angel of the LORD went out and struck down 185,000 in the camp of the Assyrians. Sennacherib returned to Assyria. And while he was worshipping his god, his two sons came and murdered him. The Lord Almighty delights to protect all who trust in him and bring the just glory to his name. For some, however, this may include the gift of a martyr’s crown. When Hezekiah became ill, Isaiah came and told him, “Thus says the LORD, Set your house in order, for you shall die; he pleaded with God.” He was not ready to die and pleaded with God. And God told Isaiah that he would live another 15 years, and would deliver Jerusalem from Assyria. Hezekiah then asked for a sign. The Lord gave him the more difficult sign that the sun’s shadow would go back ‘10 steps’ (rather than go forward 10 steps - degrees KJV). This is more, much more than just ‘difficult’! During these 15 years Manasseh, the most evil king of Judah, was born. Though even he repented at the end. Hezekiah also showed the king of Babylon’s son all his wealth when he came to visit him. Isaiah told him that the day would come when Babylon would come and take all the wealth of Judah from hs descendants. Hezekiah also made a tunnel to divert the Gihon spring so that it flowed inside the city walls instead of outside. |
| 2Kg 211-18 Manasseh (Judah) |
The most evil and longest reigning king (55 years). He built up again the high places, ... reared up altars for Baal ... worshipped all the host of heaven ... and he made his son pass through the fire. ... Manasseh seduced them to do more evil than did the nations whom the LORD destroyed before the children of Israel. 2Ch 33 tells us that the king of Assyria took him in hooks to Babylon where he repented. Then Manasseh knew that the LORD he was God. He was allowed to return to Jerusalem. There he destroyed all the idols and altars in the house of the Lord. Such is the amazing grace of God. Nevertheless the people of Jerusalem continued to sacrifice in the high places. It is always easier to entice men to sin than it is to encourage men to repent and plead with God for mercy. |
| 2Kg 2119-26 Amon (Judah) |
Amon reigned 2 years. And he did that which was evil in the sight of the LORD, as his father Manasseh did. ... And he forsook the LORD God of his fathers, and walked not in the way of the LORD. His servants murdered him. Then the people killed all those servants and made Josiah, the son of Amon, king. |
| 2Kg 221-20 Josiah (Judah) |
Josiah was only 8 when he began his 31 year reign. And he did that which was right in the sight of the LORD ... and he did not turn aside to the right or to the left. When he had reigned 18 years (aged 26) he commanded that the House of the Lord be repaired. Hilkiah, the High Priest, found the book of the law which Shaphan, the scribe, then read to the king. Josiah tore his clothes because he realised how great was their disobedience to the law of God. He told Hilkiah and Shaphan, “Go, inquire of the LORD for me, and for the people, and for all Judah, concerning the words of this book that has been found. For great is the wrath of the LORD that is kindled against us, because our fathers have not obeyed the words of this book.” They went to Huldah the prophetess. She declared, “Thus says the LORD, Behold, I will bring disaster upon this place and upon its inhabitants, all the words of the book that the king of Judah has read. Because they have forsaken me and have made offerings to other gods. ... But to the king of Judah say ... because your heart was penitent, and you humbled yourself before the LORD ... your eyes shall not see all the disaster that I will bring upon this place.” |
| 2Kg 231-27 Josiah’s life |
Josiah went up to the house of the Lord and read the Book of the Covenant. He deposed all the false priest who had offered sacrifices to idols. He brought out and burned the Asherah that was in the house of the Lord. He destroyed the houses of the male prostitutes. He removed the priests in the other cities and destroyed their high places. He defiled Topheth and stopped all offering of children to Molech. He destroyed the horses and chariots that were dedicated to the sun. He destroyed all the high places and Asherim that Solomon had built for Ashtoreth. He destroyed the altar and the Asherah at Bethel that Jeroboam had built. He destroyed all the shrines and high places that were in the cities of Samaria. Moreover, Josiah put away the mediums and the necromancers and the household gods and the idols and all the abominations that were seen in the land of Judah. There was no king like him, who turned to the LORD with all his heart and with all his soul and with all his might. In the eighteenth year of King Josiah the Passover was kept to the LORD in Jerusalem. |
| 2Kg 2328-30 Josiah dies |
In 609BC Pharaoh Neco went up to attack Assyria and had to pass through Israel. Josiah challenged him, but was killed in the battle at Megiddo. However this delayed Neco and enabled Babylon to defeat Assyria. |
| 2Kg 2331-35 Jehoahaz |
He only lasted 3 months doing what was evil in the sight of the Lord. He was taken off to Egypt by Neco and died there. |
| 2Kg 2336 - 247 Jehoiakim |
Neco put Jehoiakim, another son of Josiah, on the throne. But unlike his father, he did what was evil. He filled Jerusalem with innocent blood. Judah was forced to become a servant to Nebuchadnezzar who had defeated Egypt at Carchemish. 4 years later after Babylon and Egypt fought a costly but indecisive battle, Jehoiakim foolishly rebelled. But the Lord also sent bands of Chaldeans, Moabites and Ammonites to destroy Judah. And soon Nebucadnezzar returned and besieged Jerusalem. Jehoikim lasted 11 very troubled years. |
| 2Kg 248-17 Jehoiachin |
After 3 months he surrendered to the siege and was taken to Babylon, together with all the Temple treasures, the best craftsmen, smiths, men of valour, plus Daniel and his 3 friends. Nebuchadnezzar made Jehoichin’s uncle, Zedekiah, king. |
| 2Kg 2418 - 2526 Zedekiah |
Jeremiah details much of his evil 11 year reign. In his 9th year Zedekiah rebelled against the king of Babylon. Nebuchadnezzar made a total 18 month siege of Jerusalem. Then he destroyed the city, the Temple, enslaved the people, killed Zedekiah’s sons and then blinded him and took him to Babylon. Gedaliah was appointed governor of the remnant, but he was soon killed. |
| 2Kg 2527-30 Jehoiachin released |
The book ends some 26 years later when Jehoiachin (aged 44) is released from prison in Babylon by the Amel-Marduk when he became king after Nebuchadnezzar died. He was granted a seat at the king’s table. Such is the grace of God. |
1 and 2 Chronicles [Contents]
1 Ch 1 - 8 details the genealogy from Adam to Saul and ch 9 of the returned exiles.
1 Ch 10 - 29 gives the history of David.
2 Ch 1 - 9 continues with history of Solomon.
2 Ch 10 - 36 gives the history of Judah’s kings from Rehoboam to Zedekiah.
The two books were originally one and probably written by Ezra in ~440 BC
| 1Ch 11-27 Adam to Abraham |
Each generation named |
| 1Ch28-53 Ishmael and Esau |
These names are not part of God’s covenant with Abraham. Don’t know why God has included these names in Scripture. |
| 1Ch David and his family David and his family |
The first 15 verses give the genealogy of David. The remainder give the genealogy details of the different tribes of Israel. |
| 1Ch 8 Saul |
Genealogy of Saul and the Benjamites. |
| 1Ch 9 Post exile to Babylon |
Genealogy of Israelites returning from Babylon. |
| 1Ch 10 Death of Saul |
1Ch now turns from genealogy to history. In Saul’s final battle with the Philistines he is badly wounded. His armour bearer refuses to kill him, so he falls on his own sword. The men of Jabesh-gilead retrieved his body and buried him in Jabesh. He broke faith with the LORD in that he did not keep the command of the LORD, and also consulted a medium, seeking guidance. He did not seek guidance from the LORD. Therefore the LORD put him to death and turned the kingdom over to David the son of Jesse.
David mourned for Saul and Jonathan and enquired of the Lord if he should go up into any of the cities of Judah. And he said, “To Hebron.” 2Sam 117 - 27 |
| 1Ch 111-9 David anointed |
All Israel gathered to David at Hebron and anointed him as their king. David made a covenant with all the elders of Israel and Judah before the Lord. (and 2Sam 51) David became greater and greater, for the LORD of hosts was with him. |
| 1Ch 1110 - 1240 Mighty men |
The 3 greatest and then the 30 others are listed with their war achievements. Also what various tribes did for David. One of the most valuable was Of Issachar, men who had understanding of the times, to know what Israel ought to do. Every generation needs men like this; but men with godly wisdom have always been rare. |
| 1Ch 131 - 1727 David, the Ark and The Covenant |
David consulted with all the commanders, “If it seems good to you and from the LORD our God ... let us bring again the ark of our God to us.” They agreed. So they brought the Ark from Kiriath-Jearim on a new cart. But when the oxen stumbled, Uzzah put out his hand to the ark, and he died there before God. Thus the Ark stayed at the house of Obed-edom - and God blessed him. (Also 2Sam 61-15) After 3 months David brought the Ark to Jerusalem with great rejoicing. He sang: Oh give thanks to the LORD; call upon his name; make known his deeds among the peoples! Sing to him, sing praises to him; tell of all his wondrous works! Glory in his holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the LORD rejoice! Seek the LORD and his strength; seek his presence continually! Remember the wondrous works that he has done, his miracles and the judgments he uttered, O offspring of Israel his servant, children of Jacob, his chosen ones! ... Save us, O God of our salvation, and gather and deliver us from among the nations, that we may give thanks to your holy name and glory in your praise. Blessed be the LORD, the God of Israel, from everlasting to everlasting!” Then all the people said, “Amen!” and praised the LORD. David left Asaph and his brothers there before the ark of the covenant of the LORD to minister regularly before the ark as each day required.
Meanwhile David built a house with cedar from Tyre for himself and his additional wives. He also enquired of the Lord if he should attack the Philistines when they came up against him at Rephaim. And the LORD said to him, “Go up, and I will give them into your hand.” David struck them down and burned the gods they left behind. They came up against David again. When David enquired of God he was told to wait till he heard the sound of marching in the tops of the balsam trees. He obeyed and defeated them again. |
| 1Ch 181-17 Enemies defeated |
Without giving details the Lord gave victory to David wherever he went, over all his enemies - Philistines, Moab, Syria, Edom, Ammon and Amalek. He dedicated all the gold, silver and bronze to the Lord. He administered justice and equity to all his people. |
| 1Ch 191 - 203 Foolish Ammonites |
David sent messengers with consolation to Hanun, king of Ammonites, when his father, who had been friendly to David, died. But Hanun completely misjudged the gesture and disgraced the messengers by shaving off their beards and cutting off the lower half of their garments. Realising his mistake, instead of apologising, Hanun hired chariots and horsemen from Mesopotamia. David sent Joab to fight the Ammonites and the Syrians. They fled. The Syrians gathered their army to face David who defeated them killing 7,000 charioteers and 40,000 foot soldiers plus their army commander. Thus Ammon became subject to David. Later Joab was sent to ravage the Ammonites. He took the kings crown (75 lb of gold + precious stone) and the people were enslaved to work with saws, picks and axes. |
| 1Ch 204-8 Giants killed |
War with the Philistines. Giants from Gath were struck down by David’s ‘mighty men’. Goliath by David (previously) Sibbecia by Sippai, Lahmi by Elhanan, and a man with 6 fingers of each hand and 6 toes on each foot by Jonathan (David’s nephew). The latter giant had been foolish enough to taunt Israel. We are not told how each one fell, except for Goliath - whole of 1 Sam 17. But as it is said for each of them, ‘the bigger they are, the harder they fall!’ |
| 1Ch 211-30 Census |
Then Satan stood against Israel and incited David to number Israel. Joab resisted David’s command for the census, but the king’s word prevailed against Joab. When God struck Israel, David immediately confessed that he had sinned greatly. And God gave David 3 choices: 3 years famine, 3 months when the enemy’s sword prevails, or 3 days of pestilence (the sword of the Lord). David chose the latter. “Let me fall into the hand of the LORD, for his mercy is very great, but do not let me fall into the hand of man.” 70,000 men of Israel fell. But when the angel of the Lord was about to destroy Jerusalem, the Lord declared, “It is enough.” When David saw the angel of the Lord, he pleaded that it was he who has sinned, not these sheep. He then obey the prophet’s instruction to build an altar on the threshing floor of Ornan the Jebusite. Although Ornan offered for free, David insisted in paying the full price for the floor, the oxen, the wheat and the wood for the sacrifice. 600 shekels of gold. (8¼ lbs ~ £170, 000) David set up the offering and called upon the Lord. He sent fire from heaven and commanded the angel to sheath his sword. |
| 1Ch 221-19 Temple preparation |
God stopped David from building the Temple, but not from making preparation for his son Solomon to do so. David was promised that a son of his would build an eternal kingdom - Jesus Christ. Meanwhile David first commands Solomon, “Only, may the LORD grant you discretion and understanding, that when he gives you charge over Israel you may keep the law of the LORD your God. ... Be strong and courageous. Fear not; do not be dismayed.” He also provided Solomon with 100,000 talents of gold, a million talents of silver. Also an abundance of bronze, iron and timber. (Today 1 talent gold = £1.5m so 100,000 talents = £150 billion + £23 billion Silver) David’s final instruction was set your mind and heart to seek the LORD your God. This would enable him honour the Lord. But history reveals he became distracted. |
| 1Ch 23-27 Organisation |
Five chapters of how David organised the Levites, Priests, Musicians, Gatekeepers, Finance, Military divisions, Leaders of tribes and David’s land. Mostly names. |
| 1Ch 281-8 Charge to Israel |
Out of all Israel, God has chosen Judah as leader, “I will establish his kingdom forever if he continues strong in keeping my commandments. ... therefore ... observe and seek out all the commandments of the LORD your God, that you may possess this good land and leave it for an inheritance to your children after you forever.” |
| 1Ch 289-21 Charge to Solomon |
Solomon my son, know the God of your father and serve him with a whole heart and with a willing mind, for the LORD searches all hearts and understands every plan and thought. If you seek him, he will be found by you, but if you forsake him, he will cast you off forever. He then records how he told Solomon the plans for the Temple. Finally, “Be strong and courageous and do it. Do not be afraid and do not be dismayed, for the LORD God, even my God, is with you.” |
| 1Ch 291-9 Offerings to the Lord |
David said, “In addition to all that I have provided for the holy house, I have a treasure of my own of gold and silver, and because of my devotion to the house of my God I give it to the house of my God.” And following David’s example the leaders of the tribes of Israel also made their offering to the Lord. Then the people rejoiced because they had given willingly, for with a whole heart they had offered freely to the LORD. David the king also rejoiced greatly. |
| 1Ch 2910-21 David prays |
David leads the assembly in prayer: “Blessed are you, O LORD, the God of Israel our father, forever and ever. Yours, O LORD, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the victory and the majesty, for all that is in the heavens and in the earth is yours. Yours is the kingdom, O LORD, and you are exalted as head above all. ... We are strangers before you and sojourners, as all our fathers were. Our days on the earth are like a shadow, and there is no abiding.” O LORD, the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Israel, our fathers, keep forever such purposes and thoughts in the hearts of your people, and direct their hearts toward you. Grant to Solomon my son a whole heart that he may keep your commandments.” And all the assembly blessed the LORD, the God of their fathers ... And they ate and drank before the LORD on that day with great gladness. |
| 1Ch 2922-25 Solomon anointed king |
Sometime before David died Adonijah tried to replace David as king. He failed. David instructed Zadok to anoint Solomon as king. (See 1Kg 1) Now David makes Solomon king. And the LORD made Solomon very great in the sight of all Israel. |
| 1Ch 2926-30 David dies |
It is commonly said, “All good things come to an end.” In this case it is true. David died at a good age, full of days, riches, and honour. He had achieved much through the hand of the Lord whom he served with zeal. He did not get everything right; but he repented, trusted in God and was forgiven. |
2 Chronicles [Contents]
| 2Ch 11-17 Solomon king |
Solomon had David as his father, plus wisdom, wealth and power in abundance. Furthermore the LORD his God was with him and made him exceedingly great. When God offered him the choice of gifts to enable him to reign, he chose wisdom . God was pleased with his choice and said, “I will also give you riches, possessions, and honour,” which he did. God made gold, silver and cedar as plentiful as stone in Jerusalem. Solomon also had 1,400 chariots and 12,000 horsemen. So it must be said he was given a brilliant start to his 40 year reign. |
| 2Ch 21 - 514 Temple built |
Solomon assigned 70,000 men to bear burdens and 80,000 to quarry in the hill country, and 3,600 to oversee them. Hiram, king of Tyre, agrees to request for a skilled craftsman + cedar + woodsmen and is paid 3,200 tons of wheat, 2,800 tons of barley, 100,000 galls of wine and 100,000 gall of oil. Hiram says, “Blessed be the LORD God of Israel, who made heaven and earth, who has given King David a wise son ...” Building the Temple began on Mt Moriah, on the threshing floor of Ornan. It is described in detail together with all the furnishings and vessels. When it was finished, the Ark was brought to Most Holy Place and the Lord is praised. “For he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever.” And the glory of the Lord filled the house of God. |
| 2Ch 61-42 Solomon Blesses people |
“Blessed be the LORD, the God of Israel, who with his hand has fulfilled what he promised ... I have chosen Jerusalem that my name may be there, and I have chosen David to be over my people Israel. ... Now the LORD has fulfilled his promise that he made.” However the Temple would not last for ever and David had already died. But ‘great David’s greater Son would come first as Redeemer and then at the end he will return as King for ever. Then Solomon prayed: “O LORD, God of Israel, there is no God like you, in heaven or on earth, keeping covenant and showing steadfast love to your servants who walk before you with all their heart, ... Now therefore, O LORD, God of Israel, let your word be confirmed ... If a man sins against his neighbour ... If your people Israel are defeated ... When heaven is shut up and there is no rain ... If they sin against you and you are angry ... if they repent with all their heart and with all their soul in the land of their captivity to which they were carried captive, ... then hear from heaven your dwelling place their prayer and their pleas, and maintain their cause and forgive your people who have sinned against you.” Compare this with how Daniel prayed in Babylon in Dan 9. Solomon is asking that future sinners should be relieved from the just punishment; Daniel confessed the sin committed by the nation. He prayed for forgiveness and that God’s name would not be brought into disrepute. |
| 2Ch 71-22 Fire + God’s promise |
As soon as Solomon finished his prayer, fire came down from heaven and consumed the burnt offering and the sacrifices, and the glory of the LORD filled the temple. The Lord made it clear that the offerings were accepted. But they would not be permanent or benefit the other sinful nations. They would however point to the one perfect sacrifice who would come to Jerusalem a 1,000 years later. The Son of God would come, be crucified and cry out on the Cross, “It is finished!” And this would enable all who sinned to be totally forgiven and rejoice in the presence of God for ever. Then the LORD appeared to Solomon in the night and said to him: “I have heard your prayer ... if my people who are called by my name humble themselves, and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land. God has faithfully kept this word, and will continue to do so. But in the same way that he warned Adam in Gen 217 “In the day that you eat of it, you will surely die,” he also warned Solomon. “But if you turn aside and forsake my statutes ... then I will pluck you up from my land that I have given you.” And this Almighty God had to do - twice! (586 BC and 70 AD) |
| 2Ch 81-18 Solomon builds |
It took 20 years for Solomon to build the Templ plus his own house. He made slaves of the remnant of the Hittites, Amorites and Perizzites to build the various store and chariot cities. But of the people of Israel Solomon made no slaves for his work. He also built a separate house for Pharaoh’s daughter who he had married. “My wife shall not live in the house of David king of Israel, for the places to which the ark of the LORD has come are holy.” He also kept the Sabbaths, the new moons, and the three annual feasts. He procured ships and sailors from Hiram who brought gold from Ophir - 450 talents (15 tons = £700 million). |
| 2Ch 91-12 Queen of Sheba |
She came with much gold and spices to test Solomon with hard questions. He passed the exam with flying colours. She said, “Half the greatness of your wisdom was not told me ... Happy are your wives! Blessed be the LORD your God, who has delighted in you. But she did not realise the danger and the folly of having so many foreign wives that caused him to forsake the Lord God. |
| 2Ch 913-31 Solomon’s wealth |
He was obsessed by gold; silver was so common it had little value. He made himself a great ivory throne overlaid with gold that also had a footstool with a lion on the end of each of the 6 steps. Once every three years the ships of Tarshish used to come bringing gold, silver, ivory, apes, and peacocks. Thus King Solomon excelled all the kings of the earth in riches and in wisdom. For all his wisdom, power, reputation and wealth Solomon failed. He forgot the prime need for all men to walk humbly with your God. Mic 68 He reigned for 40 years and died leaving a divided kingdom. Neither the 11 tribes of Israel in the north nor the tribe of Judah in the south followed or honoured the Lord God. This is surely an often unheeded warning that an abundance of wealth, sex and power are dangerous. Pride and self-confidence can easily destroy even the wisest of men. See 1 Kg 11 for the reason God was angry with Solomon. |
| 2Ch 101 - 1216 Rehoboam |
Rehoboam went to Shechem expecting to be made king. But when Jeroboam returned from his banishment to Egypt, he requested he reduced the heavy yoke that Solomon had imposed. Instead of seeking the word of the Lord he heeded the advice of the young and foolish men. His disastrous decision was, “My father disciplined you with whips, but I will discipline you with scorpions.” So David’s kingdom divided. All the northern tribes followed Jeroboam. Rehoboam fled to Jerusalem; only Judah and Benjamin followed him. He wanted to attack the northern tribes, but the word of the LORD came to Shemaiah the man of God: ... “You shall not go up or fight against your relatives. Return every man to his home.” And on this occasion they listened to the word of the LORD. Rehoboam built cities and made them strong. Jeroboam exiled all the priests and Levites in the northern tribes, so they came to Jerusalem and strengthened Judah for 3 years. Jeroboam appointed his own priests for the high places. They made idols. Rehoboam married 18 wives (+ 60 concubines). When the rule of Rehoboam was established and he was strong, he abandoned the law of the LORD, and all Israel with him. In the fifth year of King Rehoboam, because they had been unfaithful to the LORD, Shishak king of Egypt came up against Jerusalem. ... He took away the treasures of the house of the LORD and the treasures of the king's house. He took away everything. He reigned a further 12 years. His mother's name was Naamah the Ammonite. And he did evil, for he did not set his heart to seek the LORD. It wasn’t only what he did was evil, it was what he omitted to do. The world badly needs to learn from the history of this king who lost all. |
| 2Ch 131-22 Abijah |
There was total war between Abijah and Jeroboam, but the cause is not revealed. Abijah had 400,000 chosen men and Jeroboam had 800,000. Abijah claimed that the Lord had given the kingship to the sons of David and Jeroboam ought not to trust he could win because you are a great multitude and have with you the golden calves that Jeroboam made you for gods. ... But as for us, the LORD is our God, and we have not forsaken him. Abijah relied on the LORD. God defeated Jeroboam because they relied on the LORD. 500,000 men of Israel were slain. Abijah only reigned 3 years. He had 14 wives and 38 children! |
| 2Ch 141-8 Asa - a summary |
In his days the land had rest for ten years. Asa did what was good and right in the eyes of the LORD his God. He took away the foreign altars and the high places and broke down the pillars and cut down the Asherim and commanded Judah to seek the LORD. They had peace, but wisely, Asa still built fortified cities. But how did all this come about? The next 2½ chapters tells us. |
| 2Ch 1410 - 1519 Asa 1st 35 years |
When Zerah, the Ethiopian attacked with a million men, Asa cried to the Lord ... . “Help us, O LORD our God, for we rely on you, and in your name we have come against this multitude. O LORD, you are our God; let not man prevail against you.” So the LORD defeated the Ethiopians. They fell until none remained alive! Judah carried away very much spoil. I wonder how such a battle would be reported today? The Spirit of God came upon Azariah ... “If you seek him, he will be found by you, but if you forsake him, he will forsake you. For a long time Israel was without the true God, and without a teaching priest and without law, but when in their distress they turned to the LORD, the God of Israel, and sought him, he was found by them. In those times there was no peace ...” It was now the 15th year of his reign. Asa heard this word from the Lord and put away all the detestable idols - as in summary. They sacrificed and entered into a covenant to seek the Lord with all their heart and with all their soul. ... and the LORD gave them rest all around. And there was no more war until the thirty-fifth year of the reign of Asa. |
| 2Ch 161-14 Asa last 3 years |
When Asa was old, Baasha , king of Israel started to build Ramah, a few miles N. of Jerusalem. This would block all trade from the north. So Asa sent some gold and silver from the house of the Lord to Ben-Hadad, king of Syria to persuade him to stop Baasha’s aggression. He agreed, and the building of Ramah stopped. The men of Judah then carried away all the stone and timber. But the Lord sent Hanani the seer to Asa to reprimand him for not trusting in the Lord as he did when the Ethiopians attacked Judah. Asa was angry with Hanani. And so in his last 3 years Asa suffered a chronic disease in his feet. But in this trouble he did not seek the Lord. It was a sad end for a good king. |
| 2Ch 171 - 193 Jehoshaphat and Ahab |
The LORD was with Jehoshaphat, because ... sought the God of his father and walked in his commandments. ... His heart was courageous in the ways of the LORD. And the fear of the LORD fell upon all the kingdoms of the lands that were around Judah, and they made no war against Jehoshaphat. But he also made a marriage alliance with Ahab, king of Israel. When Ahab wanted his help in fighting against Ramoth-gilead, he gathered his prophets to gain approval. He did not want Jehoshaphat to enquire of the Lord from Micaiah, because he (rightly) never prophesied good for Ahab. After a false start Micaiah said, “I saw all Israel scattered on the mountains, as sheep that have no shepherd. And the LORD said, ‘These have no master; let each return to his home in peace.’” Ahab commanded that Micaiah be imprisoned until I return in peace. And Micaiah said, “If you return in peace, the LORD has not spoken by me.” So they went to battle against Ramoth-gilead. The king of Syria had told his commanders that he only wanted the death of Ahab. Although Ahab disguised himself, by chance he was shot with an arrow. At sunset he died. But the Jehoshaphat was spared when he called upon the Lord. We are not told if Micaiah was set free. Jehoshaphat returned to Jerusalem. Jehu the son of Hanani the seer said to him, “Should you help the wicked and love those who hate the LORD? Because of this, wrath has gone out against you from the LORD. Nevertheless, some good is found in you, for you destroyed the Asheroth out of the land, and have set your heart to seek God.” |
| 2Ch 194 - 2017 J. Reforms |
Jehoshaphat appoints judges in all fortified cities to administer justice to all. “Now then, let the fear of the LORD be upon you. Be careful what you do, for there is no injustice with the LORD our God, or partiality.” When Moab, Ammon and Edom came up to fight Judah, Jehoshaphat was afraid and set his face to seek the LORD, and proclaimed a fast throughout all Judah. When assembled he prayed to the Lord who had given them the land. “O our God, will you not execute judgment on them? For we are powerless against this great horde that is coming against us. We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on you.” Then the Spirit of the Lord came upon Jahaziel ... Thus says the LORD to you, Do not be afraid and do not be dismayed at this great horde, for the battle is not yours but God's. Tomorrow go down against them. ... You will not need to fight in this battle. Stand firm, hold your position, and see the salvation of the LORD on your behalf ... and the priests stood up to praise the LORD, the God of Israel, with a very loud voice. Next morning Jehoshaphat told the people, “Believe in the LORD your God, and you will be established ... Give thanks to the LORD, for his steadfast love endures forever.” Jehoshaphat set the singers in front of the army and when they began to sing and praise, the LORD set an ambush against the men of Ammon, Moab, and Mount Seir. And they destroyed each other. The spoil taken by Judah was so much they could not carry it all. And the fear of God came on all the kingdoms of the countries when they heard that the LORD had fought against the enemies of Israel. So God gave Judah peace and quiet for the rest of his 25 year reign. Jehoshaphat did what was right in the sight of the LORD. He did however join with Ahaziah, king of Israel to build ships to trade with Tarshish. Their ships were wrecked. In Judah the high places, however, were not taken away; the people had not yet set their hearts upon the God of their fathers. Other leaders found that though they honoured the Lord, the people still kept and worshipped their idols quietly. See Josh 2414-28 Also when Manasseh repented, the people did not. When Josiah cleansed the Temple the people did not give up their evil ways. |
| 2Ch 211-20 Jehoram |
Kingship at 32. He killed his 6 brothers to whom his father had given much gold and made rulers of fortified cities. Jehoram did what was evil in the sight of the LORD, for the daughter of Ahab was his wife. He led Judah into whoredom. The surrounding nations revolted against Judah and took away his wealth, his wives and his children. He died of an incurable bowel disease in great agony after 8 years, and no one mourned him, as Elijah had warned him in a letter. Not buried in tombs of the kings. |
| 2Ch 221-9 Ahaziah |
Another evil king who only reigned for 1 year. Killed by Jehu. |
| 2Ch 2210 - 2315 Athaliah |
Mother of Ahaziah immediately killed all Ahaziah’s children except Joash, who was hidden by Jehoashabeath (daughter of Jehoram and wife of Jehoiada the priest). After 6 years, Jehoiada secretly summoned all the Levites in Judah to the house of the Lord and made Joash king. They executed Athaliah. |
| 2Ch 2316-21 Jehoiada’s reforms |
Jehoiada the priest ruled for the 7 year-old Joash for 7 years and made a covenant that they should be the Lord’s people. He destroyed the house of Baal and his images and killed the priest Baal. So all the people of the land rejoiced, and the city was quiet after Athaliah had been put to death with the sword. |
| 2Ch 241-27 Joash |
Joash did what was right in the eyes of the LORD all the days of Jehoiada the priest. Joash and Jehoiada used the money collected to restore the house of God. But after Jehoiada died (aged 130) the king listened to the princes of Judah and abandoned the house of the Lord and served the Asherim and the idols. They rejected all the prophets that the Lord sent to correct them and stoned Zechariah the son of Jehoiada who had told them, “Because you have forsaken the LORD, he has forsaken you.” The Syrians came and defeated Joash leaving him severely wounded. They destroyed all the princes and took all the spoil to Damascus. Joash’s Moabite and Ammonite servants killed him, but did not bury him in the tombs of the kings. He reigned 40 years. |
| 2Ch 251-28 Amaziah |
Amaziah did what was right in the eyes of the LORD, yet not with a whole heart. He killed all the servants who had murdered his father. In his first battle with Edom he hired 100,000 men from Israel to join his 300,000. But a man of God told him to trust God and not use the Israelites. He obeyed. He defeated the Edomites. But the discharged Israelites were angry and raided several Judean cities. Amaziah foolishly took the gods of Edom and started worshipping them. He continued even when a prophet warned him that God was angry. Amaziah then threatened Joash, king of Israel, who told him not to be so foolish. But Amaziah would not listen, for it was of God, in order that he might give them into the hand of their enemies. Joash defeated him in battle, destroyed part of the wall surrounding Jerusalem and seized much gold and silver. He did not kill Amaziah, who turned away from the LORD. |
| 2Ch 261-23 Uzziah |
Uzziah reigned for 52 years. He set himself to seek God in the days of Zechariah, who instructed him in the fear of God, and as long as he sought the LORD, God made him prosper. God helped him against the Philistines, the Arabians and the Ammonites. But as so often happens, when he was strong, he grew proud, to his destruction. For he was unfaithful to the LORD his God and entered the temple of the LORD to burn incense on the altar of incense. He was angry with the priests when they told him he was wrong. He became a leper for the rest of his life (9 years), living in a separate house and his son Jotham governed the land. |
| 2Ch 271-9 Jotham |
He did what was right in the eyes of the Lord ... But the people still followed corrupt practices. He fought and prevailed against the Ammonites. He reigned for 16 years. |
| 2Ch 281-27 Ahaz |
This evil king even made metal images for the Baals, burned his sons to Molech and sacrificed on the high places. Therefore the LORD his God gave him into the hand of the king of Syria ... He was also given into the hand of the king of Israel. Ahaz sought help from Assyria, but instead Tiglath-pileser came against him! Edom and the Philistines also defeated Judah. In the time of his distress he became yet more faithless to the LORD ... provoking to anger the LORD. He was not buried in the tombs of the kings. |
| 2Ch 291 - 3233 Hezekiah |
He did what was right in the eyes of the LORD and reigned for29 years. In the first year of his reign, in the first month, he opened the doors of the house of the LORD and repaired them. He instructed the priests to light the lamps and restart offering neglected sacrifices. They and the people were glad to obey.
Hezekiah then summoned all Israel and Judah to come to Jerusalem and celebrate Passover. They came. Their thanks to the Lord was so great that they kept the feast for a further 7 days. So there was great joy in Jerusalem. When complete, the people went out and destroyed all the pillars, the Asherim, the high places and altars. |
| 2Ch 331-20 Manasseh |
Only 12 when he began his 55 year evil reign. Manasseh led Judah and the inhabitants of Jerusalem astray, to do more evil than the nations whom the LORD destroyed. He rebuilt the high places, erected altars to Baal, made Asheroth and altars in the house of the Lord, burned his sons and used mediums. A rebel. In spite of all this evil, The LORD spoke to Manasseh and to his people, but they paid no attention. Therefore the LORD brought upon them the commanders of the army of the king of Assyria, who captured Manasseh with hooks and bound him with chains of bronze and brought him to Babylon. In Babylon Manasseh humbled himself greatly and pleaded with God. The Gracious Lord heard his cry and brought him back to Jerusalem. Then Manasseh knew that the LORD was God. He destroyed all the altars he had built earlier and restored the altar of the Lord. There is no doubt about his sincere repentance, but the people did not follow his example. Nor did his son, Amon |
| 2Ch 3321-25 Amon |
Reigned for just 2 years, doing evil. His servants murdered him. But the people struck down all who had conspired against Amon. |
| 2Ch 341 - 3527 Josiah |
When Josiah was 16, he began to seek the God of David his father. When 20, he began to purge Judah and Jerusalem of the high places, the Asherim, and the carved and the metal images. He even made dust of all the various images and scattered it over the graves. This cleansing was throughout Judah, not just Jerusalem. When 26 he ordered the restoring of the house of the Lord. They found the Book of the Law, and read it. Josiah tore his clothes. ... For great is the wrath of the LORD that is poured out on us, because our fathers have not kept the word of the LORD. They enquired of the Lord and Huldah the prophetess said that Judah would be destroyed but not until after Josiah died, because he humbled himself and wept before the Lord. Having gathered all the elders of Judah the king stood in his place and made a covenant before the LORD, to walk after the LORD and to keep his commandments. And all his days they did not turn away from following the LORD. That same year Josiah celebrated the Passover for a week and made a huge offering to the Lord, which was distributed to the people. None of the kings of Israel had kept such a Passover as was kept by Josiah. 13 years later (when he was 39), Pharaoh Neco went up to fight at Carchemish. He had to pass through Israel. Though warned not to interfere, Josiah opposed him at Megiddo and was killed. All Judah and Jerusalem mourned for Josiah - Judah’s best king since David. Jeremiah also uttered a lament for Josiah. The delay meant that Egypt with only the remnants of Assyria had to fight the full might of Babylon under the young Nebuchadnezzar. Neco lost this decisive battle at Carchemish in 605 BC. |
| 2Ch 361-16 Jehoahaz, Jehoiakim, Jehoiachin, Zedekiah |
Jehoahaz only reigned 3 months until deposed by Egypt. Neco took Jehoahaz to Egypt and made his brother Jehoiakim king in his place. He reigned for 11 years and did evil in the sight of the Lord. Then Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon bound him in chains to take him to Babylon. He also took many of the gold vessels from the house of the Lord. Jehoiachin was only 18 when he became king and lasted 3½ months before being taken to Babylon. Babylon appointed Zedekiah as king. He lasted 11 years doing evil and refusing to listen to Jeremiah the prophet. He rebelled against Babylon and he stiffened his neck and hardened his heart against turning to the LORD. ... they kept mocking the messengers of God, despising his words and scoffing at his prophets, until the wrath of the LORD rose against his people, until there was no remedy. |
| 2Ch 3617-21 Jerusalem destroyed |
After an 18 month siege, Nebuchadnezzar destroyed Jerusalem and the Temple. He killed or enslaved all the people, and took all the treasures. This fulfilled the word of the LORD by the mouth of Jeremiah, until the land had enjoyed its Sabbaths. |
| 2Ch 3622,23 A postscript of mercy |
As Jeremiah had prophesied, the LORD stirred up the spirit of Cyrus king of Persia, so that he made a proclamation throughout all his kingdom and also put it in writing: “Thus says Cyrus king of Persia, ‘The LORD, the God of heaven, has given me all the kingdoms of the earth, and he has charged me to build him a house at Jerusalem, which is in Judah. Whoever is among you of all his people, may the LORD his God be with him. Let him go up.’” This also was fulfilled 50 years later in 536 BC. The word of the Lord Almighty is always fulfilled. Only fools despise it. |
Ezra [Contents]
When the Jews rejected the Lord God in the days of Jeremiah, he exiled them to Babylon. But he remained faithful to the people of Israel and his covenant with them. They were slaves in Babylon from 605 to 536BC. Then in accordance with his word in Is 4428 451,13 and Jer 5111 Cyrus, the king of Persia set them free to return to Jerusalem and rebuild the Temple. Nearly 60 years later Ezra recounts the story of their return and the rebuilding.
| Ezra 1,2 Cyrus fulfills God’s word |
Right on time (536BC) The LORD stirred up the spirit of Cyrus king of Persia. Cyrus says, “The LORD, the God of heaven, has given me all the kingdoms of the earth, and he has charged me to build him a house at Jerusalem, which is in Judah.” He even gave them all the 5,400 vessels of gold and silver that Nebuchadnezzar had taken from the Temple. The number of each family of Israel that returned are listed; a total of about 50,000. When they arrived back in Jerusalem they offered 950lb of gold (~£20 million) and nearly 3 tons of silver (~1¼ million). |
| Ezra 3 Rebuilding Temple starts |
In Jerusalem the Jews were led by Jeshua, son of Jozadak, the priest and Zerubbabel, son of Shealtiel, as prime minister. They first built the altar to the God of Israel, offered burnt offerings and kept the feast of Booths. Then they laid the foundation of the Temple and sang responsively, praising and giving thanks to the LORD, “For he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever toward Israel.” Some of the old men who had seen the grandeur of the first Temple wept - the new one seemed so much smaller. |
| Ezra 4 Opposition halts building |
When the people of Samaria asked Zerubbabel if they could help build the Temple, their offer was declined. So they set about discouraging the building. They wrote to Artaxerxes (who succeeded Cyrus) warning him that if this city is rebuilt and the walls finished, they will not pay tribute. And if he would research the written history he would find that this city is a rebellious city, hurtful to kings and provinces, and that sedition was stirred up in it from of old. That was why this city was laid waste. Evil men will twist the truth: the Jews were not building the city walls, only the Temple, and the city was destroyed because of sedition against Almighty God, not Babylon. But the king believed their lies and ordered the building to stop. |
| Ezra 5,6 Building restarts and completed |
Haggai and Zechariah prophesied to the returned exiles that they should repent and restart the Temple reconstruction. They obeyed Hag 112 Zech 16 . Tattenai the governor wrote to Darius the king of Persia asking him to check that Cyrus had not only instructed the rebuilding of the Jewish Temple, but had released the Jews and even made provision for it. Darius made the search and found it correct and therefore declared: Let the work on this house of God alone. Let the governor of the Jews and the elders of the Jews rebuild this house of God on its site. And he added that The cost is to be paid to these men in full and without delay from the royal revenue ... whatever is needed. So the Jews completed the rebuilding without any further delay and celebrated the dedication of this house of God with joy in 516 BC, exactly 70 years after its destruction by Nebuchadnezzar in 586 BC. |
| Ezra 7,8 Ezra returns and teaches |
The story now moves on from history to a personal account of events nearly 60 years later, in 458 BC. Ezra bring another large group of Jews back to Jerusalem from Babylon. He was a scribe skilled in the Law of Moses that the LORD, the God of Israel, had given. Artaxerxes gave Ezra a letter affirming the departure of the Jews and a significant offering from the kings treasury to encourage the work in Jerusalem. Let it be done in full for the house of the God of heaven, lest his wrath be against the realm of the king and his sons. Before leaving Ezra proclaimed a fast to humble themselves before the Lord and to seek his protection for their journey. So Ezra returned with much blessing from the Lord God and from the king of Persia. |
| Ezra 9,10 Intermarriage problem |
After arrival it soon became apparent that the Jews already in Jerusalem had not only married Canaanite (and other) foreign women, but had begun to worship their gods. He cried to the Lord God and confessed their sin. O LORD, the God of Israel, you are just, for we are left a remnant that has escaped, as it is today. Behold, we are before you in our guilt, for none can stand before you because of this. Therefore let us make a covenant with our God to put away all these wives and their children. Just over 100 men are listed as having married foreign wives. No doubt with great heartache they pledged themselves to put away their wives, and their guilt offering was a ram of the flock for their guilt. This difficult cleansing ends the book of Ezra. The story is then given more detail in the next book, Nehemiah. |
Nehemiah [Contents]
In 445 BC, 13 years after Ezra returned to Jerusalem, the Bible records how Nehemiah comes to leave Babylon and returns to Jerusalem. Down the ages, Nehemiah has inspired many men who were called into leading God’s people.
| Neh 1 Nehemiah prays |
Nehemiah was a cupbearer and confident of the Persian ruler in Susa. He heard that situation in Jerusalem was so bad that he wept and mourned for many days. And most important, he prayed: O LORD God of heaven, the great and awesome God who keeps covenant ... now I pray confessing the sins of the people of Israel, which we have sinned against you. ... Give success to your servant today, and grant him mercy. |
| Neh 21-8 King grants his request |
The king said to me, “Why is your face sad?” Nehemiah did not give a false answer but told him the truth: “The city, the place of my fathers' graves, lies in ruins, and its gates have been destroyed by fire?” Then the king said to me, “What are you requesting?” So I prayed to the God of heaven. And I said to the king, “If it pleases the king, and if your servant has found favor in your sight, that you send me to Judah, to the city of my fathers' graves, that I may rebuild it.” The king asked him how long he would need to be away. Having told him, he asked for letters with the king’s authority. The king granted me what I asked, for the good hand of my God was upon me. And he went to Jerusalem for 13 years. The Lord Almighty enabled Nebuchadnezzar and Darius to trust, Daniel; and now Artaxerxes trusts Nehemiah. |
| Neh 29-20 Nehemiah arrives and plans |
Nehemiah arrived in Judah. Sanballat the Horonit and Tobiah the Ammonite were surprised to be shown the king’s letters and especially to see the armed men that the king had sent to protect him. As with any satanic people, It displeased them greatly that someone had come to seek the welfare of the people of Israel. After 3 days in Jerusalem Nehemiah inspected the walls by night, because he knew it wiser not to tell anyone of his purpose in coming to the city. Only then did he say to the leaders there. “Come, let us build the wall of Jerusalem, that we may no longer suffer derision.” And I told them of the hand of my God that had been upon me for good, and also of the words that the king had spoken to me. And they said, “Let us rise up and build.” They agreed and set to work. Sanballat, Tobiah and Geshem the Arab jeered at us and despised us. Nehemiah, trusting in God, replied with the truth: “The God of heaven will make us prosper, and we his servants will arise and build, but you have no portion or right or claim in Jerusalem.” Compare this with modern so-called faith and inclusivism. Nehemiah has much to teach today’s leaders. |
| Neh 31 - 616 Organised rebuilding |
The laying of foundation and the building of the wall and gates was vital to do really well and quickly. This chapter records the masterly organising of how each section of the wall was made the responsibility of each family. So we built the wall. And all the wall was joined together to half its height, for the people had a mind to work. But not everyone was pleased; The foreign trio were very angry. They plotted to come and fight and cause confusion. So we prayed to our God and set a guard as a protection against them day and night. And Nehemiah said to them: “Do not be afraid of them. Remember the Lord, who is great and awesome, and fight for your brothers, your sons, your daughters, your wives, and your homes.” The foreigners saw that God had frustrated their plan. But we made no foolish presumptions. Those who carried burdens were loaded in such a way that each laboured on the work with one hand and held his weapon with the other. And each of the builders had his sword strapped at his side while he built. During those busy days none of us took off our clothes; each kept his weapon at his right hand. As so often happens, there was a major problem. During this building period many who were poor had little to eat. Nehemiah was angry with the nobles and officials who were extracting interest and the poor had mortgaged their fields and vineyards. Nehemiah shamed the rich and demanded that they release the loans and stopped all usury. The people praised the Lord. Problem solved!
Nehemiah set the example. He ceased to receive the food allowance that was due to being governor, because of the fear of God. |
| Neh 617-19 Letters of intrigue |
Some nobles had dealings with Tobiah who wrote letters trying to frighten Nehemiah. They failed because he trusted God who revealed their deceit. |
| Neh 71-4 Appointments |
Nehemiah appointed gatekeepers to ensure that the gates were opened well after sunrise and shut before dusk. He appointed his brother as governor for he was a more faithful and God-fearing man than many. Because of all the stone used in the wall building there were few houses within the city. |
| Neh 75-73 Genealogy |
The list of Jews returned was the same as in Ezra 2 and totalled just over 43,000. The gifts given to finance the work are also listed. Nehemiah’s task was now to build the nation spiritually Neh 8-10, and then to repopulate the city Neh 11. |
| Neh 8,9 Ezra preaching People confess |
Ezra read from early morning until midday ... and the ears of all the people were attentive to the Book of the Law ... they worshipped the Lord. A number of men and Levites read from the Law of God, clearly, and they gave the sense, so that the people understood the reading. They wept. And Nehemiah said, “This day is holy to the LORD your God; do not mourn or weep ... for the joy of the LORD is your strength.” And he told them to eat and send portions to any who had nothing ready. On the second day they read that the people of Israel should dwell in booths during the 7th month - therefore the reading must have been during the feast of Trumpets, Yom Kippur and Tabernacles, which had not been kept since the days of Joshua. i.e. not during the years of all the judges and kings (~1,000 years). So Israel dwelt in booths for 7 days. On the 8th day they assembled and they made confession and worshipped the LORD their God. You are the LORD, you alone. You have made heaven, ... the earth and all that is on it, the seas and all that is in them; and you preserve all of them; ... You are the LORD, the God who chose Abram ... and made with him the covenant to give to his offspring the land ... you have kept your promise, for you are righteous. ... you saw the affliction of our fathers in Egypt and heard their cry at the Red Sea, and performed signs and wonders against Pharaoh and all his servants ... you divided the sea before them, so that they went through the midst of the sea on dry land ... By a pillar of cloud you led them in the day, and by a pillar of fire in the night ... on Mount Sinai and spoke with them from heaven and gave them the commandments ... You gave them bread from heaven for their hunger and brought water for them out of the rock for their thirst, and you told them to go in to possess the land that you had sworn to give them. But they and our fathers acted presumptuously and stiffened their neck and did not obey your commandments. ... But you are a God ready to forgive, gracious and merciful ... and did not forsake them. ... Forty years you sustained them in the wilderness, and they lacked nothing. ... you gave them kingdoms and peoples and allotted to them every corner. And they captured fortified cities and a rich land. ... Nevertheless, they were disobedient and rebelled against you ... Therefore you gave them into the hand of their enemies ... Yet when they turned and cried to you, you heard from heaven, and many times you delivered them according to your mercies. ... Many years you bore with them and warned them by your Spirit through your prophets. Yet they would not give ear. Therefore you gave them into the hand of the peoples of the lands. ... you have dealt faithfully and we have acted wickedly. ... Because of all this we make a firm covenant in writing. |
| Neh 10 People make a covenant |
That day the people made a solemn covenant with God and have evrey intention of keeping it. But however good it was, history records that as the days became years they were just not able to keep it. It would prove that no education, no legislation and no resolution can save any man. Only new birth by believing and trusting in Jesus Christ crucified and raised as our Redeemer can save a man. There is no other way for forgiveness and salvation. The law is our schoolmaster to lead us to Christ. Gal 324 How true ! This chapter records the names and the obligations of the covenant. The final sentence is: We will not neglect the house of our God. But only Almighty God is faithful and has power to keep his covenant. Today about 50% of Jews have returned to the promised land of Israel, but most still walk in darkness. Soon the Lord will fulfill his promise to save all Israel. Ro 1125-36 They will look upon him whom they have pierced, and mourn for him. In that day they will drink of the opened fountain of Christ that will cleanse and bring true light. Zech 1210 - 131 |
| Neh 11 Who lives in the City? |
The leaders lived in Jerusalem. And from the rest of the people they cast lots for one in ten to live there too. These are listed. Together with villages where the others lived from Beersheba to the valley of Hinnom. |
| Neh 121-26 Levites |
The Levite families are named. |
| Neh 1227-47 Wall dedicated |
All the Levites were invited to celebrate the dedication with thanksgiving and singing. One choir went to the southern part of the wall and the other choir went to the northern part. Their rejoicing was so great that the joy of \Jerusalem was heard far away. Men were appointed over the singing, the storerooms, and as gatekeepers. |
| Neh 13 Final reforms |
In the reading of the Law it was found written that no Ammonite of Moabite should ever enter the assembly of God. But because Eliashib, the priest, was appointed over the chambers of the house of our God, Tobiah, who was related to the priest, was given a large chamber there. Before this happened Nehemiah had to return to the king of Persia. When he returned to Jerusalem he was very angry and threw out all Tobiah’s furniture. (And I expect also Tobiah if he had been there!) Nehemiah also discovered that the portions of the Levites had not been given to them. Tithes were therefore collected and officials were appointed to ensure that the portions were in future paid. He found people treading winepresses on the Sabbath. They were harvesting grain and carrying it into the city on the Sabbath. And Tyrians were selling fish and other goods to the people of Judah on the Sabbath. So Nehemiah confronted the nobles of Judah and commanded the levites to keep the city gates shut on the Sabbath. He also found that some Jews had married foreign women. He reminded them that even the great Solomon had been made to sin by marrying foreign women. Thus I cleansed them from everything foreign, and I established the duties of the priests and Levites. Nehemiah was only absent in Persia for about 6 years. It didn’t take long for the people to forget the covenant they had made. This chapter reveals that this return of the Jews to Jerusalem did not herald the desired restoration of Israel; it would have to wait for the coming of the Messiah in much later years. We still await the day! Scripture reveals that all men are born with a wayward, rebellious, sinful heart. This is a sad and unpopular truth, and proves why Jesus had to first come as our Saviour, Redeemer and Propitiator of our sin.
O the love that drew salvation’s plan, |
Esther [Contents]
This book is always read at the Jewish feast of Purim, about a month before Passover.
In 538BC Cyrus allowed the Jews to return to Judah as prophesied by both Isaiah and Jeremiah. Some 40,000 returned, but probably a majority decided to remain under the Persian rule in Babylon. This story is during the reign of Xerxes (486 to 465 BC) 55 years later and shortly before Ezra and Nehemiah returned to Jerusalem. Although the name of the Lord is not mentioned in this wonderful story, only the hand of God could have conceived and fulfilled it.
Persia ruled all the ME, from India to Egypt, but Greece was beginning to be threatening.
| Esther 11-22 The scene is set |
The young Xerxes (king for just 3 years) held a conference. For a full 180 days he displayed the vast wealth of his kingdom and the splendour and glory of his majesty. Nebuchadnezzar had the same idea, only he made a statue. And God dealt with his arrogance differently (see Dan 3 and 4). Then Xerxes held a 7day banquet! The writer describe it eloquently: Wine was served in goblets of gold, each one different from the other, and the royal wine was abundant. His beautiful wife, queen Vashti, also gave a banquet. But when Xerxes commanded her to come to his banquet and display her beauty, she refused. To insult the king in front of all the dignitaries and Generals was both wise and costly. She was immediately sacked and not allowed to ever enter the presence of the king. The nobles foolishly thought that this would ensure that “all the women will respect their husbands, from the least to the greatest.” |
| Esther 21-18 Enter Esther |
After a while Xerxes missed Vashti, so it was suggested that a beauty contest be held throughout Persia to find a suitable virgin replacement. Now there was in the citadel of Susa a Jew ... named Mordecai ... who had an orphaned cousin that he had brought up. (This was a typical God planned happening; not chance) This girl, who was also known as Esther, was lovely in form and features. She was one of many who were taken to the king’s palace. She found favour with the king’s eunuch who assigned her 7 maids and a year’s beauty treatment. When she went into the king he was attracted to Esther more than to any of the other women. And so she became queen. It was now the 7th year of his reign. Sometimes God’s plan is immediate, but often patience is required. Like Moses, who had 40 years of preparation as a shepherd under Jethro in Midian |
| Esther 219-28 Wisdom of Mordecai |
Mordecai had told Esther not to reveal her Jewish heritage; so she didn’t. Every day Mordecai would sit at the king’s gate to check that all was well with his ‘daughter’. One day he found out that two of the king’s officers were conspiring to assassinate the king. He told Esther who told the king what Mordecai had found out. The officers were hung and the facts recorded. This is a gripping story that you cannot ‘put down’. |
| Esther 31-15 Haman offended and plans murder |
5 years went by. Not told why, but for some reason Xerses honoured the Agagite (Amalekite 1 Sam 158) Haman. As often happens it went to his head. He expected everyone to kneel down before him at the king’s gate. Everyone did; except Mordecai because he was a Jew. And Jews only kneel before the Lord God. Haman was enraged, not only with Mordecai, but all Jews. Who put this into his mind I wonder? Then Haman said to King Xerxes, “There is a certain people dispersed and scattered among the peoples in all the provinces of your kingdom whose customs are different from those of all other people and who do not obey the king’s laws; it is not in the king’s best interest to tolerate them.” Then he asks for a decree to destroy the ‘disobedient Jews’ and promised 10,000 talents of silver to pay for it. Xerxes agreed and even told him to keep the money “and do with the people as you please.” The signed and sealed edict was sent out to all the province. The king and Haman sat down to drink, but the city of Susa was bewildered. c.f. plot in Dan 6 |
| Esther 41-17 Mordecai in sackcloth Esther agrees a brave plan |
Mordecai put on sackcloth and ashes, and went out into the city, wailing loudly and bitterly. ... In every province ... there was great mourning among the Jews. God heard their cry and so did Esther. Mordecai sent her a copy of the edict, told her of Haman’s money offer and told her to ask the king for mercy. He also warned her, “Do not think that because you are in the king’s house you alone of all the Jews will escape. For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father’s family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to royal position for such a time as this?” Esther agrees saying, “Gather together all the Jews ... fast for me ... 3 days ... then I will go to the king ... If I perish, I perish.” |
| Esther 51-14 Esther plans request |
On the third day Esther put on royal robes and stood in the entrance of the king’s hall. He welcomed her. She asked that he and Hamon should dine with her next day. King agreed and no doubt his curiosity was raised. Hamon was thrilled to be asked by the King and Queen - until he saw Mordecai sitting by the gate. His wife and friends suggest he build a gallows for Mordecai. Esther was beautiful and tense. She had yet to make her main request. |
| Esther 61-14 The tables begin to turn |
That night the king could not sleep. Was it just curiosity or was it God? Ordered history books to read. And it just happened he read about Mordecai revealing the assassination plot and asked if he been rewarded? This was no more an accident that Jesus being given the scroll of Isaiah 61 in the Nazareth synagogue!. And it just happened that Haman had just entered the outer court. So Xerxes asked him, “What shall be done for the man the king delights to honour?” Haman told him how he would like to be honoured, thinking it was he. But it was Mordecai whom the king planned to honour. And Haman had to put a royal robe upon Mordecai and lead him round the city on the king’s horse. What a climb-down. As Jesus taught, “Everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.” Lu 1411 |
| Esther 71-10 Esther’s banquet |
Persian banquets are not just a two hour meal. On the 2nd day the king asks Esther what her request was. You can almost hear the background drums beating, at last the climax had arrived. Queen Esther answered, “If I have found favour with you, O king, and if it pleases your majesty, grant me my life – this is my petition. And spare my people – this is my request. For I and my people have been sold for destruction and slaughter and annihilation. (This is not the first, or the last time Satan has tried to destroy the Jews). When asked who is was that dared to do such a thing, Esther said, “The adversary and enemy is this vile Haman.” Chaos! The king went out into the garden. Haman terrified, pleads with Esther for his life. The king returns and thinks he is molesting his wife. Haman’s fate is sealed. Xerxes is told of the 75ft gallows in Haman’s garden. Without sniff of hesitation, The king said, “Hang him on it!” And he was. Whoever digs a pit will fall into it, and a stone will come back on him who starts it rolling. Prov 2627 This is not the end of the story. God’s planned end is even better. |
| Esther 81-17 More reversals 91 - 103 |
1. The ring Xerxes gave to Haman was given to Mordecai. Also Gen 4142 2. Mordecai was given all Haman’s property. 3. All Haman’s letters demanding execution of the Jews were revoked and the enemies of the Jews be destroyed. Ten sons of Haman also hung. 4. In every province where there had been great mourning among the Jews, they now had light, and gladness and joy and honour. This God-planned feast of Purim is rightly celebrated in every generation. |
Job [Contents]
The book was probably written post flood and pre Abraham; and not by Job. It’s primary focus is upon the suffering of men (especially the righteous) and the consistent authority of Almighty God. It also reveals that Satan delights in man’s suffering and takes any opportunity he can to dishonour God. It conclusively proves that wealth does not indicate that a man is righteous, nor does poverty prove that a man is wicked. There are many martyrs in heaven wearing crowns; and many who were once rich, but are now in torment who had to leave all their privilege on earth.
| Job 11-5 Job, the man |
Job was blameless and upright, one who feared God and turned away from evil. He had 7 sons and 3 daughters, a very large farm and many servants. When his sons and daughters had a party (which lasted several days), Job would rise early and offer burnt offerings to God saying, “It may be that my children have sinned and cursed God in their hearts.” |
| Job 16-22 The test |
We are given a view ‘behind the scenes’, in the heavenly realm. Did God reveal it to Job, and Job tell the writer? We cannot know. There came a day when The LORD said to Satan, “From where have you come?” Satan said he had been going to and fro, walking up and down. But he did not add that he was seeking anyone that he could destroy. The LORD said to Satan, “Have you considered my servant Job? He is righteous and you have not been able to destroy him. Satan answered the LORD and said, “Does Job fear God for no reason? Job only honours you because you protect what he has, because you have made him so prosperous. If you take away his possessions he will curse you. But God knew that was not true. Job loved God because he was the loving Creator. And God would reveal to Satan how wrong he was. And the LORD said to Satan, “Behold, all that he has is in your hand. Only against him do not stretch out your hand.” So Satan went off to do his worst.
The opportunity came when the Sabeans were sent to attack the oxen that were ploughing, and kill all the donkeys. Then fire came down and killed all the sheep and Job’s servants. And on the same day the Chaldeans were sent and took all the camels and killed the servants that were looking after them. And finally a great storm fell upon Job’s children who were having a party; the house fell and all were killed. |
| Job 21-10 A second attack |
Again there was a day when ... the LORD said to Satan, “From where have you come?” Satan gave the same answer as he did before. He had been on the prowl like a lion seeking whom he could destroy. 1 Pe 58 And the LORD said to Satan, “Have you considered my servant Job? ... He still holds fast his integrity, although you incited me against him to destroy him without reason.” Satan had no excuse for failure; he just asked for a 2nd go at Job. “Stretch out your hand and touch his bone and his flesh, and he will curse you to your face.” And the LORD said to Satan, “Behold, he is in your hand; only spare his life.” Satan went out and struck Job with painful sores all over his body. He even enticed his wife to say, “Do you still hold fast your integrity? Curse God and die.” But Job replied, “You speak as one of the foolish women would speak. Shall we receive good from God, and shall we not receive evil?” So Satan failed round two; as Almighty God knew he would. |
| Job 211-13 Enter 3 friends |
Job had 3 friends who came and when they saw him, they did not recognize him. ... and they wept. ... They sat with him on the ground seven days and seven nights, and no one spoke a word to him, for they saw that his suffering was very great. The next 35 chapters recount how they tried so hard to help their friend. But each attempt would fail. We will follow the long trail and learn what we can. But the conclusion will be that only God has the right answer. God is totally faithful and always remains the compassionate Master of his creation. |
| Job 3 Job laments his birth |
His suffering was so intense that he wished he had never been born. Why was I not as a hidden stillborn child? Why is light given to him who is in misery? For the thing that I fear comes upon me. |
| Job 4,5 Eliphaz answers |
Remember: who that was innocent ever perished? The world operates on the principle of ‘cause and effect’; everything happens for a reason. Suffering is only because of sin.
Behold, blessed is the one whom God reproves; |
| Job 6,7 Job answers |
Yes, my suffering is from God - The arrows of the Almighty are in me - But Oh that I might have my request ... that it would please God to crush me. This would be the end of my suffering. But God had a better goal for Job. But Job does not see it yet. He continues: I loathe my life; I would not live forever. ... Why have you made me your mark? |
| Job 8 Bildad speaks |
If you are pure and upright, surely then he will rouse himself for you. He insists that Job’s suffering is because of sin. Behold, God will not reject a blameless man. |
| Job 9,10 Job replies |
Job knew that he could not win any argument with Almighty God. How can a man be in the right before God? ... who alone stretched out the heavens. Behold, he passes by me, and I see him not. If that is God’s choice, who am I to change it? If it is a contest of strength, behold, he is mighty! He destroys both the blameless and the wicked. I will say to God, Do not condemn me; let me know why you contend against me. But if God remain silent, then I say again: Would that I had died before any eye had seen me. |
| Job 11 Zophar speaks |
You say, ‘My doctrine is pure, and I am clean in God's eyes.’ But oh, that God would speak and open his lips to you. Then you would acknowledge your sin as the cause of your distress. All Job’s friends seem to be obsessed with this idea. But at the beginning God declared, “In all this Job did not sin with his lips.” |
| Job 12-14 Job replies |
I have understanding as well as you ... With God are wisdom and might; If he tears down, none can rebuild ... He makes nations great, and he destroys them. He takes away understanding from the chiefs of the people. And that includes Job’s friends! As for you ... worthless physicians ... Will you speak falsely for God? How many are my iniquities and my sins? Man who is born of a woman is few of days and full of trouble. He feels only the pain of his own body. |
| Job 15 Eliphaz accuses |
You are doing away with the fear of God ... Have you listened in the council of God? And do you limit wisdom to yourself? What is man, that he can be pure? The wicked man writhes in pain all his days ... Because he has stretched out his hand against God. Yet again his friends insist that this calamity is because Job sinned. |
| Job 16,17 Job replies |
My face is red with weeping, and on my eyelids is deep darkness, although there is no violence in my hands, and my prayer is pure. Even now, behold, my witness is in heaven, and he who testifies for me is on high. Indeed so. Jesus is our Advocate. Only he can declare a man’s innocence; not because he is without sin, but because his guilt is covered, paid for in full. But for Job at that moment there was none to plead his case on earth. In truth Job cries: “My friends scorn me; my eye pours out tears to God.” |
| Job 18 Bildad speaks |
Why are we stupid in your sight? He continues the attack with false logic. He says correctly that God punishes the wicked. But then he continues the falsehood that Job’s distress is God’s punishment And that punishment is because of his sin and no other reason. He is thrust from light into darkness ... Surely such are the dwellings of the unrighteous, such is the place of him who knows not God. |
| Job 19 Job speaks the truth |
First he aks them, “How long will you torment me?” All my intimate friends abhor me. Have mercy on me, have mercy on me, O you my friends. Then Job declares the glorious truth: For I know that my Redeemer lives, and at the last he will stand upon the earth. And after my skin has been thus destroyed, yet in my flesh I shall see God. Habakkuk declares this same truth at the end of his prophecy: Though the fig tree should not blossom, nor fruit be on the vines, ... yet I will rejoice in the LORD; I will take joy in the God of my salvation. Hab 317,18 |
| Job 20 Zophar ridicules Job |
Do you not know this from of old ... that the exulting of the wicked is short, he will perish forever like his own dung. God will send his burning anger against him. The possessions of his house will be carried away, dragged off in the day of God's wrath. |
| Job 21 Job’s answer |
Bear with me, and I will speak, and after I have spoken, mock on. Job asks that the witness of history be considered. Why do the wicked live, reach old age, and grow mighty in power? They spend their days in prosperity ... They say to God, Depart from us! One dies in his full vigour, being wholly at ease and secure. Another dies in bitterness of soul, never having tasted of prosperity. Jesus may well have used these words when he taught about Lazarus. Lu 1619-31 |
| Job 22 Eliphaz false witness |
Job’s friends were nothing if not persistent and persistently wrong! Eliphaz gives vague false witness to Job’s sins. Is not your evil abundant? There is no end to your iniquities. You have exacted pledges of your brothers for nothing. and stripped the naked of their clothing. You have given no water to the weary to drink, and you have withheld bread from the hungry. You have sent widows away empty, and the arms of the fatherless were crushed. ... If you return to the Almighty you will be built up. |
| Job 23,24 Job replies |
Oh, that I knew where I might find him (God) ... Behold, I go forward, but he is not there, (and not found backwards, left or right) But he knows the way that I take; when he has tried me, I shall come out as gold. He will complete what he appoints for me. |
| Job 25 Bildad speaks |
How then can man be in the right before God? How can he who is born of woman be pure?
David asked, and answered this question: |
| Job 26-28 Job replies |
Job does not answer the question, but recounts the majesty and greatness of God. Finally he asks: But where shall wisdom be found? And answers: Behold, the fear of the Lord, that is wisdom, and to turn away from evil is understanding. |
| Job 29,30 Job compares |
Job remembers with longing his life before: Oh, that I were as in the months of old, as in the days when God watched over me. I put on righteousness, and it clothed me. and compares it with life after: But now they laugh at me ... And now they abhor me ... because God has loosed my cord and humbled me ... And now days of affliction have taken hold of me. I cry to you for help and you do not answer me. |
| Job 31 Job’s conclusion |
If I have walked with falsehood ... If my heart has been enticed toward a woman ... If I have withheld anything that the poor desired ... If I have raised my hand against the fatherless ... If I have made gold my trust ... Then let thorns grow instead of wheat, and foul weeds instead of barley. And I get what I deserve. Job obviously thought he had done none of these things. So he was left with the question, WHY has God afflicted me? |
| Job 32-37 Elihu’s long rebuke |
Elihu was younger than the three friends, so he had remained silent. When it was clear that their argument had come to nothing he also rebuked Job! Behold, in this you are not right. And proceeds to tell why he is wrong. 1. If there be for him an angel, a mediator ... and he is merciful to him then man prays to God, and he accepts him. But this has not happened to Job; so he must be wrong. 2. Job has said, ‘I am in the right, ... in spite of my right I am counted a liar. So in effect he has said, ‘It profits a man nothing that he should take delight in God.’ And this is clearly not correct. Of a truth, God will not do wickedly, and the Almighty will not pervert justice. Justice = Righteousness leads to prosperity and wickedness to distress. Therefore Elihu says Job cannot be righteous. 3. Job speaks without knowledge ... For he adds rebellion to his sin. 4. Behold, God is mighty ... he is mighty in strength of understanding. He does not withdraw his eyes from the righteous. He opens their ears to instruction If they listen and serve him, they complete their days in prosperity. But Elihu did not realise that God had NOT withdrawn his eyes from Job. Jesus warned his disciples that in this world you will have trouble. Jn 1633 5. God thunders wondrously with his voice; he does great things that we cannot comprehend. Hear this, O Job; stop and consider the wondrous works of God. He does not regard any who are wise in their own conceit. In this case, who was wise, Elihu or Job?
Today the iniquitous ‘prosperity gospel’ too often implies that if a man is righteous, he can also expect to be rich. |
| Job 38 - 405 The Lord answers Job (1) |
At last ! The Lord answers Job. He reveals wisdom and truth by asking him questions. So different from the ‘friends’ who only tried to prove Job was wrong. The Lord asks, “Where were you when I laid the foundation of the earth?” Who determined its measurements? (And designed every detail) Who laid its cornerstone, when the morning stars sang together?
Have you commanded the morning since your days began? (Earth’s orbit and spin) |
| Job 406 - 426 The Lord answers Job (2) |
“Dress for action like a man; I will question you, and you make it known to me.” Behold, Behemoth, which I made as I made you ... Can one take him by his eyes, or pierce his nose with a snare? Behold, the hope of a man is false. (Without God, man’s hopes are but a dream.) Then Job answered the LORD and said: “I know that you can do all things, and that no purpose of yours can be thwarted. I had heard of you by the hearing of the ear, but now my eye sees you; therefore I despise myself, and repent in dust and ashes. |
| Job 427-9 The Lord rebukes the friends of Job |
My anger burns against you ... for you have not spoken of me what is right, as my servant Job has. God then instructs them to go to Job and make an offering for yourselves. They did so. And the LORD accepted Job's prayer for them. |
| Job 4210-17 The Lord restores Job |
And the LORD restored the fortunes of Job, when he had prayed for his friends. And the LORD gave Job (exactly) twice as much as he had before. And the LORD blessed the latter days of Job more than his beginning. He had 14,000 sheep, 6,000 camels, 1,000 yoke of oxen, and 1,000 female donkeys. He lived a further 140 years and had 7 more sons and 3 daughters. |
Psalms [Contents]
79 of the 150 psalms were written by David; the other 71 by a Levitical choir (Sons of Korah, Asaph) and others.
They are all written in Hebrew poetry which does not rhyme like English poetry, but repeats or contrasts ideas.
Psalm 1
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.
He is like a tree planted by streams of water
that yields its fruit in its season, and whose leaf does not wither.
Not so the wicked!
They are like chaff that the wind blows away.
Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment,
nor sinners in the assembly of the righteous.
For the Lord watches over the way of the righteous,
but the way of he wicked shall perish.
The last verse sums up this straight-forward psalm.
Currently on earth the wicked often seem to prosper. But their prosperity will completely disappear in eternity.
Ps 733 I saw the prosperity of the wicked.
c.f. Ps 7317 till I entered the sanctuary of God; then I understood their final destiny.
Whatever man does, however wicked he becomes, the Lord God will always retain control of his creation.
In the end his righteous kingdom will be established, and all man's evil empires will be blown away. Dan 234,35,44,4
Psalm 2
Why do the nations conspire ... against the Lord? ... the Lord scoffs at them.
The psalmist does not answer the question, but reveals the plan of Almighty God.
He will send his Son and will make the nations his inheritance and he will rule them with an iron sceptre.
Therefore, you kings, be wise; be warned, you rulers of the earth.
Serve the Lord with fear and rejoice with trembling.
Only a fool would ignore such truth. 'Rejoicing' is popular; but 'trembling' is far less so!
But the Word of God reveals that the world will become ever more foolish. Rev 6-19
Leaders and people will choose to conspire not only against each other, but against the Lord.
And will pay a high price for their folly.
Psalm 3
In this first psalm of David, his son Absalom had rebelled, and it seemed as if all the world was against him.
"O Lord, how many are my foes ... ?"
But David did not despair; he turned to his faithful Lord.
"But you are a shield around me, O Lord ... From the Lord comes deliverance."
David's desire was not selfish, just for himself.
He also cried, "May your blessing be on your people."
2 Sam 18,19 tells the story of Absalom's end, and how David mourned for him.
Psalm 4
Some psalms are personal prayers, some public praise, some a public statement, most (like this) are all three.
David often feels distressed and seems to have many enemies.
Here they are trying to shame their king and they are also deluded by seeking gain by worshipping foreign gods.
So he pleads O my righteous God. Give me relief from my distress;
and knowing he does not deserve it, be merciful to me and hear my prayer.
Experience has taught him that the Lord will hear when I call to him.
He prays that his enemies will not sin ... offer right sacrifices and trust in the Lord.
Finally in gratitude he declares, "You have filled my heart with greater joy ...
for you alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety."
All distress has melted away.
Psalm 5
One of many psalms where David pleads with God for help. But why should God help?
You are not a God who takes pleasure in evil; with you the wicked cannot dwell.
The arrogant cannot stand in your presence; you hate all who do wrong.
He lists their wrongdoings: lies, deceit, intrigues, destruction, rebellion against God.
But I, by your great mercy, will come into your house.
David did not claim he deserved God's help - it was only by his mercy.
Experience had taught him that all who take refuge in God will be glad,
Spreads your protection over them.
For surely, O Lord, you bless the righteous;
you surround them with your favour as with a shield.
Such is the grace and kindness of our Redeemer.
Psalm 6
Many of the psalms David wrote concern his many enemies; far more numerous than his friends. Hated by his brothers, his political rivals, Saul, evil men and foreigners. He knew well the love and mercy of Almighty God, but his life seemed to be one long fight - at which he soon learned to excel. He often cried.
Be merciful to me, Lord ... My soul is in anguish. How long, O Lord, how long? ... I am worn out from groaning ...
God was not deaf to his cries. At such times he learned the faithfulness and comfort of the Almighty.
The Lord has heard my cry for mercy; ... All my enemies will be ashamed and dismayed ...
In all his many battles, he learned to be confident in the Lord.
Psalm 7
Cush, a Benjamite, was probably a supporter of Saul, and this psalm was written when Saul was chasing David.
David's enemies were real. O Lord my God, I take refuge in you; save and deliver me from all who pursue me. ...
Arise, O Lord, in your anger; rise up against the rage of my enemies. ...
O righteous God, who searches minds and hearts, bring to an end the violence of the wicked
and make the righteous secure.
Having made his request to Almighty God; David felt secure and protected. He was! And he expressed his gratitude.
I will give thanks to the Lord because of his righteousness
and will sing praise to the name of the Lord Most High.
Psalm 8
As a shepherd and then as a fugitive from Saul, David would often ponder the night sky, and marvel.
O Lord, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth! ...
When I consider your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place,
what is man that you are mindful of him, the son of man that you care for him?
Today men have replaced creation by God with the Evolution Theory lie, and have ceased to marvel.
David was a wiser man - he worshipped God. He also recognised the responsibility given to man for all creation.
You made him ruler over the works of your hands.
Psalm 9
David is determined that the Lord God is for ever given thanks and glory.
I will praise you, O Lord, with all my heart; I will tell of all your wonders.
Why?
You have rebuked the nations and destroyed the wicked; you have blotted out their name for ever and ever. ...
The Lord reigns forever; he has established his throne for judgment.
He will judge the world in righteousness; he will govern the peoples with justice.
The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble.
Those who know your name will trust in you, for you, Lord, have never forsaken those who seek you.
David rejoices in God's victory over wickedness.
The nations have fallen into the pit they have dug; their feet are caught in the net they have hidden. ...
The wicked return to the grave, all the nations that forget God.
And his gratitude for the eternal grace of God upon him knows no bounds.
But the needy will not always be forgotten, nor the hope of the afflicted ever perish.
The trials that the righteous now face will soon end.
Psalm 10
David's roller-coaster life continues.
Why, O Lord, do you stand far off? Why do you hide yourself in times of trouble?
In his arrogance the wicked man
hunts down the weak ...
boasts of the cravings of his heart ...
blesses the greedy and reviles the Lord ...
His ways are always prosperous ...
your laws are far from him ...
he sneers at all his enemies
His victims are crushed.
Or so it seems.
David has but one recourse:
Arise, Lord! Lift up your hand, O God. Do not forget the helpless. ...
As so often, the psalm ends on a note of faith and truth.
The Lord is King for ever and ever; the nations will perish from his land.
You hear, O Lord, the desire of the afflicted; you encourage them, and you listen to their cry ...
Psalm 11
In the Lord I take refuge.
David learned from an early age that he had to fight his enemies to achieve justice, in his family and with Saul.
Jesus also had to fight a continuous spiritual battle against his many enemies
A day will come when the wicked bend their bows no more.
A day when on the wicked he will rain fiery coals and burning sulphur.
For the Lord is righteous, he loves justice.
But until that day we have to learn to wear and use well the whole armour of God. (Eph 6)
Psalm 12
David felt very alone, especially early in his life. Surrounded by lies and deceit, he longed for honesty and truth.
Help, Lord, for the godly are no more; the faithful have vanished from among men.
Everyone lies to his neighbour; their flattering lips speak with deception.
His one delight and encouragement was that
The words of the Lord are flawless,
like silver refined in a furnace of clay, purified seven times.
In today's overflow of information, we need the accurate discernment of the Holy Spirit
and his revelation of all the Word of God.
Psalm 13
David again feels alone, enemies surround him and even God seems remote.
How long, O Lord? Will you forget me forever? How long will you hide your face from me?
But God proves that the feelings of his friend, although raw honesty, are not the truth.
The Spirit of the Lord keeps his promise and reveals what no psychologist can induce:
But I trust in your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in your salvation.
I will sing to the Lord, for he has been good to me.
It is a miracle of grace how the first and last verse can come from the same heart.
Psalm 14
David looks around him and sees only fools who are totally careless of Almighty God.
He has learned that God sees far more and that no man is naturally good, all are born evil.
The fool says in his heart, "There is no God." ...
The Lord looks down from heaven ... there is no one who does good, not even one.
He longs for, and sees, the day when Israel will be righteous.
Oh, that salvation for Israel would come out of Zion!
When the Lord restores the fortunes of his people ...
As Abraham looked and saw the day of Jesus Christ and was glad (Jn 856)
so David saw the day revealed to Zechariah when Israel would look upon him whom they had pierced and mourn.
The day when the fountain would be opened and they would all be cleansed. (Zech 1210-132)
Psalm 15
David realises the holiness of Almighty God. His relationship is not careless or presumptuous.
Lord, who may dwell in your sanctuary? Who may live on your holy hill? (Also Ps 24)
He whose walk is blameless ...
who speaks the truth from his heart ...
who does his neighbour no wrong ...
who honours those who fear the Lord, ...
who keeps his oath even when it hurts, ...
who lends his money without usury ...
But that would mean no one could enter heaven !
This truth shows why the Cross is so essential.
Other psalms reveal how God's righteousness is given to those who are forgiven. e.g. Ps 32, 53, 103
Psalm 16
David gladly acknowledged his exceptional intellect and physical ability came from the Lord,
and that he always needed the Lord God's provision, protection and wisdom.
Keep me safe, O God, for in you I take refuge. ... Apart from you I have no good thing. ...
Lord, you have assigned me my portion ... The boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places. ...
I will praise the Lord, who counsels me ... You have made known to me the path of life.
you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand.
His principal blessing was the eternal presence of Almighty God,
not earthly prosperity, popularity, pleasure or power.
Psalm 17
This psalm begins with David claiming innocence, that his righteous plea ... did not rise from deceitful lips.
He claimed, I have kept myself from the ways of the violent. ... my feet have not slipped.
But was this true in practice, even if it was his desired intent?
He sought vindication from God; knowing he would not receive it from men.
He pleaded with God: Keep me as the apple of your eye; hide me in the shadow of your wings.
It was probably written during the 13 years that Saul hunted for him, for he cries:
My mortal enemies who surround me ... They have tracked me down, they now surround me ...
Rescue me from the wicked by your sword. ...
You still the hunger of those you cherish.
His theology may be in part mistaken;
but not his yearning for his Lord or his trust in God, his Saviour. (See next psalm)
Psalm 18
There is no shortage of reasons why David declared his love for the Lord:
The Lord is my rock,
my fortress and my deliverer ...
my refuge ...
my shield,
the horn of my salvation,
my stronghold.
I am saved from my enemies.
The cords of death entangled me ...
I cried to my God for help. From his temple he heard my voice. ...
He shot his arrows and scattered the enemies ...
He rescued me because he delighted in me.
The Lord has rewarded me according to my righteousness.
But how did he become righteous?
It was not by his own endeavour, but by the grace and mercy of the Lord to whom he cried.
As for God, his way is perfect; the word of the Lord is flawless.
He is a shield for all who take refuge in him.
It is God who arms me with strength and makes my way perfect. ... He trains my hands for battle. ...
Exalted be God my Saviour!
And not only does God show his favour to David,
but to all whose names are written in the Book of Life.
He shows unfailing kindness to his anointed, to David and his descendants forever.
Psalm 19
As a shepherd and then as a fugitive, David spent much time awake at night, alert.
He saw with clarity all the stars; and wondered at their beauty and their creation by the Lord God.
He was not deceived by the lies so commonly promulgated today by the Evolution Theory. He knew the truth:
The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands.
There is no speech or language where their voice is not heard.
Seeing the visible glory of God Our Creator entitles him to tell us the right principles of life and his commandments.
These reveal what is best for us and most pleasing to him.
But men now reject God's creation and see commandments as being restrictive and forbidding his happiness.
Proud, rebellious men prefer wickedness, are blind - and are wrong!
David reveals 9 'Laws' and then what each one achieves.
The law of the Lord is perfect,
reviving the soul.
The statutes of the Lord are trustworthy,
making wise the simple.
The precepts of the Lord are right,
giving joy to the heart.
The commands of the Lord are radiant,
giving light to the eyes.
The fear of the Lord is pure,
enduring forever.
The ordinances of the Lord are sure
and altogether righteous.
They are more precious than gold,
than much pure gold;
They are sweeter than honey,
than honey from the comb.
By them is your servant warned;
in keeping them there is great reward.
When you examine what each of God's statutes achieves,
you might think that all the world would naturally want to follow them.
But we don't.
So it is little wonder that there is a world-wide scarcity of godly wisdom, revelation and righteousness.
David asks, how else can a man discern his errors and have his wilful sins forgiven?
He prays:
May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight,
O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer.
He had learned that all of his imperfections needed to be 'redeemed', in order to be forgiven.
Psalm 20
May the Lord answer you in the day of trouble; may the name of the God of Jacob defend you.
This was David's prayer for the Chief Musician.
So when the Lord answers it, We will rejoice in your salvation.
And in a wise conclusion he declares:
Some trust in chariots, and some in horses; but we will remember the name of the Lord our God.
Psalm 21
This psalm tells us that David was not the only one who used music to calm the troubled Saul.
The king shall have joy in Your strength, O Lord; and in Your salvation how greatly shall he rejoice! ...
For the king trusts in the Lord, and through the mercy of the Most High he shall not be moved.
But in this, David was mistaken. Saul became disobedient to the Lord and did not trust him:
He refused to kill Agag, the Amalekite (1 Sam 15)
He kills the priests of Nod (1 Sam 22)
He consulted the witch of Endor. (1 Sam 28)
And for many years he sought to kill David, whom the Lord had anointed. (1 Sam 16, 18-26).
However, David always wanted the best for Saul.
Psalm 22
David may have been groaning at the height of his battle to escape from Saul's threats;
but the Holy Spirit revealed to him with great accuracy the future agony of Christ upon the Cross.
My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? (and Mk 1534)
When Jesus took all our sin upon himself it separated him from his Father.
O my God, I cry out by day, but you do not answer.
During this time Jesus could no longer hear his Father. What fellowship has light with darkness?
He was despised by the people. All who see me mock me; they hurl insults, shaking their heads ...
The crowd cried "Crucify him!" The Scribes and Pharisees and onlookers mocked and insulted him. (Mk 1529-32)
There is no one to help.
At his mock trial and on the Cross, Jesus was alone, there was no one to help.
Only the perfect Son of God could redeem us.
I am poured out like water, and all my bones are out of joint. ... My strength is dried up like a potsherd.
Jesus gave his all. Crucifixion is designed to be an agonising death.
My tongue sticks to the roof of my mouth.
On the cross Jesus cried, "I am thirsty." (Jn 1928)
For he has not despised or disdained the suffering of the afflicted one.
On the third day, Jesus rose from the dead, Victorious! The master plan for our salvation fulfilled.
They will proclaim his righteousness to a people yet unborn – for he has done it.
'It is finished!' was his cry, Alleluia, what a Saviour. (Jn 1930)
Psalm 23
Much of David's youth was spent away from home, alone with his sheep that he learned to love.
He was a good shepherd and often risked his life to protect them.
But who was shepherd to David? This psalm answers this question beautifully.
The Lord is my shepherd,
He makes me lie down in green pastures,
he leads me beside quiet waters,
he restores my soul.
He guides me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake.
Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me ...
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life;
And I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.
This testimony proves that there can be no better Shepherd.
While David risked his life, Jesus laid down his life for his sheep;
and thereby he opened the kingdom of heaven to all believers. (Jn 1011-18)
Psalm 24
The earth is the Lord's, and all its fullness, ... For He has founded it upon the seas ...
The current denial of these two truths (ownership based upon creation)
God removes his protection, so there is much wickedness. (See Ro 1)
If God did not create this world (Evolution Theory lie),
then man is quite safe to reject him and the Bible is a big hoax.
But the Bible is the Word of God and opens with
In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. Gen 11
And John's gospel starts with the great truth:
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through Him,
and without Him nothing was made that was made. Jn 11
So the big question that the psalmist asks is:
Who may ascend into the hill of the Lord?
Or who may stand in His holy place?
And the answer simple - but impossible !
He who has clean hands and a pure heart.
It is impossible because no man has ever lived who has achieved this.
The direct answer to this dilemma is not given here;
however the result of God's intervention is
He shall receive blessing from the Lord,
And righteousness from the God of his salvation.
This is Jacob, the generation of those who seek Him ... (NKJV)
By calling upon the Lord and seeking him,
he reveals that he sent his Son to redeem, forgive
and give us 'new birth', a clean heart.
David reveals that this salvation is only possible because
The Lord strong and mighty, the Lord mighty in battle.
Jesus Christ wins the battle against Satan and sin and thus opens the everlasting doors.
He is rightly called The Lord of hosts, the King of glory.
He alone enables a man to ascend the hill of the Lord.
Psalm 25
Many psalms relate to a specific event, this seems to reflect David's general daily need for God.
The longing of his lonely soul for the living God.
To you, O Lord, I lift up my soul; in you I trust, O my God.
Teach me your paths; guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Saviour,
My hope is in you all day long.
Remember, O Lord, your great mercy and love. ... Remember not the sins of my youth.
His desire was not for wealth or power, not for popularity or ease;
He wanted the name of the Lord, his God to be honoured.
So he prayed: For the sake of your name, O Lord, forgive my iniquity, though it is great. ...
Look upon my affliction and my distress and take away all my sins.
He wanted to know the wisdom and the plan of God - not that of devious men.
The Lord confides in those who fear him; he makes his covenant known to them.
He yearned to know and follow the covenant of Moses - the Law
and also the covenant promise to Abraham - life with God and gift of land.
So that all the world may see the goodness and greatness of Almighty God.
Redeem Israel, O God, from all their troubles!
Then men will see the righteousness, justice and truth of the kingdom of God.
Psalm 26
Vindicate me, O Lord, for I have led a blameless life;
I have trusted in the Lord without wavering.
To feel vindicated is a common desire expressed by David.
It is true that he trusted in the Lord; but that does not mean his life was blameless.
He then lists all his good points, hoping to show that since he was definitely on God's side,
that God will also be on his side.
Yet at the end he does also plead: Redeem me and be merciful to me.
Psalm 27
David often saw his many enemies advancing; so at such times he rehearses the abiding truth:
The Lord is my light and my salvation – whom shall I fear? ...
though war break out against me, even then will I be confident.
He is determined to fight, and fight well because God was with him.
When facing Goliath, he declared:
"You come against me with sword and spear and javelin, but I come against you in the name of the Lord Almighty, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied. This day the Lord will hand you over to me, and I'll strike you down and cut off your head. Today ... the whole world will know that there is a God in Israel." (1 Sam 1745,46)
And that is exactly what happened. David's confidence in God was proven to be well placed.
But victory over his enemies was not all he wanted
He realised that home-life in this world was denied to him, so he sought a better home-life with God.
One thing I ask of the Lord, this is what I seek:
that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life. ...
Do not reject me or forsake me, O God my Saviour.
Though my father and mother forsake me, the Lord will receive me. ...
I am still confident of this: I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living.
And finally he realised that this confidence also required patience.
In his wisdom, God does not always gives us all that we ask immediately.
Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord.
Abraham was gladdened when he 'saw the day of Jesus Christ' (Jn 856)
but it would be 2,000 years before the Son of God came to redeem his world;
and at least a further 2,000 years before he will come again to establish his righteous kingdom!
In this 'Me, Now!' world such patience is rare, and all the more precious.
Psalm 28
Once more, David saw realistically that his wicked enemies threatened him. This is his response:
To you I call, O Lord my Rock; do not turn a deaf ear to me. ...
Hear my cry for mercy as I call to you for help.
Do not drag me away with the wicked, with those who do evil ... Repay them for their deeds.
Clearly in this psalm the Lord fulfills his request; the wicked do not triumph.
Praise be to the Lord, for he has heard my cry for mercy.
The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and I am helped.
My heart leaps for joy and I will give thanks to him in song.
The Lord is the strength of his people, a fortress of salvation for his anointed one.
Save your people and bless your inheritance; be their shepherd and carry them forever.
We are also invited to share his thankfulness - and encouraged to pray for Israel.
Psalm 29
The first two verses state the fact, the command incumbent upon all men:
Ascribe to the Lord, O mighty ones, ascribe to the Lord glory and strength.
Ascribe to the Lord the glory due his name; worship the Lord in the splendour of his holiness.
The remainder gives us the reasons why:
The Lord thunders over the mighty waters ...
The voice of the Lord breaks the cedars ...
The voice of the Lord strikes with flashes of lightning ...
The Lord sits enthroned over the flood;
The Lord is enthroned as King forever.
The Lord gives strength to his people;
The Lord blesses his people with peace.
Psalm 30
Even with all David's ability, he never hesitated to seek God for help and to thank God in all his battles.
He remained a humble, grateful, trusting realist.
I will exalt you, O Lord, for you lifted me out of the depths and did not let my enemies gloat over me.
O Lord my God, I called to you for help and you healed me. ...
To you, O Lord, I called; to the Lord I cried for mercy:
Weeping may remain for a night, but rejoicing comes in the morning. ...
You turned my wailing into dancing; ...
O Lord my God, I will give you thanks forever.
Psalm 31
David's life was one long fight against his wicked enemies.
To survive he knows he has to trust in his faithful Lord.
In you, O Lord, I have taken refuge; let me never be put to shame ...
You have not handed me over to the enemy but have set my feet in a spacious place.
Be merciful to me, O Lord, for I am in distress ...
But I trust in you, O Lord ... My times are in your hands. ...
How great is your goodness on those who take refuge in you.
In the shelter of your presence you hide them from the intrigues of men.
Psalm 32
All men long for happiness and will do almost anything to obtain it;
except to repent and believe that Christ had to be crucified !!
Blessed is he whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered.
All other happiness (= blessedness) is at best only transient.
How did David find this happiness?
I acknowledged my sin to you and did not cover up my iniquity.
Today few are willing to acknowledge their sin - especially what God calls sin.
e.g. greed, homosexuality, evolution (instead of creation), immorality, compromise for popularity ...
Or else they try to earn God's approval by striving to do good - but inevitably fail.
A man is not justified by observing the law, but by faith in Jesus Christ. Gal 216
Most men have thus lost their way, and being without Christ, they can have no certainty of heaven.
But to the forgiven God says, "I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go."
The Lord's unfailing love surrounds the man who trusts in him (for forgiveness).
Psalm 33
This was written on a good day. His enemies were quiet.
Sing joyfully to the Lord, you righteous; it is fitting for the upright to praise him.
And he tells us why:
For the word of the Lord is right and true; he is faithful in all he does ...
By the word of the Lord were the heavens made ... For he spoke, and it came to be ...
The Lord foils the plans of the nations ... But the plans of the Lord stand firm forever ...
Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord ...
The eyes of the Lord are on those who fear him ...
In him our hearts rejoice, for we trust in his holy name.
Man may make smart phones, transplant heart valves, and explode atomic bombs,
but they are a temporary 'nothing' when compared with God's creation, power and eternity.
Psalm 34
David was quick to acknowledge that any success/deliverance was from the Lord.
Glorify the Lord with me; let us exalt his name together ...
Poverty may be social or spiritual as well as financial.
This poor man called, and the Lord heard him; he saved him out of all his troubles. (and Math 53,4)
The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear him, and he delivers them. ...
The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.
A righteous man may have many troubles, but the Lord delivers him from them all.
There is no occasion when the Lord abandons us or leaves us unprotected.
His covenant is eternal; never transient or temporary.
The Lord redeems his servants - for ever!
The poor, fearful, brokenhearted, and troubled are all cared for and delivered by the Lord.
We have so much to be grateful for. 'Count your blessings, name them one by one'.
Psalm 35
Again David seeks God's help in overcoming his many enemies:
Contend, O Lord, with those who contend with me; fight against those who fight against me. ...
Say to my soul, "I am your salvation."
May those who seek my life be disgraced and put to shame;
Then my soul will rejoice in the Lord and delight in his salvation.
"Who is like you, O Lord? You rescue the poor from those too strong for them.
When my prayers returned to me unanswered, I went about mourning.
They slandered me without ceasing. Like the ungodly they maliciously mocked.
O Lord, you have seen this; be not silent.
Vindicate me in your righteousness, O Lord my God; do not let them gloat over me.
The psalm finishes with thanksgiving to the Lord.
My tongue will speak of your righteousness and of your praises all day long.
This was not a bribe, but heartfelt gratitude for the presence of the Lord.
Psalm 36
David lists the main sins of the wicked:
There is no fear of God before his eyes.
For in his own eyes he flatters himself too much to detect or hate his sin.
The words of his mouth are wicked and deceitful ... and does not reject what is wrong.
Since 'the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom', the wicked may be clever, but are not wise.
But concerning the righteous:
Both high and low among men find refuge in the shadow of your wings.
For with you is the fountain of life; in your light we see light.
Psalm 37
Do not fret because of evil men or be envious of those who do wrong ...
Trust in the Lord and do good;
Delight yourself in the Lord and he will give you the desires of your heart.
Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him.
Do not fret ... For evil men will be cut off, but those who hope in the Lord will inherit the land.
The wicked plot against the righteous ... but the Lord laughs at the wicked, for he knows their day is coming.
Better the little that the righteous have than the wealth of many wicked.
The wicked lie in wait for the righteous, seeking their very lives; but the Lord will not leave them in their power.
In this psalm the righteous are given good reason why we should not fret:
The salvation of the righteous comes from the Lord; he is their stronghold in time of trouble.
Psalm 38
My guilt has overwhelmed me like a burden too heavy to bear.
I am feeble and utterly crushed; I groan in anguish of heart.
It is not revealed what particular sin caused him such misery; or whether it was sin in general.
Another cause for depression was again his many enemies.
For I said, "Do not let them gloat or exalt themselves over me when my foot slips.
Many are those who are my vigorous enemies; those who hate me without reason are numerous.
There is only one reliable way to deal with such sadness;
and David took this right path - 'Take it to the Lord in prayer'.
O Lord, do not forsake me; be not far from me, O my God.
Come quickly to help me, O Lord my Saviour.
Psalm 39
There are many occasions when we are itching to say something; but by the grace of God we withhold.
David records how he also struggled with this situation.
I said, "I will watch my ways and keep my tongue from sin; I will put a muzzle on my mouth ...
But when I was silent ... my anguish increased. My heart grew hot within me,
and as I meditated, the fire burned; then I spoke with my tongue.
We need to remember what the Lord said, "out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks." Math 1234
He realised that life is too short to be spoiled by an impatient word.
"Hear my prayer, O Lord, listen to my cry for help; be not deaf to my weeping."
Psalm 40
I waited patiently for the Lord;
He lifted me out of the slimy pit,
He set my feet on a rock.
Blessed is the man who makes the Lord his trust.
Indeed he is blessed; and he remains so.
Sacrifice and offering you did not desire, but my ears you have pierced. (see Exd 215,6)
I desire to do your will, O my God;
I speak of your faithfulness and salvation ...
O Lord, come quickly to help me.
May all who seek to take my life be put to shame and confusion ...
May those who love your salvation always say, "The Lord be exalted!"
Psalm 41
Blessed is he who has regard for the weak ...
The Lord will protect him and preserve his life;
he will bless him in the land and not surrender him to the desire of his foes ...
Even my close friend, whom I trusted, he who shared my bread, has lifted up his heel against me.
But you, O Lord, have mercy on me; raise me up, that I may repay them.
I long for the day when David no longer has any enemies. I expect he did too!
David had real compassion for the weak; he did not support them for extra pack-points
It is certainly not David trying to bribe God to help him in his many trials.
Psalm 42
My soul thirsts for God, for the living God.
This is the basis, the forefront of all David's life - his longing for God.
He cried when men kept asking, "Where is your God?"
Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me?
Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Saviour and my God.
Wickedness and war always surrounded him; why can't there be a righteous kingdom?
He realised that only Almighty God could achieve this.
And thus repeats this question about being downcast, and his determined answer of hope in God.
Psalm 43
It seems that all his life David was lonely and oppressed by wicked enemies. So he pleaded with God:
Vindicate me, O God, and plead my cause against an ungodly nation; rescue me from deceitful and wicked men.
Send forth your light and your truth, let them guide me;
let them bring me to your holy mountain, to the place where you dwell.
Only where God is will there be found the transparent truth and eternal righteousness that he craved.
He concludes with the same question and hope as the previous psalm.
Psalm 44
It is very important that we learn from history. This psalm does just that.
We have heard with our ears, O God; our fathers have told us what you did in their days, in days long ago.
With your hand you drove out the nations ...
It was not by their sword that they won the land, ... it was your right hand, your arm ...
you give us victory over our enemies, you put our adversaries to shame.
But now the psalmist says it is a different story.
You have made us a reproach to our neighbours, the scorn and derision of those around us.
Why? They claimed to be innocent.
Our hearts had not turned back; our feet had not strayed from your path.
But clearly they were deceived.
Just as we are today, when our often God-rejecting nation claims to be innocent.
The psalmist gasps: Awake, O Lord! Why do you sleep? Rouse yourself! Do not reject us forever.
We pray that our political leaders will do likewise.
And that we will first learn to confess our sinfulness.
Psalm 45
A song written by the sons of Korah for David at one of his weddings.
Your lips have been anointed with grace, since God has blessed you forever. ...
In your majesty ride forth victoriously in behalf of truth, humility and righteousness ...
Your throne, O God, will last for ever and ever; a sceptre of justice will be the sceptre of your kingdom.
You love righteousness and hate wickedness; therefore God, your God, has set you above your companions. ...
Therefore the nations will praise you for ever and ever.
David had high hopes and good intentions, but he needed forgiveness.
His kingdom did not endure for ever, but the kingdom of great David's greater Son is eternal.
See hymn 'Hail to the Lord's anointed, Great David's greater son!'
Psalm 46
Throughout history - and continuing now - the world has experienced war.
In 2018 the world spent $1,800 Billion on its armed forces.
War, natural disasters and disease have always caused sinful man to fear.
Only a few follow the psalmist and say:
God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.
Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea.
And even fewer recognise that Almighty God has chosen the Jews and Jerusalem as his dwelling place.
There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, the holy place where the Most High dwells.
God is within her, she will not fall; God will help her at break of day.
Nations are in uproar, kingdoms fall; he lifts his voice, the earth melts.
The Lord Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress.
One day he will return and bring peace to his earth.
And in that day believers from all nations will join the streams that make glad the city of God.
He makes wars cease to the ends of the earth ...
"Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations,
I will be exalted in the earth." The Lord Almighty is with us.
Psalm 47
Perhaps the most common and foolish blasphemy today is that Almighty God can simply be ignored as irrelevant!
So the psalmist writes the truth:
Shout to God with loud songs of joy!
For the Lord, the Most High, is to be feared, a great king over all the earth. ...
God reigns over the nations; God sits on his holy throne.
The day will surely come when he will demonstrate this by punishing the wicked.
Psalm 48
Great is the Lord and greatly to be praised in the city of our God!
His holy mountain, beautiful in elevation, is the joy of all the earth.
If only our great King were the joy of all on earth; but sadly he is not, not yet.
But one day he will be in the city of our God, which God will establish forever.
Then, and only then, will all men see Your right hand is filled with righteousness.
And all men will rejoice in his kingdom for ever.
Psalm 49
The writer declares: Why should I fear in times of trouble,
when the iniquity of those who cheat me surrounds me ...?
God will ransom my soul from the power of Sheol.
This psalm is summed up in a single repeated verse (12 & 20):
Man in his pomp will not remain; he is like the beasts that perish.
Psalm 50
The Mighty One, God the Lord, speaks and summons the earth ...
The heavens declare his righteousness, for God himself is judge!
God is not interested in sacrifices from men who think they will earn him favour.
But delights in the gratitude of those who trust in his sacrifice for their forgiveness.
Therefore Offer to God a sacrifice of thanksgiving.
Psalm 51
(Nathan exposed David's murder of Uriah - David repents thoroughly and humbly)
Have mercy on me, O God, ...
Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin! ...
Against you, you only, have I sinned ... Wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow. ...
Hide your face from my sins, and blot out all my iniquities.
David realised that he had always been sinful and needed to be 'born again'.
He knew he had to change and therefore pleads with God,
Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me. ...
and uphold me with a willing spirit.
He acknowledged that only God could do this;
he could not change himself and no self-sacrifice was sufficient.
For you will not delight in sacrifice, or I would give it ...
The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit.
This psalm is the essential experience and testimony of all who would be Christians.
It is leagues distant from those who think they can just 'decide to follow Jesus'.
Psalm 52
Down the ages men have sought power.
They will fight to both gain and to retain it.
Deceit has always been high on the list of characteristics required for this.
Why do you boast of evil, O mighty man? ...
Your tongue plots destruction ...
You love evil more than good, and lying more than speaking what is right. ...
But God will break you down forever ...
But I am like a green olive tree in the house of God. I trust in the steadfast love of God.
Psalm 53
The fool says in his heart, "There is no God."
Today there are many fools.
Atheists and humanists are common, beside all the false gods Allah, Hindu, Budda ...
God looks down from heaven on the children of man
to see if there are any who understand, who seek after God.
He is always on the lookout to increase his family.
But sadly he concludes, They have all fallen away.
And through his tears he cries:
Oh, that salvation for Israel would come out of Zion!
When God restores the fortunes of his people.
Psalm 54
For some 13 years David was on the run from the jealous Saul.
On this occasion it was the Ziphites.
O God, save me by your name ... For ... ruthless men seek my life.
David was sharp, very sharp; but he always acknowledged how much he needed God's protection.
Behold, God is my helper ... in your faithfulness put an end to them.
And he did. So David could rightly declare:
For he has delivered me from every trouble,
and my eye has looked in triumph on my enemies.
Psalm 55
How could the man who strode out to fight Goliath write such a psalm as this?
My heart is in anguish within me; the terrors of death have fallen upon me.
Fear and trembling come upon me, and horror overwhelms me.
When faced with Goliath, he knew the presence of Almighty God.
He said, "I come to you in the name of the Lord of hosts,
the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied ..."
Now his enemy was Saul who wanted to kill him. But David refused to kill Saul.
So the one sided battle went on year after year; and David became weary of it.
He cried, "Oh, that I had wings like a dove! I would fly away and be at rest."
But I call to God, and the Lord will save me. ...
He redeems my soul in safety from the battle that I wage, for many are arrayed against me.
Cast your burden on the Lord, and he will sustain you;
he will never permit the righteous to be moved.
But you, O God, will cast them down into the pit of destruction.
In spite of the relentless pressure, David was determined to trust in the Lord.
God has given us a great example to follow.
Psalm 56
While on the run from Saul, the Philistines seized David at Gath.
When I am afraid, I put my trust in you.
In God, whose word I praise, in God I trust;
I shall not be afraid. What can flesh do to me? (Repeated in 5610,11)
Psalm 57
David hides from Saul in the Qumran caves; and cries to God.
Be merciful to me, O God, be merciful to me, for in you my soul takes refuge
I cry out to God Most High, to God who fulfills his purpose for me.
However his desire was not only for God's help, but that through it all God would be glorified.
Be exalted, O God, above the heavens!
Let your glory be over all the earth! (and repeated at the end of the psalm)
He continued:
I will give thanks to you, O Lord, among the peoples; I will sing praises to you among the nations.
For your steadfast love is great to the heavens, your faithfulness to the clouds.
God did protect David, see 1 Sam 21-27. And David sang God's praise in most of his 79 psalms.
Psalm 58
David sees a very distinct 'black and white' world.
The wicked are estranged from the womb ...
They have venom like the venom of a serpent.
The righteous will rejoice when he sees the vengeance (of God)
Surely there is a reward for the righteous.
Surely there is a God who judges on earth.
He longed for God's righteous kingdom. Its fulfillment will 'surely' come to pass.
We too are assured that this great day will soon come.
But remember judgement always comes before righteousness.
Psalm 59
David asks God to destroy his enemies, especially those sent by Saul to watch him.
Did God protect David because of his prayer or because he was God's chosen and anointed king?
It seems a long way from what Jesus taught that we should love our enemies. Math 543,44
Deliver me from my enemies, O my God ... and save me from bloodthirsty men.
For behold, they lie in wait for my life ... spare none of those who treacherously plot evil.
David was confident that God would hear his cry for help.
How else could the name of the Lord be honoured?
My God in his steadfast love will meet me; God will let me look in triumph on my enemies. ...
Consume them in wrath; consume them till they are no more,
that they may know that God rules over Jacob to the ends of the earth.
O my Strength, I will sing praises to you, for you, O God, are my fortress,
the God who shows me steadfast love.
Psalm 60
The circumstances of this psalm express David's despair. It seemed that:
O God, you have rejected us, broken our defences, you have been angry ...
But Almighty God made a covenant with Israel that he will never break.
He will correct and discipline his people when they sin, but never abandon them.
Thankfully the psalm ends with David trusting in the Lord God.
Oh, grant us help against the foe, for vain is the salvation of man!
With God we shall do valiantly; it is he who will tread down our foes.
Psalm 61
David's early home life as a shepherd made him a loner.
But it caused him to seek, find and trust in the ever faithful Lord.
Hear my cry, O God, listen to my prayer;
from the end of the earth I call to you when my heart is faint.
Lead me to the rock that is higher than I,
for you have been my refuge, a strong tower against the enemy.
Let me dwell in your tent forever!
Let me take refuge under the shelter of your wings!
And Almighty God welcomed him for ever - secure, protected and righteous.
Psalm 62
For God alone my soul waits in silence.
'In silence' = in quiet confidence that includes prayer.
The psalmist also tells us what he is longing for: from him comes my salvation.
He alone is my rock and my salvation, my fortress; I shall not be greatly shaken. ...
Trust in him at all times, O people; pour out your heart before him.
With such an attitude and objective, no man will be disappointed with God.
He will find truth and peace for his restive soul in the Word of God.
Psalm 63
David was on the run from Saul, alone in the wilderness. No smart phone or even sheep!
O God, you are my God; earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you ...
Because your steadfast love is better than life, my lips will praise you.
For you have been my help, and in the shadow of your wings I will sing for joy. ...
But those who seek to destroy my life shall go down into the depths of the earth.
Revealing the abounding grace of God, David remains confident that with God, victory was certain.
Psalm 64
David is beset by enemies - again!
Hear my voice, O God, in my complaint ...
Hide me from the secret plots of the wicked ...
They hold fast to their evil purpose.
And he expects God to destroy them all.
But God shoots his arrow at them ... They are brought to ruin.
So David is grateful to God.
Let the righteous one rejoice in the Lord and take refuge in him!
Psalm 65
A happy day to sing God's praise.
Praise is due to you, O God ... O you who hear prayer,
Blessed is the one you choose and bring near. ... O God of our salvation
The one who by his strength established the mountains ... who stills the roaring of the seas.
You visit the earth and water it ... the river of God is full of water. ...
You crown the year with your bounty ... The pastures of the wilderness overflow.
Psalm 66
Shout for joy to God, all the earth ... All the earth worships you.
If only this were true today. But one day it will be.
Come and see what God has done:
he is awesome in his deeds toward the children of man. ...
Come and hear, all you who fear God,
and I will tell what he has done for my soul.
We echo the exclamation of John Baptist - the greatest prophet:
"Behold! The Lamb of God, who takes away the sin the the world!" Jn 129
Psalm 67
Many hope, and even expect Almighty God to bless us. Why? Is it just for our benefit?
May God be gracious to us and bless us ...
that your way may be known on earth, your saving power among all nations.
God shall bless us;
let all the ends of the earth fear him!
Blessing is given that all may see the grace of God
and that all my revere him and appreciate his 'saving power'.
Psalm 68
David always saw his enemies as being God's enemies.
God shall arise, his enemies shall be scattered ... the wicked shall perish before God!
But the righteous shall be glad; they shall exult before God. ...
God settles the solitary in a home; he leads out the prisoners to prosperity,
but the rebellious dwell in a parched land. ...
Blessed be the Lord, who daily bears us up; God is our salvation. Selah
This is surely something to keep in mind with continual gratitude.
Awesome is God from his sanctuary; the God of Israel—he is the one who gives power and strength to his people.
Blessed be God!
Psalm 69
David's enemies sometime seemed more numerous and more consistent than he could bear.
Save me, O God! For the waters have come up to my neck.
More in number than the hairs of my head are those who hate me without cause;
mighty are those who would destroy me, those who attack me with lies.
He did not claim perfection, but confessed his faults.
O God, you know my folly; the wrongs I have done are not hidden from you.
David does not pretend to love his many enemies, but cries to God:.
Let them be blotted out of the book of the living; let them not be enrolled among the righteous.
His 29 verses of complaint and need for God's help end with praise - as do most of his psalms.
Let heaven and earth praise him, the seas and everything that moves in them.
For God will save Zion and build up the cities of Judah ...
and those who love his name shall dwell in it.
Ps 70
A familiar theme!
Make haste, O God, to deliver me! O LORD, make haste to help me!
Let them be put to shame and confusion who seek my life!
May all who seek you rejoice and be glad in you!
May those who love your salvation say evermore, "God is great!"
But I am poor and needy; hasten to me, O God!
Psalm 71
Another psalm that starts with:
In your righteousness deliver me and rescue me; incline your ear to me, and save me!
You have given the command to save me, for you are my rock and my fortress.
And concludes with the words:
My tongue will talk of your righteous help all the day long,
for they have been put to shame and disappointed who sought to do me hurt.
Psalm 72
A prayer for his son Solomon.
Give the king your justice, O God, and your righteousness to the royal son!
May he judge your people with righteousness, and your poor with justice! ...
May there be abundance of grain in the land ... May people be blessed in him.
But after David died, riches, power and presumption soon caused Solomon to discard his great wisdom.
He married many Hittite wives and enslaved the Israelites to construct his lavish buildings.
He even worshipped their idols. See 1 Kgs 111-13 121-20
Psalm 73
Asaph asks God why does he allow evil men to so often prosper.
I was envious of the arrogant when I saw the prosperity of the wicked.
For they have no pangs until death; their bodies are fat and sleek.
They are not in trouble as others are; they are not stricken like the rest of mankind.
There seemed to be no answer ... until I went into the sanctuary of God; then I discerned their end.
For behold, those who are far from you shall perish.
Psalm 74
Asaph's next question:
O God, why do you cast us off forever? Why does your anger smoke against the sheep of your pasture? ...
How long, O God, is the foe to scoff? Is the enemy to revile your name forever?
And the Lord reveals the truth.
Yet God my King is from of old, working salvation in the midst of the earth. ...
Yours is the day, yours also the night; you have established the heavenly lights and the sun.
You have fixed all the boundaries of the earth; you have made summer and winter. ...
Have regard for the covenant.
Psalm 75
Asaph sings:
We give thanks to you, O God; we give thanks, for your name is near. We recount your wondrous deeds.
And the Lord reveals: "At the set time that I appoint ... I will judge with equity.
When the earth totters, and all its inhabitants, it is I who keep steady its pillars."
All the horns of the wicked I will cut off, but the horns of the righteous shall be lifted up.
Psalm 76
Asaph continues to sing:
In Judah God is known; his name is great in Israel.
His abode has been established in Salem, his dwelling place in Zion. ...
At your rebuke, O God of Jacob, both rider and horse lay stunned. ...
From the heavens you uttered judgment; the earth feared and was still,
when God arose to establish judgment, to save all the humble of the earth.
This is a good song for every generation, especially today.
Psalm 77
Sometimes our days are filled with uncertainty; unsure what our God is doing to his earth.
I cry aloud to God, aloud to God, and he will hear me.
In the day of my trouble I seek the Lord; in the night my hand is stretched out without wearying;
You hold my eyelids open; I am so troubled that I cannot speak.
"Will the Lord spurn forever?
Has God forgotten to be gracious?
Has he in anger shut up his compassion?"
What should we do and how should we think during such times?
I will remember the deeds of the LORD ...
Your way, O God, is holy. ...
You with your arm redeemed your people, the children of Jacob and Joseph.
The faithfulness of God is sure, his covenant is unbreakable, his plan is always fulfilled.
Psalm 78
How does God teach his people? To whom does he reveal his truth?
I will open my mouth in a parable; I will utter dark sayings from of old,
things that we have heard and known, that our fathers have told us ...
that the next generation might know them, and not forget the works of God,
but keep his commandments.
It should be remembered that the Lord taught in parables that seekers may hear and believe,
but others would remain in darkness. Math 1310-17
The psalmist reminds those who choose to reject God's wisdom will pay a high price.
He reminds them how the anger of God rose against them in the wilderness.
But in spite of their entrenched rebellion,
he chose the tribe of Judah, Mount Zion, which he loves. ...
With upright heart he shepherded them.
Psalm 79
The patient grace of God has always amazed men.
But the question, "How long?" still lingers - even in heaven! (Rev 610)
How long, O LORD? Will you be angry forever?
Pour out your anger on the nations that do not know you,
and on the kingdoms that do not call upon your name!
For they have devoured Jacob and laid waste his habitation.
Help us, O God of our salvation, for the glory of your name;
deliver us, and atone for our sins, for your name's sake!
Why should the nations say, "Where is their God?"
May we humbly accept God's judgement and await with patience the fulfilling of his revealed plan.
But we your people, the sheep of your pasture, will give thanks to you forever.
Psalm 80
It is always a great relief and privilege when someone listens to our concerns.
Give ear, O Shepherd of Israel ... and come to save us! ...
O LORD God of hosts, how long will you be angry with your people's prayers? ...
You brought a vine out of Egypt; ... Why then have you broken down its walls?
Give us life, and we will call upon your name!
Today in UK it is easy to see why; for we have so wholeheartedly rejected the Lord God.
Disasters are a warning; but will this privileged nation take heed and repent?
We continue to plead for mercy.
As the next psalm reveals, it is not so much God listening to us, but will we listen to God?!
Psalm 81
Hear, O my people, while I admonish you! O Israel, if you would but listen to me!
There shall be no strange god among you; you shall not bow down to a foreign god.
I am the LORD your God, who brought you up out of the land of Egypt.
Open your mouth wide, and I will fill it.
But as so often happens, Israel refused and preferred to go its own way.
But my people did not listen to my voice; Israel would not submit to me.
So I gave them over to their stubborn hearts.
And Israel forfeited God's gracious longing:
he would feed you with the finest of the wheat, and with honey from the rock I would satisfy you.
Psalm 82
God has taken his place in the divine council.
And he asks:
"How long will you judge unjustly?
Give justice to the weak and the fatherless ...
Rescue the weak and the needy; deliver them from the hand of the wicked."
Asaph responds:
Arise, O God, judge the earth; for you shall inherit all the nations!
Does he realise that natural man will never practice true justice?
Only the rule of God can bring lasting righteousness, compassion and change.
Psalm 83
Too often the enemies of Almighty God make an uproar; while he remains silent.
They demand: "Come, let us wipe them out as a nation; let the name of Israel be remembered no more!
This is as true today as when it was written nearly 3,000 years ago.
Almost daily the Iranian and Palestinian leaders proclaim their desire to wipe Israel off the map!
The psalmist pleads with God: "Do to them as you did to Midian, as to Sisera and Jabin at the river Kishon. ...
O my God, make them like whirling dust, like chaff before the wind. ...
Let them be put to shame and dismayed forever; let them perish in disgrace,
that they may know that you alone, whose name is the LORD, are the Most High over all the earth."
Psalm 84
With God, all our best dreams come true when they originate with him.
And even in all the trials of this world he gives us a foretaste.
The sons of Korah witnessed to this truth:
How lovely is your dwelling place, O LORD of hosts!
My soul longs, yes, faints for the courts of the LORD; my heart and flesh sing for joy to the living God. ...
Blessed are those who dwell in your house, ever singing your praise! Selah
Blessed are those whose strength is in you, in whose heart are the highways to Zion. ...
For a day in your courts is better than a thousand elsewhere.
I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than dwell in the tents of wickedness.
No good thing does he withhold from those who walk uprightly.
O LORD of hosts, blessed is the one who trusts in you!
Psalm 85
The sons of Korah realised that history and faith have a good wholesome connection.
First they quoted their history:
LORD, you were favourable to your land; you restored the fortunes of Jacob.
You forgave the iniquity of your people; you covered all their sin. Selah
You withdrew all your wrath.
Then they prayed with faith:
Restore us again, O God of our salvation ...
Let me hear what God the LORD will speak, for he will speak peace to his people, to his saints.
And thus correctly conclude:
Steadfast love and faithfulness meet; righteousness and peace kiss each other.
Such is the grace and mercy of God towards all who are willing to repent and believe.
Psalm 86
Why was David's life so often filled with trouble. He longed for peace, but rarely found it on earth.
Incline your ear, O LORD, and answer me, for I am poor and needy.
Be gracious to me, O Lord, for to you do I cry all the day.
For you, O Lord, are good and forgiving, abounding in steadfast love to all who call upon you.
In the day of my trouble I call upon you.
Teach me your way, O LORD, that I may walk in your truth.
Most of his 'trouble' seemed to be that he has many more enemies than friends.
O God, insolent men have risen up against me
But you, O Lord, are a God merciful and gracious,
slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness.
Today Almighty God, in whom he put his trust, has fulfilled all his longing. He has no enemies now.
Psalm 87
The LORD loves the gates of Zion.
And of Zion it shall be said, "This one and that one were born in her."
Singers and dancers alike say, "All my springs are in you."
How does the world view Jerusalem?
Far from being a city of peace; it is probably the most fought over place on earth!
The rule over Jerusalem has changed 17 times from between 1004 BC and Christ,
and a further 22 times in the last 1,400 years.
Only when Jesus returns to Jerusalem will the city know lasting peace.
Psalm 88
O LORD, God of my salvation, I cry out day and night before you.
For my soul is full of troubles, and my life draws near to Sheol. ...
Your wrath lies heavy upon me, and you overwhelm me with all your waves.
Currently the world is deeply troubled; but only a few follow the wise example of the sons of Korah.
It is a day of opportunity; but soon it will be too late.
O LORD, ... Why do you hide your face from me? ... I am helpless ...
Unlike Ps 42 and 43, here there is no answer, just the cry of a helpless soul.
A cry that the merciful Lord has promised to answer. Joel 232a
Psalm 89
Ethan had every reason to earnestly sing of the steadfast love of the Lord.
God had promised David,
"I have made a covenant with my chosen one ... I will establish your offspring forever."
He shall cry to me, 'You are my Father, my God, and the Rock of my salvation.'
The enemy shall not outwit him; the wicked shall not humble him.
God had created and rules all things:
The heavens are yours; the earth also is yours; the world and all that is in it, you have founded them.
Righteousness and justice are the foundation of your throne; steadfast love and faithfulness go before you.
But then (the exiled ?) Ethan cries out: How long, O LORD? Will you hide yourself forever?
Lord, where is your steadfast love of old, which by your faithfulness you swore to David?
Psalm 90
A prayer of Moses who saw how great Almighty God is.
Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever you had formed the earth and the world,
from everlasting to everlasting you are God.
For a thousand years in your sight are but as ... a watch in the night. ...
We are brought to an end by your anger ... You have set our iniquities before you.
The years of our life are seventy, or even by reason of strength eighty;
So teach us to number our days that we may get a heart of wisdom.
Return, O LORD! How long? Have pity on your servants!
Let the favour of the Lord our God be upon us.
Probably the greatest evil today is the Evolution Theory. A Satanic lie that is now taught as truth.
From this proud, arrogant man easily rejects and blasphemes the Almighty Creator God.
He thus sees no need for Christ crucified for our forgiveness,
and is totally careless that he will have to face the anger and Judgement of God.
Thank God for the wisdom and example of Moses.
Psalm 91
There can be no greater privilege than being invited to dwell with Almighty God.
He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty.
He will cover you with his pinions, and under his wings you will find refuge
You will not fear the terror of the night, nor the arrow that flies by day ...
With God our eternal souls are completely secure and at peace.
But we may have to endure persecution and share some of the world's tribulation.
Because you have made the LORD your dwelling place
no evil shall be allowed to befall you
For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways.
In our life on earth he will very often protect us,
but occasionally he may have a good reason to allow us to suffer.
When the Son of God suffered on the Cross, the reason was revealed - our salvation.
When we suffer, it may have to remain a mystery in our life of trust and privilege.
Psalm 92
The Sabbath is intended to give a day of opportunity to praise God for his amazing creation.
It is good to give thanks to the LORD
For you, O LORD, have made me glad by your work; at the works of your hands I sing for joy.
The fool cannot understand this:
they are doomed to destruction forever; but you, O LORD, are on high forever.
And rightly so!
It is utterly ridiculous to think that there is no designer and no creator.
Yet today we honour men whom proclaim it all just happened by chance.
The righteous flourish like the palm tree ... They still bear fruit in old age.
Psalm 93
The LORD reigns.
Mightier than the thunders of many waters.
Your decrees are very trustworthy.
As world events try to frighten us, let us remember this eternal truth.
Psalm 94
Rise up, O judge of the earth; repay to the proud what they deserve!
They crush your people, O LORD, ... and they say, "The LORD does not see.
Is it wrong to desire that the wicked be crushed?
Has the psalmist given up all hope that they might be converted?
Blessed is the man whom you discipline, O LORD, and whom you teach out of your law.
For the LORD will not forsake his people.
The LORD has become my stronghold, and my God the rock of my refuge.
The righteous are confident in the Lord; but take care that we do not become proud.
Psalm 95
The psalmist is rightly determined to sing praises to God.
Oh come, let us sing to the LORD; let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation!
Oh come, let us worship and bow down; let us kneel before the LORD, our Maker!
There then comes a warning. Praise is empty if obedience is absent.
Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts.
Hardened hearts will never find true, lasting peace with God.
They shall not enter my rest.
Psalm 96
Sing to the LORD, bless his name; tell of his salvation from day to day.
Declare his glory among the nations, his marvellous works among all the peoples!
The LORD made the heavens. (and the earth)
Splendour and majesty are before him; strength and beauty are in his sanctuary.
The LORD reigns!
Let the heavens be glad, and let the earth rejoice ... for he comes to judge the earth.
He will judge the world in righteousness, and the peoples in his faithfulness.
When he comes wickedness and all evil will be extinguished.
His longed-for righteous kingdom will be established for ever.
"And they all lived happily ever after!"
Almighty God will more than fulfill all the our best God-given dreams.
Psalm 97
The psalms are very distinctive; judgement is 'yes' or 'no', never 'maybe'.
The LORD reigns, let the earth rejoice ...
Fire goes before him and burns up his adversaries all around. ...
The mountains melt like wax before the LORD, before the Lord of all the earth.
The heavens proclaim his righteousness.
Zion hears and is glad, because of your judgments, O LORD.
We can but cast ourselves before the Lord trusting in his mercy because Jesus is our Redeemer.
Our confidence is solely in the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world - and mine.
Psalm 98
Oh sing to the LORD a new song, for he has done marvellous things!
The LORD has made known his salvation.
He has remembered his steadfast love and faithfulness to the house of Israel.
All the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God.
Make a joyful noise to the LORD, all the earth ... for he comes to judge the earth with righteousness.
We can now join their gladness because God's 'steadfast love and faithfulness to the house of Israel'
includes believing Gentiles. Such is the grace of God to 'all the ends of the earth'.
Psalm 99
Worship includes thanksgiving, but this psalm reveals why it must go much further.
The LORD reigns; let the peoples tremble! ... let the earth quake!
Let them praise your great and awesome name!
Holy is he!
Holy is he!
Exalt the LORD our God, and worship at his holy mountain;
for the LORD our God is holy!
Psalm 100
Serve the LORD with gladness! ... Singing!
Know that the LORD, he is God! It is he who made us, and we are his.
His steadfast love endures forever, and his faithfulness to all generations.
There is nothing temporary about the love of God for us.
History proves his faithfulness to the children of Abraham throughout 40 centuries!
Psalm 101
David's earnestness in wanting holiness and to walk with God is very commendable.
Oh when will you come to me?
But this psalm seems to be mostly about what David is going to do to earn God's favour.
Holiness is more a gift of God's grace than a human achievement.
To you, O LORD, I will make music.
I will walk with integrity of heart.
I will not set before my eyes anything that is worthless.
I will know nothing of evil.
Whoever slanders his neighbour secretly I will destroy.
No one who practices deceit shall dwell in my house.
I will destroy all the wicked in the land.
Psalm 102
Hear my prayer, O LORD; Do not hide your face from me in the day of my distress!
I am like a lonely sparrow on the housetop. All the day my enemies taunt me.
His personal plight mirrored that of the nation which was his principal distress.
I wither away like grass. But you, O LORD, are enthroned forever ...
You will arise and have pity on Zion ... the appointed time has come.
For the LORD builds up Zion; he appears in his glory
Of old you laid the foundation of the earth ...
The children of your servants shall dwell secure.
The history of Israel will prove the grace and faithfulness of Almighty God.
Psalm 103
Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits,
who forgives all your iniquity,
who heals all your diseases,
who redeems your life from the pit,
who crowns you with steadfast love and mercy.
Life often flows along a familiar path and I can forget all that the Lord has done and does for me.
The Lord made known his ways to Moses, his acts to the people of Israel.
The LORD is merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love.
He does not deal with us according to our sins.
As far as the east is from the west, so far does he remove our transgressions from us.
Bless the LORD, O my soul!
Psalm 104
This beautiful psalm describes in detail how God created the heavens and all in this earth,
and now he still orders it - in spite of man's selfish, greedy abuse.
God created all the land, water and weather; all the creatures; all the resources; all the physics and chemistry.
magnetism, electricity, gravity, love and the 5 senses. All the inter-dependant systems. Everything!
(There is 11.2 times more sea than volume of land above sea level)
The writer concludes:
O LORD, how manifold are your works! In wisdom have you made them all.
May the glory of the LORD endure forever; may the LORD rejoice in his works,
who looks on the earth and it trembles, who touches the mountains and they smoke!
I will sing to the LORD as long as I live.
Let sinners be consumed from the earth, and let the wicked be no more!
Bless the LORD, O my soul! Praise the LORD!
Psalm 105
A psalm of thanksgiving based largely upon the history of God rescuing Israel from Egypt. (Vv 7-45)
Oh give thanks to the LORD; call upon his name; make known his deeds among the peoples!
Seek the LORD and his strength; seek his presence continually!
Remember the wondrous works that he has done.
He remembers his covenant forever.
Gratitude based upon facts and the faithfulness of God, not vague future hope.
Psalm 106
History teaches us many things. The writer here rehearses how often Israel disobeyed their God.
Though he often punished them, they were slow to learn.
As a nation, UK today has largely forgotten Almighty God and church leaders have compromised.
It should not surprise us that God sends judgement; but it does surprise us.
History is important. We need to admit: Both we and our fathers have sinned.
And learn from history the consequences.
Yet he saved them for his name's sake, that he might make known his mighty power.
But they continued to rebel and sinned.
Then the anger of the LORD was kindled against his people.
Nevertheless, he looked upon their distress, when he heard their cry.
For their sake he remembered his covenant.
So the sin, punishment, crying and forgiveness cycle was continually repeated.
Save us, O LORD our God, and gather us from among the nations,
that we may give thanks to your holy name and glory in your praise.
Psalm 107
Oh give thanks to the LORD, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever!
Let the redeemed of the LORD say so.
How does the Lord reveal his 'steadfast love'?
Some wandered in desert wastes, finding no way to a city to dwell in.
He led them by a straight way till they reached a city to dwell in.
Some sat in darkness and in the shadow of death, for they had rebelled against the words of God
He brought them out of darkness and the shadow of death.
Some were fools through their sinful ways, and because of their iniquities suffered affliction
He sent out his word and healed them.
Some went down to the sea in ships ... they reeled and staggered like drunken men.
He made the storm be still, and the waves of the sea were hushed.
Each of these first had to cry to the Lord in their distress.
Many refuse to humble themselves, even in the depths of their trouble.
Refusing to admit any personal fault, they blame everyone and everything else.
Almighty God turns rivers into a desert, springs of water into thirsty ground, ...
because of the evil of its inhabitants.
But to all who repent and seek God the end is very different.
Almighty God turns a desert into pools of water, ...
there he lets the hungry dwell, and they establish a city to live in;
they sow fields and plant vineyards and get a fruitful yield. ...
he raises up the needy out of affliction and makes their families like flocks.
Conclusion?
Whoever is wise, let him attend to these things; let them consider the steadfast love of the LORD.
He was pierced for our transgressions,
And bruised for our iniquities,
And to bring us peace he was punished,
And by his stripes we are healed.
Psalm 108
David is determined to be one with God.
My heart is steadfast, O God! I will sing and make melody with all my being!
For your steadfast love is great above the heavens; your faithfulness reaches to the clouds.
Even with all his intellect and ability David needed more than just God's help.
Let your glory be over all the earth! That your beloved ones may be delivered
Oh grant us help against the foe, for vain is the salvation of man!
With God we shall do valiantly; it is he who will tread down our foes.
Psalm 109
David once more pleads with God to defeat his many enemies.
Be not silent, O God of my praise! For wicked and deceitful mouths are opened against me,
They encircle me with words of hate, and attack me without cause.
He takes a personal vengeance against his enemies.
May his days be few ... May his children be fatherless and his wife a widow!
May the iniquity of his fathers be remembered before the LORD!
David should be commended for his honesty; even if his thoughts are not helpful.
He continues: But you, O GOD my Lord, deal on my behalf for your name's sake
For I am poor and needy, ... I am gone like a shadow at evening
Help me, O LORD my God! Save me according to your steadfast love!
With my mouth I will give great thanks to the LORD.
Psalm 110
The world and its ungodly rulers have all but destroyed God's fantastic creation
and because of their pride and greed have rejected His offer of salvation.
God knew this would happen, but still created. His plan will be completed and heaven will be filled.
The LORD says to my Lord (his Son): "Sit at my right hand, until I make your enemies your footstool."
The plan had to include the coming and the crucifixion of Christ,
and his current time seated at his Father's side awaiting the day of his imminent return as King.
David saw and believed this promise of Almighty God:
The LORD sends forth from Zion your mighty sceptre. Rule in the midst of your enemies!
The LORD has sworn and will not change his mind, "You are a priest forever after the order of Melchizedek."
He will shatter kings on the day of his wrath. He will execute judgment among the nations.
He will drink from the brook by the way !
Everything about our God is amazing.
Psalm 111
Praise the LORD! I will give thanks to the LORD with my whole heart
Great are the works of the LORD, studied by all who delight in them.
The LORD is gracious and merciful.
He provides food for those who fear him;
he remembers his covenant forever. ... He sent redemption to his people
The works of his hands are faithful and just; all his precepts are trustworthy.
How different are the words and works of God from those of man.
All scripture is true and so reliable. Compare that with the BBC news!!
Psalm 112
Blessed is the man who fears the LORD, who greatly delights in his commandments!
God's commands and laws are not a burden, but 'precious' - Ps 197-11 even if sometimes difficult.
Light dawns in the darkness for the upright; he is gracious, merciful, and righteous.
The Word of God brings wisdom, truth and forgiveness.
The way of God, his directives, are always best, even if we don't know his reasoning.
In pain and the shared tribulation of the world, His heart is steady; he will not be afraid.
O to grace how great a debtor, daily I'm constrained to be ...
Psalm 113
The Lord is worthy of our praise all day, every day.
Blessed be the name of the LORD from this time forth and forevermore!
From the rising of the sun to its setting,
The LORD is high above all nations, and his glory above the heavens!
Yet so many ignore him and are ignorant of all his handiwork;
from the microscopic to furthest stars,
and his compassion for the poorest peasants to the richest kings.
Psalm 114
When Israel went out from Egypt ... Judah became his sanctuary.
The sea looked and fled; Jordan turned back. The mountains skipped like rams.
Tremble, O earth, at the presence of the Lord.
The world today needs to learn to bow in awe before Almighty God.
Psalm 115
The proof of the Lord Almighty is, and always has been in his creation for all to see and appreciate.
Israel and the church should also be a good witness, but we have too often failed in this.
Why should the nations say, Where is their God?"
The world scoffs and blasphemes against God. They make all sorts of idols.
Their idols are silver and gold, the work of human hands.
They have mouths, but do not speak; eyes, but do not see; ears, but do not hear ...
Those who make them become like them; so do all who trust in them.
What utter folly! All idols are dead. They have no soul.
O Israel, trust in the LORD!
The heavens are the LORD's heavens, but the earth he has given to the children of man.
The dead do not praise the LORD, nor do any who go down into silence.
But we will bless the LORD from this time forth and forevermore.
Psalm 116
Today many are encouraged to seek the Lord for the blessing of a better, easier life.
This psalmist reveals a far better reason:
for eternal life he needed the mercy and forgiveness of God.
I love the LORD, because he has heard my voice and my pleas for mercy.
Gracious is the LORD, and righteous; our God is merciful.
For you have delivered my soul from death.
What was his response to God's gracious deliverance?
I will walk before the LORD in the land of the living.
I will lift up the cup of salvation and call on the name of the LORD
Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of his saints.
O LORD, I am your servant ... You have loosed my bonds.
I will offer to you the sacrifice of thanksgiving and call on the name of the LORD.
Psalm 117
A simple 2 verse psalm that expresses a great lasting truth for all nations, not just Israel.
Praise the LORD, all nations!
For great is his steadfast love toward us,
and the faithfulness of the LORD endures forever.
Psalm 118
"His steadfast love endures forever."
When Almighty God shakes his world and all men are troubled,
this truth will maintain our hope and faith in him.
The LORD is on my side; I will not fear. What can man do to me?
It is better to take refuge in the LORD than to trust in man.
This is always true. Do not trust gold or our own ability - both are fallible.
The LORD is my strength and my song; he has become my salvation.
This is the day that the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.
Blessed is he who comes in the name of the LORD!
Psalm 119
Blessed are those whose way is blameless, who walk in the law of the LORD!
Blessed are those who keep his testimonies, who seek him with their whole heart.
This is true. But the big problem is that no man can achieve this however hard he tries.
The psalmist realises this too.
Oh that my ways may be steadfast.
His determination to do his very best fills the rest of this, the longest psalm:
I will delight in your statutes; I will not forget your word.
Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of your law.
My soul clings to the dust; give me life according to your word!
Behold, I long for your precepts; in your righteousness give me life!
I remember your name in the night, O LORD, and keep your law.
The earth, O LORD, is full of your steadfast love; teach me your statutes!
Let your mercy come to me, that I may live; for your law is my delight.
My soul longs for your salvation; I hope in your word.
In your steadfast love give me life, that I may keep the testimonies of your mouth.
Forever, O LORD, your word is firmly fixed in the heavens.
Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.
You spurn all who go astray from your statutes, for their cunning is in vain.
The unfolding of your words gives light; it imparts understanding to the simple.
Your testimonies are righteous forever; give me understanding that I may live.
The sum of your word is truth, and every one of your righteous rules endures forever.
Let my cry come before you, O LORD; give me understanding according to your word!
I long for your salvation, O LORD ... Let my soul live and praise you.
Throughout this long psalm the writer, who continually meditates upon God's word,
still longs for salvation, God's salvation, that brings an eternal and righteous life.
Knowledge and determination cannot bring salvation, only trusting in Christ crucified can do so;
the perfect sacrificial Lamb of God, who alone can take away the sin of the world.
The fulness of this gracious truth would not be revealed to the world for another 1,000 years,
when God would grant the longing of this psalmist's heart.
Psalm 120
First of 15 'Songs of Ascents'; the journey up to the city of God.
The writer first gives us his reason.
In my distress I called to the LORD, ...
Deliver me, O LORD, from lying lips, from a deceitful tongue.
He was tired of living among wicked, deceitful men,
and the constant war against evil.
Too long have I had my dwelling among those who hate peace.
I am for peace, but when I speak, they are for war!
The Lord reveals his answer; but not in this psalm.
Immoveable our hope remains,
Within the veil our anchor lies;
Jesus, who washed us from our stains
Shall bear us safely to the skies.
Founded on Christ, secure we stand,
Sealed with his Spirit's inward seal;
We soon shall gain the promised land,
Triumphant o'er the powers of hell.
Psalm 121
We all need help; though some may pretend they don't.
Who or where is the best help to be found?
My help comes from the LORD, who made heaven and earth.
Behold, he who keeps Israel will neither slumber nor sleep.
The LORD will keep you from all evil; he will keep your life.
From this time forth and forevermore.
Only the Lord's help is always effective and consistent.
Often we need help to understand why some things happen.
He enables us to believe All things work together for good to those who love God. Ro 828-39
Psalm 122
"Let us go to the house of the LORD!"
Jerusalem—built as a city that is bound firmly together.
But historically Jerusalem has yet to become bound firmly together. Therefore:
Pray for the peace of Jerusalem! "May they be secure who love you!"
Only when Jesus returns will Jerusalem find the prayed for peace that the Jews have longed for.
Jerusalem has been ruled by 39 different peoples over last 3,000 years. Ironic name 'Salem' = 'Peace'.
No other capital city has been so fought over in world history.
Psalm 123
With so much unrest and uncertainty in the world it is good to lift up our eyes to the enthroned Lord.
So our eyes look to the LORD our God, till he has mercy upon us.
The writer is tired of the continuous scorn and contempt of the world for Almighty God.
Our soul has had more than enough of the scorn of those who are at ease, of the contempt of the proud.
The tribulation judgement of God should curb the complacency and pride of the wicked.
But Rev 169,11,21 reveals that men will choose to curse God rather than repent.
Psalm 124
Sometimes it is good to look back and see the kindness and grace of the Lord.
And then couple this with the great faithfulness of God for the future.
If it had not been the LORD who was on our side when people rose up against us,
then they would have swallowed us up alive, when their anger was kindled against us.
Blessed be the LORD ... We have escaped like a bird from the snare of the fowlers.
So the right conclusion is: Our help is in the name of the LORD, who made heaven and earth.
And what is any man when compared with our Creator!
Psalm 125
This psalm reveals and assures us of a simple and most comforting truth:
Those who trust in the LORD are like Mount Zion, which cannot be moved, but abides forever.
As the mountains surround Jerusalem, so the LORD surrounds his people.
For the sceptre of wickedness shall not rest on the land allotted to the righteous.
Down through the ages many saints and martyrs longed for a better and promised country.
Now they have found that the faithful Lord has kept this, his word. See Heb 1113-16
Psalm 126
Restoration is a common longing, especially in times of distress.
When the LORD restored the fortunes of Zion, we were like those who dream.
Even the Gentiles acknowledged what the Lord had done - albeit reluctantly!
Then they said among the nations, "The LORD has done great things for them."
Israel continues to pray and long for the Lord’s coming.
Those who sow in tears shall reap with shouts of joy!
He who goes out weeping, bearing the seed for sowing,
shall come home with shouts of joy, bringing his sheaves with him.
This harvest day will surely come when they will shout for joy.
And we Gentile believers will rejoice with Zion.
Psalm 127
Men build structures that are beautiful and have technology, civil and military, that amazes us;
but without the Lord they cannot found anything that is based upon righteousness, truth and justice.
Unless the LORD builds the house, those who build it labour in vain.
Unless the LORD watches over the city, the watchman stays awake in vain.
Many toil with anxiety and workacholics strive without the peace of God.
Sometimes the righteous work and their Lord gives to his beloved sleep.
But it should be remembered that neither sleep nor the blessing of children
can be used as a measure of personal righteousness; each are simply a gift from God -
given to some and denied to others.
Psalm 128
Blessed is everyone who fears the LORD, who walks in his ways!
But we should be aware of what being 'Blessed' means. See life of Jacob after Gen 359
Wisdom - whose beginning is the fear of the Lord - is also a great blessing.
God gives us excellent instruction as to how to walk in righteousness.
Though man is naturally foolish and thinks he knows a better way;
he is surprised when he is not blessed and peace on earth is so rare!
Psalm 129
David suffered greatly from his step brothers who envied his obvious ability from the start.
To keep the peace he was sent out to look after the family sheep.
Greatly have they afflicted me from my youth, yet they have not prevailed against me.
It is for the Lord to judge the wicked; but it seems that David wanted to lend a hand!
The LORD is righteous; he has cut the cords of the wicked.
May all who hate Zion be put to shame and turned backward!
Psalm 130
This is a remarkable psalm; filled with honest repentance and hope based upon God’s Word.
Out of the depths I cry to you, O LORD!
Let your ears be attentive to the voice of my pleas for mercy!
If you, O LORD, should mark iniquities, O Lord, who could stand?
But with you there is forgiveness, that you may be feared.
I wait for the LORD, my soul waits, and in his word I hope.
The writer not only pleads for himself, but also for his nation of Israel.
O Israel, hope in the LORD!
And he will redeem Israel from all his iniquities.
This encouraging truth is happening today, though still far from complete.
Psalm 131
David had moments of severe depression.
O LORD, my heart is not lifted up; my eyes are not raised too high;
I do not occupy myself with things too great and too marvellous for me.
But I have calmed and quieted my soul.
Psalm 132
David swore, "I will not enter my house or get into my bed, ...
until I find a place for the LORD, a dwelling place for the Mighty One of Jacob."
He brought the Ark into Jerusalem, but it was Solomon who built the first Temple.
Almighty God always desires to dwell with his chosen people - Jews and Gentiles.
For the LORD has chosen Zion; he has desired it for his dwelling place
I will abundantly bless her provisions; I will satisfy her poor with bread.
Her priests I will clothe with salvation, and her saints will shout for joy.
I have prepared a lamp for my anointed.
His enemies I will clothe with shame.
God will complete this, his great desire, however remote this may seem in today’s corrupt
world.
Psalm 133
Behold, how good and pleasant it is when brothers dwell in unity!
Indeed so. But 'to agree to disagree' is not unity;
it only pretends that the disagreement doesn't matter.
Unity requires an honest, open mind that is also willing to admit it can be wrong.
Psalm 134
Come, bless the LORD, all you servants of the LORD ...
May the LORD bless you from Zion, he who made heaven and earth!
Note that the blessing flows in both directions.
Some may find it surprising that we can be a blessing to Almighty God.
Psalm 135
For the LORD has chosen Jacob for himself, Israel as his own possession.
What a privilege! He chose us and drew us to him; not we chose him Jn 644
Whatever the LORD pleases, he does ... He it is who makes the clouds ... for the rain.
Blessed be the LORD ... who dwells in Jerusalem! Even this pleases him!
Psalm 136
This psalm has a single definite message:
Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever.
Each of the 26 verses give a testimony, a reason for repeating the second phrase.
The love of the Lord is steadfast, it never fades, it has been proven to endure.
So it is only right that we should Give thanks to the God of heaven.
Let us each make a personal list that proves the consistent love of God.
It could be many more the just 26!
Psalm 137
People in power often delight to gloat over their slaves. The Babylonians were no exception.
By the waters of Babylon, there we sat down and wept, when we remembered Zion.
On the willows there we hung up our lyres.
For there our captors required of us songs, and our tormentors, mirth, saying,
"Sing us one of the songs of Zion!"
In their long and troubled history the Jews have had to learn difficult lessons; this is one:
How shall we sing the LORD's song in a foreign land?
One day the saved will sing praise for ever in Jerusalem in the very presence of the King of kings.
And moreover, they will never have to ask this question again.
Psalm 138
I give you thanks, O LORD, with my whole heart ...
for your steadfast love and your faithfulness ...
for you have exalted above all things your name and your word.
David had good reason to be grateful to the Lord who had repeatedly rescued him.
He knew from experience God’s love, faithfulness, and the Name and the truth of his Word. (1 Sam 1745)
You stretch out your hand against the wrath of my enemies, and your right hand delivers me.
And throughout all the many twists and turns of his life he confirms:
The LORD will fulfill his purpose for me.
He wrote 79 psalms, killed the blasphemous Goliath,
became King and captured Jerusalem from the Jebusites.
He brought the Ark to Jerusalem and made all the preparations for Solomon to build the Temple.
As promised, Jesus the Saviour was a direct descendant.
Psalm 139
David was very aware that Almighty God knew all about him, both past and future.
O LORD, you have searched me and known me! ... and are acquainted with all my ways. ...
Even before a word is on my tongue, behold, O LORD, you know it altogether.
For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother's womb.
I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. ...
How precious to me are your thoughts, O God! How vast is the sum of them!
But David was always aware of his many enemies.
His enemies were God’s enemies. And God’s enemies were his enemies.
Oh that you would slay the wicked, O God! ... They speak against you with malicious intent ...
Do I not hate those who hate you, O LORD?
He was aware that he also was defective:
Search me, O God, and know my heart!
And see if there be any grievous way in me,
And lead me in the way everlasting!
God was pleased to answer this prayer and lead him in the way of salvation.
Psalm 140
David, like most men, longed for physical peace and freedom not having to guard against deceit.
Deliver me, O LORD, from evil men;
preserve me from violent men, who plan evil things in their heart ...
O LORD, my Lord, the strength of my salvation ... Grant not, O LORD, the desires of the wicked.
Surely the righteous shall give thanks to your name; the upright shall dwell in your presence.
Psalm 141
David yearns for righteousness and truth.
O LORD, I call upon you ... Set a guard, O LORD, over my mouth ...
Do not let my heart incline to any evil.
My eyes are toward you, O GOD, my Lord; in you I seek refuge ...
Let the wicked fall into their own nets, while I pass by safely.
He was a fighter who seems more concerned with his own life than with the conversion of others.
Psalm 142
David prays from an Engedi cave while on the run from Saul.
With my voice I cry out to the LORD; with my voice I plead for mercy to the LORD.
In the path where I walk they have hidden a trap for me.
No refuge remains to me; no one cares for my soul.
You are my refuge, my portion in the land of the living.
Bring me out of prison, that I may give thanks to your name!
Saul had also been anointed, so David rightly refused to attack him.
Only the Lord could deal with his enemy.
When Saul fell on his own sword, David was relieved, but not pleased.
See hymn 'None is like Jeshurun’s God ...'
All his enemies are gone;
Sin shall have in him no part,
Israel now shall dwell alone
With Jesus in his heart.
This was what David desired - and we do too!
Psalm 143
David continues his desperate plea. Only Almighty God could rescue him.
Hear my prayer, O LORD; give ear to my pleas for mercy!
For the enemy has pursued my soul ... Therefore my spirit faints within me.
I stretch out my hands to you; my soul thirsts for you like a parched land.
For your name's sake, O LORD, preserve my life!
In your righteousness bring my soul out of trouble!
The gracious Lord granted his request.
But he was 'on the run' from Saul for some 13 years. (1 Sam 18-31)
Psalm 144
Blessed be the LORD, my rock, who trains my hands for war.
David was always a man of war. Successful because he trusted in the Lord.
Bright and strong, yet knew his weakness.
O LORD, what is man that you regard him ...
Man is like a breath; his days are like a passing shadow.
Rescue me and deliver me from the hand of foreigners,
whose mouths speak lies and whose right hand is a right hand of falsehood.
Blessed are the people whose God is the LORD!
Psalm 145
In all David’s many trials he is not slow in giving thanks to God.
Every day I will bless you and praise your name forever and ever.
Great is the LORD, and greatly to be praised, and his greatness is unsearchable.
On the glorious splendour of your majesty, and on your wondrous works, I will meditate.
The LORD is gracious and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love.
The LORD upholds all who are falling
The LORD is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth.
The LORD preserves all who love him, but all the wicked he will destroy.
Let all flesh bless his holy name forever and ever.
When our eyes are opened to see all that the Lord has done and continues to do,
it is easy for our hearts to be filled with wonder, love and praise.
Lord, please keep my eyes open.
Psalm 146
This psalm puts all life into a proper perspective, with Almighty God at the centre.
Foolish men have always tried in vain to enthrone themselves.
I will praise the LORD as long as I live.
Put not your trust in princes, in a son of man, in whom there is no salvation.
Blessed is he whose help is the God of Jacob, whose hope is in the LORD his God,
who made heaven and earth ...
who keeps faith forever;
who executes justice for the oppressed,
who gives food to the hungry.
The LORD sets the prisoners free;
the LORD opens the eyes of the blind.
The LORD lifts up those who are bowed down;
the LORD loves the righteous.
But the way of the wicked he brings to ruin.
Psalm 147
The Lord God remains very active in his creation; sometimes popular and sometimes controversial.
Either way he remains the King of Kings.
The LORD builds up Jerusalem; he gathers the outcasts of Israel.
He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.
He determines the number of the stars; he gives to all of them their names.
The LORD takes pleasure in those who fear him, in those who hope in his steadfast love.
He sends out his command to the earth; his word runs swiftly.
Some men rejoice in this truth; but most are quite careless concerning God’s Word.
May they realise their folly before it is too late.
Psalm 148
An injunction to everyone and everything to Praise the Lord!
Angels and even all creatures, mountains, trees, birds, that he created.
And especially kings of the earth and all people, princes ... old men and children.
The evolution theory lie denies Almighty God all praise that is so obviously his due.
So It is not surprising that the world will suffer much for believing this lie.
Disobedience is costly. Praising God is not so much a duty, but it is a delight.
O Lord my God, when I in awesome wonder
Consider all the worlds thy hand has made ...
Then sings my soul, my Saviour God, to thee
How great thou art, how great thou art.
Psalm 149
Let Israel be glad in his Maker; let the children of Zion rejoice in their King!
Indeed so. Sadly most of Israel does not honour God as Creator or King. Neither does UK.
But individually, the LORD takes pleasure in his people; he adorns the humble with salvation.
Amazing!
Let the high praises of God be in their throats
and two-edged swords in their hands, to execute vengeance on the nations.
While we are engaged in a continuous battle against all wickedness,
we do not wrestle against flesh and blood but against authorities, ...
against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. Eph 612
When surrounded and ruled by evil men it is difficult to discern who or what we are actually fighting against.
Psalm 150
Final psalm of richly deserved praise to the Lord.
Praise him for his mighty deeds; praise him according to his excellent greatness!
Let everything that has breath praise the LORD!
Amen!
Proverbs [Contents]
Mostly written by king Solomon He could never match the ability of his father David on the battlefield, so he turned his mind and goal to seek God for wisdom, discernment and truth. See 1 Kgs 3. And the Lord gave him great wisdom, as revealed in this writing. Knowing what to believe and how to behave is one thing, but to practice it is quite another. We all need the mercy and grace of God together with a new birth if we are to be righteous. We are all naturally ignorant, foolish and in need of God’s truth and wisdom. King Solomon, in spite of his God-given wisdom, broke God’s command and chose to love many foreign women ... when Solomon was old his wives turned away his heart after other gods, and his heart was not wholly true to the LORD his God, as was the heart of David his father. 1 Kgs 111,4
We need to ‘hear’ what he wrote, but obviously not follow his example.
Wisdom is not how to be successful, but how to be godly. When Provebs speaks of wisdom, it speaks of Jesus Christ.
Blessed are the meek; they are always seeking to learn of God and understand the days in which we live.
| 11-7 The goal defined |
To know wisdom and instruction. He opens with the great truth - the need for all men to learn wisdom and to take heed to it. By the grace of God to ‘trust and obey’ him and his directives. Wisdom includes receiving instruction, practising righteousness, justice, equity, prudence ... discretion ... learning .... guidance. It has its beginning, its start in this: The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction. |
| 18-19 Wisdom of parents |
The first proverb: children should heed their parents advice about peer pressure. My son, if sinners entice you, do not consent. If they say, “Come with us, ... we shall find all precious goods, we shall fill our houses with plunder ... Such are the ways of everyone who is greedy for unjust gain. The 'love of money’ is a common enticement, and is not limited to thieving. Deceitful gain is just as bad as breaking open a safe or shop-lifting. This parental advice is both wise and necessary to stop the ‘root of all evil’ growing |
| 120-33 Fools despise reproof |
How long will scoffers delight in their scoffing and fools hate knowledge? The answer is simple, but unpopular: You refused to listen, ... and would have none of my reproof. Proud man remains foolish because he cannot admit his need e.g. Very able, clever men like Attenborough and Dawkins remain fools. They choose to remain deluded - and will suffer the consequences. In the day when terror strikes ... and your calamity comes ... I will not answer. God says it will then be too late because they despised all my reproof. See also Ps 141 531 |
| 21-22 Wisdom must be sought |
If you call out for insight and raise your voice for understanding, ... Then you will understand the fear of the LORD and find the knowledge of God ... Then you will understand righteousness and justice discretion will watch over you ... delivering you from the way of evil. ... But the wicked will be cut off from the land. |
| 31-12 Meekness |
A meek spirit is not weak but trusts and sees the need for revelation and obedience. Here are four examples and applications, especially for leaders: Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding ... Be not wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD, and turn away from evil ... Honour the LORD with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your produce ... Do not despise the LORD'S discipline or be weary of his reproof, for the LORD reproves him whom he loves. As James would later write: By his good conduct let him show his works in the meekness of wisdom. James 313 One of the greatest leaders in Scripture was Moses, of whom it says, Now the man Moses was very meek, more than all people who were on the face of the earth. Num 123 |
| 313-35 Wisdom blesses all |
Blessed is the one who finds wisdom ... She is more precious than jewels. ... She is a tree of life to those who lay hold of her. ... The LORD by wisdom founded the earth; by understanding he established the heavens. |
| 4,5 Wisdom avoids all sin |
Do not enter the path of the wicked The lips of a forbidden woman drip honey, but in the end she is bitter as wormwood The iniquities of the wicked ensnare him. |
| 61-19 Practical warnings |
Go to the ant, O sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise. A perverted heart devises evil, continually sowing discord. The Lord hates: 1. Haughty eyes 2. A lying tongue 3. Hands that shed innocent blood 4. A heart that devises wicked plans 5. Feet that make haste to run to evil 6. A false witness 7. One who sows discord among brothers. |
| 620and 727 Warning about adultery |
The danger of this is well summarised in 627 and 722 Can a man carry fire next to his chest and his clothes not be burned? As a bird rushes into a snare; he does not know that it will cost him his life. Jesus warns that it not only the physical act but says everyone who looks at a woman with lustful intent has already committed adultery with her in his heart. Math 528 |
| 81-36 Selective correction |
Do not reprove a scoffer, or he will hate you; reprove a wise man, and he will love you. The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom. Unless we recognise the greatness of Almighty God, faith can easily be false, self-confident leaders flourish and God’s just judgement and forgiveness in Christ is ignored. The wise man will listen to correction and welcome it. |
| 101 - 1533 |
There follows an wide variety of individual proverbs. These are a selection: Treasures gained by wickedness do not profit. (See Ps 733 and 17) The LORD does not let the righteous go hungry The mouth of the righteous is a fountain of life, but the mouth of the wicked conceals violence.
Whoever heeds instruction is on the path to life, |
| 161 - 2030 |
The LORD has made everything for its purpose, even the wicked for the day of trouble. The heart of man plans his way, but the LORD establishes his steps. How much better to get wisdom than gold! Whoever gives thought to the word will discover good, and blessed is he who trusts in the LORD. There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death. A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity. Even a fool who keeps silent is considered wise. The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous man runs into it and is safe. A man's spirit will endure sickness, but a crushed spirit who can bear? A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother. House and wealth are inherited from fathers, but a prudent wife is from the LORD. Whoever is generous to the poor lends to the LORD. Many are the plans in the mind of a man, but it is the purpose of the LORD that will stand. The sluggard does not plow in the autumn; he will seek at harvest and have nothing. Even a child makes himself known by his acts. Bread gained by deceit is sweet to a man, but afterward his mouth will be full of gravel. The spirit of man is the lamp of the LORD, searching all his innermost parts. |
| 211 - 2422 |
Whoever closes his ear to the cry of the poor will himself call out and not be answered. Whoever loves pleasure will be a poor man; he who loves wine and oil will not be rich. The prudent sees danger and hides himself, but the simple go on and suffer for it. Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it. Whoever sows injustice will reap calamity. The mouth of forbidden women is a deep pit. Do not move the ancient landmark that your fathers have set. Do not move an ancient landmark or enter the fields of the fatherless. Be not envious of evil men ... By wisdom a house is built. Do not rejoice when your enemy falls ... lest the LORD see it and be displeased. |
| 2423 - 2927 |
A little sleep, a little slumber, ... and poverty will come upon you like a robber. A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in a setting of silver Like a gold ring ... is a wise reprover to a listening ear. If your enemy is hungry, give him bread to eat ... and the LORD will reward you. Like snow in summer or rain in harvest, so honour is not fitting for a fool. Like a dog that returns to his vomit is a fool who repeats his folly. For lack of wood the fire goes out, and where there is no whisperer, quarrelling ceases. Whoever digs a pit will fall into it. Better is a neighbour who is near than a brother who is far away. A continual dripping on a rainy day and a quarrelsome wife are alike. As in water face reflects face, so the heart of man reflects the man. Better is a poor man who walks in his integrity than a rich man who is crooked in his ways. Whoever conceals his transgressions will not prosper, but he who confesses and forsakes them will obtain mercy. Whoever works his land will have plenty of bread, but he who follows worthless pursuits will have plenty of poverty. A greedy man stirs up strife, but the one who trusts in the LORD will be enriched. He who gives to the poor will lack nothing, but he who closes his eyes to them receives many curses. The righteous care about justice for the poor, but the wicked have no such concern. Where there is no revelation, the people cast off restraint; but blessed is he who keeps the law. Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in the LORD is kept safe. |
| 301-33 Sayings of Agur |
Every word of God is flawless; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him. Do not add to his words, or he will rebuke you and prove you a liar.
Two things I ask of you, O LORD:
There are three things that are never satisfied, four that never say, ‘Enough!’:
Under three things the earth trembles, under four it cannot bear up: |
| 311-31 Words of King Lemuel |
It is not for kings to drink wine. Open your mouth, judge righteously, defend the rights of the poor and needy. An excellent wife who can find? She is far more precious than jewels. The heart of her husband trusts in her. She rises while it is yet night and provides food for her household. She opens her hand to the poor. Strength and dignity are her clothing, and she laughs at the time to come. She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue. A woman who fears the LORD is to be praised. |
Ecclesiastes [Contents]
Who was ‘the Preacher’? Probably Solomon. Why did he write this book?
| Ecc 11-11 ‘All is vanity’ |
Vanity = temporary, like the morning mist, not substantial or lasting. The first question is: What does man gain by all the toil? It does not effect when the sun rises or sets. All streams run to the sea, but the sea is not full. What has been is what will be ... there is nothing new under the sun. This is true if, but only if we consider our life, and the life of everyone else as being just a few years between birth and death. But it is much more than that. There are only a few Alexander Flemings or Hitlers who have changed the lives of millions. Most are like the humble bee that lives about 6 weeks and brings but one teaspoon of nectar; but without each of them there would be no hive!
Is he asking what is the purpose of this life on earth if our work changes nothing ? |
| Ecc 112-18 Wisdom |
The ‘preacher’ used his wisdom to understand all that is done under heaven. Is he trying to understand why there is endless war, disease, disasters ... ? This is indeed an unhappy business, a fruitless task. If this ‘king’, with all his resources used his wisdom to build hospitals and relieve the poor he would not find this an unhappy business. He who increases knowledge increases sorrow is certainly not always true. It depends on the goal of that knowledge. The men and women who recently searched for, and found, an effective vaccine for Covid 19 did not find sorrow. They found the justified satisfaction and gratitude of millions. Those who search the skies seeking to understand the distant galaxies do not find sorrow. Many find great wonder at God’s amazing creation, its laws and variety. And this does not require modern telescopes or a Hubble satellite. The ‘preacher’ writes: In much wisdom is much vexation. If ‘wisdom’ is trying to fathom the depths of some mystery, that is often frustrating. But if wisdom is appreciating the truth that the Lord God is pleased to reveal, that is a delight. As the psalmist wrote, It is sweeter than honey and more precious than gold. Ps 19 This ‘preacher’ declares: What is crooked cannot be made straight. O, yes it can!! This was the whole purpose of the Son of God coming to his creation. To forgive sin, to bring new life, new birth. To do what man cannot do for himself, or others, however able or determined. But our Redeemer can, and he does, as was promised in Isaiah 403,4 Every valley shall be filled, and every mountain and hill shall be made low, and the crooked shall become straight, and the rough places shall become level ways, and all flesh shall see the salvation of God. |
| Ecc 21-11 Self-indulgence |
“Come now, I will test you with pleasure; enjoy yourself.” But behold, this also was vanity. Hedonistic man will search for pleasure in what riches can buy, in wine, in sex, popularity, flying a small aeroplane ... He may well find pleasure, but it will be short lived. It is as the mist that soon evaporates. Vanity. He may take photos from the tops of mountains, of places he visited or people he met to try to remind him of the occasions. Solomon sought satisfaction with 700 wives and 300 concubines. But his wives turned away his heart from the Lord, who was angry with him. 1 Kg 111-13 Little wonder he called this vanity. With the consequent anger of the Lord, this could well be called vanity ++ ! The Wesley brothers and the Oxford Holy Club made a habit of visiting the men held in prison (Latimer and Bilney did the same). This kindness is the opposite of self-indulgence. It brought satisfaction to them and much relief to the prisoners. Today the Daylight Prison Trust continue this work. The kingdom of heaven is greatly enriched and vanity is nowhere to be seen. |
| Ecc 212-17 Living wisely |
This section starts well and true. There is more gain in wisdom than in folly, as there is more gain in light than in darkness. But then he slips off track and says: “What happens to the fool will happen to me also. Why then have I been so very wise?” ... This also is vanity ... seeing that in the days to come all will have been long forgotten. Where did his ‘wisdom’ lead him? It clearly was not founded in the fear of the Lord. Is it possible that the Lord our Redeemer would forget one for whom he had been willing to be crucified in order to save? The Shepherd who had 99 sheep safely protected in the fold went out searching for the one that had strayed. This ‘preacher’ seems to have no realisation of God’s plan of salvation for sinful man or the wise! |
| Ecc 218-26 Toil |
I hated all my toil in which I toil under the sun, seeing that I must leave it to the man who will come after me ... This also is vanity. ... So I turned about and gave my heart up to despair ... all his days are full of sorrow. For whom did he toil? Himself or others? When Jesus ministered for over 3 years on earth, he toiled to bring men truth, forgiveness, righteousness and also to heal, deliver and bring to life. Yes, he was called a man of sorrows and was acquainted with grief. Is 533 Yes, there were times when he wept. But he completed all that he came to earth to achieve for us. He would also have been delighted to hear his Father say, “Well done, good and faithful servant!” He wrote the words that the Psalmist records, Weeping may tarry for the night, but joy comes with the morning. Ps 305 |
| Ecc 31-8 Everything has a time |
These verses are among the most well known in Ecclesiastes. For everything there is a season: a time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted; a time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; a time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance; a time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing; a time to seek, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away; a time to tear, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak; a time to love, and a time to hate; a time for war, and a time for peace. We need to discern when each is appropriate; when it is God’s time or his choice. It is best to seek God’s way rather than use the verse as an excuse to do what I want. |
| Ecc 39-15 God’s work |
On the third day of creation God designed and created all the vegetation to sprout and spread everywhere on the earth. On the fifth day he created all the fish and the birds. Then on the sixth day he created all the animals. And he told all the fish, birds and animals to multiply. He has made everything beautiful in its time. Indeed so. Also, he has put eternity into man's heart, yet so that he cannot find out what God has done from the beginning to the end. Does this mean that God has intentionally recorded the creation so that we cannot know how, when and even what he designed and created - first all the planets and stars and then all that is living. Today man is very misled by the Evolution Theory lie that totally and foolishly denies any creation by Almighty God.
I perceived that whatever God does endures forever; |
| Ecc 316-22 Judgement |
I saw under the sun that in the place of justice, even there was wickedness, and in the place of righteousness, even there was wickedness. I said in my heart, God will judge the righteous and the wicked. Clearly there will come a day when all will be judged. First to determine our destiny by whether our names are written in the Book of Life, and then to determine our reward according to records in the Books. See Rev 2011-15
What happens to the children of man and what happens to the beasts is the same; as one dies, so dies the other. ... All are from the dust, and to dust all return. |
| Ecc 41-16 The Oppressed |
Behold, the tears of the oppressed, and they had no one to comfort them! On the side of their oppressors there was power, and there was no one to comfort them. So the ‘Preacher’ concluded that the dead who are already dead are more fortunate than the living. ... better than both is he who has not yet been and has not seen the evil deeds. Under such a depressed illusion, ‘all is vanity’
One person who has no other ... This also is vanity and an unhappy business.
A threefold cord is not quickly broken.
He considers the way of a king. There was no end of all the people, all of whom he led. Yet those who come later will not rejoice in him. Surely this also is vanity. |
| Ecc 51-7 Wise advice |
Guard your steps when you go to the house of God. To draw near to listen is better than to offer the sacrifice of fools. For when dreams increase and words grow many, there is vanity; but God is the one you must fear. To whom did the ‘Preacher’ listen. And whom did he obey? |
| Ecc 58 - 729 Vanity of wealth (Rarely seen as such |
There has probably never been a richer king than Solomon. But wealth is more often a stumbling block than an advantage. He who loves money will not be satisfied with money. Everyone also to whom God has given wealth and possessions and power to enjoy them ... this is the gift of God. Really? It is better to give than receive. Act 2035 But Solomon did not experience or appreciate this. He just wrote: There is an evil ... God gives wealth, possessions, and honour, so that he lacks nothing of all that he desires, yet God does not give him power to enjoy them, but a stranger enjoys them. This is vanity. To selfishly keepall that we have is lost opportunity. And it forfeits much joy. For who knows what is good for man while he lives the few days of his vain life. God knows. And he shares it with those to whom he gives a generous spirit. In the day of prosperity be joyful, and in the day of adversity consider: God has made the one as well as the other. And he will enable the reverse too! Ro 53-5 It is better for a man to hear the rebuke of the wise than to hear the song of fools. |
| Ecc 81-9 Obey the king |
Keep the king's command, because of God's oath to him. Do not take your stand in an evil cause, for he does whatever he pleases. These are just two sentences; but the last phrase is somewhat alarming, and in the case of Solomon sadly it is true. And worse, what pleased him with his foreign wives angered the Lord. Much of what Solomon said was wise; but not everything. Beware! |
| Ecc 810-13 Fear the Lord |
The sentence against an evil deed is not executed speedily. Though a sinner does evil a hundred times and prolongs his life ... But it will not be well with the wicked ... because he does not fear before God. Long years do not prove that a man is righteous or that he is wicked. |
| Ecc 814 - 910 Bad advice |
Both the righteous and the wicked can have either an easy of a difficult life. The ‘preacher’ says: This also is vanity. I commend joy, for man has nothing better under the sun but to eat and drink and be joyful. (Also 224 97 1019) On this occasion the ‘preacher’ gives some bad advice, which he repeats. For the living know that they will die, but the dead know nothing. Go, eat your bread with joy, and drink your wine with a merry heart, for God has already approved what you do. In the parable of the rich fool, Jesus says the man who said “Soul, you have ample goods laid up for many years; relax, eat, drink, be merry”, was a fool. Lu 1213-21 |
| Ecc 911,12 Time and chance |
The race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, ... but time and chance happen to them all. For man does not know his time. In life there are man surprises and coincidences, but our God is never surprised. And it is safe to trust him with all our future. |
| Ecc 913 - 1212 Wise proverbs |
The words of the wise heard in quiet are better than the shouting of a ruler among fools. Wisdom is better than weapons of war. Nations have always been slow to apply this wisdom.
If the iron is blunt, ...he must use more strength, but wisdom helps one to succeed. He who digs a pit will fall into it.
Even in your thoughts, do not curse the king, Cast your bread upon the waters, for you will find it after many days.
If a tree falls to the south or to the north,
In the morning sow your seed, and at evening withhold not your hand,
Walk in the ways of your heart and the sight of your eyes. Remember also your Creator in the days of your youth. Of making many books there is no end, and much study is a weariness of the flesh. |
| Ecc 128,13 Summary |
Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man. 1. The preacher should practice what he preaches. Solomon failed to do so. 2. Forgiveness and faith is by hearing the Word of God and believing the prophets and what Christ has fulfilled to redeem us. Without Christ, and the new birth he gives us, no man can keep his commandments. |
Song of Songs [Contents]
This little book is one of the least read in the Bible. It is a series of poems that beautifully describe the pure and godly development of the relationship between a man and a woman. Its great value to the Christian is seen when applied allegorically to describe the relationship between Christ and his bride. Hudson Taylor, the great missionary to China, wrote a most helpful little book, ‘Union and Communion’, to which I am much indebted for these thoughts.
Song 12 - 27 The Unsatisfied Life and its Remedy
The allegorical song opens with one who is alone and longing for a Saviour.
Your name is like perfume poured out ...take me away with you ... 13
Tell me, you whom I love, where you graze your flock ...
Why should I be like a veiled woman ... 17
It is like the opening verse of Ps 46
As a deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, O God. Ps 421
The onlookers tell her how to find him:
If you do not know ... Follow the tracks of the sheep ... 18
In The Pilgrim’s Progress, Christian longs to escape from the City of Destruction.
Evangelist “Do you see in the distance a small Wicket-Gate?”
Christian “No.”
Evangelist “Do you see a shining light?”
Christian “Yes.”
Evangelist “Go directly towards it and you will find the Gate.
Knock, and you will be told what to do next.”
Then I saw in my dream that the man ran towards the light that he could see.
Many in the city tried to stop him, but he refused to listen, and ran all the faster.
Seekers of God are told to ‘Follow the tracks’
The way that men and women have made down the centuries;
tracks that lead to Christ and the redeeming Cross.
God has made an enduring promise to all who have this deep longing:
If you seek the Lord your God, you will find him
if you seek him with all your heart. Deut 429 Jer 2913 Heb 116
This is the heart of this song: Our longing, our dreams of being accepted
by the Lord Almighty, Saviour and Friend, will be fulfilled!
They meet, and in an imagined passionate conversation of love at first sight.
BG (Bridegroom) How beautiful you are, my darling!
Oh, how beautiful! Your eyes are like doves.
B (Bride) How handsome you are my lover! Oh how charming!
And our bed is verdant. (green)
BG The beams of our house are cedars; and our rafters firs.
B I am a rose of Sharon, a lily of the valleys.
BG Like a lily among thorns is my darling among the maidens ...
B Like an apple tree among the trees of the forest is my lover
among the young men. 19 - 23
Then the scene changes; they are together in the palace.
B He has taken me to the banquet hall and his banner over me is love.
His left arm is under my head and his right arm embraces me. 24,5
But the ideal does not last. For a moment it was ‘too good to be true.
Song 28 - 35 Communion Broken and Restored
She is at home and alone - longing for the relationship that had started to be reignited.
B Listen! My Lover! Look! Here he comes, leaping across the mountains ...
My Lover is like a gazelle ... Look! There he stands behind our wall ...
And in her mind:
My lover spoke and said to me,
“Arise my darling, my beautiful one, and come with me.
See! the winter is past; the rains are over and gone,
flowers appear on the earth; and the season of singing has come ...
Arise, come my darling; my beautiful one, come with me.” 28-13
This dream is so idealistic, so romantic. If only ...
In fact Jesus has come ‘leaping across the mountains’ - from heaven to earth -
but he came to be crucified on a cruel cross.
He came to be the One who would be ‘despised and rejected’.
Yet he did not give up for a moment. He died; and he rose!
Perhaps she realised it was an unrealistic dream.
For in 215 she cries out:
Catch for us the foxes, the little foxes that ruin the vineyards ...
Foxes kill, they wantonly destroy with lethal cunning.
Men also destroy what is good. Sometimes intentionally, sometimes unwittingly.
Then she realises the ‘all or nothing’ character of the Kingdom of God.
She wants to enjoy the world and its paltry toys for a few moments more.
Until the day breaks and the shadows flee, turn, my lover,
and be like a gazelle or like a young stag on the rugged hills. 217
So he went. He left her.
Then alone, she soon realised her folly - and grieved.
All night long on my bed I looked for the one my heart loves;
I looked for him but did not find him.
I will get up now and go about the city ...
I will search for the one my heart loves.
So I looked for him but did not find him.
She asks the watchmen: “Have you seen the one my heart loves?”
Scarcely had I passed them when I found the one my heart loves.
I held him and would not let him go ... 31-4
Jacob cried out at Peniel, I will not let you go unless you bless me. Gen 3226
Song 36 - 51 Unbroken Communion
Come out, you daughters of Zion, and look at king Solomon wearing the crown,
the crown with which his mother crowned him on the day of his wedding,
the day his heart rejoiced.
And we hear again the BG exclaiming the beauty of his B.
How beautiful you are, my darling! Oh, how beautiful ...
All beautiful you are, my darling; there is no flaw in you.
Come with me ... You have stolen my heart, my sister, my bride ...
How delightful is your love, my sister, my bride!
How much more pleasing is your love than wine ... 41-11
But the response of his bride was not complete, not yet perfect.
You are a garden locked up, my sister, my bride;
you are a spring (of water) enclosed, a sealed fountain ... 412
There was some character flaw, some experience in her past, some distraction
that prevented her love to flow freely.
She is painfully aware of her inadequacy and cries out to God:
Awake, north wind (cold), and come, south wind! (hot)
Blow on my garden, that its fragrance may spread abroad.
Let my lover come into his garden and taste its choice fruits. 416
Ever attentive to her needs the BG immediately assures her:
I have come into my garden, my sister, my bride ... 51
Song 52 - 610 Communion again Broken and Restored
There was a serious problem: and the Bridegroom was outside (but not gone away).
In fact he was pleading at the door!
I slept, but my heart was awake. Listen! My lover is knocking:
“Open to me, my sister, my darling, my dove, my flawless one.
My head is drenched with dew ... 52
When does the dew fall? In the evening!
So he had been waiting at the door all night, patiently knocking.
She says:
I have taken off my robe - must I put it on again?
I have washed my feet - must I soil them again? 53 c.f. Lu 1416-20
My lover thrust his hand through the latch-opening;
my heart began to pound for him.
I arose to open for my lover, and my hands dripped with myrrh ...
I opened for my lover, but my lover had left; he was gone. 55,6
What was the problem? Why had he gone? Had he become impatient? No.
Augustus Toplady gives us the answer:
Nothing in my hand I bring,
Simply to thy cross I cling;
Naked come to thee for dress;
Helpless look to thee for grace:
Foul, I to the fountain fly;
Wash me, Saviour, or I die.
She had tried to win Bridegroom’s approval with myrrh,
with her own cleansing, her own works.
For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith - (in Christ crucified) not by works Eph 28,9
We were reconciled to him through the death of his Son. Ro 510
Christ will not allow his blood to be diluted.
She then goes on an urgent hunt.
She is beaten by the city watchmen. 57
But she doesn’t cry “how unjust” but only Tell him I am faint with love. 58
And when the onlookers ask her about the Saviour she does not yet know, she says:
My lover is radiant and ruddy, outstanding among ten thousand.
His head is purest gold; his hair is wavy and black as a raven ... 510-16
There is not even a suspicion of complaint.
When asked where this mysterious Lover was, she replies:
My lover has gone down to his garden ... to browse in the garden and gather lilies.
I am my lover’s and my lover is mine; he browses among the lilies. 62,3
At last she knew the truth. The Holy Spirit had revealed it to her.
Song 611 - 84 Fruits of Recognised Union
Now she was in the same garden and nothing separated them again.
She hears him sings:
You are beautiful, my darling, lovely as Jerusalem ...
My dove, my perfect one is unique. 64,9
He describes her in beautiful poetry.
And then she declares the binding and eternal truth:
I belong to my lover and his desire is for me.
Come, my lover, let us go to the countryside,
Let us go early to the vineyards. 710-12
Song 85-14 Unrestricted Communion
All her dreams are now reality:
His left arm is under my head and his right arm embraces me.
Many waters cannot quench love; rivers cannot wash it away. 83
The onlookers see the result and exclaim:
Who is this coming up from the desert leaning on her lover? 85
Even the best of this world is a desert. Our Saviour delights for us to lean on him.
and be led by him to the water and righteousness - together for ever!
As Jacob also leaned upon his Staff from Peniel, till he died. Gen 3231 4731
Come away, my lover, and be like a gazelle. 814
Together they enjoyed all the grace, agility and fulness of eternal life.
Isaiah [Contents]
Isaiah = 'The Lord saves'. He was a contemporary of Amos, Hosea, Micah and possibly Joel when Assyria was the local superpower who had exiled the northern tribes of Israel in 722BC. Isaiah 1-39 speak of Judgement, while 40-66 prophesy restoration and deliverance - and not surprisingly is the part that is most well-known! The vision concerning Judah and Jerusalem when Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz and Hezekiah reigned in Jerusalem ~750-700 BC.
| Isaiah 11-17 Judah - a sinful nation |
Hear, O heavens! Listen, O earth! For the Lord has spoken: "I reared children and brought them up, but they have rebelled against me. ... Ah, sinful nation, ... children given to corruption! They have forsaken the Lord; they have spurned the Holy One of Israel and turned their backs on him." This accurate summary of Judah was dismissed - my people do not understand. They did not respect the privilege of being God's chosen people, nor did they understand the consequences of forsaking the Lord. Isaiah knew, and was called as a prophet to correct this folly. He asked, "Why do you persist in rebellion? ... Your country desolate ... your fields are being stripped by foreigners? Hear the word of the Lord." How does the Lord see Judah? He hates all their insincere sacrifices “What to me is the multitude of your sacrifices? Why? Because their lives were rotten, violent, and they worshipped other gods. |
| Isaiah 118-31 Judah - a sinful nationGod's reasoning |
With amazing grace the Lord says, "Come now, let us reason together," says the Lord. "Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow." The Lord does not 'reason' with nations but with individuals. When he reasoned successfully with Nebuchadnezzar, Babylon remained evil. Likewise with king Josiah in Jeremiah's day, Judah did not change or repent. The purpose of God's reasoning is to reveal 1. That the just judgement of sin is death. Man naturally objects to this truth. 2. That sinful men can be forgiven and become 'as white as snow' and live. present) and also the repentance of the sinner.
But God's reasoning leaves Judah with a straightforward choice: |
| Isaiah 21-22 The Mountain of the Lord in the Last Days |
In the last days the mountain of the Lord's temple will be established as chief among the mountains; ... and all nations will stream to it. The Lord would also reveal this great truth to Daniel and Nebuchadnezzar. Dan 2 The law will go out from Zion, the word of the Lord from Jerusalem. Men would come to see Jesus as the fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets. And the longing of many simple folk would be satisfied at last: They will beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning hooks. Nation will not take up sword against nation, nor will they train for war anymore. Total world expenditure on defence in 2018 was $1,822 Billion. Imagine a world with this huge figure reallocated to food and medical care for the poor, and a responsible use of world resources !! Come, O house of Jacob, let us walk in the light of the Lord. This day will come when the Lord establishes his promised righteous kingdom. But in Isaiah's day, and life today, is very different. Judah practised divination like the Philistines ... false religion. Their land is full of silver and gold ... centred on making money. Their land is full of horses; there is no end to their chariots ... military might. They bow down to the work of their hands ... technological pride.
And the result? |
| Isaiah 31 - 41 Judgement warning for Jerusalem |
Isaiah returns to current situation in Jerusalem: Jerusalem staggers, Judah is falling; their words and deeds are against the Lord, defying his glorious presence. The look on their faces testifies against them; they parade their sin like Sodom; they do not hide it. Woe to them! They have brought disaster upon themselves. TelAviv and London and many other cities proudly boast in their Gay parades. They demand and get equal rights, legality and even 'same-sex marriage'. LGBT is now being made part of the curriculum in all UK primary schools! Almighty God warned Jerusalem: Woe to the wicked! Disaster is upon them! They will be paid back for what their hands have done. So what may we expect he do to us? The gap between rich and poor is growing significantly each year in UK. The Lord enters into judgment against the elders and leaders of his people: It is you who have ruined my vineyard; the plunder from the poor is in your houses. Sex was also a problem then, just as it is today. The Lord says, "The women of Zion are haughty, walking along with outstretched necks, flirting with their eyes, tripping along with mincing steps ... In that day the Lord will snatch away their finery ... Your men will fall by the sword, your warriors in battle. The gates of Zion will lament and mourn; destitute, she will sit on the ground ..." |
| Isaiah 42-6 The Branch of the Lord |
In that day the branch of the LORD shall be beautiful and glorious ... And he who is left in Zion and remains in Jerusalem will be called holy, everyone who has been recorded for life in Jerusalem, when the Lord shall have washed away the filth of the daughters of Zion and cleansed the bloodstains of Jerusalem from its midst by a spirit of judgment and by a spirit of burning. ‘That day’ is clearly in the ‘last days’ when the Lord returns. |
| Isaiah 51-7 The Lord creates a vineyard and sings a love-song to it |
I will sing for the one I love a song about his vineyard: My loved one had a vineyard on a fertile hillside. He dug it up and cleared it of stones and planted it with the choicest vines. He built a watchtower in it and cut out a winepress as well. Then he looked for a crop of good grapes, but it yielded only bad fruit. But this song finishes with a major problem. The grapes were sour. He looked for justice, but saw bloodshed; for righteousness, but heard cries of distress. The Lord asks Judah why should this be? What more could have been done for my vineyard ? The answer is clearly 'Nothing'! With great sadness there is but one thing he must do to save the vineyard. I will take away its hedge, and it will be destroyed; I will break down its wall, and it will be trampled. I will make it a wasteland, neither pruned nor cultivated, and briers and thorns will grow there. I will command the clouds not to rain on it. Just in case there is any doubt about who this vineyard story is about, he tells them: The vineyard of the Lord Almighty is the house of Israel, and the men of Judah are the garden of his delight. And echoing down the centuries, this song is still heard by the men of England. Though I fear we may all need the best hearings aids to hear it. |
| Isaiah 58-30 Woe to those who ... x6 |
1. Greed. Woe to you who add house to house ... 2. Drunk. Woe to those who rise early in the morning to run after their drinks ... but they have no regard for the deeds of the Lord. 3. Deceit. Woe to those who draw sin along with cords of deceit ... 4. Invert Truth. Woe to those who call evil good and good evil ... 5. Pride. Woe to those who are wise in their own eyes ... 6. Injustice. Woe to those who ... acquit the guilty for a bribe ... Does the Lord overlook such evil? How much does sin matter? Therefore the Lord's anger burns against his people ... In that day ... if one looks at the land, he will see darkness and distress. Compare this with 'the 7 Woes' that Jesus warned the people concerning the Scribes and Pharisees. He started with: "Everything they do is done for men to see ..." And ended by saying: "You snakes! You brood of vipers! How will you escape being condemned to hell?" Needless to say Math 23 is not often quoted! |
| Isaiah 61-7 Woe is me ... |
Having delivered 6 'Woes' to Judah, the Lord reveals himself to Isaiah. "Holy, holy , holy is the Lord Almighty; the whole earth is full of his glory. ..." "Woe to me!" I cried. "I am ruined! For I am a man of unclean lips ..." He realised it was not only 'them', but also 'me', who needed to be cleansed. The Lord immediately applied his cleansing with a live coal from the altar. He then declared, "See, this has touched your lips; your guilt is taken away and your sin atoned for." Only then was Isaiah ready to be truly commissioned. |
| Isaiah 68-13 Who will go? What shall he say? And for how long? |
Isaiah heard the Lord ask, "Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?" Without hesitation, he volunteers. So he is told to give a strange message: "Go and tell this people: 'Be ever hearing, but never understanding; be ever seeing, but never perceiving.' Make the heart of this people calloused; make their ears dull and close their eyes. Otherwise they might see with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand with their hearts, and turn and be healed." This appears to mean that God doesn't want the people to hear, which is never true. It is simply a way of warning Isaiah that his ministry would not enable the people to understand, but rather that it would result in their choosing to harden their hearts and thus suffer the inevitable judgement of God. This is made clear when Isaiah asks for how long shall his peaching have this negative result, and the Lord tells him, "Until the cities lie ruined and without inhabitant, until the houses are left deserted and the fields ruined and ravaged, until the Lord has sent everyone far away and the land is utterly forsaken. ..." This would happen in 586 BC (~ 140 years later) and again in 70 AD. After both these judgement exiles the Jews are promised that they will return to their land. As the Lord told Isaiah: "But as the terebinth and oak leave stumps when they are cut down, so the holy seed will be the stump in the land." After judgement there would come a day ( in the last days) when the people would hear and repent, Jesus Christ, the 'holy seed', came first as Redeemer and later he would return as King. |
| Isaiah 71-25 Evil Ahaz refuses sign but God gives him one anyway! |
Ahaz was one of the many evil kings of Judah. He was being attacked by a coalition of Israel (Pekah) and Aram (Rezin). God instructs Isaiah to tell him: 'Be careful, keep calm and don't be afraid. ...' They had planned "Let us invade Judah; let us tear it apart and divide it among ourselves ..." But the Sovereign Lord says: "It will not take place ..." Ahaz did not believe anything God said. However, with amazing grace the Lord spoke to Ahaz, "Ask the Lord your God for a sign ..." Ahaz refuses the offer. None-the-less Almighty God determined to give the house of David a sign: Therefore the Lord himself will give you (the house of David) a sign: The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel. And he would also give a second sign that would be fulfilled immediately: The Lord will bring on you and on your people ... the king of Assyria, who would bring much destruction of the land. Within 10 years Assyria had exiled Israel and destroyed most of Israel and Judah, though Jerusalem (then under Hezekiah) was spared - but that's another story! |
| Isaiah 81-22 Immediate defeat of coalition of Aram + Israel by Assyria - and Judah! |
The Lord said to me, "The wealth of Damascus (Aran) and the plunder of Samaria (Israel) will be carried off by the king of Assyria." But evil Ahaz had rejected the Lord. Therefore the Lord is about to bring against them the mighty floodwaters of the River– the king of Assyria with all his pomp. So Judah would suffer an Assyrian attack that would destroy most of the country. The Lord warned righteous Isaiah not to follow the way of this people. ... Do not fear what they fear, and do not dread it. The Lord Almighty is the one you are to regard as holy, he is the one you are to fear. Similarly today; it seems that by the various skulduggery of evil men and our Parliament's determination to overthrow God's commandments by adding an amendment to the Northern Ireland Executive Bill that allows abortion up to 28 weeks for any reason and a second amendment to allow same-sex marriage. Therefore Almighty God will not allow UK to be released from the EU. But it will not lead to the Remainers forecasted economic prosperity, but to deceit, wickedness and our financial ruin. So let us hear this word, The Lord Almighty is the one you are to regard as holy, he is the one you are to fear. May the Lord God give us his gracious presence and so enable us to stand like the Reformation martyrs. |
| Isaiah 91-7 Birth of Messiah and his coming kingdom |
The people walking in darkness have seen a great light ... Every warrior's boot ... will be destined for burning ... For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David's throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this. The Child Jesus, the Son of God, was born to Mary some 700 years later. But the first task of Christ was to be crucified as our Redeemer. We eagerly await his return to establish his righteous and eternal government. The more history we learn, the greater is our longing for that promised day. |
| Isaiah 98-21 What makes God angry? |
The wicked people of Judah say with pride and arrogance of heart, "The bricks have fallen down, but we will rebuild with dressed stone." They didn't realise the Lord has strengthened Rezin's foes against them and has spurred their enemies on. ... The people have not returned to him who struck them, nor have they sought the Lord Almighty. Then and now foolish men have taught that God is only, always, kind and loving. They refuse to think that the Almighty can also, and rightly, be angry. Isaiah tells us the truth: By the wrath of the Lord Almighty the land will be scorched and the people will be fuel for the fire. At the same time, Amos the prophet up in Israel was telling them the same truth; that it was their God who had sent a series of five natural disasters, "Yet you have not returned to me," declares the Lord. Amos 46-13 |
| Isaiah 101-34 More 'Woes' and promised Restoration |
Woe to those who make unjust laws ... What will you do on the day of reckoning? Woe to the Assyrian ... I send him against a godless nation ... But this is not what he intends ...his purpose is to destroy ... many nations. ... I will punish the king of Assyria for the willful pride of his heart ... For he says: "By the strength of my hand I have done this." Almighty God used Assyria to punish Israel and Judah, but not to destroy them. Assyria went much too far. Later Babylon would do the same. Therefore the Lord Almighty declares that: The Light of Israel will become a fire, their Holy One a flame; in a single day it will burn and consume his thorns and his briers. ... In that day the remnant of Israel the survivors of the house of Jacob ... will truly rely on the Lord, the Holy One of Israel. A remnant will return, a remnant of Jacob will return to the Mighty God. ... O my people who live in Zion, do not be afraid of the Assyrians ... Very soon ... my wrath will be directed to their destruction. Fulfilled 701BC when in anger the Lord killed 185,000 in a single night. Is 3736 And 539BC when Babylon (Belshazzar) was defeated by Darius. Dan 530 Also again in the last days when Babylon falls in a single hour. Rev 188 None is like Jeshurun's God, So great, so strong, so high; Lo! he spreads his wings abroad, He rides upon the sky: Israel is his first-born son; God, the Almighty God, is thine; See him to thy help come down, The excellence divine. |
| Isaiah 111-16 When Messiah is King |
Almighty God reveals to Isaiah his righteous kingdom in the distant future: A shoot will come up from the stump of Jesse; from his roots a Branch will bear fruit. The Spirit of the Lord will rest on him the Spirit of wisdom and of understanding, the Spirit of counsel and of power, the Spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the Lord ... 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. ... The wolf will live with the lamb ... and the lion will eat straw like the ox. ... They will neither harm nor destroy on all my holy mountain, for the earth will be full of the knowledge of the Lord as the waters cover the sea.
What a day that will be !! And that's not all: |
| Isaiah 121-6 In that day you will say: |
"I will praise you, O Lord. Although you were angry with me, your anger has turned away and you have comforted me. Surely God is my salvation; I will trust and not be afraid. The Lord, the Lord, is my strength and my song; he has become my salvation." With joy you will draw water from the wells of salvation. Can 'that day' be now? Today? Yes, indeed it can! But this song is not yet sung throughout Israel. In 'that day' it will be sung by all.
The second part is a missionary song that Israel will sing to the Gentile world: |
In the next 11 chapters Almighty God warns the surrounding nations of the consequence of their wickedness.
What is God saying to the equally wicked nations today?
| Isaiah 13-24 Judgement against nations |
Babylon 131 - 1423
Listen, an uproar among the kingdoms, like nations massing together! The Lord Almighty is mustering an army for war. They come from faraway lands, from the ends of the heavens– the Lord and the weapons of his wrath– to destroy the whole country. Wail, for the day of the Lord is near. ... I will punish the world for its evil, the wicked for their sins. I will put an end to the arrogance of the haughty ... Babylon, the jewel of kingdoms, the glory of the Babylonians' pride, will be overthrown by God like Sodom and Gomorrah ... But desert creatures will lie there. But in contrast Almighty God confirms his promise to Israel: The Lord will have compassion on Jacob; once again he will choose Israel and will settle them in their own land. Assyria 1424-27 I will crush the Assyrian in my land; on my mountains I will trample him down.
Philistines 1428-32
Do not rejoice, all you Philistines, that the rod that struck you is broken ...
Moab 151 - 1614
Ar (and Kir) in Moab is ruined, destroyed in a night! ...
Damascus (Aram) 171-14
See, Damascus will no longer be a city but will become a heap of ruins.
Cush (Sudan, Ethiopia) 181-7
Before the harvest ... he will cut off the shoots with pruning knives, and cut down and take away the spreading branches. ... the birds will feed on them all summer,
the wild animals all winter. At that time gifts will be brought to the Lord Almighty
from a people tall and smooth-skinned, from a people feared far and wide, an aggressive nation of strange speech, whose land is divided by rivers– the gifts will be brought to Mount Zion, the place of the Name of the Lord Almighty.
Egypt 191-25
I will stir up Egyptian against Egyptian ... The Egyptians will lose heart, and I will bring their plans to nothing ... I will hand the Egyptians over to the power of a cruel master ... They will shudder with fear at the uplifted hand that the Lord Almighty raises against them. And the land of Judah will bring terror to the Egyptians.
Egypt and Cush 201-6
Isaiah was instructed to take off his clothing and sandals for 3 years as a sign and portent against Egypt and Cush, so the king of Assyria will lead away stripped and barefoot the Egyptian captives and Cushite exiles. ... Those who trusted in Cush and boasted in Egypt will be afraid and put to shame.
Babylon 211-10
Upon a watchtower I stand, O Lord ... "Fallen, fallen is Babylon; and all the carved images of her gods he has shattered to the ground." Edom 2111,12 "Watchman, what time of the night?" We all need to practice diligent watchfulness. Arabia 2113-17 "Within a year, according to the years of a hired worker, all the glory of Kedar will come to an end. ..."
Jerusalem 221-25
In that day the Lord God of hosts called for weeping and mourning,
Tyre and Sidon 231-18
Wail, O ships of Tarshish, for Tyre is laid waste, without house or harbor! ... Having focussed on the judgement of God and the futility of trusting other nations - the transience of their wealth, military power, treaties and especially of their idols; he wanted the people to redirect their attention to the absolute faithfulness and dependancy of Almighty God. |
| Isaiah 241-23 All wickedness will be judged |
Behold, the Lord will empty the earth and make it desolate ... The earth lies defiled under its inhabitants; for they have transgressed the laws, violated the statutes, broken the everlasting covenant. Therefore a curse devours the earth. ... The earth is utterly broken, the earth is split apart, the earth is violently shaken. Why? Simply the just judgement of God upon the wicked. |
| Isaiah 251 - 2712 God's ultimate plan Israel will blossom |
O Lord, you are my God; I will exalt you; I will praise your name, for you have done wonderful things, plans formed of old, faithful and sure. ... On this mountain the Lord of hosts will ... swallow up death forever; and the Lord God will wipe away tears from all faces, and the reproach of his people he will take away from all the earth, for the Lord has spoken. It will be said on that day, "Behold, this is our God; we have waited for him, that he might save us." Looking at the world today, God reveals the extreme kindness of his plan ! It is so totally undeserved.
In that day this song will be sung in the land of Judah:
In that day the Lord with his hard and great and strong sword |
| Isaiah 281-13 The purpose of judgement |
The proud crown of the drunkards of Ephraim will be trodden underfoot. Assyria was to be the instrument of immediate judgement of God. Only later will his people be restored: In that day the Lord of hosts will be a crown of glory, and a diadem of beauty, to the remnant of his people. But meanwhile drunkenness will make God's word like a foreign language. For by people of strange lips and with a foreign tongue the Lord will speak to this people ... And the word of the Lord will be to them precept upon precept, precept upon precept, line upon line, line upon line, here a little, there a little, that they may go, and fall backward, and be broken, and snared, and taken. Very few would be able to hear clearly. Hezekiah did, but his son Manasseh didn't. And a little later Jeremiah preached God's truth for 40 years and no one listened. Then Babylon would replace Assyria as God's instrument of judgement. |
| Isaiah 2814-29 1st Woe - deaf to the Word |
Therefore hear the word of the Lord, you scoffers, who rule this people in Jerusalem! "Behold, I am the one who has laid as a foundation in Zion, a stone, a tested stone, a precious cornerstone, of a sure foundation: 'Whoever believes will not be in haste.' ... Now therefore do not scoff, lest your bonds be made strong; for I have heard a decree of destruction from the Lord God of hosts against the whole land. Give ear, and hear my voice; give attention, and hear my speech." Deceived men have always thought they know better than the Lord God, and casually discard his Word, or at least the bits they don't like. They choose to reject the Cornerstone (Ps 1818 Math 2142 1Pe 27), and prefer to build upon sand. (Math 2726,27) What does it take for a man to feel the need to call upon the name of the Lord? Or to cry, "Lord, have mercy upon me, a sinner." |
| Isaiah 291-14 2nd Woe - religious hypocrisy |
I will distress Ariel, and there shall be moaning and lamentation ... And you will be brought low. ... In an instant, suddenly, you will be visited by the Lord of hosts with thunder and with earthquake and great noise ... But they will not understand the Word of God. When told to read they will say, "I cannot, for it is sealed. ... I cannot read." And the Lord said: "Because this people draw near with their mouth and honour me with their lips, while their hearts are far from me." |
| Isaiah 2915-44 3rd Woe - trying to deceive God |
Ah, you who hide deep from the Lord your counsel, whose deeds are in the dark, and who say, "Who sees us? Who knows us?" You turn things upside down! How could they think that God is blind to what they did? Yet in the grace and mercy of God a day will come when they realise that it is not God who is blind but it is they themselves! In that day the deaf shall hear the words of a book, and out of their gloom and darkness the eyes of the blind shall see. The meek shall obtain fresh joy in the Lord, and the poor among mankind shall exult in the Holy One of Israel. ... And to emphasise this great truth: Therefore thus says the Lord, who redeemed Abraham, concerning the house of Jacob: "Jacob shall no more be ashamed, no more shall his face grow pale. For when he sees his children, the work of my hands, in his midst, they will sanctify my name; they will sanctify the Holy One of Jacob and will stand in awe of the God of Israel. And those who go astray in spirit will come to understanding, and those who murmur will accept instruction." |
| Isaiah 301-33 4th Woe - stubborn rebellion |
"Ah, stubborn children," declares the Lord, "who carry out a plan, but not mine,
... who seek shelter in the shadow of Egypt!" Egypt's help is worthless and empty. Isaiah was instructed to inscribe this in a book: That it may be for the time to come as a witness forever. For they are a rebellious people, lying children, children unwilling to hear the instruction of the Lord. So Jeremiah had to repeat this warning, but Judah did not take heed. (Jer 4215-22) But again the Lord awaits a day when they would hear and obey: Therefore the Lord waits to be gracious to you, and therefore he exalts himself to show mercy to you. For the Lord is a God of justice; blessed are all those who wait for him. For a people shall dwell in Zion, in Jerusalem; you shall weep no more. He will surely be gracious to you at the sound of your cry. As soon as he hears it, he answers you. And though the Lord give you the bread of adversity and the water of affliction, yet your Teacher will not hide himself anymore, but your eyes shall see your Teacher. And your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, "This is the way, walk in it." |
| Isaiah 311 - 3220 5th Woe - Didn't trust God |
Almighty God had promised to deliver Jerusalem, not Egypt or anyone else. Woe to those who go down to Egypt for help and rely on horses, who trust in chariots because they are many and in horsemen because they are very strong, but do not look to the Holy One of Israel or consult the Lord! Judah needed to learn (the hard way) that: The Lord of hosts will come down to fight on Mount Zion and on its hill. Like birds hovering, so the Lord of hosts will protect Jerusalem; he will protect and deliver it. ... The Assyrian shall fall by a sword, not of man. (See Is 3636) And later in the last days God promises: Behold, a king will reign in righteousness, and princes will rule in justice. ... Then the eyes of those who see will not be closed, and the ears of those who hear will give attention. The heart of the hasty will understand and know, and the tongue of the stammerers will hasten to speak distinctly. The fool will no more be called noble, nor the scoundrel said to be honourable. And after a further warning: Tremble, you women who are at ease, shudder, you complacent ones ... until the Spirit is poured upon us from on high, and the wilderness becomes a fruitful field. Then justice will dwell in the wilderness, and righteousness abide in the fruitful field. And the effect of righteousness will be peace, and the result of righteousness, quietness and trust forever. My people will abide in a peaceful habitation, in secure dwellings, and in quiet resting places. |
| Isaiah 331-24 6th Woe - Israel's enemies |
Ah, you destroyer, ... When you have ceased to destroy, you will be destroyed. But it will be different for Israel. The Lord is exalted, for he dwells on high; he will fill Zion with justice and righteousness, and he will be the stability of your times, abundance of salvation, wisdom, and knowledge; the fear of the Lord is Zion's treasure. ... Your eyes will behold the king in his beauty ... You will see no more the insolent people ... Behold Zion, the city of our appointed feasts! Your eyes will see Jerusalem, an untroubled habitation, an immovable tent, whose stakes will never be plucked up ... But there the Lord in majesty will be for us a place of broad rivers and streams, where no galley with oars can go ... The Lord is our king; he will save us. ... And no inhabitant will say, "I am sick"; the people who dwell there will be forgiven their iniquity. What a day! |
| Isaiah 341-17 Summary of judgement |
Let the earth hear, and all that fills it ... For the Lord is enraged against all the nations, and furious against all their host; he has devoted them to destruction ... the mountains shall flow with their blood ... For my sword ... descends for judgment upon Edom. Edomites are the descendants of Esau, who despised the birthright for a meal. "Jacob I loved, but Esau I hated." Mal 12,3 Ro 913 Edomites are the humanist; proud, independent, macho, no sin, no God, and no heaven! For the Lord has a day of vengeance, a year of recompense for the cause of Zion. Edom despises all desire for God, he hates God's people - whether Jew or Gentile believer. Like Satan, he is the ultimate anti-Semite |
| Isaiah 351-10 Summary of blessing |
The wilderness and the dry land shall be glad; the desert shall rejoice and blossom ... They shall see the glory of the Lord, the majesty of our God. Then the eyes of the blind shall be opened, and the ears of the deaf unstopped; then shall the lame man leap like a deer, and the tongue of the mute sing for joy. For waters break forth in the wilderness, and streams in the desert ... And a highway shall be there, and it shall be called the Way of Holiness ... This is surely a most goodly road. No lion shall be there, nor shall any ravenous beast come up on it; they shall not be found there, but the redeemed shall walk there. And the ransomed of the Lord shall return and come to Zion with singing; everlasting joy shall be upon their heads; they shall obtain gladness and joy, and sorrow and sighing shall flee away. This must rank among the very best chapters in God's Word! If there is ever a time when we feel disappointment, pain, persecution, rejection, despair; and just long for 'that day' - this will surely heal our wounded spirit. |
The next 4 chapters (36-39) reveal the events during the reign of Hezekiah when Assyria attacked Judah in 701 BC.
30 years earlier Assyria threatened Aram (Syria) and Israel who sought help from Judah. But Ahaz, king of Judah, chose to side with the Assyrian king Tiglath-Pileser. Isaiah prophesied against seeking help from any foreign power, said they should trust in the Lord. (See notes above on 311 - 3220 the 5th Woe). In 722 BC Assyria defeated Israel and took them into permanent exile. Now, 20 years later, Assyria's new king Sennacherib attacked Judah.
| Isaiah 361 - 3738 Assyria .v. Judah and God! |
In the fourteenth year of King Hezekiah, Sennacherib king of Assyria came up against all the fortified cities of Judah and took them. And the king of Assyria sent the Rabshakeh from Lachish to King Hezekiah at Jerusalem, with a great army. Since Sennacherib had only sent a field commander, Hezekiah sent a high official and 2 assistants to talk with him. Rabshaketh only knew about power in 'army terms': "Say to Hezekiah, Thus says the great king, the king of Assyria: On what do you rest this trust of yours? Do you think that mere words are strategy and power for war? In whom do you now trust, that you have rebelled against me?" He then ridiculed both Egypt and trusting in Almighty God as a solution. He then arrogantly offered to give Hezekiah 2,000 horses "if you are able on your part to set riders on them." He even claimed, The Lord said to me, "Go up against this land and destroy it." Then in a loud voice so that those on the wall could also hear, "Hear the words of the great king, the king of Assyria! Thus says the king: Do not let Hezekiah deceive you, for he will not be able to deliver you. Do not let Hezekiah make you trust in the Lord by saying, 'The Lord will surely deliver us. This city will not be given into the hand of the king of Assyria.' Do not listen to Hezekiah. For thus says the king of Assyria: Make your peace with me and come out to me. Then each one of you will eat of his own vine, and each one of his own fig tree, and each one of you will drink the water of his own cistern, until I come and take you away to a land like your own land, a land of grain and wine, a land of bread and vineyards. Beware lest Hezekiah mislead you by saying, 'The Lord will deliver us.' Has any of the gods of the nations delivered his land out of the hand of the king of Assyria? Where are the gods of Hamath and Arpad? Where are the gods of Sepharvaim? Have they delivered Samaria out of my hand? Who among all the gods of these lands have delivered their lands out of my hand, that the Lord should deliver Jerusalem out of my hand?" This speech by a loud-mouthed, blasphemous, lying negotiator is quoted in full. When the Jerusalemites heard it they were silent and answered him not a word, for the king's command was, "Do not answer him." A wise anticipated instruction. As soon as King Hezekiah heard it, he tore his clothes and covered himself with sackcloth and went into the house of the Lord. And he sent his team to see Isaiah with the words, This day is a day of distress, of rebuke, and of disgrace ... It may be that the Lord your God will hear the words of the Rabshakeh, whom his master the king of Assyria has sent to mock the living God.
Isaiah replies with an assuring word, "Thus says the Lord: 'Do not be afraid because of the words that you have heard, with which the young men of the king of Assyria have reviled me. Behold, I will put a spirit in him, so that he shall hear a rumour and return to his own land, and I will make him fall by the sword in his own land.'"
Our leaders and negotiators should have read this whole story before going to Brussels. It would have been very instructive - And the outcome very different. |
| Isaiah 381-22 Sickness and recovery and a sign |
In those days Hezekiah became sick and was at the point of death. And Isaiah the prophet the son of Amoz came to him, and said to him, "Thus says the Lord: Set your house in order, for you shall die, you shall not recover." But Hezekiah pleaded with God and wept bitterly. Then the word of the Lord came to Isaiah: "Go and say to Hezekiah, Thus says the Lord, the God of David your father: I have heard your prayer; I have seen your tears. Behold, I will add fifteen years to your life. The Lord also repeated his promise to defend Jerusalem. And gave him an extraordinary sign: "Behold, I will make the shadow cast by the declining sun on the dial of Ahaz turn back ten steps." So the sun turned back on the dial the ten steps by which it had declined. |
| Isaiah 391-8 Hezekiah and the king of Babylon |
The king of Babylon's son sent envoys with letters and a present to Hezekiah, for he heard that he had been sick and had recovered. What else did he want and expect? Hezekiah unwisely shows him all the expensive treasures of Judah. Behold, the days are coming, when all that is in your house, and that which your fathers have stored up till this day, shall be carried to Babylon. On this occasion Hezekiah's response to the prophecy was uncharacteristically selfish: "The word of the Lord that you have spoken is good." For he thought, "There will be peace and security in my days." There was. But his son Manasseh was a most evil king. |
Having declared the penalty for sin; the remainder of the book of Isaiah is the almost unbroken blessing of Almighty God upon his people. Apart from 9, 12 and 35, it is thus not surprising that it is the most widely read and popular section.
There are 3 major sections:
1. Deliverance from Babylon 401 - 4822 (Note: Babylon was not even a major power in Isaiah's day)
2. Deliverance from sin 491 - 5721
3. Deliverance in the end 581 - 6624
| Isaiah 401-5 God's plan for his people |
Comfort, comfort my people, says your God. Speak tenderly to Jerusalem, and cry to her that her warfare is ended, that her iniquity is pardoned, that she has received from the Lord's hand double for all her sins. Pardon does not mean that we automatically and instantly lose the results of sin. The convicted burglar who repents still has to serve his sentence. Wickedness often leaves its mark, even when totally forgiven. Israel was exiled by the Romans 2,000 years ago for rejecting their Messiah; now they have to fight to regain their God-given land. When the Jews returned from Babylon after 50 years exile (586 to 536BC), there was significant opposition to rebuilding the Temple and later the walls. But the day will come when the world's hatred of the Jews will end; and there will be lasting peace when Jesus the Saviour returns as King. Jesus told 4 stories about how we must be ready for his return in Math 24,25. Now A voice cries: "In the wilderness prepare the way of the Lord ..." How did John Baptist, the greatest prophet, prepare the way? "Repent, for the kingdom of God is near." Math 32 Jesus began his ministry with the same instruction. Math 417 To be ready the world still needs to hear this Word. For without repentance there is no forgiveness of sin, no comfort, no peace. And without the Cross there is no escaping the punishment we deserve. Only by what Jesus has done for us can Every valley shall be lifted up, and every mountain and hill be made low; the uneven ground shall become level, and the rough places a plain. And the glory of the Lord shall be revealed ... Only then will our natural sinfulness be reversed to natural righteousness. |
| Isaiah 406-31 The greatness of God |
The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God will stand forever. Man is often unable to keep his word, even if he really wants to. But Almighty God always keeps his word - for good or bad! Behold, the Lord God comes with might, ... He will tend his flock like a shepherd; he will gather the lambs in his arms. Our God has mighty power, but also endearing tenderness and care. Almighty God has measured the waters in the hollow of his hand and marked off the heavens with a span. All the earth's great oceans and the distant galaxies. He also designed and made all the tiny sub-atomic particles. Behold, the nations are like a drop from a bucket ... The world's nuclear powers grossly overestimate their strength. Have you not understood ... he who sits above the circle of the earth ... brings princes to nothing. (All earth's great empires are like chaff! Dan 235,44) He who brings out their host by number, calling them all by name; by the greatness of his might and because he is strong in power, not one is missing. God's greatness does not discard the small or the insignificant. Each and everyone is named and infinitely precious. (Also 431) The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He does not faint or grow weary; his understanding is unsearchable. He gives power to the, faint, and to him who has no might he increases strength. In heaven neither God or his people will ever grow old and easily tired! They who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint. Almighty God is so glad to always share his abundant strength. All this is but a part of the greatness of God, our most gracious Redeemer. |
| Isaiah 411-20 God intends good to Israel |
First, all other nations should recognise the power of the Lord God is to support Israel - and he has abundant power to do so. Listen to me in silence, O coastlands ... I, the Lord, the first, and with the last; I am he. ... The coastlands have seen and are afraid. But you, Israel, my servant, Jacob, whom I have chosen, the offspring of Abraham, my friend; you whom I took from the ends of the earth, and called from its farthest corners, saying to you, "You are my servant, I have chosen you and not cast you off"; fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. God's intentions towards Israel have never changed; even when they rejected him and rebelled against him his promise was always to one day restore and reconcile. How can the Christian church be so blind to this repeated word? "Do not be afraid, O worm Jacob, O little Israel, for I myself will help you," declares the Lord, "your Redeemer is the Holy One of Israel. ..." In the eyes of the world, Israel will always be considered 'a worm'; but not in the sight of Almighty God, who see all. Israel, 'the promised land' is little; similar in size to Wales! When the poor and needy seek water, and there is none, and their tongue is parched with thirst, I the Lord will answer them; I the God of Israel will not forsake them. ... I will make the wilderness a pool of water, and the dry land springs of water. I will set in the desert the cypress, the plane and the pine together, that they may see and know, ... that the hand of the Lord has done this. But even then, will the world see that the hand of God has done this? The Lord will give them the opportunity to see his plan for Israel, but Zech 12 and 14 reveals that they will be blinded by wickedness. |
| Isaiah 4121-29 False gods have no power |
Almighty God mocks those who worship false gods: Bring in your idols to tell us what is going to happen. ... See, they are all false! Their deeds amount to nothing; their images are but wind and confusion. They cannot reveal the truth or the future; they only deceive. |
| Isaiah 421-9 Messiah is also 'Servant' |
This is the first of the 'Servant Songs'. (others 491-13 504-11 and 5213 - 5312) They reveal that the Messiah, Jesus, was willing to become human flesh in order to bring salvation to man. Though God declared, "You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased." Lu 322 Jesus was heard because of his reverent submission. Although he was a son, he learned obedience from what he suffered. Heb 57,8 Thus the Son of God was also the Servant of God. Here is my servant, whom I uphold, my chosen one in whom I delight; I will put my Spirit on him and he will bring justice to the nations. ... A bruised reed he will not break, and a smoldering wick he will not snuff out. In faithfulness he will bring forth justice; he will not falter or be discouraged till he establishes justice on earth. ... God's justice is very different from man's. God's justice demands that all sin must be punished; it cannot just be ignored and forgiven. Without the Cross there is no forgiveness of sin. The wages of sin is death. There has to be both a perfect sacrifice and repentance and belief by the sinner. "I, the Lord, have called you in righteousness; ... to open eyes that are blind, to free captives from prison and to release from the dungeon those who sit in darkness." Because the Lord is righteous, he alone can set us free and satisfy God's justice. There are many songs in scripture. This is one of the best! |
| Isaiah 4210-17 Singing is heard! |
Sing to the Lord a new song, his praise from the ends of the earth ... Let them give glory to the Lord and proclaim his praise in the islands. ... I will lead the blind by ways they have not known, along unfamiliar paths I will guide them; I will turn the darkness into light before them and make the rough places smooth. These are the things I will do; I will not forsake them. |
| Isaiah 4218-25 But Israel was blind |
"Hear, you deaf; look, you blind, and see! ... You have seen many things, but have paid no attention; your ears are open, but you hear nothing." All down the ages Almighty God has sent many prophets. But sadly men have had to pay the price for choosing to ignore them. He even ensured that their words were recorded for everyone to read the historical accuracy and be able to heed the warnings. Which of you will listen to this or pay close attention in time to come? Judah did not listen. So the Lord God poured out on them his burning anger, the violence of war. It enveloped them in flames, yet they did not understand; it consumed them, but they did not take it to heart. Judah was far from being alone in this. The deaf, heedless world today has never been in greater danger. For all such men there will come a day of huge, maybe eternal, regret. |
| Isaiah 431 - 4525 God has never cancelled his promise to Israel |
Although God has to punish Israel for their wickedness, he reminds his people that his covenant with Abraham and his descendants is unconditional and eternal. But now, this is what the Lord says– he who created you, O Jacob, he who formed you, O Israel: "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 ... For I am the Lord, your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Saviour." Many Gentile believers who rightly rejoice in these words, forget or do not realise that the Lord primarily said them to his people Israel for they continue with the promise: Do not be afraid, for I am with you; I will bring your children from the east and gather you from the west. I will say to the north, 'Give them up!' and to the south, 'Do not hold them back.' Bring my sons from afar and my daughters from the ends of the earth. A limited allegory for Gentiles is justified, but they clearly refer to the practical return of the Jews to their land after being exiled, first by Babylon, then by Rome. The Lord continues: "You are my witnesses," declares the Lord, "and my servant whom I have chosen, so that you may know and believe me and understand that I am he. ... I, even I, am the Lord, and apart from me there is no saviour. ... When I act, who can reverse it?" After 2,000 years of Roman exile, the current return of half the world's Jews to Israel is a profound and true witness to the faithfulness of Almighty God. No one can reverse it, though many continue to try. This is what the Lord says– your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel: "For your sake I will send to Babylon and bring down as fugitives all the Babylonians ... and they lay there, never to rise again, extinguished, snuffed out like a wick:" Mighty Babylon became a mound of sand till discovered in the 20th C. And now the Almighty says to Israel: "Yet you have not called upon me, O Jacob ... But you have burdened me with your sins. ..." Although God reminds them: I, even I, am he who blots out your transgressions, for my own sake, and remembers your sins no more. He also has to tell them: I will consign Jacob to destruction. - For a season. Again and again he reminds them that a new day is coming: "But now listen, O Jacob, my servant, Israel, whom I have chosen." This is what the Lord says– "He who made you, who formed you in the womb, and who will help you: Do not be afraid, O Jacob, my servant, Jeshurun, whom I have chosen." For I will pour water on the thirsty land, and streams on the dry ground; I will pour out my Spirit on your offspring, and my blessing on your descendants. O Israel, I will not forget you. I have swept away your offenses like a cloud, your sins like the morning mist. Return to me, for I have redeemed you." ... "This is what the Lord says– your Redeemer, who formed you in the womb: I am the Lord, who has made all things ... who says of Jerusalem, 'It shall be inhabited,' of the towns of Judah, 'They shall be built,' and of their ruins, 'I will restore them.'" The Lord did achieve all this, and more, when the Jews returned from Babylon. And he will do so again today as they return from all over the world. For the sake of Jacob my servant, of Israel my chosen, I summon you by name and bestow on you a title of honour, though you do not acknowledge me. I am the Lord, and there is no other; apart from me there is no God. I will strengthen you, though you have not acknowledged me, so that from the rising of the sun to the place of its setting men may know there is none besides me. I am the Lord, and there is no other. ... Before me every knee will bow. All who have raged against him will come to him and be put to shame. But in the Lord all the descendants of Israel will be found righteous and will exult. |
| Isaiah 461 - 4822 Babylon is judged |
What was the most grievous sin of Babylon? "Sit in silence, go into darkness, Daughter of the Babylonians; no more will you be called queen of kingdoms. I was angry with my people and desecrated my inheritance; I gave them into your hand, and you showed them no mercy. ... You said, 'I will continue forever– the eternal queen!'" But you did not consider these things or reflect on what might happen. Babylon also said of herself: 'I am, and there is none besides me. I will never be a widow or suffer the loss of children.' Both of these will overtake you in a moment, on a single day: loss of children and widowhood. Fulfilled in 536 BC. Although destroyed, the spirit of Babylon will rise again in the last days. Rev 182-10 See what God thinks about world blasphemy, wickedness and arrogance. What instructions from the Lord does Isaiah give to the nation? "Listen to me, O Jacob, Israel, whom I have called: I am he; I am the first and I am the last. My own hand laid the foundations of the earth, and my right hand spread out the heavens ... Leave Babylon, flee from the Babylonians!" ... Say, "The Lord has redeemed his servant Jacob." ... "There is no peace," says the Lord, "for the wicked." Do you wonder why there cannot be peace on the earth? |
| Isaiah 491-26 Israel will be a witness to God's faithfulness |
Before I was born the Lord called me ... He said to me, "You are my servant, Israel, in whom I will display my splendour ... to bring Jacob back to him and gather Israel to himself ... I will also make you a light for the Gentiles, that you may bring my salvation to the ends of the earth." To achieve this, the heart of Israel must first be changed. Only then will they see it will be because of the Lord, who is faithful, the Holy One of Israel, who has chosen you. As yet, very few Gentiles become believers in Christ because they see God's faithfulness to his people Israel. But the day will come. Indeed, the day has come when we can see God is fulfilling his word: I will keep you and will make you to be a covenant for the people, to restore the land and to reassign its desolate inheritances. ... See, they will come from afar – For the Lord comforts his people and will have compassion on his afflicted ones. ... Then all mankind will know that I, the Lord, am your Saviour, your Redeemer, the Mighty One of Jacob. Today ~1% of Jews in Israel believe in Christ crucified. But the %age is growing! |
| Isaiah 501-11 The Servant's claim |
The Sovereign Lord has given me an instructed tongue, to know the word that sustains the weary. He wakens me morning by morning, wakens my ear to listen like one being taught. The Sovereign Lord has opened my ears, and I have not been rebellious. Such is the grace and mercy of Jesus; that he reveals his truth to all who seek him. He sent all the prophets and told them what to write, that we may learn. Many servants have had to suffer, disgraced on earth but honoured in heaven. |
| Isaiah 511-16 Everlasting salvation |
In this world we are surrounded by chaos, uncertainty and evil. Where, or in whom can we have a secure hope, peace and righteousness? The Lord Almighty tells us! "Listen to me, you who pursue righteousness and who seek the Lord: Look to the rock from which you were cut ..." "Listen to me, my people; ... my justice will become a light to the nations. My righteousness draws near speedily, my salvation is on the way ... The heavens will vanish like smoke, the earth will wear out like a garment ... But my salvation will last forever, my righteousness will never fail. Do not fear the reproach of men or be terrified by their insults. ... 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. ... For I am the Lord your God, who churns up the sea so that its waves roar– the Lord Almighty is his name. I have put my words in your mouth and covered you with the shadow of my hand– I who set the heavens in place, who laid the foundations of the earth, and who say to Zion, 'You are my people.' " These words of God give us the one true answer; there is no other. There will be persecution, the earth's resources will run out, war will continue, and wickedness will seem to triumph - But the Lord Almighty is our Rock. And he says, 'You are my people.' Nothing and no one can thwart his declared plan and covenant. |
| Isaiah 5117 - 5212 Senseless Israel told to wake up |
Awake, awake! Rise up, O Jerusalem, you who have drunk from the hand of the Lord the cup of his wrath. Israel had been under God's just judgement; but didn't realise it. Other prophecies reveal that one day she would understand and repent. Then your Sovereign Lord says, your God, who defends his people: "See, I have taken out of your hand the cup that made you stagger; from that cup, the goblet of my wrath, you will never drink again." Again and again the generous grace of God is seen. For this is what the Lord says: "You were sold for nothing, and without money you will be redeemed. ... At first my people went down to Egypt to live; lately, Assyria has oppressed them. and those who rule them mock. All day long my name is constantly blasphemed. Therefore my people will know my name. While we await the final fulfillment of this, in every generation the word of God brings the good news of his offer of salvation and victory over sin. How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation, who say to Zion, "Your God reigns!" What they say is not vague political promise; but has the seal of God's certain truth. The Lord will lay bare his holy arm in the sight of all the nations, and all the ends of the earth will see the salvation of our God. How will this come to pass? Isaiah now reveals what many think is foolishness, but is the plan of God - his Son, his Holy Servant must suffer to save us. Even the apostles and the followers of Jesus found this difficult to believe. Math 1621-23 Lu 2425-27 1 Co 118-25 |
| Isaiah 5213 - 5312 God as a Servant-Messiah Suffers to save |
Here is shown the greatest treasure ever revealed to man. Christ crucified and risen from the dead, our longing hearts redeemed and reconciled. Jesus would fulfill this prophecy some 700 years later and cry "It is finished". His perfect sacrifice was completed. No man even remotely deserves this redemption; God's mercy only comes by his infinite grace. How? He now reveals the truth to Isaiah:
Behold, my servant shall act wisely; he shall be high and lifted up ...
First, Jesus was willing to have a human birth in a Bethlehem stable, not a palace.
The next great surprise was that he had to be smitten by God, and afflicted.
All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned—every one—to his own way.
God's restoration plan is revealed by his prophet Isaiah:
And that is not all. Today he lives to continually intercede for us. Heb 725 |
| Isaiah 541-17 God's enduring plan for Israel |
"Sing, O barren one, who did not bear ... Enlarge the place of your tent ... Fear not, for you will not be ashamed; be not confounded, for you will not be disgraced. ... For your Maker is your husband, the Lord of hosts is his name; and the Holy One of Israel is your Redeemer ... For a brief moment I deserted you, but with great compassion I will gather you. In overflowing anger for a moment I hid my face from you, but with everlasting love I will have compassion on you," says the Lord, your Redeemer. The Lord God could not let Israel's rebellion go unpunished. The northern tribes of Israel would be exiled by Assyria in 722 BC and Judah would go to Babylon in 586 BC But Isaiah reveals that God would not finish with the Jews; not in the days of Isaiah, nor Jeremiah, nor today. O afflicted one, storm-tossed and not comforted, behold, I will set your stones in antimony, and lay your foundations with sapphires. I will make your pinnacles of agate, your gates of carbuncles, and all your wall of precious stones. All your children shall be taught by the Lord, and great shall be the peace of your children. In righteousness you shall be established. Furthermore - and forever, this truth will stand: Behold ... no weapon that is fashioned against you shall succeed ... This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord. Evil men may kill God's chosen people, (Hitler's holocaust destroyed 6 million), and soon all the world under 'the Beast' will attack Jerusalem, All men will suffer greatly (Dan 721,24 824,25), but the attackers will not succeed - Jesus Christ will return !! (Rev 1919-21 Zech 12,14) Then the Jews, with Gentile believers, will be the promised righteous kingdom, established to last for ever by the eternal and gracious Lord. This is our sure and certain heritage of all who believe and trust in Jrsus. |
| Isaiah 551-13 The most gracious Invitation |
Come, everyone who thirsts, come to the waters; and he who has no money, come, buy and eat! Come, buy wine and milk without money and without price. How can anyone buy without money or without bartering? Because someone else paid the price - with His life! The Lord then asks all men a most pertinent question: Why do you spend your money for that which is not bread, and your labour for that which does not satisfy? Men strive for happiness, wealth, fame, popularity, health ... Few find it, but the Lord then asks them, "What will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his soul?" Math 1626 So returning to the invitation, he says: Incline your ear, and come to me; hear, that your soul may live; and I will make with you an everlasting covenant. ... Seek the Lord while he may be found; call upon him while he is near. Clearly he tells us that it is not our body that needs to be satisfied, but our soul. For the body must soon die, but the soul continues. There is also a warning here. There will come a day when it is too late, The invitation will be withdrawn. At that time the 'great gulf' fixed between man and Almighty God will then make it impossible to hear him. So while there is still opportunity: Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts. Let him return to the Lord, ... to our God, for he will abundantly pardon. God's invitation is free in that there is nothing we can do to earn his forgiveness, but he does insist upon our admission of guilt, and a willingness to repent. This is a long way from what men normally think. We need to admit the truth that the Lord declares: My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways. Isaiah likens the invitation and all the word of the Lord, to rain that waters the earth. It causes the earth and the soul of man to flourish and become righteous. It will achieve the purpose for which the Lord so graciously sent it. |
| Isaiah 561-8 Salvation for foreigners |
What does the Lord say to Gentile believers? Let not the foreigner who has joined himself to the Lord say, "The Lord will surely separate me from his people ... I will give them an everlasting name that shall not be cut off. ... These I will bring to my holy mountain, and make them joyful in my house of prayer." God's revealed plan is to give us a place alongside his chosen people. |
| Isaiah 571-13 The plight of Idolaters c.f. the righteous |
The Lord questions the wicked: Whom did you dread and fear, so that you lied, and did not remember me? ... And then declares his verdict: When you cry out, let your collection of idols deliver you! But he who takes refuge in me shall possess the land and shall inherit my holy mountain. |
| Isaiah 5714-21 With whom is the Lord pleased to dwell? |
For thus says the One who is high and lifted up, who inhabits eternity, whose name is Holy: "I dwell in the high and holy place, and also with him who is of a contrite and lowly spirit, to revive the spirit of the lowly, and to revive the heart of the contrite." "But the wicked are like the tossing sea; There is no peace," says my God, "for the wicked." The world craves for peace and security, and wonders why it is so elusive. Satan delights in all forms of war, suffering and death. Only when with the Lord God can fallen man enjoy life and fulfillment. |
| Isaiah 581-14 The problem of compromise |
Jesus said, "No servant is able to serve two masters; ... You cannot serve God and mammon." Lu 1613 Today some think they are Christians because they go to church once on Sunday, yet spend the rest of their time in worldly pursuits. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind. Ro 122 God's word in Isaiah's day was: Declare to my people their transgression ... yet they seek me daily. ... Behold, in the day of your fast you seek your own pleasure. God has always expected his children to be wholeheartedly for him. Is not this the fast that I choose: to loose the bonds of wickedness ... Is it not to share your bread with the hungry ... when you see the naked, to cover him ... If you turn back ... from doing your pleasure on my holy day, and call the Sabbath a delight ... if you honour it, not going your own ways, or seeking your own pleasure, or talking idly; then you shall take delight in the Lord. With the Lord it is all or nothing. He does not want just 'our Sundays and the dog-ends of our time'. He does not want our token gifts. See Lu 211-4 His desire is for us completely, to share all that we have and are; the very opposite of selfishness and greed. On the Cross Jesus withheld nothing. |
| Isaiah 591-21 Sin separates but ... |
Men may complain at the extent of wickedness and calamities, but it is not because God is unwilling or unable to change them. Behold, the Lord's hand is not shortened, that it cannot save, or his ear dull, that it cannot hear; but your iniquities have made a separation between you and your God, and your sins have hidden his face from you so that he does not hear. ... your lips have spoken lies ... their thoughts are thoughts of iniquity ... they have made their roads crooked ... we moan and moan like doves; we hope for justice, but there is none; for salvation, but it is far from us. ... Justice is turned back, and righteousness stands far away ... Truth is lacking ... The Lord saw it, and it displeased him.
Is there any solution to this? Yes! |
| Isaiah 601-22 Messiah will lighten the darkness |
Isaiah reveals the blessing that repentance will bring to repentant Israel. Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you. For behold, darkness shall cover the earth, and thick darkness the peoples; but the Lord will arise upon you, and his glory will be seen upon you. In that day the nation of Israel will reveal the glory of the Lord. It will be so good that: Nations shall come to your light, and kings to the brightness of your rising. ... And to the Holy One of Israel, because he has made you beautiful. ... All who despised you shall bow down at your feet; they shall call you the City of the Lord, the Zion of the Holy One of Israel ... And you shall know that I, the Lord, am your Saviour and your Redeemer, the Mighty One of Jacob. ... Violence shall no more be heard in your land, devastation or destruction within your borders; you shall call your walls Salvation, and your gates Praise. The sun shall be no more your light by day, ... but the Lord will be your everlasting light, and your God will be your glory ... Your people shall all be righteous; they shall possess the land forever, the branch of my planting, the work of my hands, that I might be glorified. I am the Lord; in its time I will hasten it. Almighty God revealed this glorious truth 2,700 years ago. Soon, very soon, it will all be fulfilled! Let us remember this covenant of God when the world seems so dark. |
| Isaiah 611-11 Favour or vengeance |
Jesus read this portion of the scroll of Isaiah in the Nazareth synagogue. The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me, because the Lord has anointed me to bring good news to the poor; he has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to those who are bound; to proclaim the year of the Lord's favour ... Then he stopped reading and said, "Today this Scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing." Lu 421 He stopped there because that was the day this prophecy was fulfilled. God's favour upon men was to become their Redeemer on the Cross. But the revelation to Isaiah continued: And the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all who mourn. These would both be fulfilled at a later date. This day we still await; the day when all Israel will be saved, the day when he would give them: the oil of gladness instead of mourning, the garment of praise instead of a faint spirit; that they may be called oaks of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that he may be glorified. ... The day when all the world would see what the Lord had done for Israel when: You shall be called the priests of the Lord; they shall speak of you as the ministers of our God; you shall eat the wealth of the nations ... The response of Israel's prophet is not surprising: I will greatly rejoice in the Lord; my soul shall exult in my God, for he has clothed me with the garments of salvation; he has covered me with the robe of righteousness. ... The Lord God will cause righteousness and praise to sprout up before all the nations. |
| Isaiah 631-6 Vengeance |
Almighty God returns to earth to destroy the evil Antichrist and all his followers. "Who is this ... in crimsoned garments?" "It is I, speaking in righteousness, mighty to save. ... I have trodden the winepress alone, ... I trod them in my anger ... and I poured out their lifeblood on the earth." |
| Isaiah 637-19 God remembers his covenant |
All Israel's history is a continuous roller-coaster of wickedness and repentance, of idol worship and obedience, of sin and forgiveness. I will recount the steadfast love of the Lord, the praises of the Lord ... In all their affliction he was afflicted. And he became their Saviour. ... But they rebelled and grieved his Holy Spirit; therefore he turned to be their enemy. ... Then he remembered the days of old, of Moses and his people. |
| Isaiah 641-12 The Longing |
Isaiah proclaims the longing of many down the ages: Oh that you would rend the heavens and come down, ... to make your name known to your adversaries, and that the nations might tremble at your presence! Behold, you were angry, and we sinned ... all our righteous deeds are like a polluted garment. ... There is no one who calls upon your name. Behold, please look, we are all your people. Your holy cities have become a wilderness; Zion has become a wilderness, Jerusalem a desolation. It was not only Israel's enemies that needed to tremble, but also Jerusalem. How can any man see the need to turn to the Lord and be saved? The next chapter provides a clear answer. |
| Isaiah 651-16 The clear alternatives - again! |
Salvation is firstly all by the grace of God who says: I was ready to be sought by those who did not ask for me ... I spread out my hands all the day to a rebellious people ... Then men who are willing to repent and seek the mercy of God. I will bring forth offspring from Jacob ... my people who have sought me. To others who refuse the invitation and make a different choice: But you who forsake the Lord, who forget my holy mountain I will destine you to the sword. Because, when I called, you did not answer; when I spoke, you did not listen, but you did what was evil in my eyes and chose what I did not delight in. Therefore thus says the Lord God: "Behold, my servants shall eat, but you shall be hungry ... Behold, my servants shall rejoice, but you shall be put to shame. |
| Isaiah 6517-25 A New Creation |
Man has made a huge mess of this world and abused all the resources. It seems that Almighty God will have to create something new and different. For behold, I create new heavens and a new earth, and the former things shall not be remembered or come into mind. "Behold, I create Jerusalem to be a joy, and her people to be a gladness. ... No more shall be heard in it the sound of weeping ... They shall plant vineyards and eat their fruit ... Like the days of a tree shall the days of my people be ... They shall be the offspring of the blessed of the Lord ... Before they call I will answer ... The wolf and the lamb shall graze together ... They shall not hurt or destroy in all my holy mountain," says the Lord. Such continuous paradise is hard to imagine; but it is true. This cannot be in greater contrast to the final judgement of God by fire. |
| Isaiah 661-14 What does God see? Who does he delight in? |
Puny man is so limited. Consider all the universe of billions of light-years. Thus says the Lord: "Heaven is my throne, and the earth is my footstool. But this is the one to whom I will look: he who is humble and contrite in spirit and trembles at my word." Each of these qualities are rare (and always have been). even within the church, and especially its leaders. It leads to a sad conclusion; Because when I called, no one answered, when I spoke, they did not listen; but they did what was evil in my eyes and chose that in which I did not delight. Such men 'pick and mix' the scriptures to suit what they think, or what is popular. There is little wisdom, because there is little fear of the Lord, or his word. However, there are also a few notable and valuable exceptions. These alone are instructed: "Rejoice with Jerusalem, and be glad for her, all you who love her; rejoice with her in joy, all you who mourn over her ... that you may drink deeply with delight from her glorious abundance." For thus says the Lord: "Behold, I will extend peace to her like a river, and the glory of the nations like an overflowing stream. |
| Isaiah 6615-24 Final judgement at the end |
"For behold, the Lord will come in fire, and his chariots like the whirlwind ... For by fire will the Lord enter into judgment, and by his sword, with all flesh; and those slain by the Lord shall be many. ... For their worm shall not die, their fire shall not be quenched, and they shall be an abhorrence to all flesh." All men need to take heed to this warning from the Lord Almighty.
In conclusion, as always, the Lord says what he means and means what he says. |
Jeremiah The weeping prophet, with a burning heart [Contents]
| Jer 11-10 The word of the Lord came to him ... |
The book opens with the most important fact; Almighty God revealed his word to his chosen prophet in Jerusalem for 40 years; so they were without any excuse. And the same goes for UK today. We've had Scriptures in English for 5 centuries. Jeremiah was not chosen when the Lord saw his character as a young man, but the Lord formed him to be so special when he was still in his mother's womb. He was chosen before being born! When Jeremiah said that he was not able to be a prophet, the Lord naturally over-ruled his complaint and assured him his choice was not a mistake, and declared, "Now, I have put my words in your mouth. See, today I appoint you over nations and kingdoms to uproot and tear down, to destroy and overthrow, to build and to plant." So Jeremiah's life as God's spokesman began. It would not be easy or popular. He was appointed to both destroy and to build. God's Word was to be for both Jews and the Gentile nations; for every generation over the next 2,600 years. Yet today few sermons are based upon this great prophet, and sadly few choose to read this unpopular, but most relevant book. God had made Jeremiah sensitive, brave, and determined. Tears and persecution did not deter God's obedient servant. He would soon experienced the fulfilment of God's promise of protection. |
| Jer 111-19 A pair of visions |
The first prophetic 'Words' that God gave to Jeremiah were two visions. The word of the Lord came to me: "What do you see, Jeremiah?" "I see the branch of an almond tree," I replied. The Lord said to me, "You have seen correctly, for I am watching to see that my word is fulfilled." God confirms that Jeremiah saw an Almond tree branch correctly. Significance? In Hebrew Almond = 'saqed' and watch = 'saqad'. Many then (and now) think Almighty God does not see the affairs of men. And even if he does see, what does it matter?! But God is watching, he knows all our inmost thoughts. Prov 153 All sin has natural consequences. In God's justice the wages of sin is death! This remains true for nations as well as individuals. God's 'watching' does not suggest he will do nothing, quite the reverse. He is watching to ensure that his prophetic word is fulfilled.
In the second vision we are shown the consequences of God's 'watching'. |
| Jer 21 - 35 In careful Hebrew poetry Jeremiah reveals to Judah how God sees the disastrous state of his people. |
I remember the devotion of your youth, how as a bride you loved me ...
Israel was holy to the Lord, the firstfruits of his harvest ... This is what the Lord says: "What fault did your fathers find in me, that they strayed so far from me? They followed worthless idols and became worthless themselves. ... I brought you into a fertile land to eat its fruit and rich produce. But you came and defiled my land and made my inheritance detestable. The priests did not ask, 'Where is the Lord?' Those who deal with the law did not know me; the leaders rebelled against me. The prophets prophesied by Baal, following worthless idols. ... But my people have exchanged their Glory for worthless idols. Be appalled at this, O heavens, and shudder with great horror," declares the Lord. "My people have committed two sins: They have forsaken me, the spring of living water, and have dug their own cisterns, broken cisterns that cannot hold water. ... Consider then and realize how evil and bitter it is for you when you forsake the Lord your God and have no awe of me," declares the Lord, the Lord Almighty. ... "I had planted you like a choice vine of sound and reliable stock. How then did you turn against me into a corrupt, wild vine? Although you wash yourself with soda and use an abundance of soap, the stain of your guilt is still before me," declares the Sovereign Lord. ... "They have turned their backs to me and not their faces; yet when they are in trouble, they say, 'Come and save us!' Where then are the gods you made for yourselves? Let them come if they can save you when you are in trouble!" declares the Lord ... "In vain I punished your people; they did not respond to correction. ... You say, 'I am innocent; he is not angry with me.' But I will pass judgment on you because you say, 'I have not sinned.' ... You will be disappointed by Egypt as you were by Assyria. ... for the Lord has rejected those you trust; you will not be helped by them. ... You have defiled the land with your prostitution and wickedness. Therefore the showers have been withheld, and no spring rains have fallen. Yet you have the brazen look of a prostitute; you refuse to blush with shame."
What pathos! How deeply was God disappointed with his chosen people. |
| Jer 36-22 God compares Israel and Judah |
During the reign of King Josiah, the Lord said to me, "Have you seen what faithless Israel has done? She has gone up on every high hill and under every spreading tree and has committed adultery there. ... Because Israel's immorality mattered so little to her, she defiled the land and committed adultery with stone and wood. In spite of all this, her unfaithful sister Judah did not return to me with all her heat, but only in pretense," declares the Lord. ... "Return, faithless people," declares the Lord, "for I am your husband. ... With the faithful Lord God there is no divorce.
But when would ‘that time’ be? How many years would they be exiled? |
| Jer 43-6 The only remedy + a warning |
This is what the Lord says to the men of Judah and to Jerusalem: "Break up your unplowed ground and do not sow among thorns. Circumcise yourselves to the Lord, circumcise your hearts, you men of Judah and people of Jerusalem, or my wrath will break out and burn like fire because of the evil you have done– burn with no one to quench it. ... Sound the trumpet throughout the land! ... For I am bringing disaster from the north, even terrible destruction." |
| Jer 412-18 The warning intensifies. |
Now I pronounce my judgments against them. Look! He advances like the clouds, his chariots come like a whirlwind, his horses are swifter than eagles. Woe to us! We are ruined! O Jerusalem, wash the evil from your heart and be saved. How long will you harbor wicked thoughts? ... A besieging army is coming from a distant land, raising a war cry against the cities of Judah. ... because she has rebelled against me," declares the Lord. |
| Jer 419-31 Jeremiah begins to weep over the stupidity of Jerusalem. It would be so much easier to be silent. |
Oh, the agony of my heart! My heart pounds within me, I cannot keep silent. ... How long must I see the battle standard and hear the sound of the trumpet? They are skilled in doing evil ... I looked, and the fruitful land was a desert ... This is what the LORD says: “The whole land will be ruined. Also 1417 |
| Jer 51-17 The extent to which the people sinned and their refusal to see anything wrong was staggering. |
Go up and down the streets of Jerusalem, look around and consider, search through her squares. If you can find but one person who deals honestly and seeks the truth, I will forgive this city. ... But They made their faces harder than stone and refused to repent. So I will go to the leaders and speak to them; But with one accord they too had broken off the yoke ... (of God) for their rebellion is great and their backslidings many. ... They have lied about the Lord; they said, "He will do nothing! No harm will come to us; we will never see sword or famine. ... Therefore this is what the Lord God Almighty says: "I am bringing a distant nation against you ... They will devour your daughters ... your flocks and herds ... With the sword they will destroy the fortified cities in which you trust." |
| Jer 518 "Yet the mercy of God is great |
'Yet' - one little word. "Yet even in those days," declares the Lord, "I will not destroy you completely." |
| Jer 530,31 Compromise is always popular. |
"A horrible and shocking thing has happened in the land: The prophets prophesy lies, the priests rule by their own authority, and my people love it this way. But what will you do in the end?" |
| Jer 61-8 Flee ... See also Rev 184,5 |
Flee for safety, people of Benjamin! Flee from Jerusalem! ... Take warning, O Jerusalem, or I will turn away from you and make your land desolate so no one can live in it." |
| Jer 69-12 (and 8 11 The prophet spoke the truth; but no one would listen. |
To whom can I speak and give warning? Who will listen to me? Their ears are closed so they cannot hear. The word of the Lord is offensive to them; they find no pleasure in it.
Jeremiah could not see why? He shared the Lord’s anger. |
| Jer 613-30 False prophets were popular Falsehood punished |
From the least to the greatest, all are greedy for gain; prophets and priests alike, all practice deceit. They dress the wound of my people as though it were not serious. 'Peace, peace,' they say, when there is no peace. Are they ashamed of their loathsome conduct? No, they have no shame at all; they do not even know how to blush. So they will fall among the fallen ... I am bringing disaster on this people, because they have not listened to my words. ... This is what the LORD says: “Look, an army is coming from the land of the north. |
| Jer 71-15 Jeremiah is now instructed to prophesy at the Temple gate. He tells them what God sees |
Jeremiah is sent not to the 'red light' district, but to the Temple! To the religious leaders, who should have been the light to the nation. But they were indulgent, immoral, proud, worshipped idols for personal gain. They presumed they could ignore God’s word because they had the Temple. This is what the Lord Almighty, the God of Israel, says: “Reform your ways and your actions, and I will let you live in this place. Do not trust in deceptive words and say, ‘This is the temple of the Lord, the temple of the Lord, the temple of the Lord!’ ... 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?’ ... Jerusalem thought they were OK and that the Temple would protect them. They were deceived into thinking sin did not really matter. But I have been watching!” declares the Lord. God sees all that men say and do, and even what they think. |
| Jer 716-20 God's terrible conclusion. |
So do not pray for this people nor offer any plea or petition for them; do not plead with me, for I will not listen to you. Also 1411 There can come a time when God says it is too late to pray. Therefore this is what the Sovereign LORD says: My anger and my wrath will be poured out on this place. |
| Jer 721 - 83 God's Judgement |
From the time your forefathers left Egypt until now, day after day, again and again I sent you my servants the prophets. But they did not listen to me or pay attention. They were stiff-necked and did more evil than their forefathers.' "This is the nation that has not obeyed the Lord its God or responded to correction. Truth has perished; The Lord has rejected and abandoned this generation that is under his wrath." The land will become desolate.
Now payday was just around the corner! God had been remarkably patient.
Is our nation now showing the same unwillingness to hear Almighty God? |
| Jer 84 - 926 Sin and Punishment revealed |
I have listened attentively ... No one repents of his wickedness. Since they have rejected the word of the LORD, what kind of wisdom do they have? ... All are greedy for gain ... all practice deceit. No, they have no shame at all; they do not even know how to blush. ... (+33) They go from one sin to another; they do not acknowledge me. ... “Should I not punish them for this?” declares the LORD. ... “I will make Jerusalem a heap of ruins ... I will scatter them among nations.” “The days are coming,” declares the LORD, “when I will punish all who are circumcised only in the flesh. ... even the whole house of Israel is uncircumcised in heart.” Why did no one heed this clear warning? Did they think the Almighty was so insignificant he could be safely ignored? How will the Lord God punish England today? |
| Jer 101-25 Sarcastic disdain for idols. And his desire to honour God. H prays |
"Like a scarecrow in a melon patch, their idols cannot speak; they must be carried because they cannot walk.
But the Lord is the true God; he is the living God, the eternal King.
The shepherds are senseless and do not inquire of the LORD;
Correct me, LORD, but only with justice – not in your anger ... |
| A little history. | Jer 1-10 (626 - 609 BC) was written during reign of Josiah - a good king who attempted much reform in Judah. But his righteous laws and practice did not change the nation. Assyria was battling with the rising power of Babylon who had sacked Nineveh in 612 BC. Egypt went to help Assyria, Josiah tried to stop them but was killed in battle 609 (delay helped Babylon take Assyrian capital, Haran). Jehoiakim became king of Judah and became vassal to Egypt. In 605 Babylon defeats Assyria in final decisive battle at Carchemish and Nebuchadnezzar becomes king of Babylon. Jehoiakim submits to Nebuchadnezzar, but rebels in 597. Dies during siege by Babylon. Jer 11-20 mostly written 1st year of Jehoiakim, 609 BC. |
| Jer 111-17 Breaking the covenant No escape from consequences. |
God reminds Jeremiah of the terms of his covenant with Judah. It included: Cursed is the man who does not obey the terms of this covenant. Jeremiah’s answer was simply, “Amen, LORD.” Then the Lord told him to remind the people of the covenant and I warned them again and again, saying, “Obey me.” But they did not listen or pay attention; instead, they followed the stubbornness of their evil hearts. Then the Lord said to me, “There is a conspiracy among the people of Judah and those who live in Jerusalem. They have returned to the sins of their forefathers, who refused to listen to my words. They have followed other gods to serve them. Both the house of Israel and the house of Judah have broken the covenant I made with their forefathers. Therefore this is what the Lord says: ‘I will bring on them a disaster they cannot escape. Although they cry out to me, I will not listen to them’.” And the Lord even told Jeremiah: “Do not pray for this people nor offer any plea or petition for them, because I will not listen when they call to me in the time of their distress.” |
| Jer 1118-23 Persecution of Jeremiah starts. |
The Lord revealed that his kindred in Anathoth were saying. ‘Do not prophesy in the name of the Lord or you will die by our hands’ But the Lord Almighty says something quite diffferent: “I will punish them. Their young men will die by the sword, their sons and daughters by famine. Not even a remnant will be left to them, because I will bring disaster on the men of Anathoth in the year of their punishment.” That year would come some 20 years later in 586 BC. |
| Jer 121-17 Jeremiah asks three questions. And God answers them. |
Why does the way of the wicked prosper? Why do all the faithless live at ease? How long will the land mourn? God's answer: I have given the beloved of my soul into the hands of her enemies. she has lifted up her voice against me; therefore I hate her. Many shepherds have destroyed my vineyard they have made my pleasant portion a desolate wilderness. They shall be ashamed of their harvests because of the fierce anger of the LORD. Behold, I will pluck them up from their land.
But that will not be the end of the story. God will also reveal his mercy: |
| Jer 131-27 Two parables and a verdict. |
1. Jeremiah told to buy a new linen loincloth, ware it for many days without washing, then to leave it hidden in rocks. Completely destroyed by maggots. This evil people ... shall be like this loincloth because they would not listen.
2. Every jar shall be filled with wine. But it will lead to drunkenness.
Then Jeremiah asks: “How long will it be before you are made clean?” |
| Jer 141 - 151 Drought. Sin must be punished |
The Lord sent a major drought. Jeremiah mourned: Though our iniquities testify against us, ... we have sinned against you. O you hope of Israel, its saviour in time of trouble, why should you be like a stranger in the land? We are called by your name; do not leave us. But the people did not mourn as Jeremiah did, so the Lord told him: He will remember their iniquity and punish their sins. Furthermore, “Do not pray for the welfare of this people. Though they fast, I will not hear their cry.” How do we react to ‘natural disasters’? Do we see it as the just hand of Almighty God, or just moan?
Do Church leaders encourage the people to repent and call upon the Lord? |
| Jer 1510-21 Jeremiah complains God does not weaken but reassures him |
Why do I always have to be the bearer of calamity and doom? Woe is me, my mother, that you bore me, a man of strife and contention to the whole land! But the Lord does not reverse his promise to punish evil. “Your wealth and your treasures I will give as spoil, without price, for all your sins, throughout all your territory. I will make you serve your enemies in a land that you do not know, for in my anger a fire is kindled that shall burn forever.” Jeremiah continues his complaint; Why is my pain unceasing, my wound incurable, refusing to be healed? Will you be to me like a deceitful brook, like waters that fail? God knows it is often hard for the prophets, he didn’t promise an easy life. He reassures him, “If you utter what is precious, and not what is worthless, you shall be as my mouth. ... they will fight against you, but they shall not prevail over you, for I am with you to save you and deliver you ... and redeem you from the grasp of the ruthless.” |
| Jer 161-13 God instructs Jeremiah |
1. The word of the LORD came to me: “You shall not take a wife, nor shall you have sons or daughters in this place.” Because they will all soon perish. 2. Do not enter the house of mourning, or go to lament or grieve for them, for I have taken away my peace from this people, my steadfast love and mercy. 3. When you tell them my judgement, they will ask, “What is our iniquity?” You shall say to them: Because your fathers have forsaken me, declares the LORD, and have gone after other gods ... and have forsaken me and have not kept my law. ... Therefore I will hurl you out of this land.” How could they not have realised their sin? It was so obvious. Did they just think it did not really matter very much? |
| Jer 1614-21 God will restore his people |
Then, suddenly, Jeremiah proclaims the sure mercy of God. Behold, the days are coming, declares the LORD, when it shall no longer be said, ‘As the LORD lives who brought up the people of Israel out of the land of Egypt,’ but ‘As the LORD lives who brought up the people of Israel out of the north country’ ... For I will bring them back to their own land that I gave to their fathers. But first I will doubly repay their iniquity and their sin. “Therefore, behold, I will make them know, this once I will make them know my power and my might, and they shall know that my name is the LORD.” |
| Jer 171-13 The price of sin What or who can redeem us? |
I will make you serve your enemies in a land that you do not know, for in my anger a fire is kindled that shall burn forever. Cursed is the man who trusts in man and makes flesh his strength, whose heart turns away from the LORD.
c.f.
But blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord. |
| Jer 1714-18 Prayer for deliverance |
The people ask Jeremiah, “Where is the word of the LORD?” But did they really want to know? Or did they dislike what he had already told them many times. |
| Jer 1719-27 Keeping the Sabbath holy |
The Lord instructs Jeremiah to go to the gates of Jerusalem and tell the people: Hear the Word of the Lord ... do not bear a burden on the Sabbath. ... Yet they did not listen or incline their ear, but stiffened their neck. They did not think this simple instruction was worth obeying, even though God also warned them: But if you do not listen to me ... then I will kindle a fire ... it shall devour ... and shall not be quenched. They chose not to listen. In 1994 Britain trashed God’s 4th Commandment and passed the Sunday Trading Act that allowed shopping on Sunday. But there has not been a Jeremiah with the courage to tell us the verdict of the Almighty. |
| Jer 181-23 A lesson from the Potter's house |
Jeremiah was told to observe how the potter works. If he makes a mistake and the pot is marred. So he takes the pot off the wheel, makes it into a lump and ‘throws’ it onto the wheel again. So the potter formed it into another pot, shaping it as seemed best to him. Then the word of the Lord came to me: “O house of Israel, can I not do with you as this potter does?” declares the Lord. “Like clay in the hand of the potter, so are you in my hand, O house of Israel.”
But they will reply, ‘It’s no use. We will continue with our own plans; each of us will follow the stubbornness of his evil heart.’ |
| Jer 191-15 Another lesson from the Potter |
This time Jeremiah bought a fired pot and then went to the city gate. Hear the word of the Lord, O kings of Judah and people of Jerusalem. This is what the Lord Almighty, the God of Israel, says: "Listen! I am going to bring a disaster on this place ... For they have forsaken me and made this a place of foreign gods; ... They have built the high places of Baal to burn their sons in the fire as offerings to Baal ... So beware ... I will devastate this city. ... Then break the jar while those who go with you are watching, and say to them, "This is what the Lord Almighty says: I will smash this nation and this city just as this potter's jar is smashed and cannot be repaired. ..." Having been 'fired', the smashed clay pot could not be re-fashioned, as in the previous lesson. Disaster is the inevitable conclusion to all who refuse to hear the gracious warnings of the Lord God to repent. True, both then and now!
Jeremiah then went to Topheth and gave them the same message. |
| Jer 201-6 Persecution |
Evil men hate God's Word. Always have, and always will! When the priest Pashhur chief officer in the temple of the Lord, heard Jeremiah prophesying these things, he had Jeremiah the prophet beaten and put in the stocks. But when released next day Pashur was given a personal word from God: I will hand all Judah over to the king of Babylon, who will carry them away to Babylon or put them to the sword. ... And you, Pashhur, and all who live in your house will go into exile to Babylon. There you will die and be buried ... Pashur would not forget these words, but neither would he repent! |
| Jer 207-18 Honest complaint to God. |
I am ridiculed all day long; everyone mocks me. Whenever I speak, I cry out proclaiming violence and destruction. So the word of the Lord has brought me insult and reproach all day long. But if I say, “I will not mention him or speak any more in his name,” his word is in my heart like a fire, a fire shut up in my bones. I am weary of holding it in; indeed, I cannot.
But Almighty God was well aware of this. |
The remainder of Jeremiah is studied in approx. chronological order. Written during reigns of Jehoiakim 609-597 and Zedekiah 597-986 BC
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| Jer 221-23 Jeremiah sent to warn Jehoiakim 609-597 BC |
This is what the Lord says: Do what is just and right ... For if you (Jehoiakim) are careful to carry out these commands, then kings who sit on David's throne ... But if you do not obey these commands, declares the Lord, I swear by myself that this palace will become a ruin. Shallum (Jehoahaz) He will never return. He will die in the place where they have led him captive. (Deposed by Pharaoh Neco in 609 after 3 months). Woe to him who builds his palace by unrighteousness ... But your eyes and your heart are set only on dishonest gain ... He (Jehoakim) will have the burial of a donkey– dragged away and thrown outside the gates of Jerusalem. Fulfilled in 597 rebellion against Babylon 3 months before end of siege. see Josephus - 'Antiquities of the Jews' Book X Ch 6 part 3 (Use back arrow to return) Jehoiakim would never take any notice of Almighty God's warning in his 12 year reign. |
| Jer 261-24 Sent to Temple courtyard |
This is what the Lord says: "If you do not listen to me and follow my law, which I have set before you, and if you do not listen to the words of my servants the prophets, whom I have sent to you again and again, ... then I will make this house like Shiloh and this city an object of cursing among all the nations of the earth." God's message was both gracious and clear; there was a choice to live or die. 'The choice is yours, the way is clear, You can alone decide, ....' In Jeremiah's day the people of Jerusalem made an instant foolish choice. But as soon as Jeremiah finished telling all the people everything the Lord had commanded him to say, the priests, the prophets and all the people seized him and said, "You must die! Before the court, Jeremiah repeats the same warning. Then he adds: As for me, I am in your hands; do with me whatever you think is good and right. Be assured, however, that if you put me to death, you will bring the guilt of innocent blood on yourselves and on this city and on those who live in it. Some elders then remembered (prompted by God) that Micah had prophesied in the days of Hezekiah, "Jerusalem will become a heap of rubble." And he was not killed. Thus Almighty God ensured that Jeremiah was spared. His work was not yet complete and God's promise of protection was demonstrated. |
| Jer 351-19 Recabites are rewarded for righteousness and obedience |
This rare example of righteousness is placed here by Jeremiah to contrast against the evil of Jehoiakim. The teetotal Recabites were invited to the Temple and purposefully tempted to drink wine. They refused. Jeremiah told them, "The Lord Almighty, the God of Israel, says: 'You have obeyed the command of your forefather Jonadab and have followed all his instructions and have done everything he ordered.' Therefore, this is what the Lord Almighty, the God of Israel, says: 'Jonadab son of Recab will never fail to have a man to serve me'." |
| Jer 251-38 605 BC Nebuchadnezzar now king, defeated Egypt at Carchemesh. “You have not listened ...”
Note
Jerusalem + Temple destroyed in 586 |
For twenty-three years ... the word of the Lord has come to me and I have spoken to you again and again, but you have not listened. Jeremiah would continue to do so for another 17 years with the same response. Therefore the Lord Almighty says this: "Because you have not listened to my words, I will summon all the peoples of the north and my servant Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon," declares the Lord, "and I will bring them against this land and its inhabitants and against all the surrounding nations. I will completely destroy them ... This whole country will become a desolate wasteland, and these nations will serve the king of Babylon seventy years." He also prophesies that after the 70 years Babylon would be overthrown and desolate for ever. [Babylon was overthrown by Cyrus in 539 and by Alexander in 331. By 140 BC it was deserted and buried with sand until its discovery by explorers in the 19th C. See Ancient Babylon (Use back arrow to return)
"The Lord will roar from on high; ... he will bring judgment on all mankind and put the wicked to the sword." |
| Jer 361-32 Jehoiakim's contempt of God. And pays the price |
In obedience Jeremiah dictates a complete scroll of God's word to Baruch, and then told him to read it on a day of fasting in the Temple courtyard. He did. The officials told him to go into hiding with Jeremiah while they told the king. Jehoiakim told Elishama, the secretary, to read it to him. Whenever Jehudi had read three or four columns of the scroll, the king cut them off with a scribe's knife and threw them into the firepot, until the entire scroll was burned in the fire. What total contempt. He then ordered the arrest of Jeremiah and Baruch. But the Lord had hidden them. As promised. Therefore, this is what the Lord says about Jehoiakim king of Judah: He will have no one to sit on the throne of David; his body will be thrown out and exposed to the heat by day and the frost by night. ... I will bring on them and those living in Jerusalem and the people of Judah every disaster I pronounced against them, because they have not listened. (See notes on Ch 22 above) Almighty God was not going to allow a mere king to destroy his word. Is 408 So Jeremiah took another scroll and gave it to the scribe Baruch son of Neriah, and as Jeremiah dictated, Baruch wrote on it all the words of the scroll that Jehoiakim king of Judah had burned in the fire. And many similar words were added to them. This scroll we can now read today 2,600 years later. Such is the grace of God. |
| Jer 451-5 A word for Baruch |
It is hard to live under persecution, and not complain. You said, 'Woe to me! The Lord has added sorrow to my pain; I am worn out with groaning and find no rest.' The Lord said, "Say this to him: 'This is what the Lord says: I will overthrow what I have built and uproot what I have planted, throughout the land. Should you then seek great things for yourself? Seek them not. For I will bring disaster on all people, declares the Lord, but wherever you go I will let you escape with your life'." Baruch was hoping for a bit more than that! But the Lord upheld him and he faithfully completed writing all the words of God to Jeremiah, including the deeds for redeeming the Anathoth land in 587 (Ch 32). |
| Jer 231-8 Righteous Branch promised |
"Woe to the shepherds who are destroying and scattering the sheep of my pasture!" declares the Lord. He not only promises that they will be punished, but that he himself will be the Shepherd of Jerusalem. "I myself will gather the remnant of my flock out of all the countries where I have driven them and will bring them back to their pasture, where they will be fruitful and increase in number. ... I will raise up to David a righteous Branch, a King who will reign wisely and do what is just and right in the land. In his days Judah will be saved and Israel will live in safety. This is the name by which he will be called: The Lord Our Righteousness." (See also Zech 12-14) He came as Redeeming Shepherd; now we await with longing his Kingship. |
| Jer 239-40 False prophets condemned. |
"Both prophet and priest are godless; even in my temple I find their wickedness," declares the Lord. "Therefore ... I will bring disaster on them. ... They prophesied by Baal and led my people Israel astray. ... They commit adultery and live a lie. They strengthen the hands of evildoers, so that no one turns from his wickedness. They are all like Sodom to me. ... They fill you with false hopes. ..." Therefore, declares the Lord, "I am against the prophets who steal from one another words supposedly from me. ... Therefore, I will surely forget you and cast you out of my presence along with the city I gave to you and your fathers." The false prophets were popular with the people, but not with Almighty God. Jeremiah was a lone voice, persecuted and rejected for 40 years; but he remained God's choice, loved and protected for ever. In due time God will punish the false prophets. He will reveal who is true, but God's judgement may not come to pass for some years. Falsehood and deceit, like adverts, sound and appear good, but it cannot last. Truth is despised, ridiculed and distorted, but Almighty God says it will always end in death. One of the greatest lie today is the Evolution Theory that is taught as truth. What folly! At every opportunity such scoffers ridicule God. 2 Pe 33-10 Ro 118-32 But without God presence and protection every man doomed to destruction. Throughout all the centuries false prophets cannot admit they are wrong. Remember every Word of God is flawless. Prov 305 |
| Jer 2224-30 (597 BC) Jerusalem under siege. |
Jehoiakim dies and thrown over city wall, fulfilling Jer 2219 (see notes above) Jehoiachin king. Jeremiah tells him the word of the Lord: "I will hand you over to those who seek your life, those you fear–to Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon and to the Babylonians. I will hurl you and the mother who gave you birth into another country, where neither of you was born, and there you both will die. You will never come back to the land you long to return to." Surrenders after 3 months as king when this was fulfilled. Nebuchadnezzar makes Zedekiah king. (Remainder of Jeremiah written during his 11 year evil reign.) |
| Jer 241-10 Two baskets of figs v.good + v.bad |
The baskets are placed in front of the Temple of the Lord. The Lord reveals that he sees as good, the exiles from Judah, whom I sent away from this place to the land of the Babylonians. My eyes will watch over them for their good, and I will bring them back to this land. I will build them up and not tear them down; I will plant them and not uproot them. I will give them a heart to know me, that I am the Lord. They will be my people, and I will be their God, for they will return to me with all their heart. 'But like the poor figs, which are so bad they cannot be eaten,' says the Lord, 'so will I deal with Zedekiah king of Judah, his officials and the survivors from Jerusalem, whether they remain in this land or live in Egypt. I will make them abhorrent and an offence to all the kingdoms of the earth.' Daniel and his 3 friends had been exiled to Babylon in 605; now in 597 Ezekiel and a few others had been exiled. It is clear that the Lord's plan for them was in high contrast to that of Zedekiah and Jerusalem who would continue their refusal to hear the Word of the Lord and be like figs too bad to eat. The next 11 years would be problematic and end with an 18 month siege, death or enslavement and the destruction of the city and the Temple. What is God's plan for the UK today? Will it be like the good figs or the bad figs? |
| Jer 27,28 Prophesy - true or false? Unpopular or popular? |
Jeremiah told to make and wear a yoke to illustrate his prophecy to Zedekiah and the visiting envoys of Edom, Moab, Ammon, Tyre and Sidon, that 'This is what the Lord Almighty, the God of Israel, says: "Tell this to your masters: With my great power and outstretched arm I made the earth and its people and the animals that are on it, and I give it to anyone I please. Now I will hand all your countries over to my servant Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon.' They were warned that if they refused God would destroy them. Also: do not listen to your prophets ... they prophesy lies. The truth is that everything that Nebuchadnezzar left in the Temple and the palace they will be taken to Babylon and there they will remain until the day I come for them,' declares the Lord. 'Then I will bring them back and restore them to this place.' Hananiah, a popular false prophet said that Jehoiachin and the treasures would return within two years. So Jeremiah said, "Listen, Hananiah! The Lord has not sent you ... Therefore, this is what the Lord says: 'I am about to remove you from the face of the earth. This very year you are going to die, because you have preached rebellion against the Lord'." He died that very year. This proved the truth: "The prophet who prophesies peace will be recognized as one truly sent by the Lord only if his prediction comes true." But it did not cause anyone to realise that Jeremiah spoke God's true word. |
| Jer 291-23 Letter to Exiles in Babylon (605 + 597) |
False prophets had told the exiles that God would soon bring them home. Jeremiah had to reveal the truth: 1. This is what the Lord Almighty, the God of Israel, says to all those I carried into exile from Jerusalem to Babylon. So build houses and settle down. 2. Do not let the prophets and diviners among you deceive you. 3. When seventy years are completed for Babylon, I will come to you and fulfill my gracious promise to bring you back to this place. Cyrus would allow the Jews to return in 538 BC. This would be 67, 58 and 47 years from the 3 exiles in 605, 597 and 586 BC. If 'for Babylon' the years are taken from 586 when the Temple was destroyed to the completion of the Temple rebuild in 516, it would be exactly 70 years. The most significant fact of this letter was to emphasise that it was Almighty God who carried them into exile, and it was He who would choose when to bring them home. The same Almighty God would repeat this when the Jews were exiled again by Rome in 70 AD and their return 2,000 years later - today. Jeremiah's letter from the Lord was important then and it always is. As the righteous man Job bravely proclaimed, "The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away; may the name of the Lord be praised." Job 121 |
| Jer 2924-32 A simple message to a false prophet |
Because Shemaiah has prophesied to you, even though I did not send him, and has led you to believe a lie, this is what the Lord says: 'I will surely punish Shemaiah the Nehelamite and his descendants. He will have no one left among this people, nor will he see the good things I will do for my people, declares the Lord, because he has preached rebellion against me.' Like the unbelievers in Sinai who were told that they would die in the desert and not enter the promised land; so the Lord tells the false prophet Shemaiah and his family that they will never return to Judea from Babylon. What is God's word to those who preach similar lies today? |
| Jer 37,38 Zedekiah asks for prayer, but doesn't like the answer. |
Zedekiah asks Jeremiah to pray for him. Jeremiah not deceived by man who only wanted to escape punishment and replies: Tell the king of Judah, who sent you to inquire of me, 'Pharaoh's army, which has marched out to support you, will go back to its own land, to Egypt. Then the Babylonians will return and attack this city; they will capture it and burn it down. Jeremiah arrested when they thought he was deserting to the Babylonians. Jeremiah was put into a vaulted cell in a dungeon, where he remained a long time. Then King Zedekiah sent for him and had him brought to the palace, where he asked him privately, "Is there any word from the Lord?" "Yes," Jeremiah replied, "you will be handed over to the king of Babylon." Jeremiah did not change his message because he was put in prison. And Zedekiah did not change his ways when told the word of the Lord. Though he did release Jeremiah to 'house arrest', where he continued to prophesy. Zedekiah made no effort to stop officials who wanted to punish Jeremiah. They lowered him into muddy cistern, but Ebed-Melech rescued him. Zedekiah again questions the prophet privately, but did not like what he heard. Jeremiah remained in the courtyard of the guard until the day Jerusalem was captured. |
| Jer 301-11 God's covenant with Israel stands firm; his judgement will be completed. |
"This is what the Lord, the God of Israel, says: 'Write in a book all the words I have spoken to you. The days are coming,' declares the Lord, 'when I will bring my people Israel and Judah back from captivity and restore them to the land I gave their forefathers to possess,' says the Lord." But the coming day would not come until the punishment was complete >50 years. This true prophecy was to be written in a book, one that needed to last for centuries. It would be partly fulfilled in 537 BC when the Jews returned from Babylon. It is being fulfilled today as jews are still returning to Judea.The 'return' is not only to the land, but to righteousness and to honouring the Lord God. There is a significant warning the return will be a time of trouble for Jacob, but he will be saved out of it. This attracts much opposition from most of the world. 'I will surely save you out of a distant place, your descendants from the land of their exile. Jacob will again have peace and security, and no one will make him afraid. I am with you and will save you,' declares the Lord. Though forgiven, sin may retain a price tag. I will discipline you but only with justice; I will not let you go entirely unpunished. |
| Jer 3012-24 Only the Lord can heal the incurable wounds. |
This is what the Lord says: "Your wound is incurable, your injury beyond healing. There is no one to plead your cause, no remedy for your sore, no healing for you. ... because your guilt is so great and your sins so many. ... But I will restore you to health and heal your wounds," declares the Lord, "because you are called an outcast, Zion for whom no one cares." However medically skilled man is enabled to become, he can never heal the disease of sin. God's justice requires the perfect sacrifice that only his Son being crucified could and has satisfied. Ths forgiven and made righteous, God promises: 'I will bring him near and he will come close to me' ... declares the Lord. 'So you will be my people, and I will be your God. ... In days to come you will understand this.' Began fulfilment in Lu 2432,45 Fulfilment continues today, and even includes us Gentiles. Such is the grace and kindness of Almighty God. |
| Jer 311-15 A repentant nation is gathered God reveals a very different future. |
"At that time," declares the Lord,
"I will be the God of all the clans of Israel, and they will be my people."
Almighty God did not create this world and choose the Jewish people to see it all disappear in the fire of judgement. "I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with loving-kindness. I will build you up again and you will be rebuilt, O Virgin Israel. ..." This is what the Lord says: "Sing with joy for Jacob; shout for the foremost of the nations. Make your praises heard, and say, 'O Lord, save your people, the remnant of Israel.' See, I will bring them from the land of the north and gather them from the ends of the earth. ... They will come with weeping; they will pray as I bring them back. I will lead them beside streams of water on a level path where they will not stumble, because I am Israel's father, and Ephraim is my firstborn son." In ~600 BC when good news was almost unknown, God reveals his future plan. They will return chastened and repentant. 'He who scattered Israel will gather them and will watch over his flock like a shepherd. For the Lord will ransom Jacob and redeem them from the hand of those stronger than they. ... They will be like a well-watered garden, and they will sorrow no more.' But there would also be a time when Satan would try to snuff out the new born Son of God and kill all the babies under 2 years. "A voice is heard in Ramah, mourning and great weeping, Rachel weeping for her children and refusing to be comforted, because her children are no more." Herod fulfilled this brief but ghastly prophecy. It was not the end of the story. This is what the Lord Almighty, the God of Israel, says: "When I bring them back from captivity, the people in the land of Judah and in its towns will once again use these words: 'The Lord bless you, O righteous dwelling, O sacred mountain'. ... " At this I awoke and looked around. My sleep had been pleasant to me. It is not surprising that such truth was so welcome to the weeping prophet. "The days are coming," declares the Lord, "when I will plant the house of Israel and the house of Judah with the offspring of men and of animals. Just as I watched over them to uproot and tear down, and to overthrow, destroy and bring disaster, so I will watch over them to build and to plant," declares the Lord. What grace and kindness is revealed in these hope building words of truth. |
| Jer 3131-40 The new covenant. |
"The time is coming," declares the Lord, "when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah. It will not be like the covenant I made with their forefathers when I took them by the hand to lead them out of Egypt, because they broke my covenant." The old covenant was conditional upon keeping the Law. The new covenant is based upon being 'born again', on believing God's Word, on the forgiveness Jesus gained for us, not on our endeavours. "This is the covenant I will make with the house of Israel after that time," declares the Lord. "I will put my law in their minds and write it on their hearts. I will be their God, and they will be my people. ... For I will forgive their wickedness and will remember their sins no more." Almighty God reveals that this covenant will never be revoked. That his covenant with Abraham is everlasting. Gen 173-8 We would do well to remember this when considering the nation of Israel. This is what the Lord says, "He who appoints the sun to shine by day, who decrees the moon and stars to shine by night, who stirs up the sea so that its waves roar– the Lord Almighty is his name: "Only if these decrees vanish from my sight," declares the Lord, "will the descendants of Israel ever cease to be a nation before me." This is what the Lord says: "Only if the heavens above can be measured and the foundations of the earth below be searched out will I reject all the descendants of Israel because of all they have done," declares the Lord. Jer 3135-37 Even many Christians think that God gave up on the Jews after Calvary. It is true he exiled Judah to Babylon when they rejected him in the days of Jeremiah, but God kept his promise to bring them back to their land. It is true that he exiled the Jews again when they crucified the Son of God, but again he is keeping his promise to gather them - not only to their land but gathering them to the Lord their God. See Ezek 34,37 and Zech 12,13 Almighty God always keeps all his word. |
| Jer 32 588 BC. Jeremiah buys a field. |
This apparently foolish story has much to reveal about the true wisdom of God! Zedekiah had rebelled against Nebuchadnezzar who responds by a siege of Jerusalem. Jeremiah was imprisoned in the royal palace because he prophesied that the siege would be successful and Zedekiah taken to Babylon. God told Jeremiah that his cousin would come and say, 'Buy my field at Anathoth, because as nearest relative it is your right and duty to buy it.' Anathoth was 2 miles NE of Jerusalem and was a campsite for the Babylon besieging army. Jeremiah obeyed God. He gave the witnessed and sealed deed of purchase and a copy of it to Baruch in their presence and instructed him: 'This is what the Lord Almighty, the God of Israel, says: Take these documents, both the sealed and unsealed copies of the deed of purchase, and put them in a clay jar so they will last a long time. For this is what the Lord Almighty, the God of Israel, says: Houses, fields and vineyards will again be bought in this land.' Jeremiah asks God for an explanation; and the gracious God tells him: "I am the Lord, the God of all mankind. Is anything too hard for me? Therefore, this is what the Lord says: I am about to hand this city over to the Babylonians and to Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon, who will capture it. ... The people of Israel and Judah have done nothing but evil in my sight from their youth ... You are saying about this city, 'By the sword, famine and plague it will be handed over to the king of Babylon'; but this is what the Lord, the God of Israel, says: I will surely gather them from all the lands where I banish them in my furious anger and great wrath; I will bring them back to this place and let them live in safety. They will be my people, and I will be their God. I will give them singleness of heart and action, so that they will always fear me for their own good and the good of their children after them. I will make an everlasting covenant with them: I will never stop doing good to them, and I will inspire them to fear me, so that they will never turn away from me. I will rejoice in doing them good and will assuredly plant them in this land with all my heart and soul. This is what the Lord says: As I have brought all this great calamity on this people, so I will give them all the prosperity I have promised them. Once more fields will be bought in this land of which you say, 'It is a desolate waste, without men or animals, for it has been handed over to the Babylonians.' Fields will be bought for silver, and deeds will be signed, sealed and witnessed in the territory of Benjamin, in the villages around Jerusalem, in the towns of Judah and in the towns of the hill country, of the western foothills and of the Negev, because I will restore their fortunes, declares the Lord." Almighty God did fulfill this promise in 537 BC when the Jews returned from Babylon. But it is again being fulfilled today after a 2,000 year Roman exile that started in 70 AD. God assured Jeremiah that his covenant was everlasting and he would never stop doing good to them. One day in some archaeological dig, Jeremiah’s jar with the deeds will be found, buried deep in the rubble on which modern Jerusalem is built. Great will be the rejoicing at the faithfulness of the Lord God of Abraham. |
| Jer 33 Still 588 BC The word of the Lord came to him a second time. |
"This city ... will be filled with the dead bodies of the men I will slay in my anger and wrath. I will hide my face from this city because of all its wickedness." The Lord God exercises both mercy and judgement, love and anger. Jerusalem had chosen to reject every warning Jeremiah had delivered to them over the last 40 years. So God's anger was entirely justified. But even in his anger he tells them that a day of mercy and grace will come. "Nevertheless, I will bring health and healing to it; I will heal my people and will let them enjoy abundant peace and security. I will bring Judah and Israel back from captivity and will rebuild them as they were before. I will cleanse them from all the sin they have committed against me and will forgive all their sins of rebellion against me. Then this city will bring me renown, joy, praise and honour before all nations on earth that hear of all the good things I do for it; and they will be in awe and will tremble at the abundant prosperity and peace I provide for it. ... In those days and at that time I will make a righteous Branch sprout from David's line; he will do what is just and right in the land. In those days Judah will be saved and Jerusalem will live in safety. This is the name by which it will be called: The Lord Our Righteousness. ... This is what the Lord says: 'If I have not established my covenant with day and night and the fixed laws of heaven and earth, then I will reject the descendants of Jacob and David my servant and will not choose one of his sons to rule over the descendants of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. For I will restore their fortunes and have compassion on them'." In the midst of his just judgement, the Lord God did not want them to be in any doubt as to his faithfulness. This truth will be of great benefit to us in the days of the Great Tribulation. |
| Jer 34 Personal warnings to Zedekiah |
Go to Zedekiah king of Judah and tell him, 'This is what the Lord says: I am about to hand this city over to the king of Babylon, and he will burn it down. You will not escape from his grasp but will surely be captured and handed over to him. You will see the king of Babylon with your own eyes, and he will speak with you face to face. And you will go to Babylon. Yet hear the promise of the Lord, O Zedekiah king of Judah. This is what the Lord says concerning you: You will not die by the sword; you will die peacefully.'(in Babylon). After Jeremiah reminded Zedekiah about granting freedom in 7th year, the officials agreed but then went back on their word. Zedekiah was too weak to enforce it. So the Lord proclaimed that because they have violated my covenant they will fall by the sword, plague and famine ... Their dead bodies will become food for the birds of the air and the beasts of the earth. It is a tough, but oft repeated truth that those who reject Almighty God and his word, will in due time suffer the consequences. |
| Jer 21 Another warning to Zedekiah |
Tell Zedekiah, 'This is what the Lord, the God of Israel, says: ... I myself will fight against you with an outstretched hand and a mighty arm in anger and fury and great wrath. I will strike down those who live in this city–both men and animals–and they will die of a terrible plague. After that, declares the Lord, I will hand over Zedekiah king of Judah, his officials and the people in this city who survive the plague, sword and famine, to Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon. ... Furthermore, tell the people, This is what the Lord says: See, I am setting before you the way of life and the way of death. Whoever stays in this city will die by the sword, famine or plague. But whoever goes out and surrenders to the Babylonians who are besieging you will live; he will escape with his life.' No one can claim that Almighty God does not give us clear warnings. Zedekiah and Jerusalem took no notice. As always, God fulfilled his word. |
| Jer 391 - 406 The Fall of Jerusalem. 586 The Word of God is fulfilled. His care for his servants is revealed. |
While Jeremiah had been confined in the courtyard of the guard, the word of the Lord came to him: "Go and tell Ebed-Melech the Cushite ... I am about to fulfill my words against this city ... But I will rescue you on that day, declares the Lord; you will not be handed over to those you fear. I will save you; you will not fall by the sword but will escape with your life, because you trust in me, declares the Lord." When Babylon had broken through part of the city wall Zedekiah fled with his officials, but were soon caught by Nebuchadnezzar. He saw his sons being killed, then he was blinded and taken to Babylon. They then destroyed Jerusalem and the Temple as the Lord had prophesied. Nebuchadnezzar gave these orders about Jeremiah ... "Take him and look after him; don't harm him but do for him whatever he asks." When the commander of the guard found Jeremiah, he said to him, "The Lord your God decreed this disaster for this place. And now the Lord has brought it about; he has done just as he said he would. All this happened because you people sinned against the Lord and did not obey him. But today I am freeing you from the chains on your wrists. Come with me to Babylon, if you like, and I will look after you; but if you do not want to, then don't come. Look, the whole country lies before you; go wherever you please." Jeremiah chose to stay at Mizpah. Why? What governed his instant decision? Some 9 years earlier God gave Jeremiah a vision of two baskets of figs - some good and some really bad. (Jer 24). Jeremiah was now about 60, nearing retirement. He had been just been assured of comfortable retirement in Babylon and God had promised it would be well for the exiles there. But God had called him to a life of preaching the truth that the people rejected and made him universally unpopular. But such is the love of God for sinners. Besides the exiles in Babylon already had Ezekiel as prophet and Daniel as PM. Jeremiah knew his mission was not yet completed, so he stayed. Then the commander gave him provisions and a present and let him go. The Commander had far more respect for the word of God than Zedekiah. |
| Jer 52 More detail of the fall of Jerusalem |
So Judah went into captivity, away from her land. But the story of God's chosen people does not end in Babylon. 50 years later the Jews would be released and return for the next 'chapter'. |
| Jer 407 - 413 More murder |
Gedaliah appointed governor of Judea by Babylon and lived in Mizpah. Johanan warned him: "Don't you know that Baalis king of the Ammonites has sent Ishmael son of Nethaniah to take your life?" But Gedaliah son of Ahikam did not believe them. 7 months later Ishmael came with 10 men and killed Gedaliah and all the Jews who were with him. |
| Jer 414 - 4430 More rebellion Jeremiah taken to Egypt. |
Johanan seeks word of God from Jeremiah. They even made an oath to obey whatever they were told. But, like the people in Joshua's day (Josh 2419), they still chose to disobey when they did not like what God said. They took Jeremiah with them down to Egypt - and as a result "As surely as the Sovereign Lord lives. For I am watching over them for harm, not for good; the Jews in Egypt will perish by sword and famine until they are all destroyed." And it was so. Why do men find it so hard to keep the word of the Lord? How often he must have prayed, "Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven." |
| Jer 46-51 Judgement of the nations. |
God's word to Egypt, Philistines, Moab, Ammon, Edom, Damascus, Kedar and Hazor, Elam and especially Babylon. "Babylon must fall because of Israel's slain, just as the slain in all the earth have fallen because of Babylon. ... Then say, 'So will Babylon sink to rise no more because of the disaster I will bring upon her'." Babylon fell to Darius the Mede in 538 BC, and will fall for ever in Rev 18. Although disaster had come upon Jerusalem, the Temple and the Jews, Almighty God reminds them of his promise to restore them. "Do not fear, O Jacob my servant, for I am with you," declares the Lord. "Though I completely destroy all the nations among which I scatter you, I will not completely destroy you. I will discipline you but only with justice; I will not let you go entirely unpunished." |
| Jer 5231-34 The surprising close. |
These last 4 verses of Jeremiah an irrelevant anticlimax. Several chapters earlier Jeremiah was taken to Egypt, and that was the end. Not told what happened to him. Book is not about Jeremiah, but about God’s judgement upon Judah and the nations. Jer 52 reminds us about the fall of Jerusalem and with Jehoiachin in Babylon who put aside his prison clothes and for the rest of his life ate regularly at the king’s table. i.e. Remember the judgement, and also remember it is not the end. “Those who cannot learn from history are doomed to repeat it.” Important because none of Jehoiachin’s children will be king. Jer 2228-30 Who would? Jesus! “The Lord our Righteousness”. Jer 235,6 Jeremiah ends with hope and a reminder of this promise.
The world mess ends in Kingdom of God being established. |
Lamentations [Contents]
This book is 5 poems that lament the destruction of Jerusalem by Nebuchadnezzar in 586 BC.
There is total anguish and just punishment.
And yet within there is also a faint glimmer of hope.
There is no end to God’s faithfulness and his eternal covenant.
Lam 1
How lonely sits the city that was full of people!
How like a widow has she become, she who was great among the nations!
She weeps bitterly in the night, with tears on her cheeks.
Judah has gone into exile ... and hard servitude
because the LORD has afflicted her for the multitude of her transgressions
O LORD, behold my affliction, for the enemy has triumphed!
Zion stretches out her hands, but there is none to comfort her.
Lam 2
The Lord has swallowed up without mercy all the habitations of Jacob;
in his wrath he has broken down the strongholds of the daughter of Judah.
He has killed all who were delightful in our eyes;
he has poured out his fury like fire.
He did not restrain his hand from destroying.
Your prophets have seen for you false and deceptive visions.
The LORD has done what he purposed; he has carried out his word.
Lam 3
He has walled me about so that I cannot escape
though I call and cry for help, he shuts out my prayer.
But this I call to mind, and therefore I have hope:
The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; his mercies never come to an end;
they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.
Though he cause grief, he will have compassion
according to the abundance of his steadfast love.
My eyes will flow without ceasing, without respite,
until the LORD from heaven looks down and sees.
I called on your name, O LORD, from the depths of the pit.
You have taken up my cause, O Lord; you have redeemed my life.
Lam 4
The holy stones lie scattered at the head of every street.
The precious sons of Zion.
The LORD gave full vent to his wrath; he poured out his hot anger.
This was for the sins of her prophets and the iniquities of her priests,
who shed in the midst of her the blood of the righteous.
The punishment of your iniquity, O daughter of Zion, is accomplished.
Lam 5
Our fathers sinned, and are no more; and we bear their iniquities.
The joy of our hearts has ceased; our dancing has been turned to mourning;
for Mount Zion which lies desolate.
But you, O LORD, reign forever; your throne endures to all generations.
Restore us to yourself, O LORD, that we may be restored!
My faith has found a resting place, Not in device or creed;
I trust the Ever-Living One, His wounds for me shall plead.
I need no other argument, I need no other plea,
It is enough that Jesus died, And that he died for me.
Enough for me that Jesus saves, This ends my fear and doubt;
A sinful soul I come to him, He'll never cast me out.
Ezekiel [Contents]
| Ezek 11-28 (593 BC) How is God described? What does this teach us about God? What other features are symbolised? |
Flashing fire, brilliant light, 4 living creatures. See also Is 61-7 Wherever the spirit would go, they went, without turning. 4 wheels full of eyes. God sees everything. Almighty God is enthroned in glory fill whole earth and Creation. Also Hab 214 Not just bright, but all colours of the rainbow. Majestic beauty. |
| Ezek 22 - 321 To whom was he sent? Scroll had two meanings? What warning given to watchman? |
Raised and sent to a rebellious, stubborn nation by the Sovereign Lord. Be not afraid of their words. God and his prophets are always resisted. Given scroll to eat written words of lamentation and mourning and woe. Word of God is sweet to eat, but bitter because people would not listen. All my words that I shall speak to you receive in your heart ... whether they hear or refuse to hear. See also Jer 1616 Rev 109-11 Watchman accountable if he does not warn people of impending doom. |
| Ezek 322 - 517 Clay model of besieged Jerusalem. Cut and weigh hair and beard. Why? |
Ezekiel made dumb except when God gave him his prophetic word. 390 days on left side for sin of Israel + 40 days for Judah. Extreme famine. Burn ⅓, Cut with sword and scatter ⅓, burn ⅓, but keep a few strands. God says I myself am against you for the sins of Jerusalem and your idols. |
| Ezek 61 - 727 Why is the Lord so angry? What refrain frequently occurs? What warning for careless indifferent? Wealth will not be able to save. |
Idols. Worshipped for what they hoped to gain from it. Lust ... and greed
which is idolatry. Because of these, the wrath of God is coming. Col 35,6 "Then they will know that I am the Lord." (x 68 in Ezek) "The end is now upon you ... Disaster ... Doom." Too late to repent! Almighty God repeats this stark warning for the wicked today. Beware! |
| Ezek 81-18 (592 BC) Vision of glory c.f. forms of detestable idol worship. Elders said "the Lord has forsaken the land." True or false? |
70 elders provoke God's jealous anger - they worship idol in darkness. 25 men (priests) with backs towards Temple and Almighty God. True - Therefore I will deal with them in anger ... I will not listen to them. |
| Ezek 91 - 1022 Who was spared judgement, and why marked? |
Now the glory of the God of Israel had gone up from the cherub on which it rested to the threshold of the house. But some pleaded for mercy. The Lord instructed them to be marked. Though they pleaded, God refused to alter his verdict. The land is full of injustice ... they say the Lord does not see. I will bring their deeds upon their heads.” |
| Ezek 101-22 The Glory leaves the Temple |
The Lord commands that burning coals are scattered over Jerusalem. Then the glory of the LORD went out from the threshold of the house, and stood over the cherubim. And the cherubim lifted up their wings and mounted up from the earth. |
| Ezek 111-13 Just Judgement declared |
I will bring the sword upon you, declares the Lord GOD. And I will bring you out of the midst of it, and give you into the hands of foreigners, and execute judgments upon you. Smug Jerusalem to be destroyed; those exiled (605 and 596) will return, and their hearts no longer divided or like stone. They will be my people. Glory left 83,4 93 104 1019 111,3 |
| Ezek 1114-25 God will be with them in exile and bring them back to Jerusalem |
Thus says the Lord GOD: Though I removed them far off among the nations.
Yet I have been a sanctuary to them for a while in the countries where they have gone. ...
I will gather you from the peoples and assemble you out of the countries where you have been scattered, and I will give you the land of Israel. ... And I will give them one heart, and a new spirit I will put within them. But until that day when they return The glory of the LORD went up from the midst of the city. Promise of return 2039-44 3921-29 434-7 |
| Ezek 121-28 Jerusalem to be exiled; soon. |
People would be exiled or killed and 'prince' (king) caught, blinded and
exiled to Babylon. 2 Kgs 252-21 Said it would not happen, or only in distant future. But God said, "Now!" Same scoffing today about tribulation and 2nd Coming of Jesus. 2 Pe 33-10 |
| Ezek 131-23 False prophets deluded How will people learn truth? |
False prophets misled the people saying ‘peace, when there is no peace’,
And you shall know that I am the Lord GOD. How? Because God would bring war, the wall would be destroyed and Jerusalem sent into exile. You have disheartened the righteous ... and you have encouraged the wicked. No generation like to hear that God is angry, that sin matters. ‘Propitiation for our sins’ remains an unknown phrase. 1 Jn 22 410 Heb 217 Such teaching makes the Cross at best only a selfless example to follow, instead of the only way to appease God’s anger by a perfect sacrifice. Their false message easily gained popularity; and deceived many. Like papal indulgencies that are still sold today! God’s truth ignored. But you shall know that I am the LORD. (x68 in Ezek - you or they or ...) How will they know? By what he does as well as by what he says! Judgement will come! |
| Ezek 141- 158 Idol worshippers will be punished |
And the word of the LORD came to me: “Son of man, these men have taken their idols into their hearts. Ezekiel is instructed to tell them to repent or God will set his face against that man. Even Noah, Daniel and Job would not be able to stop God destroying Jerusalem. I will make the land desolate, because they have acted faithlessly, declares the Lord GOD. What will the Lord God do to UK which is systematically destroying its Christian foundations and is set on ‘inclusiveness’ with other faiths? |
| Ezek 161-63 God's justified complaint He cannot ignore their sin Nor his covenant |
a. Under God’s care Israel grew beautiful, But you trusted in your beauty and played the whore and even sacrificed your children. God was forgotten. b. They preferred the wickedness of the world to Almighty God. v32 Their sin was worse that the Amorites and Sodom whom God had destroyed. They were arrogant, overfed and unconcerned ... and did detestable things. Thus You will bear the consequences of your lewdness. You despised me! Yet I will remember my covenant with you in the days of your youth, and I will establish for you an everlasting covenant. What amazing grace! UK today has despised our Christian heritage. Will God be merciful to us? |
| Ezek 171-24 In this allegory what sin is revealed? |
Zedekiah, enthroned by Nebuchadnezzar, broke his treaty by bribing Egypt. No man can frustrate the plans of Almighty God. My servant Neb' will execute my judgement. 'I' x 9 in v19-24 Prov 1921 Is 4611 Jer 259 Hab 16 |
| Ezek 181-32 Israel questioned God's justice. Why did they have to suffer for the wickedness of others? Why do disasters and suffering affect all men? |
No easy answers to 'fate' (disasters, disease etc), whether for good or ill. The hand of God is often shrouded in mystery. Sometimes it is obvious. Moses, Joshua and Caleb had to suffer 40 years in desert because Israel sinned. This chapter does not answer questions about what happens to us in this life. It is concerned with God's justice for our eternal destiny. 1. The soul that sins is the one that will die. v4,20 2. The man who is righteous will surely live. v9 3. If the wicked man turns from his sin he will not die. v21 4. If the righteous man commits sin he will die for it. v26 Therefore O house of Israel, ... declares the Sovereign Lord. Repent! ... Get a new heart and a new spirit ... I take no pleasure in the death of anyone. Repent and live! v30-32 Israel did not listen in the days of Amos. Amos 46-12 Jerusalem did not listen to Jeremiah or Ezekiel in Babylon. God is just. In UK we plead for mercy, but can we expect God to abandon his justice? |
| Ezek 191-14 A Lament. Who were these 3 evil kings? |
1. Pharaoh Neco took Jehoahaz to Egypt 609BC 2Kgs 2331-34 Jehoiakim submitted to Babylon in 605 but then rebelled. (also Jer 36) This evil king thrown over city walls. 598BC. Jer 2219 2kgs 2336-247 2. Jehoiachin reigned 3months, taken to Babylon. 597BC 2Kg 248-15 3. Zedekiah taken to Babylon 586BC 2Kgs 254-11 |
| Ezek 201-44 God's people rebelled in Egypt, the desert and in Canaan. Why? Why didn't God judge them then? How will it all end? |
They rebelled by desecrating the Sabbath and by worshipping idols. UK has done the same. We do not respect Sunday and rest in wonder at God's Creation and his salvation; but honour Evolution Theory + ourselves! God delayed his judgement for his Name's sake. Even in Babylon he tells them his judgement is not for ever. They would one day listen and obey. Later they would reject the Saviour, thought him unnecessary, no guilt of sin, and he didn't come to defeat the Romans. But today they have returned to their land again, and we again await their repentance and God's mercy. |
| Ezek 2045 - 2132 Whose hand was upon the sword? In such times is all hope destroyed? |
It was the Sovereign Lord who wielded the sword. (see 171-24) When the Lord brings 'Ruin', we are reminded it is not the end of the story. I will make it a ruin! It will not be restored until he comes to whom it rightfully belongs; to him I will give it. v27 The Lord will come again. He will establish his kingdom on all his land. Heb 27-9 Gen 4910 Lu 2125-28 |
| Ezek 221-31 What sins are listed? How much does this matter? |
Detestable idol worship + excuse for lewd acts, contempt for elderly and
aliens, desecrate Sabbath, adultery, bribery, excessive usury, and worst of
all you have forgotten me, declares the Sovereign Lord. God repeats that such wickedness will cause God to pour out his wrath! I looked for a man among them who would build up the wall and stand before me in the gap on behalf of the land so I would not have to destroy it, but I found none. v30. His wrath was only with great reluctance. |
| Ezek 231-49 What did these two prostitutes do? What warning does this have for UK? |
Oholah (Samaria) lusted after Assyrians who destroyed her. v5-10 Oholibah (Jerusalem) was worse and lusted after Babylon. v11-21 Both sisters began their idol worship in Egypt. V3 Therefore Oholibah ... I will stir up your lovers (Babylon) against you. v22 Since you have forgotten me ... you must bear the consequences ... v35,49 UK has had the Word of God in English for almost 6 centuries. But in the last 50 years we have repeatedly insulted/ignored God and his commandments. Our gov. (with Church approval) has legalised abortion and homosexuality, joined the evil-based EU, desecrated the Sabbath, taught evolution theory as truth, encouraged greed and debt ... We are without excuse and can thus expect God's judgement. When it comes, will we know that he is the Sovereign Lord ? |
| Ezek 241-27 Cooking pot boiled dry, and even the remains burnt. When and why did God enable Ezekiel to speak again? |
This very day Babylon laid siege to Jerusalem. God's warning was fulfilled. Ezekiel told not to mourn the death of 'the delight of his eyes', for God said, I am about to desecrate my sanctuary, the delight of your eyes. v21 You will not mourn but will waste away because of your sins and groan among yourselves. Ezekiel will be a sign to you. v23,24 Their mourning would not bring any relief - or rebuild the Temple. Only when the news came of God's destruction of Jerusalem, would Ezekiel speak again. |
| Ezek 25, 26 Why does God also judge Ammon, Moab, Edom, Philistia and Tyre? How must we also avoid such sin? |
Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he
will also reap. Gal 67 See also Jer 46-51 and Is 13-23. Each nation rejoiced at the downfall of Judah and saw an opportunity to strike their enemy when he was down with revenge and malice. But Israel remains God's chosen people. Ps 941-3,22,23 Is 269b 271 The church today should remember this and not act with superiority. Also be careful not to think 'thank you I am not as other men are!' |
| Ezek 27, 28 Tyre's view of herself c.f God's view? |
Tyre's trade enabled her prosperity and beauty to become the envy of many; but it turned to pride, self-sufficiency and sin - as it usually does! They were content without God, like 19th C. England who thought that they 'ruled the waves' and boasted 'the sun never set on her empire'. In the grace of God we were also enabled to send out many effective missionaries. God's verdict: You have come to a horrible end and will be no more. 2736 2819 May God's judgement lead us into humble and righteous dependance. |
| Ezek 29 - 32 Why was the Sovereign Lord angry with Egypt? And judge thus judge them? And all others like her. |
1. Egypt will become a desolate wasteland. ... Because you said, "The Nile
is mine; I made it." 299 God hated such arrogance. 306,18 2. They betrayed Israel when she called and paid for help. 2917-20 It seems that God gave Babylon the spoils of Egypt because after 17 years. But they got nothing from defeating Tyre. One day Egypt's destruction will lead to their knowing God is Lord. 296,9,16.21 308,19,25,26 One day Is 1919-25 will be fulfilled! What a day! Egypt was proud. Compared with tall majestic cedar of Lebanon. And like arrogant, demonic Babel! Thus God cut it down. 3212 He will also judge all those who shelter under this evil tree (EU). 3118 Not only Egypt, but also Assyria, Elam, Edom and Sidon. 3217-30 |
| Ezek 331-20 God's justice made clear. |
God's watchman has a profound duty to warn. This justice of God is very similar to 181-32 |
| Ezek 3321-33 Jerusalem had fallen. Did Ezekiel's message change? |
The people in Jerusalem presumed God's gift of land was still theirs. But God would make it a wasteland because of all their sin. v29 The people in Babylon heard God's word but failed to obey it. v31 Soon they would realise God's judgement of Jerusalem was true, and that the prophet (Jeremiah and Ezekiel) had spoken the truth. But then it would be too late. |
| Ezek 341-31 True c.f. false shepherds I will make with them a covenant of peace. (see file 'Ezek 34') |
False shepherds only cared for themselves; true shepherds give themselves
to search, rescue, tend, feed and strengthen their precious flocks. Ps 23 The 'Good Shepherd lays down his life for his sheep'. Jn 101-18 1 Pe 51-4 This Covenant is the New birth; the presence of Jesus gives us forgiveness, freedom, peace, protection and his righteousness. What a Shepherd! |
| Ezek 351 - 3615 Edom had 3 sins and judgements. |
1. Harboured ancient hostility. Therefore bloodshed will pursue you. 355,6 2/3. Coveted land of Israel, jealous of God's gift and rejoiced Israel exiled. So God will make himself known in Israel, 'my people', Israel will return and once more prosper, but Edom will be made desolate. 359-15 368-12 This is now being beautifully fulfilled. But the surrounding nations, and even distant people are jealous of the Jews! |
| Ezek 371-14 Who were the bones? Why so dry? Could they live? And where? If so, how? |
This chapter is one of the most enlightening in the Bible. Almighty God does
the seemingly impossible; he brings abundant life to the dead. These bones are the whole house of Israel. Primarily the Jews, Abraham and his descendants with whom God had made an everlasting covenant. In 586BC God had justly destroyed Jerusalem and even his own Temple. When all hope of life had gone, he prophesies life and return to their land. Prophesies to dry bones + prophesies to the breath (the Spirit). Dry bones 'heard' and gathered and the Spirit brought the revelation and life of God. This forgiveness and life can only come because Jesus laid down his life. |
| Ezek 3715-28 Who were the whole house of Israel? What is God's ultimate plan for them? |
This word reveals it is Israel who had been exiled by Assyrians in 712BC and
Judea that had been either killed or exiled to Babylon. Today they are seen being gathered together by God - like he had gathered the animals to Noah! - and are being drawn back in their own God-given land, on the mountains of Israel (Judea, 'West Bank'). The two nations (Israel and Judah) and being bound together again and best of all are slowly becoming a holy people. Then the nations will know that I the Lord make Israel holy, when my sanctuary is among them for ever. v28 Very soon Almighty God will fulfill this everlasting covenant of peace. v26. All today's sin and war will be over. |
| Ezek 38,39 |
Gog / Magog battle is only mentioned here and Rev 20. Its timing in Rev 20
is clearly after the return of Christ in Rev 19 when the Beast and his False
Prophet are thrown into hell. Then Satan is chained for 1,000 years and only
when released can he instigate this war. He is defeated by Christ. And the
devil, who deceived them, was thrown into the lake of burning sulfur, where
the beast and the false prophet had been thrown. Rev 2010 This timing of the battle at the end of the Millennium is confirmed in Ezekiel by the fact that Israel was living in unwalled villages as a peaceful and unsuspecting people. 3811 Israel has always been hated by the wicked world for the last 4,000 years! Peace will only come when Christ returns. Ezekiel records that Israel took 7 months to bury all the Gog bodies and then used their wooden weapons as fuel for 7 years. 399-16 This suggests a different timing. Zech 12 and 14 reveal how all nations under the Beast hate God's elect; they attack Israel at the end of the Great Tribulation and are defeated by the returning Christ. This battle is instigated by the satanic Beast; the Gog battle in Rev 20 is led by Satan himself. Whatever the timing these chapters confirm the hatred of Satan and his wicked followers for the all whom God has chosen and created and is contrasted with the compassion, grace and power of Almighty God. Therefore this is what the Sovereign Lord says: "I will now bring Jacob back from captivity and will have compassion on all the people of Israel, and I will be zealous for my holy name. They will forget their shame and all the unfaithfulness they showed toward me when they lived in safety in their land with no one to make them afraid. When I have brought them back from the nations and have gathered them from the countries of their enemies, I will show myself holy through them in the sight of many nations. Then they will know that I am the Lord their God, for though I sent them into exile among the nations, I will gather them to their own land, not leaving any behind. I will no longer hide my face from them, for I will pour out my Spirit on the house of Israel," declares the Sovereign Lord. 3925-29 |
| Ezek 401 - 4312 Ezekiel given important instructions. |
Son of man, look with your eyes and hear with your ears and pay attention to everything I am going to show you, for that is why you have been brought here. Tell the house of Israel everything you see ... that they may be ashamed of their sins. 404 4310 |
| Ezek 4313 - 4431 What do these regulations teach us about Christ and his offering? |
The Altar had to be cleansed. Christ alone is the perfect sacrifice. The east sanctuary gate was shut. Only Christ could enter and lead us in. No foreigner uncircumcised in heart and flesh is to enter my sanctuary. v9 Only faithful priests could enter. Christ is our faithful high priest. Heb 1019 The daily sacrifices all point to the one now complete sacrifice of Christ. Heb 723-28 911-15 108-14 |
| Ezek 45,46 Division of land and Offerings |
Prince (king, ruler) given fixed land - not more, and no oppression. Use accurate scales, bring special gifts, make atonement for sin, observe Passover and Sabbath. Live in righteousness, justice and truth. |
| Ezek 471-12 Water flowed from Temple to the E. How did it bring life? |
Holy of Holies (Sanctuary) was in the West So why is C of E altar/Table placed in the East? In Zech 148 the river is seen flowing both East and West. In Rev 22 the River of Life flows from the throne, but no direction revealed, In Rev and Ezek the trees on both banks are shown to give fruit every month and the leaves for healing will not wither. Ezek reveals the water makes Dead Sea fresh and enables many kinds of fish to thrive. Ps 464. Is 3321 On the last and greatest day of the Feast, Jesus stood and said in a loud voice, "If anyone is thirsty, let him come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, streams of living water will flow from within him." Jn 737 The presence of Jesus and his Spirit brings eternal life. "Come, all you who are thirsty, come to the waters; and you who have no money, come, buy and eat! ... Listen, listen to me, and eat what is good, and your soul will delight in the richest of fare. Give ear and come to me; hear me, that your soul may live. I will make an everlasting covenant with you. ... As the rain and the snow come down from heaven, ... so is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it. You will go out in joy and be led forth in peace; ... Instead of the thornbush will grow the pine tree, ... This will be for the Lord's renown, for an everlasting sign, which will not be destroyed." Is 551-13 |
| Ezek 4713 - 4835 Division of land. |
Ezekiel is shown the land divided to all 12 tribes, includes exiled (lost) Israel. God gives tribal responsibility, not 'communism', and includes aliens. City is named: The Lord is There. And indeed he is, and always will be. |
Daniel [Contents]
Outstanding leader and prophet - one you can trust.
And one I would love to hear his answers to questions of my curious mind.
| Dan 11-21 605 Daniel taken to Babylon Remained there for 66 years. |
After Nebuchadnezzar routed the Egyptians at Carchemesh, Jehoiakim submits. Daniel and 3 friends selected for 3 year university training in Babylon. Daniel resolved not to defile himself. This would be a life principle. As a teenager he showed determination, humility and tact in not wanting to eat meat and wine that had been offered to idols. Daniel + 3 have names changed. For significance of this see Bible study notes. Though an exile he was chosen by Nebuchadnezzar, and later Darius, to be PM. |
| Dan 11-49 God reveals future world empires |
Nebuchadnezzar was a young powerful warrior with dreams he didn't comprehend. So he told his 'wise men' that they had to tell him both the dream and its meaning - on pain of death! An unfair and impossible demand. Almighty God introduces himself to the king by doing this impossibility, by giving the answer to Daniel. His muddled variety of dreams were joined into one simple vision. God then told him 2,500 years of future world history! "There is a God in heaven who reveals mysteries. He has shown King Nebuchadnezzar what will happen in days to come." The statue of gold, silver, bronze and iron - the future world empires of Babylon, Persia, Greece and Rome, is just the beginning of the dream. Next, of great significance, is the statue's feet. They were a weak, unstable mix of iron and clay. (Today we are beginning to see this in world governments.) But of far greater importance is the last part of the dream. As you looked, a stone was cut out by no human hand. And this 'stone' would smash the whole statue, which was then seen to be blown away like chaff in the wind. The God of heaven will set up a kingdom that will never be destroyed. ... The great God has shown the king what will take place in the future. The dream is true and the interpretation is trustworthy. All this truth Almighty God chose to reveal to a pagan, super-power ruler who was just starting his march upon the world stage. A proud king, who after 40 years with Daniel, was humbled as he bowed before the King of Kings. The first 3 chapters of Daniel tell the story of God's dealing with this man. And the 4th chapter is the testimony written by Nebuchadnezzar of how he became a servant of the most High God. In these days of instability, strife and approaching tribulation, the reliable revelation of God's plan in this chapter to establish his eternal kingdom, will prove to be of huge benefit to suffering believers. |
| Dan 31-30 What was burnt in the fiery furnace? Hananiah, Mishael and Azariah were not even singed! |
Nebuchadnezzar was deeply moved by the revelation of his dreams, but emotions often change far quicker than does the heart of man. In just a few months, his had concentrated upon the head of gold, and all the rest of the dream was forgotten. He constructed a huge 90ft golden image a short distance to the west of Babylon so that the rising sun reflected its glory. And he commanded everyone to worship the image. (I wonder if the image resembled Nebuchadnezzar?!) Hananiah, Mishael and Azariah (to keep to their proper Hebrew names) refused. In fury the king had them thrown into the overheated furnace. So hot that even the picked soldiers who threw them in were consumed. Nebuchadnezzar was more than a little amazed to see the three men walking in the flames, and a 4th man was walking with them, even brighter than the fire. Such is the brilliance of Almighty God. Only the ropes that bound the men - and of course Nebuchadnezzar's pride, were burned! For the second time the hand of God had greatly impressed this mighty king. The three Jews were promoted. But there is no mention of the statue being removed. The lack of real repentance did not cause the Lord God to give up on his servant Nebuchadnezzar. There had to be one more step before he was truly humbled. The next chapter reveals this final step in the fascinating story of Almighty God dealing with one of the world's greatest despots. Daniel is not mentioned, so he was obviously away somewhere. |
| Dan 41-37 Nebuchadnezzar is truly humbled. |
This is the only OT chapter (a full testimony) to be written by a Gentile. Nebuchadnezzar sees the truth: the Most High God ... his kingdom is an eternal kingdom; his dominion endures from generation to generation. Not like Babylon! He tells how God warned him in a dream about a felled tree that Daniel correctly interpreted. But 12 months later he ignored what the Most High had said. He spent seven times living like an animal; but was then restored. He concluded: Now I, Nebuchadnezzar, praise and exalt and glorify the King of heaven, because everything he does is right and all his ways are just. And those who walk in pride he is able to humble. Jewish tradition teaches that Daniel maintained the king's reign while waiting for his restoration. A very different conclusion from that of his successor, Belshazzar! |
| Dan 51-31 A blasphemous banquet, Babylon falls. |
If Belshazzar knew that the Persians were not far away; he did not care - he thought Babylon was totally secure. So he gave a great party for 1000 to prove it. They drank the wine, they praised the gods of gold and silver, of bronze, iron, wood and stone. And they drank from the gold goblets that had been taken from the temple of God in Jerusalem to celebrate that Babylon was greater than Almighty God - Such public blasphemy would be catastrophic - immediately! Suddenly the fingers of a human hand appeared and wrote on the plaster of the wall, near the lampstand in the royal palace. As God's verdict was being written where everyone could see it clearly, the hall would have suddenly become silent. But no one could understand the words. So King Belshazzar became even more terrified. Daniel was summoned and knew immediately the meaning. But refusing all reward, he first reminded Belshazzar about Nebuchadnezzar and the 'Tree' and thus how he learned that the Most High God is sovereign over the kingdoms of men and sets over them anyone he wishes. But you his son, O Belshazzar, have not humbled yourself, though you knew all this. Instead, you have set yourself up against the Lord of heaven. ... Therefore ... MENE, MENE, TEKEL, PARSIN. Mene: God has numbered the days of your reign and brought it to an end. Tekel: You have been weighed on the scales and found wanting. Parsin: Your kingdom is divided and given to the Medes and Persians. God had arranged for the Persian engineers to divert the Euphrates so that their army could march up the dried river bed into the city of Babylon. That very night Belshazzar, king of the Babylonians, was slain. The day will come when the publicly blasphemous EU* (and UK if we insist in remaining part of it) will be destroyed in a single hour !! Beware !! Jer 518 and Rev 188,10 All Rev 17 + 18 and Dan 5 have much in common. The wise will learn and obey - "Come out of her, my people ..." Rev 184 The Lord God has placed Dan 4 and Dan 5 next to each other for good reason. Let us all learn from the life conclusion of these two kings. * See EU advert of Babel 'Many nations, one voice', EU parliament building at Strasbourg designed on 'Babel', 'woman on the beast' statue outside EU Council building in Brussels. The Pergamon pagan altar transported to Berlin. (for starters!) |
| Dan 61-28 Daniel and the Medo-Persian king. |
Daniel 1-6 is all about how God ordered the events in Babylon with a succession of kings - Nebuchadnezzar, Belshazzar and now Darius - using his servant Daniel. Almighty God made him to be a righteous man with clearly exceptional talent. A Jewish exile from a defeated enemy, Daniel now over 80 years old was chosen by Darius to be one of the 3 chief administrators in his kingdom. Amazing. And it caused jealously and hatred on a big scale. Knowing that Daniel prayed 3 times a day to his God for Jerusalem (he had done so every day for over 60 years), they devised a deceitful plan that resulted in one of the most well known Bible stories. Daniel spent a whole night with an angel and a pride of hungry lions who never touched him. Like the other kings, Darius was impressed and delighted. He came to the same right conclusion as Nebuchadnezzar, "For he is the living God and he endures forever; his kingdom will not be destroyed, his dominion will never end." And Daniel left a legacy that one day a Messiah would come to reign in Jerusalem. A legacy that may have brought the Magi to come to find Christ, in Bethlehem. |
| Dan 71-28 4 kingdoms, 10 kings + another king War against the saints until ... then everlasting Kingdom of God. |
The book now moves from Daniel's present (553 BC) to the far distant future. It starts with a similar vision of the statue that God revealed to Nebuchadnezzar. The 4 empires of Babylon, Medo-Persian, Greece and finally Rome. 4 great beasts are these same 4 empires, as God sees them, they came up out of the sea; out of the chaos of Gentile endeavour, wicked, satanic, destructive and terrifying. As also the beast in Rev 13. c.f. as man sees them as gold, silver, bronze, iron and cultured ! Lion with wings, one wing torn off, stood on two feet, given heart of a man. Bear, 3 ribs in its mouth, told, 'Get up and eat your fill of flesh!' Leopard with 4 wings, 4 heads, given authority to rule. 4th beast so terrifying it had no name, iron teeth to devour victims, trampling feet. Different from all the former beasts, and it had ten horns. Then another little horn grew and uprooted 3 /10 horns. It had eyes like the eyes of a man and a mouth that spoke boastfully. Then the Ancient of Days took his seat. The beast was slain and other beasts stripped of authority for short time. Son of man given authority and glory and all nations worshipped him. His dominion is an everlasting dominion that will not pass away. Daniel troubled and given the interpretation: 'The four great beasts are four kingdoms that will rise from the earth. But the saints of the Most High will receive the kingdom and will possess it forever.' Daniel wanted to know more about the 4th beast, the 10 horns + the boastful horn. As I watched, this horn was waging war against the saints and defeating them, until the Ancient of Days came and pronounced judgment in favour of the saints of the Most High, and the time came when they possessed the kingdom. Explanation: 4th kingdom will devour the whole earth. 10 horns are 10 kings who will come from this kingdom. Another different king will arise and subdue 3 of these kings. He will speak against the Most High and oppress his saints for 3½ years. He will try to change the set times and the laws. But the court will sit, and his power will be taken away and completely destroyed forever. And the sovereignty ... handed over to the saints. His kingdom will be an everlasting kingdom. Daniel was deeply troubled.
And so should all men be who read this earnestly wanting to understand it. |
| Dan 81-27 The Ram and the Goat and the Master of Intrigue. |
Dan 8-12 were written in Hebrew (1-7 in Aramaic). 551BC Daniel ~70. Ram with 2 horns - Medes and Persians. Did as he pleased and became great. Goat strikes ram furiously and destroys it. It's single horn (Alexander) broken and 4 horns replace it. One of them (Selucids) grew and attacked 'Beautiful Land' (Israel). Took away the daily sacrifice, prospered ... and truth was thrown to the ground. How long will it take ... ? 2,300 evenings and mornings ... then sanctuary will be reconsecrated. Antiochus' priest offered pig to Zeus on Temple altar 164 to 167 BC x2/day for 1150 days. Then defeated by the Maccabees. Now celebrated in the Jewish feast of Hanukkah. All exactly as revealed to Daniel 400 years earlier. As before, Daniel wanted to know more, so God sent Gabriel to tell him about king Antiochus and also about what will happen later in the time of wrath, because the vision concerns the appointed time of the end. ... "In the latter part of their reign, when rebels have become completely wicked, a stern-faced king, a master of intrigue, will arise. He will become very strong, but not by his own power. He will cause astounding devastation and will succeed in whatever he does. He will destroy the mighty men and the holy people. He will cause deceit to prosper, and he will consider himself superior. When they feel secure, he will destroy many and take his stand against the Prince of princes. Yet he will be destroyed, but not by human power. ... The vision ... concerns the distant future." The rule of the Beast and his False Prophet in Rev 13 and his defeat by the returning Jesus Christ in Rev 19. |
| Dan 91-27 Daniel now 80, pleads with Yahweh, the covenant keeping God of Israel. |
Begins with true heartfelt contrition. "We have sinned and done wrong ... All Israel has transgressed your law and turned away, refusing to obey you. ... all this disaster has come upon us, yet we have not sought the favour of the Lord our God by turning from our sins and giving attention to your truth. ... Now, our God, hear the prayers and petitions of your servant. ... O Lord, see the desolation of the city that bears your Name. ... O Lord, listen! O Lord, forgive! O Lord, hear and act! For your sake, O my God, do not delay." So God sent Gabriel again. "Daniel, I have now come to give you insight and understanding. As soon as you began to pray, an answer was given." The answer Almighty God gave was the most significant verse in the OT. "Seventy 'sevens' are decreed for your people and your holy city to finish transgression, to put an end to sin, to atone for wickedness, to bring in everlasting righteousness, to seal up vision and prophecy and to anoint the most holy." We may not be able to discern the precise time of the 'seventy sevens', but it is sufficient to know that Almighty God had a definite time for both the redemption and for the coming of his eternal and righteous kingdom. This glorious truth is the legacy that Daniel left (see notes on Dan 6). Gabriel then continues to tell him some details as to how this will come to pass. From the issuing of the decree to restore and rebuild Jerusalem until the Anointed One, the ruler, comes, there will be seven 'sevens', and sixty-two 'sevens'. It will be rebuilt with streets and a trench, but in times of trouble. There were several decrees so the start date in uncertain. 7x (7+62) = 483. Does this refer to the birth or crucifixion of Jesus? Is the 'times of trouble' the rule of Rome? The Anointed One will be cut off and will have nothing. The Saviour was willing to be crucified stark naked to redeem us. The people of the ruler who will come will destroy the city and the sanctuary. Rome destroyed Jerusalem and the Temple in 70 AD. Jews exiled. The end will come like a flood: War will continue until the end, and desolations have been decreed. World destruction by proud, greedy men continues in spite of pleas for peace. He will confirm a covenant with many for one 'seven.' In the middle of the 'seven' he will put an end to sacrifice and offering. And on a wing of the temple he will set up an abomination that causes desolation, until the end that is decreed is poured out on him. 'He' is the satanic world ruler, who breaks any covenant, who persecutes Christians and who reigns for half of the final 7 years. (See also Dan 7,8) His rule is ended, not by man, but by the return of the King of Kings. All this Gabriel revealed to Daniel 2,500 years ago! |
| Dan 101-21 536 BC Daniel mourns for 3 weeks. |
Daniel sees a glorious angel on the river bank. He comes and speaks to him:
"Do not be afraid, Daniel. Since the first day that you set your mind to gain understanding and to humble yourself before your God, your words were heard. ... Now I have come to explain to you what will happen to your people in the future, for the vision concerns a time yet to come. ... Soon I will return to fight against the prince of Persia, and when I go, the prince of Greece will come; but first I will tell you what is written in the Book of Truth. No one supports me against them except Michael, your prince." The angel strengthens Daniel. |
| Dan 111-35 Precise prophecies from the Persian kings to Antiochus IV. |
These prophecies are so accurate that some claim they were written much later. But the angel revealed them all to Daniel in the first year of Darius the Mede. |
| Dan 1136-45 More revelation about the last days. |
The king will do as he pleases. He will exalt and magnify himself above every god and will say unheard-of things against the God of gods. He will be successful until the time of wrath is completed.
He will engage in 'World war', invade Israel and annihilate many. ... He will pitch his royal tents between the seas at the beautiful holy mountain. Yet he will come to his end, and no one will help him. It will be the Lord God himself who will return and defeat this wholly satanic being. Rev 19 Zech 12 and 14 |
| Dan 121-13 The ‘Book’ is sealed until the end. Then its truth is seen. |
"At that time Michael, the great prince who protects your people, will arise. There will be a time of distress such as has not happened from the beginning of nations until then. But at that time your people shall be delivered, everyone whose name is found written in the book–will be delivered. ... But you, Daniel, shut up the words and seal the book, until the time of the end. ... Go your way, Daniel, for the words are shut up and sealed until the time of the end."
This great truth will encourage the saints, Jew and Gentile, and enable them to stand, as did the Reformation martyrs who were burned, and many since. The righteous will be victorious and overcome them by the blood of the Lamb. Rev 1211 But we must be ready for the last 3½ years when the power of the holy people has been finally broken, all these things will be completed. ... None of the wicked will understand, but those who are wise will understand. The book is sealed to keep it safe and to guarantee its authority. Many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall increase. But not wisdom! The wise will be alert, expectant, prepared; not deceived nor distracted. The Word of God will instruct us, but we need to read and believe all of it. May all believers become diligent concerning these truths revealed to Daniel. They remain God's chosen instrument to save us in these days of great tribulation. |
Hosea [Contents]
Hosea began preaching in ~760 BC at the same time as Amos. Same message, but very different style. Northern tribes of Israel were enjoying prosperity, moral decay, and had rejected God. They focussed on creation, not the Creator. Religion flourished; but it was the worship of 'Mother Nature', Baal and Astarte and golden calves at Bethel and Dan. Like the bronze bull and calf outside the new stock-exchange building in Frankfurt. Hosea's life and experience would mirror much of the relationship between Almighty God and Israel. Hosea means "salvation of the Lord." He hated the life-style of Israel, he pleaded with God. But what would God do? What could he do? This book has a surprising answer to both these questions.
| Hosea 11-11 Hosea's wife and children |
The word of the Lord that came to Hosea ... God spoke to Hosea clearly. As with other prophets there was no mistaking his voice, no doubt about what he had heard. "Go, take to yourself a wife of whoredom and have children of whoredom, for the land commits great whoredom by forsaking the Lord." This was not what this young, righteous man wanted to hear! How could his marrying a prostitute honour God? And what has it got to do with Israel forsaking the Lord? But he obeyed. So he went and took Gomer, (married her) and she conceived and bore him a son. But when it came to naming the child, I expect there was little agreement. The Lord said to him, "Call his name Jezreel, for in just a little while ... I will put an end to the kingdom of the house of Israel." They had a second child, a daughter with a significant name! "Call her name No Mercy, for I will no more have mercy on the house of Israel, to forgive them at all." There was an addition to the Lord's explanation that concerned their rival, Judah: But I will have mercy on the house of Judah, and I will save them by the Lord their God. I will not save them by bow or by sword. The only way to save Judah, or any man, would be by the blood of the crucified Son of God. Their 3rd child was a son. And the Lord said, "Call his name Not My People, for you are not my people, and I am not your God." This name may well have a personal application. Hosea was probably not the father. We find in Hos 3 that Gomer had gone back to whoredom. But in the national sense, the northern tribes of Israel would be cast off, exiled for their unrepented sin. "Yet", a little word with a hugely important prophetic revelation: Yet the number of the children of Israel shall be like the sand of the sea, which cannot be measured or numbered. And in the place where it was said to them, "You are not my people," it shall be said to them, "Children of the living God." Such is the extent of God's grace and mercy, he reveals that 'No Mercy' is not the end of the story. There will come a day when even rebellious, immoral Israel will return to her Lord and Redeemer. Amid all the anguish of an unfaithful wife and a broken marriage, God tells Hosea it can, and will, be restored. But the road will be rough. |
| Hosea 21-13 The Lord pleads and punishes |
Here we find the Creator, the Lord of Glory pleading with man - amazing! "Plead with your mother, plead—for she is not my wife, ... For their mother has played the whore ... Therefore I will hedge up her way with thorns, and I will build a wall against her, so that she cannot find her paths. ... And I will put an end to all her mirth ... I will punish her for she went after her lovers and forgot me," declares the Lord. Love weeps, but Justice demands punishment. We find them alternating or together throughout the history of Israel. Read the roller-coaster book of judges. Ask why, how, and when does the Lord stretch out his hand to a disobedient people? |
| Hosea 214-23 Mercy |
"Therefore, behold, I will allure her, and bring her into the wilderness, and speak tenderly to her. ... And there she shall answer as in the days of her youth ..." "And in that day, declares the Lord, you will call me 'My Husband,' and no longer will you call me 'My Baal.' ..." All the idols will be burnt and the gift of righteousness appreciated. I will abolish the bow, the sword, and war from the land ... In the kingdom of God there will be no war, no pain, no death, no sin. And I will betroth you to me forever in righteousness and in justice, in steadfast love and in mercy. I will betroth you to me in faithfulness. What a day that will be! How can it come to pass? Hosea provides the answer. |
| Hosea 31-5 Redemption |
The Lord said to me, "Go again, love a woman who is loved by another man and is an adulteress, even as the Lord loves the children of Israel ..." So I bought her for fifteen shekels of silver and a homer and a lethech of barley. The 'other man' did not love her; there is no love in Satan's deception. To win her back he had to pay a price. Hosea paid a modest price. Jesus had to pay the very maximum. Death on a roman cross. Hosea insists on one thing from Gomer: "You must dwell as mine for many days. You shall not play the whore, or belong to another man; so will I also be to you." And not just for 'many days', but for ever. The Lord expects us to consistently live in righteousness and truth. So we find interwoven in Hosea's life, God's plan of redemption. And the answer to why? and how? God also reveals to Hosea when? Afterward the children of Israel shall return and seek the Lord their God, and David their king, and they shall come in fear to the Lord and to his goodness in the latter days. Of course it is true for individuals - Jews and Gentiles, that God reveals his mercy and redeems us now. But in the 'latter days' when 'the times of the Gentiles' are complete, then 'all Israel will be saved'. Ro 1125,26 For Hosea this glorious day of national righteousness and truth must have seemed a long way off. And for us, living 2,750 years later, it still seems distant as the world-wide wickedness and deception grows. Let us hold fast to the Word of God, revealed and proven to be true. |
| Hosea 41-19 God's accurate accusation |
The Lord has a controversy with the inhabitants of the land: There is no faithfulness or steadfast love, and no knowledge of God in the land. There is swearing, lying, murder, stealing, adultery and bloodshed. ... My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge ... you have forgotten the law of your God. My people inquire of a piece of wood ... they have left their God to play the whore. Conclusion? A people without understanding shall come to ruin. The last days will be the same, only worse. See 2Tim 31-5 And the consequences will be the same, only worse. Why are men so blind and deaf and arrogant? |
| Hosea 51-15 God's warnings ignored |
Hear this, O priests! ... With their flocks for sacrifice, they go to seek the Lord, but they will not find him. Religious activity will never save a man who refuses to repent. Blow the horn, ... Sound the alarm ... Ephraim shall become a desolation in the day of punishment. Even all the Tribulation events will not cause men to cry for mercy. After the 7th trumpet has sounded loud and clear, God sends 3 flying angels. The 1st with a loud voice warns the whole earth that the hour of his judgement has come. But stubborn, foolish men will always ignore the warning. |
| Hosea 61 - 814 False hope False repentance |
Come, let us return to the Lord; for he has torn us, that he may heal us ... After two days he will revive us; on the third day he will raise us up ... They vainly thought that their sacrifices would bring quick, easy healing, But their love is like a morning cloud, like the dew that goes early away. It had no heartfelt substance, no real repentance; only mild regret that hopes to escape the consequences of sin. Like a costless, cross-less salvation that is often preached today So Hosea told them what God expected: For I desire steadfast love and not sacrifice, the knowledge of God rather than burnt offerings. ... They dealt faithlessly with me. They do not consider that I remember all their evil. ... They do not return to the Lord their God, nor seek him, for all this. ... They do not cry to me from the heart, but they wail upon their beds. With their silver and gold they made idols for their own destruction. I have spurned your calf, O Samaria. (The golden calves in Bethel and Dan) |
| Hosea 91 - 1015 The consequences of sin |
Rejoice not, O Israel! ... for you have played the whore, forsaking your God. They shall not remain in the land of the Lord. But go into exile. The days of punishment have come; ... because of your great iniquity. ... My God will reject them because they have not listened to him; they shall be wanderers among the nations. ... Israel is a luxuriant vine ... The more his fruit increased, the more altars he built. Their heart is false; now they must bear their guilt. ... |
| Hosea 111 - 1316 How can I give you up, O Ephraim? |
In spite of their determined sinfulness, God still yearned for Israel. He would never give up his love or his covenant with them. The more they were called, the more they went away; Yet it was I who taught Ephraim to walk; ... and I became to them as one who eases the yoke on their jaws, and I bent down to them and fed them. Almighty God would have to punish them by exile. They shall not return to the land of Egypt, but Assyria shall be their king, because they have refused to return to me. I will not again destroy Ephraim. ... I am the Lord your God from the land of Egypt; I will again make you dwell in tents, as in the days of the appointed feast. ... I shall ransom them from the power of Sheol; I shall redeem them from Death. O Death, where are your plagues? O Sheol, where is your sting? Compassion is hidden from my eyes. |
| Hosea 141-9 Final words of wisdom |
There is only one solution. Hosea finishes as he began - a plea for repentance. Return, O Israel, to the Lord your God, for you have stumbled because of your iniquity. When they cease from idol worship, then they will find mercy. I will heal their apostasy; I will love them freely, for my anger has turned from them. I will be like the dew to Israel; he shall blossom like the lily. ... They shall return and dwell beneath my shadow. Whoever is wise, let him understand these things; whoever is discerning, let him know them; for the ways of the Lord are right, and the upright walk in them, but transgressors stumble in them. Here is wisdom. Why does it take so long to impact our hearts? |
Joel [Contents]
There is no accurate date for when Joel ministered, or where. But from the text it is quite probable that he preached primarily to Jerusalem at or soon after Amos and Hosea ministered in Israel. He prophesied concerning the judgement of God upon Israel and Judah in his day and especially in the last days.
| Joel 11-12 'Locusts' |
As with all true prophets he spoke because The word of the Lord that came to Joel. He uses a recent locust devastation to reveal God's judgement. Many were deaf to the idea that Israel and Judah deserved any judgement. Hear this, you elders; give ear, all inhabitants of the land! What the cutting locust left, the swarming locust has eaten. What the swarming locust left, the hopping locust has eaten, and what the hopping locust left, the destroying locust has eaten. This had actually happened, but it was symbolic of the devastation that would soon be ordered by the Lord by an attacking nation. (Probably Assyria) For a nation has come up against my land, powerful and beyond number; its teeth are lions' teeth ... It has laid waste my vine ... and gladness dries up from the children of man. |
| Joel 113 - 217 Call to repent |
Put on sackcloth and lament, O priests ... Consecrate a fast ... and cry out to the Lord. Alas for the day! For the day of the Lord is near, and as destruction from the Almighty it comes. ... To you, O Lord, I call. For fire has devoured the pastures ... But the people seemed deaf to the warnings of Almighty God. How could he alert the sleeping, rebellious people? Blow a trumpet in Zion; sound an alarm on my holy mountain! Let all the inhabitants of the land tremble, for the day of the Lord is coming; it is near, a day of darkness and gloom, a day of clouds and thick darkness! Their like has never been before, nor will be again after them. This prophecy may refer to the Assyrian onslaught on Israel, but primarily it must be to the last days. (See Math 2421) The earth quakes before them; the heavens tremble. The sun and the moon are darkened, and the stars withdraw their shining. ... For the day of the Lord is great and very awesome; who can endure it? Having given his warning, the Lord God makes yet another plea for us to repent. "Yet even now," declares the Lord, "return to me with all your heart, with fasting, with weeping, and with mourning; and rend your hearts and not your garments. Return to the Lord your God, for he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love." |
| Joel 218-27 The day of restoration |
On that day Israel will look upon him whom they had pierced; and mourn. They will repent and see the cleansing fountain. Zech 1210 - 131 Then the Lord became jealous for his land and had pity on his people. ... and I will no more make you a reproach among the nations. "Be glad, O children of Zion, and rejoice in the Lord your God, he has poured down for you abundant rain. I will restore to you the years that the swarming locust has eaten, my great army, which I sent among you. ... You shall know that I am in the midst of Israel, and that I am the Lord your God and there is none else. And my people shall never again be put to shame." |
| Joel 228-32 My Spirit on earth |
"It shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh; ... And I will show wonders in the heavens and on the earth, blood and fire and columns of smoke. The sun shall be turned to darkness, and the moon to blood, before the great and awesome day of the Lord comes. And it shall come to pass that everyone who calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved." |
| Joel 31-16 Gathered for war |
At the end of the tribulation Jesus will return to win the war and save Israel. "For behold, in those days and at that time, when I restore the fortunes of Judah and Jerusalem, I will gather all the nations and bring them down to the Valley of Jehoshaphat. And I will enter into judgment with them there, on behalf of my people and my heritage Israel, because they have scattered them among the nations and have divided up my land." Very few nations have any respect for Israel; but they're still God's 'chosen people'. The UN and most world leaders have done their best to divide the land of Israel; Land which Almighty God gave to Israel by unconditional eternal covenant. Gen 177,8 God tells Israel: Consecrate for war; ... Beat your plowshares into swords, and your pruning hooks into spears. For the last time! God tells the nations: Let the nations stir themselves up and come up to the Valley of Jehoshaphat; for there I will sit to judge all the surrounding nations. The Lord roars from Zion, and utters his voice from Jerusalem, and the heavens and the earth quake. But the Lord is a refuge to his people, a stronghold to the people of Israel. Almighty God will prove the accuracy of his word to all the world. None will be able to doubt his faithfulness and power to do what he says. |
| Joel 317-21 The glorious future |
"So you shall know that I am the Lord your God, who dwells in Zion, my holy mountain. And Jerusalem shall be holy, and strangers shall never again pass through it. ... Egypt shall become a desolation and Edom a desolate wilderness, for the violence done to the people of Judah. But Judah shall be inhabited forever, and Jerusalem to all generations. I will avenge their blood, blood I have not avenged, for the Lord dwells in Zion." This must surely be the best promise for Zion, that the Lord will dwell with them. Perfect security, no more deceit, surrounded by love, truth and righteousness. |
Amos [Contents]
In ~760BC the northern tribes of Israel had enjoyed 30 years of peace. Jeroboam II was the 14th of 20 evil, idol-worshipping kings. They worshipped Baal for prosperity and Asherah for sex. They were wealthy, morally corrupt, spiritually smug and ignored Almighty God and his commandments. But God had made a covenant with Abraham and his descendants and was determined to give them every opportunity to repent before he punished them. So he sent a trio of prophets - Amos, Hosea and Joel to warn Israel.
| Amos 11,2 The Lord roars!! |
Amos was from Tekoa, 10 miles S. of Jerusalem, so from Judah. A foreign farmer. He began to preach: "The Lord roars from Zion and thunders from Jerusalem ..." No softly, softly approach, but direct and above all - true. Almighty God was not pleased with Israel, his chosen people |
| Amos 13 - 23 Surrounding nations |
God starts with the charges and punishments against 6 surrounding nations. 1. Damascus. Extreme cruelty thus fire, destruction and exile. 2. Gaza. Sold defeated enemies as slaves. Thus Philistines will die and fortresses destroyed. 3. Tyre. Sold defeated enemies as slaves. Thus fortress will be destroyed. 4. Edom. Angry and stifled all compassion. Thus fortresses destroyed. 5. Ammon. Ripped open pregnant women to extend borders. Thus fortresses destroyed. 6. Moab. Burned bones of Edom's king. Thus death and fortresses destroyed. What does God say about the cruelty and motives for all the various wars today? |
| Amos 24,5 Nearer home |
What about Judah and their sin? "For three sins of Judah, even for four, I will not turn back my wrath. Because they have rejected the law of the Lord and have not kept his decrees, because they have been led astray by false gods, I will send fire upon Judah that will consume the fortresses of Jerusalem." Judah may be 'chosen', but they would not escape punishment. |
| Amos 26-12 Amos hits the 'bullseye' |
Israel had probably listened with smug agreement to the charges and punishments against the other nations. Now the searchlight of the Sovereign Lord fell upon Israel. The charge sheet was longer, more detailed. But how would they react? They sell the righteous for silver, and the needy for a pair of sandals. They trample on the heads of the poor as upon the dust of the ground They deny justice to the oppressed. Father and son use the same girl and so profane my holy name. They lie down beside every altar on garments taken in pledge. In the house of their god they drink wine taken as fines. ... You made the Nazirites drink wine and commanded the prophets not to prophesy. |
| Amos 213 - 315 The verdict |
If it was right for the other nations to be punished; why not Israel? So God declared: "Now then, I will crush you ... the swift will not escape ..." Therefore I will punish you for all your sins. ... Crime and punishment go together as darkness and light together make a day. Do two walk together unless they have agreed to do so? Does a lion roar in the thicket when he has no prey? When a trumpet sounds in a city, do not the people tremble? So also Surely the Sovereign Lord does nothing without revealing his plan to his servants the prophets. And now Amos was warning the people of Israel. The lion has roared– who will not fear? ... Therefore this is what the Sovereign Lord says: "An enemy will overrun the land; he will pull down your strongholds and plunder your fortresses. ... I will destroy the altars of Bethel I will tear down the winter house along with the summer house." This is the same punishment that God would justly mete out to the other nations. |
| Amos 41-5 More crime and punishment |
Hear this word, you cows of Bashan ... Amos was not shy to call a spade by its name. You women who oppress the poor and crush the needy and say to your husbands, "Bring us some drinks!" And the verdict? "The time will surely come when you will be taken away with hooks." This was how the Assyrians would take them away as a line of slaves, some 15 years later. What a transformation from their present lifestyle! But that is what comes when people ignore God's warning. |
| Amos 46-13 I gave you ... yet you have not returned to me |
The Sovereign Lord sent a series of trials / disasters upon Israel hoping that they would see them as the corrective / warning hand of God. 1. I gave you empty stomachs in every city ... 2. I also withheld rain from you ... One field had rain; another had none ... 3. I struck your gardens and vineyards, I struck them with blight and mildew ... 4. I sent plagues ... I killed your young men with the sword ... 5. I overthrew some of you as I overthrew Sodom and Gomorrah ... Yet you have not returned to me. Therefore ... prepare to meet your God, O Israel. The people never thought that their God would do such a thing. Perhaps they even blamed God for their misfortune. Repentance and pleading for mercy never entered their minds. |
| Amos 51-17 Invitation declined. Content without God |
Their unwillingness to hear God or to admit any personal fault would lead to death. Fallen is Virgin Israel, never to rise again. Exiled Israel never returned after 722BC. This is what the Lord says to the house of Israel: "Seek me and live ..." Such a gracious invitation was a day of opportunity; but it was rejected. You who turn justice into bitterness and cast righteousness to the ground ... You hate the one who reproves in court and despise him who tells the truth. You trample on the poor ... You oppress the righteous and take bribes and you deprive the poor of justice ... Yet the Lord continues to plead with them: Seek good, not evil, that you may live. ... Perhaps the Lord God Almighty will have mercy on the remnant of Joseph. They stubbornly refused Therefore this is what the Lord, the Lord God Almighty, says: "There will be wailing in all the streets ... There will be wailing in all the vineyards, for I will pass through your midst." What about today? Will anyone hear the Lord and respond in tears. Or will we fail to learn from this sad story? |
| Amos 518-27 The Day of the Lord Darkness, not light |
Woe to you who long for the day of the Lord! ... That day will be darkness, not light. I hate, I despise your religious feasts ... though you bring me burnt offerings ... I will not accept them. Away with the noise of your songs! I will not listen to the music of your harps. But let justice roll on like a river, righteousness like a never-failing stream! You have lifted up the shrine of your king, the pedestal of your idols ... Therefore I will send you into exile beyond Damascus, says the Lord, whose name is God Almighty. There is no possible excuse. This just judgement requires no explanation. |
| Amos 61-14 "Woe to you" |
Woe to you who are complacent in Zion, and to you who feel secure on Mount Samaria, you notable men of the foremost nation ... You dine on choice lambs ... You drink wine by the bowlful ... But you do not grieve over the ruin of Joseph. Therefore you will be among the first to go into exile; your feasting and lounging will end. For ever! Blind to their sin and its consequence. No cry to God for mercy. Such is the way of pride and complacency. The Lord God Almighty declares: "I abhor the pride of Jacob ... I will stir up a nation against you, O house of Israel ..." |
| Amos 71-9 Locusts, Fire, Plumb line |
How did Amos react to preaching God's judgment all the time? Locusts This is what the Sovereign Lord showed me: He was preparing swarms of locusts ... When they had stripped the land clean, I cried out, "Sovereign Lord, forgive! How can Jacob survive? He is so small!" So the Lord relented. "This will not happen," the Lord said. Fire The Sovereign Lord was calling for judgment by fire; it dried up the great deep and devoured the land. Then I cried out, "Sovereign Lord, I beg you, stop! How can Jacob survive? He is so small!" So the Lord relented. "This will not happen either," the Sovereign Lord said. Plumb line The Lord was standing by a wall that had been built true to plumb, with a plumb line in his hand. And the Lord asked me, "What do you see, Amos?" "A plumb line," I replied. Then the Lord said, "Look, I am setting a plumb line among my people Israel; I will spare them no longer. ... with my sword I will rise against the house of Jeroboam." There comes a day when the Lord no longer listens to pleas for mercy. Remember Abraham pleading for Lot in Sodom. Gen 1816-33 And Jeremiah pleading for Jerusalem. Jer 716-29 1114 1411 |
| Amos 710-17 Persecution |
Amaziah the priest of Bethel (where there was a golden calf idol. 1Kgs 1228,29) complains to Jeroboam II, and says to Amos: "O seer, go, flee away to the land of Judah, and eat bread there, and prophesy there, but never again prophesy at Bethel, for it is the king's sanctuary, and it is a temple of the kingdom." |
| Amos 81-14 Summer fruit = the end |
Amos is shown a vision of a basket of summer fruit, and is asked what he sees? He replies, "A basket of summer fruit." Then the Lord said to me, "The end has come upon my people Israel ..." The significance is completely lost in English. In Hebrew summer fruit = 'qayis' and end = 'qes'. This whole vision is about the immanent end of Israel. "Behold, the days are coming," declares the Lord God, "when I will send a famine on the land—not a famine of bread, nor a thirst for water, but of hearing the words of the Lord. They shall wander from sea to sea, and from north to east; they shall run to and fro, to seek the word of the Lord, but they shall not find it. ... they shall fall, and never rise again." To never to hear the Word of the Lord is death. This is the end. |
| Amos 91-10 Bethel destroyed |
Amos is given vision of God destroying the temple of Bethel (+ golden calf). Strike the capitals until the thresholds shake, and shatter them on the heads of all the people; and those who are left of them I will kill with the sword; not one of them shall flee away; not one of them shall escape. So it would also be for arrogant, God-rejecting, idol worshipping Israel. If they hide themselves on the top of Carmel, from there I will search them out ... And I will fix my eyes upon them for evil and not for good. ... "Behold, the eyes of the Lord God are upon the sinful kingdom, and I will destroy it from the surface of the ground, except that I will not utterly destroy the house of Jacob," declares the Lord. |
| Amos 911-15 The restoration of Israel |
Amos ends with a bright, but distant, hope that the Lord will in the end restore Israel. "In that day I will raise up the booth of David that is fallen and repair its breaches, and raise up its ruins and rebuild it as in the days of old. ... I will restore the fortunes of my people Israel, and they shall rebuild the ruined cities and inhabit them ... I will plant them on their land, and they shall never again be uprooted out of the land that I have given them," says the Lord your God. Today we see Israel restored to their own land, but only gradually being restored to the Lord their God. The Lord Almighty is faithful and will complete this promised task. The day will come when Israel will be a holy nation. |
Obadiah [Contents]
Written shortly after Babylon had destroyed Jerusalem in 586 BC. The Edomite descendants of Esau saw this as an opportunity to take over the Judean villages, capture the fleeing Jews and hand them over to Nebuchadnezzar. Almighty God was sent this prophet to warn Edom against such wicked opportunism.
| Obed 11-14 Edom warned by God |
Thus says the Lord GOD concerning Edom: Behold, I will make you small among the nations; you shall be utterly despised. Why was God angry with Edom (and much of today’s world) The pride of your heart has deceived you. Edom’s neighbour had been destroyed, but they saw it only as an opportunity to pillage what the Jews had left behind, not as God’s judgement ... You have no understanding ... God declares he will therefore destroy the wise men out of Edom because of the violence done to your brother Jacob. in the day of their ruin; do not boast. ... do not gloat over his disaster. do not loot his wealth ... do not hand over his survivors. Why does the world so often hate Israel and support their Arab neighbours? Oil wealth and financial opportunity + careless of God’s choice of the Jews. |
| Obed 115-18 The consequences |
Edom refused to realise that the day of the LORD is near upon all the nations. The world remains deaf to this warning; totally careless. The house of Jacob shall be a fire, and the house of Esau stubble, for the LORD has spoken. Saviours shall go up to Mount Zion and the kingdom shall be the LORD'S.
When Christ came as Saviour, most of Israel rejected him. But God has not given up on the people he chose 3,000 years ago. He will very soon return to Zion. His people will repent and this prophecy will be fulfilled. Jesus will be their king, and also king of all the world that he created and nurtured all these years. |
Jonah [Contents]
Jonah was a most interesting prophet / preacher. For all his personal up and downs, his honesty and life reveal much about how the grace of the Lord God is poured out. He is a practical answer to the question Jesus asks, "Which of the two did what his father wanted?" Math 2128-32 The will of God is often established in unexpected, extraordinary ways.
| Jonah 11 - 210 Jonah flees, but God does not |
The book opens with a dramatic statement: The word of the Lord came to Jonah. We are not told how or anything about the life of Jonah that led to this. Had he been praying for the people of Nineveh? Did he have a friend who lived there? Had he been seeking God about his future? Of this the scriptures are silent. But we are told in a single clear sentence what God said to him. "Go to the great city of Nineveh and preach against it, because its wickedness has come up before me." He didn't like God's plan. Either because he knew that whenever God announces judgement there is always a hope that men will repent and he could then have mercy. (42 Jer 187) Or he was afraid what the Ninevites might do to him. Either way he gave God's plan a very low mark. In fact Jonah ran away from the Lord! Did he really think he could?! Jonah had some lessons to learn. Although there were many widows in Israel, Elijah was sent to a widow in Sidon. And there were many lepers in Israel but Elisha was directed to heal Naaman, the Syrian. (Lu 425-27) To Jonah, the grace of God is seen to be extensive; he was willing to teach him. The first lesson commenced. The Lord sent a violent storm. The sailors feared for their lives, prayed to their gods and threw the cargo overboard. Jonah was asleep below - which surprised the Captain. The cast lots to find who was the guilty one. It was Jonah. They asked him what they should do? "Throw me into the sea," he replied. So they did, and the raging of the sea grew calm. But the Lord provided a great fish to swallow Jonah, and Jonah was inside the fish three days and three nights. Some provision!! Saved from drowning in the sea, to be suffocated in a fish! But the surprising purpose of God was about to unfold. In the fish Jonah, prayed, repented and died. His final, and correct conclusion was: "Salvation comes from the Lord." And it did. The Lord commanded the fish, and it vomited Jonah onto dry land. Alive! Just as he would later command Lazarus, who was 3 days dead, to "Come forth!" And in proof of these two being raised from the dead, Jesus used the sign of the prophet Jonah to show what was going to happen to him. For as Jonah was three days and three nights in the belly of a huge fish, so the Son of Man will be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth. Math 1240 |
| Jonah 31-10 Jonah preaches to Nineveh. They repent and are spared |
Then the word of the Lord came to Jonah a second time: "Go to the great city of Nineveh and proclaim to it the message I give you." Same as before, unchanged. Almighty God is not going to revise his plan because a foolish man did not like it. But this time his response was different. Jonah obeyed the word of the Lord and went to Nineveh. He had learned at least one lesson from the God of grace. What was the message of God to Nineveh? It was very simple - and just. "Forty more days and Nineveh will be overturned." Imagine saying that at Hyde Park Corner, in Westminster Abbey, or in Parliament asking "How does the Prime Minister intend to avoid Almighty God destroying London in 40 days time?" But God knew Nineveh, and it wasn't like London. The Ninevites believed God. They declared a fast, and all of them, from the greatest to the least, put on sackcloth. Their repentance was real and no one abstained. When God saw what they did and how they turned from their evil ways, he had compassion and did not bring upon them the destruction he had threatened. And they were Gentiles too! It is true that their repentance did not last and about half a century later they would be destroyed by Babylon. But this generation were spared. |
| Jonah 41-11 Jonah's response |
But Jonah was greatly displeased and became angry. Why? Basically God was compassionate; but Jonah was not. Perhaps Jonah felt foolish because his prophecy did not come to pass. But it is much more likely the city was grateful for the warning than thinking Jonah was a fool. Jonah wanted nothing better than to die. But God had compassion for the sulking Jonah, as well as the Ninevites. First he asks Jonah a straight question: "Have you any right to be angry?" The sovereignty of divine grace provokes many questions; not always answers! There remain many biblical mysteries - be honest. e.g. God is always just, but why do wicked prosper? Jer 121 God could show mercy to Jonah, but why to Nineveh? Grace is always amazing. The Pharisees never understood why Jesus chose to dine with Zachaeus. Ditto the elder brother didn't enjoy the prodigal's return. Jonah had no right to question God's grace to the undeserving. His answer to God's question remains hidden, but he didn't stop his angry sulk. So the Lord God provided a vine (an instant vine) and made it grow up over Jonah to give shade for his head to ease his discomfort, and Jonah was very happy about the vine. Was this happy conclusion the end of this extraordinary story. No!
At dawn the next day God provided a worm, which chewed the vine so that it withered. When the sun rose, God provided a scorching east wind, and the sun blazed on Jonah's head so that he grew faint.
There the story ends. |
Micah [Contents]
He prophesied to Judah and Israel from ~ 750 to 700 BC during the time when the northern tribes of Israel were permanently exiled by Assyria and when Judah nearly fell too.
| Micah 11-16 When men reject God judgement comes. |
Hear, you peoples, all of you ... for behold, the LORD is coming ... And his coming was not for a cosy chat! Judah had not taken significant notice of Isaiah: even Jerusalem was a 'high place' and Israel had rejected the word of God from Amos and Hosea. God was not going to ignore their sin, their idolatry and wickedness. Therefore I will make Samaria a heap in the open country ... All her carved images shall be beaten to pieces ... For her wound is incurable. The rebellion was not only in Israel: it had spread to Judah, to Jerusalem. So: I will again bring a conqueror to you ... they shall go from you into exile. What will Almighty God do to UK and the world that today heedlessly ignore him? The answer is revealed both in the prophetic Scripture and in history. Beware! |
| Micah 21-13 Power corrupts |
Woe to those who devise wickedness ... when the morning dawns, they perform it. They covet fields and seize them ... they oppress a man and his house. In that day they shall ... moan bitterly, and say, "We are utterly ruined." They did not believe this; they thought: disgrace will not overtake us. But a day comes when corruption destroys the proud and the powerful. Yet in the last days the gracious Lord says, "I will gather the remnant of Israel. Their king passes on before them, the LORD at their head." In this day Israel will repent and welcome their returning King. Zech 1210 - 131 |
| Micah 31-12 Soon it would be too late. |
Hear, you rulers of the house of Israel! ... You who hate the good and love the evil. They will cry to the LORD, but he will not answer them. How did Israel come to this disastrous state? They missed the day of opportunity. Isaiah, down in Judea, had prophesied: "Come, all of you who are thirsty, come ... Seek the Lord while he may be found, call on him while he is near." Is 551,6 Again Micah cries, Hear this, you rulers of the house of Israel, who detest justice and make crooked all that is straight. As in the poem, The Listener by Walter de la Mare: "Is there anybody there?" said the Traveller, knocking on the moonlit door ... For he suddenly smote on the door, even louder, and lifted his head: "Tell them I came, and no one answered, I kept my word," he said. The Lord is still calling to his world today - even in pandemics. But soon it will be too late. Why do men so readily reject God and miss the moment of opportunity? Deceived, distracted, deaf; proud, desire power, peace and popularity, ... Thus says the LORD concerning the prophets who lead my people astray ... The seers shall be disgraced, ... for there is no answer from God. Micah does not give up on God’s commission; he continues to preach: Hear this, you heads of the house of Jacob ... "Its priests teach for a price ... No disaster shall come upon us." But the priests were false deceivers; wrong. Almighty God was right! So he continues: Therefore because of you Zion shall be plowed as a field; Jerusalem shall become a heap of ruins. And so it did. Twice. One and six centuries later; 586 BC and 70 AD. |
| Micah 41-8 God’s kingdom promised |
It shall come to pass in the latter days that the mountain of the house of the LORD
shall be established as the highest of the mountains. One day God has promised that the longing of righteous men will be fulfilled. The glorious Kingdom of God will be established for Jews and Gentiles. Many nations shall come, and say: "Come, let us go up to the mountain of the LORD, to the house of the God of Jacob, that he may teach us his ways." For out of Zion shall go forth the law, and the word of the LORD from Jerusalem. They shall beat their swords into plowshares ...neither shall they learn war anymore. They shall sit every man under his vine and under his fig tree, and no one shall make them afraid, for the mouth of the LORD of hosts has spoken. In that day, declares the LORD, I will gather those who have been driven away. The LORD will reign over them in Mount Zion from this time forth and forevermore. This beautiful vision was given to Micah when he was surrounded by wickedness, idolatry and the brutal Assyrian war machine. Such is the grace of God. However he did not live to experience it; neither have we 2,700 years later! But the vision is sure and certain. The longing that God has put in our hearts he will be completely fulfill. Just as he has already fulfilled the provision of our crucified Saviour. Maranatha!! |
| Micah 49-13 Before that great day, Judah will be exiled to Babylon |
Writhe and groan, O daughter of Zion, ... for now you shall go to Babylon. There you shall be rescued; there the LORD will redeem you from the hand of your enemies. There is then a leap in time to the last days: Now many nations are assembled against you, saying, "Let her be defiled ..." But they do not know the thoughts of the LORD; they do not understand his plan. Today this is being fulfilled. Almost all the world is against modern Israel - see the UN voting and their support of the Palestinian Arabs. Even very few Christians understand that God’s covenant with the Jews is both unconditional and eternal, especially concerning the land of Israel. (See Gen 1513-20 177,8) The Church cannot just take over the promises God made to Abraham and his descendants thinking that God has finished with the Jews post Calvary. Replacement Theology that ignores God’s covenant with the Jews and many other scriptures was one of the issues that caused the sad splitting of GCC and subsequently the senior pastor leaving. |
| Micah 51-15 God’s answer to sin |
Jerusalem would be saved from destruction by Assyria, but not from Babylon. God would send a mighty Saviour from the the little town of Bethlehem: But you, O Bethlehem Ephrathah, who are too little to be among the clans of Judah, from you shall come forth for me one who is to be ruler in Israel. He would not come until another seven centuries had passed. And then the Deliverer would be crucified! The Ruler would not come for at least another 2,000 years. We eagerly await his imminent coming today. And he shall be their peace. Only he can bring peace and righteousness to this war-stricken world. Meanwhile when the Assyrians invade and destroy Israel, Jerusalem would be delivered. He shall deliver us from the Assyrian when he comes into our land. And he did! The angel of the Lord slew 185,000 Assyrians in one night. Is 3736 But even this mighty act would not turn the hearts of Judah to the Lord. It would be many years before the remnant of Jacob would be like the dew from the Lord and bring the Gospel of Jesus in the midst of many peoples. The Jews would then bring light and truth and salvation to the Gentile world. They would open the kingdom of heaven to all who would believe in this Saviour. |
| Micah 61-8 What does the Lord require? |
The Lord did not want thousands of meaningless sacrifices, but righteous people. What does the LORD require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God? The problem is that men cannot meet this requirement without being 'born again'. And to be 'born again' required the perfect sacrifice that only the Son of God could make. |
| Micah 69-16 Destruction of the wicked |
The voice of the LORD cries to the city: Shall I acquit the man with wicked scales ... Your rich men are full of violence; your inhabitants speak lies, and their tongue is deceitful in their mouth. Therefore I strike you with a grievous blow, making you desolate because of your sins. You shall sow, but not reap; you shall tread grapes, but not drink wine. Such is the judgement of Almighty God upon all who reject him and do evil. And not just in 700 BC. It may seem that through history the wicked prosper and the powerful deceive. But their reign is only temporary. (see Ps 733,37) They will be denied entry into the eternal kingdom of heaven. What will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his soul? Math 1626 "Fallen, fallen is Babylon the great! ... since in her heart she says, 'I sit as a queen, I am no widow, and mourning I shall never see.’ For this reason her plagues will come in a single day, death and mourning and famine, and she will be burned up with fire; for mighty is the Lord God who has judged her.” Rev 182-19 Today, the voice of the Lord still cries out to his fallen world. But who will hear? The Lord waits patiently for the few that will hear. What grace! |
| Micah 71-17 Living ready for the end; Confident in the Lord |
The final establishment of the kingdom of God is not in doubt; but what we think and do meanwhile is important. See the 4 stories Jesus told in Math 2436 - 2546 These days will be tough and confidence in God’s faithfulness will be vital. The godly has perished from the earth. Their hands are on what is evil, to do it well. The prince and the judge ask for a bribe, and the great man utters the evil desire of his soul; thus they weave it together. The best of them is like a brier. The wise are ready and prepared in these days. But as for me, I will look to the LORD; I will wait for the God of my salvation; my God will hear me. Rejoice not over me, O my enemy; when I fall, I shall rise; when I sit in darkness, the LORD will be a light to me. Then my enemy will see, and shame will cover her who said to me, "Where is the LORD your God?" As in the days when you came out of Egypt, I will show them marvellous things. The nations shall see and be ashamed of all their might They shall turn in dread to the LORD our God, and they shall be in fear of you. |
| Micah 718-20 A final reminder of pardoning grace |
Let us never forget this great truth: Who is a God like you, pardoning iniquity. He will again have compassion on us; You will cast all our sins into the depths of the sea. You will show faithfulness to Jacob and steadfast love to Abraham, as you have sworn to our fathers from the days of old. God’s mercy and grace have been repeated down through the centuries of history. His Word and his faithfulness have been tested and always found reliable. In the darkest days remember, be assured, that the story ends well for all who believe in Christ Jesus. |
Nahum [Contents]
Nahum prophesied in Judah about 60 years after the 722 BC exile of Israel to Assyria, who were still the dominant and bitterly cruel world power. His message was primarily directed to Nineveh, the capital of Assyria. But this small book has a timeless prophetic warning. Almighty God deals with all wicked rulers, empires and false religions. Later in Babylon God would use Daniel to interpret Nebuchadnezzar’s ‘statue dream’ in which all the world empires would be destroyed by the ‘little rock’ which would blow them away like chaff before establishing the eternal righteous Kingdom of God.
Jonah had preached in Nineveh much earlier and they had repented, but in 660 BC it was very different.
| Nahum 11-6 God’s wrath on Nineveh |
An oracle concerning Nineveh. The LORD takes vengeance on his adversaries and keeps wrath for his enemies ... the LORD will by no means clear the guilty. Who can stand before his indignation? Who can endure the heat of his anger? His wrath is poured out like fire. Assyria was extraordinarily cruel to all its vanquished enemies, including Israel. God was using his prophet to: 1. Warn Assyria that justice was soon to come upon them. 2. Give Judah assurance that their enemy was about to be destroyed. |
| Nahum 17 - 22 Judah must call on the Lord |
Now was the time for Judah to repent too! The LORD is good, a stronghold in the day of trouble; he knows those who take refuge in him. Behold, upon the mountains, the feet of him who brings good news ... Keep your feasts, O Judah; fulfill your vows. ... For the LORD is restoring the majesty of Jacob. |
| Nahum 23-13 Destruction of Nineveh |
Desolate! Desolation and ruin! Hearts melt and knees tremble ... Behold, I am against you, declares the LORD of hosts. |
| Nahum 31-19 Woe to Nineveh (And Judah) |
Woe to the bloody city, all full of lies and plunder ... Behold, I am against you, declares the LORD of hosts. (an awful repeat) There will the fire devour you; the sword will cut you off. There is no easing your hurt; your wound is grievous. All who hear the news about you clap their hands over you. For upon whom has not come your unceasing evil? All Assyria’s enemies who had suffered her cruelty would rejoice; at least now they would see a measure of justice.
But Judah did not repent either.
Jeremiah began preaching to Judah in ~625 BC, and Zephaniah 5 years earlier. |
Habakkuk [Contents]
Jehoiakim came to the throne in 609BC; a young and evil king, nearly a century after N. Israel exiled by Assyria.
Judah was prosperous, unjust, violent, immoral and idolatrous. And it greatly distressed Habakkuk.
Almighty God gave this prophet the single answer to his two honest, ancient and continuing questions.
| Hab 11-4 How long, O Lord? Why do you tolerate wrong? |
The earnest prophet prayed continuously; but God seemed not to hear. Jeremiah had been preaching in Jerusalem for 20 years, but the people were deaf. Why? UK has been electing governments for decades hoping for peace and prosperity, but like Judah, we become less holy and more wicked. Many Christians have prayed earnestly like Habakkuk - asking the same questions. How can we sing while the nation and the world blaspheme and ridicule God? Why doesn't the Almighty Lord act to make his creation righteous? |
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| Hab 11-11 God's Unbelievable Answer |
God tells Habakkuk that his answer will be found by observing other nations. Look at the nations and watch–and be utterly amazed. For I am going to do something in your days that you would not believe, even if you were told. I am raising up the Babylonians ...!! That was God's answer. In 'raising' them up, they would come and destroy Jerusalem and God's Temple. What sort of unjust answer is that? As God had warned, Habakkuk was indeed amazed. |
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| Hab 112 - 21 Habakkuk complains |
O Lord, you have appointed them to execute judgment ... Why are you silent while the wicked swallow up those more righteous than themselves ... ? So what is the prophet, who cannot yet understand God's truth, going to do now? I will stand at my watch and station myself on the ramparts; I will look to see what he will say to me ... This was definitely not a defiant 'we'll see who's right ...' act. It was much more 'I will stand and watch carefully, please show me.' Almighty God respected this humble, honest response of his well chosen prophet. |
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| Hab 22-20 God Explains his Answer |
He first instructs the prophet to write down the answer. He wants us to know it too. For the revelation awaits an appointed time; it speaks of the end and will not prove false. Though it linger, wait for it; it will certainly come and will not delay. Firstly the answer was not just for Habakkuk's day, but also for the 'last days'. Days when the wicked will be puffed up; his desires are not upright – but the righteous will live by his faith. The wicked will be drunk ... arrogant ... greedy ... violent ... blasphemous ... Woe to him who builds his realm by unjust gain ... with bloodshed. Has not the Lord Almighty determined ... that the nations exhaust themselves for nothing? For the earth will be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the Lord, as the waters cover the sea. Of what value is an idol ... But the Lord is in his holy temple; let all the earth be silent before him. God tells Habakkuk that a day will come when wickedness will be no more, a day when all will be righteous, when his dreams will be fulfilled. But it will not be when Babylon comes, or when earth's empires expire; it will only come when the King of kings comes and establishes his kingdom. Habakkuk now sees this glorious truth - which most today are still blind to. |
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| Hab 31-19 Habakkuk Prays |
I stand in awe of your deeds, O Lord. Renew them in our day, in our time make them known; in wrath remember mercy. In wrath you strode through the earth and in anger you threshed the nations. You came out to deliver your people, to save your anointed one. You crushed the leader of the land of wickedness ... Yet I will wait patiently for the day of calamity to come on the nation invading us. Habakkuk understands that this great day is as distant as it is certain. Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will be joyful in God my Saviour. The Sovereign Lord is my strength ... God has answered the prophet's questions - and he is satisfied. We will be too, if the Almighty has revealed it to us. For the children of God the Lord had first to come as Redeemer; and then later to return to complete their salvation. Heb 928 Only this will bring the righteous Kingdom of God that Habakkuk so longed for. Nebuchadnezzar brought the judgement of God upon Jerusalem; but this did not change the hearts of the people to become holy. Our God is never in the business of disappointing his children, or his prophets. |
| Zeph 11 In the days of Josiah |
640-609 BC. The word of the LORD that came to Zephaniah. This opening phrase is important. What he preached was not his own ideas, not his own slant on the state of the nation. And God’s word didn’t just come out of the blue. God chose his man, and that man was earnest for the glory of God. He hated the national and careless wickedness. |
| Zeph 12-6 Judgement on Judah |
The Lord declares ... I will stretch out my hand against Judah and against all the inhabitants of Jerusalem; and I will cut off from this place the remnant of Baal and the name of the idolatrous priests ... those who have turned back from following the LORD, who do not seek the LORD. Judah sought personal prosperity and had to be reminded that the consequences of sin is total destruction. Never a popular message. |
| Zeph 17-18 On that day |
The day of the LORD is near ... On that day the Lord will punish Judah for many listed wicked ways. The judgement will be sooner rather than later - don’t put off repentance. The great day of the LORD is near, near and hastening fast ... a day of wrath is that day, a day of distress and anguish, a day of ruin and devastation, a day of darkness and gloom ... because they have sinned against the LORD. Zephaniah is shown there will be a greater judgement in the last days, when: all the earth shall be consumed; for a full and sudden end he will make of all the inhabitants of the earth. |
| Zeph 2 Enemies also judged |
Before God judges all their enemies, Judah must be prepared; therefor: Seek the LORD ... seek righteousness; seek humility; perhaps you may be hidden on the day of the anger of the LORD. Enemies judged: Gaza, Ashkelon, Cherethites, Canaan, Philistines, ... Moab and Ammon will be like Sodom and Gomorrah, Cushites shall be slain, Assyria a desolation. |
| Zeph 31-8 Rebellious Jerusalem |
Just in case Judah should think only their enemies will be judged, Zepaniah returns to Jerusalem and their plight. Woe to her who is rebellious and defiled ... She listens to no voice; she accepts no correction. She does not trust in the LORD; she does not draw near to her God. Her judges are evening wolves Her prophets are fickle, treacherous men; her priests profane what is holy Therefore wait for me,” declares the LORD ... And the waiting will not be long. The judgement is certain. Jeremiah preached for 40 years but no one heeded him or Zephaniah. Then the Lord’s patience ended and Babylon completely destroyed Jerusalem. |
| Zeph 39-20 Restoration promised |
The Lord has also planned a day of restoration, however unlikely it may seem - either then, or today. At that time I will change the speech of the peoples to a pure speech, that all of them may call upon the name of the LORD. On that day ... I will remove from your midst your proudly exultant ones. I will leave in your midst a people humble and lowly. They shall seek refuge in the name of the LORD ... and none shall make them afraid. How will this come about? There is only one way - The Lord himself will return. The King of Israel, the LORD, is in your midst ... at the time when I gather you together For I will make you renowned and praised among all the peoples of the earth. We await that great and promised day when ‘all Israel will be saved’. Ro 1126,27 |
Haggai [Contents]
He prophesied in the 2nd year of Darius Hystapis (522-486 BC). Cyrus had allowed the Jews to return from Babylon 16 years earlier. They started to rebuild the Temple, but stopped because of local opposition.
| Hag 11-15 Rebuilding the Temple |
Haggai heard what the Lord Almighty says, "These people say, 'The time has not yet come for the Lord's house to be built.' " ... "Is it a time for you yourselves to be living in your panelled houses, while this house remains a ruin?" Now this is what the Lord Almighty says: "Give careful thought to your ways. You have planted much, but have harvested little. You eat, but never have enough. You drink, but never have your fill. You put on clothes, but are not warm. You earn wages, only to put them in a purse with holes in it." This is what the Lord Almighty says: "Give careful thought to your ways. Go up into the mountains and bring down timber and build the house, so that I may take pleasure in it and be honoured," says the Lord. Zerubbabel the Governor, Joshua the High Priest and all the people obeyed. They came and began to work on the house of the Lord Almighty, their God. So the Lord was glad to tell them, "I am with you." What better news can any people receive from the Lord God? |
| Hag 21-9 God promises his presence |
Just a month later the word of the Lord came to Haggai to tell Zerubbabel and Joshua "Now be strong ... for I am with you. This is what I covenanted with you when you came out of Egypt. And my Spirit remains among you. Do not fear." "In a little while I will once more shake the heavens and the earth, the sea and the dry land. I will shake all nations, and the desired of all nations will come, and I will fill this house with glory," says the Lord Almighty. By earth's standards the 2nd Temple had nowhere near the size, the gold or bronze of Solomon's Temple. Even after Herod had enlarged it, 500 years later, it's glory was very small in comparison. Jesus, 'the desired of all nations' did come. But the only glory he received was to be crucified! This was God's plan as there was no other way that men could be forgiven and be saved. Now he reigns in the glory of heaven; but not yet on earth. However the day is coming soon when 'he will shake the heavens and the earth'. He will return to earth as King of kings and Lord of lords, defeat Satan's Beast, imprison Satan and fill his creation with glory. As the writer to the Hebrews later confirmed: At that time his voice shook the earth, but now he has promised, "Once more I will shake not only the earth but also the heavens." The words "once more" indicate the removing of what can be shaken–that is, created things–so that what cannot be shaken may remain. 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." Heb 1226-29 Almighty God will definitely fulfill his word to Haggai. He will 'fill this house with glory', his creation and his people. And they will experience 'The glory of this present house will be greater than the glory of the former house,' says the Lord Almighty. 'And in this place I will grant peace,' declares the Lord Almighty. What a day it will be when all deception will be replaced with truth, and all people will be holy, just and righteous. No more war and no more pain. This will be the promised glory of the Lord that will fill his people, the temple of the Holy Spirit. |
| Hag 210-19 God's blessing promised |
Another two months later the word of the Lord came to Haggai, "... consider how things were before one stone was laid on another in the Lord's temple. ... I struck all the work of your hands with blight, mildew and hail, yet you did not turn to me," declares the Lord. ... "From this day on I will bless you." And again the word of the Lord came: "I will shake the heavens and the earth. ... I will take you, my servant Zerubbabel son of Shealtiel," declares the Lord, "and I will make you like my signet ring, for I have chosen you." So Zerubbabel came into the genealogy of Jesus. Math 15 |
Zechariah [Contents]
The word of the Lord came to Zechariah in the same year as Haggai - 520 BC
| Zech 11-6 The need to repent |
The Lord was very angry with your forefathers. Therefore tell the people: This is what the Lord Almighty says: 'Return to me,' declares the Lord Almighty, 'and I will return to you,' says the Lord Almighty. Then they repented and said, 'The Lord Almighty has done to us what our ways and practices deserve, just as he determined to do.' It is rare that a man admits he deserves God's wrath, that he is totally unable to make himself righteous and thus needs a Redeemer. What joy there must have been in heaven to see Israel repenting of their sin. The rest of this book tells us what God delights to do with forgiven people. After three months God gives his prophet 7 visions in a single night! |
| 1. Man among the Myrtle trees Zech 17-17 |
He is shown a horseman in red, with two others in brown and white behind him, tells him they are the ones the Lord had sent to go throughout the world. They reported that the world was at rest; still under the peaceful yoke of Persia. For Israel to be truly free they needed the Persian empire to be overthrown - and then the Greek and finally the Roman empires. "Therefore, this is what the Lord says: 'I will return to Jerusalem with mercy, and there my house will be rebuilt. And the measuring line will be stretched out over Jerusalem,' declares the Lord Almighty." Jesus Christ did come to Jerusalem and he did build 'his house', his Temple, his Church. But the building is not yet complete. It soon will be! For the Lord said, "Proclaim further ... The Lord will again comfort Zion and choose Jerusalem." Zechariah would have to wait just 3½ years for the 2nd Temple building to be finished. He did look with favour upon the Jews who had returned to Jerusalem and were now wholeheartedly rebuilding the Temple. But we are now seeing the greater fulfillment of this prophecy. The Jews have returned after 2,000 years of Roman exile. The faithful Lord is about to comfort Israel with salvation and choose Jerusalem - much to the annoyance of most of the rest of the world. Soon he will return in person to establish his righteous kingdom. |
| 2. Four Horns and Craftsmen Zech 118-21 |
He is shown 4 Horns and is told "These are the horns that scattered Judah, Israel and Jerusalem." Then he sees 4 Craftsmen who are to terrify and destroy the 4 horns that had scattered Israel. In due time (the next 2,500 years) the 4 world empires would be overthrown - just as God had revealed to Daniel and Nebuchadnezzar in his 'statue of gold, silver, bronze and iron dream' in Babylon some 80 years earlier. Dan 2 The dream in which the 4 great world empires would be destroyed by 'the little rock' that would become the eternal, righteous kingdom of God. |
| 3. Man with a Measuring Line Zech 21-13 |
I looked up–and there before me was a man with a measuring line in his hand! I asked, "Where are you going?"
He answered me, "To measure Jerusalem, to find out how wide and how long it is." Then the angel who was speaking to me left, and another angel came to meet him and said to him: "Run, tell that young man, 'Jerusalem will be a city without walls because of the great number of men and livestock in it. And I myself will be a wall of fire around it,' declares the Lord, 'and I will be its glory within.' The Lord God tells the angel, not about Jerusalem at that time, but what Jerusalem will be in the future - 'A city without walls', at peace, totally protected by God himself and with the glorious presence of God as King within. Ezekiel sees this same picture of Jerusalem and its people living in peace. Ezek 3810,11 Jerusalem = 'City of peace'. But from king David 1004BC to Rome in 37 BC Jerusalem changed hands 17 times. And from 70 AD to 1967 it had a further 21 different rulers. See website 'History of Jerusalem'. So this prophecy clearly refers to a time of peace yet to come. The dream of its name will surely come. Then the Lord tells him, "Come! Come! Flee from the land of the north," declares the Lord, "for I have scattered you to the four winds of heaven," declares the Lord. "Come, O Zion! Escape, you who live in the Daughter of Babylon!" But Zechariah had already returned from Babylon; he was in Jerusalem. So this instruction must be for some future day. Today! When nearly half the world's Jews have not yet returned to Israel. Living in 'Babylon' also means living in the wicked world system as revealed in Rev 17,18. Almighty God wants his people to leave Babylon. "Come out of her, my people, so that you do not share in her sins." Rev184 Finally the Lord tells Zechariah, and us, "Shout and be glad, O Daughter of Zion. For I am coming, and I will live among you," declares the Lord. "Many nations will be joined with the Lord in that day and will become my people. I will live among you and you will know that the Lord Almighty has sent me to you." So even we Gentiles are included in God's gracious invitation to live with him in Jerusalem. It is now over 50 years since I sent him my affirmative response to his RSVP. And though the world is beginning to be shaken and wickedness abounds, yet I will rejoice and be glad in the Lord! Hab 317,18 |
| 4. High Priest Cleansed Zech 31-10 |
Zechariah is shown Joshua the high priest standing before the angel of the Lord, and Satan standing at his right side to accuse him. The Lord said to Satan, "The Lord rebuke you, Satan! The Lord, who has chosen Jerusalem, rebuke you! Is not this man a burning stick snatched from the fire?" First, the Lord reminds him that he has chosen Jerusalem. Do we need reminding? Satan's prime objective is to accuse and thus destroy all men. No man can stand before God and not be justly accused unless he has been forgiven, cleansed by the perfect blood sacrifice of Jesus. So Almighty God proves that Joshua is forgiven, and there is nothing Satan can accuse him of. Now Joshua was dressed in filthy clothes as he stood before the angel. The angel said to those who were standing before him, "Take off his filthy clothes." Then he said to Joshua, "See, I have taken away your sin, and I will put rich garments on you." Then I said, "Put a clean turban on his head." So they put a clean turban on his head and clothed him, while the angel of the Lord stood by. The Lord God confirms to Joshua that he taken away his sin, he is now clean. The clean turban is to ensure that Joshua knows in his mind he is forgiven. As Paul taught the Romans, In the same way, count yourselves dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus. Ro 65-11
The Lord God also wanted to ensure that it was not only Joshua who could be cleansed, but all who call on the name of the Lord and plead for mercy. |
| 5. The Gold Lampstand and Two Olive Trees Zech 41-14 |
Zechariah was so caught up with the first four visions that an angel had to 'awaken', alert him to see the next vision. He sees a solid gold lampstand with a bowl at the top and seven lights on it, with seven channels to the lights. Also there are two olive trees by it, one on the right of the bowl and the other on its left. But what do these symbolise. Zechariah need help here, and so probably do we! The angel tells him: This is the word of the Lord to Zerubbabel: 'Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,' says the Lord Almighty. ... "The hands of Zerubbabel have laid the foundation of this temple; his hands will also complete it." The 2nd Temple may seem small, but it would be completed. Later it would also be enlarged by Herod. But it would not last. The Romans would destroy it 70 AD. The Lord God was also referring to another Temple raised not by human might but by his Spirit. Jesus tells us how his body would be destroyed, but his Father would raise it again on the third day. And when his body was raised a great multitude of believers would be raised with him. Jn 219-22 Ro 64,5 And that's not all. The angel explains the two olive trees that have two gold pipes that pour out golden oil. ... These are the two who are anointed to serve the Lord of all the earth. They serve the Lord by pouring out the oil of God's mercy and grace - in abundance. The seven lights are the seven eyes of the Lord, which range throughout the earth. No one is too small or insignificant; each one is seen and precious in the sight of Almighty God. |
| 6. The Flying Scroll and the woman in a Basket Zech 51-11 |
After the first five visions some may feel it is unfortunate to finish it with such a note of judgement. Some preachers may prefer to leave it out, but the Lord God knows best. He sees it as a necessity; and therefore so should we. The fly scroll declares for all to see, and none to avoid seeing it; all thieves and those who swear falsely will be destroyed. And the iniquity of the land is like a woman in a basket with a lead cover that is taken to Babylon - and there we are later told it would be destroyed in a single hour! Rev 181-8 |
| 7. Four Chariots Zech 61-8 |
Now he sees 4 powerful chariots with red, black, white and dappled horses, coming out from between two mountains–mountains of bronze! They go throughout the earth. Black went N, white went W, and dappled went S. (Not told if red went E). "Look, those going toward the north country have given my Spirit rest in the land of the north." When the first four seals are opened by the Lord in Rev 6 there are the same coloured horses though in a different order. Could there be a connection? I currently have no idea what this last vision means. |
| Zech 69-15 Messiah will be Priest and King |
It was a highly prophetic act to put a crown on the head of Joshua, the High Priest. The Lord Almighty says: 'Here is the man whose name is the Branch, and he will branch out from his place and build the temple of the Lord. It is he who will build the temple of the Lord.' This foretells that though the Messiah Jesus as High Priest would offer himself a perfect sacrifice and thus fulfil what the Levitical sacrifices could never achieve, he would also be the long awaited eternal King from the tribe of Judah. Like Melchizedek. See Heb 7. The Temple and the Kingdom he would build would be righteous and eternal, and filled with forgiven saints rejoicing in the glorious presence of their faithful God and Saviour. |
| Zech 71-14 Purpose of Fasting? |
After 2 years, the word of the Lord Almighty came to me: "Ask all the people of the land and the priests, 'When you fasted and mourned in the fifth and seventh months for the past seventy years, was it really for me that you fasted? And when you were eating and drinking, were you not just feasting for yourselves?" Were they really desiring the presence of God in their lives, or did they fast hoping God would reward it by giving them a better life - like those who worship idols. God had told them (through Jeremiah) that they should 'Administer true justice; show mercy and compassion to one another.' But they refused. So they had been exiled and this is how they made the pleasant land desolate. As they rebuilt the Temple, Israel was told to remember what Jeremiah had told them about justice and mercy - both to show between themselves and to see the justice and mercy of Almighty God. We must do so too. 'Economy of the truth' is common today and so is it's chief partner, deceit. It we refuse God's instruction, our 'green and pleasant' land will also become desolate. |
| Zech 81-23 The Lord will bless Israel |
This is what the Lord Almighty says: "I am very jealous for Zion; I am burning with jealousy for her." This is what the Lord says: "I will return to Zion and dwell in Jerusalem. Then Jerusalem will be called the City of Truth, and the mountain of the Lord Almighty will be called the Holy Mountain." Almighty God always means what he says and does what he promises. How will the presence of God be observed? This is what the Lord Almighty says: "Once again men and women of ripe old age will sit in the streets of Jerusalem, each with cane in hand because of his age. The city streets will be filled with boys and girls playing there." With great joy I witnessed this when visiting Jerusalem in 1991. But the fulfillment is not yet complete; the heart of the people is not yet righteous and obedient. This is what the Lord Almighty says: "I will save my people from the countries of the east and the west. I will bring them back to live in Jerusalem; they will be my people, and I will be faithful and righteous to them as their God." Today only just over a half of the Jewish people live in Israel. More will return. This is what the Lord Almighty says: "Just as I had determined to bring disaster upon you ... so now I have determined to do good again to Jerusalem and Judah. Do not be afraid. These are the things you are to do: Speak the truth to each other, and render true and sound judgment ..." Sadly deceit is still common, God's truth about salvation is still only believed by a few. Justice is too often lacking - and not only in politics. This is what the Lord Almighty says: "Many peoples and the inhabitants of many cities will yet come ... And many peoples and powerful nations will come to Jerusalem to seek the Lord Almighty and to entreat him ... and say, 'Let us go with you, because we have heard that God is with you.' " What a day that will be! It is over 2,500 years since God spoke these words to Zechariah and to Jerusalem. So their fulfillment must soon be completed. As our eyes see increasing wickedness and a world-wide growth in hatred for Israel, let us hold these words close to our hearts and rehearse them in our minds. The Lord remains both powerful and faithful, whatever foolish men may say. |
| Zech 91-8 Judgment upon Israel's enemies |
The Lord will take away the possessions of Tyre and destroy her sea power. Gaza will lose her king and writhe in agony. Foreigners will occupy Ashdod. The pride of the Philistines will be cut off. Ekron will be like the Jebusites. But I will defend my house against marauding forces. Never again will an oppressor overrun my people, for now I am keeping watch. We await this great day. |
| Zech 99-13 Your King comes to you |
Rejoice greatly, O Daughter of Zion! ... See, your king comes to you, righteous and having salvation, gentle and riding on a donkey. This, the Lord has done; he entered Jerusalem riding on a donkey. But on the Mt of Olives as the looked down on Jerusalem, Jesus wept. Lu 1941 Why? Jesus explained, "If you, even you, had only known on this day what would bring you peace–but now it is hidden from your eyes. ... your enemies will not leave one stone on another, because you did not recognize the time of God's coming to you." Lu 1942-44 At that time the Jews did not recognise Jesus as the Son of God, as King. But he is coming again; and this time they will recognise him. Then the Lord will appear over them; his arrow will flash like lightning. ... The Lord their God will save them on that day as the flock of his people. They will sparkle in his land like jewels in a crown. How attractive and beautiful they will be! They will know the truth, and the truth will set them free. They will be a righteous and holy people, rejoicing in their God. And we Gentiles will be so glad to see them honoured in that day. |
| Zech 101 - 113 The Lord c.f. idols |
The idols speak deceit, diviners see visions that lie; they tell dreams that are false, they give comfort in vain. Therefore the people wander like sheep oppressed for lack of a shepherd. c.f. The Lord Almighty will care for his flock, the house of Judah ... From Judah will come the cornerstone, from him the tent peg ... I will strengthen the house of Judah and save the house of Joseph. I will restore them because I have compassion on them. ... Surely I will redeem them ... they will return. I will bring them back. Lies and deceit c.f. the Lord's revelation of truth and his gift of righteousness. |
Malachi [Contents]
The Jews had returned from their exile in Babylon, the rebuilding of the Temple had been completed (516 BC) under the leadership of Joshua and Zechariah. The people expected God to restore the covenant blessings; but he didn’t.
God knew their hearts and sent Malachi to tell them to repent: the priesthood had become corrupt, worship had become ‘routine’, divorce was widespread, social justice discarded and tithing was neglected. Prophets don’t have an easy life.
Yet Almighty God never threatened to abandon the Jews or annul his eternal covenant. But as he would later write, "The Lord disciplines those he loves, and he punishes everyone he accepts as a son." Heb 126
| Mal 11-5 Loved or hated by God |
The two sons of Isaac were like ‘chalk and cheese’; Jacob, the younger (by a few minutes) yearned to inherit the Covenant God gave to Abraham. Esau, the ‘original macho man’ was quite careless, he despised it and when hungry he sold it for a single meal! (Gen 2529-34) Now, 5 centuries later, God saw that Judah had become like Edom, the descendants of Esau. They said, "We are shattered but we will rebuild the ruins." But the Lord of hosts says, "They may build, but I will tears down ... they will be called ‘the wicked country ..." And he warned them, "Jacob I loved, but Esau I hated." |
| Mal 16 - 29 Priests’ polluted offerings |
The first question God asks the priests was simply if a son honours and respects his father, "Where is honour ... where is my fear?" Their attitude had become casual. The priests offered cheap animals that were blind or sick. What a contrast to Abel who offered the very best; such was his gratitude for God’s forgiveness. Then he tells them, "My name will be great among the nations (even Gentiles!), but you profane my name. They insulted the Lord God with their blemished sacrifices. He reminds them, I am a great King, says the LORD of hosts, and my name will be feared among the nations. If you will not listen, if you will not take it to heart to give honour to my name, says the LORD of hosts, then I will send the curse upon you ... the lips of a priest should guard knowledge ... but you have caused many to stumble ... therefore I make you despised and abased before all the people. The responsibility that God gives to priests and prophets is awesome. There is no place for any of us to stand before the Lord casually or with pride. God was pleased to honour the ministry of such men as Augustus Toplady whose constant cry for mercy and grace was rewarded with forgiveness and a church filled with people who were in like manner redeemed. |
| Mal 210-17 People worshipped idols |
Abomination has been committed in Israel. What had the people done? They worshipped idols. Today the idol is money. Whether the problem is Corona or Brexit the main argument always seems to be the economy. Israel wept because God did not prosper their work. And divorce was increasing. UK is currently passing new ‘no fault’ divorce law to make it quicker and easier. God was seeking godly offspring, not broken relationships. God still yearns to see faithfulness and truth. But the people, not knowing he difference between good and evil declare: "Everyone who does evil is good in the sight of the LORD, and he delights in them." In UK homosexuality has been legalised, babies murdered in abortion and God’s creation is rejected in favour of the Evolution Theory lie. God is not pleased. |
| Mal 31-5 God will respond |
God will not ignore man’s wilful, inexcusable sin. "Behold, I send my messenger, and he will prepare the way before me. ... But who can endure the day of his coming He will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver Then I will draw near to you for judgment. against those who ... do not fear me," says the LORD of hosts. Why did Israel, and why have we, chosen to discard our godly heritage? We have had the Word of God in English for almost 500 years. So we have no excuse. And it is also freely available on the internet. |
| Mal 36-15 So ‘Return to me’ |
The prophet tells Israel the truth: From the days of your fathers you have turned aside from my statutes and have not kept them. The most gracious God then gives them an opportunity: Return to me, and I will return to you, says the LORD of hosts. God then adds, and prove it by bringing your tithes to me. Furthermore he makes them a promise, in the day that you ‘return to me’: your vine in the field shall not fail to bear and all nations will call you blessed, for you will be a land of delight. |
| Mal 316 - 46 The Day of the Lord is coming |
A ‘Book of Remembrance’ was written of those who feared the Lord. And in that day you shall see the distinction between the righteous and the wicked. For you who fear my name, the sun of righteousness shall rise with healing in its wings. Malachi’s final prophecy was that Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the great and awesome day of the LORD comes. Jesus said that John the Baptist fulfilled this - if you are willing to accept it, he is Elijah who is to come. He who has ears to hear, let him hear. Math 1114 There will be a second ‘awesome day’ when Jesus returns to his earth. Rev 11 reveals two witnesses who will prophesy with great power for 1,260 days. They will be killed by the evil Beast and resurrected after 3½ days. |
Matthew [Contents]
Genealogy is very important to the Jews, so Matthew begins his gospel with this to justify the right of Jesus of Nazareth to be the Messiah, great David's greater son, the King of the Jews. His lineage proves he is legally a rightful heir.
| Math 11-17 Genealogy of Christ |
A record of the genealogy of Jesus Christ the son of David, the son of Abraham and the Son of God - the longed-for promised Messiah. There are some surprising female names included in the list: Rahab the harlot, Ruth the Moabite and Bathsheba (Uriah's wife). Also Jeconiah (Jehoiachin) who was cursed. None of his children became king and Jesus was legally of David's line, but physically the Son of God by virgin birth. The list includes some good and some very bad individuals. But part 1 of the promise of God was fulfilled; we eagerly await part 2, the return of Christ as King of his earth. |
| Math 118-24 The birth of Christ |
God chose Joseph and Mary very carefully. Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be with child through the Holy Spirit. Mary knew this extraordinary miracle to be the truth. Others needed more than her word to be convinced. Joseph was assured by an angel, who also told him about the purpose of God's action: "She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins." He believed this truth. He took Mary home as his wife. But he had no union with her until she gave birth to a son. And he gave him the name Jesus. (Yeshua = 'the Lord saves'). But the redemptive cost by which our sins can be forgiven - crucifixion - was not revealed to him at this time. |
| Math 21-12 The Magi |
Magi from the east came to Jerusalem and asked, "Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star in the east and have come to worship him." They came from the east, Persia, so travelled west. They didn't 'follow' this star. The knew from the prophecy of Daniel that the Messiah would be born in Jerusalem. So that's where they went. What was 'his star in the east'? From star chart programs there are no obvious multi conjunctions of the planets in Leo or ??? Whatever it was, they saw it rise just before sunrise in the east, then disappear in daylight. And they were right, it was the moment God had chosen to be born on earth! The chief priests were able to tell them that the birth would be in Bethlehem - but where in Bethlehem? The eastern 'star' now moved and hovered over the stable where Jesus was born. So the Magi found the exact place. They rejoiced exceedingly with great joy. And going into the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother, and they fell down and worshipped him. Then, opening their treasures, they offered him gifts, gold and frankincense and myrrh. Their gifts had been carefully chosen and had prophetic significance. 2 Ch 924 Song of S. 36 Almighty God warned the Magi not to return to Herod, who had a very different objective concerning the birth of his Son, Jesus. |
| Math 213-18 Herod murders the children |
Almighty God knows everything that has ever happened and also all the future.
He sends an angel to warn Joseph about Herod's intentions: "Rise, take the child and his mother, and flee to Egypt, and remain there until I tell you, for Herod is about to search for the child, to destroy him." And he instantly obeys - he does not wait until morning. Matthew had a good knowledge of the prophets comments; This was to fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet, "Out of Egypt I called my son." When Herod realised the Magi were not going to tell him where Jesus was, he was furious and murdered all the children under 2 who were in or near Bethlehem. Again this fulfilled a prophecy: "A voice was heard in Ramah, weeping and loud lamentation, Rachel weeping for her children; she refused to be comforted, because they are no more." Although there will no more be tears in the new creation, I expect this brutal act caused God to weep too. |
| Math 219-23 Return to Nazareth |
Herod died painfully in 4 BC. Only then did an angel go to Egypt to tell Joseph in a dream, "Rise, take the child and his mother and go to the land of Israel, for those who sought the child's life are dead." Being afraid to return to Judea, they went to Nazareth, where they had originally come from (Lu 126 24,39), so that what was spoken by the prophets might be fulfilled, that he would be called a Nazarene. There is no direct OT reference to this, but many that the Messiah would be despised or separated. Nathanael used this common assumption that no good could come out of Nazareth (Jn 146) and this is what was spoken of by the prophets. |
| Math 31-12 John Baptist and Repentance |
Matthew reveals that the prime message of John Baptist was:
"Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near." His commission was to prepare the way for the coming of the Son of God. Jesus began his ministry with exactly the same instruction (417). At the heart of almost all historical revivals is the fact that ordinary and wicked men alike are on their knees crying, "God have mercy on me!" This is so much more than giving up one or two bad habits and trying 'to folllow Jesus'. But rather, it brings into full view the just judgement of Almighty God for my sinful life and the awful realisation that there is nothing I can do to avoid it. Many evangelists today (often using the Alpha Course) skip past this essential door to eternal life. John Baptist thought truth was much more important than being popular. He did not wear fine clothes or eat rich food. He fully proclaimed God's truth. People went out to him from Jerusalem and all Judea and the whole region of the Jordan. Confessing their sins, they were baptized by him in the Jordan River. Like people flocked to hear the Wesley brothers, Whitfield, Augustus Toplady, J.C.Ryle, ... But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees coming to where he was baptizing, he said to them: "You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the coming wrath? Produce fruit in keeping with repentance. And do not think you can say to yourselves, 'We have Abraham as our father.' I tell you that ... every tree that does not produce good fruit will be cut down and thrown into the fire. I baptize you with water for repentance. But after me will come one who is more powerful than I, whose sandals I am not fit to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire. His winnowing fork is in his hand, and he will clear his threshing floor, gathering his wheat into the barn and burning up the chaff with unquenchable fire." With such words it should not be a surprise that Jesus commends John as being the greatest of all the prophets (Lu 728). He prepared the way faithfully and well. |
| Math 313-17 Jesus Baptised |
Jesus came down to John at the Jordan to be baptised. John naturally thought it should be reversed. But Jesus answered him, "Let it be so now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness." Then he consented.
When Jesus went up out of the water: 1. The heavens were opened to him (to John). 2. He (John) saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and coming to rest on him. 3. Behold, a voice from heaven said, "This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased." (Quoting from Ps 27 Is 421) The apostle John records John Baptist saying, "The reason I came baptising with water was that he (Jesus) might be revealed to Israel." Jn 131 What needed to be revealed? That to 'fulfill all righteousness', sin needed to be forgiven. So John Baptist cried out, "Behold! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world." Jn 129 Our baptism is a witness to the world that Jesus has taken away our sin. His baptism was a witness to the world (and especially to John) that he had come to achieve this, and thus bring true righteousness to sinful men. No wonder his Father was so pleased. |
| Math 41-11 Satan loses the battle |
Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. These temptations were part of God's plan. They were not to test Jesus, but an opportunity to achieve such a decisive victory that would prove to all that he is the Son of God. Jesus recounted the experience to his disciples so that they would learn how to follow his example.
1. "If you are the Son of God, command these stones to become loaves of bread."
2. Then the devil took him to the holy city and set him on the pinnacle of the temple and said to him, "If you are the Son of God, throw yourself down, for it is written, 'He will command his angels concerning you,' and 'On their hands they will bear you up, lest you strike your foot against a stone'."
3. Again, the devil took him to a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their glory. And he said to him, "All these I will give you, if you will fall down and worship me." Then the devil left him, and behold, angels came and were ministering to him. |
| Math 412-17 Jesus moves to Galilee |
When Herod Antipas (tetrarch of Galilee and Perea) arrested John Baptist who had condemned his marriage to Herodias (the divorced wife of his half-brother), Jesus went to Capernaum by the sea, in the territory of Zebulun and Naphtali. This fulfilled the prophecy: The land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, the way of the sea, beyond the Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles— the people dwelling in darkness have seen a great light, and for those dwelling in the region and shadow of death, on them a light has dawned. Is 91,2 During the next 3 years Jesus spent much time in Capernaum and did many 'mighty works' there. (1123) The 'Light of the world' shone brightly, but only a few had eyes to see the truth that he so clearly revealed. (Jn 666) This was largely due to their failure to obey his instruction: From that time Jesus began to preach, saying, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand." 60 years ago it was common in many UK cities to see men with such a banner with these (or similar) words witnessing in the streets. Most, if not all, of our national problems today stem from the refusal of this once so privileged nation to heed God's warnings. |
| Math 418-22 Jesus calls 4 fishermen |
Walking beside Galilee Jesus saw Peter and Andrew. "Come, follow me," Jesus said, "and I will make you fishers of men." At once they left their nets and followed him. Going a little further he called two other fishermen, James and John. And they too immediately left their father and their nets and followed Jesus. How different from two other Jesus called who each replied, "Let me first go and ..." Lu 959-62 Jesus expects a wholehearted response from all whom he calls. Any halfheartedness reveals a heart that has no appreciation of who is calling! |
| Math 423-25 Jesus peaches and heals |
Jesus went throughout Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the good news of the kingdom, and healing every disease and sickness among the people. Not surprisingly, as reports circulated, large crowds came and he healed them all! |
| Math 51-12 Jesus taught the crowds |
Jesus had great compassion and power to heal the sick in body. But even more for the whole world that is universally 'sin-sick'. How could these be saved? 1. Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. The first step towards salvation is to realise just how desperately poor we all are. Not financially, but 'in spirit'. A most prevalent and popular teaching today is to tell men the satanic falsehood "stand up for yourself, be proud of yourself, promote yourself, assert yourself ..." To enter the kingdom of God a man must confess his sinfulness, his inability to be good, his abject poverty. A man can have all the intellect, wealth, power, health, popularity and be content without God, but this is everlasting poverty. Admitting this is an essential first step.
2. Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.
3. Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.
4. Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.
5. Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.
6. Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.
7. Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.
8. Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. |
| Math 513-16 Salt and Light |
You are the salt of the earth. Salt is used to preserve food and also to enhance its flavour. As Christians do we preserve God's truth and make him attractive? You are the light of the world. The wicked world has lost its way and stumbles in the darkness. How can we tell and show people the 'light' of Jesus Christ and make known his offer of salvation, and so help them to see the glory of his Father and his fantastic creation? |
| Math 517-20 Christ fulfills the Law |
"Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them." Some strive to keep the Law, thinking that this may earn them a place in heaven. But no man (except Jesus) has ever been able to keep God's Law. Everyone fails. Other 'followers of Jesus' say that because they have been saved they are no longer under the Law and can do whatever they like. It is true that believers are no longer under the Law's condemnation, but what Jesus said here reveals that the Law still stands. New birth should enable us to be righteous and keep the Law. Jesus alone was able to fulfill the Law's just demand of a perfect sacrifice for sin. His coming and his willingness to be crucified was what the Prophets proclaimed throughout the centuries. Thus the Law concerning sacrifices is now redundant. We should remember that while his sacrifice is complete, 'finished'; the Law and the Prophets also proclaim that his righteous kingdom will be established only when he returns as King. This we await with great longing. |
| Math 521-48 "But I say to you ...." |
The Law of God concerning everyday life is stricter than is often thought! Jesus tells us some surprising extensions to the law concerning anger, lust, divorce, oaths, retaliation, and enemies - just in case we have any tendency to self-righteousness! He ends with: "You therefore must be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect." Only with the great grace of God can we even begin to walk down this road. |
| Math 61-8, 16-18 Beware of self righteousness |
In the presence of Almighty God any form of boasting is always inappropriate. e.g. in charitable giving, praying, fasting. "Beware of practising your righteousness before other people in order to be seen by them ... But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret." "When you pray, go into your room and shut the door and pray to your Father who is in secret." Those seeking popularity will usually try to appear better than they are. |
| Math 69-15 The Lord's Prayer |
Our Father in heaven, hallowed be Your name. Your kingdom come. Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And do not lead us into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one. For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen. (NKJV) The last line is omitted in some translations. Jesus says our forgiveness is dependent upon our willingness to forgive others. Luke includes that the disciples sought to be taught how to pray. (Lu 111) |
| Math 619 - 729 Various teachings |
Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth ... For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
The eye is the lamp of the body. You cannot serve God and money.
Do not worry about your life, (what you eat or wear or tomorrow) ... Do not judge, or you too will be judged. Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find.
Enter by the narrow gate ... Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way
Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing ...
Not everyone who says to Me, 'Lord, Lord,' shall enter the kingdom of heaven,
Whoever hears these sayings of mine, and does them,
The crowds were amazed at his teaching, |
| Math 81-17 Jesus heals many |
A man with leprosy came and knelt before him and said, "Lord, if you are willing, you can make me clean." Jesus reached out his hand and touched the man. "I am willing," he said. "Be clean!" Immediately he was cured of his leprosy. He then commanded him not to tell anyone except to go to the priest - as a testimony to them. The power and compassion of Jesus is not in question, but he did not want healing to become the main object of his ministry. But he did want the priests to know firsthand. A Centurion had a servant who was paralysed and suffering terribly, so he asked Jesus for help. He recognised that he was not worthy and requested that Jesus just give the command to heal, which he did. And the servant was healed immediately. Jesus commended him, "I have not found anyone in Israel with such great faith." When they came to Peter's home, his mother-in-law had a fever; she was healed. That evening, many who were demon-possessed were brought to him, and he drove out the spirits with a word and healed all the sick. Such is the power and kindness of the Lord God for all who suffer. |
| Math 818-22 Who will 'follow'? |
Jesus was becoming popular - for the wrong reasons; so when Jesus saw the crowd around him, he gave orders to cross to the other side of the lake. When there, one of the Scribes volunteered to follow him, but Jesus declined. Another was invited to follow, but wanted to first bury his father. These incidents are helpful when considering 'election'. |
| Math 823-27 Storm obeys Jesus! |
Throughout life there are many storms that threaten and discourage us; but Jesus is the Master of them all. Lord, please help us to remember this truth as we pray for friends and many others who are today being battered. Be still, my soul: thy God doth undertake To guide the future as he has the past. Thy hope, thy confidence let nothing shake; All now mysterious shall be bright at last. Be still, my soul: the wind and waves still know His voice who ruled them while he dwelt below. |
| Math 828-34 Men with demons |
Jesus casts out demons from two Gadarene men. The demons ask to go into pigs. Jesus agrees their request. The pigs all rush down the cliff and are drowned in the sea. The city then ask Jesus to leave their region. Economics is too often seen as more important than righteousness. (e.g. Brexit) |
| Math 91-8 Paralytic forgiven and healed |
In Capernaum they brought a paralytic to Jesus. But surprisingly the first thing he said to sick man was, "Take heart, my son; your sins are forgiven." The Scribes and Pharisees considered this to be blasphemy. So Jesus asks them, "Why do you think evil in your hearts? For which is easier, to say, 'Your sins are forgiven,' or to say, 'Rise and walk'? But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins"—he then said to the paralytic—"Rise, pick up your bed and go home." And he rose and went home. Presumably the man's paralysis was related to some sin that he first had to know was forgiven. There is no record of the Pharisees being willing to recognise the authority of Jesus to forgive sins. But this was the very reason he came to be a sacrifice on earth. In heaven, he now lives and reigns to intercede for us. Heb 725 Our need for forgiveness is too often neglected. |
| Math 99-13 A tax-collector called |
As Jesus passed on from there, he saw a man called Matthew sitting at the tax booth, and he said to him, "Follow me." And he rose and followed him. Just two words. So simple. So immediate. Matthew gives no autobiographical explanation. But there were others (Pharisees) who criticised, and questioned Jesus: "Why does your teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?" The answer was also simple : "Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. ... For I came not to call the righteous, but sinners." But for those who do not admit their guilt, the answer will not seem simple. |
| Math 814-17 Another question |
The disciples of John came to him, saying, "Why do we and the Pharisees fast, but your disciples do not fast?" Men fast because their hearts are fill with unfulfilled longing. John was 'preparing the way', he taught repentance and provoked a hunger for God and righteousness. Jesus fulfilled this, so he answered their sincere question: "Can the wedding guests mourn as long as the bridegroom is with them? The days will come when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast." There is a time to sing and a time to mourn. (Ecc 34) |
| Math 918-26 A girl dies and lives again. A bleeding woman is healed |
A synagogue ruler asks Jesus the impossible: "My daughter has just died, but come and lay your hand on her, and she will live." We might have replied, 'I cannot do that; who do you think I am?' Jesus was different; he rose and followed him! But this wasn't the only problem. In the crowd there was a woman who had suffered from a discharge of blood for twelve years came up behind him and touched the fringe of his garment. ... And instantly the woman was made well. Jesus had not said a word or done anything; in fact he had to ask the crowd that surrounded him "Who touched me?" (Lu 845) When the woman confessed she had touched him, Jesus commends her faith. When Jesus came to the ruler's home there was a commotion of mourners. They laughed when he told them the girl was only 'sleeping'. Jesus put the crowd outside and then raised the dead girl. He would later raise the widow of Nain's son and also Lazarus. Such was the power and compassion of the Son of God. |
| Math 927-34 More healing |
Two blind men followed him, crying aloud, "Have mercy on us, Son of David." Jesus asked them if they believed he was able to heal them. "Yes, Lord," they said. He touched their eyes and they could see. He sternly told them to tell no one about it, but they went away and spread his fame through all that district. Though understandable, disobedience cancels all real gratitude. As they were going away, behold, a demon-oppressed man who was mute was brought to him. And when the demon had been cast out, the mute man spoke. In this case a demon had caused his muteness. |
| Math 935-38 Sheep without a shepherd |
How does Jesus see us today? Still 'harassed and helpless' in this technically proficient world? Would he still go throughout all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom anhealing every disease and every affliction ? Would he still have to say, "The harvest is plentiful, but the labourers are few; therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out labourers into his harvest" ? - before it is too late! Although Jesus still has compassion it may be he would have to chastise the proud, blasphemous, deceitful West that so rarely has any inclination to repent. It is significant that the '7 Woes' in chapter 23 comes immediately before his revelation concerning the Last Days. Ezek 34 describes how the Sovereign Lord is against the false shepherds and will hold them accountable. Then he declares this is what the Sovereign Lord says: I myself will search for my sheep and look after them. As a shepherd looks after his scattered flock when he is with them, so will I look after my sheep. I will rescue them from all the places where they were scattered on a day of clouds and darkness. |
| Math 101-42 12 called and sent out |
Jesus calls his 12 disciples and gave them authority over unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal every disease and every affliction. He made them Apostles, with these detailed, and sometimes surprising, instructions: "Go nowhere among the Gentiles and enter no town of the Samaritans, but go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. And proclaim as you go, saying, 'The kingdom of heaven is at hand'. ... Acquire no gold or silver ... And whatever town or village you enter, find out who is worthy in it and stay there until you depart. ... Behold, I am sending you out as sheep in the midst of wolves ... Beware of men, for they will deliver you over to courts and flog you in their synagogues and you will be dragged before governors and kings for my sake, to bear witness before them and the Gentiles. ... But the one who endures to the end will be saved. ... So have no fear of them ... Rather fear him who can destroy both soul and body in hell. ... whoever denies me before men, I also will deny before my Father who is in heaven. ... Do not think that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I have not come to bring peace, but a sword. ... and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it. ... Whoever receives you receives me, and whoever ... receives a prophet because he is a prophet will receive a prophet's reward, and the one who receives a righteous person because he is a righteous person will receive a righteous person's reward. History supports that none of the Apostles died comfortably in their beds! And many missionaries have died serving their Lord and Master. All have been welcomed with much joy into the Kingdom of heaven. |
| Math 111-19 Jesus and John Baptist |
John, who had been imprisoned by Herod for saying his marriage was illegal, heard what Jesus was doing. So he asked, "Are you the one who was to come, or should we expect someone else?" What did he expect Christ to be doing? He knew he was 'the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world' (Jn 129) but what else did he expect from Christ, the Messiah, the King of kings? Jesus did not answer his question directly; he just did what the scripture said Messiah would do. Then will the eyes of the blind be opened and the ears of the deaf unstopped. Then will the lame leap like a deer, and the mute tongue shout for joy. Is 355,6 Then he tells the messengers to report what they had seen and how the good news was being preached to the poor. And he adds, "Blessed is the man who does not fall away on account of me." John would have found their report highly encouraging. Jesus then told the crowd about John Baptist by asking them a rhetorical question: "What did you go out into the desert to see?" a reed ... a prince ... 'a prophet'? Yes, I tell you, and more than a prophet. This is the one about whom it is written: 'I will send my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way before you'. ..." He told the crowd that John was the greatest prophet because only he could say that Messiah has come! It was not because he was the most successful or influential! But in spite of this privilege, Jesus had to warn them that they were like children sitting in the marketplaces and calling out to others: 'We played the flute for you, and you did not dance; we sang a dirge, and you did not mourn.' The crowd rejoiced at all the healings, but very few realised, or even desired, the vital purpose of the Son of God coming to earth, which was to be the propitiation for sin, to be the promised 'Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world'. |
| Math 1120-24 Miracles - a problem! |
Then Jesus began to denounce the cities in which most of his miracles had been performed, because they did not repent. Jesus singles out Korazin, Bethsaida and Capernaum for criticism, and warned them that "It will be more bearable for Sodom on the day of judgment than for you." Jesus had seen the evidence that his compassion to heal brought many enthusiastic people to follow him, but it didn't cause them to repent or believe in him for forgiveness. (See Jn 666 - one of the saddest verses in scripture). Note also that this did not end his compassion, nor stop his delight in healing all who came to him. These verses show that testimony of gratitude to God for healing or changing our physical circumstances, if it is without repentance of sin, seeking God's mercy and believing why Jesus was crucified, does not lead to salvation, but to judgement. |
| Math 1125-30 To whom is God revealed? |
Almighty God is pleased to reveal himself to 'little children', rather than to those who are considered wise. He invites all who labour and are heavy laden, those like Christian in The Pilgrims Progress who have a heavy and irremovable burden of sin on their backs. And to all who come he promises "I will give you rest ... you will find rest for your souls." But for the so-called 'wise and learned' there is no rest, no revelation and no relief of forgiveness because there is no admission of guilt. |
| Math 121-14 Jesus - Lord of the Sabbath |
Anyone who violates history and tradition is open to criticism - or worse! One of the reasons for the Babylonian exile was that the Jews failed to keep the Sabbath years. (2 Ch 3621 Lev 2634,35,43) God had commanded that the land should also have a Sabbath every 7th year in which no seed is sown. Lev 251-7 Ezra and the 'Oral Law' (later written in the Mishnah ~200 AD) made 1,500 laws concerning the Sabbath; mostly regulating what they were allowed or not allowed to do. They were determined to avoid another exile. The 4th Commandment is to keep the Sabbath holy, do no work and remember the wonder of God's creation. The hungry disciples of Jesus were rubbing out and eating a handful of grain - not harvesting a field! The nit-picking Pharisees accused them of doing what was 'unlawful'. But they had upgraded man's law to be God's law. So Jesus vigorously defends his disciples by exposing their inconsistency by reminding them that they did criticise David when he ate bread reserved for the priests. In the plan of God, some time later Jesus went into their synagogue, and a man with a shrivelled hand was there. Looking for a reason to accuse Jesus, they even had the audacity to ask him, "Is it lawful to heal on the Sabbath?" His answer was one of the many 'classics'. "If any of you has a sheep and it falls into a pit on the Sabbath, will you not take hold of it and lift it out? How much more valuable is a man than a sheep! Therefore it is lawful to do good on the Sabbath." Simple, direct, and accurate; it revealed their hypocrisy. Jesus then underlined the wisdom and compassion of God by telling the man, "Stretch out your hand." So he stretched it out and it was completely restored, just as sound as the other. The Pharisees were not humbled by this brilliant demonstration. Their reaction revealed the degree of evil in their hearts. They went out and plotted how they might kill Jesus ! This was the first of seven* separate occasions when the Pharisees would attack Jesus concerning the Sabbath. *(also Mk 121-28 Lu 1310-17 Lu 141-16 Jn 51-15 Jn 714-24 Jn 91-41) |
| Math 1215-21 Jesus fulfills Is 421-4 |
Jesus withdrew, but he healed all their sick, warning them not to tell who he was. This was to fulfill what was spoken through the prophet Isaiah: What did Isaiah say? And how did Jesus fulfill it? "Here is my servant whom I have chosen, the one I love, in whom I delight; ..." Almighty God had confirmed his Sonship at his baptism with John: "This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased." 317 Though some were plotting to kill him; his Father was pleased and some of the people were too. "He will proclaim justice to the nations." Justice - that is the propitiation, the redemption achieved by Jesus, would be proclaimed to the Gentiles. This would delight his Father. "He will not quarrel or cry out; no one will hear his voice in the streets." He submitted to the cross, he did not call upon legions of angels. Though he and his disciples would declare God's truth, few would hear. All the people in the synagogue were furious when they heard this. They got up, drove him out of the town ... Lu 428 and see Is 69,10 A bruised reed he will not break, and a smoldering wick he will not snuff out, till he leads justice to victory. It may seem to some that the Cross was a defeat. It wasn't. It was the very means of bringing eternal life to all who repent and believe. The day will surely come when he will return and prove his victory to the world and establish justice. In his name the nations will put their hope. Gentiles are now included in the invitation. We can trust in the God of Israel, The Lord Almighty. And know our hope is not a dream but is totally reliable since it is founded upon the eternal Word of God and what he has done. All this God revealed to Isaiah some 6 centuries before Jesus walked in Galilee! |
| Math 1222-37 Who drives out Satan? |
A blind and mute man was possessed by a demon. When they brought him to Jesus he cast out the demon. The man then saw and spoke.
The people were astonished, but the Pharisees said, "It is only by Beelzebub, the prince of demons." Jesus challenged this obvious lie: 1. "Every kingdom divided against itself will be ruined ..." 2. "If I drive out demons by Beelzebub, by whom do your people drive them out? If I drive out demons by the Spirit of God, then the kingdom of God has come upon you." 3. "He who is not with me is against me ... I tell you, every sin and blasphemy will be forgiven men, but the blasphemy against the Spirit will not be forgiven." 4. "A tree is recognized by its fruit." 5. "I tell you that men will have to give account on the day of judgment for every careless word they have spoken. For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned." Jesus warned the Pharisees clearly that their careless words would not be forgiven and they would stand condemned on the day of judgment. They had no idea that they were accusing the Son of God, who by his word had created the whole world. Let us beware what we say and how we react. In death may Jesus be our Advocate. Before the throne of God above, I have a strong , a perfect plea; A great High-priest, whose name is Love, Who ever lives and pleads for me. |
| Math 1238-45 The Sign of Jonah and today |
The Pharisees came to Jesus wanting to see a miraculous sign to prove his claims. He told them, "A wicked and adulterous generation asks for a miraculous sign! But none will be given it except the sign of the prophet Jonah. ..." Then he warned them that when an evil spirit comes out of a man, it's vacancy is replace by seven others more evil than the one that left. Jesus concludes, "That is how it will be with this wicked generation." The occasional deliverance of a demon achieved by the Pharisees (see previous notes above) was not replaced by repentance, righteousness and truth. It left the man wide open to evil. The testimony of modern miracles rarely leads to men confessing their sin, realising its consequence and pleading with God for mercy. Jesus healed and delivered men out of compassion for them, not to endorse his ministry. The sign of Jonah was that God raised him from the dead after 3 days in the great fish. So Jesus, the Son of Man will be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth. And his Father would likewise raise Jesus from the dead - victorious over our sin and death. It is significant that Jesus tells us that the death of Jonah and his being raised led to the fact that the men of Nineveh ... repented at the preaching of Jonah. The resurrection of Jesus would enable the gates of heaven to be opened to all who repent and believe. This is what Jesus revealed when the Pharisees asked to see a miracle. The greatest miracle is the salvation given to sinners. |
| Math 1246-50 Relationship with Jesus |
Matthew has many snippets of useful information - this is one. As was often the case, Jesus was surrounded by a crowd. He was told his mother and brothers stood outside wanting to speak to him. He made a surprising reply. "Who is my mother, and who are my brothers?" Pointing to his disciples, he said, "Here are my mother and my brothers. For whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother." This was not to degrade his family, but to reveal the privileged relationship that the disciples of Jesus have with him. It bears a similarity to what he said to Mary and Joseph in the Temple when aged 12; "Why did you seek Me? Did you not know that I must be about My Father's business?" Lu 249 The priorities of Jesus are often different from ours. |
| Math 131-23 Why parable preaching? |
This is often mistakenly called the parable of the Sower. It isn't about the farmer, but about the seed that he sows, what happens to it? 1. Fell on path. Hard, flat ground easy for birds to eat it. God's truth not understood, the evil one comes and snatches away what was sown in his heart. 2. Fell on rocky places. Too little soil, sprang up quickly but scorched by sun. died because no root. Unable to last, especially when trouble or persecution comes. 3. Fell among thorns. Grew up but choked. This man hears the word, but the worries of this life and the deceitfulness of wealth choke it, making it unfruitful. 4. Fell on good ground. Produced a good crop. This man hears the word and understands it. And by implication, treasures and obeys it. Disciples ask Jesus, "Why do you speak to the people in parables?" He replied, "The knowledge of the secrets of the kingdom of heaven has been given to you, but not to them. ... this people's heart has become calloused ..." Parables are not to make a truth more easy to remember or understand, but so that only those who hearts are open would learn, and the others would not. To prove this point, consider the parable of the man who built hus house on the rock or on sand. Everyone knows that to build with a rock foundation is better. But this is not why Jesus told this parable. "Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. ... Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. ..." Math 721-27 Few know or truly understand the reason why Jesus said he told this parable. In the 3 synoptic gospels are recorded 40 of the parables Jesus told. The stories are simple, but test if you know why he told each of them. See website "Parables" (Use back arrow to return here) |
| Math 1324-52 More parables |
Weeds Enemy sows weeds among good seed. They grow together until harvest. Only then weeds separated and burned and wheat put into God's barn. Mustard Though smallest seed it becomes largest garden tree. Yeast Mixed with large amount of flour, kneaded until well worked throughout. Treasure When found in field, hidden, sold all he had, then bought field. Pearl Merchant found best pearl. Sold all he had and bought it. Net Net catches all kinds of fish. When full separated, bad thrown away.
"Have you understood all these things?" Jesus asked. |
| Math 1353-58 Jesus returns to Nazareth |
He began teaching the people in their synagogue, and they were amazed. "Where did this man get this wisdom and these miraculous powers?" they asked. They asked this because they knew where he came from - or thought they did ! And it wasn't a genuine, open-hearted question. They were offended. So Jesus told them the truth: "Only in his hometown .. is a prophet without honour." How could a carpenter's son be a prophet? Let alone the Son of God ! Clearly Nazareth was not a spiritual town, in spite of his 30 years of witness. Matthew comments that their lack of faith prevented many miracles. |
| Math 141-12 Herod beheads John Baptist |
'Power corrupts'. And Herod was no exception. He imprisoned John not because he had committed any crime, but because he didn't like what he said. John had told him that it was against the law to marry his brother Philip's wife. Herodias didn't like John either - for the same reason. She waited and took the opportunity for revenge when their sensual daughter danced on her birthday. Herod foolishly promised her anything she wanted. Her mother primed her to ask for John's head! She got her request on a platter. There are several obvious lessons from this. Some time later, when Herod heard about what Jesus was doing, he continued his folly by saying that Jesus must be John Baptist, risen from the dead. It is in the same field as the Pope who recently made the traitor to Protestants, Cardinal Newman a 'Saint', because two people witnessed they had been healed after praying to Newman - and Archbishop Welby celebrated it with them. |
| Math 1413-21 Jesus feeds 5,000 men + ... |
Jesus withdrew by boat privately to a solitary place. But the crowd followed him. He had compassion on them and healed their sick. All too soon it was evening. They hadn't brought any food - only 5 loaves and 2 fish. Jesus told them to sit down, gave thanks, and the disciple distributed the multiplied food. They all ate and were satisfied, without realising what had happened. There were about five thousand men, besides women and children. |
| Math 1422-36 Walking on water |
Jesus dismissed the crowd, sent the disciples back in the boat and went up mountain to pray. At midnight the boat was struggling against a head-wind so Jesus walked out to them on the water! The disciples were terrified. Jesus said, "Take courage! It is I. Don't be afraid." "Lord, if it's you," Peter replied, "tell me to come to you on the water." "Come," he said. After Peter had taken a few steps on the water he saw the wind, he was afraid beginning to sink, cried out, "Lord, save me!" Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. "You of little faith," he said, "Why did you doubt?" When Jesus and Peter got into the boat, the wind died. They would not forget this practical lesson. How does Jesus teach us? |
| Math 151-20 Clean or unclean? |
Pharisees and Scribes ask Jesus, "Why do your disciples break the tradition of the elders? They don't wash their hands before they eat!" Why did they ask Jesus, and not the disciples? They wanted to incriminate Jesus. They wanted to be able to accuse Jesus of disobeying their Law. Jesus refuses to answer their quest and reveals how they break God's command so they can gain money which should have been given to parents. "You Hypocrites!" Isaiah was right when he prophesied about you: " 'These people honour me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me ...'" Then he said to the crowd, "Listen and understand. What goes into a man's mouth does not make him 'unclean,' but what comes out of his mouth, that is what makes him 'unclean.' " And then he explained why. "The things that come out of the mouth come from the heart, and these make a man 'unclean.' For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false testimony, slander. These are what make a man 'unclean'; but eating with unwashed hands does not make him 'unclean.' " The Pharisees were more concerned with appearances, rather than the heart. Did they expect the fishermen on Galilee to rinse their hands in the lake before eating their lunch-box?! On another occasion Jesus told them, "For out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks." Math 1234 |
| Math 1521-28 Faith of Canaanite lady |
Jesus withdrew to the region of Tyre and Sidon. Why? Not a Jewish area. Sent there by Father to minister to Canaanite woman's daughter. She cried out,"Lord, Son of David, have mercy on me ..." The response of Jesus was surprising - Jesus did not answer a word. His disciples urged him to send her away, but he didn't. He only said, "I was sent only to the lost sheep of Israel." True. So why was he there? The woman came and knelt before him. "Lord, help me!" she said. Did this change the response of Jesus? It seems not for he said, "It is not right to take the children's bread and toss it to their dogs." Her reply was a classic. It drew out her faith and was what Jesus was waiting for. "Yes, Lord," she said,"but even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their masters' table." Jesus gladly commended her faith and her daughter was healed. His work done; Jesus returned to Galilee. This beautiful story has much to teach us Gentiles concerning how privileged we are to be included in God's covenant of salvation with Abraham and the Jews. |
| Math 1529-31 Many healed |
Great crowds came to him, bringing with them the lame, the blind, the crippled, the mute, and many others, and they put them at his feet, and he healed them. A one sentence report makes it sound so easy. But it needed the Son of God! |
| Math 1532-39 4,000+ fed |
The second occasion when Jesus feeds a multitude. The crowd only had 7 loaves and 2 fish. All ate and were satisfied. Collected 7 baskets of 'left-overs'. |
| Math 161-4 Sign seekers rebuked, again See 1238-45 |
The Pharisees and Sadducees came, and to test him asked for a sign from heaven. Jesus told them they could forecast the weather from the appearance of the sky, but you cannot interpret the signs of the times. They had no idea who was speaking to them, nor the purpose of his coming to earth. Why were they so blind? Jesus then told them, "An evil and adulterous generation seeks for a sign, but no sign will be given to it except the sign of Jonah." They had already been given a sign - Jonah - but they would have to wait till after he was crucified and raised from the dead for them to see that he fulfilled this miracle. |
| Math 165-12 Beware of false teachers |
"Watch and beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and Sadducees." But Jesus had to tell them that the 'leaven' was not bread, but their false teaching. |
| Math 1613-28 Who was Jesus? Saviour or King? Both - and in that order. |
Jesus asks two questions. 1. "Who do people say that the Son of Man is?" Answer: "Some say John the Baptist, others say Elijah, and others Jeremiah or one of the prophets." They were not expecting their Messiah; especially not as an 'ordinary' man! 2. "But who do you say that I am?" Did the disciples know any better? Simon Peter replied, "You are the Christ, the Son of the living God." Spot on. But he still had no idea that Messiah was first to be Redeemer. The identity and purpose of the Son of God is has to be revealed by the Holy Spirit. Jesus said, "Blessed are you, Simon Bar-Jonah! For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my Father who is in heaven." And furthermore on this truth, "on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it." Then he strictly charged the disciples to tell no one that he was the Christ. He did not want the people to make him their king. In the plan of God, that was reserved for a later time (2,000 years later!). It was vital that he first had to be crucified, to gain the propitiation for our sins. This remains a problem today when men are encouraged that they can just follow a King, without the need to first receive the mercy of God and be relieved of the burden of the guilt of sin.
Following these questions; From that time Jesus began to show his disciples that he must go to Jerusalem and suffer many things from the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and on the third day be raised.
Then Jesus told his disciples, "If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it. For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his soul? Or what shall a man give in return for his soul? For the Son of Man is going to come with his angels in the glory of his Father ..." |
| Math 171-13 Transfiguration |
Jesus took Peter, James and John up a high mountain to pray. There follows an extraordinary event during which Jesus was transfigured and talked with Moses and Elijah). Lu 931 records that They spoke about his departure. The Law and the Prophets each prepared and revealed the plan of Almighty God to redeem sinful men. So Jesus told them how he was about to be crucified and be the perfect sacrifice that they had proclaimed all those centuries earlier. The excited and impetuous Peter still did not understand what Jesus had to do, though he had told him plainly just a week earlier. In the plan of God Passover must come before Yom Kippur and Tabernacles. The ever graceful God spoke to him from the cloud, "This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased. Listen to him!" There is much more that is not recorded. As they were coming down the mountain, Jesus instructed them, "Don't tell anyone what you have seen, until the Son of Man has been raised from the dead." It would only be after the resurrection that any of the apostles understood why Jesus had come to die - to bear the punishment for sin that we deserve. (See Lu 2445-49). The disciples also asked about how Elijah must come first. Jesus told them, "Elijah has already come, and they did not recognize him, but have done to him everything they wished. In the same way the Son of Man is going to suffer at their hands." Then the disciples understood that he was talking to them about John the Baptist./TD> |
| Math 1714-21 Boy delivered from demon |
A man approached Jesus and knelt before him, "Lord, have mercy on my son." There was a problem the man explained. Disciples were unable to heal the boy. "O unbelieving and perverse generation," Jesus replied, "how long shall I stay with you?" Then Jesus rebuked the demon ... and he was healed. Then the disciples came to Jesus in private and asked, "Why couldn't we drive it out?" He replied, "Because you have so little faith." It is easier to believe that Jesus can heal than to believe he will do so. |
| Math 1722 Jesus came to die and be raised |
When they came together in Galilee, he said to them, "The Son of Man is going to be betrayed into the hands of men. They will kill him, and on the third day he will be raised to life." And the disciples were filled with grief. They were sad that he would die, but did not yet know why. In the Gospels there are recorded 15 separate occasions when Jesus warned and prophesied to the disciples that had to suffer and die. It was the vital purpose of his coming. There was no other way that sin could be forgiven. See website 'Christ Had to Suffer' (Use back arrow to return here) |
| Math 1724-27 Jesus pays Temple tax |
Peter was asked, "Doesn't your teacher pay the temple tax ?" "Yes, he does."
When Peter came into the house, Jesus was the first to speak. 2What do you think, Simon?" he asked. "From whom do the kings of the earth collect duty and taxes–from their own sons or from others?" Obviously the answer is for others and the sons are exempt. But Jesus told Peter to go and catch a fish, find a coin in its mouth and pay the tax for both of them. He obeys. A novel way of paying taxes! And he avoided a row over why he was exempt. |
| Math 181-9 Who is the greatest? Or who will enter heaven? |
World history is full of people striving to be the greatest ... Even the disciples asked Jesus who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven? But he asks them a more pertinent issue: "I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven." Humility is rare, but is essential for anyone to even enter heaven. Jesus then gives the disciples a warning: "Woe to the world because of the things that cause people to sin! Such things must come, but woe to the man through whom they come!" We all need to take care that pride and selfish ambition do not discolour our character. |
| Math 1810-14 A lost sheep |
Luke records this parable in the context of Pharisees who criticised his friendship with tax-collectors and sinners who are also precious to God. On another occasion, that Matthew records, the context is with children. "See that you do not look down on one of these little ones. For I tell you that their angels in heaven always see the face of my Father in heaven. What do you think? If a man owns a hundred sheep, and one of them wanders away ..." In the same way your Father in heaven is not willing that any of these little ones should be lost. To Jesus, time with children was important. Just as it was in Bethany with Mary, when Martha wanted a different priority. |
| Math 1815-19 Forgive or ?? |
Jesus told the disciples that "If your brother sins against you ..."; then there are three escalating stages. 1. Show him his fault privately. 2. Ditto with two or three witnesses 3. Tell it to the church. And if this fails treat him as a pagan! He did not say 'ignore it', not talk about it or pretend nothing is wrong. |
| Math 1821-35 More on forgiveness |
Peter came to Jesus and asked, "Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother when he sins against me? Up to seven times?" Jesus answered, "I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times." He then tells him a parable about a king who wanted to settle accounts. One servant owed him a huge sum, which he could not repay. He begged for time. And the king not only granted time, but even forgave the whole debt! But then this forgiven servant refused to forgive a fellow servant who owed him a few pence when he pleaded for patience. When the king heard this, he had the wicked servant put in prison. Note that both servants admitted their debt. God will not forgive my sin unless I am first willing to confess it. |
| Math 191-12 Divorce - another test |
Some Pharisees came to him to test him. They asked, "Is it lawful for a man to divorce his wife for any and every reason?" Jesus replied that in marriage a man and his wife become one before God. "Therefore what God has joined together, let man not separate." They then claimed that Moses allowed divorce. Jesus replied, "Moses permitted you to divorce your wives because your hearts were hard. But it was not this way from the beginning. I tell you that anyone who divorces his wife, except for marital unfaithfulness, and marries another woman commits adultery." Clearly Almighty God hates all sin, adultery and divorce. |
| Math 1913-15 Little children |
Several parents brought their young children to Jesus for him to place his hands on them and pray for them. The disciples thought this a waste of time, but Jesus didn't. He said, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these." I expect both parents and children were long-term beneficiaries. |
| Math 1916-30 Wealth often brings sadness |
A rich young man sought eternal life and asked Jesus what good thing must he do. Jesus first establishes the truth that only God is good. Then he tells him to keep the commandments (no murder, adultery, stealing, false witness, and two positives - to honour parents and love neighbours). "All these I have kept," the young man said. "What do I still lack?" Jesus answered, "If you want to be perfect, go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me." When the young man heard this, he went away sad, because he had great wealth. Jesus would have been sad too, but not surprised. He knew well the heart of man, for he told the disciples, "I tell you the truth, it is hard for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven." Hard, but thankfully, by great grace, not impossible. Peter then asked, "We have left everything to follow you! What then will there be for us?" Jesus assured them, "Everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or fields for my sake will receive a hundred times as much and will inherit eternal life." But be careful to remember that however much a man may give, it is only in gratitude. It is nothing compared with what Jesus has done for us, to enable us to be forgiven and receive eternal life. Remember too the testimony of Jesus when he had seen a poor widow, who gave two small copper coins into the Temple treasury. She had given her all. So Jesus said that it was far more than the rich who had only offered a little from their plenty. Lu 211-4 |
| Math 201-16 Pay is not per hour |
For the kingdom of heaven is like a landowner who ... paid all who worked in his vineyard the same no matter how long they had worked. Those who had worked all day complained; but they had agreed their wage at the start. "Or are you envious because I am generous?" Was jealousy and envy the heart of this parable? Jesus summed up with same words as the previous incident: "So the last will be first, and the first will be last." Jesus does often does the unexpected. He rightly turns the world's traditions upside-down. |
| Math 2017-19 Predicts death and resurrection |
See notes on 1722 |
| Math 2020-28 Who is the greatest? |
The mother of James and John asks Jesus that they may sit on each side of him. But she didn't know what she was asking. Jesus then asks the two sons, "Can you drink the cup I am going to drink?" "We can," they answered. Jesus said to them, "You will indeed drink from my cup." Perhaps this dampened their original request! The other disciples were indignant. So Jesus warned all of them to avoid the thirst for authority. "Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave – just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many." Men have always sought power and privilege, but it remains dangerous. Sadly, many Church leaders have lost any humility they may have had, and thus fail to heed this warning. They proudly disregard any advice or correction. |
| Math 2029-34 Two blind men healed |
When leaving Jericho, the large crowd tried to stop two men repeatedly shouting, "Lord, Son of David, have mercy on us!" But Jesus asked them what they wanted him to do for them. "We want our sight." Jesus had compassion on them and touched their eyes. Immediately they received their sight and followed him. The mercy of God can bring restoring sight as well as the forgiveness of sin. Today, many 'Follow' Jesus, but for how long and how consistently? As Jesus had to tell Nicodemus, to enter the Kingdom of God you must be 'born again'. Scripture is silent as to the future life of these two men whose eyes had been physically touched by the Son of God. |
| Math 211-11 Jesus enters Jerusalem |
Preparations had to be made. Not a white horse and a great military parade, but a just one donkey! It was important to fulfill the prophecy, Rejoice greatly, O Daughter of Zion! Shout, Daughter of Jerusalem! See, your king comes to you, righteous and having salvation, gentle and riding on a donkey. Zech 99 The crowd used their cloaks and cut palm branches to spread on the road. They shouted: "Hosanna to the Son of David!" "Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!" "Hosanna in the highest!" Luke records that As he approached Jerusalem and saw the city, he wept over it and said, "If you, even you, had only known on this day what would bring you peace–but now it is hidden from your eyes." He wept because you did not recognize the time of God's coming to you. Lu 1941-44 When the procession entered Jerusalem they asked, "Who is this?" The crowds answered, "This is Jesus, the prophet from Nazareth in Galilee." But he was much more that a prophet. He came to be the Lamb of God, the final sacrificial Lamb that Abraham 'saw'. Gen 228,14 Jn 856 At this time Jesus came, not as King, but as the Saviour and Redeemer which all the centuries of sacrifices promised. The One Isaiah saw and on whom our iniquities would be laid. Is 53. The crucifixion would be a great surprise for the crowd that welcomed him. The world would have to wait over 2,000 years before he comes as King. |
| Math 2112-17 Temple - for prayer or profit? |
The religious rulers needed finance - always more! So they made rules that appeared to be for making religion more pure. Sheep and doves had to be without blemish and only the ones they sold passed their test. And no one could use ordinary money to buy them; they had to use special Temple money. Of course only they could exchange ordinary money for Temple money. Little wonder Jesus was determined to put an end to this disgraceful trade. Single-handed he drove them all out saying: "It is written," he said to them, " 'My house will be called a house of prayer,' but you are making it a 'den of robbers'." The Temple leaders were also indignant that Jesus healed the blind and the lame. And they hated to hear children praising God. So Jesus said, But this must have caused even greater indignation. |
| Math 2118-22 Fig tee withers |
Jesus had spent the night in Bethany and was returning to Jerusalem next morning, when he saw a fig tree. On inspection the tree had leaves, but no fruit. There should have been small, immature green figs, (the first crop that would ripen a few weeks later, in May. The main crop is not usually until July - depends on the variety). In view of the events in the Temple the day before, this incident is largely symbolic. Jesus rightly expected his chosen people to be open, expectant, longing for their Messiah. But they weren't. There was only indignation, hatred and jealousy. No righteous, ripe fruit; and not even any green, immature fruit. The hypocritical Pharisees would never be righteous, believing, trusting. The fig tree withered; as would most of the religious leaders. And 40 years later the Temple would be destroyed by Rome and most of the people would perish, be enslaved or exiled. However, today they are still the 'Chosen people', they have returned to their own land, and a growing number have now repented and believe in 'the One whom they had pierced'. They have seen the fountain of forgiveness opened. Zech 1210 - 131 |
| Math 2123-27 Authority |
Jesus was teaching in the Temple courts when the chief priests and the elders of the people came to him. "By what authority are you doing these things?" Obviously it wasn't by their authority! Jesus replied, "I will also ask you one question. If you answer me, I will tell you by what authority I am doing these things. John's baptism–where did it come from? Was it from heaven, or from men?" This was not a diversion, but very much related. If they would admit John's ministry was from God, then he could tell them that his was too. But they were more interested in power politics than truth. They discussed it among themselves and said, "If we say, 'From heaven,' he will ask, 'Then why didn't you believe him?' But if we say, 'From men'–we are afraid of the people, for they all hold that John was a prophet." So they answered Jesus, "We don't know." What a terrible admission. How do men today respond to the claims of Christ and their personal needs? Does pride and pretense over-ride honesty and truth? Why are so many averse to crying, "O God, please be merciful to me, a sinner." ? Jesus would have loved to tell them about his authority to heal and forgive sin, but their response proved their unwillingness to hear. They saw Jesus only as a most unwelcome threat to their position. This was an opportunity missed. |
| Math 2128 - 2246 3 Parables and the reaction of Pharisees and Sadducees |
After the misusing of the Temple, the withering figtree and his authority questioned, Jesus tells 3 parables - which he intended they should understand! : 1. Two sons. One said he would not obey, but changed his mind and the second who said he would obey, but didn't. Jesus said to them, "I tell you the truth, the tax collectors and the prostitutes are entering the kingdom of God ahead of you. For John came to you to show you the way of righteousness, and you did not believe John, but the tax collectors and the prostitutes did. And even after you saw this, you did not repent.
2. Wicked tenants. Landowner planted a vineyard and went away.
3. Wedding banquet. King prepared wedding banquet for his son and sent out invitations. But they paid no attention, which enraged the king. He then invited any who he could find. They came, though one did not have a wedding garment. He was thrown out. Reaction to these parables:
1. Pharisees. First they laid plans to trap him in his words by asking, "Is it right to pay taxes to Caesar or not?"
2. Sadducees. They told a story about a man who married a wife. He died before they had any children. So in accordance with the law of Moses, the next brother married the widow. He also died. And the same tragedy happened until the last of 7 brothers married the widow. Then she died. Although they didn't believe in the resurrection, they asked Jesus, "Now then, at the resurrection, whose wife will she be of the seven, since all of them were married to her?"
3. Pharisees again. They asked what they thought was a clever question, "Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?" They knew full well that all 10 commandments are equally important. So Jesus summarised them by quoting:
4. Pharisees again. This time Jesus asks the question. |
| Math 231-39 Seven Woes! and a conclusion. |
Jesus taught the crowds the truth about the Pharisees. He told the crowd that they must obey the Law of Moses that they preached, but not to follow what they did. a) They do nothing to lighten the loads people carry b) They do everything to be seen and make a good impression c) They delight in sitting in the best synagogue seats and being called 'Rabbi'. You are not to call anyone 'Father' or 'Rabbi' (as the RC's do). The greatest among you will be your servant. For whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.
The repeated warnings "Woe to you ... Pharisees, you hypocrites! ..." are justified and severe. 1. You shut the kingdom of heaven in men's faces. You yourselves do not enter, nor will you let those enter who are trying to. 2. You travel over land and sea to win a single convert, and when he becomes one, you make him twice as much a son of hell as you are. 3. You say, 'If anyone swears by the temple, it means nothing; but if anyone swears by the gold of the temple, he is bound by his oath.' You blind fools! Which is greater: the gold, or the temple that makes the gold sacred? ... 4. You give a tenth of your spices–mint, dill and cummin. But you have neglected the more important matters of the law–justice, mercy and faithfulness. You should have practised the latter, without neglecting the former. ... 5. You clean the outside of the cup and dish, but inside they are full of greed and self-indulgence. Blind Pharisee! First clean the inside of the cup and dish, and then the outside also will be clean. 6. You are like whitewashed tombs, which look beautiful on the outside but on the inside are full of dead men's bones and everything unclean. In the same way, on the outside you appear to people as righteous but on the inside you are full of hypocrisy and wickedness. 7. You build tombs for the prophets and decorate the graves of the righteous. And you say, 'If we had lived in the days of our forefathers, we would not have taken part with them in shedding the blood of the prophets.' So you testify against yourselves that you are the descendants of those who murdered the prophets. ...
Conclusion? |
| Math 241-35 End of the Age Beware of false prophets |
The disciples were looking with wonder at the Temple building. They were surprised when Jesus told them, "I tell you the truth, not one stone here will be left on another; every one will be thrown down." Later they ask him privately, "Tell us when will this happen, and what will be the sign of your coming and of the end of the age?" Many have continued to ask this question, and have not been satisfied with the answer Jesus gave. They have added, subtracted, or distorted this passage, and especially the Revelation that Jesus later gave to John. Today man thinks he can save the planet and escape the declared tribulation, which is the judgment of Almighty God. This is extreme arrogance. Let us hear the answer Jesus gave. "Watch out that no one deceives you." 244 "Many false prophets will appear and deceive many people." 2411 "For false Christs and false prophets will appear and perform great signs and miracles to deceive even the elect." 2424 The principal deception is the false teaching that the victorious church will bring revival before Christ returns. They deny that the church will suffer extreme persecution (as prophesied in Dan 721,25 and 823-25) and either the Great Tribulation will not happen or they will escape it by being raptured. It is similar to 2,000 years ago when the Jews were falsely expecting a Messiah King, but Christ came exactly as prophesied, as the 'Suffering Servant' and Redeemer. Christ will return to defeat the Beast that will attack Israel at the end of the 7 year Tribulation. Rev 19. Jesus told the disciples that the sign of the end of the age would be: For then there will be great distress, unequalled from the beginning of the world until now–and never to be equalled again. If those days had not been cut short, no one would survive, but for the sake of the elect those days will be shortened. 421 He warned them (and us) that false Christs would arise and perform great signs. There are 3 significant signs that today reveal that the end is near. 1. After 2,000 years the Jews have retuned to their promised land of Israel. 2. The book of Revelation is largely rejected or not understood. 3. National wickedness has increased in the supposedly Christian West. Legalised abortion, Evolution Theory taught as truth, homosexuality legalised. |
| Math 2436-51 Day and hour unknown |
Although many have predicted when the end shall be, Jesus said clearly "No one knows about that day or hour, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father." He continued that it will be like in the days of Noah. Noah was 120 years building the Ark. So when he was nearly finished the end was obviously near; though no one heeded the warning. Methuselah (= in the day that I die it shall happen) had died! The flood came that same year. Revelation reveals the events of the last 7 years so although we do not know the exact day or hour, God is warning us, as he did the unresponsive men in Noah's day. "Therefore keep watch ... So you also must be ready ..." |
| Math 2445 - 2546> Four 'be ready' stories |
The ever practical Jesus then told his disciples four stories about how we must remain ready, when it seems that the Master has been delayed. 1. Wicked servants. 2445-51 They abuse their position and their fellow servants, eating and drinking. They had ideas of grandeur and enjoyed worldliness and sinful living.
2. Five wise and five foolish virgins. 251-13
3. Investment of Talents. 2514-30
4. Activity of Sheep and Goats. 2531-46
So you also must be ready, |
| Math 261-5 Two days time |
"As you know, the Passover is two days away–and the Son of Man will be handed over to be crucified." They knew Passover was just two days away; but were probably not so sure about Jesus being crucified so quickly. However, this was to be the day when man's salvation was to be secured. Jesus certainly knew! The religious leaders had a different plan. "Not during the feast ..." they said. But no mere man can ever thwart what Almighty God has planned. Note that Jn 1828 and 1914, 31 reveals that the trial of Jesus was early in the morning of the day of Preparation. That afternoon was the time when all the Passover lambs were slain. And it was at this very moment when Jesus, the Lamb of God, was crucified. The 'last Supper' on the evening before, when the Essenes celebrated their separate Passover - and was the meal referred to in Math 2617-19 |
| Math 266-13 Jesus anointed |
This incident was recorded in all four gospels. A woman poured a whole jar of expensive perfume on Jesus. All the disciples thought this was an extravagant expression and said, "Why this waste?" Not for the first time Jesus thought very differently and reveals why. She has done a beautiful thing to me. ... When she poured this perfume on my body, she did it to prepare me for burial. No doubt she did this in gratitude for God's forgiveness. (See Lu 747,48 Jesus assured her that her many sins were forgiven.) But in the plan of God, Jesus said, "she did it to prepare me for burial." This unnamed woman is recorded as doing a 'beautiful thing', not wasteful; so much so that "wherever this gospel is preached throughout the world, what she has done will also be told, in memory of her." This is God's measure of how precious was her action that day. The motives of men and women are often misunderstood and may seem illogical. Here, God who knows all, wanted his appreciation to be known by all the world. |
| Math 2614-16 A contrast |
In the above incident, the disciples accepted the correction; but Judas did not. He went to the chief priests and asked, "What are you willing to give me if I hand him over to you?" (John records that Judas, who was treasurer, was also a thief.) They agreed on just thirty silver coins - the price of a slave! (Exd 2132 Zech 1112-16) It is hard to think of a greater contrast than that between the woman and Judas. |
| Math 2617-30 Last Supper |
Preparations for Passover. Jesus tells disciples to "Go into the city to a certain man and tell him, 'The Teacher says: My appointed time is near. I am going to celebrate the Passover with my disciples at your house.' " The 'certain man' was probably an Essene carrying a pitcher of water. (Lu 2210)
But there was a problem. "One of you will betray me." Judas had been given every opportunity and encouragement to repent. But he rejected them all. All the disciples were struggling. They questioned who the traitor might be. Jesus replied, "The one who has dipped his hand into the bowl with me will betray me. The Son of Man will go just as it is written about him. But woe to that man who betrays the Son of Man! It would be better for him if he had not been born." Judas even pretended it wasn't him saying, "Surely not I, Rabbi?" Jesus answered, "Yes, it is you." He then left to complete his miserable task. Then Jesus took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to his disciples, saying, "Take and eat; this is my body." He had a God ordained task to complete in the next 20 hours. A task he fulfilled and never flinched from. His body would be broken on a cross. Then he took the cup, gave thanks and offered it to them, saying, "Drink from it, all of you. This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins. I tell you, I will not drink of this fruit of the vine from now on until that day when I drink it anew with you in my Father's kingdom." The Lord of glory invites us to drink from this same cup and thereby know that he has forgiven all our sin. This 'blood' covenant is God's guarantee to all who believe that a perfect sacrifice is the only way for us sinners to gain the propitiation of God and that Christ crucified is the only perfect sacrifice. His blood was not just a few drops, but was 'poured out' to ensure the work was complete. |
| Math 2631-46 Gethsemane Peter / Disciples would fail But Jesus would not |
Jesus knew the significance of the Scripture, 'I will strike the shepherd, and the sheep of the flock will be scattered.' Therefore he told the 11 disciples that they would all fall away - tonight! Peter, and all the others denied that they would ever fall away. So Jesus tells them again, "I tell you the truth, this very night, before the rooster crows, you will disown me three times." Even Peter did not realise his weakness; but later he would become strong.
After their Passover supper they went to Gethsemane. He told them he was going to pray and invited Peter, James and John to join him. "My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death. Stay here and keep watch with me." Going a little farther, he fell with his face to the ground and prayed, "My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will." |
| Math 2647-56 Jesus arrested |
Judas, the betrayer led the men armed with swords and clubs - no doubt he thought he was in command of the situation and was about to secure a victory. But it was Almighty God who was in complete control. Judas had given them a sign, saying, "The one I will kiss is the man; seize him." Did he think Jesus was going to put on some disguise? Jesus was not captured because he could not escape, but because he chose to be. If one angel could kill 185,000 in a single night (2 Kgs 1935), think what 12 legions, with 6,000 in each and commanded by the Son of God, could do? Why did he allow this unjust arrest to happen? Because "It must be so", the agreed plan of God must be completed, the writings of the prophets must be fulfilled. Jesus had told them what to write centuries earlier! He had also made the law that there was no other way for our sin to be forgiven. All the disciples deserted Jesus and fled - just as he said they would. |
| Math 2657-68 Jesus before Sanhedrin |
The religious leaders were looking for false evidence against Jesus so that they could put him to death. But they did not find any, though many false witnesses came forward. Why? They were unable to see that the man they dragged before them was the Son of God, the God they thought they worshipped. Why so blind? Jealous of his healing ministry and popularity with the public. Offended by the wisdom of his teaching and the answers to their questions. He revealed their hypocrisy. He wasn't 'one of them'. He was good and righteous, they were not. Pride - they would have to admit that they and their teaching was wrong. When falsehood is popular or profitable many will leave truth to perish. In this mock trial two witnesses were finally found who agreed that Jesus had said. 'I am able to destroy the temple of God and rebuild it in three days.' And it was correct. See Jn 219 But this claim was not a chargeable offence; so Jesus remained silent. Exasperated, the High Priest said to him, "I charge you under oath by the living God: Tell us if you are the Christ, the Son of God." On this charge Jesus was obliged, under law, to answer. So he did. "Yes, it is as you say," Jesus replied. "But I say to all of you: In the future you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Mighty One and coming on the clouds of heaven." Caiaphas did not need to take a vote; he just exclaimed that Jesus was guilty of blasphemy. And the Sanhedrin agreed, "He is worthy of death." But they were not allowed under Roman law to enforce this verdict. So they mocked Jesus, spat on his face and struck him. Such behaviour by wicked men is not unusual; but this prisoner was the Son of God! |
| Math 2669-75 Peter disowns Jesus |
This is one short passage that Peter wishes didn't have to be written. But it happened. It ends with He went outside and wept bitterly. It all began with the mild accusation of a servant girl. Then a 2nd accusation by another servant girl. The 3rd accusation was on account of his Galilean accent. Each time his response was "I don't know the man!" Then there was a sound that only Peter heard loud and clear - a rooster crowed. A few days later at dawn by lake Galilee, Jesus gave Peter the opportunity to say three times that he loved him and be certain that Jesus had forgiven his brief folly. (Jn 2115-19) |
| Math 271-10 Judas hangs himself |
When Judas ... saw that Jesus was condemned, he was seized with remorse and returned the thirty silver coins. The Sanhedrin were not interested, so Judas just threw the money into the Temple and left. Then he went away and hanged himself. The Chief priests picked up the coins and bought the potter's field as a burial place for foreigners. |
| Math 2711-26 Jesus, Pilate and the local 'rent a mob' crowd |
Pilate asked him, "Are you the king of the Jews?" "Yes, it is as you say." His answer was clear and definite, but he remained silent when asked about the charges the Sanhedrin had brought, which he knew was only out of envy. Pilate offered to release Jesus but the crowd chose Barabbas. He should not have offered them a choice. He then made another foolish decision; he asked them what he should do with Jesus, whom he knew was innocent. Prompted by the Sanhedrin, the crowd repeated bayed, "Crucify him! ... Crucify him!" Pilate then washed his hands saying, "I am innocent of this man's blood." Pathetic. How could that could absolve his gross injustice to the King of the Jews?. Without realising what they were saying, the crowd then said, "Let his blood be on us and on our children!" The Jews would have to suffer 2,000 years of exile! To compound the injustice and in hope of enjoying a little rare Jewish popularity, Pilate then had Jesus flogged, and handed him over to be crucified. It was certainly not his 'finest hour'. Perhaps he never had even one hour. (After 10 years in office, he was recalled to Rome in 36 AD, after suppressing a violent Samaritan movement at Mt Gerizim. Nothing more is known.) |
| Math 2727-32 At the Praetorium |
The Roman soldiers enjoyed an arrogant mocking of Almighty God, think they were the ones who were superior. They dressed Jesus in a scarlet robe and put a crown of thorns on his head. They taunted him, spat on him and repeatedly beat him. Jesus did not retaliate or defend himself. Then they led him away to crucify him. Such was the brutality of the soldiers, they had to make Simon from Cyrene carry the cross for Jesus to Golgotha. |
| Math 2733-55 Crucifixion |
Jesus refuses wine mixed with gall that might reduce the pain. The soldiers cast lots for his clothes. (Crucified naked). The written charge - "Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews" Now that is a crime that is really worthy of death! Many scornfully hurled insults - not knowing who he was, or why he came.
Darkness from 6th to 9th hour (noon until 3pm) At that moment (the 9th hour) the curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom. The earth shook and the rocks split. The tombs broke open and the bodies of many holy people who had died were raised to life. The darkness lifted and the sun shone again. At that moment the required Redemption price was paid in full. The gates of the kingdom of heaven were opened to all believers. Eternal life for sinful, rebellious men was now made possible. The whole purpose of all God's glorious creation was now realised. But remember, this is not the last time that the earth will be shaken. "Once more I will shake not only the earth but also the heavens." The words "once more" indicate the removing of what can be shaken–that is, created things–so that what cannot be shaken may remain." Heb 1226,27 The events of that 'historic'' afternoon even terrified' a Roman centurion, who came to a correct conclusion, "Surely he was the Son of God!"
Many women were there, watching from a distance. Including four Mary's! |
| Math 2757-66 The Garden Tomb |
One brave Sanhedrin member, Joseph, went to Pilate to request the body of Jesus. With due honour he wrapped it in clean linen and placed it in his own rock-hewn tomb and rolled a large stone to secure it. The chief priests also went to Pilate requesting a Roman guard so no one could steal the body and claim he had risen from the dead. Pilate answered. "Go, make the tomb as secure as you know how." So they went and made the tomb secure by putting a seal on the stone and posting the guard. Did they really think that a few men could stop the Son of God being raised from the dead, as he had promised?! Did they think that he who spoke the whole creation into being could be stopped from leaving the tomb by a stone?! |
| Math 281-10 Risen!! |
Life is full of surprises. Three days ago they had not expected Jesus to be arrested and crucified in less than 12 hours. Now there was a violent earthquake, for an angel of the Lord came down from heaven! He had rolled back the stone and sat on it. That wasn't the end of the surprises. The angel told them "Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; he has risen, just as he said." In this practical situation how were their hearts and minds? Then as they were going to tell the disciples what had happened, suddenly Jesus met them."Greetings," he said. They came to him, clasped his feet and worshipped him. Then Jesus said to them, "Do not be afraid. Go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee; there they will see me." What a morning. At least they had been told what to do next. |
| Math 2811-15 The Guards were bribed |
The guards went to the chief priests and told them what had happened. It didn't take them long to devise a plan, the base of which was money. They were bribed to say that the disciples came during the night and stole him away while we were asleep.' If this report gets to the governor, we will satisfy him and keep you out of trouble. The soldiers agreed and many Jews believed their false story. |
| Math 2816-20 Disciples commissioned |
The 11 disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. He said to them, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me." This is not only true, but is richly deserved. Jesus had completed the task he was given for his first coming. He had made it possible for sinners to be forgiven and for them to be made righteous and thus enter heaven. Viewing the last 2,000 years of world history, it is clear that Jesus has chosen not to delay exerting this authority. The day is coming soon when he will return to this earth as King of kings and establish his glorious kingdom. To which we say, "Please come quickly!" This gracious delay is so that he can make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. Jesus had always planned to include the Gentiles. He told the apostles, Jerusalem will be trampled underfoot by the Gentiles, until the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled. Lu 2124 Or as Paul wrote, I do not want you to be unaware of this mystery, brothers: a partial hardening has come upon Israel, until the fullness of the Gentiles has come in. And in this way all Israel will be saved. Ro 1125,26 Currently we see Jerusalem now as the capital of Israel, but the Muslim Gentiles have authority over the Temple Mount; so the times of the Gentiles are not quite ended yet. We still live in a day of opportunity and have the responsibility to complete the commission Jesus gave to his Disciples. |
Mark [Contents]
Probably written by John Mark, who worked with Paul, Barnabus and Peter, in Rome ~ 67AD. The intended recipient was probably Gentile Rome. No references to Jewish law, few OT quotes or Jewish customs explained. It highlights actions rather than words, miracles rather than theology. There are only 3 events recorded that are unique to Mark, each of the other Gospels have about 30. It is the most chronological of the Gospels.
| Mk 11 Book title and ministry goal |
The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God. Throughout, he rightly remains the centre of this book. |
| Mk 12-8 John Baptist |
“Behold, I send my messenger before your face, who will prepare your way.” This prophecy by Isaiah was fulfilled by John Baptist, who had appeared. And in doing so Prepared the way of the Lord. How? He proclaimed a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. Mark begins with this basic, essential first step of the Christian life. Bunyan in The Pilgrim’s Progress started here. Christian realised he was living in the City of Destruction and he had a great burden on his back. His journey began with the need to be relieved of the burden of sin. Many today are largely unaware of the need for God’s forgiveness and the Cross. The more popular message is ‘join the church and follow Jesus’. John’s disciples were baptised by him in the river Jordan, confessing their sins. This is how he prepared the way of the Lord to make his paths straight. Few Christian testimonies include the relief of sins forgiven. John introduced them to Jesus who would baptise them with the Holy Spirit. Jn 129 |
| Mk 19-11 Baptism of Jesus |
Jesus came to John to be baptised - but not for repentance! John saw the heavens being torn open and the Spirit descending on him like a dove. And he heard a voice came from heaven, “You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased.” John knew who Jesus was, and why he came. |
| Mk 112,13 Jesus tempted in desert |
The Spirit immediately drove him out into the wilderness. And he was in the wilderness forty days, being tempted by Satan. And he was with the wild animals, and the angels were ministering to him. This was a lengthy and extreme event: Jesus was ‘driven’ into the desert for ‘40 days’. The ‘wild animals’ indicate that it was a highly hostile experience. Satan revealed his cunning but was overthrown by the Son of God who appreciated the ‘angels’ who ministered to him after the battle. See details in Matthew and Luke. |
| Mk 114,15 Jesus begins ministry |
A new chapter begins. John had completed his work and was now in prison. Down the centuries God had sent a series of prophets; now the time is fulfilled for the Son of God to begin proclaiming the gospel of God. How did Jesus begin? What was his opening theme? “The kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel.” God’s kingdom was now being opened and he tells us what we need to do - repent- and later he would reveal what only he had to do - be crucified for our sin - what we need to believe. The invitation to enter the kingdom is ‘good news’, very good! |
| Mk 116-20 Calls first disciples |
Jesus walked along the shore in Galilee. He saw Simon and Andrew the brother of Simon casting a net into the sea. He called them saying, “Follow me, and I will make you become fishers of men.” They immediately came ashore and followed him. Then he called James and John, who were mending their nets. They also followed Jesus. This was not the first time Simon and Andrew had met Jesus. They first met when John the Baptist had told Andrew and another of his disciples, “Behold, the Lamb of God.” They followed Jesus to where he was staying and talked with him that evening. Andrew then went and brought his brother Peter to Jesus. Next day in Galilee Jesus found Philip and called him to follow. And then Philip went to find his friend Nathanael (Bartholomew) and brought him to meet Jesus. (Jn 129-51) |
| Mk 121-39 Teaching and healing With authority |
And they went into Capernaum, and immediately on the Sabbath he entered the synagogue and was teaching. Mark uses the word ‘immediately 35 times in his action packed gospel. The people of Capernaum were astonished at the authority of his teaching. There was no uncertainty, no vague possibilities, “maybe this or maybe that”. The Son of God knew the truth and he knew the whole plan and purpose of God for his creation. In the synagogue there was a man who possessed by a demon. He cried out, “What have you to do with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are—the Holy One of God.” Jesus was not fazed by this interruption. He just rebuked the unclean spirit and told him to leave. It had no option but to obey, noisily! The people were even more amazed at this practical authority of Jesus. But they had not yet grasped who Jesus was or the significance of his teaching. Jesus then went to Simon and Andrew’s home where Simon’s mother=in-law had a fever. Jesus took her by the hand and lifted her up, and the fever left her, and she began to serve them. That evening at sundown (after Sabbath) the whole city was gathered together at the door. And he healed many who were sick with various diseases, and cast out many demons. And he would not permit the demons to speak. Although Jesus had the power and compassion for this work, the notoriety was a distraction to his prime ministry. So rising very early in the morning, while it was still dark, he departed and went out to a desolate place, and there he prayed. When Simon found him he told them they needed to go to the other towns and preach there. |
| Mk 140-45 Leper healed |
A leper came imploring him, “If you will, you can make me clean.” Moved with pity, he stretched out his hand and touched him and said to him, “I will; be clean.” And immediately the leprosy left him. Jesus told him not to tell anyone, but go to the priests with an offering. But he disobeyed, so Jesus had to preach in desolate places. |
| Mk 21-12 Paralytic forgiven and healed |
Jesus went back to Capernaum and so many gathered round him that 4 men had to open the roof and lower a paralytic. Surprisingly, the first thing Jesus did was to say,“Son, your sins are forgiven.” Some Scribes said, “He is blaspheming! Who can forgive sins but God alone?” So Jesus asked them which was easier, to tell him his sin was forgiven or to heal him? But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins”—he said to the paralytic— “I say to you, rise, pick up your bed, and go home.” And he rose and immediately picked up his bed and went out. All were amazed, the paralytic was both forgiven and healed. And thereby Jesus revealed who he was and that the purpose of his ministry was the forgiveness of sinful men. But there is no indication that any in the crowd realised this at the time. |
| Mk 213-17 God’s choice criticised |
As Jesus passed by a tax booth he said to Levi (Matthew), “Follow me.” He obeyed. We cannot speculate on his heart that enabled him to leave his old life so readily. Neither can we know why Jesus called him. Tax collectors were universally unpopular and rich. The event took place ‘beside the sea’ near Capernaum. Levi invited Jesus to a ‘great banquet’ at his house with a large number of other tax collectors. The Pharisees were quick to criticise Jesus for eating with such sinful people, to which he replied, “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. I came not to call the righteous, but sinners ‘to repentance’.” (Details in ‘ ’ from Lu 527-32). Unlike Levi, the Pharisees thought they were already righteous! This would have pained the heart of the Saviour. But he would have delighted in Levi whose longing was for the Lord God. As pants the hart for cooling streams When heated in the chase, So longs my soul, O God, for Thee, And Thy refreshing grace.
Why restless, why cast down, my soul? |
| Mk 218-22 When to fast |
The people came to Jesus with a quite reasonable question: “Why do John's disciples and the disciples of the Pharisees fast, but your disciples do not fast?” Jesus answered them in a very practical and Jewish way: “Can the wedding guests fast while the bridegroom is with them? As long as they have the bridegroom with them, they cannot fast.” The days will come when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast in that day.” That was a good straightforward analogy, though they might have wondered about why he should call himself the Bridegroom and why he was going away so soon. Then he adds another pair of parables about repairing clothes and how to store wine. Both revealed that there was a time to fast and a time to eat; and the difference between the times was whether the Son of God was with them or the day when they seemed to be alone. |
| Mk 223-28 On the Sabbath |
On one Sabbath Jesus was walking with his disciples through some cornfields. The disciples began to pluck heads of grain. Some Pharisees complained to him that the disciples were doing what is not lawful on the Sabbath. The ‘Oral Law’ written by men defined it as work; but God’s command omitted this detail. Jesus replied by telling that David ate the bread of the Presence kept for the priests, and they didn’t criticise David. Then he told them: “The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath. So the Son of Man is lord even of the Sabbath.” At the same incident Matthew adds, “If you had known what these words mean, ‘I desire mercy, not sacrifice’, you would not have condemned the innocent.” Math 127 The Pharisees play a large part in each of the Gospels. With the exception of Nicodemus, Joseph and Gamaliel, they never expressed any longing for the Lord, never any need to repent, and never any gratitude for God’s forgiveness. But they were always quick to criticise the Son of God who came to save. Sad! |
| Mk 31-6 Sabbath healing |
One Sabbath a man with a withered hand was present, as were Pharisees who were watching to see if Jesus would heal him. So Jesus asked them, “Is it lawful on the Sabbath to do good or to do harm, to save life or to kill?” They were silent. Jesus looked at them with anger, grieved at their hardness of heart, and said to the man, “Stretch out your hand.” No one could say that either Jesus or the man had done any work! But his hand was healed. So the Pharisees were made to look somewhat foolish and immediately started to plan how they could kill Jesus. Their hearts were not only hard, but also proud. There were at least 6 occasions in the gospels where Jesus was criticised for healing or ‘working’ on the Sabbath. (See website ‘Sabbath Incidents’) |
| Mk 37-20 Problem of miracles! |
So many people were healed and delivered from their evil spirits that Jesus had to withdraw and ask for a boat to be ready to relieve him from the crush. He went up the mountain and called for the 12 he had chosen to come, and he appointed them as Apostles. He then went home and the crowd still followed him. His brothers said “He is out of his mind”. |
| Mk 322-30 Blasphemy |
The Scribes from Jerusalem said “He is possessed by Beelzebul.” So Jesus told them, “How can Satan cast out Satan? If a kingdom is divided against itself, that kingdom cannot stand.” Then he defined blasphemy and its consequences. “Truly, I say to you, all sins will be forgiven the children of man, and whatever blasphemies they utter, but whoever blasphemes against the Holy Spirit never has forgiveness, but is guilty of an eternal sin”— for they were saying, “He has an unclean spirit.” |
| Mk 331-35 His family |
When his family came they could not get through the crowd. When they told Jesus that they were seeking him, he said, “Who are my mother and my brothers? ... whoever does the will of God, he is my brother and sister and mother.” It must have been difficult even for Jesus to keep the best priorities. |
| Mk 41-20 Why parables? |
A good way to address a crowd is to sit in an offshore boat with the crowd on the seashore. Not having a natural amphitheatre, that is what Jesus did. And he told them a simple farming story about how he sowed his seed. But what did it mean and why did he tell them such a simple story? Even the 12 did not know. So he told them. And it was NOT to make a story easy to understand and remember! “To you has been given the secret of the kingdom of God, but for those outside everything is in parables, so that they may indeed see but not perceive, and may indeed hear but not understand, lest they should turn and be forgiven.” The kingdom of God is secret. As Jesus told Nicodemus it can only be seen by those who are ‘born again’. Jn 3 And to be ‘born again’ or ‘to have ears to hear’ a man must repent and believe in Christ the Redeemer. There is no other way to ‘be forgiven’. Many chose to follow Jesus and try to live a good life; but this is not possible. No man can be saved by good works. This would render the sacrifice of Jesus as unnecessary. “Without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness of sin.” Heb 922 Those who hear know full well that the seed, the word of God often falls on ground that does not bring forth a harvest. God has to prepare my heart and make it good ground by revealing the truth of his Word, i.e. what Christ came to do for us. 1,000's know the parables of the sower or about the two who built their house one on sand and the other on rock. But how many of these know the secret of the kingdom of God? How many have ‘turned’ and know the relief of God’s forgiveness? How many know the truth of why Jesus had to come and be crucified and thereby bring the propitiation of our sin? How many realise that Satan loves nothing more than dulling the word of God that has been sown? |
| Mk 421-34 Three parables |
1. A lamp is put on a stand, not under a basket. So, “Pay attention to what you hear ... for to the one who has, more will be given, and from the one who has not, even what he has will be taken away.” In these days with so much information being available on the internet we need to be careful and discerning what we hear/see. The media usually has a particular agenda that is rarely righteous. Its reporting contains more opinions that facts; and the facts its does given are often ‘selected’. 2. A farmer sows seed in the ground and it produces by itself first the blade, then the ear, then the full grain in the ear. Take care what seed is sown in your own heart. What is sown will determine the harvest, and the harvest will determine our eternal destiny. May the seed be the truth of God’s Word. 3. Mustard seed is small, but becomes a tree. “Great oaks from little acorns grow.” Likewise the kingdom of God that grows in a man. It begins with just a simple word or a seemingly insignificant event but is a God-chosen seed that changes a man’s eternal life.
Jesus did not speak to them without a parable, but privately to his own disciples he explained everything. And thankfully he still reveals his truth to us. |
| Mk 435-41 The wind is obedient! |
One evening Jesus asked the ‘fishermen’ apostles to take him across Galilee. No doubt he was tired with continuous ministry. But as they were crossing a great storm arose. Jesus was asleep. The boat was in danger and so were the apostles! They awakened Jesus, who rebuked the wind and the sea. And there was a great calm.
Then he said to them, “Why are you so afraid?” And they said to each other, “Who then is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?” They still did not really know that Jesus was much more than a powerful teacher / healer; he was the Son of God, the Designer and Creator of all the earth with its amazing variety of life, and all the stars that become visible in the night. Sadly today proud man denies this glorious truth and teaches that it all “just happened by chance”. Ridiculous!! |
| Mk 51-20 Demons also obedient |
When they arrived at the other side of Galilee they met a man who was completely possessed by an unclean spirit who broke any chains that were used to try and control him. He knew that Jesus was the Son of the most high God. Jesus commanded him to leave. And asked his name - ‘Legion, for we are many’. Then he begged to be allowed to enter a herd of nearby pigs. The herd of about 2,000 rushed down the bank and were drowned in the sea. Was it one demon per pig? The herdsmen were afraid and asked Jesus to leave. The man who had been delivered asked to go with Jesus. He replied, “Go home to your friends and tell them how much the Lord has done for you, and how he has had mercy on you.” The man, now in his right mind did what Jesus instructed and everyone marveled. |
| Mk 521-43 A Daughter raised and A Woman healed |
Jesus was always at the right place at the right time. And now he had to return across the lake. There were two more important ‘cases’ to minister to. Jairus, one of the synagogue rulers, had a daughter who was at the point of death. He came and implored Jesus to come and lay his hands on her. He went, but it was slow going as there were so many people round him. Among the many there was a woman who suffered from a blood discharge for 12 years. No one could help her. Among the crowd it was easy for her to just touch the hem of Jesus’ garment and not have to explain everything publicly. Immediately the flow of blood dried up. But Jesus stopped and asked who among the crowd had ‘touched him’. She confessed her story and her healing and heard Him tell her, “Daughter, your faith has made you well; go in peace ...” But the delay had caused a problem. News came that the daughter of Jairus had died! Jesus did not give up his mission. He simply told Jairus, “Do not fear, only believe.” When they arrived the house was in a great commotion, he told them, “The child is not dead but sleeping.” They laughed at him. Then he put them all outside except the parents and Peter, James and John, went in and taking the girl’s hand he said to her, “Talitha Cumi.” (= Little girl, I say to you, arise.”) Immediately she got up and started walking. Such problems disappear when in the hands of the Son of God. A really good day’s work! |
| Mk 61-6 Preaching in Nazareth |
Jesus went to Nazareth and preached in the synagogue on the Sabbath. Seeing him only as the son of Mary, they were amazed, puzzled by his wisdom and his power to work miracles. Jesus marvelled because of their unbelief, saying, “A prophet is not without honour, except in his hometown.” In Lu 414-30 Jesus preached in the synagogue at Nazareth and they tried to throw him over the cliff. It is unlikely that he went back and was invited to preach. It seems likely that both gospels record the same visit. |
| Mk 67-13 12 Apostles sent out |
Jesus sent them out in pairs having given them authority over unclean spirits and without any provisions, only a staff. So they went out and proclaimed that people should repent. They also healed and cast out demons. |
| Mk 614-29 John Baptist beheaded |
Herod heard about the ministry of Jesus. Some said he was Elijah or one of the prophets, others that he was John Baptist raised from the dead. Herod thought the latter. Mark uses this opportunity to tell how Herod had beheaded John as a reward for his daughter’s seductive dancing. Though it was his wife who instructed her to ask for John’s head, because John had preached it was not lawful for Herod to marry his brother’s wife. A story that involves sex and drink will almost always end in tears, especially when it also includes making rash promises. |
| Mk 610-46 Jesus feeds 5,000 |
When the 12 apostles returned, Jesus led them away to be rest for a while. They went to a desolate place by boat, the people saw them go and followed on foot. Jesus had compassion on them because they were like sheep without a shepherd. So he taught them many things until evening. His disciples suggested that he should send them home as they had nothing to eat. But Jesus answered, “You give them something to eat.” Having found that they only had 5 loaves and 2 fish, he told the people to sit down in groups. He blessed the food and gave it to the disciples to feed the crowd of 5,000 men plus women and children They all ate and were satisfied. And they took up twelve baskets full of broken pieces and of the fish. In John’s account he tells us that when the crowd realised the miracle, they wanted to make Jesus king. (Jn 615) But immediately he told the disciples to get into the boat and return to Bethsaida. He then dismissed the crowd and went up the mountain to pray. It was not yet the time for Jesus to exercise kingship - that would be at least 2,000 years later! First he had to lay down his life to be our Redeemer. |
| Mk 647-52 Jesus walks on water |
The disciples obeyed Jesus and had rowed over 3 miles back to Gennesaret when the wind became strong. Then they suddenly saw Jesus walking on the water, coming towards them. He told them not to be frightened and got into the boat. Very soon they reached the shore they were aiming for. Mark omits how Peter walked on the water to meet Jesus, and needed help. |
| Mk 653-56 Many healed |
As soon as Jesus arrived on shore the word immediately went round and they brought all their sick to be healed. They laid the sick in the marketplaces and implored him that they might touch even the fringe of his garment. And as many as touched it were made well. Maybe they remembered how the woman with the issue of blood touched the hem of his garment and was healed. 526 The Jews were commanded to wear a tassel of blue at each corner of their garments so that they remembered the commands of the Lord God. Num 1537-41 |
| Mk 71-23 Critical Pharisees |
Some Pharisees came down from Jerusalem. As usual they were quick to find something they could criticise. This time it was the disciples who ate food without first washing their hands, which was the tradition of the elders. Jesus made a forthright response: “Well did Isaiah prophesy of you hypocrites, as it is written, ‘This people honours me with their lips, but their heart is far from me; in vain do they worship me, teaching as doctrines the commandments of men’.” (Is 2913) Then he gave them an example. One of God’s commandment instructs a man to honour his father and his mother. But you teach that if you give to the Temple it is ‘Corban’, and then you don’t have to do anything for your parents. Then Jesus addressed the people, “Hear me and understand: There is nothing outside a person that by going into him can defile him, but the things that come out of a person are what defile him.” ... What comes out of a person is what defiles him. ... for out of him come evil thoughts immorality, theft, murder, adultery, coveting, wickedness, deceit, sensuality, envy, slander, pride, foolishness. All these evil things come from within, and they defile a person.” With a list like this, none of them would be anywhere near guiltless. Clearly the scribes and Pharisees were way adrift in their criticism; for it was they, not the disciples, who were defiled. Mark makes no comment as to their reaction; but what Jesus taught would certainly not have pleased them. |
| Mk 724-30 A foreign woman |
Father gave his Son an unexpected task - go to the region of Tyre. He went. He entered a house and did not want anyone to know. But they soon found out and a Syrophoenician woman came pleading for her daughter who had an unclean spirit. Jesus said to the Gentile lady: “Let the children be fed first, for it is not right to take the children's bread and throw it to the dogs.” her response to this apparently harsh comment was an absolute classic. One that has had world renown ever since. “Yes, Lord; yet even the dogs under the table eat the children's crumbs.” Jesus marvelled and was glad to acknowledge it “For this statement you may go your way; the demon has left your daughter.” And she went home and found the child lying in bed and the demon gone. To deliver the woman’s daughter was the sole reason he went to Tyre. It is pure speculation, but I suspect Jesus enjoyed recounting this story many times. |
| Mk 731-37 Dumb and deaf man healed |
Jesus returned to the Decapolis (SE Galilee) and they brought to him a man who was deaf and had a speech impediment. Taking him aside from the crowd privately, he put his fingers into his ears, and after spitting touched his tongue. And looking up to heaven, he sighed and said to him, “Ephphatha,” that is, “Be opened.” He was healed completely. Jesus charged them to tell no one, but they did not obey him. |
| Mk 81-10 Jesus feeds 4,000 |
After Jesus had ministered to a great crowd he said, “I have compassion on the crowd, because they have been with me now three days and have nothing to eat.” His disciples asked, “How can one feed these people with bread here in this desolate place?” It seems that they had forgotten the earlier feeding of 5,000. But Jesus took 7 loaves that they still had in that desolate place, gave thanks and fed the 4,000 with fresh bread. Afterwards they picked up 7 baskets of broken pieces. Then he sent them away. |
| Mk 811-13 Demand for signs |
Pharisees came to Jesus and argued with him. Note they did not ask questions or even discuss. They demanded a sign from heaven. All the miracles of healing and deliverance were not sufficient and feeding multitudes was counted as ‘hearsay’. Jesus asked the pointed question, “Why does this generation seek a sign?” Is it an excuse for not believing the truth he taught? And what about God’s brilliant creation, isn’t that a sign? Yes, but it doesn’t prove who Jesus is. And this is the key problem. All four Gospels seek to reveal who Jesus was and why he had to come. Matthew records this event and includes that it is a wicked and adulterous generation that asks for a miraculous sign! (Math 1236). Jesus continued, “Truly, I say to you, no sign will be given to this generation.” Both Matthew and Luke then add, “except the sign of the prophet Jonah. For as Jonah was three days and three nights in the belly of a huge fish, so the Son of Man will be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth.” But for this sign to be seen they would have to wait over 2 years, until he was crucified and rose from the dead. And even then they would not believe. Today people still seek signs and miracles, and while they can help the seeker to believe in the reality of Jesus, their importance should not be over emphasised or sought in the quest for God’s mercy and the forgiveness of sin. Frank Morrison was skeptic regarding Christianity, and set about trying to disprove it. ‘ Who moved the stone?’ is the book he wrote of how he came to faith in Christ. It examines the recorded facts rather than seeking signs. |
| Mk 814-21 |
While they were once more crossing Galilee, Jesus cautioned them, saying, “Watch out; beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and the leaven of Herod. They only had one loaf in the boat and were discussing this problem. But Jesus reminded them how he had solved the problem when feeding first 5,000 and then 4,000. So what was ‘the leaven of the Pharisees’? Hypocrisy and political power - Beware of both these. Historically, the Church would have done better if it had heeded this warning. |
| Mk 822-26 Blind man sees |
When Jesus came to Bethsaida a blind man was brought to him. He led him out of the village, spat on his eyes laid hands on him, he asked him, “Do you see anything?” And he looked up and said, “I see people, but they look like trees, walking.” Then Jesus laid his hands on his eyes again ... and he saw everything clearly. He was then told not to return to the village. Some aspects of this miracle are unusual. The Lord had good reason for them. |
| Mk 827 - 91 “The Christ!” |
While walking between the villages, Jesus asked his disciples, “Who do people say that I am?” They told him, “John the Baptist; and others say, Elijah; and others, one of the prophets.” And he asked them, “But who do you say that I am?” Peter answered him, “You are the Christ.” And he strictly charged them to tell no one about him. He wanted the disciples to know who he was, but not the people. Why? As he had experienced when he fed the 5,000, the people would want to make him king. But first he had to be Redeemer and this required him to be crucified. He began to unfold this truth. Even Peter rebuked his Master and Jesus commanded, “Get behind me, Satan!” Then he called the crowd and taught them, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake and the gospel's will save it. For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul? This is somewhat different to modern teaching that calls people to follow Jesus. Few have the courage to also preach the truth that anyone who follows Jesus must take up his cross; that most who believe in Christ will be ridiculed, especially in school. In Muslim, Communist or Hindu countries many will killed if they become believers. |
| Mk 92-13 Transfiguration |
Jesus took Peter, James and John led them up a high mountain by themselves ... his clothes became radiant, intensely white. They witnessed Moses and Elijah (the Law and the Prophets - and Moses was now in the promised land) talking with Jesus. Peter suggested that they make 3 tabernacles, for he did not know what to say. And a cloud overshadowed them, and a voice came out of the cloud, “This is my beloved Son; listen to him.” As they descended the mountain Jesus told them not to tell anyone what they had seen until the Son of Man had risen from the dead. |
| Mk 914-29 An unclean spirit |
After coming down from the mountain Jesus found a commotion because the disciples were unable to cast out an unclean spirit from a young boy. Jesus said, “O faithless generation, how long am I to be with you? ... Bring him to me.” The boy immediately fell to the ground and convulsed. He asked how long this had been happening and his father told him “From childhood.” Jesus rebuked the mute and deaf spirit to leave the boy and never to return. After further convulsions it left, with the the boy lying on the ground. Jesus lifted him up and he arose. Later his disciples asked him privately, “Why could we not cast it out?” And he said to them, “This kind cannot be driven out by anything but prayer.” And that prayer must have all the authority of the Lord Almighty. Also when the father had asked Jesus for help if he could; Jesus assured him, “‘If you can’! All things are possible for one who believes.” |
| Mk 930-32 Why the Cross? |
Jesus needed to teach the disciples that he had not come to establish his world-wide righteous kingdom, but to be the sacrifice that would pay the required redemption price. This was one of the 16 separate occasions that he told them this vital truth. But they did not understand the saying, and were afraid to ask him. It would not be until after he had risen that God’s plan for salvation would be revealed. Today it is often taught that the Cross proves God’s love for us, which is true. But it is much more than this. It is the absolute necessity to appease the wrath of God for our disobedience and sin. Propitiation. Without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness of sin. Christ, having been offered once to bear the sins of many, will appear a second time, not to deal with sin but to save those who are eagerly waiting for him. Heb 922, 28 Men still find it hard to accept and understand this truth. Is sin really that bad? |
| Mk 933-37 Who is greatest? |
At the end of one journey Jesus asked the disciples what they had been discussing. But they kept silent, for on the way they had argued with one another about who was the greatest. Compare with UK parliament, TV and what is reportedly said on social media! But the Son of God said them, “If anyone would be first, he must be last of all and servant of all.” And he himself followed this maxim; he was willing to be crucified! |
| Mk 938-41 If not against us, for us |
John said to him, “Teacher, we saw someone casting out demons in your name, and we tried to stop him, because he was not following us.” But Jesus told him not to stop him because no one who does a mighty work in my name will be able soon afterward to speak evil of me. |
| Mk 942-50 Resist temptations |
If your hand causes you to sin, cut it off. It is better for you to enter life crippled than with two hands to go to hell, to the unquenchable fire. And if your eye causes you to sin, tear it out. It is better for you to enter the kingdom of God with one eye than with two eyes to be thrown into hell. While Jesus does not expect us to obey this physically, he does emphasise the terrible consequences of all sin. And he has most graciously opened the way for all who repent and believe to be saved from hell and enter heaven with him. |
| Mk 101-12 Divorce |
The Pharisees questioned Jesus, not to learn and profit from his answer, but to try to embarrass and discredit him. On one occasion they asked, “Is it lawful for a man to divorce his wife?” Knowing their intention, he returned to them, “What did Moses command you?” The Pharisees replied, “Moses allowed a man to write a certificate of divorce and to send her away.” Jesus said to them, “Because of your hardness of heart he wrote you this commandment. But from the beginning of creation, ‘God made them male and female.’ Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and hold fast to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh.’ So they are no longer two but one flesh. What therefore God has joined together, let not man separate.” As expected from the Son of God, this was a brilliant answer. It also has significant bearing on the modern false LGBT idea that anyone can choose their own gender. As Mark Dolan said, “only a woman has a cervix.” She also has XX chromosomes, whereas a male has XY. No one can change the 46 chromosomes they are born with in each of their billions of cells in their bodies. Later with his disciples he told them, “Whoever divorces his wife and marries another commits adultery against her, and if she divorces her husband and marries another, she commits adultery.” Again, this is also challenged today. |
| Mk 1013-16 Come as children |
The disciples thought that the blessing of children by Jesus was a waste of time. But he told them, “Let the children come to me ... whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child shall not enter it.” How did the children come? With simple trust, uncomplicated and without a bag-load of doubts and criticisms. |
| Mk 1017-31 Problem of riches |
An earnest young man knelt before Jesus and asked him, “Good Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?” Many youngsters sincerely ask this same question. But Jesus first asks him a question, “Why do uo call me good? No one is good except God alone.” How could this help the man’s question? 1. If Jesus was good, then he must be God! Thus Jesus reveals who he was. 2. If only God is good, then there is nothing a man can do to become good. Jesus then quotes 5 of the 10 Commandments. To which the young man truthfully said he had kept these all his life, but doing so didn’t give assurance of eternal life. Jesus loved him and was willing to test the extent of his desire for eternal life, so he told him to sell all, give to the poor and follow him. Sadly this was too high a price. So he went away disheartened and sorrowful. Jesus was sad too.
Note: Donating all his wealth can never earn eternal life. But the willingness to do so and then coming to follow Jesus would have enabled him to learn what would guarantee him a place in heaven - namely by believing that this ‘good man’ would shortly lay down his life to save him. |
| Mk 1032-34 Jesus prophesies again |
Jesus again tells the 12, “See, we are going up to Jerusalem, and the Son of Man will be delivered over to the chief priests and the scribes, and they will condemn him to death and deliver him over to the Gentiles. And they will mock him and spit on him, and flog him and kill him. And after three days he will rise.” They still found the death of the Son of God beyond their understanding. The true reason why he had to die remains a mystery, even to many churchgoers. |
| Mk 1035-45 Favouritism |
A request was made to Jesus that Zebedee’s sons, James and John, would sit either side of Jesus in the kingdom of God. (It seems that their mother came with them and who actually asked Jesus the question is not significant. Math 2020 + Mk 1035) Jesus said to them, “You do not know what you are asking.” Then he tested them by asking, “Are you able to drink the cup that I drink, or to be baptized with the baptism with which I am baptized ?” Surprisingly they said ‘yes’, which only emphasises how little they knew at this stage. Jesus agreed with their answer and prophesied that they would drink the same cup of persecution. But the seating arrangement in the Kingdom was not for him to decide. The other 10 disciples were not too happy. They began to be indignant at James and John. So Jesus called them all together and told them not to be like the rulers of the Gentiles who sought authority. “But whoever would be great among you must be your servant ... For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” This truth diffused the problem of thirst for power and privilege. Through history a number of Christian leaders would have done far better to have read and taken to heart this incident and the gracious conclusion of Jesus. |
| Mk 1046-32 Bartimaeus healed |
A blind beggar sat by the roadside near Jericho. He heard Jesus was passing by so he repeatedly cried out, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” When Jesus heard him he called for him to come near and asked what he wanted. Bartimaeus replied, “Rabbi, let me recover my sight.” Jesus replied, “Go your way; your faith has made you well.” He immediately recovered his sight and followed him. But he would only have a few days as Jesus was on his final journey to Jerusalem. |
| Mk 111-11 Jesus enters Jerusalem |
As Jesus neared Bethphage he sent two disciples to go and untie a colt and tell the owner, “the Lord needs it for a short time.” He needed to fulfill the prophecy: Behold, your king is coming to you, humble, and mounted on a donkey. Zech 99 Many people spread cloaks and palm branches on the road and cried out: “Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Blessed is the coming kingdom of our father David! Hosanna in the highest!” He entered the Temple and as it was late he went out to Bethany with the twelve; and presumably with the colt to return it. |
| Mk 1112-14 Fig tree cursed |
This is an interesting incident. Jesus was hungry. Seeing a fig tree he went to see if there was any fruit. But there wasn’t any. So he cursed the tree. Mark adds a detail that it was not the season for figs. Jesus would have known that the first figs do not ripen in Israel until mid June, and this was at Passover (early April). So why did he look for fruit to eat? The first figs form on the old wood and should have been small and very green. (The main crop forms on new wood and ripens in August). So when Jesus saw no fruit, not even the young green fruit, was he likening it to the Pharisees and the Temple traders that he had just seen and was about to cleanse. (See next paragraph) They should have had some understanding, some longing for the Saviour, some green fruit; but there was none. So they were doomed. The apostles and some of the disciples did not yet understand why Jesus had to be crucified, but they did have the beginnings, the green fruit of faith. Jesus always had a good reason for his actions. And Mark had a good reason for including this in his Gospel. |
| Mk 1115-19 Temple cleansed |
When Jesus came to the Temple he began to drive out those who sold and those who bought in the temple, and he overturned the tables of the money-changers and the seats of those who sold pigeons. Why was he so angry? “Is it not written, My house shall be called a house of prayer for all the nations’? But you have made it a den of robbers.” Putting a stop to their highly profitable trade, especially just before Passover, caused the chief priests and the scribes to be even more determined to destroy Jesus. But they feared him, because all the crowd was astonished at his teaching. |
| Mk 1120-26 Fig tree lesson |
Next day when they saw the fig tree was already withered. Jesus told them, “Have faith in God. ... whatever you ask in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours. And whenever you stand praying, forgive ...” This was a further lesson He needed to teach them. Whatever you ask for, believe. And first, be sure it is what the Lord desires and that we forgive others as we ask to be forgiven. |
| Mk 1127-33 Authority challenged |
The chief priests and the scribes and the elders came to him, and they said to him, “By what authority are you doing these things, or who gave you this authority to do them?” Jesus answered their question by asking them a question. “Was the baptism of John from heaven or from man?” But they couldn’t answer it, or rather they wouldn’t answer it. “If we say, ‘From heaven,’ he will say, Why then did you not believe him?’ But shall we say, ‘From man’?”—they were afraid of the people, for they all held that John really was a prophet. So Jesus didn’t answer their question. |
| Mk 121-12 Wicked tenants |
Jesus told a parable about a man who built and planted a fine vineyard. He then leased it to tenants and went to another country. When the season came, he sent a servant to the tenants to get from them some of the fruit of the vineyard. And they took him and beat him and sent him away empty-handed. They did the same to a second servant and then killed a third servant. Finally he sent his beloved son, but they killed him too. What will the owner of the vineyard do? He will come and destroy the tenants and give the vineyard to others. This story angered the Pharisees even more, but they feared the people. So Jesus left them. But not before quoting the scripture: The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone; this was the Lord's doing, and it is marvellous in our eyes. Ps 11822,23 |
| Mk 1213-17 Pharisees question |
The Pharisees asked, “Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar?” Jesus replied, “Why put me to the test? Bring me a denarius ... Whose likeness and inscription is this? ... Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s and to God the things that are God’s.” Even the Pharisees marvelled at his reply. |
| Mk 1218-27 Sadducees question |
The Pharisees had failed, so the Sadducees had a go with their trick question. A man with 7 brothers married a wife but died without any children. Moses wrote that his brother should then marry her. He died too. This was repeated 7 times. Then came their question, “In the resurrection, whose wife will she be?” Jesus replied, “You are wrong, because you know neither the Scriptures nor the power of God? For when they rise from the dead, they neither marry nor are given in marriage, but are like angels in heaven. ... have you not read in the book of Moses, in the passage about the bush, how God spoke to him, saying, I am the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob’? He is not God of the dead, but of the living. You are quite wrong.” Mark does not record their response. |
| Mk 1228-34 A Scribe’s question |
Then one of the Scribes who had heard the answers Jesus had given, came up with a genuine question. “Which commandment is the most important of all?” So Jesus answered by simply quoting two scriptures. Deut 64,5 Lev 19 ‘Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’ The second is this: ‘You shall love your neighbour as yourself.’ The Scribe acknowledged the truth of this and even said “this is much more than all whole burnt offerings and sacrifices.” Jesus then told him, “You are not far from the kingdom of God.” We are not told what happened to this man; how did he respond to this encouragement by the Son of God? |
| Mk 1235-37 Jesus’ question |
“How can the scribes say that the Christ is the son of David? David himself, in the Holy Spirit, declared, “‘The Lord said to my Lord, “Sit at my right hand, until I put your enemies under your feet.”’ No one could answer this question. Why? Simple ! Because none realised that Jesus who was the son of Mary, descended from David, was also the Son of God, born of the Holy Spirit. |
| Mk 1238-40 Beware of Scribes |
Jesus warns the people to beware of the Scribes because they loved to be held in honour and have the highest privileges. But they did not deserve it. |
| Mk 1241-44 Widow gives more |
Sitting by the Temple treasury Jesus noticed a poor widow came and put in two small copper coins. He told the disciples the truth that she had given more than all the rich because she gave everything she had, all she had to live on. |
| Mk 131-37 Signs of the End |
Jesus responds to being shown the wonderful Temple building, “There will not be left here one stone upon another that will not be thrown down.” This was a considerable surprise to all who expected the Messiah to give them victory over Rome. Later they asked when this would happen and what would be the signs? Jesus told them: 1. See that no one leads you astray. 135 Who would do this? Many will come in my name. Religious people will come with message of false hope, victorious restoration without the reason for the Cross. 2. Wars and rumors of wars. Also earthquakes and famine = only birth pains. 3. Persecution. But the gospel must first be proclaimed to all nations. ... you will be hated by all for my name's sake. But the one who endures to the end will be saved. 4. The abomination of desolation. Could this be the Golden Dome that declares (in Arabic) that God has no son? The coming will be sudden; so learn to be ready. 5. Such tribulation as has not been from the beginning of the creation. It will be so great that it had to shortened for the sake of the elect. (Thus, not yet happened) 6. False christs and false prophets will arise. They will perform signs and wonders, to lead astray, if possible, even the elect. But be on guard. 1 to 3 have been and continue to be fulfilled during the last 2,000 years. 5 and 6 await the greater fulfilment that will be short and clear.
After the tribulation (of 5 and 6 above):
Truly, I say to you, this generation will not pass away until all these things take place. But what did Jesus mean when he said ‘this generation’?
Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.
But concerning that day or that hour, no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. |
| Mk 141,2 Who rules the world? |
It was now just 2 days before Passover. The chief priests wanted to arrest him by stealth and kill him ... though Not during the feast, lest there be an uproar. But Almighty God had always determined that it should be at Passover, for Jesus was ‘the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world’. Jn 129 The Lamb whose blood was painted on the doorposts in Egypt that would protect the Jews from the avenging angel and they would be released from slavery to the Egyptians, and to sin. Pilate and the Jewish leaders only did what your power and will had decided beforehand should happen. Act 428 It was a brave plan made even before Almighty God created the world and man, who he knew would rebel and need rescuing. |
| Mk 143-9 Jesus anointed |
Jesus was having a meal with Simon (the cured leper) in Bethany, when a woman came in and poured some very expensive oil over his head. It obviously caused quite a stir and some complained that it was a terrible waste! It could have been sold and the money given to the poor. But Jesus saw it quite differently. "She has done what she could; she has anointed my body beforehand for burial. And truly, I say to you, wherever the gospel is proclaimed in the whole world, what she has done will be told in memory of her.” And so it has been. Jesus had told the disciples on at least 16 different recorded occasions that it was the plan of God for him to be crucified. (See website ‘Jesus had to Suffer’) But at the time none of them had yet grasped this great truth that this was the only way to gain the forgiveness of God. The woman probably did not know the theology either. She was just expressing her gratitude that Jesus had forgiven her sinful life! (Lu 737) No wonder Jesus said that this event would always be told as part of the gospel story. |
| Mk 1410,11 Judas plans betrayal |
Following the correction by Jesus that the anointing was not a waste of money (Math 269), Judas went to the chief priests in order to betray Jesus. They paid him 30 pieces of silver. (Math 2615) |
| Mk 1412-25 Passover |
The disciples asked Jesus, “Where will you have us go and prepare for you to eat the Passover?” He told two of them to “Go into the city, and a man carrying a jar of water will meet you. Follow him ... he will show you a large upper room furnished and ready” It was unusual for a man to fetch the water. Maybe he was an Essene.(see Last Supper in John’s Gospel study notes) Later, while they were celebrating, Jesus again told them, “Truly, I say to you, one of you will betray me ... For the Son of Man goes as it is written of him, but woe to that man by whom the Son of Man is betrayed!” He had told them many times but they didn’t yet understand. Now it was actually happening. Jesus blessed and broke the bread and told them. “Take; this is my body.” Then he gave thanks for the wine in the cup and said, “This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many.” (But not for Roman Catholic laity!) On the Cross Jesus not only completed the agreed plan for the salvation of sinful men, but he also instructs us to remember that when we eat bread and drink wine we remember what he had done for us. Transubstantiation seeks to repeat the sacrifice Jesus made, as in the OT sacrifices. But on the the Cross Jesus made ‘a full, perfect and sufficient sacrifice for the sins of the world’; It does not need to be repeated, indeed, it cannot be repeated. Many Reformation martyrs died to uphold this truth; this profound simplicity that Jesus told them on that Passover evening. |
| Mk 1426-31 Peter will deny Christ, but not for ever. |
On the Mt of Olives Jesus reminded them, “You will all fall away, for it is written, ‘I will strike the shepherd, and the sheep will be scattered.’ (Zech 137b) Peter immediately said he would never fall away. So Jesus told him, “Truly, I tell you, this very night, before the rooster crows twice, you will deny me three times.” Peter and the others again said they would never deny Jesus. But they did. Man cannot always keep even his best intentions. None of the apostles died peacefully in bed; they all eventually died for their Master. |
| Mk 1432-42 Prayer in Gethsemane |
Jesus took only Peter, James and John with him to pray. He began to be greatly distressed and troubled. Why? He knew that in just 12 hours time he would have to suffer that most cruel death that Rome could devise - crucifixion. Also, and probably even worse, was the fact that he was about to take upon himself all the sins of the whole world over all the centuries. And this would separate him from his Father. Jesus went on alone and prayed, “Abba, Father, all things are possible for you. Remove this cup from me. Yet not what I will, but what you will.” But in truth he knew there was no other way by which sinful men could be saved. The three disciples knew nothing of this agony and he found them sleeping. He said to them, “Could you not watch one hour? Watch and pray that you may not enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.” He went away again to pray alone and returned to find them asleep. And again, a third time. He then told them, “The hour has come. The Son of Man is betrayed into the hands of sinners. Rise, let us be going; see, my betrayer is at hand.” |
| Mk 1443-52 Jesus arrested |
Judas came with an armed crowd from the chief priests. As a sign whom they should arrest, he kissed Jesus. One of those who stood by drew his sword and struck the servant of the high priest and cut off his ear. Jesus said to them, “Have you come out as against a robber, with swords and clubs to capture me? Day after day I was with you in the temple teaching, and you did not seize me. But let the Scriptures be fulfilled.” All the disciples fled including one who had to flee naked after they seized his linen cloth. At no time, then or now, does the hand of Almighty God let go of his creation. |
| Mk 1453-65 Before the Sanhedrin |
Jesus was taken to the High Priest and all the Sanhedrin, which was illegal as it was night. They desperately tried to find two witnesses whose testimony agreed. But they failed. Jesus, correctly, refused to answer any question arising from one witness. Finally the High Priest asked him, “Are you the Christ, the Son of the Blessed One?” This question Jesus did answer. “I am,” said Jesus. “And you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Mighty One and coming on the clouds of heaven.” For this they condemned him of blasphemy and worthy of death. Then some began to spit at him; they blindfolded him, struck him with their fists, and said, “Prophesy!” And the guards took him and beat him. It was not a fair or legal trial. And for Jesus it was not blasphemy, but the truth. |
| Mk 1466-72 Peter denies Jesus |
Meanwhile Peter was below in the courtyard. One of the servant girls said, “You also were with the Nazarene, Jesus.” Peter replied, “I neither know nor understand what you mean.” He went out into the gateway and the rooster crowed. The servant girl said to the bystanders, “This man is one of them.” But again Peter denied it. A bystander said, “Certainly you are one of them, for you are a Galilean.” Peter began to curse and swear, “I do not know this man of whom you speak.” And immediately the rooster crowed a second time. And Peter remembered how Jesus had said, “Before the rooster crows twice, you will deny me three times.” Peter broke down and wept. This is a detailed and honest account that Peter gave to Mark. |
| Mk 151-15 Jesus and Pilate |
After consideration the Chief Priests bound Jesus and took him to Pilate, who had one question: “Are you the King of the Jews?” Jesus answered, “You have said so.” Then he was accused of many things; but as before the Sanhedrin, Jesus was silent. The custom was that at the feast Pilate would release the prisoner they asked for. The chief priests made certain that the crowd did not choose Jesus, but Barabbus. And then to demand that Jesus was crucified. “Why?” said Pilate, “What evil has he done?” So the ‘rent a mob’ cried even louder, “Crucify him.” So Pilate, wishing to satisfy the crowd, released for them Barabbas, and having scourged Jesus, he delivered him to be crucified. So for cheap popularity, Pilate was overwhelmed, (except it was not cheap). The crowd and the Priests got what they wanted; and another step in God’s plan was completed. It must have seemed incomprehensible when at the start of his time on earth, God was made man. Now it was also incomprehensible for the same ‘Man’, to be cruelly killed by men. But in just 3 days time they would know the reason for God’s plan. |
| Mk 1516-20 Mocked by soldiers |
Soldiers are good at fighting, and these were are also skilled at mocking and bullying. They dressed Jesus in a purple cloak (I wonder whose it was?) They carefully twisted a crown of thorns (with the thorns pointing inwards) and crowned him king. They struck him with a reed, knelt, paying homage to him and spat on him. No grave injuries, which they were equally good at inflicting, just a very thorough mocking. But the Son of God bore it all without any complaint. What a contrast to the time, which his mother must have told him about, when 3 Magi came from afar bearing gifts, and shepherds crowded round rejoicing. Such was his life. And the man who provided it, got his purple cloak back. |
| Mk 1521-41 Crucifixion |
Simon was compelled to carry the cross to Golgotha for Jesus. The offered him wine mixed with myrrh, but he refused. Was this always offered to men being crucified? They crucified him and divided his garments among them, casting lots for them, to decide what each should take. What a strange sentence. How can crucifying the Son of God have any comparison with who got his socks! The crime that deserved crucifixion? “The King of the Jews” ! He was crucified between two robbers. The chief priests with the scribes enjoyed mocking Jesus saying, “He saved others; he cannot save himself.” But they didn’t realise the truth of what they said. At noon, after being 3 hours on the Cross, there was darkness over the whole land for another 3 hours. Jesus cried out, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” Then John tells us he cried, “It is finished,” and he bowed his head and gave up his spirit. (Jn 1930 And the prophecy which Abraham had made to Isaac some 2,000 years earlier was fulfilled: “God himself will provide the lamb for the burnt offering, my son.” Gen 228 Even a centurion realised something of the truth when he said, “Truly this man was the Son of God!” Several of the women who followed Jesus were brave enough to come and witness this ‘triumph’ of the Saviour over sin; though it did not seem a triumph at the time |
| Mk 1542-47 Buried |
And when evening had come, since it was the day of Preparation, that is, the day before the Sabbath ... ‘The Day of Preparation’ was the day when all the Passover lambs were slain. How appropriate that this was the very day when the Lamb of God was crucified. In this quote ‘The Sabbath’ was the special Sabbath that was the first day of Passover. Jesus had celebrated ‘the last supper’ with his disciples on the previous evening when the Essenes celebrated their Passover. Joseph went to Pilate to ask for the body of Jesus. Pilate was surprised to hear that he should have already died. And summoning the centurion, he asked him whether he was already dead. And when he learned from the centurion that he was dead, he granted the corpse to Joseph. And he, with Nicodemus (Jn 1939), Wrapped him in a linen shroud and laid him in the tomb he had prepared for himself. They also rolled a very large (164) stone against the entrance. |
| Mk 161-8 Resurrection |
When the Sabbath was past ... very early on the first day of the week ... the three ladies went to the tomb to anoint Jesus. This was the normal Saturday Sabbath, not the ‘special Passover Sabbath that was on Friday that year. (Otherwise Jesus was only in the tomb Friday, Saturday night and just one day - Saturday. Jesus said he was going to be buried in the heart of the earth for 3 days and 3 nights. Math 1240 Jn 1931 also confirms that tradition may have got the crucifixion day wrong.) The three ladies were surprised to find that the large stone had been rolled back - not to let the risen Jesus out, but to enable them to see that he was not there! But they did see an angel in white who told them Jesus had risen, and they should go and tell the disciples that he would see them in Galilee as he had told them earlier. One of the three, Mary Magdalene, went and told them. But when they heard that he was alive and had been seen by her, they would not believe it. Jesus also appeared in another form to two of them, as they were walking into the country. And they went back and told the rest, but they did not believe them. This was most probably the two going home to Emmaus that Luke records. Lu 2413-35 |
| Mk 1614-20 Commissioned |
Jesus himself appeared to the eleven, and rebuked them for their unbelief and hardness of heart. But he did not hold it against them, but instead gave them a task that would fill the rest of their lives. “Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation. Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned.” He also told them that those who believed in my name would be able to cast out demons and heal the sick. After Jesus had ascended into heaven (40 days later Act 13) they went out and preached everywhere and the Lord confirmed his word to them. |
Luke [Contents]
| Lu 11-4 Why did the Holy Spirit direct Luke to write this Gospel? |
At the time there were several other accounts of the life and work of Jesus but
were incomplete. He wanted Theophilus, and others, to have a reliable version;
only then could he and future generations be certain of God's truth. Luke's account is as claimed 'orderly', but in several areas is not chronological. |
| Lu 15-25 How did God prepare the world for the birth of Jesus? |
Scripture reveals that Almighty God makes careful preparation for all he does.
The Genesis account of creation reveals how he made and prepared this little
planet to be so special, how he prepared it for vegetation, animal and man.
2,000 years ago his preparation involved sending a special prophet to herald his
coming. On the day Zechariah was chosen to burn incense in the Temple he had no idea how God would change his life, and that of Elizabeth, his wife, by promising to give them a son in their old age - John Baptist. Zechariah was stuck dumb because he was slow to believe the word of God that Gabriel spoke to him. But Elizabeth did bear him a son - and what a son! They did not live to see the day when John began to proclaim, "Behold! the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world." But they did know that he was to be very special in the plan of God and that he would fulfill the truth Gabriel spoke: "He will be filled with the Holy Spirit even from birth. Many of the people of Israel will he bring back to the Lord their God. And he will go on before the Lord, in the spirit and power of Elijah, to turn the hearts of the fathers to their children and the disobedient to the wisdom of the righteous–to make ready a people prepared for the Lord." Like Amram and Jochebed knew their third child, Moses, was chosen to be such a 'special child' who would deliver Israel from slavery in Egypt. Exd 22 Like Moses was brought up in Pharaoh's court, so John was in probability brought up by the Essenes. And as Moses prepared for the day when Joshua would lead Israel into the promised land, so John would prepare the way for Jesus to be our Saviour. |
| Lu 126-38 Gabriel has another mission. |
He goes to a teenage virgin in the obscure village of Nazareth and said:
"Greetings, you who are highly favoured! The Lord is with you." Mary is alarmed! And even more so as Gabriel continues to tell her God's plan: "Mary, you have found favour with God. You will be with child and give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever; his kingdom will never end. The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God. Even Elizabeth your relative is going to have a child in her old age, and she who was said to be barren is in her sixth month. For nothing is impossible with God." Mary's response to this incredible proclamation was simply: "I am the Lord's servant. May it be to me as you have said." Talk about a steep learning curve! God knew Mary, and Mary trusted Lord God - that is why she was chosen. For us, familiarity can easily dull the sheer astonishment of this prophetic event. Mary had much more to learn - a meek lady who, God greatly enjoyed teaching. |
| Lu 139-45 Two pregnant Mum's rejoice together. |
Both babies were miraculously conceived. One would be the world's greatest
prophet (Lu 728) and the other was Jesus, the Son of God! At their meeting John,
at just 6 months gestation, leapt for joy in Elizabeth's womb. 30 years later he
would cry, "Behold!" These were the two times of greatest joy in his life. What causes us to rejoice? What and when will our greatest longing be fulfilled? "Blessed is she who has believed that what the Lord has said to her will be accomplished!" "And blessed is the child you will bear!" Indeed so. But his blessing would include Calvary. He would fulfill God's promise to Abraham. And all peoples on earth will be blessed through you. Gen 123 |
| Lu 146-56 How did a teenager sing to the Lord such a beautiful song? |
"My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Saviour, for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant. From now on all generations will call me blessed, for the Mighty One has done great things for me – holy is his name. His mercy extends to those who fear him, from generation to generation. He has performed mighty deeds with his arm; he has scattered those who are proud in their inmost thoughts. He has brought down rulers from their thrones but has lifted up the humble. He has filled the hungry with good things but has sent the rich away empty. He has helped his servant Israel, remembering to be merciful to Abraham and his descendants forever, even as he said to our fathers." What a beautiful song! It quotes OT Scripture throughout. All the world's leaders should read this every morning. Note the emphasis upon Almighty God fulfilling his covenant with Abraham and his descendants and which continues today. This everlasting covenant will only be complete when God's righteous Kingdom is established. |
| Lu 157-80 Why is John's name so important? |
John = "YAHWEH is gracious". God had been gracious to Zechariah and Elizabeth,
but even more so to Israel and the world because the time was near for the
Saviour of the world to be born - he alone would enable sin to be forgiven. Zechariah wrote, "His name is John." ... And immediately his mouth was opened. It was such an emphatic and God-instructed statement. Then he prophesied: "Blessed be the Lord God of Israel, for he has visited and redeemed his people and has raised up a horn of salvation for us in the house of his servant David, as he spoke by the mouth of his holy prophets from of old, that we should be saved from our enemies and from the hand of all who hate us; to show the mercy promised to our fathers and to remember his holy covenant, the oath that he swore to our father Abraham, to grant us that we, being delivered from the hand of our enemies, might serve him without fear, in holiness and righteousness before him all our days. And you, child, will be called the prophet of the Most High; for you will go before the Lord to prepare his ways, to give knowledge of salvation to his people in the forgiveness of their sins, because of the tender mercy of our God, whereby the sunrise shall visit us from on high to give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace." At last the great promise of God for our salvation was about to be fulfilled. Zechariah was shown so clearly that John would point to the imminent coming of Jesus to bring salvation and the forgiveness of sin. Like Mary, he saw the faithfulness of Almighty God in keeping his covenant. |
| Lu 21-6 The date and the place? |
Augustus ruled Rome 27BC - 14AD. Birth of Jesus 4-6BC. Bethlehem - as
prophesied. Mic 52 Jn 74 Math 21-12 The Magi saw the star in the East and somehow knew (how?) that the Jewish Messiah was about to be born, so they went to Jerusalem. There they were told to go to Bethlehem. Following another special star, they went, and found him there. Daniel had told Babylon about the Messiah, the Anointed One who would come. They saw the star in the East, and travelled West! Star over Bethlehem was a special 'light' over the stable (no GPS)! Nazareth to Bethlehem ~ 100 miles. A manger is an excellent crib; but is a humble place for the King of kings. |
| Lu 28-20 Despised shepherds chosen to enrich Mary's treasure trove. |
It was a busy year for the angels. Zechariah, Mary, Joseph, probably the Magi and now some shepherds. Their revelation? Today in the town of David a Saviour has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. The shepherds immediately said, "Let's go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about." They found him and joyfully told everyone what had happened. Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. 219,33,51 146 The Lord God took great care in how he introduced his Son to the world. But Though the world was made through him, the world did not recognise him ... Yet to all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God. Jn 110-12 |
| Lu 221-24 3 family 'duties' after birth. |
1. Eighth day - circumcision (Lev 123) and named Jesus (as per angel 131). 2. Purification of mother after further 33 days (Lev 124-8) 3. Consecration of firstborn male. (Exd 131-16) It was important for Mary and Joseph to fulfill all the requirements of the Law. |
| Lu 225-40 What were Simeon & Anna expecting, and why? |
Simeon was waiting for the consolation of Israel ... It had been revealed to him
by the Holy Spirit that he would not die before he had seen the Lord's Christ. Simeon was watching, waiting; he did not miss the event (previous para). "Lord, now you are letting your servant depart in peace, according to your word; for my eyes have seen your salvation that you have prepared in the presence of all peoples, a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and for glory to your people Israel." Simeon said to Mary his mother, "Behold, this child is appointed for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign that is opposed (and a sword will pierce through your own soul also), so that thoughts from many hearts may be revealed." (both ESV) He knew something of the cost of redemption. Likewise the elderly (84) Anna was waiting for the redemption of Jerusalem. She was not disappointed and shared what she had seen. Luke does not mention the flight to Egypt to escape Herod's murdering, which presumably happened immediately after this. |
| Lu 241-52 Jesus amazes Temple teachers |
Mary and Joseph took Jesus each year to Jerusalem for Passover. For 3 days Jesus was in Temple sitting among the teachers, listening to them and asking them questions. And all who heard him were amazed at his understanding and his answers. Jesus listened, asked questions and answered them! When Mary found him she said, "Behold, your father and I have been searching for you in great distress." And he said to them, "Why were you looking for me? Did you not know that I must be in my Father's house?" (ESV) This contains a mild correction. Did Jesus call Joseph 'Abba'? |
| Lu 31-20 Why did God call John? What was his message? Does it apply today? (see website - John the Baptist) |
All the 'rich and famous' are named, Caesar, Pilate, 3 tetrarchs and 2 high priests, but the word of God came to John son of Zechariah in the desert. Zechariah and Elizabeth had died some years before, and John was living in the desert - maybe among the Essenes who practised water baptism/cleansing. John simply preached a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. He was A voice of one calling in the desert, 'Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for him. ... And all mankind will see God's salvation.' Almighty God had been born on earth!! And he was about to begin his ministry. After 4,000 years of man's history this was by far the greatest event. It would only ever be equalled by the day of his return to earth as King. He wanted men to be ready - but today the same readiness cry remains. 'Prepare the way for the Lord'. Sadly, men on earth are still wicked; they still have other priorities. John did not covet popularity; only truth. But the crowds still came to him. Unlike the Pharisees, John gave them God's only answer to the conviction of sin. Some chose this narrow prepared road, found forgiveness and told their friends. He cried out: Who warned you to flee from the coming wrath? Produce fruit in keeping with repentance. And do not begin to say to yourselves, 'We have Abraham as our father.' Being a circumcised Jew (or baptised C of E) doesn't save a man. Few preachers today dare to proclaim the coming wrath of God. Some of his hearers asked if John might possibly be the Christ. John answered them all, "I baptize you with water. But one more powerful than I will come, the thongs of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire. His winnowing fork is in his hand to clear his threshing floor and to gather the wheat into his barn, but he will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire." And with many other words John exhorted the people and preached the good news to them. This was Good News!! One great day, the greatest, Jesus also came to John; who shouted for all to hear: "Behold! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world." Jn 129 Herod did not like John's preaching so he locked John up in prison. And shortly afterwards beheaded him. (Math 141-12) But John had faithfully completed all the work God had planned for him. Today the time is short, the just tribulation and judgement of God is near. But the world, and even the church, is not ready. Will God send another John in our day? |
| Lu 321-23 Jesus begins his ministry |
First, he was baptised by John. Why? To fulfill all righteousness. Math 313-15 Jesus, the Son of God, certainly never needed to repent. Father reveals his pleasure: "You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased." And John saw the Holy Spirit descended on him in bodily form like a dove. Jesus himself was about thirty years old. Thus qualified to be a Jewish Rabbi. |
| Lu 324-38 The Genealogy of Jesus See J C Ryle commentary Lu & Math. |
There is some mystery here because Luke and Matthew give different accounts. Luke probably gives that for Mary as child of Heli (not son of Joseph). While Matthew gives the legal account (not blood descent) through Joseph. His account includes two gracious surprises: Rahab the harlot of Jericho and Ruth the Moabitess, wife of Boaz - both Gentiles. |
| Lu 41-13 Why was Jesus tempted? Why are we? |
Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, ... was led by the Spirit in the desert. Both his fast and his being tempted were ordained by Almighty God. Satan thought he could make God sin. He failed completely. Only Jesus could have related this event to his disciples so the objective was at least in part so we can learn how to deal with temptation. In each of the three temptations Jesus uses the Word of God - "It is written ..." Take ... the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. Eph 617 Diligent learning of the scriptures is thus essential for righteous living. Eve failed when Satan said to her, "Did God really say ..." Gen 31 All who modify or ignore scripture bring disaster upon themselves and the Church, whose characteristics becomes: 1. Self indulgence and personal desire, even if normally legitimate. 2. Thirst for power, authority, possessions, honour - instead of pleasing God. 3. Popularity, success, the esteem of men, especially through miracles. History and present situation prove we need to know and heed this passage - and not only Church leaders. |
| Lu 414-30 Why did the synagogue in Nazareth reject Jesus? |
They gave him the scroll of Isaiah. Jesus chose 611,2a "The Spirit of the Lord is on
me, because he has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent
me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to
release the oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord's favour." Jesus then proclaimed, "Today this scripture is fulfilled in your hearing." At this the synagogue spoke well of him and were amazed at his gracious words. But their amazement was based upon "Isn't this Joseph's son?" not on the grace of God and the truth. They became furious and really offended only when he told them that, "no prophet is accepted in his hometown." And gave two OT examples. They accepted Jesus as a 'a nice guy' but totally refused to see he was a prophet. And of course he was much more that just a prophet. Only he could actually 'deliver' on the statements in Is 611. Only the Son of God can make the blind see and truly bring the Lord's favour of forgiveness and mercy to the people. They were so furious that they tried to kill him, but Jesus walked right through the crowd and went on his way. Did this surprise them? |
| Lu 431-37 Power over demons then - and now? |
Jesus demonstrates his complete divine power over this demon that cruelly
possessed the man. The demon showed his displeasure by throwing the man to
the ground - but he was not injured, such was the power of God. In no way has Almighty God lost his power to deliver men today - but it is only seen rarely. Today many murders, suicides, rapes, addictions, spiritism and so called 'psychological' illnesses still have demonic roots, but very few Christians are able to minister in this realm. (e.g. Arthur Wallis and Edgar Trout) In Capernaum the people in the synagogue were, not surprisingly, amazed. Jesus had true authority to both teach and to deliver from demons. Today some leaders seem to enjoy exercising authority more than grace. |
| Lu 438-44 Jesus 'rebukes'. |
Peter's mother-in-law had 'a high fever' - Jesus rebuked it. Did it have a demonic
origin? In Math 815 Jesus 'touched her hand'. In Lu 824 and Math 826 Jesus
rebuked the wind and waves. Was the storm also of demonic origin? After sunset when Sabbath was over, Jesus healed many of their illness and also rebuked many demons and would not allow them to speak, because they knew he was the Christ. Filled with compassion for these needy folk Jesus proved his identity and power. May our spirits dream of the day when under the kingship of Jesus there will be no more sickness, demons, war, hunger, greed or pride. What a world the new heaven and earth will be! Lord, please come quickly! They wanted him to stay too. But he said, "I must preach the good news of the kingdom of God to the other towns also, because that is why I was sent." And he kept on preaching in the synagogues of Judea. One day there will no such physical restriction. What a day! |
| Lu 51-11 Four fishermen start new job |
Andrew and John had previously been down at the Jordan with John Baptist. They had heard and believed his testimony that Jesus was the 'Lamb of God'. Andrew had gone home to Bethsaida (25 miles) to tell Peter. Jn 129-42 They had all gone back to their fishing. Jesus asks to use one of their boats to preach. Then he gave Peter a fishing lesson! And a job change. James and John the sons of Zebedee, and Peter and Andrew the sons of (another) John, pulled their boats up on shore, left everything and followed him. Such zeal, such 'all or nothing' response. Rare in every generation. How did the two fathers manage? |
| Lu 512-26 Compare the faith of the Leper and the Paralytic. |
The leper did not doubt the ability of Jesus to heal him, he was only unsure if he
would want to. Leprosy is a very discriminating disease, even today. Lepers are
ostracised, no one wants to know them. Jesus assured him and then healed him. The paralytic and his friends demonstrated their faith in Jesus by their ingenious determination to get the man and his stretcher to be near Jesus. However the problem for the paralytic was not faith but sin! So Jesus first had to assure him his sin was forgiven. At this the Pharisees cried - "Blasphemy! Only God can forgive sins." Yes, they were right on this occasion. So Jesus gives them proof as to who he was. Which is easier: to say, 'Your sins are forgiven,' or to say, 'Get up and walk'? But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins. . . ." He said to the paralysed man, "I tell you, get up, take your mat and go home." Immediately he stood up in front of them, took what he had been lying on and went home praising God. The scripture then continues: Everyone was amazed and gave praise to God. I wonder if that included the Pharisees? Did they 'hear' what Jesus said? |
| Lu 527-32 Why did Jesus Call a Tax-collector? Why not?! |
Jesus called. Levi's response was immediate and wholehearted (like fishermen). Levi celebrated with Jesus. Heaven always does when a sinner repents. But the Pharisees and Scribes did not celebrate; they only criticised. Jesus answered them, "It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance." See also parable of Pharisee and Tax-collector praying in Lu 189-14 |
| Lu 533-39 Why is criticism so easy? |
John's disciple fast, those with Jesus didn't. The answer Jesus gave is simple. He reveals the purpose of fasting - to hear, understand and be closer to God. The disciples of Jesus didn't need to fast because he was with them. But one day when he was gone, they would. There is a time to fast and a time to rejoice. In a typically Jewish way he then told two parables to illustrate this truth. |
| Lu 61-11 Sabbath Laws - God or man's. |
God's commanded; "Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy." Exd 208 He further said they should do no work on the Sabbath. Why? For in six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth, the sea and all that is in them, but he rested on the seventh day. Thus a significant part of keeping the Sabbath holy is remembering God's Creation. Evolution Theory denies this and so abolishes Sabbath. I gave them my Sabbaths as a sign between us, so they would know that I the Lord made them holy. Ezek 2012 So the Sabbath is intended to enable man to have a special day to walk with God. A good description of being holy! The Pharisees emphasised a negative aspect of the Sabbath by writing 1,500 laws that defined what was and wasn't 'work'. Even today some Jews will not switch an electric light on / off but have to install a time-switch! Some distance from holiness. The Pharisees often accused Jesus of Sabbath breaking when they could have been asking The Lord of the Sabbath about being holy, explaining the Torah, learning the truth of God. They could have learned so much. See website: 'Jesus and the Pharisees on the Sabbath'. |
| Lu 612-16 12 Apostles |
Jesus took great care in choosing the Apostles - he had spent all night in prayer. There was a significant risk in each of them. Only one turned out to be a 'bad apple', and even that was all in the plan of God. Judas was similar to the tribe of Dan that chose to move from their allotted land near the Philistines to an easier area up in the north between Tyre and Mt Hermon. They were soon worshipping Baal. Dan is not listed in the 12 tribes in Rev 75-8 where Manasseh is added. |
| Lu 617-26 Who were healed? How did Jesus challenge normal human culture? |
The section begins the 'sermon on the mount'. Possibly Tabor or Gilboa - both have a significant flat area at the top. All who came to Jesus were healed and delivered and heard his preaching. They came from Jerusalem and Tyre - both a walk of ~ 50 miles! Matthew and Luke both quote different parts of probably the same sermon. Luke contrasts the positive blessing and the warning of judgement: |
| Blessed are you who are poor, for yours is the kingdom of God. |
But woe to you who are rich, for you have already received your comfort. |
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| Blessed are you who hunger now, for you will be satisfied. |
Woe to you who are well fed now, for you will go hungry. |
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| Blessed are you who weep now, for you will laugh. |
Woe to you who laugh now, for you will mourn and weep. |
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| Blessed are you when men hate you, when they exclude you and insult you and reject your name as evil, because of the Son of Man. |
Woe to you when all men speak well of you, for that is how their fathers treated the false prophets. |
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These are each primarily spiritual. As Matthew records ' blessed are the poor in spirit'. It is the those who are hungry for God who will be satisfied . It is those who weep over their sin and plead for the mercy of God who are assured by God that "Everyone who calls of the name of the Lord will be saved." The problem of the rich man in Lu 1619-31 was because he lived his life content without God. This is why the rich are so often condemned and how hard it is for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God. This truth turns the cultural goals of the world upside-down. It is well explained in Heb 1313-16 All these people were still living by faith when they died. They did not receive the things promised; they only saw them and welcomed them from a distance. And they admitted that they were aliens and strangers on earth. People who say such things show that they are looking for a country of their own. If they had been thinking of the country they had left, they would have had opportunity to return. Instead, they were longing for a better country–a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared a city for them. We may weep over our sin and that of the world for a season now, but the Lord stores up these tears and shares them. There will come a day when only righteousness, truth, love and justice will be our eternal experience. |
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| Lu 627-36 |
Jesus enlarges the meaning of love. Jesus included loving our enemies as well as our friends. A tall order! His love is much stronger than our rather sloppy modern idea. It included telling them clearly that some of his enemies were a bunch of hypocrites. Math 23. But he did not do so out of hate, but desire to reform them. On the cross he pleaded for them to be forgiven - they acted in ignorance. God so loved the world that he gave his one and only son ... Jn 316
It was also strong enough to willingly be crucified to bear the just punishment
that our sin deserves. Insults he bore without retaliation. |
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| Lu 637-42 What did Jesus mean by judge / condemn? |
We are repeatedly instructed to examine teaching with God's Word and thus not
be deceived. But many today say that to love we must we must always be
tolerant, and avoid any criticism of others because it is being 'judgmental'. Is this what Jesus meant here? I think not. Obviously we must avoid being forever quarrelsome and being proud in thinking we always know best. But we can with a humble spirit examine what men say / do in the light of Scripture. And that should include honest self-examination! Jesus warned his disciples to watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves. By their fruit you will recognise them. Math 715,16 Likewise Paul warned the Ephesians to keep watch, to be on guard against 'savage wolves'. Act 2025-31 Today Archbishop Welby and 60% of the C of E bishops support civil partnerships (i.e. homosexuality) and thus discard God's verdict that it is 'an abomination'. Jesus does not say that we should not 'judge' and seek to correct this clear error, but it is not for us to judge them and say they cannot be Christians. |
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| Lu 643-49 How much does what we say reflect what is in our heart? |
Jesus always spoke the truth: out of the overflow of his heart his mouth speaks. With him alone there was never ever even a syllable of deceit. With other men there is often pretense; our hearts are not always pure and true. When our words are deceitful, it is because our hearts are. This emphasises the need to take what and how we hear and always check it out alongside the Word of God. Also take care what we say and how we say it. A hasty foolish word is difficult to retract. What a man does is often a better judge of character than what he says. Jesus said that The good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and also he is like who comes to me and hears my words and puts them into practice - the man who builds upon good foundations. Both hearing and speaking are very important. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Lu 71-10 Does anyone ever deserve healing? |
No! This Centurion was obviously very friendly with the Jews - he even built a synagogue in Capernaum. God promised Abraham that all who bless the Jews will be blessed. And here he fulfills this promise. Jesus was amazed at the humility and faith of the Centurion and was delighted to heal his servant. It is most refreshing to see the good use of 'authority'. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Lu 711-17 Why did Jesus go to Nain? |
Nain is ~15miles SW of Galilee and 7 miles SE of Nazareth. No reason is given for
his going there, but it was sure to be at the direction of his Father. Jn 519,20 (Same reason that he suddenly went to Tyre and Sidon. Math 1521-28). At Nain he arrived exactly as a funeral was about to bury a widow's only son. Jesus said to her, "Don't cry." What an extraordinary instruction! But Jesus knew exactly was he was doing. He then gave an even more surprising command, "Young man, I say to you, get up!" The dead man sat up and began to talk, and Jesus gave him back to his mother. This was why he went to Nain. Power and compassion are rarely seen together especially to this degree. It would be repeated when Jesus raised Lazarus, the brother of Mary and Martha. Jn 111-44 And also when he raised the only daughter of Jairus. Lu 840-56 Such is the kindness of our God and Saviour, and soon to be on earth, our King! |
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| Lu 718-`30 John Baptist - no greater prophet! |
Prison can depress even the strongest. John sends messengers to Jesus with
question: "Are you the one who was to come, or should we expect someone else?" In a very Jewish response Jesus demonstrates his answer. He healed, restored sight and delivered many. Then he sent back the messengers saying, "Report to John what you have seen and heard: The blind receive sight, the lame walk, those who have leprosy are cured, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the good news is preached to the poor. Blessed is the man who does not fall away on account of me." John would recognise the quote from Is 2918,19 355,6 Then Jesus asked the crowd, "What did you go out into the desert to see? ... a prophet? Yes, I tell you, and more than a prophet. This is the one about whom it is written: " 'I will send my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way before you.' I tell you, among those born of women there is no one greater than John; yet the one who is least in the kingdom of God is greater than he." The people had heard John, the great herald of the Redeemer's arrival. But the Pharisees and experts in the law rejected God's purpose for themselves, because they had not been baptized by John. Lord, please grant that we may have a willing spirit that will always rejoice in your truth, even if/when the circumstances of life become hard. And we remember those who are severely persecuted today because they love you. |
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| Lu 731-35 The people of this generation? |
Having just spoken about John Baptist, Jesus asks about this generation. What is it like? How responsive is this generation to such a vital revelation - the coming to his creation of the Son of God? They were like children playing 'weddings and funerals'. 'We played the flute for you, and you did not dance; we sang a dirge, and you did not cry.' Just a game. Nothing serious. John hated parties, Jesus loved being with tax collectors and sinners. How sad when a critical generation misses such a divine opportunity. Luke then tells us about a woman who did respond, who rejoiced that the Saviour had come. (chronologically the event probably happened 3 years later) |
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| Lu 736-50 Why did this lady do such a beautiful thing? What did Simon do? |
She had lived a sinful life. She confessed this and brought her profit as an
offering and anointed Jesus. 1. She no longer practised her illicit trade. 2. She
was grateful to God who no longer held it against her. Therefore, I tell you, her
many sins have been forgiven. So she poured out her gratitude to God. Simon confessed nothing, was not forgiven and had no reason to be grateful. But he was interested in Jesus and it may be that this incident changed his life - it is not recorded. The other guests began to say among themselves, "Who is this who even forgives sins?" There is only one true and eternal answer; Jesus Christ, our Redeemer. And he told her, "Your faith has saved you; go in peace." Matthew records an additional treasure: She has done a beautiful thing to me. ... I tell you the truth, wherever this gospel is preached throughout the world, what she has done will also be told, in memory of her. Math 2610,13 If only all men would respond to Jesus as beautifully as this lady did. |
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| Lu 81-15 Who understands parables? Who will hear the Word of God, retain and obey it? |
This parable of the Sower and 4 soils is a simple farming story. But who has ears to hear it? Having listened to it, how many go home determined to read the Word of God, pray earnestly and obey it? If it doesn't have this effect, then we have not 'heard' it. And God's Word is wasted. On the path it is trodden, crushed, eaten by birds, other beliefs. On the rocks, no roots, no urgency, careless, no real hunger for God. Among thorns, too many distractions, worries, no time, wrong priorities. In good ground, it is nourished, watered, protected, treasured and obeyed. How much do we value the Word of God? Is it top of the list? The most vital? Sweeter than honey? Treasured more than gold? If it is then God will be pleased to share his secrets about himself and the kingdom of heaven. Our lives will be fruitful and nourishing. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Lu 816-18 Consider carefully how you listen. |
A lamp is lit to expose all in the darkness. So is the Word of God. Therefore consider carefully how you listen. Whoever has will be given more; whoever does not have, even what he thinks he has will be taken from him. Listen with honesty and humility; an attitude that earnestly wants to learn. Listen with positive expectation, not prejudging the speaker. Listen, learn and examine - test what is heard with Scripture, not men's ideas. |
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| Lu 819-21 Close relatives? |
"My mother and brothers are those who hear God's word and put it into
practice." Jesus uses this little incident to show how much he appreciates believers. |
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| Lu 822-25 Even the wind and waves obey Jesus! |
Be still, my soul: the wind and waves still know His voice who ruled them while he dwelt below. |
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| Lu 826-39 Why the Gerasenes? |
Same reason as to Nain and to Sidon - Father knew the need there, so Jesus went. Fishermen took him across Galilee to meet a demon possessed man, where he commanded 'Legion' to leave. They left and caused pigs to commit 'suicide'. This is a favourite ploy of Satan. The unnamed man was now clothed and right mind. The fearful Gerasenes asked Jesus to leave (they had lost a large herd of pigs). Jesus told the man to "Return home and tell how much God has done for you." Today many maniacs and terrorists are controlled by demons and need the same deliverance by the Lord. |
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| Lu 840-56 They laughed at him. How foolish! |
At times Jesus was popular in Galilee, why? NHS is good, but Jesus is far better. The woman with a 12 year haemorrhage was instantly healed by touching the edge of his cloak. (Math 920). Tassels to remind Jews of the Law and God who delivered them out of Egypt. Num 1537-41 Exd 1526 Jesus said she was healed 'by faith'. He asked who touched him to give her God's assurance and called her 'Daughter'. The crowd so delayed Jesus that Jairus' daughter died. But as with Lazarus, the delay was only for the glory of God. They laughed at Jesus when he told them she was only sleeping. He commanded life to return to her. He 'healed' her because of his compassion; not to enhance his reputation. |
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| Lu 91-9 Herod tries to see Jesus - and fails. |
Jesus sent out the 12 having given them power to heal, deliver and preach the
Gospel. Herod was perplexed. He had beheaded John, so who was this Jesus? It would be a couple of years later that Pilate sent Jesus to Herod. But he still did not know who Jesus was , and certainly not why he came! |
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| Lu 910-17 Miracle unnoticed until nearly over. |
Jesus healed and taught most of the day - but not told what he taught. When did the disciples and then the crowd notice that the bread and fish were multiplied at least 2,000 fold? John hints that the crowd didn't notice until they had finished eating. After the people saw the miraculous sign that Jesus did, they began to say ... Jn 614 They didn't appreciate that there were only 5 loaves and 2 fish to start with. Were they so busy discussing what Jesus had taught them? Assuming each had two loaf buns and total crowd was 10,000. Jesus supplied the bread and fish as cooked. Each of the disciples picked up 1 basket of scraps. John also tells us that Jesus, knowing that they intended to come and make him king by force, withdrew again to a mountain by himself. He had presumably told the disciples to go back across the lake by boat. (that's what they did anyway). |
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| Lu 918-27 "Who do you say I am?" |
The first question about Jesus is who was he? The next and vital question is 'Why
he came?' The crowds who said he was Elijah or one of the prophets were wrong.
Jesus was far more than a prophet - It was he who sent all the prophets! Jesus was
the one whom the prophets spoke about. Peter was right; he said "The Christ of
God". But for nearly everyone Christ = Messiah, King; not Saviour, the One who
would be pierced for our transgressions and on whom our iniquity would be laid.
Is 53. He then told them that he would have to suffer, be rejected, killed and
resurrected! But they did not believe him Math 1622 - not yet. But they would
later. Lu 2445,46 Jesus definitely wanted to avoid being made King. Jesus told his disciples that they would have deny themselves, take up his cross, not be ashamed of him or his words, and some would die - but then they would see the Kingdom of God; for ever! The suffering sacrifice of the Son of God was no accident, it was the much prophesied plan of God. Is 53. Today many expect Jesus to return as King - He will do so. But he will also come to bring judgement upon the wicked in the Great Tribulation and to slay the satanic Beast and the False Prophet. Rev 17-19. This will surprise many, just as the Cross surprised many 2,000 years ago. Jesus told them at least 16 times that he had to suffer and die for our sin. See website 'Jesus had to Suffer'. |
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| Lu 928-36 While praying, Jesus talks with the Law and the Prophets. |
When Jesus went up the mountain to pray, was he expecting to meet Moses and
Elijah, or was he as surprised as the 3 disciples he had taken with him? We do not know what was said, but are told what they talked about - his departure! The Cross. As above, 8 days earlier, it was all about why he came. The disciples took no part in this conversation; they were sleeping and only woke to see them leaving. They saw the three in glorious splendour; the light emitted from them, rather than being reflected. Ps 1042 Is my view of God too small? They recognise who they were. How? Were they introduced? Jesus tells Peter that he didn't know what he was asking when he suggested building 3 tabernacles. From the enveloping cloud God spoke, "This is my Son, whom I have chosen; listen to him." (see also Deut 1815) Indeed. It is so important how we listen; we need to hear! (see Lu 816-18) May we truly learn how Jesus is the fulfilment of the Law and the Prophets; what he had to do to make possible the salvation of men. Peter was a great apostle and an ordinary man. He made inspired statements of truth as well as some rather silly ones. But he is not shy in confessing his faults. Jesus told them not to tell anyone about this event until after the resurrection. They were not yet able to see the significance of this until later. e.g. In Mark disciples asked why do Scribes say Elijah must come before Messiah (when he has already come)? Jesus tells them Elijah has come. (= John Baptist. Math 1111-15 1711-13) But what happened to the restoring all things ? The restoring was only after suffering and death of John. And it would be the same with Jesus the Messiah. He must first suffer and die for our sins. The disciples did not understand this saying, and were afraid to ask Him. Mk 932 Today the church readily talks about the love of God and even about his suffering, but few preach about why Jesus had to suffer. That requires recognition of our sin, its consequence, the need to repent and believe that only Christ crucified can be its propitiation. 1Jn 22 410 |
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| Lu 937-45 Why were disciples unable to cast out this demon? |
"O unbelieving and perverse generation," Jesus replied, "how long shall I stay
with you and put up with you? Bring your son here." Lu 941 "This kind cannot be driven out by anything but prayer and fasting." Mk 929 "Because you have so little faith. I tell you the truth, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.'" Math 1720,21 After Jesus rebuked the demon and healed the boy, he says to his disciples: "Listen carefully to what I am about to tell you: The Son of Man is going to be betrayed into the hands of men." But they did not understand what this meant. See previous 2 sections. |
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| Lu 946-62 Opposition in 3 forms: 1. Who is the greatest? 2. Samaritans. 3. The cost of following Jesus. |
All Christianity will be opposed directly or indirectly by Satan. He so hates us. Power, the desire to be boss, is sadly very common, even in the church. Much leadership training encourages this, together with pride. But both will always kill righteousness and truth. Samaritan opposition was the natural reaction to being despised by most Jews. Jesus refused to encourage this and strongly resisted any retaliation. Following Jesus is not an easy way; it is all or nothing. Here are 3 examples of men who could not say, "I surrender all." Today the bar is often lowered by leaders seeking popularity, who dare not make the Christian life too challenging. O Lord, please prevent me from the love of ease, of settling for second best, but may my determination always be 'My utmost for his highest'. |
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| Lu 101-16 72 sent out - peace or war? No compromising middle ground. |
Many think the ministry of Jesus was all peace - but it wasn't. "Do not think that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I have not come to bring peace, but a sword." Math 1034 And here he instructs the 72 to wipe off the dust that sticks to your feet if a town will not accept you on account of the Kingdom of God. "Woe unto you Korazin ... Bethsaida ... Capernaum," cried Jesus. "He who listens to you listens to me; he who rejects you rejects me; but he who rejects me rejects him who sent me." And those who reject Almighty God will be judged even more than Sodom! The truth of such unpopular judgement must be set alongside the amazing compassion, love, grace and mercy of God. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Lu 1017-24 What gives heaven the most joy? |
The 72 clearly had a successful mission; they returned with joy and said, "Lord,
even the demons submit to us in your name." Jesus was pleased too. "I saw
Satan fall like lightning from heaven. ... However, do not rejoice that the spirits
submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven." While glad,
Jesus was far more pleased with salvation than with miracles, which can
sometimes even be satanic. Act 89-25 Discernment in this is vital. In the last days
it will become even more so. See Rev 133,13,14 1920 also Math 1239 164 Jesus was most thrilled that the Holy Spirit was giving them revelation of the truth. "Blessed are the eyes that see what you see. For I tell you that many prophets and kings wanted to see what you see but did not see it, and to hear what you hear but did not hear it." They saw the day of Jesus Christ. Jn 856 |
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| Lu 1025-37 Why did the expert in the law ask about eternal life? |
It wasn't because he was seeking eternal life; he wanted to test Jesus. In typically Jewish fashion Jesus asks him a question, "What is written in the Law?" To which he gave a very good answer. "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind; and, Love your neighbour as yourself." Deut 65 Lev 1819 So Jesus just said, "Do this and you will live." The expert didn't then confess he had tried and failed to do this, so needed a change of heart. He just asked a technical question, "Who is my neighbour? So Jesus in another typically Jewish way answered by telling a story. The well known story of the 'Good Samaritan'. At the end he asked a simple question, "Which of these three do you think was a neighbour 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." The Son of God gives us a 'master class' in how to answer a trick question. |
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| Lu 1038-42 How many are distracted from what is best? |
Mary sat at the Lord's feet listening to what he said. Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. Martha was not wrong to be preparing a meal; but Mary needed to hear what Jesus was telling her. So for her it was better. Making the right priorities in life is of vital importance. Many find consistent Bible reading, praying and application of it a challenge. |
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| Lu 111-13 The importance of Prayer. |
Jesus then told a parable with two
lessons: The highest value coin in life has two sides: Reading the Scriptures and Prayer. i.e. Almighty God speaking to us and our speaking to God. The Lord's prayer is not so much the exact word to be oft repeated in prayer, but is a paradigm, to show us how to pray. 1. We are addressing Almighty God as our Father. 2. 'Hallowed' or honoured be his name always. 3. Earnest, consistent desire for the righteous Kingdom of God on earth. 4. For God to enable the provision of the normal physical needs of life. 5. We are all in need of forgiveness. Dr Lloyd-Jones, the greatest 20th C. preacher, 2 days before he died in 1981, said, "Remember this, I am only a forgiven sinner."
Earnest prayer often needs to be persistent (not answered immediately Dan
1013); perhaps to reinforce the importance of the request. |
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| Lu 1114-28 How are demons cast out? Who was blessed? |
If the demons were cast out by Beelzebub then Satan is defeating himself! But
Jesus cast them out by the finger of God. This is logic even in the spiritual realm. This miracle should have enabled the people to see that the kingdom of God is near. One woman thought it was the mother who nursed Jesus who was blessed. Mary was indeed blessed and privileged to nurse him. But Jesus said, "Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it." To hear, trust and obey is even more blessed. |
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| Lu 1129-36 What brings faith, light and truth to men? |
Miracles of healing and casting out demons do not of themselves bring revelation
or regeneration or forgiveness. "This is a wicked generation. It asks for a
miraculous sign, but none will be given it except the sign of Jonah." What was
the sign of Jonah? He was resurrected after 3 days in a huge fish. See Math 1240 The factual resurrection of Jesus would prove his identity and purpose in coming. But they would have to wait for that. As also Jn 218-22 Unlike the men of Nineveh, few repented at the preaching of Jesus or as a result of seeing the miracles. Jesus accurately called it a 'wicked generation'. So is UK today, when even much of the church distorts, ignores or challenges the truth of God's Word. Jesus longed for all men to be filled with light, with truth instead of darkness. But this can only be following revelation, repentance and believing that Jesus had to come and bear the punishment for my sin. |
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| Lu 1137 - 123 When is criticism justified and when should it be avoided? |
Jesus accepted an invitation to eat with a Pharisee who was surprised he didn't
wash before the meal. So Jesus directed their attention to what really matters: 1. You Pharisees clean the outside of the cup and dish, but inside you are full of greed and wickedness. ... give what is inside (the dish) to the poor, and everything will be clean for you. 2. You give God a tenth of your mint, rue and all other kinds of garden herbs, but you neglect justice and the love of God. 3. You love the most important seats in the synagogues and greetings in the marketplaces. 4. You are like unmarked graves, which men walk over without knowing it. 5. You load people down with burdens they can hardly carry, and you yourselves will not lift one finger to help them. 6. You build tombs for the prophets, and it was your forefathers who killed them. ... Therefore this generation will be held responsible for the blood of all the prophets that has been shed since the beginning of the world. 7. You have taken away the key to knowledge. You yourselves have not entered, and you have hindered those who were entering. To say that the Pharisees didn't like these truths is an understatement. They began to oppose him fiercely and to besiege him with questions, waiting to catch him in something he might say. They could have admitted their faults and repented, but they chose not to - and would pay the terrible consequence. On another occasion towards the end of his ministry Jesus gave 7 woes to the Pharisees warning them that God saw them as, "Your snakes! You brood of vipers! Hypocrites ." Math 23 He concludes, not so much with anger, but with compassion and longing, "O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, you who kill the prophets and stone those sent to you, how often I have longed to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, but you were not willing. Look, your house is left to you desolate." Math 2337,38 How do we respond to criticism and warnings? Do we hear and learn or retaliate? Jesus warned the large crowd: "Be on your guard against the yeast of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy. There is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed." Hypocrisy is fundamentally about concealing the truth, pretense. |
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| Lu 124-12 "I will show you whom you should fear." |
It is well known that 'the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.' Prov 910 Jesus now gives another and rarely read reason: Fear him who, after the killing of the body, has power to throw you into hell. Yes, I tell you, fear him. And the wise man takes heed to this warning and knows the good care of Almighty God. To such Jesus assures us the Holy Spirit will teach us what to say when persecuted. To him the Lord also says, Don't be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows. He also warns us that he who disowns me before men will be disowned before the angels of God. And anyone who blasphemes against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven. Peter disowned his Lord and was forgiven. So what does it mean to blaspheme against the Holy Spirit? Satan has often used this verse to condemn a sensitive soul. If God enables repentance then clearly he will also forgive. The problem here is connected with Heb 64-6 where there is no repentance and having known the Holy Spirit revealed truth, we deliberately choose to deny it. To such God will not grant forgiveness. |
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| Lu 1213-34 A man's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions. Where is our treasure? |
Jesus said, "Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed." This was prompted by a man asking Jesus to settle a will dispute. Jesus then told a story about a man who built bigger barns to store the increased yield on his farm and then said to himself, 'Take life easy; eat, drink and be merry.' But God said to him, 'You fool! This very night your life will be demanded from you. Then who will get what you have prepared for yourself?' This is how it will be with anyone who stores up things for himself but is not rich toward God. It would be far, far better to be called a good and faithful servant. Self-indulgence is a common temptation. Jesus then concludes with a world shattering instruction: O you of little faith! And do not set your heart on what you will eat or drink; do not worry about it. For the pagan world runs after all such things, and your Father knows that you need them. But seek his kingdom, and these things will be given to you as well. Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has been pleased to give you the kingdom. Sell your possessions and give to the poor. Provide purses for yourselves that will not wear out, a treasure in heaven that will not be exhausted, where no thief comes near and no moth destroys. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. |
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| Lu 1235-59 What is important in the present and future days? |
Today - Watchfulness. "You also must be ready, because the Son of Man will
come at an hour when you do not expect him." Awaiting the future when Master seems to be delayed - We must remain ready for his coming (return). From the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked. Then Jesus surprised them all by saying, "I have come to bring fire on the earth ... I have a baptism to undergo, and how distressed I am until it is completed! Do you think I came to bring peace on earth? No, I tell you, but division. ..." The Gospel will divide families and nations. While we are instructed to 'love our enemies', there will be persecution. We must also maintain the difference between good and evil, between truth and deception. Jesus loves all he has created, but interfaith and ecumenical ideals are evil deceptions. It remain true that only by repentance and faith in Christ crucified can a man enter heaven. i.e. by being 'born again. Today there is a dire need to discern the truth. Jesus said, "Hypocrites! You know how to interpret the appearance of the earth and the sky. How is it that you don't know how to interpret this present time?" Satan knows that his time is short and so is now desperately trying to seduce all God's people. How can I be ready? How can I best use the remaining days? |
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| Lu 131-9 1. Can sin be graduated? 2. Are disasters caused by sin? |
In this short incident Jesus makes it clear that the Galileans and the people in
Siloam were not worse sinners than their neighbours; but that all men are sinners. "Do you think they were more guilty than all the others living in Jerusalem? I tell you, no! But unless you repent, you too will all perish." This truth is commonly forgotten by men with the forlorn hope who say that if there is a heaven, they will be ok because they have done their best and at least they're not guilty of murder! Jesus then tells a story of God's patient grace - about an unfruitful figtree (no repentance) that was given extra manure and a further year to bear fruit. Today is still a day of opportunity; though soon it may be too late even to repent. |
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| Lu 1310-17 Healing on the Sabbath! |
Jesus didn't arrange for a healing meeting on the Sabbath, he happened to be
there when a woman crippled for 18 years was also present. Why did his critics complain? Healing was considered 'work'. But not by God! Torah/Tanakh gives 4th Commandment in Exd 208-11 The Talmud and Mishnah (the written 'Oral Law') is over 6,000 pages of 'law' which include some 1,500 rules concerning the Sabbath. Such is the result of zealous folly. It was this 'oral law' which the religious leaders expected Jesus to obey. Jesus never broke any of God's Commandments. He had compassion and power to heal the woman, so he did. His opponents were humiliated, but the people were delighted. |
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| Lu 1318-21 The Kingdom of God. |
It is like a mustard seed, which a man took and planted in his garden. It grew and
became a tree, and the birds of the air perched in its branches. It will grow and become fruitful. It is like yeast that a woman took and mixed into a large amount of flour until it worked all through the dough. One day it will spread throughout the world. Lord, please come quickly! |
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| Lu 1322-30 "Lord, are only a few people going to be saved?" |
Jesus said, "Many ... will try to enter and will not be able to." Why not? Because the door is narrow. They were aware of the Patriarchs and prophets, but refused to heed their warnings, and thus remained evildoers. Also Math 712-27 The narrow door requires repentance, belief and obedience. It is an 'all or nothing' choice. People will come from east and west and north and south, and will take their places at the feast in the kingdom of God. (Gentiles) |
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| Lu 1331-35 "O Jerusalem, Jerusalem ..." |
A heart-cry from the Son of God. See Jn 111 He came to his own, but his own did
not receive him. And also Lu 1941-45. Jesus was warned by the Pharisees to go
elsewhere as even Herod wanted to kill him. But Jesus would not be put off from
going to Jerusalem - where he knew he had to die. "O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, you who kill the prophets and stone those sent to you, how often I have longed to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, but you were not willing!" Jerusalem would be destroyed 40 years later, but most of those who rejected him would never receive eternal life. "Look, your house is left to you desolate," Jesus told them. Some however would be saved, for he adds, "Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord." |
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| Lu 141-24 Jesus ate with Pharisees as well as with tax-collectors and sinners. |
Unlike when Jesus dined with Simon ( Lu 736-50), on this occasion there were
several other Pharisees and Scribes. This was on a Sabbath. And they also
purposely (?) included a man with dropsy in front of him. They 'carefully
watched' what Jesus would do. It was a test, not an inquiry. Aware of this, he
asked them if it was lawful to heal on the Sabbath. They did not reply. So Jesus
healed him. Then he asked them another question: "If one of you has a son or an
ox that falls into a well on the Sabbath day, will you not immediately pull him
out?" And they had nothing to say. Jesus also noticed how the guests picked the places of honour at the table, so he told them a parable which concluded: "Everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted." He also told them that they should not invite just the 'rich and famous' but to invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind, and you will be blessed. They were obviously much more concerned with their current reputation than with eternity and being blessed by Almighty God. When one of those at the table with him heard this, he said to Jesus, "Blessed is the man who will eat at the feast in the kingdom of God." This sounds good, but Jesus then told them a story about a man who prepared a banquet. He sent out the invitations but amazingly they all made excuses not to come. The first said, 'I have just bought a field, and I must go and see it. Please excuse me.' Another said, 'I have just bought five yoke of oxen, and I'm on my way to try them out. Please excuse me.' "Still another said, 'I just got married, so I can't come.' Whoever heard of a Jew who would buy a anything without seeing it first?! If married, then bring your new wife too. So the invitations were sent out to the poor and the sick. But then came the devastating conclusion: "I tell you, not one of those men who were invited will get a taste of my banquet." As before the Pharisees had nothing to say. At least not while Jesus was with them. But I expect they never forgot this meal, even if they did not repent. |
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| Lu 1425-35 What is the cost of discipleship? |
Some 'inclusive' churches today say there is no cost; just come and follow Jesus. But Jesus teaches there is a cost, and that it is sometimes a very high cost. 1. Jesus must come first, even if it means family rejection and hatred. 2. Every disciple must be willing to carry his cross - whatever it may be. Before becoming a disciple everyone must count the cost. He must say, "I'd rather have Jesus than silver or gold ..." - and mean it!
Jesus is not trying to build a large following by offering happiness and freedom,
but to prepare a committed team who will be willing to face anything for the
Kingdom of God - even death, maybe a lingering death! Jesus does not want
complacent followers. We must be willing to give up everything, not just things,
but reputation, family, friends and my sin! |
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| Lu 151-32 Lost and Found. How? |
In spite of the vast chaos around the world today, proud man refuses to admit
that he is 'lost' and has no effective answers. But our gracious God has answers! He goes out to find the 'lost sheep', the 'lost coin' and welcomes the 'lost son'. In each story "There is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents." In the first two stories the shepherd and the woman have to search diligently for the lost sheep and lost coin. Almighty God values his creation very highly. In the third story the father allows his wayward son to leave home, and every day longs for his return. But he has to wait until the son realises his folly and returns home - as a servant! In each case heaven rejoices when a sinner repents, but first he has to plead for mercy and believe God's gracious offer of forgiveness. The third story has a further twist. The father also has an elder son who never leaves home, though he wanted to have his own way. He did not rejoice when the wayward son was welcomed home. He also needed to repent - like the Pharisees. We are not told if the 'lost' elder son was 'found'. |
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| Lu 161-15 You cannot serve both God and money |
Jesus told the parable of the 'shrewd manager' in which the master surprisingly
commended his dishonest manager. He ends it with: "Whoever can be trusted
with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very
little will also be dishonest with much. So if you have not been trustworthy in
handling worldly wealth, who will trust you with true riches?" "No servant can serve two masters. ... You cannot serve both God and Money." The Pharisees sneered at this statement. Do we in UK also do so today? So Jesus adds: "What is highly valued among men is detestable in God's sight." Which do I consistently value most, righteousness or wealth? Where your treasure is there will your heart be also. Remember it is not what I give but what I keep that reveals the heart. 57 years ago I prayed, "Lord Jesus I have promised to serve you to the end ..." May his grace enable me to keep this expression of gratitude. |
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| Lu 1619-31 Does being rich make a man content without God? |
Why did the poor man Lazarus finish in heaven, and the rich man in hell? Brownlow North wrote that it was because the rich man was content without God. (The Rich Man and Lazarus). This is why Jesus said that it was hard for a rich man to enter the Kingdom of heaven - but not impossible in the grace of God. The story confirms there is a great chasm fixed between heaven and hell. The rich man in torment pleaded for Lazarus to rise and warn his rich brothers. "Abraham replied, 'They have Moses and the Prophets; let them listen to them.' " 'No, father Abraham,' he said, 'but if someone from the dead goes to them, they will repent.' "He said to him, 'If they do not listen to Moses and the Prophets, they will not be convinced even if someone rises from the dead.' " In proof of this, when Jesus rose from the dead the religious leaders did not heed the warnings of Almighty God. They did not either seek or believe the truth that Moses, the prophets and Jesus all proclaimed. They remained proud, self-satisfied hypocrites! They stubbornly refused to repent. What a story! |
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| Lu 171-10 Sin and forgiveness. |
Jesus warns us, "Things that cause people to sin are bound to come, but woe to
that person through whom they come. ... So watch yourselves." He continues, "If your brother sins, rebuke him, and if he repents, forgive him." Almighty God does not forgive the unrepentant. Does he expect us to do so? The one sinned against must not become proud. So you also, when you have done everything you were told to do, should say, 'We are unworthy servants; we have only done our duty.' |
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| Lu1711-19 Why was only one grateful to Jesus? |
All 10 were cleansed as they went to show the priests who would confirm it. their 'cleansing' would include healing of all their disfigurements. Jesus commended this Samaritan 'foreigner' who wanted to praise God. The other nine must have been glad; but it seems they lacked gratitude. Why |
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| Lu 1720-37 Pharisees asked Jesus when Kingdom of God would come. Many others ask this question too! |
Jesus replied: 1. "The kingdom of God does not come with your careful observation, ... because the kingdom of God is within you." 2. His coming will be like the lightning, which flashes and lights up the sky. 3. It will be Just as it was in the days of Noah ... and in the days of Lot. a. Unexpected. Everyone just eating and drinking - normal life. b. The Lord destroyed them all (only a few saved) in judgement (Tribulation). c. Whoever tries to keep his life will lose it. Only faith in Jesus can save us. One will be taken and the other left. 4. But first he (Jesus) must suffer many things and be rejected by this generation. Else none can be saved/taken home. 5. Where? Wrong question! It will all be disastrously obvious. Watch the vultures! They will reveal who are dead and face only judgement. Conclusion? We all need to be ready - waiting expectantly for his coming. |
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| Lu 181-8 Persistent prayer |
God's plans are often very different from our expectations. Is 558 God will always do what is righteous and just. God's timing is also different. We need patience and trust. God knows best! Conclusion of parable: "will not God bring about justice for his chosen ones, who cry out to him day and night? Will he keep putting them off? I tell you, he will see that they get justice, and quickly. However, when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on the earth?" Almighty God will not be slow to answer; his answer and his timing will be perfect. It should be noted that Jesus told this parable just after the previous question about when the Kingdom of God would come. Jesus here implies that there will be a time interval between his leaving this earth and his return. During this time, do not lose heart, pray persistently and earnestly, trusting God's truth. 1. Offering my desires to God and trusting him. Ps 628 2. Surrendering my will to God and making it his will. 3. Entering a conversation with God; listening as well as speaking. 4. Practising the presence of God - all day! 5. Experience the peace of God and the challenge of God! There is one Mediator between God and men, the Man Christ Jesus. 1Tim 25 Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need. Heb 416 The unjust judge cared nothing about the plaintiff below or for God above. Don't let our prayer be so selfish or careless. |
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| Lu 189-14 Pride or mercy; delusion or truth Pharisee or Tax collector Unsaved or redeemed |
Pharisee: prayed about himself: 'God, I thank you that I am not like other men–robbers, evildoers, adulterers–or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week and give a tenth of all I get.' Tax collector: would not even look up to heaven, but beat his breast and said, 'God, have mercy on me, a sinner.' He went home justified before God. Jesus concludes parable: "everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted." |
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| Lu 1815-17 Time for children |
Jesus did not consider it a waste of time for people to bring their babies to have
him just touch them. But the disciples did, until he corrected them. "I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it." How does a child receive the Kingdom? They naturally believe and trust what their parents tell them - or they used to! This is an awesome responsibility for all parents. |
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| Lu 1818-30 What must I do to inherit eternal life? |
A most vital question that all men need to ask. The answer is surprising! "Come, all you who are thirsty, come to the waters; and you who have no money, come, buy and eat! Come, buy wine and milk without money and without cost. Why spend money on what is not bread, and your labour on what does not satisfy? Listen, listen to me, and eat what is good, and your soul will delight in the richest of fare. Give ear and come to me; hear me, that your soul may live. I will make an everlasting covenant with you. Is 551-3 Money cannot buy eternal life. There is nothing we can do to earn our salvation except to repent, believe and trust in Jesus as our Redeemer. But how did Jesus answer the question for this rich ruler? First he established who the 'good teacher' was. Only God is good. "You know the commandments ..." Jesus did not dispute the rulers' claim to have kept them all from his youth. But he saw what was missing and told him: "You still lack one thing. Sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me." This was a 'bulls eye'. The ruler wanted to keep his riches, they were his security, his ability to be independent. They were more important to him than Almighty God and the kingdom of heaven. They were both very sad. But it did not prevent Jesus from telling him the truth, "How hard it is for the rich to enter the kingdom of God!" It is only by the grace and revelation of God that this is possible. No man is the poorer for giving all he has; eternal life and the forgiveness of God is of far greater value and security. |
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| Lu 1831-34 Resistance to believe/understand seemingly bad news |
Jesus took the Twelve aside and told them, "We are going up to Jerusalem, and
everything that is written by the prophets about the Son of Man will be fulfilled.
He will be handed over to the Gentiles. They will mock him, insult him, spit on
him, flog him and kill him. On the third day he will rise again." This didn't seem like good news, so they were reluctant to accept it. But Jesus always spoke the truth. Later they would understand when the Holy Spirit revealed it. Lu 2445 |
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| Lu 1835-43 Priorities |
The crowd wasn't interested in the noisy blind beggar; they had a different
agenda. But Jesus was interested. He commanded him to come near, asked him
what he wanted and immediately healed him. Then the fickle crowd praised God. Dr Luke tells us of many incidents of healing. |
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| Lu 191-26 Zacchaeus, short but also 'tall'
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Almighty God is not a 'hard man'. |
Zacchaeus was determined, wealthy, ingenious, lost - and found! Jesus was obviously delighted to be welcomed at his house, his honest approach to sin and desire to share and make recompense. "Today salvation has come to this house, because this man, too, is a son of Abraham. For the Son of Man came to seek and to save what was lost" must have been music to his ears. Jesus was so pleased to enlighten this searching soul and enable him to stand 'tall'. Why did so many people criticise Jesus? He went on to tell them a parable to those who supposed the kingdom of God was to appear immediately. Surprisingly it is more about our stewardship of the Gospel than of money, time or talents. A king gave each of the 10 servants a mina (100 days wages). He entrusted each with the Gospel of truth and a commission to take it into all the world. Then he went on a long journey for some 2,000 years. Part 1. His subjects didn't want him to be their king; but he remained King. This perfectly describes the world all the time before his planned return. Part 2. The trustworthy servants earned more for their Master. They earnestly sought more people to be disciples. Note they did not claim that their work had achieved this, but 'your mina' did. It was the Word of God that had brought revelation and salvation to others. But one did nothing with the mina; it did not benefit either himself or anyone else. His Bible remained gathering dust on a bookshelf! He thought the King was a 'hard man', who expected everything for nothing. The Law is impossible to keep. So he just gave the king back his money when he returned, he hadn't even put it on deposit. He put a zero valuation upon God's gracious salvation. The King was angry and justly destroyed him. See in parable of 10 virgins, 5 were foolish pretenders and shut out. Also 2 Tim 35 Conclusion? We are to use whatever God has entrusted us with in his world to further his kingdom. "I tell you that to everyone who has, more will be given, but as for the one who has nothing, even what he has will be taken away." |
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| Lu 1928-44 Jesus enters Jerusalem |
He knew this was to be a very special occasion; his last entry than would end in crucifixion! It was all well prepared. He sent 2 disciples ahead to get a young donkey (never before ridden). The crowd threw their cloaks on the ground ahead of the donkey that Jesus was riding and praised God saying, "Blessed is the King who comes in the name of the Lord! Peace in heaven and glory in the highest!" Some Pharisees did not like this so Jesus told them, "I tell you, if these were silent, the very stones would cry out."
But as they came over the hill near the Mt of Olives and looked down on Jerusalem, Jesus stopped and wept! Everyone was more than a little surprised. They had no idea what was about to happen in the next week (crucifixion) and in about 40 years time (destruction of Jerusalem and the Temple). So Jesus told them, with tears running down his face, "Would that you, even you, had known on this day the things that make for peace! But now they are hidden from your eyes. For the days will come upon you, when your enemies will set up a barricade around you and surround you and hem you in on every side and tear you down to the ground, you and your children within you. And they will not leave one stone upon another in you, because you did not know the time of your visitation."
Only later would they understand that Jesus, the Son of God, was willing to pay the ultimate price to gain the forgiveness of our sins. Only in this way was his entry 'Triumphal'. But the day will come when he who is rightly called 'Faithful and True', the 'Word of God', the 'King of kings and Lord of lords', will enter Jerusalem riding a white horse having defeated the satanic Beast and his winger, the False Prophet, who had deceived mankind. He threw them into the fiery lake of burning sulphur - for ever! Rev 1911-21 This was a most prophetic day - even the Son of God entering on a donkey was prophesied. Behold, your king is coming to you; righteous and having salvation is he, humble and mounted on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey. Zech 99 |
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| Lu 1945-48 House of Prayer or den of robbers? |
Jesus longed for this prophecy to be fulfilled and was angered by Temple trade. Matthew, Mark and John detail the money traders and sheep and dove sellers, whose objective was personal enrichment, not righteousness. They also tell how Jesus made a whip to drive them out. Many 'modern' Christians do not see Almighty God as ever being angry about anything. This event shows that he was then, and still can be. The leaders reaction? They sought to kill him. Soon, the events of the Great Tribulation will witness the severe anger of God. Perhaps this is why Revelation is probably the least understood book in the Bible. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Lu 201-8 "By what authority?" |
Today independence is often seen as above authority, which is frequently dishonoured and criticised. Recognised or not, the authority of God will always be supreme. The authority of Jesus (to overthrow the tables of the Temple money changers) was questioned by the religious leaders. In a typically Jewish way Jesus responded by asking them a question: "Was the baptism of John from heaven or from man?" This was not a trick question, but simply that if they were to answer truthfully, then he could go a step further and answer their question that Almighty God was his authority. But they were more politicians than spiritual leaders. They were not concerned about truth, only about what affect their answer would make. So they answered, "they did not know where it came from." Strangely, this was true, they did not know that the baptism of John was from heaven! Therefore Jesus declined to tell them that his authority was also from heaven. These leaders not only refused to admit they could be wrong, and had no humility that sought the truth from God. Their only concern was their reputation and standing among the people - their popularity. Jesus made every endeavour to make their predicament clear; so he continued. He went on to tell the people this parable: |
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| Lu 209-19 Jesus wanted the people and the leaders to know there was a price to pay if they rejected the Son of God. |
He told them a simple parable about tenants who repeatedly rejected the landlord's servants and finally killed his son. When the landlord returned he killed the wicked tenants. The people said, "May this never be!" The story was no casual 'take it or leave it' parable. Jesus looked directly at them and asked, "Then what is the meaning of that which is written: "The stone the builders rejected has become the capstone" ... ? Ps 11822 He was telling them plainly that he would fulfil the prophecy, and they would pay a high price for their folly. The religious leaders showed not a hint of repentance. They merely looked for a way to arrest him immediately, because they knew he had spoken this parable against them. But they were afraid of the people. Tragically they were not afraid of the 'landlord'; they showed no fear of Almighty God who stood before them! How can men be so blind? Sadly, the answer is, very easily. |
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| Lu 2020-40 Two trick questions: |
The religious leaders sent 'diplomatic' spies with what they thought were clever questions to entrap or discredit Jesus. He immediately saw through their duplicity and dealt with both with a brilliance that befits the Son of God. 1. "Is it right for us to pay taxes to Caesar or not?" Reply: "Show me a denarius. Whose portrait and inscription are on it?" "Caesar's," they replied. He said to them, "Then give to Caesar what is Caesar's, and to God what is God's." 2. A Sadducee spy asked: "Moses wrote for us that if a man's brother dies and leaves a wife but no children, the man must marry the widow and have children for his brother. Now there were seven brothers. The first one married a woman and died childless. The second and then the third married her, and in the same way the seven died, leaving no children. Finally, the woman died too. Now then, at the resurrection whose wife will she be, since the seven were married to her?" Simple answer: "The people of this age marry and are given in marriage. But those who are considered worthy of taking part in that age and in the resurrection from the dead will neither marry nor be given in marriage, and they can no longer die; for they are like the angels. They are God's children, since they are children of the resurrection." The spies were astonished by his answer ... and no one dared to ask him any more questions. |
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| Lu 2041-47 Jesus then asks the spies a question: |
"How is it that they say the Christ is the Son of David? David himself declares in the Book of Psalms: 'The Lord said to my Lord: "Sit at my right hand until I make your enemies a footstool for your feet." ' David calls him 'Lord.' How then can he be his son?" As the author, Jesus knew the scriptures far better than they did! He then warns them all, "Beware of the teachers of the law. ..." | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Lu 211-4 A poor widow gave the most ! |
Jesus saw the rich putting their gifts into the temple treasury. He also saw a poor widow put in two very small copper coins. He concluded "this poor widow has put in more than all the others." Not just some of them. It could even mean more than all the other put together! It is not how much we give, but how much we keep that reveals our true heart. Very, very few give all they have to live on. If we do give more, remember it can never earn us any extra 'brownie points'. And do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing. Math 63 |
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| Lu 215-36 Concerning the immediate and the distant future. |
This vital discourse began when disciples admired the Temple stonework. But Jesus knew it would shortly be totally destroyed (40 years) - ordered by God! Will there be any signs? What are they? First most important warning and sign: "Watch out that you are not deceived. For many will come in my name, claiming, 'I am he,' and, 'The time is near.' Do not follow them." Many arose then and have continued down the ages: Roman Popes, Mohamad (Islam ~600AD) , Joseph Smith (Mormons ~1830), Charles Russell (JW's ~1870), the Beast and his False Prophet (Rev 13, coming soon). Millions have, and will be, deceived by these and others in spite of this warning by Jesus. They all wrote their own books which add, distort, leave out or totally replace the Word of God. But thankfully Jesus said, "Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away." (v33). It is only in keeping whole-heartedly to the Scriptures that a man will be kept safe from deception. Jesus also warned that there would be war, famine, earthquakes, disease and persecution. During 2018 at least 11 Christians were killed every day. There were 17 earthquakes magnitude >7; the average/year since 1900 is 19. Wars have continued, but in 1919 'flu killed more than all who died in WWI. The one thing that has increased significantly is deception - morally, politically and in the Christian faith. More than 50% of UK and the C of E clergy (including both Archbishops) support homosexuality. Sabbath laws have been largely abandoned. Creation of the universe and all life is scorned and the Evolution theory lie is taught as scientific truth in UK schools. The social media (Facebook, Twitter etc) have demonstrated how easy it is to broadcast 'fake news'. Very few see the EU as fundamentally evil, yet the evidence is clear (design of Parliament building in Strasbourg based upon Babel, blasphemous advert 'Many nations, one voice', statue of Europa (the harlot of Babylon) outside EU building in Brussels and Strasbourg etc). It should not surprise us that the warning about deception by Jesus was accurate. Ecumenical and 'multi faith' popularity has grown, together with inclusivity and Scriptural compromise which endeavours to make church popular instead a necessity for the forgiveness of sin and eternal life. Another important sign of the age is the return of the Jews to their ancient country of Israel. Just over 50% of the worlds Jews now live there and speak the old Hebrew language. The world does not see this as Almighty God fulfilling his 4,000 year old covenant, especially at the United Nations. "Jerusalem will be trampled on by the Gentiles until the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled. There will be signs in the sun, moon and stars. On the earth, nations will be in anguish and perplexity at the roaring and tossing of the sea. Men will faint from terror, apprehensive of what is coming on the world, for the heavenly bodies will be shaken. At that time they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. When these things begin to take place, stand up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near." (v24-28) This discourse about the end is vital if we are to understand the days in which we live and the urgency of being ready for the imminent return of Jesus Christ as King of kings. Math 2436 - 2546 records the 4 parables Jesus told about what men will do while we await his coming. May the church of God wake up and take heed of these gracious warnings and thus be able and obedient to watch and pray. When Jesus had finished saying all these things, he said to his disciples, "As you know, the Passover is two days away–and the Son of Man will be handed over to be crucified." Math 261,2 He had to bring their minds back to the immediate present. |
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| Lu 2137 - 226 Last week in Jerusalem before being crucified. |
Each day Jesus was teaching at the temple, and each evening he went out to spend the night on the hill called the Mount of Olives, and all the people came early in the morning to hear him at the temple. What did he teach / do during these precious days? Luke is silent. John tells us how Jesus raised Lazarus from th dead. All the other gospels record how a forgiven woman anointed Jesus. This very significant because Jesus had to tell the disciples that the expensive ointment was not a waste and she had done such a beautiful thing that it would always be told as being part of the gospel of forgiveness. But Judas was offended. He refused the correction and went to the chief priests to betray Jesus. They were delighted and agreed to give him money. Thus the die was cast. And the plan of God for the Redeemer to pay the price for our sin was about to be fulfilled. Matthew records how the chief priests in plotting to kill Jesus planned, "But not during the Feast," they said, "or there may be a riot among the people." It is Almighty God who decides precisely when such great events are going to take place - at Passover! This is the very fulfilment of this 1,500 year-old feast. And which we now remember with bread and wine. |
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| Lu 227-38 Essene Passover |
The Essenes celebrated Passover a day earlier than the corrupt hierarchy. There is significant evidence that the 'last supper' was celebrated in the Essene guest house. See notes on Jn 131 "When was Passover?" (Use back arrow to return here) The highly significant conclusions are that Jesus was crucified on the Thursday afternoon, the day of Preparation, at exactly the same time that the Jews were killing their Passover lambs. And that he fulfilled the prophecy the Son of Man will be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth. Math 1240 Jesus gave instructions as to exactly where and when to make the preparations. "I have eagerly desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer." It was such a special time in God's calendar. A time that all future generations would focus upon and remember. The bread and the wine; the broken body of Jesus and his blood poured out for our forgiveness and eternal life. He also tells them to look forward to the day when he would return as King: "After taking the cup, he gave thanks and said, "Take this and divide it among you. For I tell you I will not drink again of the fruit of the vine until the kingdom of God comes." Jesus also had to correct their distraction about who was greatest, tell them about the one who would betray him and warn Peter he would 3 times deny even knowing him. The 11 would hear, see and believe, and then go on in the grace and power of God to turn the world upside down. |
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| Lu 2239-46 Jesus prays: disciples slept! |
When Jesus prayed on the Mt of Olives, he was in great anguish. Alone, he knew what was about to happen. Not just the physical agony of crucifixion, but the time of separation from his Father. He earnestly prayed that there might be another way whereby wicked men could be saved, but there was no other way. So he prayed with equal fervent determination that he would fulfill the agreed plan - the required perfect sacrifice. The presence of an angel gave him strength. Most often physically unseen, angels are wonderful beings. Their God instructed intervention in the affairs of men are treasured with much gratitude. Ever mindful of the disciples Jesus twice prayed that they would not fall into temptation. Beware! the more pleasant 'easy way' will often allure us. |
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| Lu 2247-54 It might seem that God lost control - but he didn't, not for a single moment. |
Judas led the crowd of priests and the Temple guard to where he knew Jesu would be. He approached Jesus to kiss him, but Jesus asked him, "Judas, are you betraying the Son of Man with a kiss?" No answer given. Then Jesus said to them, "Am I leading a rebellion, that you have come with swords and clubs? Every day I was with you in the temple courts, and you did not lay a hand on me. But this is your hour–when darkness reigns." Again no answer given. Much wickedness has always occurred during the hours of darkness when most men are asleep. No resistance. Almighty God saw and had planned the next 15 hours before he even created the world. Satan thought he was winning - how very, very foolish. God's willingness to be born a man was again seen being fulfilled: "Yet in thy dark streets shineth the everlasting light; The hopes and fears of all the years are met in thee tonight." |
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| Lu 2255-62 Peter disowns Jesus - and weeps. |
Peter was so confident, it did not seem possible to Peter that he would betray his Master. But Jesus knew better. Lu 2233,34 It all happened so easily. Just a young servant girl's comment as they warmed themselves by the fire. Then followed two further comments from others. No major accusations or threats - just the dawn crowing of a rooster. Peter was devastated and wept bitterly. Almighty God delights when we are confident in him and in his Word; but not when we are confident in ourselves. Jesus was not afraid to teach him a hard lesson. He learned it well |
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| Lu 2263-65 Religious leaders mock Almighty God! |
They enjoyed mocking Jesus. They blindfolded him and demanded, "Prophesy! Who hit you?" And no doubt that was just of the more polite thing they said! How can men be so blind, so blasphemous, so deceived? What will they say on the day when they have to stand before this same Jesus on Judgement day? In the modern world there is a certain degree towards the toleration of all religions, but there is a unified hatred of Jesus Christ as being the one and only Redeemer, the only one whose death can enable sinful men to enter heaven. |
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| Lu 2266-71 Jesus before Sanhedrin |
Having no agreed evidence against Jesus, they asked him, "If you are the Christ," they said, "tell us." Jesus answered, "If I tell you, you will not believe me." Then they asked him directly, "Are you then the Son of God?" He replied, "You are right in saying I am." Jesus was right, they didn't believe him and considered this great truth the ultimate blasphemy! Under Roman law they could not put him to death; so they took him to Pilate - but on a totally different charge. |
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| Lu 231-25 Jesus before Pilate, Herod, and finally Pilate again |
New charge against Jesus: "We have found this man subverting our nation. He opposes payment of taxes to Caesar and claims to be Christ, a king." But they had not a shred of evidence that Jesus has committed any of these three charges. Pilate, looking at Jesus after a night of being bullied, certainly concluded that here was no king or great leader. He had no beauty or majesty to attract us to him, nothing in his appearance that we should desire him. He was despised and rejected by men. Is 532,3 The Sanhedrin insisted that Jesus stirred up the people by his teaching (and also by his miracles). But he never led any insurrection or rebellion against Rome. So Pilate declared that "I find no basis for a charge against this man." Then he heard that Jesus was from Galilee. How convenient. He could pass the buck on to Herod -great idea! So they took him to Herod who plied him with many questions, but Jesus gave him no answer. Despairing, Herod and his soldiers ridiculed and mocked him. Typical. So they sent him back to Pilate; who again said, "I have examined him in your presence and have found no basis for your charges against him. Neither has Herod, for he sent him back to us; as you can see, he has done nothing to deserve death. Therefore, I will punish him and then release him." With this compromise Justice fell a couple of notches. But it would soon be in free-fall when the 'rent-a-mob' kept shouting, "Crucify him! Crucify him!" Pilate was sharp enough to see through their plot and their hatred of Jesus, but he was not morally strong enough to make justice and truth win the battle. Jesus was not despised and rejected for any of the good things he did or even for the high moral standards he taught and practised, but for proclaiming that all men are sinners who need to repent and believe that God's wrath can only be appeased by his prophesied death on a cross and his resurrection. The Sanhedrin was proud, obsessed with envy and hate. In contrast, Jesus had practical compassion for the people. He was popular, truthful, able to heal and easily outwit their spies. Finally Pilate surrendered Jesus to their will. Did these religious leaders really prefer a man guilty of insurrection and murder? Yes, they did! It was a day of sadness, when it seemed that evil had triumphed. But Satan's satisfaction would soon be reversed. He never guessed that Christ crucified was the plan of Almighty God to save sinners and enable the glorious Kingdom of God to be established and populated. Far from triumph, it was the day of Satan's greatest blunder! Why do the wicked seem to prosper so often? In the long term they never do. |
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| Lu 2326-49 Crucifixion |
Jesus had endured so much beating and bullying in the last 2 hours that he was unable to carry the cross-beam. So the Romans 'seized' Simon, a Jew from N.Africa, who had come to celebrate Passover. Many women mourned. Jesus told them, "Daughters of Jerusalem, do not weep for me; weep for yourselves and for your children. ..." He was telling them of the judgement to come. If this is how the innocent are treated, what will it be like when God judges the guilty - when the tree is dry ! He also quoted from Is 219 Men will flee to caves in the rocks and to holes in the ground from dread of the Lord and the splendour of his majesty, when he rises to shake the earth. The rulers even sneered at him. They said, "He saved others; let him save himself if he is the Christ of God, the Chosen One." The soldiers also came up and mocked him. They offered him wine vinegar and said, "If you are the king of the Jews, save yourself." Jesus did not come to save himself (he didn't need to), he came to save us sinners. And this he did achieve. It was one of the criminals crucified with Jesus who spoke the truth: "We are punished justly, for we are getting what our deeds deserve. But this man has done nothing wrong." So it was to him that Jesus said, "I tell you the truth, today you will be with me in paradise." What precious words. Almighty God marked this event that reversed the 'fall' and enabled forgiven men to enter the Kingdom of heaven. 1. The sun stopped shining for 3 hours. 2. The curtain of the Temple was torn in two from top to bottom. 3. Jesus called out with a loud voice,"Father, into your hands I commit my spirit." His great task was 'Finished' and he breathed his last.
Almighty God designed this awe-ful plan. "O the love that drew salvation's plan ..."
The centurion, seeing what had happened, praised God and said, "Surely this was a righteous man." Why did he praise God? Did he see, what even the Apostles did not yet appreciate, that this 'righteous man' died so we could be forgiven? |
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| Lu 2350-56 Burial |
Joseph of Arimathea was waiting for the kingdom of God. He had not consented to the Sanhedrin's decision and action. With Pilate's permission and with great care he took down the body, wrapped it and laid it in his rock tomb. As a doctor, Luke restricts his account to the facts of what happened. He does not advance any theology or reveal any emotion or thoughts. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Lu 241-12 Resurrection !! |
When the Sabbath was over, very early in the morning, the women took the spices they had prepared and went to the tomb. They found the stone rolled away from the tomb, but when they entered, they did not find the body of the Lord Jesus. Two angels, that gleamed like lightning, asked the women, "Why do you look for the living among the dead? He is not here; he has risen! Remember ... 'The Son of Man must ... be crucified and on the third day be raised again'." They were more than a little surprised! How slow we all are to hear the truth from Almighty God. How selective. We tend towards only hearing what we want to hear. Lord, please open my ears and bypass my natural longings to welcome what you know I need to learn. In these last days there are so many deceptive words. The women went and told the 11 and others, but their words seemed to them like nonsense. The concluding words of this last chapter tell how Jesus graciously appeared to them and the 'nonsense' turned to reality. They saw and believed. |
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| Lu 2413-49 Risen Christ explains the Scriptures.
We had hoped ... became |
None of the apostles and the earnest Jewish followers had any idea that the Messiah had to suffer. They were all mystified by God allowing Jesus to be crucified. It is equally strange for modern man to conceive of a loving God who had to appease his anger at our sin by crucifying his Son! There is no other way for sin to be forgiven. So Jesus walked with the disappointed two going home to Emmaus, And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning himself. Only with such revelation did they begin to understand and appreciate the 'Finished' work where love and justice met. Likewise Jesus appeared to the 11 and opened their minds so they could understand the Scriptures. He told them, "This is what is written: The Christ will suffer and rise from the dead on the third day, and repentance and forgiveness of sins will be preached in his name to all nations." This must remain the central truth for all Christians. Of all the great passages of the Bible, this emphasises how essential it is that we read and grasp all Scripture, not just the 'nice' parts. And even more essential it is that the Spirit of God shall himself open our eyes to reveal his truth, as nothing and no one else can. May it always be our fervent prayer as we read God's Word, "Lord, please open my eyes that I may see." The Christian message is based upon historical fact, events that happened. It is entirely rational - it all makes perfect sense. Creation, life, purpose ... It is empirical, verifiable, it works! |
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| Lu 2450-53 Ascension |
The disciples had returned to Jerusalem. Jesus led them out to Bethany. There, he blessed them. Then he was carried up into heaven. Two angels appeared and told them, "This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen him go into heaven." Act 111 Sustained by the Lord God, the disciples returned to Jerusalem with great joy, and were continually in the temple blessing God. What a transformation during the last 40 days when Jesus had told them about the kingdom of God. Act 13 |
| John 11-3 God’s story begins |
John does not open with an ‘ice breaker’ or any gentle introduction. He dives in. In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. And in the last book of the Bible, written in 95 AD (about 10 years later), he tells us his name: He is called The Word of God. Rev 1913 It is far more than our minds can conceive, but God was before time began; he designed time! John first introduces us to what they did when time began. Together they designed and constructed each of the 118 different atoms and all the physical laws that keep them stable. From these they created the whole vast universe and set all the billions of stars (galaxies) in motion. John starts where Genesis starts: “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth ...” Gen 11 And God created this very special earth, not just physical matter, but he designed and made all the myriad forms of life - vegetation, fish, birds, creatures and finally man in his own image. Foolish, deceiving man now lies, saying it all just happened by chance and teaches the satanic Evolution Theory as truth. John reveals what God did in the beginning: All things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made. 11 And he shared his life with all that he had made. He created light that always dispels darkness. He created our 5 senses - feeling, sight, hearing, taste, and smell. He created magnetism, electricity and relativity. He designed and set in motion all the varied symbiotic physical cycles upon which our life depend. And God saw all that he had made, and it was very good. Gen 131 Indeed it was ... And the more man discovers with his Hubble telescope and his electron microscope, the more we marvel at God’s sheer brilliance.
There is electro magnetic physical light, and there is also spiritual light - the revelation of truth and righteousness. In him was life, and the life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. Jn 14,5 |
| John 16-34 The first witness: John the Baptist |
There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. He came as a witness, to bear witness about the light, that all might believe through him. He was not the light, but came to bear witness about the light. The Apostle presents us with a court, not exactly a criminal court, but the court of God is a law court that judges our sin. God is judge, the reader is the accused, and Satan is the accuser. Zech 31 In this story the accused is given the opportunity to be defended by an Advocate who is the crucified and risen Son of God. John Baptist prepared the way. He told the people how the kingdom of heaven was ‘at hand’. Some received him, but many did not. He came to his own, and his own people did not receive him. But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God. Why did so many reject their Messiah? He wasn’t what they expected or wanted. Some, if not most, expected a ‘super king David’ who would trash their Roman enemies. But Jesus didn’t even try to!.Others thought that by doing their best to keep the law, God would be pleased with them. But he wasn’t - read Math 23 for the details of why he called them hypocrites. And others just failed to recognise him. They rejoiced at seeing people healed, but failed to be among the few that were willing to admit their guilt and plead for mercy. John preached, Repent! For the kingdom of heaven is at hand. Math 32 None the less, the Word who had spoken / commanded the creation into being, himself ‘became flesh and dwelt among us.’ As Charles Wesley wrote: Our God contracted to a span, Incomprehensibly made man. Almighty God made this incredible choice. He wanted men to see more than the law that was given though Moses. He longed for created man to see grace and truth through Christ Jesus. For from his fullness we have all received, grace upon grace.
The Pharisees had heard about John Baptist. They were curious. They sent priests and Levites to find out (they didn’t go themselves) to ask “Who are you?” John answered, “I am not the Christ”. So they made a couple of guesses, “Are you Elijah?” “Are you the Prophet?” To both John answered, “I am not” So far it was a frustrating interview. Their impatience began to show when they asked, “Then why are you baptizing, if you are neither the Christ, nor Elijah, nor the Prophet?” John’s reply didn’t help them much. “I baptize with water, but among you stands one you do not know ...” |
| John 135-51 Jesus calls first disciples |
The next day again John was standing with two of his disciples ... He was waiting, hovering, anticipating the next move of the hand of the Lord. Then he saw Jesus as he walked by. And he knew immediately what to do. He said just five words, “Behold, the Lamb of God!” This was his ‘preparation work’, to point men to Christ. The two disciples heard him say this, and they followed Jesus. There was not a trace of disappointment that two of his disciples had left him to follow Another. He was delighted. I must decrease and he must increase. The narrative now shifts to Jesus. The two disciples follow him at a distance and he asks, “What are you seeking?” Note that he asks ‘What?’ Not ‘Who are you seeking?’ They had heard John say he was ‘The Lamb of God’, though it would take a while before they knew the implication of this. They simply asked, “Where are you staying?” They wanted more than a 5 min chat. Jesus gave a very Jewish reply, “Come and you will see.” And they would see because the stayed with him. One of the two was called Andrew. He was very excited and ran away to find his brother Peter, “We have found the Messiah” (which means Christ). He brought him to Jesus. Jesus looked at him and said, “You are Simon the son of John. You shall be called Cephas” (which means Peter). Andrew, an evangelist from the start. Another significant day had passed. Jesus and his three disciples headed for Galilee. On the way he found Philip whom he called to follow him. Like Andrew, he immediately went off to find his brother, Nathanael and told him, “We have found him of whom Moses in the Law and also the prophets wrote, Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph.” But Nathanael was not very impressed. “Can anything good come out of Nazareth?” was his response. Philip was wise and did not argue, but just said, “Come and see.” So he went. When Jesus saw them coming he revealed his insight saying, “Behold, an Israelite indeed, in whom there is no deceit!” For the Son of God, who knows all our thoughts, to say that is quite something. Nathanael asks, “How do yo know me?” Jesus answered him, “Before Philip called you, when you were under the fig tree, I saw you.” Nathanael answered him, “Rabbi, you are the Son of God! You are the King of Israel!” Jesus answered him, “Because I said to you, ‘I saw you under the fig tree,’ do you believe? You will see greater things than these.” This is a remarkable brief conversation. Before Philip found Nathanael, what had he been doing when Jesus saw him under the fig tree? May I suggest that Jesus ‘saw him’ praying, longing for Messiah with all his heart, crying out to God. And Jesus assured him that he would see heaven opened and the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of Man. As Jacob had seen at Bethel, when on his way to Laban, when God also assured him concerning the future. |
| John 21-12 Best Cana Wedding Wine |
Mary, Jesus and disciples invited to wedding at Cana (8m north of Nazareth). Problem: the wine ran out. Mary told Jesus, though not her or his responsibility. Jesus said to her, “Woman, what does this have to do with me? My hour has not yet come.” In Hebrew ‘Woman’ was a respectful title, which may be better translated ‘Dear lady’. Jesus needed to tell her that his ministry on earth was not to solve every personal problem - but on this occasion that is exactly what he did. Mary understood that, so simply said to the servants, “Do whatever he tells you.” Jesus told them to fill the stone jars with water (nearly empty having been used to wash feet and hands), then draw off the water and take it to the master of the feast. There was no fuss and no commotion. He didn’t even know the wine had run out! But he did appreciate that the wine was really high quality vintage, God’s best! It must have been with some amazement when they found out about what had happened. It was the first of the 7 + 2 miracles that John records. 1. Water into wine at Cana. 21-12 2. Official of Capernaum's son healed. 446-54 3. Invalid for 38 years at Bethesda healed. 51-9 4. 5000 Galilean men fed using 5 loaves + 2 fish. 65-13 5. Walked on Galilee to meet disciples. 619-21 6. Man born blind healed at the temple. 91-7 7. Lazarus raised from the dead at Bethany. 111-44
There was also the greatest miracle of all - Jesus was raised from the dead. 201-31 |
| John 213-22 Jesus in the Temple |
John’s account of the ministry of Jesus is entirely chronological. This is the one event which the other 3 Gospels place only in the final week. Did he cleanse the Temple twice, once at the beginning and repeat it at the end? There is nothing different in the 4 accounts and no detail given by John that necessitates an earlier cleansing. So why did John record it at the beginning? The importance of this story is that the Son of God was rightly angry at the desecration of the Temple by religious men bent on making a totally unjust profit by twisting the Law of Moses. It should be noted that the doves were not released nor was the money taken. Jesus did not deprive any of the traders. But he did reveal God’s anger at their greed. Did they abandon their illicit personal enrichment? It seems not, as they were at it again three years later. Perhaps that is why John records this earlier cleansing; to show their unwillingness to repent. The Temple Charlatans even had the gall to demand that Jesus give them a sign to prove his authority. So Jesus told them, “Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up.” But they would have to wait three years to see that ‘this Temple’ (the body of Jesus) rise from the dead after being crucified! They didn’t believe it then, or later. But three Passover’s and three days later his disciples would recall this event and they believed the Scripture and the word that Jesus had spoken. Jesus proved that he had authority, power and good cause to cleanse his Temple. |
| John 223-25 Many believed, but ... |
Now when he was in Jerusalem at the Passover Feast, many believed in his name when they saw the signs that he was doing. But Jesus on his part did not entrust himself to them. Many believed that Jesus was a mighty prophet. But salvation requires more than this. We also need to believe that Jesus came as the perfect sacrificial Lamb of God to forgive sin. It is vital to know both who Jesus was and why he came. Jn 6 tells how many were miraculously fed and wanted to make him king. They followed, but then, sadly, they left. 666 They wanted a victorious king, not a crucified Saviour. |
| John 31-21 Must be ‘Born again’ |
This section contains the most quoted NT verse, but its significance is often not relised.
As a Pharisee, Nicodemus had a lot to lose if his association with Jesus were to be found out; so he came to Jesus by night. But he spoke up for him in the Pharisees meeting in 750 and with Joseph he buried Jesus after he was crucified. So this nocturnal meeting had a most significant effect upon his life.
He was open, honest and respectful in his seeking of the truth. “Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher come from God, for no one can do these signs that you do unless God is with him.” So Jesus was able to speak with him very directly. “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God.” Ingrained in the Pharisaical and Biblical understanding that if they could keep the Law, then God would consider them righteous. This is true! But the big problem is that our fallen nature renders this impossible. So men, both then and now, have changed this truth to be if any man tries to keep the Law he is righteous. Nicodemus recognised this problem. That is the reason why he obeyed what Paul would later teach ‘The Law is our schoolmaster to lead us to Christ’ Gal 324 He came to Christ, and Christ told him the answer.’you must be born again’, you must be given a new nature. ‘Born again’ was a common Jewish expression. They considered bar mitzvah, marriage and becoming a rabbi were being born again. And in a way they are. Nicodemus had experienced all three. So Jesus then told him that the new birth that he was talking about was about being born of the Spirit, not the flesh. “How?”asked Nicodemus. Jesus told him the most unexpected answer. “As Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, that whoever believes in him may have eternal life.” In other words, by believing that the longed-for Messiah had to be lifted up, crucified. Then Jesus went on to explain: “For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him. Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe is condemned already.” Nicodemus knew all about the confession and the sacrifices that needed to be made to receive forgiveness of sin. He knew Jesus was ‘of God’ but he never expected that the man he came to see was the Son of God. Nor did he expect that God would send his Son to be the perfect sacrifice. Though he certainly knew that this is what God told Abraham to do with his son of promise, Isaac. Jesus must have delighted to teach this honest and open pupil. And today he still delights to open our hearts, reveal the truth and give us a new spirit, a new birth. Jn 316 is wonderfully true; and as in the previous section, it is essential that we not only believe who Jesus was, but also why he came. His being ‘lifted up’ was not a sad accident, it is the vital divine sacrificial necessity for our salvation. For the majority who refuse this truth, it is tearfully true that this is the judgment: the light has come into the world, and people loved the darkness rather than the light because their works were evil. For everyone who does wicked things hates the light and does not come to the light. Let us follow the example of Nicodemus who sought, listened, confessed and believed. O come and dwell in me Spirit of power within! And bring the glorious liberty From sorrow, fear and sin.
The seed of sin's disease, |
| John 322-36 John testifies |
The disciples of John Baptist asked him, “Rabbi, ... he who was with you across the Jordan, to whom you bore witness—look, he is baptising, and all are going to him.” As if to say, ‘yet you are not concerned about losing disciples’. But John’s heart was true, and he gave a really great and clear answer. One which many preachers and evangelists should study and ‘hear’; for we live in a day when humility and obedience, and even truth are rare. Perhaps they always were. John said, “I am not the Christ, but I have been sent before him. The one who has the bride is the bridegroom. The friend of the bridegroom, who stands and hears him, rejoices greatly at the bridegroom's voice. Therefore this joy of mine is now complete. He must increase, but I must decrease. ... For he whom God has sent utters the words of God, for he gives the Spirit without measure. ... Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life; whoever does not obey the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God remains on him.” Not even a hint of personal rivalry, which the initial question had suggested. Just the sheer delight of a man whose ministry of directing men to Christ, was almost complete. It was not without good reason that Jesus would later say he was the greatest of all the prophets. Lu 724-27 |
| John 41-42 Jesus at the well |
When Jesus learned that his disciples were baptising more than John he left Judea and went north to Galilee. On his way he went through the Samaritan town of Sychar. Jacob’s well was there and being mid-day he was hot and tired. When a Samaritan woman came to draw water he asked her for a drink. A simple introduction. But it surprised her enough to ask why a Jew was asking a Samaritan to do anything. Jesus know her need, answered, “If you knew the gift of God and who it is that asks you for a drink, you would have asked him and he would have given you living water.” She responded that she had a bucket and rope, but he hadn’t. So how could he offer her water? Where can you get living water; we’ve got Jacob’s well. Are you greater than Jacob? She obviously wasn’t slow in asking questions! Jesus saw this as a great opportunity. So he took the conversation up a notch: “Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks the water I give him will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” Although she didn’t understand about ‘living’ water, she very much liked the idea of not having to draw water every day, at the hottest time of the day. “Go, call your husband and come back.” But what’s that got to do with water? It hit the central problem of her life. She honestly replied, “I have no husband.” To which Jesus replied that he knew her life was a shambles; 5 husbands and now with an unmarried man. She didn’t try to deny this was correct, but just said, “I can see that you are a prophet.” And then diverted the conversation to the question as to whether she should worship in Samaria or in Jerusalem? Jesus again took the conversation to a higher plane; telling her that it is not where you worship, but how you worship - it must be in spirit and in truth. She wasn’t really interested in the sectarian question either, but said, “I know that Messiah is coming. When he comes, he will explain everything to us.” To which Jesus told her the amazing truth: “I who speak to you am he.” So she came to believe. And so did many others in the town when she told them. Jesus stayed in Sychar for two days. They said to the woman, “We no longer believe just because of what you said; now we have heard for ourselves, and we know that this man really is the Saviour of the world.” The conversation recorded here was revealed by the woman. The disciples were not witnesses of it. Also note that John does not name the woman as this would reveal her shameful past. The disciples were somewhat puzzled when they returned from buying food, and that Jesus declined to eat it. “My food,” said Jesus, “is to do the will of him who sent me and to finish his work.” And he told them: the saying ‘One sows and another reaps’ is true. Just a few years later we read that Philip brought the good news of Jesus crucified and resurrected to redeem sinful men, and the people of Samaria believed it. Acts 84-8 |
| John 443-54 Return to Cana |
The Galileans welcomed him. They had seen all that he had done in Jerusalem at the Passover Feast, for they also had been there. A royal official, who had a very sick son in Capernaum, came to Jesus in Cana seeking help. Jesus said, “Unless you people see miraculous signs and wonders,” Jesus told him, “you will never believe.” Seeing miracles may help some to believe who Jesus was. John only includes 7 of the 35 recorded miracles for this reason. 2031 But they rarely enable men to know why Jesus had to be crucified to gain our atonement. See Math 1239 164 An evil and adulterous generation seek signs. But were only given the sign of Jonah. This was his death and resurrection that led to the repentance and saving of Nineveh. Also after the miracle of feeding the 5,000 the multitude did not plead with God for mercy and seek forgiveness; they tried to make Jesus King, which he refused. The royal official only had one purpose, the healing of his son. He just pleaded, “Sir, come down before my child dies.” Jesus replied, “You may go. Your son will live.” When he got home he found that the fever had left the child at the very moment Jesus had said, “Your son will live.” So he and all his household believed. |
| John 51-9 Bethesda invalid healed |
Jesus went up to Jerusalem, to the pool of Bethesda where a great number of disabled people congregated hoping to be healed when the waters stirred. One man had been an invalid for 38 years. So Jesus asked him “Do you want to get well? ... Get up! Pick up your mat and walk.” At once the man was cured; he picked up his mat and walked. No problem! Except it was on the Sabbath. |
| John 58-18 Sabbath Law |
Instead of being thrilled that this man, an invalid for 38 years, was cured, the Jewish leaders were only concerned that the man had picked up his mat on the Sabbath! Tragic. It started their ongoing hostility to the Son of God. First of 7 recorded times Jesus healed / worked on the Sabbath. After the Jews returned from exile in Babylon the Hasmonean ‘Oral Law’ had introduced 1,500 Sabbath laws. These were man’s regulations, not God’s, so Jesus ignored them. See website "Jesus kept the Sabbath". (Use back arrow to return) Jesus told them clearly: “My Father is working until now, and I am working.” This was why the Jews were seeking all the more to kill him, because not only was he breaking the Sabbath, but he was even calling God his own Father. |
| John 519-47 Jesus, the Son of God |
Jesus proves that he is the Son of God by the miracles - sight to man born blind etc and by the truth that he revealed to those with ears to hear. “Truly, truly, I say to you, the Son can do nothing of his own accord, but only what he sees the Father doing. For whatever the Father does, that the Son does likewise.” “Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life.” “Truly, truly, I say to you, an hour is coming, and is now here, when the dead will hear the voice of the Son of God, and those who hear will live.” “The very works that I am doing, bear witness about me that the Father has sent me. ... I have come in my Father's name, and you do not receive me. ... For if you believed Moses, you would believe me; for he wrote of me.” But most of the religious leaders to whom he spoke these words did not believe him. And as we shall see in the next chapter, many disciples / followers would turn away when Jesus told them truths they did not want to hear. |
| John 61-15 Jesus feeds 5,000 |
The 12 had just returned from being sent out to preach, so Jesus took them across the Galilee to a quiet mountain. It was also possibly wise to avoid Herod Antipas who had just beheaded John Baptist (see Lu 91-10). A large crowd was following him, because they saw the signs that he was doing on the sick. And Jesus had compassion on them. By late afternoon they were hungry but only had 5 loaves and 2 fish. So Jesus gave thanks for what they had and multiplied it so that all were fed. When they finished, they tidied up and filled 12 baskets with the scraps! There were 5,000 men, and at least the same number of women and children. When the people saw the sign that he had done, they said, “This is indeed the Prophet who is to come into the world!” Miracles can be dangerous! The people wanted to make him king. But Jesus had come to earth, not to be king, but to be our Saviour. So he sent the apostles away in the boat and went up the mountain alone. No one followed him |
| John 616-21 In the dark |
After a busy and exciting day, the disciples had rowed about 4 miles out into the lake. It was dark, the sea was now rough and they were tired. Up on the mountain Jesus had seen them struggling. So he walked out to be with them - The last 4 miles he had to walk on the water. No problem to the Son of God who created it!! When the disciples saw him they were surprised and frightened. Who wouldn’t be? Jesus calmed all their fears, “It is I; do not be afraid.” More details of this are given in Math 1422-36 and Mk 645-56 |
| John 627-71 Bread - from wheat or Heaven |
The dispersed crowd sought Jesus in Capernaum asking how he got there. Jesus said, “Truly, truly, I say to you, you are seeking me, not because you saw signs, but because you ate your fill of the loaves. Do not work for the food that perishes, but for the food that endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give to you. For on him God the Father has set his seal.” But the truth had yet to dawn upon the crowd who asked, “What must we do ?” Such men will always think that can earn God’s approval; and many will work hard to do so. Jesus corrected this folly by telling them, “This is the work of God, that you believe in him whom he has sent.” They responded, “What sign do you do, that we may see and believe you?” Jesus had just multiplied the bread to feed 5000, but that was not enough. They wanted Jesus to feed them as in the Exodus when God gave them manna each day. But Jesus wanted to give the spiritual bread; the bread of God for their souls. .So he told them plainly, “The bread of God is he who comes down from heaven and gives life to the world. ... I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst.” This is the first of seven “I AM the ...” See website "I am the ..." (Use back arrow to return) But they did not believe. They still did not understand that Jesus was the Son of God To the few whose minds were open he assured them, "All that the Father gives me will come to me, and whoever comes to me I will never cast out. ... everyone who looks on the Son and believes in him should have eternal life, and I will raise him up on the last day.” At this the crowd grumbled saying, “Is not this Jesus, the son of Joseph, whose father and mother we know? How does he now say, ‘I have come down from heaven’?” Jesus saw that their hearts were still darkened, yet with patience he repeated the truth that they needed to hear. “No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws him. And I will raise him up on the last day. ... Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever believes has eternal life. I am the bread of life. Your fathers ate the manna in the wilderness, and they died. This is the bread that comes down from heaven, so that one may eat of it and not die. I am the living bread that came down from heaven. If anyone eats of this bread, he will live forever. And the bread that I will give for the life of the world is my flesh. ... Truly, truly, I say to you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you have no life in you.” To many this was rubbish instead of beautiful, life-giving truth and there follows what could be said to be the saddest verse in the NT: After this many of his disciples turned back and no longer walked with him. Jesus then asked the 12 if they also wanted to go away. Simon Peter answered him, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life, and we have believed, and have come to know, that you are the Holy One of God.” And this time Peter was right on target and a delight to Jesus.
Break Thou the Bread of Life,
Thou art the Bread of Life, |
| John 71-24 Tabernacles |
Jesus avoided Judea because they were seeking to kill him. His brothers, who did not yet believe in him said he was missing a good miracle opportunity. So he told them, “My time has not yet come, but your time is always here. The world cannot hate you, but it hates me because I testify about it that its works are evil.” So the brothers went up to the feast without him. Jesus went up later, but not publicly. He taught in the Temple and people marvelled because they knew he had never ‘studied’. So he told them, “My teaching is not mine, but his who sent me. If anyone's will is to do God's will, he will know whether the teaching is from God.” This has always been the criteria. Today many compromise the truth because they want to be popular and gain a good reputation. Like Jesus’ brothers who wanted the attraction of miracles. They went up to the feast thinking it would please God, but their hearts were not open, they had little desire to walk with God or to do his will.). Very different from Peter who had said, “You have the words of eternal life, and we have believed, and have come to know, that you are the Holy One of God.” 668,69 Jesus then asked the people why they sought to kill him, and why they were so angry because he had healed a man on the Sabbath? Their judgements were askew because they had no real longing for God. They could not see who it was that was teaching them the truth. Lord, please open my eyes, my heart and draw me to yourself. You know this is my plea above all other. |
| John 725-52 Is Jesus the Christ? |
Some in Jerusalem asked if the authorities are seeking to kill Jesus, why is he still teaching in the Temple? “We know where this man comes from, and when the Christ appears, no one will know where he comes from.” But they didn’t know. He was brought up in Nazareth, but born in Bethlehem and came from heaven. No one laid a hand on him, because his hour had not yet come. Many of the people believed in him. They said, “When the Christ appears, will he do more signs than this man has done?” But what did these ‘many’ believe? And for how long did they believe it? The Pharisees sent officers to arrest Jesus - but they didn’t! Jesus then said, “I will be with you a little longer, and then I am going to him who sent me. You will seek me and you will not find me. Where I am you cannot come.” It was at the feast of Tabernacles, so probably ‘a little longer’ would be 6 months. Then they would not be able to find him because he would be in heaven. (This did not negate the promise that all who seek the Lord shall find him. The former was physically, the promise is of a spiritual nature.) The people thought that Jesus might mean he would disappear in a foreign land. They had no idea that Jesus was the Son of God, come down from heaven and was going back there. Knowing the story of the crucifixion and resurrection it is much easier for us to understand today. Although many now believe the story of the life of Jesus on earth, they do not know why he came. On the last day of the feast, the great day, Jesus stood up and cried out, ... It was a two-part vital sermon: 1. “If anyone thirsts, let him come to me and drink.” No man has any desire for Jesus unless the Father draws him. 2. “Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, ‘Out of his heart will flow rivers of living water’.” The truth of God is always life-giving. Ezek 471-12 Rev 221-6 But the people were confused. Some thought Jesus was the Prophet or the Christ, others said no, he can’t be because he come from Galilee, Christ will come from Bethlehem. Some wanted to arrest him, but no one laid hands on him. The officers returned and reported, “No one ever spoke like this man!” The Pharisees (except Nicodemus) thought their officers had been deceived. But in truth it was they who were deceived and blind, not their officers. |
| John 81-11 Jesus wins battle ! |
The scribes and the Pharisees brought a woman who had been caught in adultery.
Battle in Temple commences. Using the law of Moses, they tried to make Jesus approve stoning her. Jesus refused, and wrote on the ground. Not told what he wrote. Maybe Hos 414 Lev 2010 Deut 2222 where men were also punished (significantly the man in this case was absent) Maybe it was names, either those that the accusers had had affairs with or the names of women they had had affairs with. The accusers continued to taunt / test him. So Jesus stood up and said, “Let him who is without sin among you be the first to throw a stone at her.” Then he bent down and continued writing. At this the accusers went away beginning with the older ones. Normally the youngest voted first so as not to be influenced by how the elder men voted. They all left. Presumably not one was innocent, they were all adulterers! Jesus stood up and said to her, “Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?” She said, “No one, Lord.” And Jesus said, “Neither do I condemn you; go, and from now on sin no more.” By so doing, Jesus did not say her sin didn’t matter, but he did forgive her and in all probability changed her life style.- but of this we are not informed. We may assume that, unlike the Pharisees, Jesus, as always, administered justice. |
| John 812-20 Another battle |
Jesus declared in the Temple: “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” The Pharisees hated such a claim so they immediately challenged this using the normal convention that all statements should be verifiable by at least two witnesses. Jesus justified his claim by saying he was one witness and his Father was the other. He didn’t mention that the Holy Spirit was a third witness. The ‘Light’ was the life of God and spiritual truth. But the Pharisees walked in darkness and had no desire for this true light that had come into the world. See Jn 14-14 But no one arrested him, because his hour had not yet come. (This is the 2nd “I AM”) |
| John 821-59 “You will die in your sin Unless ..." |
Jesus told the people, “Where I am going, you cannot come ... for unless you believe that I am he you will die in your sins.” So they asked him who he was. Jesus replied, “Just what I have been telling you from the beginning ... When you have lifted up the Son of Man, then you will know that I am he. ... I always do the things that are pleasing to him.” Although they did not understand Jesus was telling them about his Father, many believed in him. But what did the ‘many’ believe? Jesus said to the Jews who believed in him, “If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” But although ‘they believed’, they responded, “We are offspring of Abraham and have never been enslaved to anyone.” Jesus answered them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, everyone who practices sin is a slave to sin. ... if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed. I know that you are offspring of Abraham; yet you seek to kill me because my word finds no place in you.” This initiated a strong argument about who was father to these people, Abraham or Satan! It ended with Jesus declaring, “Truly, truly, I say to you, before Abraham was, I am.” So they picked up stones to throw at him, but Jesus hid himself and went out of the temple. It is clear that although John says many believed, there were also many who did not believe - and therefore would die in their sin. |
| John 91-49 Who sinned? Who was blind? |
What a foolish question. How could a man’s blindness be because he sinned in his mother’s womb? Jesus told them that the son’s blindness was not because the parents sinned, but his healing would be for the glory of God. Jesus spat on the ground, made some mud, anointed the blind man’s eyes and told him to go to Siloam and wash it off. He obeyed, but didn’t know who it was that had instructed him. He returned seeing. And his brain had also instantly learned to interpret the new signals from his retinas. Some said it could not be the same man. Others brought him to the Pharisees, which raised another problem - it was on the Sabbath. Some of them concluded that the man who had instructed him to go and wash, was not from God. Others said, “How can a man who is a sinner do such signs?” They asked the man who had been blind and he said, “He is a prophet.” So they concluded that the man had not really been blind and it was just a story. When they asked his parents they said, “We know that this is our son and that he was born blind. But how he now sees we do not know, nor do we know who opened his eyes. Ask him; he is of age.” So they did and again he testified simply, “Whether he is a sinner I do not know. One thing I do know, that though I was blind, now I see.” The Pharisees believed that only the Christ could heal a man born blind, and since this man had healed on the Sabbath, he must be a sinner. Finally the healed man said, “Never since the world began has it been heard that anyone opened the eyes of a man born blind. If this man were not from God, he could do nothing.” They answered him, “You were born in utter sin, and would you teach us?” And they cast him out. But Jesus went and found him and told him that it was the Son of Man who had healed him and he was standing before him. He believed. But to the listening Pharisees, Jesus said, “If you were blind, you would have no guilt; but now that you say, ‘We see,’ your guilt remains.” ‘There are none so blind as those who refuse to see’. |
| John 101-21 The Good Shepherd and the only Door |
In 101-6 Jesus warns us of ‘thieves’ who enter the flock by climbing in another way. They join the church, but not by believing that Jesus had to be crucified to gain God’s forgiveness for our sin. They see the lifestyle of the church and want to be part of it. True sheep hear the Shepherd’s voice and will not follow false leaders, who are ‘thieves’. This figure of speech Jesus used with them, but they did not understand what he was saying to them. Sadly, this is still true; for many are deceived and follow their leaders instead of the truth of Christ crucified. Jesus then tells them, “I am the door of the sheep.” All others are ‘thieves and robbers’ who ‘steal and kill and destroy’ (like Islam and many mega-churches that are led astray and enrich their popular leaders). He who is a hired hand and not a shepherd, who does not own the sheep, sees the wolf coming and leaves the sheep and flees, and the wolf snatches them and scatters them. He flees. He is not really concerned about the flock, but only his own safety, comfort and reputation. In contrast, Jesus is the Good Shepherd, who lays down his life for the sheep ... I lay down my life that I may take it up again. No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. ... This charge I have received from my Father. Perhaps it is not surprising that the people did not understand this teaching. There was again a division among the Jews because of these words. Not the labours, zeal, tears ... 'All for sin could not atone; Thou must save, and thou alone.' |
| John 1022-42 Who are you? |
At the winter feast of Dedication (Hanukkah) in Jerusalem, the people asked Jesus, “If you are the Christ, tell us plainly.” Jesus answered them, “I told you, and you do not believe. ... because you are not among my sheep. My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all ... I and the Father are one.” The people considered this to be blasphemy. They picked up stones; but Jesus asked them, “I have shown you many good works from the Father; for which of them are you going to stone me?” The evidence was clear, but few believed. How can the hearts of men be so hard? Jesus then went away across the Jordan. |
| John 111-57 Lazarus raised God glorified Pharisees plan to kill |
When Jesus heard that Lazarus was ill he said, “This illness does not lead to death. It is for the glory of God.” Lazarus died but was raised to life, so didn’t end in death. Knowing what was going happen, he purposefully delayed his journey to Bethany. When he told his disciples that it was time to go up to Judea again (for Passover), they tried to stop him because of the repeated death threats. But Jesus reminded them that his time had come. Then he told them, “Our friend Lazarus has fallen asleep, but I go to awaken him.” When Jesus was nearly at Bethany,.Martha ran out to meet him. Their conversation is recorded in full. “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died. But even now I know that whatever you ask from God, God will give you.” Jesus said to her, “Your brother will rise again.” Martha said to him, “I know that he will rise again in the resurrection on the last day.” Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, and everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die. Do you believe this?” She said to him, “Yes, Lord; I believe that you are the Christ, the Son of God, who is coming into the world.” Jesus also asked to see Mary. She came immediately and fell at his feet saying, “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died.” When Jesus saw her weeping, and the Jews who had come with her also weeping, he was deeply moved in his spirit and greatly troubled. Lazarus had died and been buried four days earlier so Martha objected when Jesus said, “Take away the stone.” They did so. Then Jesus commanded in a loud voice, “Lazarus, come out.” And the dead man heard and obeyed! Thus was fulfilled what Jesus had said at the start, God was greatly glorified. Note that in this case the stone had to be removed to let Lazarus out But a few weeks later the sealed stone of the sepulchre for Jesus was rolled back by the angel, not to let Jesus out, but to let the disciples in, so that they could see he was not there and had risen leaving his grave clothes neatly folded! (Jn 205-7) When the Pharisees were told about Lazarus, they were alarmed and saw Jesus as a threat to the nation, not just themselves. Caiaphas prophesied, “You know nothing at all ! You do not realize that it is better for you that one man die for the people than that the whole nation perish.” (NIV) So they made greater efforts to kill Jesus. But he withdrew to Ephraim until Passover. |
| John 121-8 Jesus anointed by Mary |
Six days before Passover, Jesus returns to Bethany and was given dinner in the house of Lazarus, Mary and Martha. Mary took the opportunity to anoint his feet and wipe them with her hair. The house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume. But Judas Iscariot said, “Why was this ointment not sold for three hundred denarii and given to the poor?” But Jesus said, “Leave her alone, (It was intended) that she should save this perfume for the day of my burial.” It seems that Bethany was a place of contrasts. 1. How the people reacted to Lazarus being brought to life c.f. Pharisees. 2. Mary’s beautiful anointing c.f. Judas. Today Jesus is most often just ignored. As Studdert Kennedy wrote: When Jesus came to Golgotha they hanged him on a tree ... When Jesus came to Birmingham they simply passed him by ... The crowds went home and left the streets without a soul to see, And Jesus crouched against a wall and cried for Calvary. |
| John 129-11 Lazarus must die too! |
The return of Jesus to Bethany attracted many who had witnessed Lazarus being raised from the dead a few weeks earlier. So the chief priests made plans to put Lazarus to death as well, because on account of him many of the Jews were going away and believing in Jesus. What had Lazarus done to deserve the death penalty? Nothing. But the Pharisees were better known for self-interest than for justice. Mixed and deceitful motives are also common in modern politics and the media. |
| John 1212-19 Triumph and Tears |
A large crowd gathered to welcome Jesus coming to Jerusalem for the last time; for a week later he would be crucified there. Yet it was not the last time. He will be coming back in the last days to destroy the evil armies of the Beast attacking Jerusalem. Rev 1911-21 The people laid out palm branches and sang: “Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord, even the King of Israel!” But Jesus chose to ride on a donkey! He knew that before he exercised his kingship, he must first be the Passover Lamb. Yet in spite of all his teaching and the OT prophecies, no one understood or yearned for God’s forgiveness of sin or how this could be achieved. Luke records that when the crowd reached the point where they could look down on the city, Jesus stopped and wept, “Would that you, even you, had known on this day the things that make for peace! But now they are hidden from your eyes.” Then he warned them that because they didn’t realise the time of their visitation, their enemies would destroy the city. This truth of Jesus remains largely hidden in both Jerusalem and London. Few long for a Saviour; they only want a King. They yearn for peace on earth, not peace with God! To appreciate that Christ crucified and risen is the wisdom and power of God requires the revelation of our most gracious God. For over 500 years we have had the Word of God in English, but few now bother to read it. And even fewer believe its truth. So what has God planned for our future? Triumph or tears? |
| John 1220-36 Some Greeks seek Jesus |
Andrew and Philip brought them to Jesus. We are not told what they asked him. They were Gentiles who had come to Jerusalem for the feast of Passover, so presumably they were seeking salvation and were being ‘drawn by the Father’. Jesus answered their longing hearts by telling them the answer. 1. “The hour has come for the Son of Man to be glorified.” They were about to witness how God would save sinful men and thus he would be glorified in heaven. 2. “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit.” But first he had to lay down his life and be crucified. And thereby anyone who longs for life with God in heaven more than this life on earth will be given eternal life. 3. “He must follow me, and where I am, there will my servant be also.” To ‘follow Christ’ does not only mean to try to be like him. We must first be willing to follow him to the Cross, be crucified with him and raised with him, believing in Christ; then, and only then to follow him. Ro 61-14 Jesus tells them plainly about what is about to happen. “Now is my soul troubled. ... But for this purpose I have come to this hour. And he confirms that this is his whole purpose in coming to earth, to glorify his Father and save his sin-enslaved people. Then a voice came from heaven: “I have glorified it, and I will glorify it again.” The crowd didn’t understand. God, who had been so glorified and revealed in creation, was about to be glorified again in Christ by being crucified and raised from the dead and thus with him, a vast multitude of forgiven sinful men. Jesus said, “Now is the judgment of this world; now will the ruler of this world be cast out. And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all people to myself.” Thus did Almighty God answer the Gentile enquiring Greeks; though it would not have been until after Jesus was raised from the dead that they would have understood what he told them. It seems like the zealous Jews who came to Jerusalem for the feast of Wesks (Pentecost). They came longing, and were both surprised and saved. Acts 25-41 |
| John 1237-50 Few believed |
In spite of the many signs they did not believe in Jesus, so he hid himself from them. Jesus told the people, “I have come into the world as light, so that whoever believes in me may not remain in darkness. ... The one who rejects me and does not receive my words has a judge; the word that I have spoken will judge him on the last day.” |
| John 131-20 Last Supper Jesus washes their feet |
Jesus knew: 1. The devil had already put it into the heart of Judas Iscariot to betray him. 2. The Father had given all things into his hands. 3. He had come from God. 4. He was going back to God. There were no surprises for Jesus during this last week, just obedience to Father. The disciples only understood later why Jesus proceeded to wash their feet. If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another's feet. For I have given you an example ... a servant is not greater than his master. He told them that all except one were clean. |
| John 1321-30 Judas did not repent |
Jesus repeated, “Truly, truly, I say to you, one of you will betray me.” They were all surprised, except Judas, and asked if it was them. Jesus gave a morsel of bread to Judas indicating who it was. Judas, though also chosen by Jesus to sit next to him, still did not repent. Satan entered into him. ... he immediately went out. And it was night. |
| John 1331,32 Crucifixion and Glory |
Jesus said, “Now is the Son of Man glorified, and God is glorified in him ...” For 4,000 years of world history Almighty God had been preparing his creation for this moment when he would be rejected and his Son crucified. How could this bring him glory? Very simply, but at extreme cost, it would enable sinful men to be forgiven and thus to enter heaven. Not just a few here and there, but thousands upon thousands. It would fulfill the purpose of creation, that had been so marred. It would fill heaven with grateful, holy people. It would enable the risen Christ to be worthy to open the 7 seals. He alone was the lion of the tribe of Judah who had triumphed over sin, Satan and death. He could publicise all the names written therein. John is shown this multitude in Rev 58-14 79-17 151-8 191-8 |
| John 1333-35 Love one another |
Jesus said, A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you. At last this would be possible. Real love and forgiveness could replace hatred and war. |
| John 1336-38 Zealous Peter |
Peter did not always get the timing right, but no one can doubt his enthusiasm for Jesus, who clearly appreciated it. Simon Peter said to him, “Lord, where are you going?” Jesus answered him, “Where I am going you cannot follow me now, but you will follow afterward.” Not only would Peter follow Jesus into heaven, but he would also die upon a cross. Earlier he had told the people who did not believe, “I am going away, and you will seek me, and you will die in your sin. Where I am going, you cannot come.” 821,22 Peter was so emphatic about following Jesus that Jesus had to tell him: “Will you lay down your life for me? Truly, truly, I say to you, the rooster will not crow till you have denied me three times. When this happened Jesus was not slow to forgive the repentant Peter. 1815-27 and 2115-19 |
| John 141-14 Avoiding trouble |
Can we avoid trouble in this world? If so, how? Jesus simply said, “Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me.” Do not allow your mind to be troubled by Satan’s distractions and deceptions. Read and remember the truth that Almighty God has said and promised. At the time the disciples were troubled by the fact that Jesus was about to be betrayed, leave them and be crucified. So he told them I go to prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also. Thomas questioned this because he did know where Jesus was going to and thus couldn’t know how to get there. So Jesus told him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” Philip wanted to be shown the Father. So Jesus told him, “Do you not believe that I am in the Father and the Father is in me?” Then Jesus told them: “Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever believes in me will also do the works that I do; and greater works than these will he do, because I am going to the Father.” But Jesus had healed the sick and even three times raised the dead. How could the disciples do more than that? They would enable men to repent and believe in Christ crucified and raised and thus 1,000's saved. Act 241 etc |
| John 1415-31 Instructions and Provision for future work |
If you love me, you will keep my commandments. Father will give you another Helper, to be with you forever, even the Spirit of truth. Because I live, you also will live. If anyone loves me, he will keep my word, and my Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our home with him. The Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things. Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid. The ruler of this world is coming. He has no claim on me, but I do as the Father has commanded me. This is the guarantee of Almighty God that in this troubled world: he will be with us for ever reveal the truth to us enable us to keep his commandments. |
| John 151-17 Dependence and Choice |
The Vinedresser prunes and cares for the vine. The branches are dependent upon the Vine for life and nourishment; if separated they die. Jesus told them, “I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.” Furthermore, “You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit.” Jesus taught his disciples these two truths at the Last Supper because he knew they were important. So let us remember that self-sufficiency leads to death, not fruitfulness; to deception and despair, not the joy of pleasing God. |
| John 1518 - 16 Persecution inevitable |
A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted me, they will also persecute you. Today many choose to ignore this statement by Jesus. They prefer the path of popularity that avoids mentioning the just judgement of sin that necessitated the Cross. The Pharisees hated Jesus without just cause: 1. Jealousy - they were unable to heal and restore. 2. He didn’t keep the Sabbath law (as they had defined it) 3. He exposed their hypocrisy. 4. Vastly superior wisdom and ability to answer their ‘trick’ questions. 5. Finally he fulfilled the prophesied way of God’s forgiveness by his perfect sacrifice, instead of by trying to earn it by keeping the Law. When the day would come that the disciples would also be persecuted and put out of the synagogues, Jesus promised that the Helper, the Spirit of truth would be with them to enable them to be his witnesses. |
| John 165-15 The Spirit of Truth |
Obviously the disciples were sorry that Jesus was about to leave them, but he assured them that it would be to their advantage as he would send the Holy Spirit. He will convict the world concerning: 1. sin - because they do not believe in me 2. righteousness - because I go to the Father, and you will see me no longer 3. judgment - because the ruler of this world is judged. Many in the popular Pentecostal wing of the church decline to mention this conviction, but prefer to emphasise joy and miracles. But thankfully When the Spirit of truth comes: He will guide you into all the truth. He will declare to you the things that are to come. He will glorify me. How will he do this? By reading and expounding all the Word of God; not just using selected verses that justify what popular proponents want to say. God’s truth will encourage faith, answer questions and be challenging. He will demand that we change the way we think and act. Blessed are the meek who are willing to hear. |
| John 1616-24 In a little while ... |
“A little while, and you will see me no longer; and again a little while, and you will see me.” What did this mean? Jesus was telling them that he was going to die, but he would also rise from death and come back to them again alive. “Truly, truly, I say to you, you will weep and lament, but the world will rejoice. You will be sorrowful, but your sorrow will turn into joy. ... Ask, and you will receive.” |
| John 1625-33 The world changed when Jesus came and went. |
Jesus told them plainly, “I came from the Father and have come into the world, and now I am leaving the world and going to the Father.” The disciples believed this, but they still did not realise why Jesus came, why he had to be crucified before returning to the Father. So he tells them, “Behold, the hour is coming, indeed it has come, when you will be scattered.” Then before praying for them he gives them a warning and an encouragement. “I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” This promise remains today. The future for all Christians is peace with Jesus and at the same time tribulation in the world. Beware of presuming that our British heritage will enable us to escape tribulation and persecution. |
| John 171-26 Jesus prays |
“Father, the hour has come ...” 4,000 years had passed since Adam had sinned and had to be thrown out of Eden. God had patiently been preparing for this moment when his Son would lay down his life as the only perfect sacrifice required for sin to be forgiven. “Glorify your Son that the Son may glorify you.” How can being crucified do this? It was God’s means of paying the price to redeem sinful men and populate heaven with men saved, born again and forgiven. Jesus richly deserves glory for giving men eternal life. This was the whole purpose of God ‘incomprehensibly made man’. I have manifested your name to the people whom you gave me ... I have given them the words that you gave me, ... and they have believed that you sent me. I am glorified in them. Jesus prayed specifically for his disciples, knowing what they would face in the days to come when he was ascended. I do not ask that you take them out of the world, but that you keep them from the evil one. ... Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth. Then he prays for the many others who would come to believe in Jesus: “I do not ask for these only, but also for those who will believe in me through their word, that they may all be one, just as you, Father, are in me, and I in you, that they also may be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me.” Thus did the Lord of Glory pray for us. And he continues to be our Advocate and makes intercession for us. |
| John 181-12 Gethsemane |
John does not record how Jesus prayed so earnestly in the garden. Judas, the betrayer, led a band of soldiers and some religious officials there. Jesus said to them, “Whom do you seek?” They answered him, “Jesus of Nazareth.” Jesus said to them, “I am he.” Then they drew back and fell to the ground. So Jesus repeated his question. When they were arresting Jesus, Peter drew a sword and cut off the ear of Malchus, the High Priest’s servant. Jesus rebuked Peter and healed the ear. The disciples ran off. The soldiers bound Jesus and took him to Annas. |
| John 1819-24 Before Annas |
Annas questions Jeus about what he taught, but Jesus reminded him that in a court of law he needed to have two witnesses who agreed to the accusation. He did have any, so sent him, still bound, to Caiaphas. |
| John 1815-18, 25-27 Peter denies Jesus |
When a servant girl of the high priest asked Peter if he was also a disciple, he replied, “I am not.” Then while warming himself by the fire, a relative of Malchus asked him, “Did I not see you in the garden with him?” Peter again denied it, and at once a rooster crowed. John records no further comment, but Mark tells us that Peter broke down and wept when he heard the rooster. (Mk 1472) |
| John 1828 - 1922 Before Pilate |
The priests then took Jesus to Pilate because only The Roman Governor could pronounce a death sentence. They insisted that Pilate came outside to them so that they would not be defiled bu entering his house and thus be unable to eat the Passover. This shows that the ‘last supper’ was the day before the official Jewish Passover, which the priests would eat later that evening. And if the official Passover was on Friday, the official Passover supper would be eaten on Thursday evening. Thus Jesus was crucified on Thursday, not Friday. This also satisfies the truth of being three days and three nights in the heart of the earth. Math 1240 + 2763 It is significant that the Lamb of God was crucified at the same moment that the Jews were slaying their Passover lambs, on Thursday afternoon of Preparation day. 1931 Pilate ask them, “What accusation do you bring against this man?” And when told to judge him by your own law, they replied, “It is not lawful for us to put anyone to death.” Clearly they were not interested in the law but only in the sentence - Death! Pilate took Jesus inside and asked if he was ‘King of the Jews’ and then “What have you done?” Jesus told him, “I have come into the world—to bear witness to the truth.” Indeed he had, but most were interested in miracles rather than truth. Even Pilate dodged the issue by asking, “What is truth?” Did he really want to know that he was a sinner without hope and that Jesus, the Truth, had come to set him free. (See Jn 831-38) So they went back outside and Pilate told them that he had found no guilt in Jesus. They demanded crucifixion. Pilate had Jesus flogged, crowned him with thorns, arrayed him in a purple rode and handed him back to them. They cried again, “Crucify him!”. Eventually Pilate handed him over to be crucified. None of them realised that this was no accident, but fulfilled the agreed and prophesied plan of God. As Isaiah wrote, “My thoughts are not your thoughts neither are my ways, your ways.” Is 556-11 and Is 53 reveal God’s plan. They wasted no time with second thoughts or to seek justice. They crucified him immediately. Much to their annoyance, Pilate wrote the charge against Jesus in three languages, “Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews.” And he had it nailed to the Cross for all to read. That day the world saw justice as no man had ever seen it. The just and declared punishment for sin that is death was executed. It was so from the beginning - “In the day when you eat of it you will surely die.” Gen 217 But the sin for which he died was mine, not his!! Your grace that I cannot explain, Not by my earthly wisdom, The prince of life, without a stain, Was traded for this sinner. |
| John 1913-37 Crucifixion |
When the soldiers stripped Jesus naked, they decided not to tear his seamless tunic, but cast lots for it; not knowing, but fulfilling Ps 2218 His mother was one of the four women standing near the Cross. Jesus managed to say to her, “Woman, behold, your son!” And to John, who was also witnessing his death, he said, “Behold, your mother!” Always filled with compassion for others. Jesus also said, “I thirst.” So they gave him a sponge with sour wine. This fulfilled the scripture Ps 6921 To complete his whole purpose of coming to earth as a man, Jesus cried out, “It is finished,” and he bowed his head and gave up his spirit. So they could celebrate Passover, the Jews asked for the 3 being crucified to have their legs broken. Jesus was already dead so they didn’t need to break his legs. But one of the soldiers pierced his side with a spear, and at once there came out blood and water. Why speared? It proved that he was already dead. These actions also fulfilled the scriptures: Exd 1246 and Zech 1210 |
| John 1938-42 Buried |
Pilate gave permission for Joseph, a secret disciple, to remove the body of Jesus. With the help of Nicodemus they bound him in linen cloths and with 75 lbs of spices. Nearby there was a garden and a new tomb, so they laid Jesus there. Is 539 Unlike the Pharisees, these two were rightly determined to honour the Son of God for three days and three nights after the maximum dishonour of naked crucifixion. |
| John 201-23 Resurrection! |
Mary Magdalene came to the tomb early while it was still dark, and saw that the stone had been taken away from the tomb. So she ran to tell Peter and John that Jesus wasn’t in the tomb. They then ran to the tomb. John who arrived first, saw the linen cloths neatly folded. He didn’t go in until Peter arrived. They saw and believed but they did not yet understand the Scripture that he must rise from the dead. So they went home. Mary stood outside the tomb weeping. But when she looked in, she saw two angels who asked her why she was crying. She turned round and saw a man she took to be the gardener. But it was Jesus, who also asked her, “Woman, why are you weeping. Whom are you seeking?” Then he just said, “Mary.” And she recognised that he was Jesus, who then said to her, “Do not cling to me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father; but go to my brothers and say to them, I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.” Mary then went to the disciples and told them that she had seen the Lord.
That evening all the disciples, except Thomas, were gathered in a room with the door locked. Jesus came and stood among them and said to them, “Peace be with you.” |
| John 2024-31 8 days later |
Thomas was with them and the doors were again locked. Jesus came and stood among them. “Peace be with you,” he said. And he invited Thomas to see the wounds in his hands and side. Thomas believed. Jesus then told Thomas the truth, “Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.” Believing is by revelation rather than by some experience or seeing. As Paul wrote, Faith comes by hearing and hearing by the Word of God. Ro 1017 Nevertheless in the grace of God seeing miracles can be significant in the progress of faith, as John records the many signs that Jesus did. These are written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name. |
| John 211-25 Breakfast by Galilee |
7 of the disciples had gone back to Galilee. They had been fishing all night and caught nothing. A man appeared on the shore and told them to cast the net on the right side of the boat. They took his advice and immediately caught so many fish they couldn’t haul it in. Then John realised who the stranger was. He said to Peter, “It is the Lord!” They managed to drag the net ashore with 153 large fish. The net did not break. They saw that Jesus already had a charcoal fire with fish laid out and bread. He just said, “Come and have breakfast!” When they had finished, Jesus took Peter aside for he knew he was still very distressed about denying him three times. So Jesus gave him the opportunity to say how much he loved Jesus three times. And also made it clear that he had been chosen to do much work for the kingdom of God - “Feed my lambs.” He also told him that he would later have to die for the name of Jesus. And he would not deny him again. Later he would write to the church two letters in which he said, “Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice insofar as you share Christ's sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed.... And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you. 1 Pe 412,13 510 John concludes his gospel - and it is surely very good news - Now there are also many other things that Jesus did. Were every one of them to be written, I suppose that the world itself could not contain the books that would be written. |
Acts [Contents]
The first 12 chapters concern the development of the early Church in Jerusalem led by Peter. Then 13-28 tells of Paul's missionary journeys in Asia minor and the founding of the Jewish / Gentile Church. There are many lesson to learn. As with his Gospel, Dr Luke is determined to record the accurate details of history that would otherwise be lost.
| Acts 11-11 The risen Jesus ascends |
After his suffering, he showed himself to these men (the 11 Apostles) and gave many convincing proofs that he was alive. He appeared to them over a period of forty days and spoke about the kingdom of God. For over 3 years Jesus had carefully led and taught them so much. Now it seemed they were about to be on their own. So Jesus told them: "Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift my Father promised, which you have heard me speak about. For John baptized with water, but in a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit." There was another matter they wanted to know about; when was the Lord God going to overthrow the Romans and establish the Jewish kingdom of God? So they asked him. Jesus told them, "It is not for you to know the times or dates the Father has set by his own authority. But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth." Their responsibility was not the establishment of a Jewish government in Israel, (that would come later) but now their task was to bring salvation to Jerusalem, and 'to the ends of the earth' (the Gentiles). When he had told them this he was lifted up into the sky and a cloud hid him. Suddenly two men dressed in white stood beside them. "Men of Galilee," they said, "why do you stand here looking into the sky? This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen him go into heaven." Now, we still await that great day when the Lord will return as King and establish his righteous kingdom on earth. Significance of the Ascension: 1. Jesus completed his task to Redeem, now King in heaven. Jn 1011-18 2. He returned to heaven to prepare a place for us. Jn 142 3. He is now our successful Advocate in heaven. Heb 725 4. Justice for righteous and the wicked. Tribulation and return as King. Rev 6-19 |
| Acts 112-26 Matthias replaces Judas |
The Apostles returned to Jerusalem and joined together constantly in prayer, along with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brothers. This gender cooperation was quite different from the normal synagogue practice. They were waiting for the promised Holy Spirit to empower and direct them. Criteria for replacement for Judas was that he should have been with them from John's baptism to the Ascension of Jesus - Barsabbas or Matthias. After prayer and casting lots, Matthias chosen. There is no further mention of him in the NT. |
| Acts 21-47 Pentecost |
Pentecost is 50 days after Passover. They were all together when suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them. This was the promised commissioning that they were waiting for. It should be noted that it wasn't the wind or fire that was the most significant on that great day but what happened next. They all started preaching to the zealous Jews who were in Jerusalem for the feast in their own languages. Then Peter addressed the crowd and told them about Jesus who performed many miracles, was crucified and then rose from the dead. "God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Christ." The crowd were strongly convicted by the Holy Spirit and asked what they should do? Peter replied, "Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins." ... With many other words he warned them; and he pleaded with them, "Save yourselves from this corrupt generation." 3,000 were saved that day. This is surely the most significant part of Pentecost, the feast of 'firstfruits'. Jesus promised that they would do 'greater things' because he was going to the Father. (Jn 1412) And it wasn't a 'one day wonder', but the birth of the Church. A birth that changed lives for ever. They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. ... All the believers were together and had everything in common. ... Every day they continued to meet together ... They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favour of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved. There is no doubt they made an excellent start. |
| Acts 31 - 42 Healing and preaching and saving |
One evening when Peter and John went up to the Temple to pray, they met a man who was lame from birth, lying at the Beautiful Gate. He asked for arms. But Peter said, "I have no silver and gold, but what I do have I give to you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk!" Immediately his feet and ankles were made strong. He entered the Temple with them, walking and leaping and praising God. The news spread and an astonished crowd soon gathered. So Peter addressed them boldly: "Men of Israel, why do you wonder at this, ... The God of Abraham, ... glorified his servant Jesus, whom you delivered over ... But you denied the Holy and Righteous One ... and you killed the Author of life, whom God raised from the dead. .... And his name—by faith in his name—has made this man strong ... And now, brothers, I know that you acted in ignorance, ... Repent therefore, and turn back, that your sins may be blotted out ..." The religious leaders were greatly annoyed that they were preaching that Jesus had risen from the dead, so they arrested them. But many of those who had heard the word believed, and the number of the men came to about five thousand. |
| Acts 45-31 Before the Council and afterwards |
Peter and John were asked, "By what power or by what name did you do this?" So Peter told them, "... let it be known to all of you and to all the people of Israel that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified, whom God raised from the dead—by him this man is standing before you well. This Jesus is the stone that was rejected by you, the builders, which has become the cornerstone. And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved." Such boldness astonished the rulers, but they could not deny the healing. So they charged them not to speak or teach at all in the name of Jesus. But Peter and John answered them, "Whether it is right in the sight of God to listen to you rather than to God, you must judge, for we cannot but speak of what we have seen and heard." Of course they repeated their threats but had to release them because all the people were praising God.
The disciples all met together and lifted up their voices ... "Sovereign Lord, who made heaven and earth ... 'Why do the Gentiles rage, and the peoples plot in vain' ... now, Lord, look upon their threats and grant to your servants to continue to speak your word with all boldness, while you stretch out your hand to heal, and signs and wonders are performed through the name of your holy servant Jesus." |
| Acts 432 - 511 Effective socialism |
Those who believed were of one heart and soul, ... they had everything in common.
... There was not a needy person among them. This ideal, radical socialism worked - for a while, but requires massive change in our corrupt nature. Those who have most are reluctant to share all, and those in need start 'demanding their rights'. Only in the kingdom of God will this work perfectly, so we will have to wait patiently for this to be the universal style of life. Even in the early days, almost immediately, one couple pretended to give all, but secretly kept some for themselves. Their lying cost Ananias and Sapphira their lives. So it is not surprising that great fear came upon the whole church. Human weakness meant that this great ideal was soon put 'on hold'. |
| Acts 512-16 All healed |
The apostles performed many miraculous signs and wonders among the people. ... More and more men and women believed in the Lord and were added to their number. ... Crowds gathered also from the towns around Jerusalem, bringing their sick and those tormented by evil spirits, and all of them were healed. |
| Acts 517-42 Apostles arrested |
The religious leaders were filled with jealousy and arrested the apostles. But during the night an angel of the Lord opened the doors of the jail and brought them out. So at daybreak they entered the temple courts and started preaching as the angel had told them. When the Sanhedrin met and sent for the apostles, they weren't there, although the jail was securely locked! Obviously no problem to an angel! Having brought the apostles, they made them appear before the Sanhedrin to be questioned by the high priest. "We gave you strict orders not to teach in this name," he said. "Yet you have filled Jerusalem with your teaching and are determined to make us guilty of this man's blood." Peter and the other apostles replied: "We must obey God rather than men!" The God of our fathers raised Jesus from the dead–whom you had killed ... The Sanhedrin were furious and wanted to put tem to death. But Gamaliel persuaded them that it would not be wise; concluding, "If it is from God, you will not be able to stop these men; you will only find yourselves fighting against God." So they had them flogged and ordered them not to speak in the name of Jesus. The apostles left the Sanhedrin, rejoicing because they had been counted worthy of suffering disgrace for the Name. Day after day, in the temple courts and from house to house, they never stopped teaching and proclaiming the good news that Jesus is the Christ. |
| Acts 61-7 A problem solved |
It wasn't long before problems arose. This one on 'favouritism' was quickly solved. It would be great if all church problems could be dealt with such wisdom and grace. As the church grew the admin load grew so they appointed Stephen, Philip and 5 other men - all known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom, and gave them responsibility. This gave the apostles time to give their attention to prayer and the ministry of the word. So the word of God spread rapidly. And even a large number of priests became obedient to the faith. |
| Acts 68 - 81a Stephen stoned |
Now Stephen, a man full of God's grace and power, did great wonders and miraculous signs among the people. He proved to be much more than your average deacon or administrator. But some of the Jews did not approve and argued against him; but they could not stand up against his wisdom or the Spirit by whom he spoke. So instead of admitting they were wrong, they preferred to clearly break the 9th Commandment. They persuaded other men to give false testimony and witness, "This fellow never stops speaking against this holy place and against the law. For we have heard him say that this Jesus of Nazareth will destroy this place and change the customs Moses handed down to us." This is similar to what Jesus testified when the Jews demanded to know by what authority he had to remove the Temple traders. Jesus answered them, "Destroy this temple, and I will raise it again in 3 days." Neither Jesus nor Stephen were speaking literally (although the temple would be destroyed physically just 40 years later. They both spoke about the temple sacrificial system which Jesus destroyed, or rather fulfilled. His death on the Cross was the one perfect sacrifice for sin which all the earlier sacrificed pointed towards. These were now redundant, destroyed, together with the customs of the law of Moses. The High Priest asked Stephen if this was true, so he replied by giving them a detailed history lesson. They had little clue about the purpose of all their God-planned history. And thus practically no knowledge about the work that Jesus had just "finished". So Stephen 'connected all the dots'. The correct conclusion he came to was: "You stiff-necked people, with uncircumcised hearts and ears! You are just like your fathers: You always resist the Holy Spirit! Was there ever a prophet your fathers did not persecute?" But it didn't stop at all the earlier prophets. What about today? Now? Stephen finished by saying, "They even killed those who predicted the coming of the Righteous One. And now you have betrayed and murdered him!" Not surprisingly, the Sanhedrin were furious. It was they who were being accused, and no longer Stephen, who then cried out, "Look, I see heaven open and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God." So they stoned Stephen. And God ensured that Saul (later Paul) was a witness. |
| Acts 81b-3 Church persecuted |
From that day on persecution broke out against the church at Jerusalem, and all except the apostles were scattered throughout Judea and Samaria. Almighty God decided it was time to start the spread of the Gospel. Saul began to destroy the church. Going from house to house, he dragged off men and women and put them in prison. But God had some surprising plans for this young man that changed the world. |
| Acts 84-8, 26-40 Philip in Samaria and Gaza |
Philip was soon more than an administrator. He went down to a city in Samaria and proclaimed the Christ there. When the crowds heard Philip and saw the miraculous signs he did, they all paid close attention to what he said. ... So there was great joy in that city. One day an angel told him to go to Gaza; so he went. On the way he met an Ethiopian who was returning home in his chariot reading Isaiah aloud. "Do you understand what you are reading?" Philip asked. "How can I," he said, "unless someone explains it to me?" So he invited Philip to come up and sit with him. What an opportunity for Philip to tell him the good news about Jesus. When they came to some water he asked Philip to baptise him. So he did. The Spirit of the Lord suddenly took Philip away. And the Ethiopian went on his way rejoicing. |
| Acts 89-25 A Sorcerer in Samaria |
Simon was a boastful sorcerer in Samaria; the people followed him amazed at his magic. They also came to believe the good news of the kingdom of God that Philip preached, and they were baptised - including Simon. When Peter and John came down to Samaria, they prayed for them and they received the Holy Spirit. Simon offered the apostles money and said, "Give me also this ability so that everyone on whom I lay my hands may receive the Holy Spirit." Peter answered: "May your money perish with you, because you thought you could buy the gift of God with money! You have no part or share in this ministry, because your heart is not right before God. Repent of this wickedness and pray to the Lord. Perhaps he will forgive you for having such a thought in your heart. For I see that you are full of bitterness and captive to sin." There is no record of what became of Simon. But The Lord has written this story so that we may realise that not all miracles are 'of God'. We need discernment. In this case it was made obviously corrupt by his offering of money. |
| Acts 91-19 Saul becomes Paul |
All his life Saul was a 100% zealous man. Whether he was breathing out murderous threats against the Lord's disciples or when he was appointed God's apostle to the Gentiles. This great change is described in detail, and was entirely God's doing. One day on the Damascus road suddenly a light from heaven flashed around him. He fell to the ground and heard a voice say to him, "Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?" Saul was blinded by the light of Jesus and had to be led to the city. Meanwhile the Lord appeared to a disciple in Damascus called Ananias and was told to go to a specific house to find Saul, the renowned murderer of Christians. He rightly questioned if he had heard correctly. The Lord said to Ananias, "Go! This man is my chosen instrument to carry my name before the Gentiles and their kings and before the people of Israel. I will show him how much he must suffer for my name." So Ananias went. Such was his belief in the Lord's word, he said to him, "Brother Saul, the Lord–Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as you were coming here–has sent me so that you may see again and be filled with the Holy Spirit." Immediately Saul could see again, was baptised and regained strength. In the rest of Acts we are shown the wisdom of God's choice and how he transformed and equipped this great missionary. |
| Acts 920-31 Jews try to kill Saul |
In Damascus Saul immediately began to preach in the synagogues that Jesus is the Son of God ... proving that Jesus is the Christ. The Jews conspired to kill him. But Saul heard of their plans and escaped to Jerusalem, where Barnabus brought him to the Apostles. It was not long before Grecian Jews tried to kill him. So again he had to flee; this time to Tarsus. It seems that Saul's zeal led him to be somewhat confrontational! Then the church throughout Judea, Galilee and Samaria enjoyed a time of peace. It was strengthened; and encouraged by the Holy Spirit, it grew in numbers, living in the fear of the Lord. |
| Acts 932-43 Peter in Lydda and Joppa |
Aeneas, a paralytic for 8 years healed. Many turned to the Lord. Then in Joppa, Tabitha (Dorcas) was raised from the dead. And many people believed in the Lord. |
| Acts 101 - 1118 Cornelius - Gospel for Gentiles |
Up to this time the Gospel of Salvation in Christ had only been preached to Jews. How would God open the door for the Gentiles? He had raised up Saul, who was shortly to be sent out. Though 'Apostle to the Gentiles', wherever he went he would always preach to the Jews first. And now the Lord ordered this revelation to Peter. By these two events God marked the beginning of the Christian Church. Cornelius was a devout and God-fearing Roman centurian, to whom God sent an angel. He was told to send for Peter in Joppa. He obeyed. Peter was praying in Joppa and had a vision in which he was told to kill and eat various 'unclean' animals. He questioned this. But was told 3 times "Do not call anything impure that God has made clean." Then the men from Cornelius arrived asking him to return with them to Caesarea. He agreed. Cornelius had gathered many to meet Peter who told them, "God does not show favouritism but accepts men from every nation who fear him and do what is right. You know ... how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and power ... He commanded us to preach to the people and to testify that he is the one whom God appointed as judge of the living and the dead. All the prophets testify about him that everyone who believes in him receives forgiveness of sins through his name." While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit came on all who heard the message. The circumcised believers who had come with Peter were astonished that the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out even on the Gentiles. For they heard them speaking in tongues and praising God. Thus it was that Gentiles were baptised in the name of Jesus Christ and received the Word of God. Peter had some explaining to do to the Jewish church in Judea. They listened to his account of what God had done in Caesarea and their objections disappeared. They praised God and concluded that God has granted even the Gentiles repentance unto life. |
| Acts 1119-30 Gospel in Antioch |
Persecution caused the Gospel to be taken to Jews in Phoenicia and Cyprus. Some also went to Antioch to speak to the Greeks and a great number believed. Jerusalem sent Barnabas to Antioch, who then went to Tarsus to find Saul. Together they preached in Antioch for a whole year. When Agabus prophesied famine, Antioch sent Saul and Barnabas with a gift to Jerusalem. |
| Acts 121-25 Angel rescues Peter and a P.S. |
Herod Agrippa put to death James, the brother of John. When he saw that this pleased the Jews, he proceeded to seize Peter also. And kept him in prison. Almighty God had different plans for Peter so he sent an angel to wake him up and release his chains. Told him to dress and led him out of prison - without alerting any of his guards. The angel opened the city gate and then left him. Peter went to the house where the disciples were praying. They were surprised to see Peter! Herod executed the guards; but it was hardly their fault. Collateral damage. Herod went to Caesarea, where the appeasing, compromising 'loud-mouth' dressed in his royal robes began a speech. He never finished it because an angel of the Lord struck him down, and he was eaten by worms and died. The tasks assigned to angels are seen to be many and various. Some men receive their just reward sooner than others - and that is true for the righteous as well as the wicked. Meanwhile the word of God continued to increase and spread. Barnabas and Saul returned to Antioch from Jerusalem with John Mark. |
| Acts 131-12 Barnabas and Saul - missionaries! And the battle commenced |
While the church in Antioch were worshipping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, "Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them." So the first official missionary journey initiated a new era of world history and the plan of God to establish his kingdom on earth. They sailed to Cypress with John Mark. In Paphos the proconsul wanted to hear the word of God, but a sorcerer opposed them. Saul, (now called Paul), told him that he was going to be blind. Immediately he was. The proconsul believed not because of the sudden blindness but he was amazed at the teaching about the Lord. |
| Acts 1313-52 Pisidian Antioch |
John Mark left them in Perga not because of any doctrinal difference but more probably due to the physical rigours of missionary life. 1536-41) On the Sabbath they entered the synagogue and were invited to speak. There were a number of Gentiles present, so Paul gave them a history of the Jews from Abraham to the promised Jesus, who was not recognised. Yet in condemning him they fulfilled the words of the prophets. They crucified him but God raised him from the dead. ... "Therefore, my brothers, I want you to know that through Jesus the forgiveness of sins is proclaimed to you. Through him everyone who beliees is justified from everything you could not be justified from by the law of Moses." The people invited them to return on the next Sabbath to further explain. A week later almost the whole city gathered to hear the word of the Lord. But the Jews were filled with jealousy and talked abusively against what Paul was saying. So Paul and Barnabas told them boldly: "We had to speak the word of God to you first. Since you reject it and do not consider yourselves worthy of eternal life, we now turn to the Gentiles. For this is what the Lord has commanded us." The Gentiles were delighted. They honoured the word of the Lord; and all who were appointed for eternal life, believed. But the Jews stirred up persecution; so Paul and Barnabas had to leave. |
| Acts 141-7 Iconium |
Paul and Barnabas went as usual into the Jewish synagogue. There they spoke so effectively that a great number of Jews and Gentiles believed. As before some of the Jews refused to believe, but they also stirred up the Gentiles and poisoned the minds of the brothers. It is sad when any man refuses to hear the truth, but to stop others hearing adds an evil dimension. However, Paul and Barnabas continued to speak boldly for the Lord until a plot to stone them caused them to leave the city. |
| Acts 148-20 Lystra |
Paul spoke to the city about Jesus. One man, who listened intently, had never been able to walk. Seeing he had faith Paul told him, "Stand up on your feet!" At that, the man jumped up and began to walk. The crowd called Barabas Zeus and Paul, Hermes. But they immediately insisted that they were only men. Men who are bringing you good news, telling you to turn from these worthless things to the living God, who made heaven and earth. Then some Jews came from Antioch and Iconium ... They stoned Paul and dragged him outside the city thinking he was dead. But he wasn't! Next day they went to Derbe. God obviously had further work for Paul and administered a goodly portion of healing to enable it! |
| Acts 1421a Derbe |
They preached the good news in that city and won a large number of disciples. This short, but good sentence, is all that is recorded about their visit to Derbe. |
| Acts 1421b-28 Return journey |
No one can say that these two preachers lacked grit and determination. They returned to Lystra, Iconium and Antioch, strengthening the disciples and encouraging them to remain true to the faith. 2We must go through many hardships to enter the kingdom of God." In each they appointed elders and with prayer and fasting, committed them to the Lord, in whom they had put their trust. They preached the word in Perga and then sailed from Attalia back to Antioch. It was good to report to the church who had sent them out, for God had done so much and how he had opened the door of faith to the Gentiles. |
| Acts 151-35 Jews and Gentile inclusion |
Details of the missionary journey by Barnabas and Paul reached Jerusalem and alarmed some of the traditionalist Jews who insisted that "Unless you are circumcised, according to the custom taught by Moses, you cannot be saved." So the Antioch church sent Paul and Barnabas to see the apostles and elders. Sadly, it seems that within the church it has always been too easy to quarrel. Why? Peter shows us a good way to solve this problem - and many other similar ones.
He recalls his vision and the inclusion of Cornelius and thereby concludes that "God, who knows the heart, showed that he accepted them by giving the Holy Spirit to them, just as he did to us. He made no distinction between us and them, for he purified their hearts by faith. ... We believe it is through the grace of our Lord Jesus that we are saved, just as they are." |
| Acts 1536-40 Another quarrel |
This time it was between Paul and Barnabas over whether they should risk taking Mark with them on their next missionary journey. On the first journey he had deserted them. Their only agreement was to separate! Barnabas took Mark and sailed to Cyprus. Paul took Silas and went to Syria and Cilicia. |
| Acts 1541 - 165 Timothy joins Paul |
Paul went through Syria and Cilicia, strengthening the churches. In Derbe he met Timothy son of a Jewish mother who was a believer. But his father was a Greek. Paul wanted Timothy to accompany him and he felt it necessary to circumcise him. This seems to contradict his witness to the church in Jerusalem about inclusion of the Gentiles and his brief spat with Peter recorded in Gal 211-21 It would however make it easier as he delivered the letter from Jerusalem. So the churches were strengthened in the faith, and they increased in numbers daily. |
| Acts 166-11 Call to Macedonia |
Going north through Phrygia and Galatia, the Holy Spirit forbade them to speak in Asia and also Bithynia. So they came to Troas where Paul was given a vision of a man from Macedonia who was calling for help. They obeyed and came to Philippi. |
| Acts 1612-40 Philippi |
It seems there was no synagogue in Philippi as Paul went to a place of prayer by the river on the Sabbath and spoke to the women who had gathered there. The Lord opened the heart of Lydia to pay attention to what was said. She was then baptised with her household. As they were going to the place of prayer a demented slave girl kept crying out, "These men are servants of the Most High God, who proclaim to you the way of salvation." She did this for many days until Paul commanded the spirit to come out of her, which it did. Her owners were thus impoverished and dragged Paul and Silas before the magistrates and accused them of advocating unlawful customs. They were beaten and thrown into prison. About midnight they were praying and singing hymns to God, when he suddenly send a great earthquake that opened the prison doors and unfastened all the prisoners bonds. The jailer was about to kill himself but Paul assured him that all the prisoners were still there. The jailer cried, "Sirs, what must I do to be saved?" And they said, "Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household." And they spoke the word of the Lord to him and to all who were in his house. And he took them the same hour of the night and washed their wounds; and he was baptized at once, he and all his family. Then he brought them up into his house and set food before them. And he rejoiced along with his entire household that he had believed in God. Quite a night! It certainly proved the accuracy of the 'Macedonian' vision. The magistrates also had to apologise for illegally beating and imprisoning a Roman citizen without being convicted. After encouraging Lydia the other believers, they departed. |
| Acts 171-9 Thessalonica |
On 3 successive Sabbaths Paul reasoned with the Thessalonians explaining and proving that it was necessary for the Christ to suffer and to rise from the dead, and saying, "This Jesus, whom I proclaim to you, is the Christ." Some were persuaded, as were may devout Greeks. But the Jews were jealous and formed a mob to set the city in an uproar. So once more Paul and Silas had to leave. |
| Acts 1710-15 Berea |
Now these Jews were more noble than those in Thessalonica; they received the word with all eagerness, examining the Scriptures daily to see if these things were so. Many of them therefore believed. It is a vital and noble response to hearing new proclamations, to test them using the Word of God. The proud and jealous Jews in Thessalonica had ceased to search for truth. They demonstrated a bad response when they came and agitated the crowds. So Paul left for Athens, but Silas and Timothy remained in Berea. |
| Acts 1716-34 Athens |
Paul provoked by all the idols in the city. He reasoned with the Jews in the synagogue and with anyone daily in the market place. He was invited to debate his 'new teaching' in the Areopagus. He told them, "The God who made the world and everything in it, being Lord of heaven and earth, does not live in temples made by man. ... now he commands all people everywhere to repent, because he has fixed a day on which he will judge the world in righteousness ..." When Paul told them about the resurrection of the dead some mocked, but some believed. Today humanists mock any idea about a future life, about judgement or the need of forgiveness by Almighty God. Creation by God is ridiculed. Why? Because men refuse to admit they are sinful and object to being told to live a God-defined, righteous life. They are invariably selective about Scripture. |
| Acts 181-17 Corinth |
Aquila and Priscilla had moved to Corinth because Claudius had commanded all the Jews to leave Rome. Paul stayed with these fellow 'tentmakers'. He preached each Sabbath at the synagogue, testifying to the Jews that the Christ was Jesus until they reviled him. Crispus, the ruler of the synagogue, believed in the Lord, together with his entire household. And many of the Corinthians hearing Paul believed and were baptized. The Lord instructed Paul not to be afraid, but to go on preaching because
"I have many in this city who are my people." Paul taught the word of God among them for a further 18 months. Then the Jews made a concerted attack upon Paul, bringing him before the Gallio, the proconsul of Achia. But he made a significant ruling by dismissing the case as it only concerned Jewish law, not Roman law. So Paul was able to stay for many days longer. |
| Acts 1818-23a Returns to Antioch |
Sailed from Corinth with Priscilla and Aquila. When they came to Ephesus, Paul preached in the synagogue and left them there, while he travelled on to Caesarea and finally Antioch where he stayed ''some time'. |
| Acts 1823b - 3rd Journey. Ephesus |
Paul then travelled throughout Galatia and Phrygia, strengthening all the disciples.
Meanwhile Apollos went to Ephesus and spoke well in the synagogue concerning the baptism of John. Priscilla and Aquila were able to explain to him the way of God more accurately. Apollos then went to Achaia where he greatly helped those who through grace had believed, for he powerfully refuted the Jews in public, showing by the Scriptures that the Christ was Jesus. When Paul arrived in Ephesus he was told about the ministry of Apollos (presumably by Priscilla and Aquila) and asked about their baptism. So he told them "John baptized with the baptism of repentance, telling the people to believe in the one who was to come after him, that is, Jesus." On hearing this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. And when Paul had laid his hands on them, the Holy Spirit came on them, and they began speaking in tongues and prophesying. There were about twelve men in all. At least 5 of the apostles were also first baptised by John, then disciples of Jesus for 3½ years and at Pentecost received the Holy Spirit. Now the Ephesians had a similar experience, beginning with Apollos teaching them about John's baptism of repentance followed by Paul laying hands on them. Paul taught in the Ephesian synagogue for 3 months but when some became stubborn and continued in unbelief, speaking evil of the Way, he withdrew from them and took the disciples with him. Paul continued to teach them, Jews and Greeks, for 2 years. |
| Acts 1911-20 Evil spirits and miracles |
God was doing extraordinary miracles by the hands of Paul - healing and deliverance from evil spirits. Some of the itinerant Jewish exorcists undertook to invoke the name of the Lord Jesus over those who had evil spirits. But the evil spirit attacked and wounded them. The name of Jesus cannot be 'used' like this. Many who had become believers came and burned their books valued at 50,000 pieces of silver! So the word of the Lord continued to increase and prevail mightily. |
| Acts 1921-41 Ephesus fiscal riot |
Paul wanted to go to Jerusalem and then Rome, but stayed in Ephesus. The fact that many 'Believers' had turned away from idols was threatening the business of the silversmiths who made the shrines of Artemis. So they launched 'Project fear' on two fronts, their wealth was threatened and Artemis was insulted. An enraged mob was soon raised in the amphitheatre where they shouted, "Great is Artemis of the Ephesians". The town clerk managed to quieten the crowd and persuaded them to settle any dispute in the law courts, else Rome would punish them for rioting. |
| Acts 201-16 Macedonia, Greece, Macedonia |
Paul travelled from Ephesus up the coast to Troas, then across to Macedonia and then down to Corinth, giving each of the churches much encouragement. Then he retraced his journey. No details are recorded till he came to Troas where he preached through the night. One young man fell asleep and fell from a third storey window. Though taken up dead, Paul picked him up and said, "Do not be alarmed, for his life is in him." And indeed, it was! When they had broken bread together, Paul continued speaking until daybreak. Then he sailed on to Miletus |
| Acts 2017-38 Paul with Ephesian elders |
Paul calls Ephesian elders and tells them, "Behold, I am going to Jerusalem, constrained by the Spirit, not knowing what will happen to me there, except that the Holy Spirit testifies to me in every city that imprisonment and afflictions await me. But I do not account my life of any value nor as precious to myself, if only I may finish my course and the ministry that I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God." A brave man, who had suffered much in his ministry (see list in 2 Co 1121-31). And also brave in that he did not shrink from declaring to you the whole counsel of God. He was determined that they should know the whole truth, even when it may have been unpopular. He was very concerned about the future of the church, so he warned them, "Pay careful attention to yourselves and to all the flock, in which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to care for the church of God, which he obtained with his own blood. I know that after my departure fierce wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock; and from among your own selves will arise men speaking twisted things, to draw away the disciples after them. Therefore be alert." It is good record that they obeyed his warning; because when Jesus wrote to the church (probably about 40 years later) he commended them - "I know your works, your toil and your patient endurance, and how you cannot bear with those who are evil, but have tested those who call themselves apostles and are not, and found them to be false...." Paul's labour, prayer and tears were not in vain. |
| Acts 211-16 Journey to Jerusalem |
Paul sailed to Tyre where he stayed a week and they warned him not to go to Jerusalem. In Caesarea he stayed with Philip where Agabus took Paul's belt and tied his hands and feet prophesying that this is what the Jerusalem Jews would do to the owner and then deliver him into the hands of the Gentiles. Paul's response was only to say he was ready not only to be imprisoned but even to die ... for the name of the Lord Jesus. It is not recorded that he gave any specific reason why he felt he had to go to Jerusalem. He obviously wanted to strengthen the Jewish/Gentile churches in the two major capital cities as well as in Asia Minor, Macedonia and Greece. They all had to prepare for attacks by 'savage wolves' (2029) |
| Acts 2117 - 2229 Jerusalem |
The Jerusalem leadership welcomed Paul when they heard what God had done among the Gentiles. But many of the Jewish believers in Jerusalem were 'zealous for the law' and thought Paul had taught all the Jews who were among the Gentiles to forsake Moses, telling them not to circumcise their children. This was a distorted exaggeration. Wherever Paul taught he first went to the synagogue where they usually rejected him. So he formed a group of believers who were a mix of Jews and Gentiles. Paul taught that the Gentile believers did not have to be circumcised (although he did circumcise the Greek Timothy). Gentiles, when they came to believe in Christ, did not become Jews. The Jews in Jerusalem found it difficult to see that their synagogue ministry was similar to the ministry of John Baptist who saw clearly that he had to decrease, while Christ had to increase. Jews, when they became believers, did not cease to be Jews, but become 'completed Jews'. The humility of John enabled him to see clearly what the Jerusalem Jews found so difficult. The Christian church has not replaced the Jewish synagogue, but it is a development of it (not 'from' it) - in the same way that a teenage boy becomes a man. The laws of Moses concerning all the sacrifices all pointed to the sacrifice of Christ. This perfect sacrifice of Christ fulfilled all the imperfect sacrifices that had to be endlessly repeated. Paul and the leaders in Jerusalem saw clearly how Almighty God was now including Gentiles to be part of the 'chosen people'. But many saw it more as a 'take over'. So, not surprisingly, it frightened them. Some of their ancient traditions had been fulfilled; it was a time of great change. And change requires courage and faith ( a mix of hope and trust). Just as when a man and a woman are married; both have to be willing to change. It requires the same courage, faith, grace and humility. To demonstrate that Paul still kept 'the Law', the leaders asked him to join 4 other men who were under a vow (not explained), who had to shave their heads in the Temple. Paul agreed. But after a week some Jews from Asia accused Paul of defiling the Temple by taking in a Gentile. They dragged him out of the Temple and sought to kill him. He was 'rescued' by the arm of the law - Roman soldiers. The brave evangelist successfully pleaded with the soldiers to be allowed to speak to the crowd. He testified about his origin, the experience of meeting Jesus on the road to Damascus and being sent to the Gentiles. At this point the crowd erupted, so the Tribune took Paul into the barracks and ordered that he should be examined by flogging. Rough justice! But Paul told him that he was born a Roman citizen, as well as being a Jew. So he was then treated differently. |
| Acts 2230 - 2335 Paul accused |
The tribune desiring to know the real reason why he was being accused by the Jews
called the Sanhedrin. He only spoke but one sentence before the High Priest ordered him to be struck. So Paul's 2nd sentence was, "God is going to strike you, you whitewashed wall! ..." Now Paul realised that the council was half Sadducees and half Pharisees, he said, "It is with respect to the hope and the resurrection of the dead that I am on trial." As expected, this caused a riot among the council. End of trial. The following night the Lord stood by him and said, "Take courage, for as you have testified to the facts about me in Jerusalem, so you must testify also in Rome." Meanwhile the Jews plotted to kill him - as they had also plotted against Jesus. Their plot was revealed to the son of Paul's sister, who told Paul, who told the Tribune. So he was taken under strong escort to Caesarea. |
| Acts 241-27 Paul before Felix |
After 5 days Ananias came and delivered a typically smooth 'political' accusation.
Paul was a ringleader who stirs up riots wherever he goes. Paul then refuted that he had caused any riot and came only to present offerings sent to the church. He then repeated that the accusation was because he preached about the resurrection of the dead. Felix, having a Jewish wife, knew about the Christian 'Way' and deferred the trial until Lysias came down. After some days Paul had the opportunity to tell Felix about faith in Christ Jesus. And he reasoned about righteousness and self-control and the coming judgement. Felix was alarmed and said, "Go away for the present. When I get an opportunity I will summon you." This was the ultimate put-off - Paul in prison for 2 years. |
| Acts 251-12 Paul choses trial by Caesar |
Festus succeeded Felix and went up to Jerusalem where the chief priests laid out their case against Paul. Returning to Caesarea the Jews brought many charges against Paul, but none of which they could prove. When offered a trial in Jerusalem Paul said, "I am standing before Caesar's tribunal, where I ought to be tried. To the Jews I have done no wrong, as you yourself know very well. ... I appeal to Caesar." |
| Acts 2513 - 2632 Before King Agrippa |
Festus tells king Agrippa about this puzzling case that has no Roman charges. Agrippa is intrigued. Paul tells him in detail how he became a believer in Christ. Finally he asks plainly, "King Agrippa, do you believe the prophets?" To which he made the well known reply, "In a short time would you persuade me to be a Christian?" Then he said to Festus, "This man could have been set free if he had not appealed to Caesar." True; but the Jerusalem Jews would have continued their plotting until they killed him - as they had killed Jesus! Besides, Paul also wanted to go to Rome to preach there. |
| Acts 271-44 Voyage, storm, shipwreck |
The early part of the voyage to Cyprus and Crete was slow - God sent contrary winds. Then it was too late, but they took no notice of Paul's advice to wait till the Spring. A storm overwhelmed them - again sent by God, who revealed to Paul that although the ship and cargo would be lost, all 276 people on the ship would be saved. And so it proved to be. The ship was wrecked off a beach in N. Malta - now called St Pauls Bay. Sometimes God reveals the future to godly men. In the chaos of the modern world, the Word of God is a far better guide than the Media. But beware of false prophets who distort its truth. It is always better to know what is written in Scripture, rather than what men say they think or say is written. |
| Acts 281-10 Malts |
The Maltese were kind and kindled a fire. A snake fastened on Paul's hand, so they thought he must be a murderer. When he didn't die they thought he must be a god!
Of course he was neither, but such is the way of superstitious people. The father of the island chief was sick with fever and dysentery. Paul came and prayed for him and he was healed. So were many of the other diseased people. He had to stay with his Roman guard for 3 months while the ships wintered, but there is no record of Paul preaching, nor of any who became believers. |
| Acts 2811-30 Rome |
When we came into Rome, Paul was allowed to stay by himself, with the soldier who guarded him. Paul explained why he had to appeal to Caesar, although there was no charge against him. No letters had been received from Judea, and brothers had spoken out against him. "But we desire to hear from you what your views are, for with regard to this sect we know that everywhere it is spoken against." What an opportunity. So from morning till evening he expounded to them, testifying to the kingdom of God and trying to convince them about Jesus both from the Law of Moses and from the Prophets. Some Jews were convinced, but others were not. Therefore Paul declared that Isaiah was right when he said, "Go to this people, and say, 'You will indeed hear but never understand, and you will indeed see but never perceive'. ... Therefore let it be known to you that this salvation of God has been sent to the Gentiles; they will listen." Paul remained in Rome for 2 years proclaiming the kingdom of God and teaching about the Lord Jesus Christ with all boldness and without hindrance. Luke says nothing more about Paul, Peter nor about any further Church history. |
Romans [Contents]
Why did Paul write to the church in Rome? It was predominantly Gentile, but there was also a substantial Jewish minority. He needed to ensure that their foundations concerning salvation were accurate and that they knew the truth about God's plan for both Jews and Gentiles. This letter provides a proven path to all who seek salvation and desire to understand the prophetic and faithful way of the Lord.
| Romans 11-7 Introduction |
Paul had not been to Rome so introduces himself with a brief CV: 1. A servant of Christ Jesus 2. Called to be an apostle 3. Set apart for the gospel of God. And the basis of all the truth that he taught was: a. Through his prophets in the Holy Scriptures b. Fulfilled by the coming of the Son of God by his resurrection from the dead. Then he reveals the purpose of this letter and his whole ministry: Through him and for his name's sake, we received grace and apostleship to call people from among all the Gentiles to the obedience that comes from faith. It was written to: those who are called to belong to Jesus Christ. ... and called to be saints: In order that they may receive Grace and peace ... from God ... and Jesus Christ. Many people live their lives focussed only on this world. Paul's great longing was that such men may seek the Creator of this world and believe that Christ alone can open the gate that leads to righteousness and eternal life. |
| Romans 18-17 Why Paul wanted to go to Rome |
Paul continually prayed for the church in Rome. He wanted their faith to be strong; encouraged and able to stand when confronted by the enemy. The gospel ... is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes. And Paul was keen for the church to experience this 'power of God'. He then adds that it is first for the Jew, then for the Gentile. Although he was the Apostle for the Gentiles he made clear the priority of God's plan. Wherever he ministered he always went first to the Jews; even though they largely rejected him. He tells them why they reject the Gospel - and it is the same for Gentiles, then and now. For in the gospel a righteousness from God is revealed, a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: "The righteous will live by faith." Righteousness is revealed, not earned by good works. It is God's gift to those who believe, who have faith in what only Christ could do for us. No man is able to offer a perfect sacrifice, Jew or Gentile; but this is what the crucified Christ did for us. This truth will be the foundation of his letter to Rome - and to all who seek the Lord God, plead for forgiveness and desire to live a righteous life. |
| Romans 118-32 Why is God so angry with men? |
The wrath of God is being revealed from heaven against all the godlessness and wickedness of men. To begin a letter with such a statement is rare today. Most writers start with the love of God - usually stay with it. But God's wrath is being revealed in world events and the behaviour of men; so it must be faced honestly. What makes God angry? Men suppress the truth by their wickedness. How exactly? Because they deny God's creation and instead proclaim the lie that all life just evolved! Ridiculous. For since the creation of the world God's invisible qualities–his eternal power and divine nature–have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made. Deceived men prefer to deny such abundance of evidence. Such a choice has two clear disastrous results: 1. Their thinking became futile and their foolish hearts were darkened. ... They exchanged the truth of God for a lie. 2. Almighty God is angry with such men. God gave them over to shameful lusts. Even their women exchanged natural relations for unnatural ones. In the same way the men also abandoned natural relations with women and were inflamed with lust for one another. Men committed indecent acts with other men, and received in themselves the due penalty for their perversion. Furthermore, since they did not think it worthwhile to retain the knowledge of God, he gave them over to a depraved mind. This warning from God, written by Paul nearly 2,000 years ago, is being more clearly fulfilled today than ever before. It is a complete disgrace that a majority of church leaders now endorse the homosexual and lesbian 'perversion' even saying we have much to learn from their love for one another!! In this passage it is repeated three times that 'God gave them over to ...'. He removed his protection and Satan has not been slow to take full advantage of it. Few Christians have realised the connection between believing the Evolution Theory lie and legalising homosexuality. Having a depraved mind does not end there. Paul warns us that they have become filled with every kind of wickedness, evil, greed and depravity. They are full of envy, murder, strife, deceit and malice. They are gossips, slanderers, God-haters, insolent, arrogant and boastful; they invent ways of doing evil; they disobey their parents; they are senseless, faithless, heartless, ruthless. Although they know God's righteous decree that those who do such things deserve death, they not only continue to do these very things but also approve of those who practice them. Therefore we should not be surprised when the media delight to report such acts. Is there any answer to this depressing scene? Yes, indeed there is. Paul continues in the rest of the letter to address God's resolution. |
| Romans 21-16 Warning about judging others, and judgement of all sin |
In case there are some who judge others thinking they are without sin, Paul adds this warning. At whatever point you judge the other, you are condemning yourself, because you who pass judgment do the same things in that no man is able to keep all God's commands all of the time. Remember God's kindness leads you toward repentance. We are in trouble if it doesn't. 1. God's judgment against those who do such things is based on truth. Only God sees what is hidden. Men often make untrue presumptions. 2. There will be trouble and distress for every human being who does evil. Unless our sin is covered by the blood of Jesus. 3. To those who by persistence in doing good seek glory, honour and immortality, he will give eternal life. 4. This will take place on the day when God will judge men's secrets through Jesus Christ. And Paul again emphasises the principle concerning judgement (twice) First for the Jew, then for the Gentile. ... For it is not those who hear the law who are righteous in God's sight, but it is those who obey the law. |
| Romans 217 - 38 Jews, the Law and circumcision |
If you call yourself a Jew; if you rely on the law and brag about your relationship to God; ... do you dishonour God by breaking the law? Circumcision has value if you observe the law. A man is a Jew if he is one inwardly; and circumcision is circumcision of the heart. The Jews remain the chosen people and God is always faithful to his covenant. But there is no short cut to heaven for Jews. The law points directly to the need for a perfect sacrifice because however zealous a man may be, he will inevitably break the law and thus need redemption. As Paul would later tell the Galatians, for Jews and Gentiles the law is our schoolmaster to lead us to Christ. Gal 324 This was true for the Romans, and it is true for churchgoers. Being circumcised or attending church may be an advantage, but neither can save a soul that needs forgiveness. What advantage, then, is there in being a Jew, or what value is there in circumcision? Much in every way! First of all, they have been entrusted with the very words of God. The advantage is thus one of opportunity to hear God's truth. But the word of God must be believed and acted upon. It has no value if it only gather dust on a bookshelf. So Paul asks them, What if some did not have faith? Will their lack of faith nullify God's faithfulness? Not at all! He then continues to instruct us about faith; about God's offer of salvation and our need to grasp this gracious opportunity. |
| Romans 39-31 All have sinned Righteousness by faith in Christ |
Jews and Gentiles alike are all under sin. Therefore no one will be declared righteous in his sight by observing the law; rather, through the law we become conscious of sin. Let us therefore be grateful to God for giving us the Law. It makes us increasingly aware that we need the forgiveness of Almighty God. Paul does not leave us crying; he tells us how our guilty conscience can be relieved. But now a righteousness from God, apart from law, has been made known ... we are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus. God presented him as a sacrifice of atonement, through faith in his blood. It is vital for us to know what we have faith for, what we believe: 1. All have sinned - and I am definitely not an exception. 2. Sin makes God angry, and his being holy he cannot relate to sinners. 3. No man is able to keep the Law or make himself righteous. 4. The Law and the Prophets both testify to the coming of the Son of God, who would offer himself the only perfect sacrifice for my sin. Now Paul is able to proclaim that Jesus Christ has come and paid the price of our redemption in full. This is the truth preached here, faith in Jesus Christ who did what we could not do. There is only one God, who will justify the circumcised by faith and the uncircumcised through that same faith. Jews and Gentiles both sin; both are condemned and both can only be saved by this same faith in Christ crucified. Do we, then, nullify the law by this faith? Not at all! Rather, we uphold the law. For the Law makes us conscious of sin and its consequence, and the same Law and Prophets reveal God's remedy; faith in his 'full, perfect and sufficient sacrifice'. As John Baptist, the greatest of the prophets proclaimed when he saw Jesus, "Behold! The Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!" Jn 129 (NKJV) |
| Romans 41-25 Consider Abraham, the father of faith |
If, in fact, Abraham was justified by works, he had something to boast about–but not before God. What does the Scripture say? "Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness." If a man were able to gain righteousness by works then it would be an earned payment, but it is always an undeserved gift of God. The man who trusts God to justify the wicked is like David who said, "Blessed are they whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered." Ps 321 Furthermore is this forgiveness and righteousness only for the circumcised? No. Abraham was still uncircumcised when he was made righteous, so he is the father of all who believe, both Jews and Gentiles. It was not through law that Abraham and his offspring received the promise that he would be heir of the world, but through the righteousness that comes by faith. ... As it is written: "I have made you a father of many nations." Indeed to all who have faith, who believe in him who raised Jesus our Lord from the dead. He was delivered over to death for our sins and was raised to life for our justification. Such is the bountiful grace God. So remember well that night when Abraham looked up and wondered at all the stars and how he believed when God told him that the stars were like all his descendants from all the nations of the world. What do you see in the night sky? Do you see God's faithfulness and mercy to all who seek him. Do you believe his revealed truth, his offer of forgiveness and his gift of righteousness? |
| Romans 51-11 Peace with God and saved from God's wrath |
Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. 'Therefore' is a common and important word in Paul's writing. On this occasion it follows the statement that Jesus was crucified and raised. (see previous section.) He then reminds them that he also knew from experience that having faith in Jesus will inevitably lead to persecution. But we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us ... Our rejoicing is on account that we are continually reminded that: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. And having been justified by his blood, how much more shall we be saved from God's wrath through him! We also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation. Let us not forget these truths when we experience difficulties. |
| Romans 512-21 Death through Adam and sin, Life through Christ |
Sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, and in this way death came to all men, because all sinned. Adam and Eve passed on their sinful nature to all succeeding generations. The judgment followed one sin and brought condemnation, but the gift followed many trespasses and brought justification. However the gift of righteousness and life offered by the one perfect man, Christ Jesus, is different from the sin of one man, Adam. It is not given to all men. |
| Romans 61-14 With Christ in his death and in his resurrection |
All of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death ... And If we have been united with him like this in his death, we will certainly also be united with him in his resurrection. Our old self was crucified with him so that the body of sin might be done away with. The simple and yet most profound conclusion is this: If we died with Christ, we believe that we will also live with him. ... Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body. Alone, this is impossible; but with Christ, earnestly let him make it possible. Jesus! The prisoner's fetters breaks And bruises Satan's head; Power into strengthless souls it speaks And life into the dead. |
| Romans 615-23 Set free to live a holy and eternal life |
Knowing the grace of God's forgiveness have led some to view sin too casually. But some in 'following Jesus' have never truly realised the wages of sin. 1. Never forget the Cross was what it cost Jesus. 2. Our gratitude for the relief from the burden of sin makes us earnest to be holy. You have been set free from sin and have become slaves to righteousness. ... the benefit you reap leads to holiness, and the result is eternal life. For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. |
| Romans 71-25 Sin, death, the Law and God's rescue |
You also died to the Law through the body of Christ ... in order that we might bear fruit to God. We are thus released from the condemnation of death by the law, but we remain subject to the Law's commandments, bound to him who raised us from the dead to life. Life that reveals sin as utterly sinful. Thus within us a spiritual battle rages. In my inner being I delight in God's law; but I see another law at work in the members of my body, waging war against the law of my mind and making me a prisoner of the law of sin at work within my members. What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body of death? Thanks be to God–through Jesus Christ our Lord! The Lord God assures us that the day will come when this battle will be over. For in that day his victory will be completed and even temptation will cease for ever. But until that day, how shall we live? Paul now instructs us: |
| Romans 81-17 No Condemnation Controlled by the Spirit of God |
Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life set me free from the law of sin and death. This statement of truth brings such relief; it reveals the extent of God's kindness and grace. It does not mean that sin doesn't matter, but that it is forgiven at great cost. It directs and encourages us towards truth and righteousness. Those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires ... he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through his Spirit, who lives in you. What could be better than this? |
| Romans 818-27 Groaning will turn to glory |
The creation itself will be liberated from its bondage to decay and brought into the glorious freedom of the children of God. ... We groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for our adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies. Nevertheless as we wait patiently the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express. For instance we groan that the UK remains tied by wicked leaders to the evil EU and plead that in God's mercy he will release us. But it may be that it is the just outcome for our Government has recently passed many ungodly laws. (See notes on Ro 1) |
| Romans 828-39 The believer's relationship with God is unbreakable |
Those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the likeness of his Son. Therefore, since this is the declared plan of Almighty God: 1. There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. 81 2. In all things God works for the good of those who love him. So that we may keep on growing to be more like Jesus. 3. Who will bring any charge against those whom God has chosen? 4. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Nothing and no one! 5. In all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. This chapter is intended to encourage us! |
The church in Rome was a mix of Jews and Gentiles. In these next 3 chapters (9-11) Paul examines if the Jewish rejection of Christ has ended or transferred God's covenant with Abraham. It is a vital part of scripture that will enable us to better understand God's plan for the 'last days'. Sadly, it is often omitted from the teaching of the church today.
| Romans 91-29 God's right to choose |
Paul first reveals his longing for his fellow Jews to be saved. I have great sorrow ...
for the people of Israel. Theirs is the adoption as sons; theirs the divine glory, the covenants, the receiving of the law, the temple worship and the promises. Theirs are the patriarchs, and from them is traced the human ancestry of Christ ... But from the start not all Abraham's descendants would be 'the children of promise'. God promised Abraham, "It is through Isaac that your offspring will be reckoned." Not through Ishmael. Furthermore Isaac had two sons, Jacob and Esau. But it is written: "Jacob I loved, but Esau I hated." Even before they were born, they fought in Rebekah's womb! It was, and remains the truth that as God told Moses, "I will have mercy on whom I have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I have compassion." The choice of Almighty God is always just, for he knows all the future!
So we see that God withdraws his mercy from some descended from Abraham; and he includes others (Gentiles) that are not descended from Abraham. Paul then quotes: As he says in Hosea: "I will call them 'my people' who are not my people. ... they will be called 'sons of the living God.' "
Paul yearned that his fellow Jews, who though of 'the chosen race', had yet to obtain the mercy of God and be saved. He sees the truth of God revealed by Isaiah, "Though the number of the Israelites be like the sand by the sea, only the remnant will be saved." |
| Romans 930 - 1021 Many Jews 'Stumble' |
They stumbled because they thought they could achieve righteousness by keeping the law. They did not realise that their own Scriptures say: "Anyone who trusts in him will never be put to shame." and "Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved." Though zealous for God all their efforts and sacrifices could never be the perfect offering for sin that God requires. They saw no need for a Saviour. So they did not trust in Jesus or call upon him. To be saved, all men need to hear and believe this truth. For faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word of Christ. Paul continued to pray to God for his people, though he had to conclude: But concerning Israel he (quoting Isaiah) says, "All day long I have held out my hands to a disobedient and obstinate people." |
| Romans 111-36 All Israel will be saved. Many Church leaders need to read and believe this chapter. |
Did this mean that God had finished with the Jews, that his covenant with Abraham was over. Paul writes, I ask then: Did God reject his people? By no means!
Sadly, many Jews (and Gentiles!) over the last 2,000 years have remained stubborn, but Almighty God will never break his covenant with the Jewish people. Paul raises the case of Elijah, who thought he was the only one left; he wasn't. What was God's answer to him? "I have reserved for myself seven thousand who have not bowed the knee to Baal." There was and is still a remnant chosen by grace.
Again I ask: Did they stumble so as to fall beyond recovery? Not at all!
Consider therefore the kindness and sternness of God. ... for God is able to graft them in again. ... and how much more readily will these, the natural branches, be grafted into their own olive tree!
And so all Israel will be saved, as it is written:
This is just the start of the fulfillment of God's revelation to Zechariah:
Very soon we will also see the many Biblical prophecies of the last days come to pass. The intense, but brief Great Tribulation will come, and end, when all the wicked nations of the world will try to exterminate Israel. But Christ will return to Jerusalem as King. He will fight for his chosen people and establish his righteous kingdom. What a day that will be! (See 'Israel and the Church in the Last Days') |
In the concluding 5 chapters of Romans, Paul applies the truths he has taught to practical living. God's truth must affect our daily behaviour and our relationship with others.
| Romans 121,2a Be Transformed |
In view of God's mercy ... If all our thoughts and decisions are flavoured with an awareness of the extent of God's mercy towards us, life on this planet would be greatly improved. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Advertising reveals much about the 'pattern of the world', what it appeals to, how it tempts us and tries to direct our actions. It is very rare that adverts are righteous. The world's standards, 'what everyone does' is nearly always contrary to the ways of Almighty God. Our behaviour usually starts in the mind. As someone said, "What a man thinks, that is what he is or what he will soon become." Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable–if anything is excellent or praiseworthy–think about such things. Phil 48 In his letter to the Galatians Paul compares 'the acts of the sinful nature' with the 'fruit of the Spirit'. Gal 519-23 Then he concludes: Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires. Gal 524 This must be the basis of being transformed. Remember, that the work God has begun in us he will complete. Phil 16 |
| Romans 122b-21 What transformation leads to |
1. You will be able to test and approve what God's will is. And you will find it pleasing and perfect. 2. Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought. Meekness and humility before God and men is a godly characteristic. 3. In Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. We have different gifts. So it's good to respect and enjoy our mutual dependence upon one another. 4. Love must be sincere. See 1 Co 131-13 5. Bless those who persecute you. Avoid all thoughts about revenge. Listen to the last words of the Reformation martyrs. 6. Overcome evil with good. An excellent and practical objective. |
| Romans 131-7 Submit to Government |
Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. ... For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Is this always so? Are there limits? Paul did not obey Caesar when he commanded that all men worship him. Neither did Daniel's friends in Babylon. Pay taxes, observe speed limits etc yes; but I will not agree to teaching children that homosexuality is normal and good, or allow abortion murder without protest, or that Evolution Theory is anything but a blasphemous lie. |
| Romans 138 - 1513 Various practical instructions |
Let no debt remain outstanding. Excessive borrowing causes inflation / instability. Keep the commandments and love your neighbour. Understand the present time. ... because our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed. The night is nearly over; the day is almost here. Accept him whose faith is weak, without passing judgment on disputable matters. The kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. Everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him. |
| Romans 1514-33 Paul's desire to go to Rome |
From Jerusalem all the way around to Illyricum, I have fully proclaimed the gospel of Christ. It has always been my ambition to preach the gospel where Christ was not known. ... This is why I have often been hindered from coming to you. ... I know that when I come to you, I will come in the full measure of the blessing of Christ. ... Pray that I may be rescued from the unbelievers in Judea ... so that by God's will I may come to you. |
| Romans 161-27 Final greetings and a warning |
Paul lists 27 friends sends them greetings and commendations. Then he gives a warning: Watch out for those who cause divisions and put obstacles in your way ... By smooth talk and flattery they deceive the minds of naive people. 8 others also send their greetings, and he ends: Now to him who is able to establish you by my gospel and the proclamation of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery hidden for long ages past, but now revealed and made known through the prophetic writings by the command of the eternal God, so that all nations might believe and obey him– to the only wise God be glory forever through Jesus Christ! Amen. Throughout his ministry Paul's great desire was that all nations might believe the scriptures and that the revelation of Jesus Christ would enable them to be saved and thus obey the eternal God. |
1 Corinthians [Contents]
Corinth had a reputation for sexual immorality, religious diversity, and corruption. Paul addresses problems that divided the church - spiritual gifts, marriage, food offered to idols, and the resurrection. Written while in Ephesus in 55 AD.
| 1Co 11-3 Introduction |
1. Paul, called by the will of God to be an apostle of Christ Jesus. It was important for the Corinthians to know that the author of this letter was an apostle, called not by his decision, but by Christ himself. It thus had undebatable authority. 2. The letter was addressed to the church of God ... to those sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints, not to unbelievers. This would remind them that the church belonged to God, not to any particular leader. It also reminded them that they were called to be sanctified saints, in contrast to the generally immoral population. 3. He wanted them to live in the grace and peace from Almighty God whose revealed truth and presence was not to be continually argued and squabbled about. |
| 1Co 14-9 In Christ Jesus |
Paul immediately lays the foundation for this letter; Christians are ‘in Christ Jesus’. He gives thanks because of the grace of God that was given you in Christ Jesus. They lacked nothing as you wait for the revealing of our Lord Jesus Christ. They are called into the fellowship of his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. All the problems that prompted this letter were caused by the common failure to realise that Jesus Christ must be central in every aspect of our lives. |
| 1Co 110-31 Church divisions |
Paul had learned that the there was quarrelling concerning the leadership - some followed Paul, some Cephas and some Christ! It seems to have been largely based upon who baptised them. But with one exception, Paul did not baptise, and Christ obviously didn’t. So what really divided them? Then, as also now, the vital issue was the power and necessity of the Cross to enable our redemption. This was being ignored, or at least put on one side and largely forgotten,
For the word of the cross is folly to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. Paul then make a generalised statement that for salvation Jews looks for signs (miracles) to prove truth, and Greeks sought wisdom, what seemed wise to their minds. But we preach Christ crucified. Many believe that Jesus was crucified - then and in church today; but what really matters is why he had to die. Propitiation, the appeasement of God’s justified wrath for our sin, is vital for our forgiveness. If we are unwilling to admit our natural sinfulness, then Christ did not need to die, and his crucifixion was just an unfortunate event. So to the Jews it was unnecessary and to the Greeks it seemed foolish. Today it seems both, although it does show that he loves us. To Christians the Cross of Christ reveals both the wisdom and the power of God to achieve the forgiveness of our sin. It was the very reason he came as a man to redeem his creation. What seems foolish, or at least unnecessary to many, is actually the wisdom of God, promised from the beginning. Gen 315b, 21 Is 53 etc The Jews wanted a victorious ‘David’ type king, Greeks wanted a ‘Solomon’ wise man; but God wanted to give us a Saviour. Who was the wisest? ! Thankfully God chose what is low and despised in the world ... And because of him you are in Christ Jesus, who became to us wisdom from God, righteousness and sanctification and redemption. So why do you quarrel? Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord. Not man’s wisdom. |
| 1Co 21-5 Central message |
Paul most important theme to preach was Jesus Christ and him crucified. Why? So that your faith might not rest in the wisdom of men but in the power of God. How does this compare with the most common message of the Church in UK now? Surprisingly the power of God is displayed by Christ being willing to die; and then being raised by the Father. This proved heaven’s approval that his work on earth was complete. The one and only perfect sacrifice for sin was fully accepted. Many modern preachers ‘airbrush’ sin and its consequences. Unlike Paul, they fail to realise the prime need for sin to be forgiven - and thus the reason for the Christ to be crucified. He made this central in his preaching to the Corinthians; and to us! |
| 1Co 26-16 Wisdom revealed |
Paul imparts truth that is different from Greek wisdom or all modern wisdom and technology that are doomed to pass away. But we impart a secret and hidden wisdom of God. God’s wisdom is hidden. None of the rulers of this age understood this. When, and to whom is it revealed? How can man even begin to comprehend the wisdom of God who designed and created all things and life? Now we have received not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we might understand the things freely given us by God. ... The natural person does not accept the things of the Spirit of God, for they are folly to him. Pride is the greatest natural barrier. All men need to be humbled. Almighty God has many means of doing this. Personal or natural disaster, failure, revelation of his Word, the fear of the Lord, the wonder of Creation, even kindness. Each can enable a man to see his need of God and his forgiveness. This is the principal ministry of the Spirit of God - revelation of truth. |
| 1Co 31-23 Foundations |
Although Paul had laid a good foundation in Corinth, others had built badly upon it by introducing jealousy and strife. So he tells them that “You are still of the flesh.” He also warns them that fire will test what sort of work each one has done. The Word of God is not to be debated; it is the truth that needs to be revealed. Their leaders were contesting with each other, pretending to be wise. But the wisdom of this world is folly with God. ... So let no one boast in men. And then people questioned who was the best leader. But Believers to not belong to men but to Christ. Do you not know that you are God's temple and that God's Spirit dwells in you? ... God's temple is holy. |
| 1Co 41-21 As servants of Christ |
Paul was not claiming power and authority as many leaders do, but he wanted the Corinthians to see him as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God. He wanted them to refrain from being puffed up in favour of one against another. In comparison We are fools for Christ's sake, but you are wise in Christ. We are weak, but you are strong. You are held in honour, but we in disrepute. ... For the kingdom of God does not consist in talk but in power. So beware of those who just ‘talk’. |
| 1Co 51-13 Purge evil in the Church |
Paul had heard about immorality in the church in Corinth - for a man has his father's wife. How were they to deal with this? Paul’s instruction was alarming then, and even more so today. You are to deliver this man to Satan for the destruction of the flesh, so that his spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord. And he also tells them not to associate with any in the church who are sexually immoral, greedy, idolaters or drunkards. God judges those outside. “Purge the evil person from among you.” Church leaders are now usually most unwilling to ‘purge’ any in the church or criticise any immorality outside it; they consider it is most unloving and judgmental ! Both Archbishops in UK declare that the church has much to learn from the love relationship of two homosexuals. But to God it remains an abomination. To our great shame, UK parliament legalised homosexuality in 1967 and same-sex marriage in 2014. Ro 1 reveals that this is largely the direct result of discarding God as Creator, and the teaching of the Evolution Theory as truth. |
| 1Co 61-11 Lawsuits and inheritance |
There were disputes within the church (presumably about land or finance). Paul tells them it is better to suffer loss than to air your grievance. He then compares this with the kingdom of God that the saints inherit and reminds them that though they were once unrighteous, but now the saints were washed, sanctified and justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. He tells them: Do not be deceived: neither the sexually immoral, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor men who practice homosexuality, nor thieves, nor the greedy, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God. |
| 1Co 612-19 Immorality |
Paul returns to the Corinthian problem of sexual immorality by asking them, “Do you not know that your bodies are members of Christ?” Intercourse makes the two one body. Therefore, Flee from sexual immorality (that is sex outside of marriage). And remember, You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. |
| 1Co 71-40 Marriage |
This chapter has caused considerable misunderstanding. Paul commends marriage of one man and one woman and also for a few to remain single to better enable missionary work. If one should become a Christian, this does not give grounds for divorce. His controversial summary is: He who marries his betrothed does well, and he who refrains from marriage will do even better. The Roman Catholics foolishly misinterpret this to forbid its clergy to marry. Down the centuries this has caused many clergy to have a ‘mistress’, or worse to practice abuse. Paul does not emphasise the undoubted beauty and value to the church of God ordained marriage. |
| 1Co 81-13 Food offered to idols |
There is only one God. All other gods as false. In Corinth the slaughtering of animals involved idol worship. So Paul said, Therefore, if food makes my brother stumble, I will never eat meat, lest I make my brother stumble. Today there are other reasons why some have decided not to eat meat; and it does not usually involve idols. |
| 1Co 91-27 Paul’s goal |
Having founded the church in Corinth, Paul had a right to care for it and the church had an obligation to heed his words. He quotes Deut 254 You shall not muzzle an ox when it is treading out the grain. And then tells them: If we have sown spiritual things among you, is it too much if we reap material things from you? But he adds that he is not claiming any such lawful expectation. His one hope is that in preaching the gospel I might save some. I do it all for the sake of the gospel, that I may share with them in its blessings. And he is determined and disciplined lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified. |
| 1Co 101-33 A historical warning |
Paul recites history as a warning against idolatry. After deliverance from slavery in Egypt the Israelites were punished and had to wander in the wilderness for 40 years because they disobeyed Almighty God. Do not be idolaters as some of them were; as it is written, “The people sat down to eat and drink and rose up to play. ... We must not put Christ to the test, as some of them did. ... Therefore let anyone who thinks that he stands take heed lest he fall. And he concludes: Therefore, my beloved, flee from idolatry. But there has always been an inclination for proud men to think that they are wiser than their predecessors and can therefore bypass God’s commandments and not be punished. (See example in notes on 1Co 5 above.) Paul gives assurance to those who are earnest in their desire to serve God in holiness. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it. But we must desire to escape and overcome the temptation, not just to be spared the punishment that follows disobedience. The final word on the problem of eating meat that has been offered to idols is: All things are lawful,” but not all things are helpful. ... So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God. Give no offense to Jews or to Greeks. Beware of any who distort the context of this to suggest that we are thus free to do whatever we want; and the only proviso is that others are not offended. |
| 1Co 111-16 Head coverings |
In Corinth head coverings had become a problem because the tradition that a man did not cover his head when he prayed but a woman should do so, was being broken. Paul began by saying that the head of every man is Christ, and the head of a wife is her husband. He then stated the tradition that it was disgraceful for a man to have long hair; but for a woman it is her glory. This beauty can also be a distraction and thus should be covered. Today women’s hats can also be a distraction! Through history men always removed their hats (if worn) except for Bishops who like to parade in mitres! Paul does not seem to address why single women should also cover their heads. Head covering only becomes a problem when modesty is abandoned and is replaced by ‘women’s rights’ or a desire to distract / impress others. |
| 1Co 1117-34 The Lord’s Supper |
Paul identified a problem in their celebrations: There are divisions among you In eating, each one goes ahead with his own meal. One goes hungry, another gets drunk. Clearly they failed to realise the true significance of why they celebrated: The Lord Jesus on the night when he was betrayed took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it, and said, “This is my body, which is for you. Do this in remembrance of me.” In the same way also he took the cup, after supper, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood. Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me.” For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord's death until he comes. So he instructs them to examine themselves and to eat together worthily. |
| 1Co 121-11 Spiritual gifts |
When you were pagans you were led astray to mute idols but now you are led by the one Holy Spirit and Lord of all who directs and empowers the varieties of gift and activities for the common good. Wisdom, knowledge, faith, healing, miracles, prophecy, discernment, tongues and their interpretation. Each of these are given for the benefit of the Church and the glory of the Lord - and not for personal standing. |
| 1Co 1212-31 One body with many members |
The human body can only function if its many parts work together in harmony. So it is in the Church when we were all baptised into one body, in Christ. Each part needs all the others. Each has a different use, some are given more honour than others. If one suffers, all suffer. If one is honoured, all rejoice together. Let each use what he has been given for the whole body of Christ. |
| 1Co 131-13 Love |
If without love, prophecy, knowledge, faith and gifts have no value. Love is: Patient, kind, and rejoices in the truth. Love believes, hopes and endure all things. Love is not: envious, boastful, proud, irritable or resentful. Love does not insist on own way, or rejoice at wrongdoing. Love never ends. Faith, hope and love abide, but the greatest of these is love. |
| 1Co 141-40 Prophecy and Tongues |
Following the previous 2 chapters, Paul instructs the Corinthians to pursue love, and earnestly desire the spiritual gifts, especially that you may prophesy. This is better than ‘tongues’ because it builds up the church. And if anyone should speak in a tongue, it should be interpreted, else it will have no value. Also, if any unbelievers are present, tongues will be a sign for them, but prophecy will convict their hearts and change their life. So, my brothers, earnestly desire to prophesy, and do not forbid speaking in tongues. But all things should be done decently and in order. |
| 1Co 151-58 Greatest Importance |
Paul needed to remind the Corinthians of what was most important in preaching: Christ died for our sins ... that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day. And this was exactly in accordance with the Scriptures, and what God had promised. Christ had appeared not only to the Apostles, but also to Paul and 500 others. And so you believed. But some in Corinth still said that there was no resurrection of the dead. If that was true then there could be no forgiveness of sin because it means that heaven had not accepted Christ’s sacrifice as full and complete redemption. In a word he says, your faith is futile, and and you have discounted the witness of over 512 people. But because he had seen Christ risen from the dead, Paul speaks the truth to them: “For as in Adam all die, so also in Christ shall all be made alive. ... Do not be deceived.” Or as he wrote to the Church in Rome, We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life. Ro 64 Paul then compares the resurrection, the transformation, of the body with a seed of grain that is sown in the ground. What is sown is perishable; what is raised is imperishable. The seed dies and become a new plant. Just as we have borne the image of the man of dust, we shall also bear the image of the man of heaven. Flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God. Behold! I tell you a mystery. ... in a moment ... the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised imperishable ... Death is swallowed up in victory. Christ’s victory over sin and death. All and only because Christ died and Christ was resurrected. No wonder Paul told them that this was of first importance. 153 |
| 1Co 161-4 Gift for Jerusalem |
They wanted to send a gift to the needy saints in Jerusalem, so Paul advised them to put aside an amount each week to ease the difficulties of making one large gift. |
| 1Co 165-11 Plans for travel |
Paul wrote 1Co in 55 AD while he was at Ephesus at the early part of his 3rd missionary journey. The following year when he got to Macedonia he wrote again. Shortly afterwards he did get to Corinth. But meanwhile he was concerned that Timothy, who had been sent on ahead, would be treated with respect and not despised on account of his young age. |
| 1Co 1612-24 Final instructions And greetings |
Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong. Let all that you do be done in love. He urged them to be respectful of each other as they had a tendency to be proud and argumentative. |
2 Corinthians [Contents]
The Corinthians did not respond well to his first letter, but many turned against Paul. This letter defended his apostolic credentials, encouraged reconciliation and holy living. It was written in 56AD while in Macedonia and on his way to Corinth.
| 2Co 11,2 Greeting |
He begins: Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God. This is very similar to opening of his first letter. He needed to emphasise that he was an apostle of Christ, not of men, and was chosen by God, not by men. Although there was criticism of Paul, he wrote (and meant) Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. |
| 2Co 13-11 Comfort in affliction |
Both Paul and the Corinthian Church suffered affliction, so he begins by reminding them: For as we share abundantly in Christ's sufferings, so through Christ we share abundantly in comfort too. ... Indeed, we felt that we had received the sentence of death. But that was to make us rely not on ourselves but on God who raises the dead. ... On him we have set our hope that he will deliver us again. To this end he also seeks their help by prayer. The ‘sufferings’ to which Paul refers are not the pains common to all men, but those resulting from persecution. And the comfort he received from God enabled him to endure it; not by trying to avoid the cause of persecution. |
| 2Co 112 - 24 Changed travel plans |
Some accused Paul of indecision and said he just couldn’t make up his mind. But Paul proved he always wanted to follow the leading of the Spirit of God. Just as he did earlier when sent to Macedonia when he wanted to go to Bithynia (Act 166-10). |
| 2Co 25-11 Forgive the repentant |
Paul’s response to the opposition in Corinth had been painful, but his letter had been effective (2Co 78,9). He now assures them that he forgives the repentant offender; I beg you to reaffirm your love for him. |
| 2Co 212-17 Triumph in Christ |
Thanks be to God, who in Christ always leads us in triumphal procession, and through us spreads the fragrance of the knowledge of him everywhere. For we are the aroma of Christ to God among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing. Although ‘the aroma of Christ’ brings great joy to all who believe, it also brings death and hatred to those who refuse to repent. It thus brings both peace and a sword (Math 1034 Heb 412 Rev 1915,21). Jesus with a dividing sword surprises many today. |
| 2Co 31 - 510 Verification |
Paul tells them that they are the proof that his ministry is genuine. Not that we are sufficient in ourselves to claim anything as coming from us, but our sufficiency is from God, who has made us sufficient to be ministers of a new covenant. From the day of Moses their minds were hardened; the old covenant remained veiled. But when one turns to the Lord, the veil is removed ... for where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. And we all ... are being transformed ... Therefore ... we refuse to practice cunning or to tamper with God's word. For what we proclaim is not ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord, with ourselves as your servants for Jesus' sake. We have this treasure in jars of clay, to show that the surpassing power belongs to God and not to us. We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed ... So death is at work in us, but life in you ... to the glory of God. |
| 2Co 511-21 Reconciliation |
Having just told them that we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, he tells them how it is the love of Christ that controls all that they say and do. Because he died for all, that those who live might no longer live for themselves but for him who for their sake died and was raised. How can any man be able to fulfill this good desire? Paul gives us the simple answer. If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come ... that is, in Christ God was reconciling the world to himself, not counting their trespasses against them. As C. L. Bancroft wrote:
Before the throne of God above
My name is graven on His hands,
When Satan tempts me to despair,
Because the sinless Saviour died,
Behold Him there, the risen Lamb!
One with Himself, I cannot die;
Paul’s great plea to the Corinthian church (and us) is simple: |
| 2Co 61-18 Marrying an unbeliever |
Paul now brings an important practical instruction / warning. Behold, now is the day of salvation. Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers. Love and deep affection can either open our eyes or blind us. If a Christian marries an unbeliever, instead of bringing happiness, he will usually find that his faith evaporates and so does his life with Christ. |
| 2Co 71 Aim at holiness |
Holiness today is too often sidelined by the desire for freedom, and thought to be ‘old-fashioned’. Paul’s instruction is still valid: Let us cleanse ourselves from every defilement of body and spirit, bringing holiness to completion in the fear of God. |
| 2Co 72-16 Godly grief |
Paul’s first letter had caused some grief in Corinth; but he did not regret writing it. For godly grief produces a repentance that leads to salvation without regret. ... For see what earnestness this godly grief has produced in you. ,,, Therefore we are comforted. |
| 2Co 81-16 Relief of the saints |
Paul tells them how the Macedonians when they learned of the need of the saints gave according to their means ... and beyond their means of their own accord. He continues: Your abundance at the present time should supply their need, ... As it is written, “Whoever gathered much had nothing left over, and whoever gathered little had no lack.” (Exd 1618) He bases this encouragement to share on following the example of Jesus : For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you by his poverty might become rich. |
| 2Co 816 - 915 Titus and giving commended |
Paul commends Titus who was not only willing but was also eager to go to Corinth. He had the same objective, as did another unnamed brother. Sent ahead to prepare for receiving their promised gift to the saints. Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. ... this service is not only supplying the needs of the saints but is also overflowing in many thanksgivings to God. ... Thanks be to God for his inexpressible gift! |
| 2Co 101-18 Meekness and power |
Paul wanted to address the problems in Corinth with meekness, not boldness. For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have divine power to destroy strongholds. We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ. He needed to correct them, but to do so gently, without boasting his authority. |
| 2Co 111 - 1223 False apostles |
These two chapters are devoted to alerting Corinth to avoid being led by false apostles, like Eve was deceived by Satan. Paul reminds them that he did not burden them in any way because the Macedonian church supported him. He warns them not to be led by deceitful workmen, disguising themselves as apostles of Christ. And no wonder, for even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light. He then reveals how much and how often he had been willing to suffer as a servant of Christ - unlike the false leaders. Paul admits his weakness and how he pleaded with God to remove a ‘thorn in the flesh’ . But the Lord told him, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Paul did not strive to be their distinguished leader, only that the Corinthian church should not be deceived or immoral, but learn to know the truth and live righteous lives, giving glory to Christ. |
| 2Co 131-10 Final warnings |
Paul makes it clear to the Corinthians that in his imminent 3rd visit he will deal with those who sinned and all the others, if they have not already done so. Though he was weak in dealing with you we will live with him by the power of God. He prays that they will do what is right. Your restoration is what we pray for. This would mean that it would not be necessary to use the authority that the Lord has given me for building up and not for tearing down. How Corinth reacted to this letter is not known. Act 202,3 briefly records his 3rd visit, but tells us nothing. He wrote to the Romans in the 3 months he was there. |
| 2Co 1311-14 Blessing |
Finally, brothers, rejoice. Aim for restoration, comfort one another, agree with one another, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you. |
Galatians [Contents]
| Gal 11,2 Introductio |
Paul, an apostle—not from men nor through man, but through Jesus Christ and God the Father, who raised him from the dead: He first reminds the readers of the authenticity of his letter and what he taught. In the history of the church it is clear how quickly many leaders have tried to change or add to the basic truth. To the churches of Galatia Founded on Paul’s first journey in 48 AD (Antioch, Iconium, Lysta and Derbe). |
| Gal 13-5 The need to write. |
Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, who gave himself for our sins to deliver us from the present evil age. Has there ever been an age in which man has not been naturally evil? Galatia may have benefited from Roman law and order, but it was not righteous. The very young churches (< 3 years) needed help to prevent compromising God’s revealed truth - just as all churches still need God’s written word. The church today needs to be delivered from the sinful world that promotes homosexuality, evolution theory, abortion murder, the gross errors of the RC church and many other popular extremes. We need God’s forgiveness. This letter, as all Scripture, is very relevant. |
| Gal 16-9 Why so quickly compromised? |
I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting him who called you in the grace of Christ and are turning to a different gospel. Paul was astonished how quickly the churches were compromised by men who want to distort the Gospel. Nearly all the NT letters were written to correct errors. He was determined to remove such distortions before they became established. |
| Gal 110-24 Christ reveals truth to Paul |
I did not receive it from any man, nor was I taught it, but I received it through a revelation of Jesus Christ. Jesus himself challenged and transformed Paul on the Damascus road. Acts 91-19 He who had set me apart before I was born, and who called me by his grace, was pleased to reveal his Son to me, in order that I might preach him among the Gentiles. Almighty God chose Paul (and all believers) before he was born. Also Eph 14 Jer 15 Paul went (briefly) to Arabia, then after 3 years met with Peter for 15 days. He never went to theological college! But God revealed the truth to him. From the beginning God’s plan for Paul was to preach to, and save, the Gentiles. |
| Gal 21-10 Apostles recognise Paul’s ministry |
Then after fourteen years I went up again to Jerusalem with Barnabas ... When they saw that I had been entrusted with the gospel to the uncircumcised and perceived the grace that was given to me, they gave the right hand of fellowship to Barnabas and me. Paul also mentions that Titus came with him, and remained uncircumcised. The apostles only asked Paul to remember the poor. Does this imply that they thought Paul only preached to rich Gentiles? |
| Gal 211-14 Peter fears circumcision party |
When Peter went to Antioch, where many in the church were Gentiles, he naturally ate with them. But when some ‘circumcision party’ men came, he drew back, as did even Barnabas and many other Jews. So Paul opposed him to his face, accusing them of hypocrisy. Their conduct was not in step with the truth of the gospel. Such is the cost of trying to keep the peace through compromising the truth. |
| Gal 215-21 Justified by faith in Jesus |
A person is not justified by works of the law but through faith in Jesus Christ. This classic statement is true for both Jews and Gentiles. Paul gives 3 reasons: 1. By works of the law no one will be justified. Simply because no man has ever been able to keep all the Law. 2. I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. New birth by revelation of Christ crucified for my sin. See Jn 3. 3. If righteousness were through the law, then Christ died for no purpose. Father would never have sent his Son to be crucified without good reason. What does it mean to have faith in Jesus? What do we believe and trust as truth? This will be seen later. Works are also important. James |
| Gal 31-16 What made the Galatians foolish? |
Who has bewitched you? Why believe the crafty lies of Satan? 1. Forgot reason why Christ was publicly portrayed as crucified. OT constantly revealed a perfect sacrifice was required by God to forgive sin. 2. Did you receive the Spirit by works of the law? Which you inevitably broke. Men pretend that they keep the law, or don’t commit any sin that matters. Some no longer plead for mercy and now even think they deserve the Spirit. They forget the Gospel truth that they had heard by faith and believed. O teach me what it meaneth, that cross uplifteth high, With One - the Man of Sorrows - condemned to bleed and die. O teach me what it cost thee to make a sinner whole; And teach me, Saviour, teach me the value of a soul. |
| Gal 37-9 Who are the sons of Abraham? |
It is those of faith who are the sons of Abraham. i.e. Those who believe God to do the impossible like Abraham did. Gen 154-6 It is utterly impossible for any man to earn God’s forgiveness. Both Jew and Gentile must believe and trust Christ crucified for our salvation. So then, those who are of faith are blessed along with Abraham, the man of faith. |
| Gal 310-14 "The righteous shall live by faith." |
The just Law of God states that: the soul that sins shall die. Ezek 184 The wages of sin is death. Ro 623 Cursed be everyone who does not abide by all things written in the Book of the Law, and do them.” Deut 2726 Gal 310 So how can any man live? Are all men born doomed to die? What a waste of creation! How can this curse of the law be lifted? How can God’s justice be satisfied? This passage of Scripture reveals God’s answer to these questions. Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us. He alone is able to achieve this by being the required perfect sacrifice. The sinless, perfect Son of God was crucified in my place. The Holy Spirit reveals and convinces us of this simple truth, this gift of faith. So that in Christ Jesus the blessing of Abraham might come to the Gentiles. Such is the abundant mercy and grace of God! Thus we are ‘born again’, receive his righteousness and become children of Abraham. We live by faith; being sure of what we hope for, because this is the promise of God. And he always keeps his word! |
| Gal 315-29 The Law came after the Promise |
It is significant that the Law that God gave to Moses came 430 years after the promise God gave to Abraham. Even with a man-made covenant, no one annuls it or adds to it once it has been ratified. So the Law of God does not change the promise of God. Paul then asks, "Why then the law? It was added because of transgressions, until the offspring should come to whom the promise had been made." The Law reveals how men should live to be righteous. But since it has always been proved impossible to keep all the Law, it also reveals that God had planned another means by which a man can be made righteous - the coming of Christ as Redeemer. So then, the law was our guardian until Christ came, in order that we might be justified by faith. The Law proves our necessity for a Saviour, a perfect sacrifice. And having been given faith in Christ, we are no longer under the Law’s condemnation. All who were baptized into Christ have put on Christ.... And if you are Christ's, then you are Abraham's offspring, heirs according to promise. This is so much better than being under the condemning guardianship of the Law. Jesus said, "Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them." Math 517 Then he continued to reveal that the purpose of the Law has not finished. For truly, I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not an iota, not a dot, will pass from the Law until all is accomplished. This world remains full of sin. The promise to Abraham, and us (!), will be completed when Jesus returns and establishes his righteous kingdom. |
| Gal 41-7 Slaves or sons? |
We were all once enslaved by sin (48). But since God revealed to us the truth of his Son, who came and redeemed us, we have been granted the privilege of being adopted as sons and heirs. For all believers the proof of this is simple: And because you are sons, God has sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, crying, "Abba! Father!" So you are no longer a slave, but a son, and if a son, then an heir through God. Note that Christ came in the fulness of time. At precisely the right time in world history, the moment chosen, planned and prophesied by Almighty God. And he will return when the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled, Lu 2124 when the fullness of the Gentiles has come in. Ro 1125 |
| Gal 48-20 Why return to slavery, and how ? |
How can you turn back again to the weak and worthless elementary principles of the world, whose slaves you want to be once more? You observe days and months and seasons and years! 49,10 (see also Ro 145 Col 216) God has commanded us to keep the festivals and the Sabbath (Lev 23). But the problem came when they began to teach or infer that their salvation was achieved or maintained by keeping them. Paul was concerned that this reduced our total dependence upon what Christ achieved for us on the Cross, and substituted our works. Faith without works is dead Jms 214, But good, obedient works can never save our souls. So it depends how we observe the festivals. Do we celebrate Passover remembering how Jesus fulfilled the promise and became the Lamb of God that takes away the sin of the world, or do we think God must be pleased with us for observing the feast with all its various traditions and thereby earning our salvation? Imagine what Paul would say today if he saw what has become of Epiphany (Christmas - Santa Claus) and Passover (Easter - a pagan fertility festival), Sabbath (Sunday on 1st day, not 7th day and creation forgotten or even denied!). There is also a whole raft of ‘Saints days’. It is obviously good and profitable to remember and be inspired by the lives of past leaders - (though men like Erasmus, Tyndale, Cranmer, Latimer, Bilney, Bunyan, Wesley, Ryle, Hudson Taylor, Nat Saint, General Booth ....are not included!!) It should be noted that all who believe in Jesus Christ are saints, sons of God, and priests in the kingdom of God. This part in Paul’s letter is concerned that we do not allow good works in any way to replace faith in Christ for our salvation. Good works should naturally follow the new life of Christ in us. It is Christ alone who has earned our salvation. |
| Gal 421-31 Abraham had two sons |
Abraham had two sons, one by a slave woman and one by a free woman. This is significant; (similar to Isaac’s two sons, Jacob and Esau. Mal 12,3) Now this may be interpreted allegorically: these women are two covenants. One is from Mount Sinai, bearing children for slavery; she is Hagar. ... she corresponds to the present Jerusalem. But Sarah bore a child, as promised. Now you, brothers, like Isaac, are children of promise. The two sons Ishmael and Isaac were born, one according to the flesh and slavery, the other according to the Spirit and freedom. So, brothers, we are not children of the slave but of the free woman. And remember the son of the slave woman shall not inherit with the son of the free woman. Slaves are not paid or rewarded. Sons inherit by birth, new birth, not by works. He gladly serves his father - but not for any reward. Similarly, a man and his wife will gladly serve each other, not to receive a wage, but because they love each other. |
| Gal 51-15 Stand firm in freedom |
God’s gracious gift to all who believe and trust in Jesus is freedom from the Law’s judgement. Paul gives us an example. Some Jews were insisting that adult male Gentile believers should be circumcised. But circumcision was given as a sign of Jewish descendence. Acts 235 reveals that baptism is the sign or witness of believing in Jesus for forgiveness and salvation. For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision counts for anything, but only faith working through love. Furthermore those who insist upon circumcision in effect put themselves ‘under the Law’, which inevitably condemns them. Today, the Roman church especially insists upon the practice of many traditions (for details, see 24 RC Errors Use Back arrow to return here). Far from enabling men to enjoy our freedom in Christ, these yoke participants to slavery. |
| Gal 516-25 War - Flesh .v. Spirit |
We are told to walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. Now the works of the flesh are evident: sexual immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, sorcery, enmity, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, rivalries, dissensions, divisions, envy, drunkenness, orgies, and things like these. They are all against and actively oppose the Spirit of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. 7 Deadly Sins: Lust, Gluttony, Greed, Sloth, Wrath, Envy, Pride. 14 Blessed Virtues: Chastity, Temperance, Charity, Diligence, Patience, Kindness, Humility, Meekness, Merciful, Faithful, Hopeful, Just, Righteous, Truth. |
| Gal 61-10 How or what do we sow? |
Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ. And do so with a spirit of gentleness, not pride. Do not be deceived: ... whatever one sows, that will he also reap. the one who sows to the Spirit will from the Spirit reap eternal life. All men are prone to be deceived. So take care. See 'The Screwtape Letters'. Do good to everyone. |
| Gal 611-18 Final word on circumcision |
Fear is a rotten master; many Galatians feared the circumcision party. Only in order that they may not be persecuted for the cross of Christ. Pride is also a rotten master. They desire to have you circumcised that they may boast in your flesh. Paul insists that only a new creation matters; not circumcision. |
The heart of this letter and the need for Paul to write it was to emphasise:
1. Believers are no longer under Law’s condemnation, but under the free gift of God’s grace in Christ.
2. The Law was given to reveal God’s plan for salvation and our need for a perfect Redeemer.
Ephesians [Contents]
This letter (together with Philippians and Colossians) was written while Paul was imprisoned in Rome ~ 60 AD.
He had ministered to the Ephesians for over 2 years during his 3rd missionary journey 53-55 AD. Now he reminds them of the good foundation of God’s grace that he had laid. The Ephesians continued to heed the warning he gave their elders in Acts 2025-31 about how ‘savage wolves’ would come and ‘distort the truth’. See also letter in Rev 21-7
| Eph 11,2 Greeting |
Confirms his authority as an apostle is because Christ chose him to be so. Written to the saints (all believers in Christ) and who are faithful in Christ Jesus. His ongoing prayer is that they receive grace and peace from God. |
| Eph 13-14 The riches of his grace. |
Whatever troubles we may experience on this earth, they are for a short time and are totally eclipsed by the 10 spiritual blessings that he enumerates: he chose us in him before the foundation of the world. he predestined us for adoption to himself as sons through Jesus Christ. he has blessed us in the Beloved. we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace, which he lavished upon us. wisdom and insight making known to us the mystery of his will. a plan for the fullness of time, to unite all things in him. we have obtained an inheritance, having been predestined. we who were the first to hope in Christ. you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and believed in him. you were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit, who is the guarantee of our inheritance. All this is to the praise of his glory. Selah!! All this is just for starters on this earth. There is much, much more to come. All eternity with our so gracious and holy God in his righteous kingdom. He gives us a preview in Rev 21,22. Paul begins by trying to enlarge our vision of the bigger picture, to see how and why we are saved and to see our assured future inheritance. Each of these 10 blessings deserves our meditation and expansion. O what shall I do my Saviour to praise, So faithful and true, so plenteous in grace, So strong to deliver, so good to redeem The weakest believer that hangs upon him. |
| Eph 21-10 Saved by mercy and grace |
Here the scriptures reveal the truth about man’s natural situation: You were dead in the trespasses and sins ... and were by nature children of wrath, like the rest of mankind. This is very different from what psychologists claim about ‘good in all of us’. Without salvation, man is not only ‘dead’ but under the wrath of God’s judgement. But God, being rich in mercy ... made us alive together with Christ and raised us up with him and seated us with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus. Such is the incredible kindness and grace of God. A dead man cannot raise himself, it is the gift of God.
O the love that drew salvation’s plan,
Our salvation was God’s design, God’s loving sacrifice, and God’s creative power. |
| Eph 211-22 Jew and Gentile reconciled to God |
You Gentiles ... remember that you were at that time separated from Christ, alienated from the commonwealth of Israel and strangers to the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world. But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ. ... So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God ... being built together into a dwelling place for God by the Spirit. Gentile Christians often forget the great privilege granted to us that we are now also partakers of the covenants of promise that God made with the Jews. Far too many seem to think that God rejected the Jews 2,000 years ago and Christians took their place. i.e. ‘Replacement theology’. God will never forsake his covenant. All men, Jew and Gentile, need to believe and trust in Christ crucified and risen in order to be ‘brought near’ and become saints. God’s purpose in choosing the Jews was to enable him to dwell with men. Exd 258 2945 |
| Eph 31-13 The mystery of Christ |
What is this ‘mystery of Christ’? Why does God want to share it with us? Many have read a little about Christ: a Jew who lived in Israel 2,000 years ago who went about being kind to people and healing the sick. But before he could revolutionise the government he was crucified. This is true, but it is not a mystery. So what is it? Perhaps it is most clearly seen in what Jesus said to the two going home to Emmaus. How foolish you are, how slow of heart to believe all that the prophets had spoken. Lu 2425 What had the prophets written that they did not know? Jesus continued, “Did not the Christ have to suffer these things and then enter his glory?” This is the simple mystery. That the Messiah had to suffer. God’s justice declared that without the shedding of blood, there is no forgiveness of sin. Heb 922 This necessity is what all the OT sacrifices pointed to. They were all imperfect; Jesus was the one perfect sacrifice. As Paul told then here: how the mystery was made known to me by revelation. No man can know and believe the means by which God can forgive sin unless this mystery is made known by revelation. Even the apostles who had been with Jesus for over 3 years had to have this truth revealed. Then he opened their minds to understand the Scriptures, and said to them, “Thus it is written, that the Christ should suffer and on the third day rise from the dead, and that repentance for the forgiveness of sins should be proclaimed in his name to all nations, beginning from Jerusalem. Lu 2445-47
It is no mystery that man is sinful, nor that his good resolutions always fail to make him good - every honest man knows this. The mystery is that God’s forgiveness requires the sacrifice and resurrection of his Son.
On Calvary there stood a Cross,
There the Redeemer gave His blood
Upon that Cross, that bitter Cross,
Before that Cross I weep and pray, This is the glorious mystery of Christ! |
| Eph 314-21 The power at work within us |
Paul prays earnestly for the Ephesian church is that you to be strengthened with power through his Spirit in your inner being. Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith, to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge you may be filled with all the fullness of God. Being a Christian is much more than just believing the right theology. It is being re-born and God fulfilling his promise of his Spirit dwelling in us. Jn 1423 Before ascending Jesus promised his disciples he would not leave them as orphans. May we also learn the power of God within to make us righteous. |
| Eph 41-16 One body, many callings |
Called to walk with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. The church has always found this a challenge, especially when all or certain parts of the Scriptures are ignored. Paul also warned the Ephesians about ‘ravenous wolves’ from within the church who would try to lead the people astray. Act 20 When do disagreements become important issues that need correction/resolution? In Paul’s day it was the Jew / Gentile /circumcision divide. Today it is the Protestant / RC or the Charismatic / Evangelical divisions or ... sadly there are many others. Then and now, there seems no easy answer as to when to walk with humility or when is it necessary to fight. The practical means for building up the body of Christ, until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ seems to often elude us, however much we may desire it. |
| Eph 417-32 Corrupt or righteous |
Gentiles (all unbelievers) walk in the futility of their minds ... Darkened ... alienated from the life of God, ... ignorant due to their hardness of heart ... immoral ... deceitful desires. You must be renewed in the spirit of your minds ... created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness. ... do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God. The contrast is great. And we continually have choices to make and habits to form. Only with the Spirit of God will we be enabled to do this. |
| Eph 51-21 Walk as children of light |
Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. This instruction summarises what the Ephesians needed to do. Also for us today. In more detail: everyone who is sexually immoral or impure, or who is covetous (that is, an idolater), has no inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God. ... Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them. ... do not get drunk with wine. For the youth today it is costly to be different from everyone else. Media advertising strongly encourages covetousness; the desire for more, now. The result is increasing, but unsustainable debt, both personal and government. The day must come soon when man’s folly will crash ‘in a single hour’. Rev 18 Only Jesus Christ can satisfy the human heart and enable us to walk in his light, addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs ...giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father. |
| Eph 522-33 Wives and husbands |
Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord. Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her. Let each one of you love his wife as himself, and let the wife see that she respects her husband. Both need the grace and life of God within to fulfil this and to practice patience, mutual respect and truly wanting the best for each other. Selfishness, what I want, can easily bruise any relationship. |
| Eph 61-4 Children and fathers |
Children, obey ... and “Honour your father and mother”. (Exd 2012) Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord. Governments that do not honour Almighty God do their best to transfer parental responsibility for their children to the state. e.g. girls of 13 can be given pill or have abortion without the NHS telling parents. Parents cannot object to primary schools promoting LGBT to their children. All schools teach Evolution Theory as scientific truth, while God’s Creation is relegated to religion (if even mentioned). Parental control of internet info is helpful, though often resisted; though control of smart phones is much more difficult. Today’s world for parents and for children is demanding, to say the least. Opportunities for sin and deceit are everywhere. |
| Eph 65-9 Slavery |
Slavery is wrong - full stop! Paul does not advocate this here, but warns masters that any cruelty will return on them, and slaves should respect their masters. Today ‘Black lives matter’ has been misused as a just excuse to rebel with violence against all forms of authority. Wilberforce and Shaftesbury abolished slavery in England in Parliament, not by mob protest. In the USA the civil war North .v. South has left much bitterness. In the end God reveals that civil unrest and tribulation will lead to an evil one world government. Fear may result in ‘law and order’, but not to justice or righteousness |
| Eph 610-20 The whole armour of God |
All men need to wear the armour of God in the fight against the schemes of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. Stand wearing: The belt of truth. The whole Word of God reveals the truth. Read it, believe, trust and obey it. The breastplate of righteousness. Where does our heart, our treasure live? What are our goals? Do they remain uncompromised? How desirable is a holy life? Are we willing to pay the price? Shoes for your feet. Always ready to spread the gospel of peace. Willing to lose popularity to fulfil the command of Christ. Shield of faith. Without faith no man can please God and be forgiven. Christ crucified and risen: the wisdom and power of God. Do we have the assurance of God that he will fulfil all our hopes? God has promised to give all believers more than they ask for or can imagine. Helmet of salvation. Our minds, what we think, how we react, what we remember. Keep a vision of the full salvation we will have when Jesus returns. (Heb 928) Sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God. See how Jesus defeated Satan by using the Word when he was tempted. The Scriptures remain our greatest offensive weapon. Read and learn all of it. Praying at all times in the Spirit. Prayer hugely benefits both us and others. It aligns our life and hope with the plans of Almighty God. It achieves much across continents, and does so in ways we cannot imagine. What God reveals in prayer will often surprise us. See Dan 924 Hab 12-6 Although repeatedly prophesied, the crucifixion victory surprised everyone! Keep alert with all perseverance. To be a servant of the Lord will be costly. Christianity is not a bed of roses, it is an ongoing battle. So keep fighting! And keep alert. Many will try to deceive and discourage us. |
| Eph 621-24 Final greetings |
So that you also may know how I am and what I am doing, Tychicus the beloved brother and faithful minister in the Lord will tell you everything. I have sent him to you for this very purpose, that you may know how we are, and that he may encourage your hearts. |
Philippians [Contents]
This began as a ‘thank-you’ letter for their supporting gift when Paul was under house-arrest in Rome ~ 60AD.
Philippi was a wealthy, privileged roman city, named after Philip, the father of Alexander the Great.
| Phil 11-11 Thanksgiving and Prayer |
Paul includes Timothy, both write as servants of Christ Jesus. Prayer is often the costly compassion for people’s needs; but their remembrance of the Philippians brought joy. However it did not bring complacent satisfaction but a yearning to continue until the transformation was complete. I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ. He also saw the need for love and discernment, for being ready, blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness. Such is the desire of all good pastors. |
| Phil 112-18 Prison advances the Gospel |
Rather than be sad about Paul’s imprisonment, he wanted them to be glad because it had advanced the Gospel which become known throughout the whole imperial guard. Furthermore the church there was encouraged and were much more bold to speak the word without fear. Persecution has always advanced the church. It did in the Protestant reformation, and it still does in N.Korea, China, ME etc. Ignoring Almighty God and treating his Word as irrelevant has often proved more destructive in causing the church to decline. |
| Phil 119-30 To live or die? |
For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. This simple statement is the truth for all believers in Christ, though it does not try to answer the question as to how or when God has chosen for us die. Whether Paul lives to continue supporting the church or not, he has one desire for them: Only let your manner of life be worthy of the gospel of Christ ... and not frightened in anything by your opponents. ... For it has been granted to you that for the sake of Christ you should not only believe in him but also suffer for his sake. How do we pray for the persecuted church today? How ready are we for real Christian persecution to arise in UK? |
| Phil 21-11 God exalts the humble |
Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Learn from the example of Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. He chose to be born in a stable instead of in a human palace. He was not only wiling to restrict himself to the normal limits of humanity, but he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow. So let us not try to promote ourselves. Pride is a most ungodly characteristic. |
| Phil 212-18 ‘Work out what God has worked in’ |
Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure. Do all things without grumbling or disputing. Shine as lights in the world, holding fast to the word of life. In the media and even in the Church there is much to distract us today. Let us be careful that desire for popularity does not cause us to compromise God’s truth. |
| Phil 219-30 Timothy and Epaphroditus |
No emails or smart phones for instant communication, only messengers. Paul wanted to exchange news with them. Maybe Timothy; for I have no one like him, who will be genuinely concerned for your welfare. Also Epaphroditus, who had recovered from a near-death sickness. It is not known if or when either of them were actually sent. |
| Phil 31-11 Salvation only in Christ |
Some Jews boasted about their privilege but Paul insists it is of no benefit with regard to salvation. For he himself was circumcised on the eighth day, of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews; as to the law, a Pharisee; as to zeal, a persecutor of the church; as to righteousness under the law, blameless. But all this ‘gain’ he discounted, ‘for the sake of Christ’. Why? Because our salvation depends entirely upon having faith in what Christ has done for us on the Cross. The righteousness from God that depends on faith, not upon being born a Jew. Only thus can anyone know him and the power of his resurrection. So Paul warns them to look out for evildoers ... those who mutilate the flesh. Those who claim circumcision is necessary for salvation. |
| Phil 41 Paul’s Goal |
I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. And he does so in a world where many ... walk as enemies of the cross of Christ. Their end is destruction. Their ... minds set on earthly things. But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ. Satan deceives Humanists to have no such hope, no future after death, nothing. What a terrible shock it will be for them c.f. Christian ‘citizenship in heaven’ |
| Phil 42-7 Prayer with thanksgiving |
First he entreats two women who had worked with him to agree in the Lord. Then he tells the church to rejoice and not be anxious about anything, but instead to pray so that the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. |
| Phil 48,9 Think about these things |
Whatever is true, whatever is honourable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. In days when the media so strongly encourages fear and despair, this instruction that leads to trusting in the Lord God is a very good antidote. |
| Phil 410-23 Content in plenty and in need |
Paul was not seeking further help from the Philippians in his letter - for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me. Yet it was kind of you to share my trouble. He only sought to strengthen the Church there. And with regard to finance: My God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus. To our God and Father be glory forever and ever. Amen. This is true; but it does not preclude churches being persecuted down the ages. But the day will come when Jesus returns and with him, world-wide righteousness. |
Colossians [Contents]
This letter by Paul in 60AD was also signed by Timothy, as was the letter to the Philippians (written a year later).
Paul was under house arrest in Rome. He was concerned about false teachers.
What would he write to the church in UK today?
| Col 11,2 Introduction |
An apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God. Paul first assures them that his accuracy and authority was from God, not man. To the saints and faithful brothers in Christ: He writes to the faithful saints, to believers in Christ, sending grace and peace - from Almighty God. |
| Col 13-8 Thanksgiving |
We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you, since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and of the love that you have for all the saints, because of the hope laid up for you in heaven. Epaphras had made this good report that enabled Paul to rejoice. |
| Col 19-14 Prayer |
That you may be filled with the knowledge of his will in all spiritual wisdom ... bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God ... Prayer was not theoretical but very practical; what we do as well as what we think. He concludes with the essential Christian truth: He has delivered us from the domain of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of his beloved Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins. This is so much more than just trying to keep a few ‘good’ rules. It is the essential element of being ‘born again’. Deliverance, transference and redemption. |
| Col 115-23 Christ, the Messiah |
Paul describes Christ first as Creator: By him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him. And he is before all things, and in him all things hold together. Then he describes him as Messiah Redeemer: In him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell, and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether on earth or in heaven, making peace by the blood of his cross. And you, who once were alienated and hostile in mind, doing evil deeds, he has now reconciled in his body of flesh by his death, in order to present you holy and blameless and above reproach before him. This is the heart of the Gospel, the ‘Good News’. And it certainly is exactly that! How can anyone ignore such wonderful truth; such relief from evil and death? Christ’s rescue plan for us was agreed before creation and is now being fulfilled with precision timing. It cost him everything; such is his love for us. |
| Col 124 - 25 Revealing the mystery |
Paul’s clear longing is to make the word of God fully known, the mystery hidden for ages and generations but now revealed to his saints. ... which is Christ in you and that they should reach all the riches of full assurance of understanding and the knowledge of God's mystery, which is Christ. It remains a mystery how Christ, the Son of God can first redeem us (fulfilling all the OT sacrifices that pointed to Christ crucified) and then how he can live in us, with all our frailty and tendency to sin. It was a mystery to the Apostles who had been with Christ for over 3 years, and which he revealed only after he was raised from the dead and opened their minds to understand the Scriptures. Lu 2445 This truth remains a mystery unless and until God himself reveals it to us. It remains a stumbling block to Jews and foolishness to Gentiles. 1 Co 123 But when revealed the mystery of Christ becomes the power of God and the wisdom of God. 1 Co 124 |
| Col 26-15 Rooted in Christ |
Paul is very concerned that Christians are not taken captive by philosophy and empty deceit. He reminds us that we are now rooted and built up in Christ. And that having been buried with him in baptism and also raised with him through faith. We should therefore live in the powerful working of God. And remember that Christ has forgiven us all our trespasses. He has also disarmed the rulers and authorities. Jesus does not leave anything to chance; he carefully completes all the work that he agreed with the Father before they even created this world. Nothing is left undone; so that we can live rejoicing in righteousness with him for all eternity. Buried with Christ, and raised with Him too; What is there left for me to do? Simply to cease from struggling and strife, Simply to walk in newness of life. Glory be to God! |
| Col 216-23 Religious regulations |
Here is a warning against the many man-made religious regulations. e.g. Festivals or a new moon or a Sabbath, ... “Do not handle, Do not taste, Do not touch” worship of angels, going on in detail about visions. ... These have indeed an appearance of wisdom in promoting self-made religion and asceticism and severity to the body, but they are of no value in stopping the indulgence of the flesh. Such man-made regulations do nothing to promote the righteousness of Christ in us, but most often serve to increase the power and control of leaders. Some aspects of Passover celebrated today have nothing to do with Christ being the Passover Lamb once offered to ‘take away the sins of the world’. Most of the modern aspects of Christmas and Easter have little or nothing to do with the real Christian celebration of the work of Christ in bringing salvation to a fallen world. |
| Col 31-27 Put to death ... and Put on |
Seek the things that are above, where Christ is, ... not on things that are on earth. The ever practical Paul then lists what this means: Put to death therefore what is earthly in you: sexual immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry. ... anger, wrath, malice, slander, and obscene talk from your mouth. Do not lie to one another. The direct consequences of such earthly pursuits is clear: On account of these the wrath of God is coming. On the positive side he directs us: Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, Compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, Bearing with one another ... forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts ... Be thankful .... Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly ... Do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus. |
| Col 318 - 418 Final brief instructions |
Wives, submit to your husbands ... Husbands, love your wives. Children, obey your parents ... Fathers, do not provoke your children. Continue steadfastly in prayer ... that we may declare the mystery of Christ. These instructions are not complicated, but, as always, they require the presence of Jesus. Read (this letter) in the church of the Laodiceans ... Also read letter from Laodicea. Grace be with you. |
1 Thessalonians [Contents]
Paul went to Thessalonica on his 2nd missionary journey (~50 AD) where he reasoned in the synagogue on 3 Sabbaths, explaining why Jesus, the Christ had to suffer and rise from the dead. Some Jews were persuaded and many God-fearing Greeks. But other Jews were jealous and drove him out of town. Act 171-9 He wrote both letters soon afterwards to encourage them in persecution.
| 1 Thess 11-10 Thanks for effect of the Gospel |
Paul prayed earnestly for this young church that endured severe suffering. We continually remember before our God and Father your work produced by faith, your labour prompted by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ. Their lives proved that in the short time he was with them, the Gospel of Jesus came to you not simply with words, but also with power, with the Holy Spirit and with deep conviction. And it enabled them to turn to God from idols to serve the living and true God, and to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead–Jesus, who rescues us from the coming wrath. It is clear that the Gospel Paul taught brought persecution, not popularity. It included the judgement of God for personal sin for which we need forgiveness and his wrath upon worldwide wickedness. |
| 1 Thess 21 - 35 Truth brings persecution, not popularity |
We speak as men approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel. We are not trying to please men but God, who tests our hearts. You know we never used flattery, nor did we put on a mask to cover up greed–God is our witness. We were not looking for praise from men, not from you or anyone else. And we also thank God continually because, when you received the word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as the word of men, but as it actually is, the word of God, which is at work in you who believe. |
| 1 Thess 36-13 Timothy brings good report |
Paul was delighted to hear news of their faith and love. How can we thank God enough for you in return for all the joy we have in the presence of our God because of you? He prays for them: May our God and Father himself and our Lord Jesus clear the way for us to come to you. May the Lord make your love increase and overflow for each other ... May he strengthen your hearts so that you will be blameless and holy in the presence of our God and Father when our Lord Jesus comes with all his holy ones. Persecution is often accompanied by a greater desire for the return of Jesus Christ |
| 1 Thess 41-12 Need to work and live a holy life |
It is God's will that you should be sanctified: that you should avoid sexual immorality; ... For God did not call us to be impure, but to live a holy life. This is always true. And Paul continues: lead a quiet life, to mind your own business and to work with your hands. |
| 1 Thess 413-18 The Rapture |
We believe that Jesus died and rose again and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him. According to the Lord's own word, we tell you that we who are still alive, who are left till the coming of the Lord, will certainly not precede those who have fallen asleep. For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever. |
| 1 Thess 51-11 The Lord will come suddenly |
The day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night. While people are saying, "Peace and safety," destruction will come on them suddenly. The big question is this, and it is big, Are we ready? Are we self-controlled ... do we have faith ... love ... hope? Each is given to us 'through our Lord Jesus Christ'. God did not appoint us to suffer wrath but to receive salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ. The 'wrath' referred to here is not the Tribulation judgement, but the final personal judgement. Some use this verse to say that believers will be raptured before the tribulation. Math 2421,22 Dan 721,25 prove otherwise. With final instructions, remember: The one who calls you is faithful. |
1 Timothy [Contents]
| 1 Tim 11-11 Greeting and reason for letter |
The church at Ephesus was in danger from false teachers, so Paul urged Timothy to remain at Ephesus so that you may charge certain persons not to teach any different doctrine, ... and have wandered away into vain discussion. Some Jews in the church taught that circumcision was necessary for salvation and that they had to keep all the various dietary regulations. Now we know that the law is good, if one uses it lawfully ... They weren't. God's law tells us the best way in which to live. In this we all fail and thus the law was put in charge to lead us to Christ. Gal 324 The false teaches were like the Pharisees who by adding much man-made law accused Christ on many occasions of breaking Sabbath laws. c.f. David: The law of the Lord is perfect, reviving the soul. Ps 197-11 Paul knew this church well. He had spent 2 years teaching them. (53-55 AD) This letter was written about 5 years later (60 AD). |
| 1 Tim 112-17 Paul appointed by Christ |
Christ Jesus our Lord, because he judged me faithful, appointing me to his service, though formerly I was a blasphemer, persecutor, and insolent opponent. But I received mercy ... he revealed that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am the foremost. Paul's proven testimony included a personal call to repentance; he did not choose to become an apostle, he was 'appointed'. |
| 1 Tim 118-20 Timothy instructed |
Timothy, my child, in accordance with the prophecies previously made about you, that by them you may wage the good warfare, holding faith and a good conscience. It was not going to be easy for the young and zealous Timothy. |
| 1 Tim 21-15 Church also instructed |
Men should pray, lifting holy hands ... women should adorn themselves in respectable apparel, with modesty and self-control ... with good works. ... I do not permit a woman to teach or to exercise authority over a man. The church today is suffering through ignoring each of these instructions. |
| 1 Tim 31-7 Qualifications for Elders |
An Overseer must be: above reproach, the husband of one wife, sober-minded, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, not a drunkard, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money. He must manage his own household well ... He must not be a recent convert, he must be well thought of by outsiders ... |
| 1 Tim 38-13 Qualifications for Deacons |
A Deacon must be: dignified, not double-tongued, not addicted to much wine, not greedy for dishonest gain, hold the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience be tested first to prove themselves blameless, his wife must be dignified, not a slanderer, but sober-minded, faithful in all things. the husband of one wife, manage their children and their households well. |
| 1 Tim 41-16 Deceitful spirits Be trained in godliness |
The Spirit expressly says that in later times some will depart from the faith by devoting themselves to deceitful spirits and teachings of demons. e.g. They will forbid marriage and abstain from certain foods. (RC's do both!) Have nothing to do with irreverent, silly myths. Rather train yourself for godliness. Command and teach these things. Let no one despise you for your youth Devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to exhortation, to teaching. Persist in this, for by so doing you will save both yourself and your hearers. |
| 1 Tim 51 - 610,17-19 Instructions to the Church |
It is better to encourage others than to rebuke them Honour widows who are truly widows. If anyone does not provide for his relatives, ... he has denied the faith Only enrol a widow if she is over 60, has been the wife of one husband and if she has done good works. Honour elders who rule well. Any charge must have at least 2 witnesses. Publicly rebuke those who persist in sin. Do not be hasty in the laying on of hands. Keep yourself pure. Use a little wine for the sake of your stomach. Bondservants should regard their own masters as worthy of all honour. Godliness with contentment is great gain. If we have food and clothing, with these we will be content. The love of money is a root of all kinds of evils. As for the rich in this present age, charge them not to be haughty, but to be generous and to set their hope upon God. |
| 1 Tim 611-16, 20,21 Fight the Good Fight |
But as for you, O man of God, flee these things. Pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, steadfastness, gentleness. Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called. Avoid the irreverent babble and contradictions of what is falsely called "knowledge". |
2 Timothy [Contents]
Paul wrote this, his last letter, whilst awaiting execution in 67 AD. To the end he was determined that the church in Ephesus should not fall into any error. It is a good testimony to Timothy that when Jesus wrote a letter to the Ephesian church he said, "I know your works, your toil and your patient endurance, and how you cannot bear with those who are evil, but have tested those who call themselves apostles and are not, and found them to be false." Rev 22
| 2 Tim 11-18 Faith tested by suffering |
The suffering Paul gave thanks and prayed constantly for Timothy and the church. So fan into flame the gift of God ... for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control. Therefore: Do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord, ... but share in suffering for the gospel by the power of God, who saved us and called us to a holy calling ... which now has been manifested through the appearing of our Saviour Christ Jesus, who abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel. ... But I am not ashamed, for I know whom I have believed, and I am convinced that he is able to guard until that day what has been entrusted to me. These are more than brave words; they had become reality and truth. Most had deserted him at this stage, all except Onesiphorus. After all Paul had endured, he wasn't going to give up now - And he was determined that Timothy would find grace and strength too. As Peter also experienced: "His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of him who called us ..." 2 Pe 13 |
| 2 Tim 21-13 Strengthened by grace |
Be strengthened by the grace that is in Christ Jesus. Entrust the true word of God to faithful men so they may be able to teach others. If required be willing to share in suffering as a good soldier of Christ Jesus. I am suffering, bound with chains as a criminal. But the word of God is not bound! Likewise you may have to endure everything for the sake of the elect. Remember the trustworthy saying: If we have died with him, we will also live with him; if we endure, we will also reign with him. ... He remains faithful. |
| 2 Tim 214-26 Rightly handle the word of truth |
Do not quarrel about words. Avoid irreverent babble. Let everyone who names the name of the Lord depart from iniquity. Flee youthful passions. Pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace. Have nothing to do with foolish, ignorant controversies. Do not be quarrelsome but kind to everyone, able to teach. Correct your opponents with gentleness. |
| 2 Tim 31-9 In the last days ... |
In the last days there will come times of difficulty. For people will be lovers of self, lovers of money, proud, arrogant, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, heartless, unappeasable, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not loving good, treacherous, reckless, swollen with conceit, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having the appearance of godliness, but denying its power. Avoid such people. Just as Jannes and Jambres opposed Moses, so these men also oppose the truth. This all sounds increasingly familiar to today. |
| 2 Tim 310-17 The value of Scripture |
The sacred writings are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness ... In the modern world of the internet, knowledge abounds, but wisdom does not. Daniel declared: "Many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall increase." Dan 124 Only the Word of the Lord can give us understanding and truth. And it must be all of the Word; not just selected 'pick and mix'. |
| 2 Tim 41-5 Preach the Word earnestly |
For the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions, and will turn away from listening to the truth and wander off into myths. In days when most of the western church is dwindling, it is very common for preachers to only speak what is popular e.g. 'The love of God'. But they avoid anything that is challenging, that warns of God's judgement or of the necessity for the Cross to redeem our sin. |
| 2 Tim 46-8 Paul testifies |
The time of my departure has come. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. This was no boast, but just a statement, a good example for Timothy to follow. Paul knew something of the life that the Lord God had promised him; and while he lay chained in prison, he looked forward to it! |
| 2 Tim 49-18 Final words |
Many had deserted Paul under Roman persecution. Luke alone is with me. It is significant that Paul calls for Timothy to bring Mark with him for he is very useful to me for ministry. This contrasts with Acts 1537-39 Beware of Alexander the coppersmith. At my first defense no one came to stand by me, but all deserted me. May it not be charged against them! But the Lord stood by me ... So I was rescued from the lion's mouth. (Literally!) The Lord will rescue me from every evil deed and bring me safely into his heavenly kingdom. He completes the letter with various greetings to ... and from ... |
Titus [Contents]
Little is known about the last few years of Paul’s ministry after he was taken to Rome in 59AD and was imprisoned for 3 years. That is why I left you in Crete 15 would suggest that he went to Crete and left Titus there. This letter was probably written in 65 AD, 2 years before being imprisoned again in Rome and executed in 68AD. In those very early days of the Christian church there was no stabilising history or tradition and no NT. So false teachers were common. Nearly all of Paul’s writings were directed to correct this and emphasise the truth of Christ.
| Titus 11-4 Paul, an apostle of truth |
Paul affirms that he writes as an apostle of Jesus Christ, who had been entrusted by the command of God our Saviour. This was important in a church where there were many different proclamations. He wrote for the sake of the faith of God's elect and their knowledge of the truth. In Africa and India today many groups are led by men without a Bible. It is not surprising that the truth of Christ often suffers. (Even with Bibles in 2020 UK, both Archbishops approve homosexuality!) |
| Titus 15-16 First task |
To bring truth and godly order to the many churches in Crete, they needed Elders. Paul instructs Titus how to achieve this. Elders and overseers must be: Above reproach, the husband of one wife, and his children are believers not open to the charge of debauchery or insubordination. not be arrogant or quick-tempered or a drunkard or violent or greedy for gain, hospitable, a lover of good, self-controlled, upright, holy, and disciplined. hold firm to the trustworthy word as taught, able to give instruction in sound doctrine and rebuke those who contradict it. Cretans had a poor reputation - they are always liars, evil beasts, lazy gluttons. They profess to know God, but they deny him by their works. |
| Titus 21-15 Sound doctrine + righteousness |
Sound doctrine is essential, but so is moral behaviour e.g. Older men are to be sober-minded, dignified, self-controlled, sound in faith, in love, and in steadfastness. Older women likewise are to be reverent in behaviour, not slanderers or slaves to much wine. ... Likewise, urge the younger men to be self-controlled. ... show integrity, dignity, and sound speech Why is this so important? For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people, training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age, waiting for our blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Saviour Jesus Christ, who gave himself for us to redeem us. If we are not righteous, how can we expect the world to be? Does our waiting for the return of Jesus affect today’s decisions? |
| Titus 31-11 A final valuable reminder |
Titus was told to remind the Cretans about the basis of their salvation: For we ourselves were once foolish, disobedient, led astray ... But when the goodness and loving kindness of God our Saviour appeared, he saved us ... according to his own mercy ... that we might become heirs according to the hope of eternal life. And finally: Let our people learn to devote themselves to good works. |
Philemon [Contents]
Paul sends a personal letter to Philemon requesting a reconciliation with his ‘runaway’ slave, which would benefit both master and slave. The request was based on Christian compassion; not on whether slavery was legitimate.
| Phm 11-3 Introduction |
Paul writes as a ‘prisoner’, not as an apostle, to Philemon as a christian friend and also to the church that met in his home. Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. |
| Phm 14-7 Commendation |
Philemon is first commended for his faith and love in encouraging and refreshing the hearts of the saints. |
| Phm 18-11 Therefore |
Paul appeals for the slave Onesimus who had become a believer, and thus would now become a useful slave. |
| Phm 112-18 Onesimus returned |
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| Phm 119-25 Conclusion |
Confident of your obedience, I write to you, knowing that you will do even more than I ask. A bold ending. But Paul had good reason to believe that Philemon would take heed of his request. He even says he hoped to come and stay with him when he was released from prison! The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. A well fitting prayer to end this letter. |
Hebrews [Contents]
Written by an unknown scholar and pastor of considerable ability
to prove to the Jews that Jesus was the longed-for Messiah.
The first sentence of a book is of strategic importance. It certainly is here. In the past God spoke to our forefathers through the prophets at many times and in various ways, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son.
After Abraham (2,000 BC) God had sent a series of prophets to reveal his truth. Some were honoured in their day; most were rejected. But God kept his covenant. In different ways they all looked to the day when God would send his Messiah.
But for man to obey a righteous Ruler, he needs first to be forgiven and be given a new nature. John Baptist, the greatest prophet, summed it up by teaching, "Repent, for the kingdom of God is at hand." What did Jesus say? Exactly the same thing. Math 417 It was not just what was spoken to us by his Son, but what his Son came to do for us that is so important. Good as the prophets undoubtedly were, this book reveals how much better Jesus Christ was, and is. It tells how only he could be the perfect sacrifice required to gain our forgiveness and entry to the kingdom of God by the small 'wicket gate'.
| Heb 11-14 God has spoken to us by his Son. Jesus is superior to the angels. |
From the dawn of time God has always spoken to his treasured creation; and especially through his chosen prophets. As is often the case that 'actions speak louder than words', so God sent his Son to reveal his truth and to redeem us. This Jesus is heir of all things. Not just the eldest son, but only Son, and heir. He had designed and made the universe! Though often unrecognised, The Son is the radiance of God's glory. Still today he is busy sustaining all things by his powerful word. The mission of his 1st Coming to earth is complete, so after he had provided purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven. Conclusion? He became as much superior to the angels as the name he has inherited is superior to theirs. Many prophets confirmed this superiority of the Son, they wrote: Your throne, O God, will last for ever and ever, and righteousness will be the sceptre of your kingdom. You have loved righteousness and hated wickedness; therefore God, your God, has set you above your companions by anointing you with the oil of joy. Ps 456,7 Also 2Sam 714 Ps 1044 Ps 10225-27 Ps 1101 Are not all angels ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit salvation? Angels are great, but have the status of servants. But the Son of God is not a servant but is Redeemer, Advocate and King. He chose to serve and obey his Father and was willing to suffer the Cross. Jn 1510 Lu 2242 Jesus came not to be served, but to serve. Math 2028 Paradoxically he is correctly referred to as 'the suffering servant' Is 5213-5312 |
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| Heb 21-4 We must pay more careful attention |
The Word of God came directly to the prophets, and also by angels - especially from Gabriel to Daniel, Zechariah, Mary and to Joseph. However the word was given and confirmed, it must never be ignored. |
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| Heb 25-18 The Son of man was made a little lower than the angels, but is now crowned with glory. |
This was the revealed plan of God, to make his Son born of a woman and thus a little lower than the angels for a brief time that would enable him to be the 'perfect sacrifice'. Now he is rightly crowned with all glory and honour for he made it possible for sinners to be cleansed, to be made his righteous and holy brothers. Almighty God has also put everything under his feet, though he adds that Yet at present we do not see everything subject to him. But we will soon see this too. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Heb 31 - 413 Jesus Greater Than Moses.
"Today, if you hear his voice, |
Moses was faithful as a servant in all God's house, testifying to what would be said in the future. But Christ is faithful as a son over God's house. ... Jesus has been found worthy of greater honour than Moses just as the builder of a house has greater honour than the house itself.
Moses was faithful and believing, but Israel was not. They repeatedly rebelled. |
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| Heb 414 - 510 Jesus the Great High Priest forever
Writer assumes OT knowledge |
Therefore, since we have a great high priest, ... Jesus the Son of God, ... Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need. Jesus is by far the greatest High Priest because Almighty God declares: "You are a priest forever, in the order of Melchizedek." Jesus never had to offer sacrifices for himself, since he never sinned. His perfect sacrifice was entirely for our sins, our propitiation. Thus he became the source of eternal salvation for all who obey him. It is only because this High Priest is our Advocate and Saviour who in his mercy and grace gives us a new life that can begin to obey him and enjoy his salvation. God revealed his acceptance of the sacrifice this great High Priest made by tearing the separating curtain in the Temple in two, thus enabling all repentant sinners to come to the mercy seat and receive sure forgiveness from the One seated there. |
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| Heb 511 - 612 A Warning |
We have much to say about this, but it is hard to explain because you are slow to learn. ... We want each of you to show this same diligence to the very end, in order to make your hope sure. We do not want you to become lazy, but to imitate those who through faith and patience inherit what has been promised. The dire warning is this: It is impossible for those who have once been enlightened, ... to be brought back to repentance. |
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| Heb 71-10 Who was Melchizedek? |
Melchizedek was king of Salem and priest of God Most High. King and Priest. King of righteousness; and king of peace. He was without genealogy ... like the Son of God he remains a priest forever. Abraham gave him a tithe and Abraham was blessed by him. Thus Melchizedek was greater than Abraham. |
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| Heb 711-28 Priesthood of Melchizedek better than priesthood of Aaron. A Better hope is introduced. |
Levitical priesthood was inherited and based on the law that made nothing perfect. Melchizedek's priesthood was not based on his ancestry but on the basis of the power of an indestructible life. This was because Almighty God had declared on an unchangeable oath 'You are a priest forever.' Because Jesus lives forever, he has a permanent priesthood. Therefore he is able to save completely those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede for them. What a huge comfort this truth is when we cry to God for mercy. And unlike the former priests, who had to make daily sacrifices for their own sins and then for the sins of the people, Jesus made one perfect sacrifice of himself that never needs to be repeated. "It is finished!" was his cry. |
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| Heb 81-13 A far better High Priest and thus a better Covenant |
The Old Testament high priests were at best only a temporary shadow on earth.
Jesus is now our triumphant High Priest and is seated in heaven for ever. He is the Mediator of a new and superior Covenant that is founded on better promises. ... It will not be like the covenant I made with their forefathers. This old covenant was the Law written on stone, which they inevitably broke. The new covenant the Lord declares: I will put my laws in their minds and write them on their hearts. I will be their God, and they will be my people. ... For I will forgive their wickedness and will remember their sins no more. The Laws he gave to Moses are not obsolete, but new birth enables these laws, now graciously written in our hearts to be obeyed. And when we fail to obey, and plead for mercy through the blood of Jesus, he forgives and 'remembers our sins no more'. Remember that Jesus also said, "Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them." Math 517 The purpose of the old covenant, the Law, was to reveal to man that it was not within his power of man to keep it, however hard he tries. We need a Saviour and Advocate to forgive and a new birth, new heart and new spirit to obey. The law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ. Gal 324 (KJV) The problem with the 'one talent man' in Math 25 was not that "he should have tried a little harder" (as one man foolishly preached), but that he refused to go to Christ for salvation. All this is beautifully summed up in the hymn:
Before the throne of God above,
My name is graven on his hands,
When Satan tempts me to despair,
Because the sinless Saviour died,
Behold him there! the risen Lamb!
One with himself, I cannot die; |
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| Heb 91 - 1018 Christ, the Better High Priest |
The sacrifice of Christ is far better; it is perfect, complete and eternal. The 'Most Holy Place' he enters is not 'man-made' but is heaven itself, and into which all who are washed in his blood are invited. The gospel is not an invitation to imitate Jesus; it is the revelation that Jesus has offered himself as the sacrifice that enables our forgiveness by God. For Christ did not enter a man-made sanctuary that was only a copy of the true one; he entered heaven itself, now to appear for us in God's presence. His Advocacy is effective, his sacrifice 'full, perfect and sufficient'. And that's not all. He will appear a second time, not to bear sin, but to bring salvation to those who are waiting for him. No earthly priest could ever achieve salvation for men. At best it only pointed to the day when the day when Jesus, the Son of God, would be crucified. Gen 228,14 The law is only a shadow of the good things that are coming ... because it is impossible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins. This is why the Son of God had to come to us and we have been made holy through the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ once for all. He will come again to establish his righteous and eternal kingdom. Seeing the state of his world today we say, 'Amen Lord, please come quickly!' Rev 227,12,17,20 |
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| Heb 1019-39 Therefore Assurance and change |
Since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, ...
let us draw near to God ...
let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful.
let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. The High Priesthood of Jesus is intended to change our lives and our thoughts. So, If we deliberately keep on sinning after we have received the knowledge of the truth, no sacrifice for sins is left, but only a fearful expectation of judgment ... So do not throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded. You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised. Thus we must 'practice what we preach' and never stop listening and learning. |
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| Heb 111-40 Faith |
What is truth? What is faith? More and beyond the 3 spacial dimensions + time. Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. Here we enter the realm of the spiritual and the reality of dreams. Ordinary dreams are transient; they come and go. Faith is real and permanent. All the rest of this chapter lists historical examples of real faith, and looks into the future with a God-revealed certain hope.
But perhaps the most surprising thing about these examples is this: All these people were still living by faith when they died. They did not receive the things promised; they only saw them and welcomed them from a distance. And they admitted that they were aliens and strangers on earth. People who say such things show that they are looking for a country of their own. If they had been thinking of the country they had left, they would have had opportunity to return. Instead, they were longing for a better country–a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared a city for them. ... These were all commended for their faith, yet none of them received what had been promised. God had planned something better for us so that only together with us would they be made perfect. |
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| Heb 121-13 Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, author and perfecter of our faith |
Following the great chapter on faith comes this "Therefore ..." We are encouraged to follow their example: 1. Throw off the sin that so easily entangles. 2. Persevere in the 'race' God has chosen for us. 3. Fix our eyes on Jesus so that we don't grow weary and lose heart. 4. Remember that the Lord disciplines those he loves, like a good father. Such training produces a harvest of righteousness and peace. 5. Therefore, strengthen your feeble arms and weak knees. |
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| Heb 1214-29 Live before Almighty God with awe |
The real presence of Almighty God must change our lives and thoughts. Live at peace with all men Be holy. Without holiness no one will see the Lord. See to it that no one misses the grace of God, no bitter root. See that no one is sexually immoral or is godless like Esau. You have not come to a burning mountain ... You have come to Mount Zion, to the heavenly Jerusalem to the city of the living God to thousands upon thousands of angels to the church of the firstborn to God, the judge of all men to Jesus the mediator of a new covenant, and to the sprinkled blood. Now ... "Once more I will shake not only the earth but also the heavens ..." 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. He is so, so much more than 'a benevolent old man in the sky', as many think!! On the day when we all stand before him, will Jesus be our Judge or our Advocate?
Jesus, thy blood and righteousness
Bold shall I stand in that great day,
The holy, meek, unspotted Lamb, |
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| Heb 131-25 Final Pastoral Instructions |
The book finishes with a whole series of instructions for holy living. e.g. Keep on loving each other as brothers. Do not forget to entertain strangers. Remember those in prison as if you were their fellow prisoners. Marriage should be honoured by all. Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, "Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you." Note the context of this assurance. Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you. Do not be carried away by all kinds of strange teachings. Obey your leaders and submit to their authority ... Pray for us. |
| James 11 Greeting |
James writes as a ‘servant of God’ primarily, but not exclusively to his fellow Jews |
| James 12-4 Benefit of trials |
First item in letter is dealing with Christian suffering. Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds. Why? For this is a big ask. James answers this question. He simply says, the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. Don’t just think of the current discomfort, but take the long view. Remember what Jesus told his apostles at the Last Supper. A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted me, they will also persecute you. Jn 1520 Next question is How? Joy in suffering is not easy. Jesus also told them that when he sent the Spirit, he will reveal truth and enable you. Remember how the Reformation martyrs suffered and died with such dignity, without complaint and often praying for their persecutors. Today the many who suffer under Muslim and Hindu regimes. In UK Christian suffering is mostly from being despised, ridiculed or just ignored. Our response will be noted |
| James 15-8 Ask for wisdom |
The world is too often foolish and blasphemous. Leaders especially need wisdom to navigate the numerous obstacles and opportunities. But wisdom comes from God, not human intellect. Few seek God for wisdom. And even fewer ask God believing that he will give it generously. Hence the instability of men and nations. |
| James 19-11 Lowly are exalted |
In the plan of God the humble will be exalted and the proud abased. Lu 1411 Riches and power come and go. All flowers blossom and fade, even mountains move, but the word of God and the covenant of God stand for ever. Man’s time on earth is short. Then what happens to all his achievements - and failures? |
| James 112-18 Temptation |
Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life. So beware of falling into temptation. God himself tempts no one. But each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire. Do not be deceived for God’s gifts are perfect. With him there is no variation or shadow due to change. He brought us forth by the word of truth. Faith, belief, salvation comes through the revelation of the word of God. |
| James 119-27 Listen and respond |
Most of us, young and old, would do well to heed the instruction: be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger ... But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. Refusing to listen and not having an ambition to learn is the response of a proud man who is deceived. James repeats this warning: anyone who does not bridle his tongue but deceives his heart, this person's religion is worthless. Thus what we choose to read or hear, and our response to it are both important. And they will often reveal our state of mind and heart. So take care. |
| James 21-13 Partiality |
Show no partiality. ... has not God chosen those who are poor in the world to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom. Partiality is no less a sin because it is so common. James gives a good example of the graded response to a rich / famous man who comes into a church. It is also true of missions in how they respond to the giving of larger gifts. Jesus revealed the truth and the sin of partiality in the example of the woman who gave two copper coins They were more than all the rich gave. Lu 211-4 |
| James 214-26 Faith + Works |
Faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead. So is works without faith. As the body needs both air and food to live, so Faith and works must also be partners for salvation. Noah believed God, he saw the significance af the pitch (= Atonement) and he did everything just as God commanded him. Thus Noah was a righteous man who walked with God and was enabled to be obedient. James quotes how Abraham believed God when shown the stars and he obeyed God when told to offer his son as a sacrifice. (At the last moment Isaac was spared and a ram was substituted; but for the Son of God, our substitute, there would be no substitute.) |
| James 31-12 Taming the tongue |
Not many of you should become teachers. Why? Because few are able to control the tongue. The tongue is a small member, yet it boasts of great things. ... The tongue is a fire, a world of unrighteousness. ... From the same mouth come blessing and cursing. My brothers, these things ought not to be so. How can it be tamed? Only by the grace of God’s presence to change our hearts. As Jesus said, “For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks.” Math 1234 Learning to speak the truth in a deceitful world is vital. So is knowing when to speak and when to be silent. This old ditty is helpful for all and perhaps explains why there are few good teachers. “The wise old owl sat in a oak, the more he saw the less he spoke, the less the spoke the more he heard. Wasn’t he a wise old bird!” The desire to listen and learn will always remain good value. |
| James 313-18 Works with meekness, not pride |
Good works need to be completed in the meekness of wisdom. If they aren’t then they will inevitably lead to a degree of bitter jealousy and selfish ambition. Also disorder and every vile practice. It will be false to the truth. James then lists the value of meek wisdom when it governs good works: the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere. The motivation for all such works is not to benefit me or my reputation, but others. Like the sheep (compared with the goats) in Math 2537-39 |
| James 41-12 War - national and local |
Why have people so often resorted to fighting each other? Many reasons. James heads the list with: You covet and cannot obtain, so you fight and quarrel. Simple! It is the 10th Commandment (Do not covet) that men have always found so difficult keep. Greed leads to jealousy and anger. It is so important that we treasure what is righteous and our goals are not set to enhance our pride and/or reputation. As James continues, You do not have, because you do not ask. You ask and do not receive, because you ask wrongly, to spend it on your passions. Wrong goals. Jesus said, Seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness. Math 633 Then our ‘fight’ will be different, and we will no longer wrestle against flesh and blood. Eph 612 Our fight will have a different objective and use different weapons. “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” We have much to learn. The greatest battle ever fought was at Calvary 2,000 years ago. And Jesus won!! “Days are filled with guns and war, and everyone got trampled on the floor, I wish we’d all been ready.” Larry Norman |
| James 413-17 Tomorrow ? |
Some are careless about tomorrow - ‘let us eat, drink and be merry, for tomorrow we may die’ (Is 2213) attitude. Others are presumptuous - they super plan their future (and usually their fortune) without any consideration about what happens when they die. But James reveals the truth is that You do not know what tomorrow will bring. 1. We all need to be ready for that day; ready to stand before Almighty God and plead only the sacrifice of Jesus. 2. We need to make the best use of every day that the Lord gives as he directs us. 3. Nothing takes the Lord by surprise. Each day’s events are in the hands of God. "From life's first cry to final breath, Jesus commands my destiny." He also commands the destiny and events that unfold across his world. Let us be like Enoch and Noah, who ‘walked with God’. Gen 522 69 And say “If the Lord wills, we will live and do this or that.” |
| James 51-6 Riches condemn |
The world clamours for riches; they fight and deceive to achieve it. But here is an unpopular warning: you rich, weep and howl for the miseries that are coming upon you. ... your gold and silver will be evidence against you. Why? Because of what men do to first obtain riches and then what they do (or don’t do) to retain it. As Paul
warned the love of money is a root of all kinds of evils. 1 Tim 610 In the story Jesus told about the rich man and Lazarus, the sin of the rich man was not his wealth, but that he lived content without God. His money blinded the truth that he was a condemned sinner in need of a Saviour. The rich nearly always live on the earth in luxury and in self-indulgence. And again, as Jesus revealed, where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. Math 621 I’d rather have Jesus than silver or gold ... I’d rather have Jesus than men’s applause ... I’d rather be true to his holy name. |
| James 57-11 Patience in suffering |
They were expecting the Lord to return, but he seemed to be delayed. Suffering persecution was to be expected; the Lord had several times warned them of this. To endure it for a short time is easier than for many years. So James instructs them: be patient. Establish your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand. Do not grumble. Then he reminds them of the experience and example of Job. |
| James 512 Faithfulness |
This is a simple but important command: let your “yes” be yes and your “no” be no. We need to have a reputation for being reliable, truthful and consistent. And we should not need to swear something on oath for it to be the truth. |
| James 513-19 Prayer and praise |
Prayer is vital in all areas of life. In singing praise, in sickness, seeking forgiveness guidance, politics and evangelism. Consider Elijah; first no rain, then torrents! Remember: The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working. |
1 Peter [Contents]
| 1 Peter 11-5 Christian hope is well founded |
Peter wrote to the Christians in Asia minor in ~65 AD to encourage true hope. He begins with our foundation: Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you, who by God's power are being guarded through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. Jesus Christ is the founder, revealer, protector and the origin of God's mercy. |
| 1 Peter 16-9 Faith is tested |
Some in the church thought that believing in Christ would lead to an easy life. They were surprised at the hostility and persecution they received. Why should their faith be tested by fire ? How could it be found to result in praise and glory and honour at the revelation of Jesus Christ ? Peter confirms that time will prove this to be true. Jesus had told him what he would have to endure at the end - and he knew suffering was only for a short while. |
| 1 Peter 110-12 Christ to suffer + glorified |
The prophets who prophesied about the grace that was to be yours searched and inquired carefully ... They had to resolve the revelation which predicted that the Christ who would have to suffer and also be glorified. It is easier for us to see this knowing Jesus was crucified and resurrected. |
| 1 Peter 113-25 Holiness, our objective |
It is said that 'what a man thinks, that he is, or will soon become'. The very practical Peter says, "Therefore, preparing your minds for action ... As he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, since it is written, 'You shall be holy, for I am holy'." Paul writes, Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind. Ro 122 In all our different skills let us always remember you were ransomed from the futile ways inherited from your forefathers, not with perishable things such as silver or gold, but with the precious blood of Christ. ... since you have been born again, not of perishable seed but of imperishable, through the living and abiding word of God. |
| 1 Peter 21-5, 9-12 Living stones |
As you come to him, a living stone rejected by men but in the sight of God chosen and precious, you yourselves like living stones are being built up as a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. What a privilege for all believers to be 'a holy priesthood', able to enter the holy place and the mercy seat, forgiven and wearing white robes given to us by the Lord. The church needs leaders, elders; but all who believe are 'priests'. Churches should never have 'rood screens', altars and priests. Our 'spiritual sacrifice' is to put away all malice and all deceit and hypocrisy and envy and all slander. Learn to live lives that are holy and true. You are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvellous light. Once you were not a people, but now you are God's people; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy. May our gratitude be proven by our behaviour. |
| 1 Peter 26-8 The Stone - rejected or precious |
A stone of stumbling, and a rock of offense. ... They stumble because they disobey the word. Or Behold, I am laying in Zion a stone, a cornerstone chosen and precious. ... The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone. |
| 1 Peter 213 - 322 Submission |
Peter instructs us to be willing to submit to: 1. Every human institution, governors as sent by him to punish those who do evil and to praise those who do good. Presumably this does not include a government that only punishes those who disobey it, or one that does evil and not good. What happens if the government is a mix of good and evil? 2. Servants, be subject to your masters with all respect, not only to the good and gentle but also to the unjust. ... if when you do good and suffer for it you endure, this is a gracious thing in the sight of God. For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example ... This would suggest that while the free can object to slavery, slaves are not at liberty to do so! Personally I find this a difficult area, especially as slavery is now illegal in the UK. And rightly so. 3. Wives, be subject to your own husbands, so that even if some do not obey the word, they may be won without a word by the conduct of their wives, when they see your respectful and pure conduct. Peter prefaces this verse with the word 'Likewise'. But having a wife is a great privilege and should not in any way be like owning a slave! She is a respected partner and a treasure. 4. Finally, all of you, live in harmony with one another. This has a submission element, and is certainly a great ideal. But in this life it seems it is impossible to always agree with everyone. The problem comes with disagreements that are fundamental and have a scriptural basis. If a bishop says that homosexuality is fine; I find any real harmony more than difficult! But the principle remains; Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect. |
| 1 Peter 41-6 Living for God |
Therefore, since Christ suffered in his body, arm yourselves also with the same attitude. Paul said much the same in his letter to the Romans. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Ro 122 The world desires wealth, popularity, ease and comfort, pleasures ... We must learn a different attitude, holiness, righteousness, generosity, self sacrifice, willingness to be ridiculed, and maybe even suffering. The world caused Jesus to suffer; and he told us that what they did to him, they would also do to us. Our example will have different reactions to those set on the world's attitudes. |
| 1 Peter 47-11 Urgent days: Urgent action! |
The end of all things is near. Therefore be clear minded and self-controlled so that you can pray. The days of opportunity are few, and getting less: Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God's grace ... so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. |
| 1 Peter 412-19 When is a surprise not a surprise? |
Do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering. In many countries, persecution is expected; it is the norm! It has been said that the growth of the true church is enabled by the blood of the martyrs. But in the West, we need to hear these words of Peter. Many currently teach that following Christ will solve all our problems. They will be very surprised when our rulers put us in prison for proclaiming that Christ came to bear the punishment we deserve, and thus redeem us. If you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name. ... So then, those who suffer according to God's will should commit themselves to their faithful Creator and continue to do good. |
| 1 Peter 51-14 Final instructions |
1. Elders. Be shepherds of God's flock that is under your care ... eager to serve ... 2. Young men. Be submissive ... clothe yourselves with humility ... Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. 3. All. Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith. ... your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kind of sufferings. The God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast. |
2 Peter [Contents]
This 2nd letter to the Christians of Asia Minor has an almost identical introduction as the 1st letter.
His principal concerns this time are false teachers and the return of Jesus Christ.
| 2 Peter 13-11 God secures our calling |
His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness. Through these he has given us his very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature and escape the corruption in the world caused by evil desires. The emphasis is on the fact that our calling to a new life is the gift of God, and is in no way earned. God's promises given to us are true, reliable and effective. They enable us to begin the transformation to be righteous and holy like him. How else can we escape the lures that Satan sets to entice the world away from its Creator? Our faith is being sure of what Jesus has done for us and given to us, (Heb 111) and to which we should make every effort to add goodness, knowledge, self-control, perseverance, godliness, brotherly kindness and love. This is a good goal. And obeying this instruction will keep us from falling and ensure a rich welcome into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. |
| 2 Peter 112-21 The value of reminding |
So I will always remind you of these things, even though you know them and are firmly established in the truth. Why? Peter reminds us so that we don't forget Jesus Christ! Sounds incredible. At a local Methodist harvest festival Jesus Christ was not even mentioned. Jesus repeatedly tells the disciples that he was going up to Jerusalem to die. Why? Because they didn't understand and forgot so easily. Every Passover we are told to remember what God did to rescue the Israelites. Jesus tells us at the Lord's Supper: "Do this in remembrance of me". In 'The Fiddler on the Roof' the violinist continually reminds the Jews; who they are and what God intends for them - as if they didn't know. The business of preaching is not to tell us new and exciting thoughts, but to constantly remind us of all the essential truths of Christ and his work. Peter was about to be taken home and he wanted to ensure they didn't forget. The unfolding of your word gives light. Ps 119130 His task was to ensure the church was anchored to the Word of God and grounded on the work of Christ. Above all, you must understand that no prophecy of Scripture came about by the prophet's own interpretation. ... but men spoke from God. It is arrogant blasphemy that modern so-called scholarship thinks it can 'correct' what Almighty God has spoken to the prophets. How firm a foundation, ye saints of the Lord, Is laid for your faith in His excellent word! What more can He say than to you He hath said, To you who for refuge to Jesus have fled? |
| 2 Peter 21-22/Small> False teachers. |
But there were also false prophets among the people, just as there will be false teachers among you. They will secretly introduce destructive heresies, even denying the sovereign Lord who bought them. Today we see this truth being repeated by popular liberal leaders. 1. Necessary redemption for our sin by Christ crucified ignored/denied. 2. Multi-faith instead of only one way to heaven through Jesus Christ. 3. God's eternal unconditional covenant with the Jews ignored/denied. 4. Evolution Theory instead of Almighty od's creation. 5. Homosexuality taught by bishops to be ok, when God declares it an abomination. 6. Judgement of the flood in Noah's day and Sodom also current judgement and future Tribulation are all ignored/denied. 7. Sabbath just a holiday to do anything, not to remember God's creation and to worship Almighty God. 8. Jewish feasts ignored, and Sabbath replaced by idol worshipping Constantine. Peter warns us graphically of such national leaders who teach this folly, and even of some in the church. Many will follow their shameful ways and will bring the way of truth into disrepute. In their greed these teachers will exploit you with stories they have made up. ... They will be paid back with hrm for the harm they have done. ... Their condemnation has long been hanging over them ... This is especially true of those who follow the corrupt desire of the sinful nature and despise authority. ... These men blaspheme in matters they do not understand ... With eyes full of adultery, they never stop sinning; they seduce the unstable; they are experts in greed – an accursed brood! ... They promise them freedom, while they themselves are slaves of depravity. Beware! These false teachers often come gradually so we don't suspect them. Paul also warned the Ephesian church to be alert: I know that after I leave, savage wolves will come in among you and will not spare the flock. Even from your own number men will arise and distort the truth in order to draw away disciples after them. So be on your guard! Acts 2029,30 Believers are not free to do whatever we like; we are set free to be able to choose righteousness and truth. We need discernment, humility and honesty in days of great deceit/heresies. The righteous judgement by God is inevitable; but it is not inescapable. (e.g. Noah, Lot ... 25,7) |
| 2 Peter 31-16 In the Last Days |
Peter now turns his attention to the end times. Will it be better or worse than now? And when will it come to pass? I want you to recall the words spoken in the past by the holy prophets and the command given by our Lord and Saviour through your apostles. He insists that to understand the future, we must know what God has said about the past and the present. (i.e. 1 Pe and 2 Pe 1,2) First of all, you must understand that in the last days scoffers will come, scoffing and following their own evil desires. They will say, "Where is this 'coming' he promised?" The attitude of the world will be scoffing and derision about God. They will deliberately forget that long ago by God's word the heavens existed and the earth was formed ... This has now happened The Evolution Theory lie is now officially taught by nearly every country, and creation by God is mocked. The world also deliberately forgets and thinks it a ridiculous story that By these waters also the world of that time was deluged and destroyed. Thus with great arrogance past truth concerning judgement is cast aside. No wonder God revealed to Peter that any future judgement would be mocked too. By the same word the present heavens and earth are reserved for fire, being kept fo the day of judgment and destruction of ungodly men. The Lord is sure to keep this promise, it may seem slow because He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance. His gracious offer will be rejected and scorned. As Jesus warned few will be ready. See Math 2436 - 2546 Nevertheless the day of the Lord will come like a thief. The heavens will disappear with a roar; the elements will be destroyed by fire, and the earth and everything in it will be laid bare. As in the day when Noah entered the Ark and God shut him in - and all the wicked and scornful were shut out! There will be a lot of foolish men with eternal regret. What about the righteous in Christ, what will happen to them? We are instructed to live holy and godly lives as you look forward to the day of God and speed its coming. ... And in keeping with his promise we are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth, the home of righteousness. |
| 2 Peter 317,18 Final instruction |
Therefore, dear friends, since you already know this, be on your guard so that you may not be carried away by the error of lawless men and fall from your secure position. But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. |
1 John [Contents]
John’s purpose in writing was to confirm the identity of Jesus as the Son of God, our Redeemer.
| 1 Jn 11-4 Personal evidence |
John open by confirming that what he was writing was what he personally witnessed of Jesus - what he had heard and saw and touched. Concrete, irrefutable evidence. Few could testify Concerning the word of life— the life was made manifest, and we have seen it, and testify to it and proclaim to you the eternal life, which was with the Father and was made manifest to us. Not only had he been with Jesus from the beginning, but the life he had been given by Jesus enabled him to continue that fellowship. Indeed our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son Jesus Christ. |
| 1 Jn 15-10 Walking in the light |
What does this mean? How can we walk in the light? 1. Truth that reveals our sins and which must be confessed to God and to others. If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. 2. Forgiveness through trusting in the blood of Jesus. Together this enables true fellowship and the truth of his word to be in us. But without this we are deceived and walk in darkness. |
| 1 Jn 21-6 Christ our Advocate |
We have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous. When we confess our sin, Jesus admits to heaven’s court we are guilty, but that he has already fulfilled the just punishment of death to enable our pardon. He is thus able to be the propitiation for our sins. Our escape from the ‘wages of sin’ does not seem fair. But Jesus and the court agree that he is both faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 19 |
| 1 Jn 27-11 Love, not hate your brother |
John was writing a general letter to all the churches of Asia minor, where in the early years there was various squabbles especially between Jews and Gentiles regarding circumcision etc. This ‘New Commandment’ was intended to calm this war. Love does not pretend that nothing is wrong when there is clearly error. e.g. the spat between Paul and Peter. (Gal 211-14) Paul had to warn the Ephesian elders that ‘wolves’ would arise from among them (Act 2028-31). Jesus spoke strongly against the Pharisees in Math 23. (They proved they were not his ‘brothers’). Jesus loved Judas and invited him to sit next to him at the last supper. But then had to tell him to go and ‘do quickly’ (Jn 1327) his evil betrayal. Today, how should we resist the Pope or the two English Archbishops when they promote such evil as homosexuality and ‘multi faith’ in order to gain public popularity. Being aware of the danger of having ‘a beam in my own eye’, when and how should we fight and resist such evil. Is it ‘love’ to take the easy road and just ignore such blatant error? I have no easy answer. |
| 1 Jn 212-14 Purpose of the letter |
John wrote to fathers, young men and children because they would read it! They would read it because they knew the father, that their sins were forgiven and they were strong because the word of God abides in you and you have overcome the evil one. |
| 1 Jn 215-17 Do not love the world |
That is: the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride of life. i.e. the backbone of the £22billion/year UK advertising industry which is to entice rather than inform. |
| 1 Jn 218-29 The last hour? |
Many antichrists have come. Therefore we know that it is the last hour. Thus we must conclude that God wants us to continually live in this reality. John’s surprising warning: They went out from us, but they were not of us ... I write to you, not because you do not know the truth, but because you know it. This is the antichrist, he who denies the Father and the Son. Muslims deny that the Father has a Son, and humanists deny both Father and Son. John wrote because they, and others, are trying to deceive you. Only by ‘abiding in Christ’ can we discern the truth and separate it from the many lies, fake news and popular media evil. Everyone who practices righteousness has been born of him. |
2 John [Contents]
This letter was written to particular lady in a church warning her about offering hospitality to false teachers who were using the kindness of Christians.
| 2 Jn 11-3 Greeting |
The elder to the elect lady and her children, whom I love in truth, and not only I, but also all who know the truth, because of the truth that abides in us and will be with us forever. |
| 2 Jn 14-15 Love and beware |
John first reminds them of the importance of loving one another. Then he warns them about; Many deceivers ... those who do not confess the coming of Jesus Christ in the flesh.... Watch yourselves. Then he tells her do not receive him into your house or give him any greeting. Such ‘black and white’ advice must have made for some difficult decisions! He would have preferred a personal visit rather than a paper letter. |
3 John [Contents]
| 3 Jn 11-4 Written to Gaius |
Normal greeting. Glad to hear you (Gaius) are walking in the truth. |
| 3 Jn 15-15 |
We ought to support people like these, that we may be fellow workers for the truth. There was obviously trouble in the church because Diotrephes was claiming more authority than the Apostles, and putting out of the church any who disagreed with him. John’s message is clear: Beloved, do not imitate evil, but imitate good. Also Demetrius is bringing confirmation that our testimony is true. I hope to see you soon. |
Jude [Contents]
The younger brother of James, the Jerusalem leader, Jude was concerned about the gnostic influence in the church.
| Jude 11-16 Need to contend faith |
Certain men ... have secretly slipped in among you. They are godless men, who change the grace of our God into a license for immorality and deny Jesus Christ ... Gnostics claim that only the spirit matters and since the body dies, it has no importance. This is an enticing way of saying immorality has no significance. They did not advertise this but just turned a 'blind eye' to such behaviour. Jude rightly condemns such men as godless and likens them to Sodom. Therefore "Woe to them!" They feel no shame in their perversion. "See, the Lord is coming ... to convict all the ungodly of all the ungodly acts they have done ..." These men ... follow their own evil desires; they boast about themselves and flatter others for their own advantage. |
| Jude 117-19 Remember |
Remember what the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ foretold. They said to you, "In the last times there will be scoffers who will follow their own ungodly desires." As Peter said, they would scoff at any parts of the Word of God they did not like, and especially about anything that is unpopular - like holy living or judgement. They delight to say that 'love' is the only thing that matters - like Bishop Curry at Prince Harry and Meghan's marriage. |
| Jude 120,21 Build faith by patient prayer |
Build yourselves up in your most holy faith and pray in the Holy Spirit. Keep yourselves in God's love as you wait for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ to bring you to eternal life. It is better to keep our eyes and our hope on eternal life with the Lord God than to be focussed on current worldly pursuits. Use the present to build the future. |
| Jude 122,23 Be merciful |
Be merciful to those who doubt; snatch others from the fire and save them; to others show mercy, mixed with fear–hating even the clothing stained by corrupted flesh. Seek to win others by encouraging them to seek God's mercy and thus avoid eternal judgement. A holy fear can be constructive. |
| Jude 124,25 Doxology |
To him who is able to keep you from falling and to present you before his glorious presence without fault and with great joy – to the only God our Saviour be glory, majesty, power and authority, through Jesus Christ our Lord, before all ages, now and forevermore! Amen. |
Revelation [Contents]
The revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave him to show his servants what must soon take place.
Almighty God states the simple, clear purpose of the book:
1. To reveal Jesus Christ to all who read it.
2. To reveal the end-time events that will soon take place.
Many avoid reading it because it is incorrectly thought to be too difficult or too controversial.
The Lord wants to reveal all we need to know about future events - but not all we may want to know.
It must be read with a humble and contrite spirit. The revelation is often contrary to popular ideas about the Almighty. A proud man will usually refuse to tremble at the word of God. Is 662
Being warned of the future events will greatly enhance our confidence in the faithfulness and truth of God.
"The Word of God is true and the people of God are safe" David Pawson.
| Rev 11-3 Blessing of God is promised |
The detailed revelation of and by Jesus is given to John by an angel who testifies to everything he saw–that is, the word of God and the testimony of Jesus Christ. Who is blessed? Those who read it, those who hear it and those who take it to heart. The fact that the time is near should encourage us to read it immediately! |
| Rev 14-8 John introduces Jesus to Churches |
All the book is written to the seven churches that are in Asia - and all other churches. Written by John, the book is from him who is and who was and who is to come ... Jesus Christ is described as The faithful witness, the firstborn of the dead and the ruler of kings on earth. Him who loves us and has freed us from our sins by his blood ... to him be glory and dominion forever and ever. The subject matter of the book is declared - Behold, he is coming ! The author's self description is "I am the Alpha and the Omega," says the Lord God, "who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty." Or as he earlier told Moses, his name is "I AM". Exd 314 It often seems today that we have little concept of the sheer greatness of God. This may be a good reason to emphasise it strongly in the opening verses. In the Tribulation it will be most valuable to know God is always the Lord Almighty |
| Rev 19-20 John is given vision of Jesus John given instructions |
John was being persecuted for preaching the Word of God and the testimony of Jesus. A loud voice tells him to Write what you see in a book and send it to the 7 churches. He sees Jesus robed in white, his eyes were like a flame of fire, ... and his voice was like the roar of many waters. In his right hand he held seven stars, from his mouth came a sharp two-edged sword, and his face was like the sun shining in full strength. John, seeing the greatness of Jesus Christ, falls at his feet. He is told, "Fear not, I am the first and the last, and the living one. I died, and behold I am alive forevermore, and I have the keys of Death and Hades." He is again told to write what he had seen so that we may catch the same vision. Write therefore the things that you have seen, those that are and those that are to take place after this. Since the Lord gave the instruction to put it all in writing, he clearly expects the future generations to be able to understand it. He even reveals the significant meaning of what was in his right hand: the seven golden lampstands are the seven churches, and the seven stars are the angels (leaders) of the seven churches. It is to each of these 7 leaders that he then dictates a personal letter. 7 letters that also apply to all Christian churches for the next 2,000 years. Their form and their summary are given on the next page: |
| Rev 41-11 The Throne of God |
John is shown a door standing open in heaven! He is immediately instructed: "Come up here, and I will show you what must take place after this." John describes the jewelled throne and the 24 crowned elders dressed in white, also seated on thrones. Before the throne were 7 torches of fire = 7 spirits of God. There were also 4 living creatures, full of eyes and each with 6 wings. They never cease to say, "Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord God Almighty, who was and is and is to come!" The 24 elders cast their crowns before the throne and say, "Worthy are you, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honour and power, for you created all things, and by your will they existed and were created." |
| Rev 51-14 The Scroll Only the Lamb can open it |
Centre-stage focus in all the rest of Revelation is the sealed scroll. What was written on it that makes it so important? Why did it have to have to be sealed so carefully? And I saw a mighty angel proclaiming with a loud voice, "Who is worthy to open the scroll and break its seals?" Thus John is presented with these 3 vital questions and no answers! Instead of entering heaven with rejoicing and singing, we find John weeping loudly! For no one in heaven or on earth or under the earth was able to open the scroll or to look into it. But heaven did have an answer - 3 answers in one. One of the elders said to me, "Weep no more; behold, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has conquered, so that he can open the scroll and its seven seals." What had Jesus done, what had he conquered and how? He, the Lamb of God, had been crucified and paid the redemption price in full. He was the only one who was without sin and could be the perfect sacrifice. He had conquered sin and death. Only he had the authority to break open the seals. Heaven could be populated; creation would not be wasted. The scroll contained all the names of those redeemed. It is the Lamb's book of life. It is the last (and only) will and testament of the Son of God. And could only come into affect after his death. It was most carefully sealed so that no names could be added or erased. It was similar to the day when God judged the earth in the days of Noah; When the animals and 'the eight' were safely in the Ark, God shut them in. No more could enter the Ark, and none could (or wanted) to dive overboard! As the seals are opened by Jesus Christ, his righteous judgements are unleashed upon rebellious and sinful men during the Great Tribulation. In the same way that after the door of the Ark was shut, the flood came and destroyed all on the earth. John's eyes then see a Lamb standing, as though it had been slain. All heaven - elders, living creatures, and angels - then join to sing a new song: "Worthy are you to take the scroll and to open its seals, for you were slain, and by your blood you ransomed people for God from every tribe and language and people and nation, and you have made them a kingdom and priests to our God, and they shall reign on the earth." "Worthy is the Lamb who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and might and honour and glory and blessing!" "To him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be blessing and honour and glory and might forever and ever!" "Amen!" And although scripture does not record it, I think we may safely assume that John obeyed the instruction to stop weeping! What an introduction to heaven. Almighty God revealed this to him, and he reveals it to us. We will need to recall it throughout the days of tribulation and persecution. In Rev 6-18 the Lord reveals what is largely a chronological account of the events that will occur during the Great Tribulation. The wise will be ready for them. |
| Rev 61-8 Seals 1 to 4 are opened |
It is vital to realise that it is Jesus, the mighty Lamb, who opens each of the 7 seals. Each of the 4 living creatures orders one of the 4 horsemen order to "Come!" 1. Behold, a white horse! And its rider had a bow, and a crown was given to him, and he came out conquering, and to conquer. It may be significant that no mention is made of arrows; so his 'conquering' may be political / financial, rather than military. 2. Another horse, bright red. Its rider was permitted to take peace from the earth, so that people should slay one another, and he was given a great sword. 3. Behold, a black horse! And its rider had a pair of scales in his hand. Famine that affects mostly the poor. Told "do not harm the oil and wine!" 4. Behold, a pale horse! And its rider's name was Death, and Hades followed him. Disease and sickness. These 4 horsemen were given authority over a fourth of the earth, to kill with sword and with famine and with pestilence and by wild beasts of the earth. If the world population is ~8 billion, that would mean 2,000 million will die!! Remember, scripture clearly says this is ordered by the Lord Jesus. We may need to significantly revise our understanding of why he is going to do this. It is so different from 'Gentle Jesus, meek and mild'. Sin and rebellion against the Lord our Creator has dire consequences. |
| Rev 69-17 Seal 5 and 6 opened |
When he opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of those who had been slain for the word of God and for the witness they had borne. They cried out with a loud voice, "O Sovereign Lord, holy and true, how long before you will judge and avenge our blood on those who dwell on the earth?" I wonder what you or I would have cried? They sought justice rather than revenge. They were each given a white robe and told to rest a little longer until the last of the martyrs had been killed. Open Doors report that at least 11 people die every day 'for the word of God and for the witness they had borne', and it is increasing rather than declining - so those in white robes are still 'resting' patiently.
When he opened the sixth seal, I looked, and behold, there was a great earthquake, and the sun became black as sackcloth, the full moon became like blood, and the stars of the sky fell to the earth. |
| Rev 71-8 144,000 of Israel sealed |
In the midst of God's judgements he gives us his words of relief. This is one such. John is shown 4 angels who are holding back the destructive winds. They are told by another angel continue the restraint until we have sealed the servants of our God on their foreheads. Their number was to be 12,000 from each tribe of Israel. There are some anomalies. There are 11 sons of Jacob, Dan is missing. One of Joseph's sons is added (Manasseh), but not the other (Ephraim). I don't know why. The significance of the sealing is not obvious. Nor is the possibility that the numbers may be representative rather than literal. However it certainly shows that Almighty God is in complete control of all the events on earth, and that he ensures that his chosen ones have his full protection. This is a great encouragement. |
| Rev 79-17 A great multitude worship God |
Alongside the previous section concerning Jews, John is now shown a great multitude that no one could number, from every nation, from all tribes and peoples and languages, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed in white robes. Like the great multitude in 198,9 and the martyrs in 611 they are dressed in white linen - righteous deeds. They loudly proclaim, "Salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb!" And the elders respond, "Amen! Blessing and glory and wisdom and thanksgiving and honour and power and might be to our God forever and ever! Amen." One of the elders then questions John, "Who are these, clothed in white robes, and from where have they come?" John did not like to guess, so returns the question to the elder, who replies: "These are the ones coming out of the great tribulation. They have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb." "Therefore they are before the throne of God and serve him ... They shall hunger no more, neither thirst anymore ... For the Lamb in the midst of the throne will be their shepherd, and he will guide them to springs of living water, and God will wipe away every tear from their eyes." Note that he says 'coming out' of tribulation (present tense), not have come ... John sees them arriving in heaven. Beyond tribulation and persecution, life just gets better and better. It far exceeds the best dreams of a happy ending. The question 'who are these' was important. The Lord clearly wanted to ensure that John knew who these people were, how and why they came to be arriving in heaven, and what awaited them. |
| Rev 81-5 The 7th Seal Fire in Golden Censer |
When the Lamb opened the seventh seal, there was silence in heaven ... The 7th seal introduces the 7 trumpets, and the 7th trumpet will then introduce the 7 bowls of wrath. 7 angels are each given a trumpet. Golden censer filled with much incense (prayers of the saints) is filled with fire, then thrown onto the earth. There were peals of thunder, rumblings, flashes of lightning, and an earthquake. If the 6 seals did not awaken the earth to the presence of the Lord God, there would now be no excuse. |
| Rev 86-13 First 4 trumpets are blown |
1. The first angel blew his trumpet, and there followed hail and fire, mixed with blood, and these were thrown upon the earth. And a third of the earth was burned up, and a third of the trees were burned up, and all green grass was burned up. 2. The second angel blew his trumpet, and something like a great mountain, burning with fire, was thrown into the sea, and a third of the sea became blood. A third of the living creatures in the sea died, and a third of the ships were destroyed. 3. The third angel blew his trumpet, and a great star fell from heaven, blazing like a torch, and it fell on a thrd of the rivers and on the springs of water. The name of the star is Wormwood. A third of the waters became wormwood, and many people died from the water, because it had been made bitter. 4. The fourth angel blew his trumpet, and a third of the sun was struck, and a third of the moon, and a third of the stars, so that a third of their light might be darkened, and a third of the day might be kept from shining, and likewise a third of the night.
These first 4 trumpets were not just a sound from the Albert Hall, but were a series of very practical world-wide painful, catastrophic disasters. And this was just a warning, a small sample, of what was to come. Such was the extent of wickedness and blasphemy. When I was a boy (70 years ago) we would quite often see men with bill-boards that read on both sides "Beware of the wrath to come!" Few took any notice, and most were mocked as 'cranks'. |
| Rev 91-11 5th trumpet = 1st Woe |
5. The fifth angel blew his trumpet, and I saw a star fallen from heaven to earth, and he was given the key to the shaft of the bottomless pit. He opened the shaft of the bottomless pit, and from the shaft rose smoke like the smoke of a great furnace ... from the smoke came locusts on the earth, and they were given power like the power of scorpions of the earth. They were told not to harm the grass ... but only those people who did not have the seal of God on their foreheads. They were allowed to torment them for 5 months, but not to kill them ... The locusts were like horses, and their king was Apollyon - a fallen angel. This demonic attack was just the first Woe. |
| Rev 912-21 6th trumpet = 2nd Woe |
6. Then the sixth angel blew his trumpet, and I heard a voice ... saying to the sixth angel who had the trumpet, "Release the four angels ..." They control 200 million 'troops' who kill a third of mankind ... by the fire and smoke and sulphur coming out of their mouths. The remaining 2/3's did not repent of any of their evil ways. So another 2,000 million die, just as they did when the 4th Seal was opened. Together that is a full half of the world's population. c.f. 50 million in WW2. |
| Rev 101-11
A mighty angel roars. Eats a little scroll |
John told not to write what the 7 thunders of the mighty angel said. Just told that in the days of the 7th trumpet call ... the mystery of God would be fulfilled, just as he announced to his servants the prophets. Then told to eat the little scroll that the mighty angel held in his hand. It was sweet to taste, but bitter in the stomach. As it was in Jer 1515-18 "You must again prophesy about many peoples and nations and languages and kings." And the prophecy would be mostly God's judgement upon the wicked. |
| Rev 111-14 Two Witnesses and the 2nd Woe |
John is given a measuring rod to measure the Temple and those who worship there, but told not to include the court that was to be given to the nations. They will trample the holy city for 42 months. I will grant authority to my two witnesses, and they will prophesy for 1460 days clothed in sackcloth (17 days short of 42 months). They are given power to kill any who would harm them, power to stop rain, power to bring every kind of plague. Only when their testimony is complete will the Beast be able to rise up and kill them. For 3½ days their bodies will lie in Jerusalem (symbolically called Sodom because so depraved) who will rejoice. Then Almighty God will raise them to life and with a loud voice call them to heaven. At that hour a great earthquake will kill 7,000. This is the 2nd Woe. |
| Rev 1115-19 7th Trumpet |
Then the seventh angel blew his trumpet, and there were loud voices in heaven, saying, "The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of his Christ, and he shall reign forever and ever." The 24 elders worshipped God saying, "We give thanks to you, Lord God Almighty, who is and who was, for you have taken your great power and begun to reign ... Your wrath came and the time for the dead to be judged, and for rewarding your servants, ... and for destroying the destroyers of the earth." ... There were flashes of lightning, rumblings, peals of thunder, an earthquake, and heavy hail. There follows a section till 145 where the Lord God reveals the spiritual reality behind the various events. |
| Rev 121-17 The Woman and the Dragon. |
The woman (Israel) is seen crying out in birth pains for the coming of Christ. Also seen is a dragon with 7 heads and 10 horns, who tried to devour the child. The child was caught up to God and his throne. The woman fled into a place in the wilderness prepared by God where she was nourished for 1260 days. Michael and his angels defeat the dragon, the great deceiver, the accuser. He is thrown down and conquered by the blood of the Lamb. Satan is angry because he knows that his time is short; so he makes war on the rest of the woman's offspring who keep the commandments of God and hold to the testimony of Jesus. And he stood on the sand of the sea. The next chapter reveals Satan's chief assistants, a demonic Beast and his winger, the False Prophet who strive to deceive and destroy. |
| Rev 131-10 The Beast |
John is shown a Beast having 10 horns with blasphemous names and 7 heads. Satan gave him all the power he could muster. One of his heads seemed to have a mortal wound, but its mortal wound was healed, and all the earth marvelled as they followed the Beast. And they worshipped the dragon. The arrogant and blasphemous beast allowed was authority for 42 months. Also it was allowed to make war on the saints and to conquer them. This together with Dan 721,25 824 shows there is no pre-tribulation rapture. |
| Rev 1311-18 The False Prophet |
Then I saw another beast rising out of the earth. It had two horns like a lamb and it spoke like a dragon. It exercises all the authority of the first beast. It performs great signs It deceives those who dwell on earth, telling them to make an image for the beast and is allowed to enable the image to speak. It causes all ... to be marked on the right hand or the forehead ... no one can buy or sell unless he has the mark ... his number is 666. The worst characteristic of this servant of Satan is its ability to deceive. Jesus warned us of this three times in Math 24. Many of the mega churches (~50 in US with 10 to 47 thousand attendees) e.g. Lakewood, Saddleback, Willow Creek etc and many other 'seeker sensitive', 'popular', 'entertainment style' churches find it easy to deceive thousands. Examine if they preach and believe all or just selected parts of scripture. Also examine the personal morals and wealth of the leaders. How many testimonies include the relief of knowing God has forgiven our sin? See 2 Thes 21-12 1 Tim 41,2 2 Tim 31-9 43,4 2 Pe 33-7 'Democratic' politics is often based on false promises or even wilful deception. How else can they secure our votes? One major deception today is the Evolution Theory which is taught as truth. God as Designer and Creator is scorned, and thus can safely be ignored! Ro 118-32 teaches us that this causes God to remove his protection and thus homosexuality will be, and now is, thought normal/good. UK Archbishops Welby and Sentamu both strongly support civil partnerships. The False Prophet will be powerful, highly blasphemous and openly evil. It will be very costly to resist or disobey - but even more costly to follow him! Believers will hold to the truth of God's Word: For the Lord has ransomed Jacob and has redeemed him from hands too strong for him. Jer 3111 |
| Rev 141-5 The Lamb and the 144,000 |
Then I looked, and behold, on Mount Zion stood the Lamb, and with him 144,000 who had his name and his Father's name written on their foreheads. John listened to their singing a new song that only they who follow the Lamb could sing. They are the firstfruits redeemed for God; blameless. |
| Rev 146-20 Harvest time |
A flying angel proclaims to all the earth: "Fear God and give him glory, because the hour of his judgment has come, and worship him who made heaven and earth, the sea and the springs of water." Then another angel says: "Fallen, fallen is Babylon the great, she who made all nations drink the wine of the passion of her sexual immorality." A third angel then proclaims in a loud voice: "If anyone worships the beast and its image and receives a mark on his forehead or on his hand, he also will drink the wine of God's wrath ..." Here is a call for the endurance of the saints, those who keep the commandments of God and their faith in Jesus. "Write this: Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on."
An angel came out of the temple calling with a loud voice: "Put in your sickle, and reap, for the hour to reap has come, for the harvest of the earth is fully ripe." |
| Rev 151-8 7 Angels with 7 plagues |
Almighty God now moves swiftly to complete his judgement of the wicked. Then I saw another sign in heaven, great and amazing, seven angels with seven plagues, which are the last, for with them the wrath of God is finished. John is also shown those had conquered the beast and its image. They sang the song of Moses and the song of the lamb saying: "Great and amazing are your deeds, O Lord God the Almighty! Just and true are your ways, O King of the nations! ... for your righteous acts have been revealed." |
| Rev 161-21 7 bowls of wrath |
Then I heard a loud voice from the temple telling the seven angels, "Go and pour out on the earth the seven bowls of the wrath of God." 1. Harmful and painful sores came upon the people who bore the mark of the beast and worshipped its image. 2. The sea became like the blood of a corpse, and every living thing died that was in the sea. 3. The rivers and the springs of water, and they became blood. And I heard the altar saying, "Yes, Lord God the Almighty, true and just are your judgments!" See 5th seal 69-11) 4. The sun was allowed to scorch people with fire. They were scorched by the fierce heat, and they cursed the name of God who had power over these plagues. They did not repent and give him glory. 5. The throne of the beast, and its kingdom was plunged into darkness. People gnawed their tongues in anguish and cursed the God of heaven for their pain and sores. They did not repent of their deeds. 6. The great river Euphrates, and its water was dried up, to prepare the way for the kings from the east. ... three unclean spirits like frogs ... demonic spirits, to assemble them for battle on the great day of God the Almighty ... at Armageddon. 7. A loud voice came out of the temple, from the throne, saying, "It is done!" And there were flashes of lightning, rumblings, peals of thunder, and a great earthquake such as there had never been since man was on the earth. ... The great city was split into three parts, and the cities of the nations fell, and God remembered Babylon the great, to make her drain the cup of the wine of the fury of his wrath. ... And great hailstones, about one hundred pounds each, fell from heaven on people; and they cursed God for the plague of the hail, because the plague was so severe. There just remained the detail about the judgement of the great prostitute and 'mystery Babylon' in the next 2 chapters. |
| Rev 171-18 The Great Prostitute and Mystery Babylon |
Who are they? Or what do they represent? One of the seven angels ... said to me, "Come, I will show you the judgment of the great prostitute ..." So she must be, or represent, a real person(s). You can't judge an idea. She is seated on many waters. She thus affects many, or even all, nations. Kings of the earth have committed sexual immorality with her and also the dwellers on earth. Leaders and people alike have enjoyed a relationship with her. John sees a woman sitting on a scarlet beast that was full of blasphemous names. She and the beast were demonic. They hated, despised and ridiculed the Lord Almighty. The woman was arrayed in purple and scarlet, and adorned with gold and jewels and pearls ... but she had a cup full of abominations. When people desire riches, power and illicit sex, it reveals a heart controlled by Satan. As Jesus said, "Where your treasure is, there will your heart be also." The woman's name was not a mystery, it was written on her forehead, "Babylon the great, mother of prostitutes and of earth's abominations." The only mystery was that she could not see it! She could not acknowledge the sinfulness of her ambition. As always, her deeds reveal her nature. I saw the woman, drunk with the blood of the saints, the blood of the martyrs of Jesus. She so hated God and all who lived to honour him, that she delighted to murder them! The seven heads of the beast on which she rides is explained: The seven heads are seven mountains on which the woman is seated; they are also seven kings, five of whom have fallen, one is, the other has not yet come, and when he does come he must remain only a little while. Detailing the seven world empires may be interesting but may not be accurate. What is important is that the last one, under the leadership of the beast will be only 'for a little while'. See also Dan 2
The 10 horns are also explained: They are ten kings who have not yet received royal power, but they are to receive authority as kings for one hour, together with the beast. Again, naming them is probably inaccurate; but what they do is vital to know. And the woman that you saw is the great city that has dominion over the kings of the earth. But only for a short while, as the next chapter reveals.
It is highly significant that outside the headquarters of the Council of the EU in Brussels is a statue of the woman riding the Beast. And there is another one in front of the European Parliament in Strasbourg. |
| Rev 181-24 Babylon Falls |
After this I saw another angel coming down from heaven, having great authority, And he called out with a mighty voice, "Fallen, fallen is Babylon the great! She has become a dwelling place for demons." All nations, the kings and merchants of the earth have grown rich from the power of her luxurious living. ... In her heart she says, 'I sit as a queen, I am no widow, and mourning I shall never see.' For this reason ... in a single day, death and mourning and famine, and she will be burned up with fire; for mighty is the Lord God who has judged her. The kings and merchants will weep since no one buys their cargo anymore. All your delicacies and splendours are lost, never to be found again.
But for the saints it was a very different story: |
| Rev 191-10 The sound of rejoicing |
John must have been thrilled. He heard a great multitude in heaven rejoicing: "Hallelujah! Salvation and glory and power belong to our God, for his judgments are true and just ..." Then I heard what seemed to be the voice of a great multitude: "Hallelujah! For the Lord our God the Almighty reigns. Let us rejoice and exult and give him the glory, for the marriage of the Lamb has come." And the angel said to me, "Write this: Blessed are those who are invited to the marriage supper of the Lamb." And he said to me, "These are the true words of God." ... For the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy. |
| Rev 1911-21 The final battle is won |
Then I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse! The one sitting on it is called Faithful and True ... The Word of God ... King of kings and Lord of lords. And I saw the beast and the kings of the earth with their armies gathered to make war against him who was sitting on the horse and against his army. And the beast was captured, and with it the false prophet ... These two were thrown alive into the lake of fire ... And the rest were slain by the sword that came from the mouth of him who was sitting on the horse. It doesn't sound like it was much of a battle! In the history of this earth there is no day like this one. Although it is not quite the end of the story. |
| Rev 201-6 The Millennium reign of Christ |
Angels are busy throughout this book. Then I saw an angel coming down from heaven, holding in his hand the key to the bottomless pit and a great chain. And he seized the dragon, that ancient serpent, who is the devil and Satan, and bound him for a thousand years, and threw him into the pit, and shut it and sealed it over him, so that he might not deceive the nations any longer, until the thousand years were ended. A big, but unanswerable question is why for only 1,000 years? To seize Satan, this angel was indeed mighty! We are told very little about these blissful years. All the martyrs and those who refused to be marked by the beast, came to life and they reigned with Christ. The rest of the dead had to wait until the end of the millennium. After 1,000 years Satan is released and had little difficulty deceiving many. The people of Gog/Magog surround the camp of the saints in Jerusalem. but fire came down from heaven and consumed them, and the devil who had eceived them was thrown into the lake of fire and sulphur where the beast and the false prophet were. This reveals that this Gog/Magog battle is 1,000 years after the return of Christ. Again, it does not seem like much of a battle! Almighty God really is All Mighty. |
| Rev 2011-15 The Final judgement |
It seems that this is the time when all men come before the throne of God. Books were opened. Men were judged by what was written in the books. This judgement determines our reward, not our salvation. Another book was opened, which is the book of life. ... If anyone's name was not found ritten in the book of life, he was thrown into the lake of fire. The book of life, the scroll that no one but the Lamb of God could open, is now completely unsealed and open. All the names are revealed. That is what this book is all about - life and death. |
Rev 21 and 22 reveal the new heaven and the new earth.
Could it be that we have made such a mess and abused this earth so badly that it needs more than a repair job?
Or maybe eternal life with Almighty God requires a completely different physical environment.
Rev 21,22 give us a brief glimpse of what eternal life will be like. But so much is beyond our imagination.
What there IS in the Kingdom of Heaven
| New | 211, 5 | Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth. Nothing will ever happen again to cause God or men to grieve. The Kingdom will remain new; it will never tarnish or become stale or corrupt. |
| Holy | 212, 10, 27 | I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven
from God ... All men will not only desire to be holy; but we will be holy. What a joy this will be to God, and to the redeemed. |
| Bride | 212, 9 | ... prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband.
Our permanent relationship with God will be closer and better than even the best marriage here on this earth. |
| Sons with God | 213, 7 | Now the dwelling of God is with men, and he will live with them
... And I will be his God and he will be my son. What greater privilege can man seek than to live with Almighty God, and to be his children. |
| Glory | 2111 | The Holy City, Jerusalem, shone with the glory of God. The Creator of the world and the Saviour of men will receive his rightful glory. Man will never build for his own selfish glory again. |
| Pure, Honest | 2121 | The great street of the city was of pure gold, like transparent
glass. Valuable, untarnished, clear and honest through and through. Like Nathaniel, no guile, no pretence. |
| King | 223 | The throne of God and of the Lamb will be in the city and his servants
will serve him. They will see his face, and his name will be on their foreheads. "The King of the Jews" will truly be king over all the earth. He will not be a remote, never to be spoken to, or touched, King! Much more and much better than an occasional walkabout. His rule will be just and wise. No-one will ever criticise any of his decisions or laws. |
| Redeemed | 2214 | 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. Only the blood of Christ can remove the stain of my sin. My Redeemer has done what is impossible for me to do. He has forgiven all my sin, and has washed me thoroughly clean. |
| Invited | 2217 | The Spirit and the bride say, "Come!" And let him who hears say, "Come!" Whoever is thirsty, let him come; and whoever wishes, let him take the free gift of the water of life. The case for my being allowed to enter is only successful because Jesus is the Advocate who pleads on my behalf. And he says, "Come!" His giving and invitation is so generous and undeserved. Is 551-3 431 |
| Word | 226 | The angel said to me, "These words are trustworthy and true."
God is consistently true and faithful to his Word. His Word will never fade or pass away. Is 408 |
What there ISN'T in the Kingdom of Heaven
| No Sea No Sin No Confusion |
211 | Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth ... there was no longer any
sea Harmony and peace will replace confusion, sin and war. Is 5720 Note - The Beast arose out of the sea; he cannot do so again. Rev 131 No longer need ceremonial cleansing in the temple. 1 Kg 723 The River of Life flows into 'the sea'; the Dead Sea, that now lives. Ezek 478-11 |
| No Loneliness | 213 | Now the dwelling of God is with men, and he will live with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. With God always so evident and his people in permanent harmony, we shall never feel alone. |
| No Tears No Death No Pain |
214 | He will wipe away every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order has passed away. Our hearts will no longer have any cause to ache. Gone for ever will be all sorrow, grief, despair and suffering. |
| No Thirst | 216 | To the thirsty I will give to drink without cost from the spring
of the water of life. No longings will be left unfulfilled. There will be no needs to plead for, for others or for ourselves. |
| No liars No Impure No Unbelievers No Pretence |
218, 27 2215 |
But to the cowardly, the unbelieving, the vile, the murders, the
sexually immoral, those who practice magic arts, the idolaters and all liars - their place will be in the fiery lake of burning sulphur. Nothing impure ... or deceitful, no lies, spin or pretence, no 'economy of the truth'. The struggle is over; even our thoughts will always be righteous. Nothing will cause any man anguish, injustice, grief or pain. No greed, no self-indulgence, no deceit, no idolatry. Believers will live with confidence, without fear or presumption. |
| No Anti-Semitism |
2112-14 | Twelve gates ... 12 foundations, and on them were the names of the
12 apostles of the Lamb. The Jews will not be persecuted, but honoured. Also Eph 220 |
| No Poverty No Thieves No money |
2118-21 2126 |
The city was made of pure gold, as pure as glass. The foundations of the city walls were decorated with every kind of precious stone. No more poverty or grinding injustice will never be seen again. No cruel taskmasters or weary slaves without hope. All men will gladly share all things. No one will lack anything. No debts and no mortgages. |
| No Sacrifices | 2122 | I did not see a temple in the city, because the Lord God Almighty
and the Lamb are its temple. Man will no longer try to win God's approval or blessing. Jesus has made the one perfect and sufficient offering necessary for our salvation. |
| No Night
No Darkness |
2123, 25 | The city does not need the sun or the moon to shine on it,
for the Lamb is its lamp. ... There will be no night there. No more fear or doubt. No more stumbling or wrong decisions. Men will love light instead of darkness. No secrets or intrigue in heaven. |
| No War No Enemies |
2125 | On no day will its gates ever be shut. The aggression of men will be ended, so will the lust for power. There will be no hatred and no one will despise another; nor covet what he possesses. |
| No Hunger | 222 | On each side of the river stood the tree of life, bearing 12 crops of fruit, yielding its fruit every month. A variety of food will be provided for all. No one will ever starve. (No obesity either) |
| No Sickness | 222 | And the leaves of the tree are for the healing of the nations.
No debilitating disease or pain. No one will grow old and frail or even tired. No ethnic distrust or animosity or religious differences; only real forgiveness and co-operation. |
| No Sin No Temptation |
223 | No longer will there be any curse. The curse on man for his wilful, determined sin will be lifted. Man will not have even the slightest inclination to disobey God. |
| No End | 225b | The Lord God will reign for ever. This new Kingdom of God is eternal and uninterrupted. |
"Blessed is the one who reads the words of this prophecy ...
and takes to heart what is written." 13
"Anyone who adds anything ... or takes words away from this book of prophecy,
God will take away from him his share in the tree of life ..." 2218-19