Through the Bible

Day 90 - Revelation 20-22

2009-12-06T22:02:00.000-08:00

Today, we come to the final 3 chapters of the New Testament. In many ways this really is the climax to the entire Bible! These are some of my favorite chapters. I always enjoy reading them.

Chapter 20 describes the Millennial reign of Jesus Christ. What a glorious time that will be! This will be the only time in the history of the world where Satan will be bound and Christ will reign as the physical Sovereign of the world. Those of us who know Him as Savior will have the privilege of reigning under His ultimate rule. After this 1000-year reign, Satan will be released to lead one final rebellion against God, and this time his defeat will be full and final (vs9-10). After this comes what is really a chilling statement. All of the wicked dead will be raised and will face God as their ultimate Judge. He will judge them according to their works and will condemn them to eternal damnation in the lake of fire. The thing about this that is so ironic is that so many people today are trying to work their way to heaven, and it is those very works by which they will be condemned!

Chapter 21 gives us the description of the New Jerusalem, the heavenly city. This is where the redeemed will spend eternity engaged in the worship of God. It truly will be a glorious place. Gems and precious metals will abound. One interesting thing to note in this description is the absence of many things: sea (vs1) - this was a terrifying place for those in the first century, for many people lost their lives on the sea during sever storms; tears, death and pain (vs4) - certainly none of us will miss these; sinners (vs8); temple (vs22) - there is no need of this because God's presence will be manifest all around; sun and moon (vs23) - God is the light!; night (vs25) - how can there be darkness in the presence of God?!; uncleanness (vs26) - God is a God of purity!

Chapter 22 continues the description of the heavenly city by detailing the presence of the river of life and the tree of life. Then, the best part comes! Verse 4 contains the reason that heaven will be heaven. This is the reason that I long for heaven. All of the streets of gold and the gates of pearl and the foundations of precious stones will be wonderful, but they will all pale in comparison to the experience of seeing the face of God for the first time! This is why heaven is precious--we will see His face!

The book closes with a promise that Jesus is coming soon. Some might question whether that is true or not due the fact that it's been nearly 2,000 years since the writing of this book. It is times like this that we must remember that to God a day is as 1,000 years and 1,000 years is as a day (2Peter 3:8). So, in a sense, to God it hasn't even been two days since this has been written! This book also closes with an invitation to come. I add my invitation as well. Dear reader, if you have yet to turn from your sin and trust wholly in Jesus Christ and what He did for you on the cross of Calvary, then come today to Jesus Christ! In Him you will find the satisfaction that your soul desires. Come to Jesus Christ!

Day 89 - Revelation 18-19

2009-12-05T22:50:00.000-08:00

The recording of the future ultimate triumph of Jesus Christ continues in these chapters. In chapter 18, Babylon has been defeated. As with the beast and the prostitute in the previous chapter, the identification of "Babylon" is up for debate. The truly important point to understand here is that Babylon has been overthrown and this destruction was in direct relation to its sinfulness (vs3-5). This serves as a good reminder that sin will ultimately lead to destruction, whether on a national or personal level. Let us heed the warning given to us in vs4 - "Come out of her, my people, lest you take part in her sins, lest you share in her plagues."

Chapter 19 gives us another glimpse into the heavenly scene, and once again we see exuberant worship directed toward God. As I write this blog post, it is Saturday night. Tomorrow, I will engage in a foretaste of this heavenly worship as I gather together with other believers to worship God. Every Sunday that we gather to worship we are preparing ourselves for the activity with which we will occupy ourselves for all of eternity. The worship on this side of heaven can be wonderful, but oh for the day that we experience the worship in Heaven!

Day 88 - Revelation 16-17

2009-12-04T21:46:00.000-08:00

The scene now shifts back to the pouring out of the wrath of God in judgment upon the earth. This judgment is extremely harsh, yet it is just (16:5-7). The purpose of this judgment is not to rehabilitate the wrongdoers nor is it to educate them (as is the case with some forms of human punishment), but rather it is retributive in nature. The key phrase that leads to this conclusion comes at the end of 16:9,11 - they did not repent. For believers, it is the goodness of God that leads us to repentance (cf. Rom. 2:4), but here for unbelievers, even the harshness of God does not lead to repentance. How hard the unregenerate human heart must be! It is for this very reason that we understand that the regenerating work in the heart of any man must be wholly the work of God. It is a miracle!

Chapter 17 begins the discussion of the great prostitute and the beast. Many people throughout the history of the church have tried to identify what these symbols represent. I will not attempt to do so. I'm not sure that anyone can correctly identify them with certainty. There is one thing, however, that is certain. Even though both the prostitute and beast are powerful, they are no match for the Lamb (vs14). He conquers them! What an image that presents! We tend to think of lambs as weak and dumb, but not this Lamb. The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world is a keen and mighty warrior who vanquishes all of His foes! Try as you might to get to all of the specifics about who the kings are in this chapter and who the prostitute is, the main point is that no matter who these people are, Jesus Christ will conquer them! This really is the theme of the book of Revelation - Jesus Wins!

Day 87 - Revelation 14-15

2009-12-03T22:54:00.000-08:00

The scene now shifts to focus on Jesus Christ. He is referred to at first as "the Lamb" (14:1). This obviously is a reference to Jesus Christ as our substitute referring back to His sacrificing Himself in our place on the cross of Calvary. But here, He is no longer suffering. He is the focus of holy worship from holy witnesses. Next, He is referred to as the "Son of Man" (14:14). Here He is a farmer. He has a sickle in His hand and He is ready to reap. His harvest seems to be His own righteous people, although it is not specifically stated. The contrast with the reaping of the angel leads me to think that this is the case. In other words, since what the angel reaps gets thrown into the winepress of the wrath of God (14:19), it only stands to reason that what the Son of Man reaps are those who are not destined for wrath (cf. 1Thess. 5:9). How reassuring this is! Since we are His people, He will take us out of this world before the full wrath of God is poured out!

Day 86 - Revelation 12-13

2009-12-02T22:30:00.000-08:00

These two chapters continue to describe the bleak time in the future known as the tribulation. The identification of some aspects of these chapters can be a bit difficult. Once again, the purpose of the book of Revelation is not to give us all the information about what is coming in the future in crystal clear detail. That is why some things are omitted and others are recorded in highly figurative language. This is a call to us to trust the Lord for the ultimate outworking of these things in history.

One thing that is clear in chapter 12 is the identity of the dragon. It is the devil (vs9). There is pertinent information here for us even for the present day. That information is in how the devil can be conquered. 12:11 tells us that the means to conquering the devil is the blood of the Lamb and the Word of God. The cross is where the blood of Jesus was shed. It was that act of substitutionary atonement that bruised His heel, while at the same time crushing the head of the serpent (cf. Gen. 3:15). It is the Word of God that we are told to use as our weapon against the spiritual forces with which we are engaged in battle (cf. Eph. 6:17). He is making war against us now (cf. 1Pet. 5:8), and he will continue to do so during the tribulation period (12:17). Let trust in these two things to conquer our foe!

Day 85 - Revelation 10-11

2009-12-01T23:23:00.000-08:00

What is the purpose of the book of Revelation? There are numerous, but I can say with certainty that the main purpose is NOT to let us know everything that will happen at the end of this age. Chapter 10 clearly states that the Apostle John was forbidden to record the happenings related to the seven thunders (vs3-4). So, John saw things that were to come in the future, and yet he was not permitted to write them down. This incident should help us to keep ourselves from the temptation to try to figure out everything that will happen in the end. It's impossible for us! We don't have all of the information! Another thing that this does for us is increase our need for faith in the sovereign, wise hand of God. Although we do not know everything that will happen, He does! We must trust Him to take care of that just as He is taking care of the present.

Day 84 - Revelation 8-9

2009-12-01T00:00:00.001-08:00

The bleak situation described in this part of the book of Revelation continues. There is much destruction, despair, pain, etc. However, the interesting thing to notice not only here, but throughout the book is that these horrific events that are happening on the earth are recorded in between visions of heaven. Also, the listing of these happenings are in conjunction with the acts of the angels of God. The significance of this is that everything that is happening on the earth is under the supervision and control of God. Therefore, those of us who know Him have nothing to fear! Nothing can get to us except for what God allows! This should serve us as a call to trust in our sovereign God.

Day 83 - Revelation 6-7

2009-11-29T23:51:00.000-08:00

Revelation 6 is a dark chapter. It describes the period of time known as the Tribulation. It is a time that is characterized by a lack of peace (vs4), great famine (vs6) and death (vs8). In the midst of this description, verses 9-11 describe something incredible. The souls of those who have been martyred call out to God for justice. After giving them a white robe (I believe this stands for the imputed righteousness of Jesus Christ), they are told to rest until the rest of their fellow believers who were to be killed would be killed! What an amazing thought! God here waits. He withholds His execution of justice in the earth until all of the martyrs have been martyred! In other words, God could stop the martyrdom of His people at any moment (He is the Sovereign Lord - vs10), yet He allows it to happen. Why? I don't know all of the particulars, but I do know that when people give their lives for someone, it magnifies that person. So, when people give their lives for God it brings Him glory. It is when considering statements like these that we must rest in the sovereign wisdom of our good God.

The next chapter has quite a different tone. Here the 144,000 witnesses of the nation of Israel are sealed and with them a great multitude of Gentiles enter into exuberant praise to God for His salvation. This group as well is clothed with the white robes of the imputed righteousness of Jesus Christ. This gives them the right and the confidence to stand before the throne of God with boldness.

Day 82 - Revelation 4-5

2009-11-28T23:19:00.000-08:00

These two chapters are probably my favorites in the entire book of Revelation. They contain a glimpse of what we will be doing forever in heaven--worshiping our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ for who He is and what He did for us on the cross. One preacher had said that true worship is the worship of the Redeemer by the redeemed about the redemption! This is exactly what we see in these two chapters. It is truly a grand display of the ultimate worthiness, holiness, majesty and glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ! O that we might see Him in this way even now on this side of heaven, and may we worship Him for who He is and for what He has done for He alone is worthy of our worship!

Day 81 - Revelation 1-3

2009-11-27T22:39:00.000-08:00

Well, today we begin the "home stretch." Not only is this the last book in the NT, but it is also the final 10 days of our reading schedule. Here we go!

The book of Revelation begins with John seeing a vision of Jesus Christ. As is typical throughout the entire Bible, when confronted with the unveiled glory of God, the beholder (John) falls prostrate before Jesus Christ (1:17). Truly, this was an amazing sight--one that all true believers will have the privilege of enjoying one day! In considering this reaction to the glory of God, it makes me wonder about those whose "worship" of Jesus seems more like a "jam-fest" party than stunned awe and silence. It also makes me think, "When was the last time I felt the awesome, weighty presence of Christ in my own worship?"

Chapters 2 and 3 contain the letters to the 7 churches. Each letter follows this general pattern: A description of Deity, a list of the good works that each church had done (if any), a list of the problems of each church (if any), and a closing exhortation or two. These letters should prove helpful to each of us as we consider our own hearts. We are certainly more prone to look for the "good works" that we are doing; however, we must also search our hearts to see where we are coming up short, and then seek to remedy the problem by submitting to the appropriate exhortation(s). It is interesting how often repentance is encouraged. These letters were written to churches, not unbelieving people! This demonstrates that the Christian life is not an experience characterized by sinless perfection, but by continual repentance. I remember hearing the statement many years ago, "It's not once saved always saved. It's once regenerated, always repenting!" We must attempt to live out our Christian experience in an atmosphere of repentance! One other thing to point out with regard to the fact that these letters are written to believers is that 3:20 is so often used as an invitation to the unbeliever to "open the door of their heart and let Jesus come in." While that is certainly something that is inline with other biblical texts (cf. John 1:12), this verse was written to Christians who have shut Jesus out of their lives, and it calls on Christians to open up that door to experience the fullness of fellowship with Jesus Christ that is available to them!

Some years ago I created a table/spreadsheet that has been helpful to me in seeing an overview of this information. You can download a copy for yourself here if you'd like.

Day 80 - 2John, 3John & Jude

2009-11-26T23:30:00.000-08:00

2John in many ways continues some of the same themes as 1John. John is concerned for truth (vs2), love for other Christians (vs5) and obedience to the commands of God (vs6). Again, he warns against false teachers who would lead these believers astray (vs7-8). Some would say that John sounds very unloving when he encourages such harsh treatment (vs10), but actually this is the most loving thing that he can do. It would show a complete lack of love to withhold a warning that would protect these believers from the harm of false teachers.

In 3John, John heaps praise on this group of believers for their faithfulness to the truth of God (vs1-8), and then launches into a scathing rebuke of one of their number who was living his life in accordance with the truth of God. Diotrephes was a proud, slanderer who was not exhibiting true love of the brethren (vs9-10). This type of cancerous activity warranted John’s exposing it for what it was and also warning the true believers against this type of activity. Instead John tells them that they should be pursuing that which is good to the glory of God (vs11).

The epistle of Jude is a clarion call to contend for the truth of God's Word (vs3). His definition of that which is to be identified and rejected is anything that would either twist the truth of God into error or deny the Lord Jesus Christ (vs4). Of course it does take discernment to do this, but it must be done nonetheless. Before closing the epistle, Jude gives some direction for believers to keep themselves from falling to these perversions of the truth. This instruction consists of strengthening ourselves in the truth of God (vs20), praying in the Spirit (vs20), keeping ourselves in the love of God (vs21), waiting on Jesus Christ (vs21), and compassionate ministry toward others (vs22-23). Jude then closes with one of the most famous benedictions in the Bible (vs24-25). It is a glorious prayer for us to pray for ourselves and our fellow believers.

Day 79 - 1John 1-5

2009-11-26T00:52:00.000-08:00

The theme verse of 1John is found in 5:13 – “I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God that you may know that you have eternal life.” What has preceded this verse are several “tests” by which a person may judge whether or not he truly is a Christian. Basically, there are three major tests. The first is that a true Christian does not persist in sin. Verses like 3:9 can make it seem like you must attain to sinless perfection in order to secure you salvation. However, this is certainly not what John is intending to communicate or else he wouldn’t have included verses like 1:8-2:2. John’s point is that a true believer does not make it a consistent practice to pursue sin in his life. If a person does, then it is evidence that there is no spiritual life in him. He hasn’t been born of God (3:9). The converse of this is also stated frequently in the book, namely, that a true Christian pursues righteousness. In other words, he seeks to obey the commands of God (2:3).

The second test is love for other Christians. This too is presented by both positive and negative statements. For example, we are told that if we love God then we will love our Christian brother or sister as well (4:21). On the other hand, if we hate our Christian brother, then we are giving evidence that we are not true Christians (2:9). True love for other Christians will characterize our lives if we are genuine people of God.

The third test has to do with the identification of Jesus Christ as the Son of God (5:1). It makes all kinds of sense that you would not be considered a true Christian if you don’t believe in Jesus CHRIST! Related to this is also the presence of the Holy Spirit of God within a person. It is only by having the Spirit of God in you that you can truly believe in the person of Jesus Christ (4:2)!

The consideration of this epistle will do one of two things to the reader. It will either confirm to him that he truly is a Christian or it will reveal his true lack of faith. Which did it do for you as you read it today? If it was the first, then praise the Lord for the confirmation of your genuine spiritual life! If it was the second, then I beg you—turn from your sin and come to Jesus Christ by faith and become a true believing Christian today!

Day 78 - 1 & 2 Peter

2009-11-24T22:39:00.000-08:00

The theme of 1Peter is summed up very nicely in 4:19 - "Therefore let those who suffer according to God's will entrust their souls to a faithful Creator while doing good."

Suffering is a key idea throughout this letter. Apparently, the ones to whom Peter wrote this letter were undergoing suffering in trials and persecutions. "Suffering" is referenced 16 times in this short book. Peter calls us to endure this suffering partly by following Christ's example (2:21). He makes it very clear that this suffering does indeed have a helpful effect in our lives (1:7), but only if the suffering is a result of doing what is good (2:20). The key element in enduring unjust suffering is faith, an element that Peter references 4 times in the opening chapter! One of the most comforting thoughts in this book is that no matter what kind of suffering we encounter, it comes to us only after having been filtered by "God's will" (4:19). This means that whenever trials and suffering come to us, they had to have God's approval first before coming to us. Therefore, we can have confidence that an all-knowing, all-loving God has given us just enough difficulty to strengthen us and purify us, yet not more than we can handle by His enabling grace. He also adds that when the suffering is over, God Himself will help to patch up the wounds (5:10).

The other main idea is the exhortation to holy living. This is demonstrated by the high number of commands that Peter gives us. He starts off by telling us to be holy because God is holy (1:15). Then he proceeds to call us to holy living in the areas of our relationship to authority, both governmental (2:13-17) and in our work (2:18); in our marriage relationships (3:1-7); with regard to our fleshly desires (4:1-6); and in our serving one another (4:7-11).

He then closes the book with instructions to church leaders (5:1-5) and a warning concerning our enemy, the Devil (5:6-11).

2Peter is a very serious book. It has some very weighty themes. The main ones are the warning against false teachers and the proper understanding of the coming "Day of the Lord." The prescription to prepare to face both of these is growth. Peter starts off right away with a call to growth in faith by supplying 7 qualities - virtue, knowledge, self-control, steadfastness, godliness, brotherly affection and love (1:5-7). The proper appropriation of these results in a strong confidence (1:10). Then, Peter ends the book with a call to grow in grace (3:18). So, growth is necessary to face false teachers and to prepare for the end of this age.

The means of growth is the Word of God. This Word, Peter describes, is a sure foundation for us (1:19). It is also accessible (1:20). The reason for this is that this Word is not from man, but from God Himself (1:21). This is what we must build our lives upon.

Day 77 - James 4-5

2009-11-22T22:32:00.000-08:00

James continues in his practical manner in these last two chapters dealing with the topics of interpersonal difficulties (4:1-2), the struggle against pride (4:3-10), the brevity of life and divine providence (4:13-17), instructions to the rich (5:1-6), patient waiting for the day of the Lord (5:7-12), and prayer (5:13-20).

Along the way, James has made some very significant statements. He tells us that the source of interpersonal strife is internal primarily, not external. Problems arise because we end up holding onto desires in such a way that we expect others to fulfill them and when they don't come through as we wanted to, then we punish them! We must learn to hold our desires loosely (4:1-2).

When James tells us that God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble (4:6), he is not saying that we can ultimately "earn" grace by being humble. That would contradict the very meaning of the word "grace." What he is saying is that God continues to shower opposition in the area of pride and continues to shower grace in the area of humility. As we move from one area to the other, we experience both the opposition and grace of God depending on which area we are in. The humble person therefore does not earn this grace, he simply has put himself in the pathway that God's grace normally flows.

5:12 is a verse that calls us to integrity. We should be living lives and speaking with others in such integrity that we don't need to ensure the believability of our words by "swearing." People should just know that we are people of our word and take our word at face value knowing that they are getting the truth. It is a dangerous position to be in if you find yourself needing to go beyond the simple "yes" or "no" to convince people of your truthfulness.

5:16 has proven to be quite the difficult verse to translate. I will not go into all of the reasons for this. The reality is this--prayer is powerful. It would be good to remind ourselves that the reason for this lies not in the person praying, but in the person to Whom we pray. In other words, prayer is powerful because we are praying to a powerful Person. Let us not neglect this opportunity that we have to be a part of what God is doing in this world!

Day 76 - James 1-3

2009-11-21T21:57:00.000-08:00

James is a very practical book. This is not to say that the other books of the NT are not practical. It's just that James deals with a wide variety of topics in a very simply and straightforward way, and his instruction is concerned primarily with very practical issues. All of us can relate to the topics that he discusses. We all face trials and need to know the positive effect of the trials that God allows in our lives (1:1-8). All of us need to know the nature of sin and temptation in order to know how to fight against it (1:13-15). There isn't a one of us that doesn't need to be reminded of our responsibility as it relates to the proclamation of the truth of God's Word (1:19-27). It is important for each of us to be warned against the dangers of showing partiality to different types of people (2:1-12). We all need to be reminded that it is not enough simply to "say" that we have faith, but that we must demonstrate that we have that true faith in us by the outworking of that faith into our daily lives (2:14-26). None of us is exempt from James' warning concerning the detrimental effects that our tongues can have in the midst of our interpersonal relationships (3:1-12).

As I said before, James is a very practical book. It deserves our reading of it, our meditation on it and even our memorization of it. It is not long. It is not difficult to understand. It would be extremely helpful in advancing your Christian discipleship. Will you take the challenge? Memorize the book of James!

Day 75 - Hebrews 10-13

2009-11-21T00:07:00.000-08:00

Chapter 10 continues the theme of the supremacy of the priesthood of Jesus Christ. Here, His priesthood is superior because His sacrifice of Himself not only did what the other sacrifices could not do (it took our sins away - vs11), but His sacrifice only needed to be offered once and then He sat down in the exalted position at the right hand of God (vs12). It is because of this that the writer of Hebrews then calls us to faith in Jesus Christ as our High Priest (vs22,38,39). It is this call to faith that then launches the writer into the grand "Hall of Faith" in the next chapter.

Chapter 11 is truly one of the most powerful chapters in this book, and some would say even in the entire Bible! There have truly been some amazing displays of faith from Abel down to the present day. When you stop to think about people like Abraham who left his hometown (vs8) and was ready to sacrifice his own son believing that God would raise him up (17-19), what God calls us to do in trusting Him during difficult times seems a bit small, and yet it can be so hard for us. Maybe that is why this chapter is in the Bible! Verse 38 says that the world was not worthy of these people of faith. O that we would be that kind of people, trust God to be and do what He is and what He promises!

The final two chapters of this book contain the "ethical" section. In other words, the writer is telling us how we should act in light of the supremacy of Jesus Christ. We are to endure patiently the chastening that comes (vs6-11). We are to be pursuing lives of holiness in our interpersonal relationships (vs12-17). We are to be careful in our approach to worship God (vs18-29). Then as chapter 13 begins, the writer seems to be throwing out several rapid-fire commands that encompass many different areas of life - brotherly love, hospitality, generosity, marriage, submission to authority, etc. Then he closes the book with a grand benediction (vs20-21). These verses are certainly worthy not only of further contemplation, but of memorization and application.

Day 74 - Hebrews 5-9

2009-11-19T21:29:00.001-08:00

The writer of Hebrews continues his argument for the supremacy of Jesus Christ as High Priest in chapters 5-9. He does so by pointing out that His path to the priesthood was not something He did on His own, but He was appointed High Priest by God the Father (5:5-6). Next, the supremacy of Christ is set forth above the Levitical priesthood by noting the Jesus' priesthood is after the order of Melchizedek. He uses the point that Abraham paid tithes to Melchizedek while Levi was still "in the loins" of Abraham and the lesser pays tithes to the greater, therefore Jesus' priesthood is superior to Levi's. But the final evidence is that Jesus is also the High Priest of the New Covenant (8:6). This is described in glorious detail in chapter 9, the pinnacle coming in vs11, "But when Christ appeared"! So, not only is the priesthood of Jesus superior to the Levitical priesthood, it replaced it!

In the midst of this presentation of the superiority of the priesthood of Jesus Christ, there is another warning. It begins in 5:11 and continues through 6:12. The heart of the warning is in 6:4-6. These verses are some of the most difficult to interpret in the entire NT. I even have a small book in my library that focuses entirely on trying to come to terms with the correct interpretation of this passage. The main crux of the matter is whether or not a believer can ever fully and finally fall away from the faith. That question has been answered very clearly in a number of other passages in the Bible. Therefore, the interpretation of this passage to be one of these two: 1) the person being described is a true believer who will never fall away, and this warning is here to be used as a means to ensure that he never does, OR 2) the person being described is a professing believer who has immersed himself in the externals of the Christian religion, and when someone like that falls away from the externals, he will never come to true repentance. My personal view is that the correct interpretation is the first view. Either way, I have no problem using this passage with either true believer or merely a "professor" of Christianity to either keep the true believer firm or call the merely professing believer to true repentance and faith.

Day 73 - Hebrews 1-4

2009-11-18T22:28:00.000-08:00

Well, it looks like our reading pace will get a little more manageable for the next several days. It was a bit brutal there through the heart of Paul's shorter epistles. Today, we begin the book of Hebrews. This has long been a favorite of mine. My appreciation for this book just seems to grow deeper and deeper. I look forward to blogging through it this time around.

The theme of the book of Hebrews is the supremacy of Jesus Christ. Chapter 1 begins with the exaltation of Jesus Christ above the angels. In presenting his case, the writer of Hebrews (a.k.a. Paul--that's at least my opinion) makes some statements that once again sets Jesus up as God Himself. For instance, vs6 enjoins the worship of Jesus Christ. This book was written to a Jewish audience, and Jews ascribed worship to one God--Yahweh. This then is another of the many proofs throughout the Bible of the Deity of Christ. If that isn't enough, just keep reading. Vs8 records God the Father addressing the Son using the term "God." Now, to be sure, throughout this chapter there also seems to be a distinction being made between Jesus and God (cf. vs2,3,5,9). The only answer that satisfies both of these tensions is the concept of the Trinity--one God who exists is three distinct persons, Father, Son and Holy Spirit. This is the only way that you can have true monotheism (worship of only one God), the distinction between the Father and the Son, and the Deity of the Son.

Chapter 2 begins with a warning. This is the first of 5 warnings throughout this book. Some would like to take these warnings as proof that it is possible for one who is truly saved to lose his or her salvation. I'm not one of those people! I think, rather, that these warnings serve to preserve those who are truly saved and keep them in the faith till the end. So, rather than proving that one can lose his salvation, I see these as a means to preserving a lifestyle that fits salvation.

The rest of chapter 2 contains some very comforting thoughts. These come in vs11,14,17,18. In these verses, Jesus Christ is described as our brother (vs11), our deliverer (vs14) and our sympathetic High Priest (vs17-18). It will do your heart good to meditate on these precious truths.

In chapter 3, Jesus Christ is presented as being superior to Moses. This is quite a big deal when one considers the audience (Jews) and their high view of Moses (exponentially higher than even our American estimation of presidents Washington and Lincoln). Moses was known for not only bringing the nation of Israel out of Egypt and giving them the Law, but also for preparing them for their entrance into the Promised Land. This is why the idea of "rest" is introduced in this chapter and the next. The "rest" for the nation of Israel was the land of Canaan--the Promised Land! The "rest" for the Christian is Heaven. This is where the next warning comes in. The warning is against unbelief. It was a lack of faith that kept some of the nation of Israel from entering their rest (3:19), and it is also that same lack of faith that will keep people out of heaven.

Chapter 4 ends with the beginning of the transition where Jesus Christ is going to be exalted as the superior High Priest. In setting us up for this manifestation, the writer of Hebrews presents Jesus as not only a sympathetic High Priest, but also the perfect High Priest--He was without sin (4:15). Because of this sympathetic, sinless High Priest, we can have confidence to come boldly before the throne of grace. I trust that each of us will not take for granted this wonderful privilege that Jesus Christ has secured for us!

Day 72 - 2 Timothy 1-4, Titus 1-3 & Philemon 1

2009-11-17T22:26:00.000-08:00

Paul's second letter to Timothy was his last (a good reminder that as we read the Bible, the books are not necessarily in chronological order). He writes this letter while in house-arrest in Rome. The last words of someone seem to be a bit more significant, and this book is no exception.

Paul continues to give instruction and encouragement to his fellow-laborer, Timothy. He also continues to warn him. He reminds Timothy of his godly heritage (1:5) and his gifting from God (1:6-7). He calls him to bold ministry for Christ even in the face of suffering (1:8-14). He reminds Timothy of the principle of multiplication in ministry (2:2). He calls him to be a single-hearted soldier, up-standing athlete and hard-working farmer for the kingdom of God (2:3-6). He reminds Timothy that usefulness in the work of God is dependent upon personal holiness (2:14-26). He warns of the coming apostasy and growing wickedness (3:1-9). He points Timothy to the source of confidence and success in the ministry--the Word of God (3:10-17). And finally, Paul closes the letter with a call to faithful ministry that follows his own pattern of faithfulness to the cause of Jesus Christ. O, that one day I would be able to say along with Paul, "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith" (4:7)!

Titus is parallel in many ways to the letters to Timothy, yet there remain some significant differences that warrants the inclusion of this as well in the canon of the Scriptures. After recounting the qualifications for church leadership, Paul adds a section of warning concerning false teachers. As he closes this warning he makes a chilling statement: "They profess to know God, but they deny him by their works" (1:16). How important it truly is that we not merely "say" that we know God, but that our lives bear fruit that demonstrates that we not only know God but also that He knows us!

The short letter of Philemon is truly a thing of beauty! This slave, Onesimus, had run away from his master, Philemon, and had ended up in jail with Paul (vs10). While in Paul's company, Onesimus comes to faith in Jesus Christ. What a testimony, that even while in prison, Paul continues to share Jesus with people. Now, Paul is sending Onesimus back to Philemon. As he does, Paul appeals to Philemon to receive this slave as a brother in Christ (vs16). This is what our union with Christ does--it levels the playing field. We are all brothers and sisters in Christ, not masters and slaves of one another. Paul is confident that Philemon will do this (vs21). Yet, Paul realizes that Onesimus has wronged Philemon and so he is willing to assume any debt that Onesimus had accrued (vs18). What a wonderful picture of self-sacrificial love for the benefit of a fellow-believer!

Day 71 - 1Timothy

2009-11-16T23:01:00.000-08:00

This is the first of what are known as the "Pastoral Epistles" (1&2Timothy and Titus). Timothy was a pastor, as was Titus. While there is a good bit of instruction that is pointed directly to pastors and church leaders in these epistles, there is still plenty there for the layman as well. Even the layman needs to know things like how to point out a false teacher (1:3-11), how and for whom to pray (2:1-2,8), what is required of church leadership (3:1-13), how to take care of the needy in the church (5:3-16), how to provide for and relate to their church leaders (5:17-25) and to beware of the deceitfulness of pursuing earthly wealth (ch6 - various verses).

The Gospel is a key component in this epistle as well. From the outset, Jesus Christ is seen as our "hope" (1:1). The purpose of the coming of Christ into this world was to save sinners (1:15). Jesus is seen as the "go-between" or arbiter in the relationship between a holy God and sinful man (2:5). Paul ends chapter 3 with that glorious hymn of praise for Jesus Christ (3:16). In 4:10, God Himself is given the title "Savior"! The Gospel is central to this book and it also must be central to our lives!

For the pastor, this book serves him well in many ways. It prepares him for protecting the flock from false teachers (1:3-11). It helps him by defining roles for both genders in the church (2:9-15). It lays out very clearly the qualifications that the minister must meet (3:1-7), and the qualifications for the deacons in the church (3:8-13). It gives needful instruction in the areas of the minister's public and private life (4:11-16; 6:11-16). It gives instruction on how to minister to and relate to various groups in the church (5:1-6:2).

This book proves to be a very helpful and needful "handbook" for both pastor and parishioner!

Day 70 - 1 & 2 Thessalonians

2009-11-16T22:37:00.000-08:00

I've gotta stop missing days like this! I've had a head-cold for the last few days and yesterday was the worst. In my misery, I guess I just plum forgot to do my reading and blogging, so...two posts today!

1Thessalonians is another "happy" epistle. The Thessalonian church was in many ways a model church. Look closely again at the first chapter and you will see that Paul had nothing but good things to say to and about this church! Though this church did have many things "going for them," Paul didn't want this church to become complacent. After recounting to them his initial ministry among them and the good report that came from Timothy (ch2-3), Paul opens chapter 4 with an exhortation to keep on pressing on. None of us has arrived in our Christian walk, therefore, none of us should ever be content with where we are spiritually. We should be seeking to "do so more and more" (4:1) as Paul encouraged the Thessalonians.

Here are some other brief comments on various passages in 1Thessalonians: 2:13 - we must receive the revelation of God by means of men as it really is--the Word of God; 3:9-13 - a wonderful prayer that deserves your careful consideration and imitation; 4:3-8 - want to know God's will for your life? Here it is--your sanctification, or in other words, your holiness!; 4:13-18 - encouraging words for those who have lost loved ones who knew Jesus as Lord and Savior; 5:16-22 - these "machine gun" type commands are extremely important for us to understand and obey as we seek to excel still more in our Christian walk; 5:23-24 - Paul's benediction to close this letter is a wonderful prayer to pray for ourselves and others.

2Thessalonians is quite different from the first letter of Paul to the Thessolonicans. It is a forward-looking epistle. The themes of the day of the Lord and the coming "man of sin" dominate the book. With these very serious themes in view, Paul is constantly drawn to prayer in this book. He prays in 1:11-12 and 2:16-17 and then asks for prayer for himself and his co-laborers in 3:1. As we look forward to the end of this age it should drive us to prayer as well.

Day 69 - Philippians 1-4 & Colossians 1-4

2009-11-14T14:39:00.000-08:00

The book of Philippians is in stark contrast to the books of 1 & 2 Corinthians. It is a very “happy” epistle. The words “joy” or “rejoice” occur 16 times in this short letter. The striking significance of that fact is that Paul is writing this epistle as he sits in a Roman prison! Yet, Paul has a lot to rejoice about as he considers the help from the Philippian church by means of Epaphroditus (2:25; 4:18). He also takes some time to reflect on the partnership in the Gospel that he had with the Philippians and how this same Gospel was being advanced (ch1).

Paul does call the Philippians to do a number of things in this epistle. The first major thing (and something that recurs throughout the book) is to have a unity of mind (2:2). The path to this is one characterized by humility and selflessness. The thought of these virtues launches Paul into a grand illustration of selfless humility as demonstrated by the incarnation, life and death of Jesus Christ (2:5-11). The surprising end of this step by step humiliation and servitude as described in vs5-8 is lofty exaltation. This is why it is so often said that the way “up” in the Kingdom of God is “down.” Nowhere is that more clearly seen than in the example of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ!

Paul also calls the Philippians to “work out” their salvation (2:12). This is not what it may seem to be on the surface. Paul is not saying that the way to salvation is one of works, but rather that once a person is saved, the inner change that salvation brings about needs to be “worked out” into the practice of that saved individual. Another surprising twist comes in the next verse (13). This working is something that God does! We are to work out what God is working in us. These verses put the responsibility of man and the sovereignty of God side by side with seemingly no tension. How we need divine illumination to keep ourselves from failing to reconcile these two truths!

To keep this post from getting way too long, let me just point out a few other verses that warrant further contemplation: 1:6 – our confidence in God’s work in our lives; 1:21 – can we truly say this along with Paul?; 1:29 – faith and suffering are gifts from God; 3:9 – Christ’s righteousness is the only “outfit” that is acceptable in the presence of God; 3:10 – Knowing Christ is the ultimate pursuit of the Christian; 3:12-14 – if Paul hadn’t “arrived,” what makes us think we ever will this side of heaven?; 4:6-7 – don’t worry! Pray!; 4:13 – divine enablement makes all things possible—there’s always hope!

The book of Colossians is somewhat of a “sister” epistle to the book of Ephesians. It follows the same basic structure of truth first, then practice. It is unique. There are plenty of differences that not only add to the message of Ephesians, but also that complements it as well.

Chapter 1 contains, in my opinion, the most lofty expression of the exaltation of Jesus Christ every found in the Bible (1:14-19). It is certainly worthy of further consideration. In chapter 2, Paul’s concern is for the Colossian church to be grounded in the truth of the Gospel so as not to be led astray (2:8). As a result, he lays out one of the most beautiful recitations of the Gospel (2:9-15). Chapter 3 calls the believer to have a heavenly mindset that is demonstrated in killing the sinful desires and putting on what is fitting for the regenerated lifestyle. This then affects every relationship (3:18-4:6).

Day 68 - Ephesians 1-6

2009-11-13T21:13:00.000-08:00

OK...this one is going to be difficult. I'm finishing up preaching through the book of Ephesians right now and it has taken me over a year to do so. How in the world do I cram all of that into one blog post?!?!?! How about just a few highlights?!

The theme of the book of Ephesians as I see is this: God's purpose and plan for the Church in the world through Jesus Christ. This is seen through God's calling people to Himself, saving them, creating a unified body out of diverse peoples, and then enabling them to live distinct lives in the midst of a sinful world.

The book of Ephesians divides nicely into two sections: chapters 1-3 - these chapters focus on truth and doctrine; our position in Christ; who we are; lots of "indicatives" (statements of fact); etc. chapters 4-6 - these chapters focus on the practical outflow of the truth and doctrine already laid down; our practice in Christ; what we are to do; lots of "imperatives" (commands); etc. This is actually quite important to understand. The main point being that we must know what is true before we can act in a truthful manner. Our "doing" in the Christian life must flow from our "knowing." If we short-change ourselves in the "truth" department, then we will be weak and inconsistent in the "do" department.

Prayers. There are two incredible prayers in the book of Ephesians (1:15-23; 3:14-19). These are well worth their own blog posts, but I will simply recommend to you that you spend some extra time meditating on them and then modeling your own prayers after these "gems."

The second half of the book (ch4-6 - the "practical" section) is broken up into several sections that can easily be identified by the repetition of the word "walk." The whole last half of the book is a description of the "worthy walk" of the believer, yet how that is brought about is detailed in the separate sections. We are called to walk in unity (4:1-16), in holiness (4:17-32), in love (5:1-6), as children of light (5:7-14) and finally in wisdom (5:15-6:9). The book is then concluded by a call to "stand" in the battle.

One part of this book in particular that I saw in a new light after having gone through it verse by verse is the beginning of chapter 2. Verses 8-9 are so often quoted as proof-texts showing how salvation is not by our works, but by the grace of God. These verses do, in fact, prove that point, and they do it very well. However, they are not the "high point" in Paul's argument. In fact, they are somewhat of a footnote to what Paul is saying. The pinnacle of the first part of chapter 2 actually comes in verse 7. See if you can track this with me from verse 1 until verse 7. Chapter 2 begins with Paul's description of all of lost humanity - dead, unable to save themselves. Verse 4 sounds the nearly deafening "BUT GOD" and then proceeds to shine the light on the great love, mercy and grace of God in saving dead, sinful humans. After laying this out, Paul gives us the purpose for all of it--the glory of God. The purpose of God's saving us miserable creatures was to put on display for the world to see now and in all ages that are to come "the immeasurable riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus." In other words, God saved us in order to demonstrate His glorious grace. Then, and only then, do verses 8-9 describe that it is that grace alone that saves us apart from our works! This set of verses (1-9) is another reminder that salvation is all of God and all about God! Soli Deo Gloria!

Day 67 - Galatians 1-6

2009-11-12T20:16:00.000-08:00

Today begins a rather strenuous section in our reading schedule. I'm not sure who put together this schedule, but they should have thought it through a bit better. Anyway, this is the schedule we are all on, so I will abide by it and do my best! To the reader...tie and knot and hang on! These posts could get really long, but I'll try to keep them a manageable length.

The book of Galatians has the true Gospel at its heart. Paul begins with a passionate plea to stay true to the true Gospel that he had delivered to them (1:6-9). Then, he continues with a discussion detailing how this Gospel was not his idea, nor any man's for that matter, but he received this from God Himself (1:11-24). Paul then moves to defend this divinely delivered Gospel from the distortions and additions of the Judaizers. The main thrust of these false teachers was that the requirement of circumcision be added to repentance from sin and faith in Jesus Christ. What is shocking is that even Peter himself was affected by these Judaizers so much so that Paul had to confront Peter to get him back in line with the true Gospel (2:11). Paul then levels his strongest statement concerning the true Gospel as it relates to the Law (2:16). This verse is one to memorize, if you haven't yet!

In all of this, the big question that remains is this: if the keeping of the Law is not a necessary component of salvation, then what continuing role does the Law have in the life of a believer? First, we must reiterate that the Law does have a part in bringing people to salvation. That part is the conviction that comes when we realize that we cannot keep the Law sufficiently ourselves to warrant salvation. Second, we must realize that there are certain aspects of the Law that do not apply any longer at all--namely the ceremonial law in general as is illustrated by the fact that circumcision is not required for salvation. Third, it is important to remember that the moral law of God is still binding in the life of a believer as is demonstrated in Paul's pointing to the OT command to love your neighbor as yourself (5:13-15). So, although the Law does not bring us salvation and certain aspects of the Law are no longer binding, our adherence to the moral Law of God remains a requirement for people of faith.

How does one insure that he is able to live a life in accordance with the moral Law of God? The answer to this question comes at the end of chapter 5. We must walk by the power of the Spirit. The connection between these two things should be quite clear. If we rightly understand the Spirit to be God Himself, then it makes perfect sense that walking by the Spirit will keep us in line with the Law that comes from the Spirit as well!

There is much more to discuss in this epistle, but I will close my comments here. In closing, let me point out some individual verses in this book that really do deserve some extra contemplation as you have the time: 1:10; 2:20; 3:3, 13; 4:4-7; 5:19-23; 6:1, 7-10, 14.

Day 66 - 2Corinthians 10-13

2009-11-11T12:36:00.000-08:00

In preaching through Ephesians 6 recently, I've been reminded about the spiritual warfare that we fight every day. In chapter 10, Paul addresses this warfare. It is good to remind ourselves not only that we are in a battle, but that the means to victory come from God. If we fight this battle in the power of the flesh, we will most certainly be defeated. Our weapons are not of the flesh, but on the other hand, they have divine power (10:4)! Therefore, victory is not only possible, but it is certain if we fight God's way!

As Paul "boasts" of his credentials as an apostle, it is interesting that he chooses to use his persecution as "proof" (11:23-27). What seems like a detriment to the average onlooker, Paul uses as his badge of authenticity of being an apostle of Jesus Christ. This really is the way that we should view hardships that we endure for the cause of Christ--not as marks of shame, but rather as badges of honor!

Chapter 12 records Paul's description of his "thorn in the flesh." This gives us a number of insights. First, not all requests we make to the Father are answered in the way that we would choose. Second, in the midst of trials that God allows in our lives, He also gives sufficient grace so that we may be able to endure. Third, when we are "weak" and yet overcome, God gets the glory for our accomplishments because it apparent that we are not the reason for the success. My father-in-law recently reminded me that our lives as Christians should be lived in such a way that it requires a supernatural explanation. That is where Paul lived his life.

Before Paul closes this epistle, he gives a command that all of us must give ear to. It comes in 13:5 - "Examine yourselves, to see whether you are in the faith." This is quite a bit different than the all too often encouragement to "look back and remember when you made your profession of faith." The reality is that it doesn't really matter how well you can remember the day and events when you made a profession of faith, what really matters is how you are living your life today. Are you bearing fruit? Do have a passion to know God better? Do you love Jesus Christ more than anything or anyone else? Is an attitude of repentance the aroma of your life? Do you love other believers? These and so many other things are the proofs that there is true spiritual life in you, not simply that you can recite the date and time and sequence of events when you made a profession of faith! Examine yourself to see if you are in the faith!

Day 65 - 2Corinthians 6-9

2009-11-10T20:44:00.000-08:00

To understand fully the last section of chapter six requires a bit of knowledge of the "holiness code" in the OT. God is very passionate about the distinctiveness of His people. This was seen time and time again in the OT as God directed His people to be distinct by means of circumcision, their manner of worship, even to the types of foods they could eat and fabrics out of which they should make their clothes. While those specific directives found in the OT holiness code are not applicable today, God still desires for His chosen people to be distinct from the surrounding world. The foundation for this desire is the fact that we are the temple of God (6:16). Since God dwells in us, and He is a holy God, He desires a holy separation from His people. When we do separate ourselves from the pagan world in our thoughts, attitudes and actions, we have a wonderful promise (7:1) from God--acceptance in God's family (6:17-18)!

What is "godly grief" (7:9)? Godly grief is grieving over your sin and how it has offended a holy God. There is an ungodly grief as well, and that is grieving merely over the natural and logical consequences of sin. In other words, there is grief over sin because of how it affects our relationship with God, and there is grief that simply affects our mood. This first type of grief results in true repentance (turning from sin) that honors God (7:10). The second type of grief results in just feeling bad (depression). It's the difference between being truly sorry that you sinned and being sad that you got caught in your sin.

8:2 contains what seems like an antinomy. On the one hand there is affliction and poverty, and on the other there is joy and generosity. These two sets of ideas are quite opposite, at least in the mind of the typical American! How can both of these sets of ideas coexist in the heart and life of the same individual or group of people? The answer is in vs1--the grace of God! That is the only way that anyone can be joyfully generous in the midst of affliction and poverty. How we need that continuing grace in our lives!

9:8 is truly an amazing verse! Notice how many times "all" and "every" are used! First, God gives us all the grace that we need. It is this enabling grace of God that makes us completely sufficient for what He has called us to do. This sufficiency extends to all things. There is nothing that God will ever call you to do that He hasn't also enabled you to do it. This sufficiency also covers every moment of every day. There is never a time in your life, nor will there ever be, when you will lack the grace of God to enable you to do what He has called you to do. The result of this all-sufficient grace is not just that you will have enough grace to do every good work, but you will have this in superabundance! What a wonderfully grace God we serve!

Day 64 - 2Corinthians 1-5

2009-11-09T20:54:00.000-08:00

What is the purpose of suffering and trouble? There are many, but Paul points out just a few for us in the opening of this second epistle to the Corinthians. First, the reason that we suffer is so that we can receive the comfort that comes from God in order that we might be able to comfort others with the same comfort that we have received from God (1:3-4). Those of you that have been through difficult times yourselves know the overwhelming grace of God that accompanies such trying situations and no doubt you've been able to be used by God to bring comfort and encouragement to others who are enduring similar troubles. I know I've seen that time and time again in my own life. Second, trials and difficulties come in order to reinforce in us our dependence upon God (1:9). Often, when life is going smoothly, we can tend to coast, relying on our own strength, but when troubles come, we are quickly reminded how much we need God and His all-sufficient sustaining grace in our lives. Third, we experience suffering in order to move ourselves and those around us to prayer (1:11). God accomplishes His purposes and plans through the prayers of His people. Suffering and trouble bring us to our knees, and we are ready to call others around us to do the same. Then, when we endure successfully the trial, God is glorified through answered prayer. So, don't waste your suffering! Submit to what God is doing through that trial and glorify Him as He sustains you!

Those who minister the Word of God have an effect on people's lives. The effect is different depending on the type of person who is hearing the ministry of the Word. To those who are "saved" (those who have repented of their sins and trusted in the finished work of Christ alone), the effect is one of "life." To those who are "perishing" (those who have NOT turned from their sins to Christ), the effect is one of "death" (2:14-16). How does the ministry of the Word affect you? If it is a source of "life" to you, then praise the Lord for this confirmation of His salvation in you! If it is a source of "death" to you, then come, turn from your sins and trust in what Jesus Christ did on the cross of Calvary to save you and then this ministry of the Word will be "life" to you as well!

There two verses in chapter three that are favorites of mine. The first is vs5. My awareness of my need for God grows more and more keen nearly every day! This is one of the verses that God has used to heighten that awareness. The only way that I am sufficient to do anything for the cause of Christ is through the sufficiency that comes from God. The other verse is vs18. What is the catalyst of lasting change? It is a fresh and continual revelation of who God is. As we behold Him in His glory, we are changed--transformed! And how much to we need that divine transformation!

Chapter 4 has two more. First - vs7. I am but a jar of clay, yet God has chosen to do a portion of His work through me. The reason? So that He can receive the glory! I love it when God uses frail people such as myself to accomplish His Kingdom work because when that happens, God is glorified because it is apparent that it is not because of me that the work succeeds! Second - vs17. This is another reason for the suffering and difficulty that God brings into our lives--it makes us long for Heaven! This verse also puts suffering in perspective. It is light. No matter how heavy it may feel, in the grand scheme of things it is light. It is momentary. Even if a particular trial lasts for your entire life, it is momentary in the light of eternity. This light momentary affliction is doing a work in us that is beyond our wildest imaginations! To God be the glory that He can take things that seem so bad and difficult and then use them in our lives to make us better!

When I was in seminary, I wrote an entire paper just on vs14-21 of this chapter. I will spare you all of those details, but let me briefly point out some very significant points that Paul makes in this chapter.
Vs14-15 - Why did Jesus die? Obviously, there are many answers to this question, but one that Paul points out here is so that we would not live for ourselves, but for Him! So, when we live for ourselves, we contradict one of the reasons that Jesus died for us.
Vs17 - When we are regenerated, there is a massive change that takes place in us. Old things pass away and new things come. If there has been no change in your life like this, then this is a good time to examine yourself to see if you really are "in the faith."
Vs21 - The sinless Son of God became sin so that we, sinful people, might be made righteous. This is the glory of what is called "double imputation." Our sin was imputed to Jesus Christ, therefore He died. His righteousness was imputed to us, therefore we live. What a precious truth that is!

Day 63 - 1Corinthians 15-16

2009-11-08T21:11:00.000-08:00

The humility of Paul continues to shine in his epistles. He makes the statement in 15:9 that he is the least of all the apostles. This is not mere lip-service, nor is it without grounds for the next verse (one of my favorites in this epistle) gives the reasoning behind this humility. It is the fact that anything that Paul is able to do is a demonstration of the grace of God in his life! Some people talk of grace as if once grace enters then there is nothing for us to do. Nothing could be further from Paul's mind. Notice that immediately after claiming to be the least of the apostles and acknowledging that anything good that comes from himself is because of the grace of God, he makes the assertion that he worked harder than any of the other apostles! Hard work and the grace of God are not mutually exclusive, but rather they are quite complementary, at least in Paul's mind. The key to understanding this is that grace doesn't make work unnecessary, but rather grace enables the work. That's why God deserves the "credit" for any successful work the we do!

Apparently, another one of the "issues" in the church at Corinth was concerning the idea of the future resurrection of believers. Paul's argument in this chapter points out that if there is no resurrection, then the Gospel is null and void because the resurrection of Jesus Christ is part of the Gospel (15:1-4). Further, it is Christ's resurrection that secures ours! Therefore, if there is no resurrection then we have no hope. What a dreadful thought! Paul then continues to describe the wonders of the resurrection that truly does give us hope. He climaxes in 15:50-57. This is the very reason that this passage is so often read at modern day funerals--it gives hope to those who mourn the loss of believing loved ones. Take a moment to reread these verses, and rejoice in the hope of the glory of your future resurrection!

The final verse of chapter 15 is another one of my favorites. It is a wonderful verse to encourage perseverance and faithfulness to our Lord as we seek to labor for His glory. Think of these different adjectives and their significance: steadfast, unmovable, abounding always. Do these characterize your service for Christ? The foundation and the fuel for this type of enduring ministry flows from the Gospel that Paul has been describing and defending in this chapter with the hope of future resurrection as the focal point. Let's labor faithfully for our Lord and Savior as we ground ourselves in the hope that the promise of resurrection brings to us!

Chapter 16 closes this epistle. Much of what Paul communicates is of an administrative nature along with the typical formal greetings that were so common in the written communication of his day. Right before he closes the book, he makes a rather striking statement in vs 22 - "If anyone has no love for the Lord, let him be accursed." He doesn't say "if anyone has no faith in the Lord" or "if anyone refuses to obey the Lord", but " if anyone has no love for the Lord, let him be accursed"! Let this thought sink in! Many say that they believe in Jesus. Many say that they attempt to obey Jesus. These are good things that the Scriptures indeed call us to do many times, yet Paul singles out this one aspect as that which is necessary to avoid eternal damnation. Another thing to consider is that this word for "love" is not the so-called "highest form of love" that we know as agape. Rather, this is the verb phileo. This word for "love" puts the emphasis on affection and is a highly relational word. This, I think, fills out what is lacking in so many people's conception of faith and obedience. Having a high level of affection for Jesus Christ is part of what makes "faith" faith and what makes "obedience" obedience. In other words, if you do not have this type of affection for the Lord Jesus Christ, then you really don't believe in Him nor do you obey Him the way the Bible calls us to. That is the very reason that Paul calls down a curse of eternal damnation on all those who do not love the Lord with their affections!

Day 62 - 1Corinthians 13-14

2009-11-07T09:04:00.000-08:00

The "love chapter" in 1Corinthians is one of the best-known and best-loved chapters in this entire book, and perhaps, to some, the entire Bible. To me this chapter is a mirror into which I can look and see from God's perspective how unloving I really am and how I need to grow in so many areas! The list that describes what true biblical "love" is serves as a powerful reminder of how desperately we need the grace of God to love in His way. If the Law served as our schoolmaster to bring us to Christ, then this chapter serves us as our schoolmaster to bring us to the grace of God. Right off the bat, Paul tells us that love is patient. If there is one area that I struggle in, it is in this very area. I must have the grace of God to help we demonstrate my love for others by my patience with them. The list then continues with many other qualities that are a true demonstration of love. The second greatest commandment, according to Jesus Christ Himself, is to love your neighbor as yourself. This chapter offers a wonderful standard against which we can measure ourselves to see what areas we need more grace from God in order to love in His way.

Chapter 14 contains Paul's instruction regarding the speaking in tongues. My personal belief is that the gift of tongues was a temporary sign-gift that was given by the Spirit to validate the new revelation of the NT. Once the NT was complete, the purpose of the sign-gifts was no longer necessary. I know that there are plenty of people who disagree with me on this point, and I am OK with that. To those who disagree and say that tongues are still for today, I would ask this: "Can you show me anyone today who is exercising the gift of tongues in according to the instruction and limits that Paul gives in this chapter?" Paul's concerns here include intelligibility (vs9), edification (vs12,17,26), limited number (vs27), always interpretation (vs28), only men (vs34) and orderliness (vs40). In my limited exposure to the practice of speaking in tongues, I've never seen anyone engage in this activity in accordance with these principles. In fact, nearly all of these principles are completely disregarded by the modern day tongues movement. If that truly is the case, it makes one wonder if the modern tongues movement is truly from the God who inspired the writing of this chapter.

Day 61 - 1Corinthians 10-12

2009-11-06T13:39:00.000-08:00

Chapter 10 includes two of the most quoted verses in the entire Bible. One to help fight against temptation (vs13) and the other to give the proper perspective on why we should do anything (vs31). But how often do we consider the context in which these verses come to us? I'm guessing not very often. So, let's consider the context.

10:13 - The context of this verse is Paul's warning against idolatry. He uses several incidents from the history of the Jewish nation (contained in the OT) to warn against falling into the same types of traps that they did. This list includes the most blatant form of idolatry--that of worshiping an image in the place of God. But it also includes other forms of idolatry--that of sexual immorality, testing the Lord and grumbling. Exactly how each of these is idolatry is something that I will leave for you to meditate on, just know that the heart of each of these sins is the sin of idolatry. Also, each of these areas is very tempting and that is why verse 13 comes in and encourages us to stand firm in the time of temptation knowing that our temptations are not unique (he has just showed how the children of Israel fell to these same types of temptations). The final phrases are very encouraging. God has provided a way of escape in every temptation that He allows, and we are able to bear each temptation. We never have to sin! Praise the Lord for His faithfulness!

10:31 - This is the "life verse" of many and rightly so, but consider again with me the context. The eating and drinking Paul has in mind is related to those things offered to idols. That was apparently quite the "hot topic" in Paul's day. Some were making it a huge deal while others looked down on those who made it such a big deal. Paul brings the glory of God to bear on this situation. Whether you eat that which is offered to idols or not, make sure you are acting in such a way that God is glorified. This charge is something that we still need to this day. God and His glory should be the ultimate governing factors in our lives!

Chapter 11 contains Paul's instructions regarding head coverings for women and the observance of the Lord's Supper. I know that there are differing opinions concerning the idea of head coverings for women in the church. I do not intend to disparage those who hold to a view different from mine, however, I fell I must comment about this since it is a major part of this chapter. The main point, as I see it, that Paul was trying to make here was for wives to demonstrate submission to their husbands. This seems to be clear from the beginning of the chapter as Paul introduces the idea of "headship" among differing relationships and also from vs10 - "a wife ought to have a symbol of authority on her head." An outward sign of submission in Paul's day was for the wife to wear a head covering. Over time and distance, this external sign of submission has lost its significance, therefore, it seems unnecessary to me to continue to require and external sign of submission that no longer communicates such submission. Ladies, the Bible clearly calls the wife to submit to her husband, therefore if you husband asks you to wear a head covering, then it truly will be a sign of your submission to him (and there are many other ways that you need to demonstrate such submission as well!). If he does not require it of you, this does not mean that you do not have to submit to him, but rather it means that you must search for other ways to demonstrate your submission to him.

I think the most important part of Paul's instruction concerning the Lord's Supper for us today comes in vs28. The observance of the Lord's Supper is certainly a special time, but we must also take care to engage in thorough self-examination before partaking. In light of what our Savior did for us on the cross to pay the penalty for our sin, self-examination that leads to confession and repentance from sin is the proper response!

Chapter 12 is a wonderful chapter dealing with spiritual gifts. Here are some highlights. These gifts are spiritual--they are gifts from the Spirit of God Himself (vs4-5). Every Christian has a spiritual gift or gifts (vs6-7). There is a diversity in the distribution of the spiritual gifts (vs8-10). God is wise in how He distributes these gifts to His children (vs11). All gifts are necessary and significant (vs14-22). Let's praise God for His gifts to His children and seek to use them for the building up of the body of Christ--that's why we have them!

Day 60 - 1Corinthians 7-9

2009-11-05T14:30:00.000-08:00

Chapter 7 is a virtual encyclopedia on marriage. So many questions are answered in these verses. We find out the God-ordained place and purpose for sexual relations. We find instruction related to divorce and remarriage whether the spouse is a believer or an unbeliever. However, in the midst of all of this, Paul is making a point. His main point here is that if you can live your life without needing to enter into marriage, then you will be more useful for the Kingdom of God. He also points out that this ability to remain single and satisfied is truly a gift (vs7). This is a gift that I do not have! It is true, though, that those who remain single have the opportunity to pour more of their time and energy into service for God. In light of all this, however, Paul continues to point out that marriage is not something to be avoided (vs2,9,28,36,38,39).

Paul makes another interesting point in the middle of this chapter (vs17-24). His point here is to remain in the same state you were in when you came to know Christ as your Savior. I think what we can gain from this is that God calls to Himself different types of people in different types of situations in order that His Kingdom work can be carried out by diverse people in diverse ways to bring about even more glory to God. Another way that you could say it this, "Bloom where you're planted." Bear fruit in the situation that God has called you in and seek His glory, not your own advancement!

Chapter 8 introduces the concept of the "weaker brother." This "weak" brother is one who does not have all of the knowledge necessary to inform his conscience properly. Paul's exhortation here is not to the weaker brother to be strengthened, but rather to the knowledgeable brothers to be considerate of the weak. One of his main reasons for this consideration is that Jesus Christ died for these "weak" brothers, therefore to sin against one of them is to sin against Christ (vs11-12). This certainly "ups the ante" as we try to live in consideration of one another. In the midst of his explanation, Paul makes some very significant statements in vs6--namely, we exist for God and we exist as Christians through Jesus Christ. These two statements do a wonderful job in orienting ourselves to our place in the world and the Church. We exist, not for ourselves, but for God. Life is about Him, not about us! Further, we came into being as Christians, not through our own power or initiative, but rather through the power and initiative of Jesus Christ. These two concepts are truly foundational to the successful living of the Christian life!

In chapter 9, Paul details his rights as a minister of the gospel. Again, here there are many statements made by Paul that are instructive to the people of God as to how they should provide for their ministers. But, Paul does not include this to press upon the Corinthians in order to exercise his rights, but rather for them to understand what he is not exercising, though he does have the right to do so. In other words, Paul is surrendering his rights so that he might have a fruitful ministry among these people. How counter-cultural this thought is today in our culture of "i-must-have-my-rights"! It is in this context that Paul states that he becomes "all things to all people, that by all means I might save some" (vs22). What is ironic about this is that so many people use this verse to expand their rights in their attempt to reach out to people. They would say that they have a right to do things that others might have a problem with because they are doing it in the name of reaching diverse groups of people. This is in fact the direct opposite of what Paul was saying in this passage. Paul's becoming "all things to all men" manifested itself in Paul's restraining himself from things that he had a right to do. Isn't it amazing what happens when one considers the context of certain "proof-texts"?

Paul closes this chapter with a well-known passage on persistent, self-controlled striving in the the ministry (vs24-27). What a wonderful example Paul is to those of us who would serve the church faithfully!

Day 59 - 1Corinthians 4-6

2009-11-04T16:21:00.000-08:00

As Paul wraps his argument against the divisions in the Corinthian church due to differing alliances (e.g. some of Paul, some of Apollos, etc.), he again demonstrates his humility as he refers to himself and Apollos as mere servants and stewards whose greatest contribution to their ministry is faithfulness (4:1-2). On the heels of that Paul warns the Corinthians concerning their pride. In doing this he lays out a great argument against pride in vs7. It gives us the perspective that if we have anything (e.g. abilities, knowledge, etc.) it is a result of the gracious giving of God. So, if we are merely beneficiaries of the kindness and generosity of another, what room is left for boasting? This is certainly the God-centered outlook on life that we need to keep us from falling into the same pitfall as these Corinthians.

Chapter 5 details Paul's correction of the Corinthian church's acceptance of an openly immoral person in the church. Paul's concern for the whole well-being of the church moves him to call for the excommunication of this individual. It certainly seems to be a harsh penalty, but Paul knows how destructive sin is in the church (leaven and its permeating effects are a picture of the destructive nature of sin - 5:6-8) and so he calls for this judgment to be made (so much for those who like to quote Matt. 7:1 at times like this!). How sad it is that so many church leaders today are more concerned with what people think of them and having more people in the church than they are about the health and well-being of their church!

Apparently, another problem in the church at Corinth was believers suing believers. Paul is flabbergasted by this activity within the church. Unfortunately, this practice continues to the present day. Paul's concluding questions (6:7) just don't go over well in our present-day "I-want-my-rights" American culture.

Next, Paul returns to the theme of sexual immorality. His reasons for abstaining are very weighty! Our bodies were made for God and His glory! Further, now that we are Christians, we are part of the body of Christ! Therefore, if we enter into immorality, we are prostituting the body of Christ! This truly is a horrific picture that should be enough to keep even the weakest Christian from engaging such activity. If that reasoning is insufficient, then at least heed Paul's command to "flee from sexual immorality" (6:18). Isn't interesting that we are told to "resist" the devil, yet we are to "flee" from sexual sin? We must certainly take this warning and command from Paul seriously. Paul closes this section with some very familiar thoughts in 6:19-20. These are good reminders to us that we do not belong to ourselves. We were made by God for the glory of God, therefore we belong to God. Further, now that we are Christians, we have God living in us--we are His temple. This arrangement between God and us did come cheaply--there was a great cost! We have been bought with a price. That price was the precious blood of Jesus Christ when He gave Himself up for us. When we allow the passions of our flesh to lead us into sexual sin, we are showing the low estimation that we have for the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. If we would really think about this in detail, it would change the way we view sexual sin! Let's glorify God in our bodies! They belong to Him!

Day 58 – 1Corinthians 1-3

2009-11-03T20:09:00.000-08:00

1Corinthians is not a very “happy” letter. There were many problems in this church that Paul had started. Those problems are the occasion of this inspired epistle. Yet even in spite of those difficulties, Paul still opens this letter by thanking God for these believers. The ground for his thanks is the grace of God that had been given to them (1:4). They had been given so much that Paul describes them as having everything that they needed (1:5,7). Their problem was that they just weren’t using what they had wisely or well. This is a good reminder to us that we truly do have everything that we need for life and godliness, yet we must appropriate what we have in the right way and at the right time for the glory of God.

In addressing the difficulty of divisiveness, Paul makes a powerful statement in 1:17-18. First, he makes it very clear that “baptism” is not part of the gospel. This certainly should deal the “death-blow” to the false idea of baptismal regeneration! Paul specifically says that God did not send him to baptize, but to preach the gospel! He then goes on to point out the power of preaching. This too should be a corrective to the current-day lack of confidence in preaching. The preaching of the cross is the power of God! Preaching is where the power is. There is no life-changing power in emotionally-packed stories, moving dramas, etc. Life-changing power comes through the power of the preaching of the cross of Jesus Christ!

The manner of preaching is important to Paul as well as the content of the preaching. He makes this abundantly clear in the beginning of chapter 2. Apparently to Paul (and to God, seeing He inspired Paul to pen these words) there is a way to present the truth about Jesus Chris in a way that puts the focus on the messenger instead of the message. Paul strove to avoid that type of presentation. The result was that the faith of the people to whom he ministered was grounded in God and not Paul. O that we would have a return to this type of ministry where the preaching is about God and not the preacher! As a follow-up to that, Paul adds 2:14. The natural man doesn’t receive the things of the Spirit of God. If that is the case, then why do so many “preachers” attempt to make the things of the Spirit of God palatable to the unbeliever? This is an exercise in futility!

Paul again demonstrates his understanding that if anything of lasting value is to be done, then God is going to have to do it. He sees himself as a planter, others as “waterers,” and God as the One who causes growth (3:7-8). Truly life is all about God and His glory. Fruitful ministry is as well!

The next section is an often misunderstood passage of Scripture. The foundation of Jesus Christ that Paul has laid is the foundation of the church, not the individual Christian (at least in this passage of Scripture – 3:10-15). Therefore, the building of gold, silver and precious stones or wood, hay and straw is done by the ministers of the Church of Jesus Christ. We who strive to build the Church, must give diligent heed to how we do it. Paul has already identified in this letter some of the bad building materials (human wisdom) as well as the good (the preaching of the cross of Jesus). Let’s take care how we build the Church!

Day 57 – Romans 15-16

2009-11-03T20:07:00.000-08:00

Well, I missed another day! As I write this post (and the next day’s post as well) I am sitting on an airplane headed to SC for a couple weeks of vacation. So, yesterday was the day to prepare to leave. There was so much to do that I didn’t have time to post. So, here is the first of two posts for today.

Chapter divisions in the Bible are not inspired. They were added much later. They are certainly useful to us to help us find specific passages of Scripture more quickly and easily; however, sometimes the chapter divisions can actually break a line of thought that the Scripture writer was attempting to develop. The chapter division between Romans 14 and 15 is such an example. The beginning verses of chapter 15 are very clearly a continuation of the theme of chapter 14, namely that we ought to be looking out for our fellow-believers in an attempt to keep from causing them to stumble. This thought is actually somewhat of an illustration of what it looks like to “put on the Lord Jesus Christ” (13:14) because part of the reasoning that Paul uses is the example of Jesus Christ and how He did not live to please Himself (vs3). The thrust here is selfless serving of our brothers for the sake of unity in the body of Christ.

At 15:13 Paul begins to end this epistle. It’s interesting how many times it feels like Paul is about to end, and yet he continues to write! It’s almost like the preacher who continues to use words like, “finally,” “lastly,” and “in conclusion” and yet continues to preach! This first “closing” of Paul is truly a wonderful prayer to pray for one another. It is directed to the “God of hope.” Truly, God is the only One that can give us lasting hope! Paul prays that his readers would be filled with joy and peace, not merely given a measure of joy and peace. Notice, though, the path to these—believing! Faith is the pathway to being filled with joy and peace. Of course, the power behind this filling is the power of the Holy Spirit—God Himself! And the ultimate outcome is abundant hope! This verse truly is a gem to be meditated on time and time again.

Paul’s humility is again on display for us. In vs18 he makes the declaration that he “will not venture to speak of anything except what Christ has accomplished through [him].” Where does this put the focus? On Christ and His enabling grace and power! What marvelous things were done through Paul that from a humanly standpoint he could have taken the credit for! But he refuses and continues to deflect the praise and honor to the One to whom it is due—Jesus Christ!

After listing his greetings to the Roman church, Paul adds a warning in 16:17 concerning divisive people. Paul’s love for the church continues to shine through. What he has already done has well-equipped the church for unity. Right doctrine is the foundation to true biblical unity, and Paul has done a masterful job of presenting not only the doctrine that unites, but also the application of that doctrine that will preserve this unity. However, Paul knows that there is no such thing as a perfect church, and so he warns against these people who would come in and try to destroy the unity that Paul’s letter has attempted to establish.
Paul then closes this magnificent letter with a final doxology. A doxology is literally a “word of glory.” This entire book has put the glory of God on display and so a “word of glory” is certainly a fitting end to this book. Soli Deo Gloria!

Day 56 - Romans 12-14

2009-11-01T22:10:00.000-08:00

Today we begin the so-called "practical" section of Romans. That is not to say that the first 11 chapters are not "practical." It's just that these last 5 chapters of Romans deal primarily with the "practice" of the believer rather than the "doctrine" of the believer that was covered in the first section of Romans.

Paul begins this section with an appeal to the reader that is based on the truths contained in the first section. This appeal is a very familiar one. Whenever you come to one of these "familiar" passages, it is good to ask yourself. "Why is this so frequently quoted or referenced?" I believe this particular passage is so often quoted because it is so clear in describing the whole-life responsibility of the Christian--to give himself completely to God in order to be transformed by God.

12:9-21 contains quite a few machine-gun-type commands. One can feel a bit overwhelmed by all of this, and rightly so. Any attempt to obey all of these commands perfectly in one's own strength will certainly end in utter failure. It is passages like this that are wonderful reminders to us of how much we need the grace of God to live the Christian life. I can't do this list of commands on my own, but by God's grace, I can live a consistent Christian life to the glory of the Giver of that grace!

Chapter 13 contains a good reminder to us about our relationship with the authorities in our life. Our view of governmental authorities in particular tends to vary depending on which political party is in office. This chapter reminds us that whether those in power line up with our morals and virtues or not, they are in power because of the sovereign ordination of God. Therefore, they deserve not only our obedience but also our respect. Let's be careful to give honor to whom honor is due.

The last verse of chapter 13 is quite the admonition from the Apostle Paul. We are told to "put on" a number things throughout the NT, but none are quite as important as this. We are told to put on the Lord Jesus Christ! In every deed, thought and motive we are to strive to be like Christ. In doing this, we will not be making provision for the flesh to gratify its desires. This is a good reminder that the best way to keep from doing something is to focus on what we should be doing. One preacher put it this way, "The best way to keep from 'don'ting' is to do so much that we don't have time to don't." If we would focus ourselves on putting on the Lord Jesus Christ faithfully, then we wouldn't have to work so hard at not making provision for the flesh. It's like this--the best way to keep from going east is to focus on going west. You can't go in two opposite directions at the same time!

Chapter 14 is a clear call to Christian charity in areas concerning which the Bible is not definitive. The danger here is putting things in this category that shouldn't belong there as well as not putting things in this category that should. I guess that exercise in an of itself can be somewhat in this very category. Regardless of what things you do or do not put in this category, the overarching principle that is at stake here is the well-being of your fellow believer. We must be careful that we do not put a stumbling block in our brother's way (vs13).

Day 55 - Romans 9-11

2009-10-31T22:23:00.000-07:00

There has been much debate about some of the verses in chapter 9 of Romans. It is true that they can certainly make us feel a bit uncomfortable. Some have tried to take the "uncomfortable" verses and reinterpret them so that they "sit" better with human reasoning. I think that is quite unfortunate. Paul knew that what he was writing was difficult and quite controversial. Why else would he have included verses such as vs14,19? Of course this is difficult to comprehend, but then again, we must realize that we're dealing with the mind and purpose of an infinite, sovereign God here! We shouldn't be surprised that it's difficult, but rather expect it to be so! In all of this difficulty, let us glory in the wisdom of God and His grace toward us who believe. Let us not get so caught up in trying to make all the connections here fit together in a nice, neat box (you'll never get there anyway) and instead praise the Lord that He has shown mercy to us! Let's let God be God and trust Him. He knows what He is doing!

If chapter 8 of Romans contains the "Golden Chain of Salvation" (8:29-30), then chapter 10 contains the "Golden Chain of Evangelism" (10:13-15). Starting in reverse order, Paul speaks of those who are "saved" (vs13). How did they get there? Well, they called upon the Name of the Lord. Why did they do that? Because they believed (vs14). Why did they believe? They heard (vs14). How did they hear? Someone preached the gospel to them (vs14). Why did those who preached preach? Because someone sent them (vs15). So the order goes like this: God sends all of His people to preach the gospel to the whole world (Matthew 28:19-20; Mark 16:15; Acts 1:8). While they are going they preach. There are those who hear the preaching and as a result, they believe. The outward manifestation of that inward belief is a calling on the Name of the Lord unto salvation. Let us all do our part in preaching this good news about Jesus Christ so that many may hear, believe, call and be saved!

Chapter 11 of Romans contains Paul's reminder to the Gentile believers in Rome that they are "wild" olive branches. The Jewish people are the natural olive branches. Some unbelieving national Jews were cut off (vs20), and some believing Gentiles have been grafted in (vs17). Paul's charge to these Gentiles is "do not be arrogant" (vs18). The reason is this, "You are not the root. You are only branches, and wild grafted branches at that!" (vs18). How thankful must we be for the kindness of God toward us "wild" branches (vs22)! Therefore let us continue in His kindness and so prove to be a genuine part of His people!

This chapter ends the "doctrinal" section of the book of Romans. Before moving to the "practical" section, Paul includes a doxology to close out the first section. It truly is a "word of glory" concerning our great God. Take a minute to reread this portion of Scripture. Pray this to our God from your heart:
Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgments and how inscrutable his ways! “For who has known the mind of the Lord, or who has been his counselor? Or who has given a gift to him that he might be repaid?” For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be glory forever. Amen.

Day 54 - Romans 7-8

2009-10-30T21:50:00.000-07:00

There is a lot of talk about being free from the Law. Unfortunately, what many people think the meaning of that phrase is that they can now act however they please. Romans 7:4 absolutely annihilates that line of reasoning. True, we are dead to the Law through the death of Jesus Christ, but not in the way that some would have us think. The Law no longer has power over us to condemn us because Christ fulfilled the Law perfectly on our behalf. Notice, though, the purpose of the death of Christ in this verse--"so that [we] may belong to another." The point is not that we are free to whatever we please, but that we now have a new master--Jesus Christ. No longer are we bound to the old master (the Law) that would condemn us, but we now are bound to a new Master who has redeemed us with His blood so that we would in turn "bear fruit for God." This is the end of our salvation--that by the power of our new Master, we would be fruit-bearers for the God who loved us enough to send His Son to die for us!

Right on the heels of that, Paul launches into the inner struggle that each of us has as we seek to bear fruit in the power of our new Master (vs15-25). How true this is of our current condition. We have been given a new nature at salvation, yet that new nature still exists in a fleshly body. Our new nature gives us new desires, yet our old fleshly body so often gets in the way. This is why sometimes we do the things that we don't really want to do and we don't do the things that we really do want to do. There is a constant struggle in the Christian life to live out these new desires while still clothed in the flesh. But thanks be to God who gives us grace and strength to live new lives in the power of the cross of Jesus Christ.

Chapter 8 is just jam-packed with wonderful truths. I would like to point out some powerful verses and just make some brief comments about them:
8:1 - When we are "in Christ" there is no longer any condemnation for us because Jesus Christ took our condemnation in our place - Praise the Savior!
8:17 - Since we are the "children of God" that makes us heirs of God and joint-heirs with Jesus Christ! We get what He deserves because we now are His brothers and part of His body!
8:18 - We all suffer. Sometimes we even suffer because we are doing the right thing, but all of this suffering pales in comparison to the glory that God is working in us through the suffering.
8:28 - What a comforting verse this is particularly during those difficult times! God always has our best good in mind in ordering the events of our lives. Let us trust Him! He knows what He is doing!
8:29-30 - This "Golden Chain" of salvation demonstrates that salvation truly is all of God from the beginning to the end. Therefore, we can be confident and assured that what God has begun, He will complete!
8:31-32 - God is "for us." What an amazing thought! Consider the fact that at one time we were alienated from Him. We were His enemies! But now, in Christ Jesus, He is "for us." And since He was "for us" in giving His Son to save us, He will continue to be "for us" in giving us everything that we need for life and godliness!
8:35-39 - I don't know if there is a more precious passage than this in the entire Bible! God loves me and nothing can separate me from the love of God in Christ Jesus! His love is a persistent, triumphant love.

Day 53 - Romans 4-6

2009-10-29T21:36:00.000-07:00

Paul's argument in chapter 4 is that justification (our being declared righteous before the Judge of the Universe) is NOT based on works, but rather it is base on grace that comes to the individual through faith. If it is based upon grace, then this precludes salvation on the basis of works! It is impossible for salvation to be by grace and by works at the same time. These two ideas are mutually exclusive! Therefore, since it is by grace through faith, that faith cannot be a work! The other point that Paul is emphasizing here is that the promise of God to justify sinners by grace through faith came to Abraham before the external rite of circumcision was even established. Therefore, this promise is valid to both Jews and Gentiles! Therefore, this promise is not contingent upon external conformity to a ceremonial code, but rather on the heart of the individual.

There are so many very precious verses in the first part of chapter 5! We can be at peace with God because of Jesus Christ (vs1). God's love has been poured into our hearts by the Holy Spirit (vs5). God didn't just love us, He manifested that love by giving Jesus to be our Savior Substitute when we were still His enemies (vs8). These are wonderful truths, but I'd like to focus a bit on the last part of chapter 5. It is in these verses that the somewhat controversial subject of "Original Sin" is discussed. This is the idea that because of Adam's sin in the Garden of Eden, all those that have descended from Adam are born sinners. In other words, a person doesn't even have to commit an actual sin to be considered a sinner by God. The reality is that we don't become a sinner when we sin, but rather we sin because we are sinners. For some, this is troublesome because it seems to put all men at an unfair disadvantage right off the bat. None of us had a chance even from our birth. It seems to hold all of us accountable for something that we had no part in. However, though this is true, the contrast here is simply glorious. Just as all who are in Adam are condemned, so also all who are in Christ are justified. You see, for those who would say, "If Adam did it, then why am I guilty?", I respond, "If Christ did it, then why are you now innocent?" The point I'm trying to make here is that if you have a problem with a "federal" view of condemnation where one man's sin "ruins" it for all others after him, then you will have a problem with the "federal" view of justification where one man's obedience secures justification for all who are in Him. If you reject this "federal" view, then you are first of all denying what the Bible clearly teaches here in Romans 5, but also, secondly, you end up making it necessary for you to earn your own righteousness for your salvation, something in which we all miserably fail! Paul's argument is clear here in this chapter--all in Adam die, all in Christ are made alive! Praise the Lord for the imputed righteousness of Jesus Christ!

Chapter 6 takes the truths of chapters 3-5 and gives them legs! In other words, all this talk about the inability of man to save himself, the fact that salvation is not by works, but by grace through faith, the fact that we are at peace with God because of Jesus Christ did for us on our behalf, all this talk is not just window-dressing. It's not just something to sit around and admire. These truths have an effect on the way that we live our lives! This effect is namely that we should therefore no longer live in the sin from which we have been saved! The transformation that occurs at salvation is so radical that it not only changes us inside, but it changes us outside as well. While this outward change is not the means to our salvation, it certainly is an outflow of our salvation! Therefore, if there is not an outward change, one must wonder if there really has been an inward change. Examine yourself to see if you really are in the faith! Let's be diligent in considering ourselves dead to sin an alive to God as servants of righteousness!

Day 52 - Romans 1-3

2009-10-28T22:07:00.000-07:00

OK, here we go! There is absolutely no way that I can do justice to these chapters! A full blog post could be written on just about every verse! I'll just be pointing out a few things or else these posts are going to get really, really, really long.

Romans 1:16-17 contain the thesis of the book of Romans. It is about the Gospel--the good news about Jesus Christ. More specifically, it is about the saving power of the Gospel. Even more specifically, it is about believing (trusting, resting, etc.) in the saving power of the Gospel. The reason that there is saving power in the Gospel is because in it the righteousness of God is revealed. Our greatest need is righteousness in the sight of a holy God. The Gospel takes care of that need. It both cancels out our debt (our sin) and gives us a credit on our account in the form of the imputed righteousness of Jesus Christ. This transaction happens as we abandon our trust in our own works and place our entire trust on the finished work of Jesus Christ--that is where true saving power resides! It is what causes the just (those justified by faith in Christ) to live!

Romans 1:18-32 is a powerful description of the fallen condition of man. It it not a pretty picture. Whenever you come across a portion of Scripture such as this, it is a good time to take some time to examine your own life. If this characterizes the normal activity of your life, then you need to repent of your sin and turn to Christ by faith, because this type of sin manifested on a regular basis in your life gives the testimony that you do not belong to Christ! These portions of Scripture are not just to show us how not to live, but rather they exist to show us our need of Jesus Christ to save us from this type of lifestyle!

As we read through the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John, we noticed on a regular basis the harsh words of Jesus against the external religion of the Pharisees. Paul continues this theme in chapter 2 of Romans. The conclusion of this chapter (2:28-29) explains the point that he has been attempting to make throughout the chapter, namely that external conformity to the letter of the Law is not what God demands from people, but rather inward heart transformation. It is for this very reason (as we shall see throughout the rest of this book) that salvation is all of God, for not one of us can "circumcise" our heart! This is the work of God!

Romans 3 contains another description of fallen humanity, yet this time, the point is to show not just the sinfulness of mankind, but also to utter inability of mankind to save himself. How can one come to God for salvation if he has no understanding, if he doesn't even seek after God of his own will, if he doesn't fear God? This condition of inability is pervasive notice the number of times the terms "all," "none," and "no one" are used! Because of this utter inability to save ourselves, salvation (also justification) is by grace--it's a gift, not something that we earn. But just as all gifts cost the giver something, this wonderful gift cost Jesus His life! God put forth Jesus "as a propitiation" (vs25). This means that Jesus bore the wrath of God that was against our sin. This is how God can remain just (He punished our sin in Christ) and the justifier of the one who believes in Jesus (vs26). This is the wonderful truth of double imputation! Our sin was imputed to Him, therefore He died; His righteousness was imputed to us, therefore we live! He died in our place receiving what we deserved. We live in His place receiving what He deserved. Hallelujah! What a Savior!

Day 51 - Acts 27-28

2009-10-27T22:34:00.000-07:00

Today is a momentous day in this trek through the NT! This is the last day of narrative. Tomorrow we begin the epistles in which we will spend almost 30 days and then spend the last 10 days in future "history"! I hope you'll keep until the end!

The story of Paul's shipwreck is recorded in chapter 27. It's interesting to see the progression in the reaction of the ship's sailors to the words of Paul. At first there is complete rejection (vs11), but by the end of the chapter there is complete compliance (vs31-32)! The same centurion that ignored Paul's counsel at the beginning is the same one who practically saves Paul's life in the end (vs43). In the middle of all of this, Paul addresses the ship's passengers and sailors (vs21-26). In this address, he refers to God as the one "to whom I belong and whom I worship" (vs23). These are two ideas that we should consider well. First, we belong to God! We are His! We are not our own. We do not belong to ourselves. We have no rights. We've been purchased. We are owned, not independent. If we would get a handle on that concept and live our lives accordingly, so many areas of our lives would get straightened out! Second, we are to worship God. God is seeking for worshipers (John 4:23). We must worship only Him and we must worship Him in His way--in spirit and truth. Our whole lives must be an act of worship to Him!

On Paul's journey to Rome, they stopped in the city of Puteoli on the western side of Italy, about 170 miles from Rome. Some Christian brothers heard of Paul's being there, went to see him and were a great encouragement to Paul (vs13-15). Isn't it amazing how our oneness in Christ can transcend distance and culture! This is the beauty of the body of Christ! Wherever you go, when you find true believers, you have to opportunity for fellowship and mutual encouragement. This recently happened to me on a trip to Disneyland. While walking with my daughter to go to a ride, I noticed a young man wearing a sweatshirt that displayed a theological seminary's name. He was just sitting on a bench reading a book. I stopped and had a brief conversation with him, and both of us were greatly encouraged! I'd never met him before, yet we were able to have true, spiritual fellowship one with another because of our oneness in Christ!

This book ends with Paul finally at Rome. What does he do? He calls for the Jewish leaders of that area to come and talk with him. He shares with them the good news about Jesus Christ and some believed while others disbelieved. He then makes the statement that "this salvation of God has been sent to the Gentiles; they will listen" (vs28). Are you one who has listened? I trust that you have! Paul, undaunted by the rejection of so many of the Jewish leaders, continues to share the Gospel faithfully and with boldness to all who came to him. O that we would follow his example and share the good news of Jesus Christ with all who come to us!

Day 50 - Acts 25-26

2009-10-26T22:12:00.001-07:00

Before Paul makes his defense before King Agrippa, while being questioned by Festus, he appeals to Caesar - right given to any Roman citizen. He did this, no doubt, thinking that there was no way for him to get a fair trial back in Jerusalem (exactly what Festus was suggesting - 25:9). After this appeal, Paul does get a hearing with King Agrippa. Here are a few things that jumped out at me in his defense.

First, it is often said of Paul that he pursued the establishment of the church of Jesus Christ after his salvation just as passionately as he had pursued the persecution of the church before his salvation. The truth of this is seen in 26:11 where he relates how his persecution of the church extended beyond Jerusalem "even to foreign cities." Of course, it is well known of Paul that God used him to spread the outreach of the church far beyond the confines of Jerusalem (the headquarters of the Apostles) to foreign cities such as Ephesus, Corinth, Philippi, Thessalonica and Colossi.

Second, Paul never tires of telling people of his conversion and how God miraculously intervened in his life to bring him to faith in Jesus Christ. He related the same story before the Jewish Council back in chapter 22. We should never tire either of telling others of what wondrous things God has done for us!

Third, Paul had been ministering, not in his own strength, but rather by "the help that comes from God" (26:22). This was the key to his success thus far. Had he attempted to establish churches in his own strength, he would have failed. Here, again, Paul is a good example for us. May we minister by means of "the help that comes from God"!

Day 49 - Acts 22-24

2009-10-25T22:29:00.000-07:00

Paul was no dummy! His "smarts" are truly on display in these chapters. The first thing is that after being falsely accused, his Roman captors are preparing to beat him, and Paul nonchalantly brings up the fact of his Roman citizenship to get himself out of an unnecessary beating (22:25). A belief in the sovereignty of God does not preclude the use of our brains! Just because God had allowed this travesty that was taking place didn't mean, in Paul's mind, that he needed just to sit back and let the thing play out. The second demonstration came when Paul realized that his Jewish accusers were made up of both Pharisees and Sadducees. Knowing that these two groups of people had differing opinions about the idea of "resurrection," Paul capitalized on that fact and used it to bring this "circus" court to gridlock (23:6-10). The third instance is Paul's securing a hearing for his nephew with the tribune (23:16-22) in order to expose the plot to kill Paul. There is a reason that God gave us brains and the gift of His wisdom. The challenge always comes in balancing the proper use of those alongside faith and submission to the sovereign will of God that He is working in our lives. This is another area where wisdom is necessary!

In Paul's initial address to Felix, he makes the statement that he "always take(s) pains to have a clear conscience toward both God and man" (24:16). It was this very reason that he was able to stand with confidence against his accusers. The only thing of which they could rightly accuse him was belief in Jesus as the Christ and calling others to come to Him. This is the result of living a life of integrity. May our accusers come to the same fate! May they only be able to accuse us rightly of being followers of Jesus Christ and encouraging others to join us!

Day 48 - Acts 20-21

2009-10-24T19:57:00.000-07:00

Paul's farewell speech to the Ephesian elders is remarkable in many ways. Paul was able to say with confidence that he was innocent of their blood (20:26), meaning that he had fulfilled his responsibility with regard to their spiritual well-being. He could say this because he "did not shrink from declaring to [them] anything that was profitable" (20:20), he "did not shrink from declaring to [them] the whole counsel of God" (20:27), and "that for three years [he] did not cease night or day to admonish everyone with tears" (20:31). There was helpfulness, completeness and passion in his ministry. Even in his final words to these people we find him more passionate about the ministry of the gospel than he was about his own life (20:24). We find him teaching the elders how to continue the ministry (20:28), and warning them of the false teachers that would come (20:29-30). What a model that is for us today!

Paul's resolve continues to be demonstrated into the next chapter as he was determined to go to Jerusalem even if it meant his own death for the cause of Christ (21:13). After giving his report to James and the elders at Jerusalem, his path to his own death begins. Even after observing a ritual of purification, some Jews that were angry with Paul accuse him of things that were simply not true. Ultimately, Paul gets arrested because others were trying to beat him up and even kill him. The amazing thing about all of this is that God used this "travesty" to do several wonderful things. First, it gave Paul the chance to have interaction with certain individuals that he never would have had an audience with had he not been a prisoner (we will read about some of these in the upcoming chapters). Second, it "slowed" Paul down enough to write the prison epistles (Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, Philemon - some of the best loved of Paul's epistles). Third, it wound up sending him to Rome, where Paul had the opportunity to lead some of Caesar's household to Christ (cf.Phil. 4:22). This just shows how the sovereignty of God works to bring the best good out of all circumstances.

Day 47 - Acts 18-19

2009-10-23T21:33:00.000-07:00

It's interesting to notice the activity of Paul in his ministry in chapter 18. He reasoned (vs4,19). He tried to persuade (vs4). He was occupied with the Word (vs5). He was testifying (vs5). He taught the Word of God (vs11). He strengthened the disciples (vs23). Very soon we will get to see exactly how he did all of these things when we get into his epistles. You will see his reasoning. You will sense he attempt to persuade. You will read how much of the Word (the OT) he uses in his writing. You will read his testifying. You will be taught the Word of God and you will be strengthened. His activity continues to this day!

Paul's ministry continues in chapter 19 as he entered Ephesus. His was a permeating work. In two years, everyone in the surrounding area had heard the word of the Lord (vs10). No doubt this took a lot of hard work. He did this even in the face of consistent opposition. O, that we too would have the same boldness and work ethic that Paul had so that all around us would hear the word of the Lord!

The story of the seven sons of Sceva has long been a favorite, entertaining story of mine. This is one of those events that I would love to see, if there is "video play-back" in heaven! Here these impostors are trying to copy Paul by attempting to cast out demons in the name of Jesus, and the demon replies, "I know Jesus, and I know Paul, but who in the world are you guys?!" Then the man jumps on these guys and beats them to a pulp. No doubt these seven sons learned their lesson. But the thing that I think is really interesting is this--the name of Jesus is not some magic word that anyone can use to accomplish great things. The important thing is not just that you use the "name" of Jesus, but that you know this Jesus and are ministering in His power!

Day 46 - Acts 15-17

2009-10-22T21:44:00.000-07:00

Well, we are on the other side of the hill, as it were. We are beginning the 2nd half of the NT as we have finished 45 days' worth of reading. I hope you will be faithful until the end! Don't give up...let's finish strong!

Chapter 15 contains what is called by many the "Jerusalem Council." Apparently, some Jews came to Christ and were willing to accept Gentiles as fellow brothers, but yet they wanted to impose some aspects of the Mosaic Law on these Gentile converts--namely circumcision. After a long discussion, it was determined that this was not something that they should require of these Gentile brothers, but yet there were certain things that were suggested that the Gentiles observe (see vs20). These things were more readily seen by others than circumcision and were encouraged to be observed for the sake of the Gentiles' Jewish brothers in Christ. The main points to understand from this account is that the ceremonial law is not necessary to follow for salvation or even growth in sanctification, yet while some things are not necessary, they are encouraged for the sake of the conscience of other fellow-believers.

The disagreement between Paul and Barnabas concerning John Mark was certainly unfortunate, yet isn't it amazing how God used this to further His Kingdom?! Now, instead of just one missionary team, there are two doing the work of the ministry! It is also interesting that by the end of Paul's life, he was asking for John Mark because, by that time, he was profitable to Paul for the ministry.

The question of the Philippian jailer to Paul and Silas was probably not what it looked like on the surface - "Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” (16:30). In reality, he was probably asking them how he was going to make it through this sticky situation without losing his physical life. Paul, in the same manner as Jesus, answers a different and yet certainly more important question relating to this man's spiritual, eternal life! The answer he gives is simple, "Believe in the Lord Jesus!" Simple faith is what is needed for eternal life.

Paul's speech on Mars Hill (17:22-31) is truly amazing. He reads his environment by noticing the inscription to the "unknown god." He uses this as his launching point to give them the gospel. He starts by talking about how amazing this God is: 1) He made the world and everything in it, 2) He is entirely self-sufficient, needing nothing from us, 3) He is a good God, providing everything for His creation, 4) He is near us because He is omnipresent, 5) He is longsuffering by overlooking previous ignorance, but now 6) He commands everyone to repent! This repentance is necessary because judgment is coming (17:31) and the one who is judge is Jesus Christ who has died and resurrected. At that point, the people had a decision to make. Some of them outright rejected his teaching, others wanted to hear some more, while others believed and became followers of Jesus Christ. A good question to ask yourself right now is, "Which group am I in?" I trust that by God's grace you are in the final group--those who believe in and follow Jesus Christ!

Day 45 - Acts 13-14

2009-10-21T22:41:00.000-07:00

So often, as we read in the book of Acts, we see the apostles imitating the ministry of Jesus Christ. There is similarity in works - healing, etc. There is similarity in words - preaching repentance, etc. Here in Acts 13 we see the similarity in dealing with false religious leaders. Just as Jesus was very direct and harsh against the Pharisees who were leading people astray, so Paul, here, is extremely harsh in his reaction to the false teaching of Elymas (vs8-11). False teachers are not people to be soft and accommodating towards, but rather, they are people to be singled out and exposed for who they are and soundly denounced publicly.

Paul's sermon in Antioch in Pisidia is powerful! What a wonderful recounting of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. In the midst of this sermon in the synagogue, Paul makes an ironic statement (13:27). He says that the Jews and their rulers, since they did not understand the Scriptures (of which Jesus was the fulfillment), ended up fulfilling other Scriptures regarding the Messiah by condemning Jesus. In other words, the ones who were denying that Jesus was the Christ, ended up confirming that He indeed was the Messiah by their rejection of Him and subsequent crucifixion. This is the amazing sovereignty of God on display that He could take the very actions that were intended to disprove that Jesus was the Messiah and use them to confirm Jesus' identification as that very Messiah!

A couple of other brief observations in this chapter: 13:39 - the gospel is better than the law - the law condemns us as sinners, the gospel frees us from sin! 13:52 - a Holy-Spirit-filled person is a joyful person!

Chapter 14 is a good reminder that there are two extremes to be ready for in the gospel ministry. The first is opposition. Paul and Barnabas were the focus of much opposition in this chapter, even to the point of Paul's being stoned - vs19 (he probably actually did die, yet God raised him up - just my opinion). Any time you try to do something in the service of God, you will face opposition. If you never are opposed by anyone, then you might want to examine what you are doing to make sure that it truly is Gospel ministry! The second thing to be aware of is over-exaltation. The people in Lystra wanted to elevate Paul and Barnabas to the status of "gods." They were ready even to offer sacrifices to them (vs13). Paul and Barnabas rightly restrained this inappropriate "worship." We too, whenever we are met with success in our ministries, must deflect the praise and credit to God. We must warn the people to whom we minister not to put us on a "pedestal" as it were, and remind them that "we also are men, of like nature with you" (vs15).

Soli Deo Gloria - To God alone be the glory!

Day 44 - Acts 11-12

2009-10-20T22:04:00.000-07:00

The truth of the Gospel ends racism! That's the message of the first part of Acts 11. You can just sense the racist tendencies of the Jews to whom Peter is reporting. But by the end of the report from Peter concerning the conversion of Cornelius, the Gentile centurion, their attitude had changed completely. I love how Peter concludes his explanation of what happened, "Who was I that I could stand in God's way?” (vs17). Luke then records how the Gospel was being advanced among Jews and Gentiles alike.

This chapter also records the beginning of the connection between Paul and Barnabas. Barnabas was the instigator at first. He went and found Paul (vs25-26). Their first ministry together was in Antioch, and it was here that the followers of Jesus Christ began to be called "Christians." This is a wonderful term for it literally means, "little Christs." In other words, these people were acting like Jesus--they were exhibiting Christlikeness. Unfortunately, this term has lost a lot of its significance in our present day. It now refers to someone who claims to believe in Jesus rather than someone who actually is Christlike. I trust that if you call yourself a "Christian" that you will live up to its true meaning.

The persecution of Christians in the first century continued as Herod killed James and imprisoned Peter, intending to have him killed as well. The story of Peter's release is miraculous, but if you remember, it's not the first time that Peter has been able to "escape" from prison (see 5:17-21). With this in mind, you'd think that the early church would have been praying not only "earnestly" (vs5), but also expectantly. However, when Peter is freed from the prison by the angel (in answer to the earnest prayer of the church), the ones who have been praying don't believe that their prayers have been answered (vs15)! How often do we merely go through the motions of praying without the expectancy and faith that God will work?!

The result of the release of Peter angered Herod (and cost the sentries their lives vs19). Herod's anger continued, but this time against the people of Tyre and Sidon. In their attempt to appease Herod, they showered him with accolades (vs22). The result was that the pride of Herod increased, so God brought him down to the grave (and in a quite gruesome way at that! - vs23). So, the man who had been trying to persecute Christians and hinder the spread of the Gospel has now been executed by God Almighty, and "the word of God increased and multiplied" (vs24). How poignant is the inclusion of that verse at this point in the chapter! No matter what man may do, God and His truth continues to increase and multiply! Soli Deo Gloria!

Day 43 - 8-10

2009-10-19T22:06:00.000-07:00

These three chapters signal the beginning of a shift in this book. The shift is further away from Jerusalem and Judea to Samaria, and expanding beyond just ministry to the Jews but also to Gentiles. This is quite precious to me, seeing that I myself am a Gentile (in a physical sense). Without what happened in these chapters, people like me would never have been included in the Gospel invitation!

There have always been people who are only interested in the Christian faith for the power and recognition that they can achieve in the "ministry." This started very early with the "Simon" in chapter 8. How silly it is to think that you could "buy" the power of the Holy Spirit. Peter's strong condemnation (vs20-23) demonstrates that the "believing" of Simon (vs13) was merely an external ritual and never truly changed his greedy heart.

There is an interesting contrast between the conversion of the Ethiopian eunuch, Cornelius and Saul (later called Paul). The eunuch and Cornelius were searching for truth and were very welcoming to the presentation of the gospel from either Philip or Peter. On the other hand, Saul was persecuting the church and God appeared to him in Person, as it were, to call him to Himself. God uses different approaches to draw different kinds of people to Himself. We should be sensitive to the people to whom we present the gospel and confront them in the way that they need to be confronted.

It is also interesting to me how in both chapter 9 and chapter 10 there are individuals who "argue" with God. Ananias argued about God's command to go to Saul (9:13-14). Peter argued about God's command to eat the food that was set before him (10:14). In both cases, though, obedience followed along with wonderful results - Saul was commissioned to preach the Gospel to the Gentiles and the household of Cornelius came to faith in Jesus Christ. What blessings await us if we would not argue with God and simply trust and obey!

Day 42 - Acts 6-7

2009-10-18T20:43:00.000-07:00

Chapter 6 records the selection of the first deacons of the church (or at least the men who performed the function of a deacon). The situation that led to this appointment of these men was that there was a physical need that the apostles thought it better to be handled by a separate group rather than themselves. This was not because they thought it was too little of a thing to occupy their time, it's just that their primary role was a spiritual one. The wise delegation of this matter to qualified men resulted in the fruitful ministry of the apostles (vs7).

Chapter 7 is the record of Stephen's speech to the council. It is his response to the accusations leveled against him in the last verses of chapter 6 (vs11-14). In those verses, Stephen was charged with speaking blasphemous words against God, Moses and the Temple. In recounting a brief summarization of the history of Israel, Stephen demonstrates that he believes wholeheartedly in the God the OT and that he holds Moses in the highest regard. He then moves to issue of the Temple. The religious leaders had elevated the Temple to an unnecessarily high position, so Stephen quotes from Isaiah (ch66) to demonstrate that the dwelling of God transcends the mere location of the Temple. He then levels his accusation against the religious leaders by telling them that they are just as hardhearted as the Jews of old who persecuted and even killed the prophets because they have done the same thing to the Lord Jesus Christ (vs51-53). The ironic thing is that Stephen himself was about to be added to the number of those who have been martyred for the sake of the truth! What is amazing to me about the murder of Stephen is his response, "Lord, do not hold this sin against them" (vs60).

Day 41 - Acts 4-5

2009-10-17T21:54:00.000-07:00

Chapter 4 begins with Peter and John before the Jewish Council. Apparently, they were not too supportive of the teaching and preaching of the apostles. When asked about the power and authority by which they taught and did miracles, once again Peter deflects the attention away from himself and onto Jesus Christ (vs10). In this deflection, Peter makes a statement that didn't go over very well then and still doesn't to this day. He makes the assertion in vs12 that the only way of salvation is through the Name of Jesus Christ. In other words, Christianity is exclusive. This is a continuation of the teaching of Jesus in John 14:6 when Jesus claimed to be the only way to the Father.

After their release and reunion with the other believers, they had a time of corporate prayer. This was the source of their strength. They acknowledge the sovereign hand of God and ask Him for boldness to continue to proclaim His truth (vs29). This prayer was answered immediately and in dramatic fashion (vs31). The filling of the Holy Spirit was immediately demonstrated in the boldness to preach the Word.

The story of the hypocrisy of Ananias and Sapphira is chilling! They conspired to sell some property for a price and then keep some of it, yet tell the church that they were donating the entirety of the profit. The result was immediate, divine execution! One wonders why this type of immediate, severe judgment does not continue to the present day. Maybe the reason is that the early church needed to understand the seriousness of situations like this, and all it took was one illustration and that was sufficient for the rest of church history. It certainly had an immediate effect on the early church (5:11). May it continue to affect us as we seek to live lives of integrity both in the church and in the world.

The arrest of the apostles in chapter 5 has some very humorous twists. They were imprisoned because their teaching and healing were calling so much attention to themselves that it made the religious leaders of the day jealous (vs17). Then they are miraculously released from their imprisonment (vs19). So, what do they do? They go right back to doing the very thing for which they had been arrested and imprisoned. How shocked must the religious leaders have been when they figured all of this out?! So, they bring the apostles back into custody and put pressure on them to quit their preaching. I love Peter's response here - "We must obey God rather than men" (vs29). This is a wonderful principle by which we must live our lives as well.

The council was debating what should be done, and Gamaliel spoke some very powerful words. He mentioned other uprisings that quickly abated and said that this one will be just like the others that came and went if it is only of man. However, he rightly asserted that if this was a movement of God, then it would impossible to overthrow it (vs39). And here we are, almost 2,000 years later, and this movement is still going strong! Praise the Lord!

Day 40 - Acts 1-3

2009-10-16T22:21:00.000-07:00

The word "witness" is a very important word in the book of Acts. It occurs more in Acts (13x) than all four Gospels combined (5x) and more than all of the epistles combined (12x). It occurs three times in the first three chapters of the book of Acts. The first occurrence is in 1:8 where Jesus tells His apostles that their job is to bear witness concerning Him in Jerusalem (their home town), Judea (their surrounding region), Samaria (their neighboring region) and to the end of the earth! We will see this progression laid out for us throughout the book. It is a good pattern for us to follow as we seek to bear witness to Christ ourselves. We should start first with those who are near us and then seek to expand that witness incrementally, both through our own personal efforts as well as encouraging and funding the efforts of others (e.g. missionaries).

Chapter one gives the account of the apostles seeking to fill the vacancy among the twelve left by the betrayal and death of Judas. They do so by seeking qualified men (1:21-22), narrowing it down to two (1:23), seeking direction from God (1:24-25) and then by casting lots (1:26). I think this is a good mix between using wisdom and reliance upon God (although, I'm not really comfortable with using the "casting of lots" as a regular and normal way to determine the will of God on a particular matter). The bigger question is this, did Matthias truly take the place of Judas among the 12 apostles? Some would argue, "Yes." However, it seems interesting to me that we never hear of him again, yet the majority of the book of Acts tells the story of the conversion and ministry of another apostle, the Apostle Paul, whom God used to start many churches and write a good portion of the NT. It seems to me that Paul would most likely be the one to fill the position of Judas, although it certainly is possible that there were to have been more than 12 apostles.

The record of the events of the day of Pentecost reveals the glory of God in so many ways. First, the apostles were filled with the Holy Spirit. I believe this to be the start of "the Church" - the coming of the Holy Spirit to remain on those who would repent from their sins and believe in Jesus as their Lord and Savior. Second, the result of this particular filling was their ability to speak in tongues - in this instance, these were actual languages that the apostles did not already know, yet they were able to communicate the truth of the Gospel to all kinds of men in their native tongues. Third, the result of this powerful, supernatural proclamation resulted in a massive conversion about 3,000 souls! Fourth, the result of conversion was the unity and fellowship of these first believers (2:42-47). In all of this, I see the centrality of the Word of God. It was the Word of God that was proclaimed in tongues. It was the fulfillment of the Word of God that was the focus of Peter's sermon. The Word of God, as taught by the apostles, was the primary focus of this newly reborn group of people. The Word of God must be central to our communication with both unbelievers and believers alike!

When Peter healed the lame man in chapter 3, he could have taken the credit for himself. From all outward appearances, this miracle was done by Peter. But Peter used the opportunity to deflect the attention away from himself and onto Jesus Christ. He proclaims very clearly that the reason this lame man was healed was because of faith in the Name of Jesus (3:16). In this proclamation of Peter (as well as the one in the previous chapter - 2:38), repentance is the central theme in his exhortation (3:19). This is a continuation of the theme of repentance in the preaching of John the Baptist, Jesus and the disciples as recorded in the Gospels.

Day 39 - John 20-21

2009-10-15T21:39:00.000-07:00

Well, we've come to the end of the Gospels. I trust that this journey has been a fruitful one for you as it has for me thus far!

I never tire of reading about the resurrection of Jesus. What an amazing fact! Other people have been raised to life (e.g. Lazarus, the widow at Nain's son, etc.), but none like Jesus. All others who had been resurrected ended up suffering death once again. Only Jesus was raised never to die again. Our future resurrection will like His (cf. Rom. 6:5). Jesus' resurrection body was, no doubt, a bit different than before He died. Twice it is recorded that He entered a room although the door had been locked (20:19,26). Also, in 21:4,12, there seems to be some uncertainty about the physical appearance of Jesus, though by vs12 His power and authority made Him quite easy to identify! The resurrection of Jesus, though, was a bodily resurrection, for He had hands and feet to touch (20:27). Our resurrection bodies will be like His (cf. Phil. 3:21). What hope the resurrection brings to us!

Chapter 20 contains another one of those verses where I see myself specifically mentioned. It is verse 29. Thomas had voiced his doubt concerning the resurrection of Jesus, even though the other disciples were bearing witness to it. He said that he would not believe unless he could see and feel the resurrected body of Jesus for himself. When Jesus does appear to him, he believes. Then comes verse 29. Jesus points out how Thomas would not believe until he saw, and then Jesus pronounces a blessing on those who believe without seeing. That's me! I believe in the resurrected Messiah and I've never seen Him physically (although I can't wait to do so!), therefore I am blessed! Praise the Lord for the blessing of faith!

Much has been written and said concerning the final interaction between Jesus and Peter in 21:15-19. I still am not completely certain about a number of things. Why the change in the word for "love"? Why did ask Peter three times if he loved Him? Was it to give Peter a chance to "redeem" himself because he had denied the Lord three times? What I am certain about is that what Jesus questioned Peter about is exactly what all of us need to do - love Jesus ourselves and not worry about the responsibilities of others!

Why did John write concerning all of these wonderful signs and teachings of Jesus? He recorded all of this so that the ones reading would "believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name" (20:31). I trust that in your reading of this book, you have come to believe this truth and have received the life that comes through His Name!

Day 38 - John 17-19

2009-10-14T22:50:00.000-07:00

John 17 contains the High Priestly Prayer of Jesus Christ. It is the longest recorded prayer that we have in the Scriptures. It truly is a treasure for us. Books could be and have been written on this chapter alone! Here are some wonderful truths that jumped out at me:

We are a gift from the Father to the Son (vs2,6,9). What a privilege that is for us not only to receive the gift of eternal life, but also to be a gift to the Son. I think this is what the hymn writer was getting at when he penned these words, "Why should I gain from His reward?"
Jesus' incarnation was all about the glory of God. Notice how many times the word "glory" or a form of that word appears in this chapter. The heavens declare the glory of God (Ps. 19:1). We are called to do all to the glory of God (1Cor. 10:31). But the clearest manifestation of the glory of God is seen in the person and work of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ!
Jesus prays for us in this prayer. I've said this before on this blog, and I'll continue to say it--I love seeing myself in the Bible! 17:20 is probably my favorite verse where I see myself. This is the case probably because in this verse Jesus is praying for me! I am one who did (and still does) believe in Him through the word of the apostles. This is not the last time that Jesus prayed for me. Hebrews tells us that He ever lives to make intercession for us (Heb. 7:25). We truly have a great High Priest!

On a side note, to those who would say that Jesus didn't come into existence until His birth, how do you explain verses like 17:5? - "And now, Father, glorify me in your own presence with the glory that I had with you before the world existed." Doesn't seem to work there does it?!

Chapters 18-19 launch us back into the narrative of the last days of Jesus. John doesn't record as much as the synoptic Gospels regarding Jesus' time in the Garden of Gethsemane. But one thing that he does mention that others don't is the initial reaction to the voice of Jesus in 18:6. What power! But that is what you expect from the Word who made all things (cf. John 1:3). What strikes me is the persistent stupidity of the soldiers! They've just been knocked over simply by the voice of Jesus, and yet they get up and try to get Him again! If Jesus had wanted to, He could have done that all night long! But then He would never had made it to the cross--the point of His incarnation.

The hypocrisy of the religious leaders is so glaring in 18:28. They are sinning by falsely accusing Jesus and inciting the people to riot against Pilate's attempts to release Jesus, yet they won't dare defile themselves by entering Pilate's headquarters! Another example of their straining at a gnat while at the same time swallowing a camel (Matt. 23:24).

When Jesus was before Pilate, He consistently surprised Pilate by His responses. My favorite is in 19:11. Jesus frankly and rightfully told Pilate that the only reason that he had authority over Him was because the Father had delegated it to him. The implications of this are huge! The Father sovereignly delegated the authority to Pilate to put Jesus to death, therefore, the Father was in control of this whole process and was ordaining the outcome so that we might be saved! What a glorious truth! What love!

Another pointer to the sovereign oversight of this whole process is seen in how many times John points out the fulfillment of prophecy in these chapters. 18:9 - Jesus asks for the release of His disciples to fulfill prophecy. 18:32 - The Romans put Jesus to death by crucifixion instead of the Jews (by stoning) to fulfill prophecy. 19:24 - Jesus' tunic was of one piece so that the soldiers would cast lots for it to fulfill prophecy. 19:28 - Jesus cries out, "I thirst," to fulfill prophecy. 19:36 - Jesus' death on the cross occurred much sooner than usual, therefore the soldiers did not break His legs in order to hasten death. This too guaranteed another prophecy would be fulfilled. Most of these are seemingly trivial things, but they demonstrate the careful supervision of this entire event by God Himself.

Day 37 - John 14-16

2009-10-13T21:49:00.000-07:00

There are so many very familiar verses in these chapters. I hope you didn't rush over them quickly just because they were familiar! They are familiar because they so clearly communicate such wonderful truths about our Savior and who He is and what does. A very familiar verse, yet somewhat misunderstood, is 14:2. Earlier versions use the word "mansions" to describe what is in the Father's house. This is an unfortunate translation, as the word really only means "a dwelling place." It also doesn't make a whole lot of sense to say that a "house" is full of "mansions." A better translation is "rooms." The whole "mansion" idea has spawned way too much "heaven-is-about-me" expectations with people arguing over how big each others' "mansions" are going to be. Now don't get me wrong, the "rooms" in my Father's house are going to be exquisite, because they are being prepared by Jesus Himself! However, the glory of heaven will not be how nice my room is, but how wonderful and glorious my Savior is! Jesus also adds these words of comfort and encouragement, "I will come again and will take you to myself." This is a wonderful hope for us!

The exclusivity of the Christian faith has been much maligned particularly as relativism has swept our modern culture. However, the reason for being exclusive is not to make much of ourselves, but rather to believe what Jesus Himself said, "I am the way, the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." Jesus is the only way.

Do you love Jesus? I mean really, really love Him? I am amazed at how so many people claim to love Jesus and yet they ignore the things that He Himself taught! Jesus said that if you love Him you will prove it by the way that you keep/obey His commandments! Jesus repeated this reality several times in this passage (14:15,21,23,24). The depth of our love for Christ is measured by our faithfulness if obeying His commandments!

The illustration of the vine and branches is powerful. So many implications for our lives! How dependent must we be! Without Him we can do nothing (15:5). If we are attached to the Vine, then we will bear fruit and thereby prove to be His disciples (15:8). This is the way for us to glorify the Father. This is why He chose us (15:16), so that we would bear fruit that remains. We who are His servants, though He calls us "friends" (15:15), are to be faithful workers bearing fruit for the Kingdom.

It is better to have the indwelling Holy Spirit than the physical presence of Jesus. That is was Jesus said! “Nevertheless, I tell you the truth: it is to your advantage that I go away, for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you” (16:7). This is not the way we think. We tend to think that if we could only have Jesus right here with us, things would be different…better. But Jesus said that it is more advantageous for us if His physical presence is gone and the Spirit comes to be with us. Amazing! What we have in the indwelling Holy Spirit is better than the physical presence of Christ! Maybe that is the case because the physical presence of Christ could not be with every believer at every moment due to the physical limitations that Christ endures being in physical form; whereas the Holy Spirit does indwell every believer in every location on this earth. Or maybe it is because the indwelling Holy Spirit does for us what the physical presence of Christ was never intended to do. Either way, we are better off now because we have the indwelling Holy Spirit!

Day 36 - John 12-13

2009-10-12T22:18:00.000-07:00

Chapter 12 contains the conclusion of Jesus public teaching ministry. It begins with the symbolic anointing of Jesus' feet in preparation for His burial, which is just days away. Judas' objection is quite hypocritical. He didn't care for the poor (vs6). He was just putting on a display of self-righteousness.

It is interesting that the chief priests were seeking not only to kill Jesus, but Lazarus as well. We saw in the last chapter how Jesus powerfully raised Lazarus from the dead. Because of that "sign," many were believing in Jesus. This caused the jealousy of the chief priests to seek to put an end to the "believing" by removing the one who's life pointed to the power of Jesus. However, wouldn't that have been a bit self-defeating? Hadn't Jesus already shown that He had the power to resurrect Lazarus? If the chief priests had put Lazarus to death, what made them think that Jesus wouldn't have just resurrected him again, with the result of even more people believing?! This just shows how blinding sin is in the human heart!

Vs20-50 record the final public address of Jesus (chapters 13-17 are in private with His disciples). In this address, we see the glory of Jesus Christ predicted in His coming death. He speaks of being "lifted up." To "lift up" can refer to being put in a place of prominence, but it can also refer to being lifted up on a cross to die. The reality is that both of these definitions apply with Jesus. He was lifted up to die and in doing so, He was lifted up to the prominent place of being the Savior of the World! When He was lifted up, He drew all men to Himself--not just Jews, but Gentiles as well. In the middle of this teaching from Jesus, John puts in an aside (vs37-43). In this aside, he quotes from Isaiah, showing how Jesus fulfilled these prophesies. The powerful point in this comes in vs41 - "Isaiah said these things because he saw his glory and spoke of him." It is powerful because the passages in Isaiah that John quotes are attributed to Yahweh. Therefore, vs41 tells us that Jesus is Yahweh in the flesh. Another extremely clear proof of the Deity of Jesus Christ!

Vs42-43 are really tragic. There were some of the religious leaders that did believe in Jesus, but they did not admit this publicly because "they loved the glory that comes from man more than the glory that comes from God." How sad! Yet how many times do we commit this same sin?! Let us not be paralyzed by the fear of man. Let us be liberated by the fear of God!

Chapter 13 takes us into the final private teaching of Jesus with His disciples. He begins this time with a wonderful display of humility. He washed the feet of His disciples. This was the task of a lowly servant, and yet the Lord of the universe took it upon Himself. The primary point that Jesus was demonstrating was humility, and in the middle of it He gives a lesson on forgiveness of sin. In response to Peter's request to have a bath, as it were, Jesus says that one who is clean needs only to wash his feet. The picture is that once a person has been regenerated initially ("washed"), then the continued cleansing from sin that he needs is the daily forgiveness of sins that he commits along the way ("washing his feet"). The beauty of this picture is that both types of forgiveness come from the same source - our Savior, Jesus Christ!

The "new commandment" that Jesus gives (vs34-35) is not a completely "new" commandment. The command to love one another surfaces throughout the OT. The newness of this commandment is the "pattern" for loving one another. In the OT, the Jews were commanded to love their neighbor "as yourself." Here Jesus says, "love another as I have loved you." So, the newness is that no longer is it "enough" to love your neighbor as yourself, but now the bar is raised. You are to love others the way Christ has loved you! Truly, we must have God's grace to be able to obey such a command! And when we do, we prove to be His disciples (vs35).

Day 35 - John 10-11

2009-10-11T22:14:00.000-07:00

What a wonderful Shepherd we have! Jesus is the Good Shepherd. He calls His sheep by name and leads them (10:3). He knows His sheep (10:14). But most importantly He lays down His life for the sheep (10:11,15,17,18). It was this laying down of His life that secured the abundant life that He gives to His sheep (10:10). In the midst of all this there is another favorite verse of mine - vs16. The "other" sheep that Jesus has that are not of this fold are the Gentiles - that's me! I love how He says, "I must bring them also."

The words of Jesus in 10:27-30 have been the ground of assurance for many. It is clear that once you become a sheep, you remain a sheep. No one can remove you from this safe haven in the hands of Christ and the Father. While these words are comforting, they have also proved to be quite controversial, both in Jesus' day and until the present day. For in these verses, Jesus claims to be "one" with the Father. As much as some would like for us to think that this "oneness" was merely a oneness in purpose and not a oneness in nature, the people who actually heard Jesus' words were not confused about what Jesus was claiming. They picked up stones to stone Him because He had claimed to be God (10:33)! The fact of the matter is that Jesus didn't just claim to be God, He was God, or rather, He IS God! While some would charge me with denying monotheism (the belief that there is only one God), I do believe that there is only one God. I just believe that this one God exists in three persons--Father, Son and Spirit. Whether or not that makes sense, it is clearly what the Bible teaches, and therefore, I will believe it even though it may go beyond the finite limits of human reason!

In the next chapter, we see the divine power of Jesus demonstrated in raising Lazarus from the dead. Just like the last "sign" in chapter 9, Jesus allowed Lazarus to die so that the glory of God could be seen in his subsequent resurrection (vs4). In the midst of being "confronted" by Martha, Jesus gives one of His great "I am" statements. Here He says, "I am the resurrection and the life" (11:25). He has the power of resurrection because He has life within Himself (cf. 5:26). And once again, we see the importance of believing in Him. Faith in Jesus Christ is the only way to be able to die, and yet still live (11:26).

Day 34 - John 8-9

2009-10-10T22:29:00.001-07:00

OK, here's the second post of the day...

John 8 is one of the strongest cases for the oneness of Jesus Christ and the Father. In vs16-17 Jesus' judgment is the same as the Father's. Jesus claims that if you know Him, then you know the Father (vs19). Jesus speaks the same things as the Father (vs28). It is because of this "oneness" that Jesus can say with confident truthfulness, "I always do the things that are pleasing to Him" (vs29). Of course, the most striking statement in this regard comes at the end of the chapter when Jesus says, "Before Abraham was, I AM" (vs58). In this statement, He identified Himself as Yahweh of the OT (cf. Ex. 3:14).

Here again we see the importance of believing in Jesus. If you don't, you will die in your sins (vs24). Some do believe (vs30-31). The result of believing is that you become one of His disciples. Jesus makes it clear what true discipleship looks like. A true disciple abides in His word (vs31). A true disciple is no longer enslaved to sin (vs34-36). A true disciple loves God (vs42). A true disciple keeps His word (vs52).

Chapter 9 contains one of my favorite stories in this Gospel. Jesus and His disciples encounter this man who had been born blind. His disciples wrongly attribute this tragedy to specific, individual sin, but Jesus corrects their thinking--it's about God and His glory (vs2). Jesus then displays the glory of God by healing this blind man. Notice the reactions by different groups of people. The "people" in general were shocked (vs8), curious (vs10), scoffing (vs24-29), disbelieving (vs18), and rejecting (vs34). The Pharisees were divided (vs16): some denied that Jesus could be from God, while others were hinting that there is no way He couldn't be from God. The most interesting reaction is the progressive reaction of the man that was healed. He starts off as an "obeyer" (vs7). Then a mere reporter (vs11,15). Then he becomes more of a bold proclaimer (vs17,25). This leads to an act of defending Jesus (vs30-33). Finally, it is demonstrated that he is a believer and a worshiper (vs38).

It is interesting to me that in this story we see a blind man who is made to see because of the Light, but at the same time, there are "seeing" people who are blinded by the same Light!

Day 33 - John 6-7

2009-10-10T10:50:00.000-07:00

Well, I missed a day. My family spent the entire day at Disneyland yesterday because our annual passes expired today, and we wanted to get one more family day in. So, I will post two days today. Here's the first:

Wow! John 6 is a very powerful chapter. So many wonderful truths to consider. Jesus starts by demonstrating His power and greatness by two more "signs." He uses a young boy's 5 loaves and 2 fish to feed over 5,000 people and has 12 baskets of food left over! Only Jesus can take what you give Him and leave you with more than you started with! He further demonstrated His power not only by walking on water, but also by transporting the disciples and their boat immediately to the shore (6:21).

The reaction of the people is interesting. They are following Jesus because He fed them, not because of who He was (6:23,26). How tragic it is when we only go to Jesus to get our physical needs met and not because of spiritual desperation. Jesus wastes no time in pointing out what they really should be seeking--food that endures to eternal life (6:27).

Jesus listens to these people ask Him several questions, but He never gives them the answer that they are looking for. Instead, He tells them what they really need to know. First, they ask Him what they need to do to do the works (plural) of God. Jesus responds, not by telling them what they must do, but rather by pointing out what the work (singular) of God is--namely, to bring people to faith in Jesus (6:29). Second, they ask Him about the manna that God gave to Israel in the wilderness. Jesus responds by telling them of the true bread that came down from heaven--Himself (6:35). This really confuses them, first because He says that He came down from heaven, but they "know" that He came from His father, Joseph (6:41-42). They are also confused as to how they can literally eat His flesh (6:52). All along, Jesus has been using this imagery of "eating" and "drinking" His flesh and blood to stand for coming to Him to believe in Him (6:29,35,37,40,44,45,47).

All of this was just too much for some. It was a "hard" saying (6:60) and so some left Him (6:66). I love the response of Peter to Jesus' question, "Do you want to go away as well?" Peter says, "Where else can we go? You have the words of eternal life!" This is still true today!

The confusion and disagreement concerning Jesus continues into chapter 7. Some say He is good, while others say He is misleading people (7:12). They wonder how He knows so much since He never attended the religious schools of the day (7:14), and some explain this by accusing Him of being possessed by a demon (7:20). Some believed (7:31), while others sought to have Him arrested (7:30,32). Jesus once again makes a startling claim (7:37-38)--full satisfaction for those who come to Him by faith. The turmoil among the people really hits a fevered pitch. "He's a Prophet." "He's the Christ." "He' not the Christ." "None of the Pharisees believe in Him." What is interesting is that they all saw the same things. They all heard the same things, yet some believed and other did not. This just highlights all the more how necessary the work of God (see 6:29) is in the lives of people.

Day 32 - John 4-5

2009-10-08T22:16:00.000-07:00

Chapter 4 records the meeting between Jesus and the woman of Samaria. It is interesting to me how easily Jesus is misunderstood. When Jesus offered the woman "living water" she wanted it so that she wouldn't have to burden herself by coming continually to the well to get water (vs15). Jesus ignores her request in order to reveal His greatness to her. Soon she realizes that she is in the presence of a "prophet" (vs19). So, she asks a controversial question regarding the proper place of worship. Instead of answering her question about the place of worship, He teaches her (and us!) about the nature of true worship. It is in spirit and truth. The main point of this teaching is that worship is not relegated to a place, but should be encompassing all of life! Jesus also teaches the necessity of "seeker-sensitive" worship. Of course, in this case God is the seeker (vs23), and therefore we should be sensitive to the worship that pleases Him! The aftermath of this encounter is truly amazing. Here is this terribly sinful woman bearing witness about Jesus, the Messiah! What's even more amazing is that people believed her (vs39). Many more also believed because of the word of Jesus Himself (vs41).

This chapter also includes another miracle of Jesus--the healing of the official's son. What's interesting is that the Apostle John never calls these works of Jesus "miracles." He calls them "signs" (if your version uses the word "miracles," it is not the best translation of this Greek word). What is the significance of a "sign"? It points to something other than itself! Think about this. When you see a sign, you think of some other greater reality. When Jesus did these miraculous "signs" He did them not to call attention to the sign itself, but so that they would point to the greater reality--His power and glory! As we read about these signs, let us beware not to be more enthralled with what Jesus did than we are with who Jesus is!

In chapter 5, Jesus gets Himself "in trouble" with the religious leaders of the day. First, He heals someone on the Sabbath Day and tells that person to carry his bed (vs8), something that would have been prohibited on the Sabbath. Second, He claims that God is His "Father" making Himself equal with God (vs18). He doesn't do anything to get out of "trouble," but instead, He gets in deeper and deeper because what follows is just a clearer admission of "oneness" with the Father. He does the same things as the Father (vs19. He deserves the same honor as the Father (vs23). He has life in Himself (this is a claim of self-sufficient self-existence) just like the Father (vs26). What is amazing to me is that this teaching and these claims of Jesus got Him in so much trouble with the Pharisees because they knew that He was claiming to be God, but yet today, so many people of false religions preach that Jesus was not God and never claimed to be God!

I'll close with a few miscellaneous observations. 5:20 says that the Father "loves" the Son. This word "love" translates the Greek word "phileo" which so many preachers say is a lesser form of love than "agape," yet it is used of the love of the Father to the Son. These two words are different from one another, but we need to be careful not to put one over the other as being more valuable. 5:39 - The Scriptures are the place to go to find life. The reason this is so is that it is there that Jesus is revealed--the One who gives life. 5:45 is a powerful condemnation of the Pharisees. The thing that they had set their hope on was the very thing that was condemning them!

Day 31 - John 1-3

2009-10-07T22:24:00.000-07:00

Well, we've finished 1/3 of the NT and all three of the synoptic Gospels. Today, we start the Gospel of John. This is significantly different than the first three Gospels. Some events are repeated, but most of this Gospel is unique.

There is so much that could be said about these three chapters, but I'll try to summarize their contents by pointing out some general themes.

The supremacy of Jesus is clearly the theme of all of the NT, the Gospels in particular, but the Gospel of John just might have the strongest emphasis of this theme than any other Gospel. This theme is seen in the eternality of Jesus (i.e. He has always been). In 1:1 He is the eternal Word who has been from the beginning. Later in vs30, John the Baptist describes Him as being "before" him. This of course doesn't make sense from a physical standpoint seeing that John the Baptist was born before Jesus. It must then be referring to the fact that Jesus, as the second Person of the Trinity, has always been. The supremacy of Christ is also seen in the titles that are given to Him. He is the Word (1:1,14), God (1:1), only Son (1:14), the Lamb of God (1:29), Messiah (1:41), and Son of God (1:49). Some of these titles continue to be used of Him throughout the book. The supremacy of Christ is also seen in what He does: He creates (1:3), He gives life and light (1:4), He gives grace and truth (1:17), He makes the Father known (1:18), He takes away the sin of the world (1:29), He baptizes with the Spirit (1:33), He turns water into wine (2:6-11), and He saves (3:17).

It is because of this supremacy that we should be diligent in making Him known in this world. John the Baptist was a "witness" to the supremacy of Christ. Six times in chapter one John bears witness of Christ. He was pointing others to Him. Andrew and Philip did the same thing. After meeting Jesus, Andrew went and found his brother, Peter, and brought him to Jesus (1:41-42). Philip went and found Nathanael and told him about Jesus (1:45). This is the natural reaction after a person meets Jesus--he wants others to know about Him as well!

Another important theme that gets repeated throughout this Gospel is "believing." Be on the look-out for how many times this pops up. In these three chapters it is mentioned 11 times! Believing in Jesus is the result of the witness of John (1:7). It gives people the right to be called the children of God (1:12). The disciples believed in Jesus after seeing the miracle of the water turned to wine (2:11), and others believed after seeing other miracles (2:23). Most importantly, believing in Jesus is path to avoid condemnation (3:18) and to receive eternal life (3:15,16,36).

Day 30 - Luke 23-24

2009-10-06T21:56:00.000-07:00

King Herod had long desired to see Jesus (23:8). On the surface this seems admirable. Isn't it a good thing to desire Jesus? Normally, I would say, "Yes," but in this case the answer is, "No." Why did Herod desire to see Jesus? Because he hoped to see Jesus perform a miracle. Even that, in and of itself, is not completely wrong. However, you get the impression that the only reason that King Herod wanted to see Jesus was so that he might be entertained. This is the wrong reason to desire Jesus. This is made clear in that Herod was disappointed with Jesus, He simply didn't answer Herod. Let us desire Jesus for the proper reason and worship and glorify Him even if He doesn't give us what we were expecting!

The thief on the cross seems to be relegated in religious discussions to the lack of the necessity of baptism for salvation. However, there is much to be learned from his interaction with Christ (23:39-43). First, he knew he was a guilty sinner and Christ was innocent. Second, he asked in faith for salvation. Third, his request was granted far beyond what he imagined. He asked if Jesus would "remember him," and Jesus said "you will be with me." He asked that this remembrance take place in the future, "when you come into your kingdom," and Jesus said "Today!" He asked for remembrance in the "kingdom," and Jesus promised him "Paradise." Isn't that just like our Savior, giving us far more than we can ask or even think!

After Jesus' resurrection, there was much confusion (which doesn't really make sense since Jesus had told His disciples that this would happen time and time again). The two on the road to Emmaus were no exception. Jesus' communication with them consisted of connecting the "dots" from the OT revelation (Moses and the Prophets) to the realities of Himself. What wonderful teaching that must have been! When the eyes of these two were opened to understand that Jesus was indeed the one speaking to them, He disappeared. Their reaction wasn't one of amazement that He disappeared, but of astonishment concerning His teaching. Then, notice what they did--they went all the way back to Jerusalem to tell the disciples. It was already late (24:29), but they knew that such wonderful news needed to be delivered. What a wonderful pattern for us to follow--be urgent in spreading the good news about Jesus!

When Jesus appeared to His disciples, after proving to them that He was really there in person (e.g. showing His hands and feet, eating solid food), He opened their minds so that they might understand the Scriptures (once again, another proof of the need for divine illumination). Then, He lays out the Gospel message that these disciples are to be spreading. It consists of the facts of the suffering, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. It also consists of a call to repentance and a promise of forgiveness. Why is it that so many leave out that middle part? They proclaim the vicarious death, triumphant resurrection and loving forgiveness, but so often nothing is said of repentance. Yet, here it is in Christ's final directive to His disciples. Let's not neglect this important aspect of the proclamation of the Gospel!

Day 29 - Luke 21-22

2009-10-05T07:46:00.000-07:00

The story of the widow's offering makes a powerful point - sacrificial giving is not so much about how much you give but about how much you have left over!

Jesus told us in 21:17 that we will be hated by all for His Name's sake. What He is telling us is not just that people won't like us because of our personality, but they will hate us because we are living for the sake of His Name! With that in mind, why do so many so-called Christians spend so much time trying make themselves "likable" by the people of this world? And if the people of this world do "like" you instead of "hate" you, one wonders whether or not you are really living for the sake of His Name! I'm certainly not advocating living in such a way that intentionally provokes others to hate you just to provoke them, but if we are truly living for the sake of Jesus' Name, then it should not surprise us that the people of this world get upset with us.

Jesus' instruction to His disciples to pray that they may not enter into temptation should still ring true for us today. Obviously, Jesus was telling His disciples this because they would be tempted to deny Him (e.g. Peter) and forsake Him in the face of persecution. We will not face exactly what the disciples faced, but we will face temptation! Jesus has given us good instruction in order to strengthen ourselves in the face of temptation--Pray! How important this aspect of our Christian lives is! Pray that you enter not into temptation!

22:61 is rather poignant. Peter has just denied three times that he knew Jesus. The rooster crowed pointing out to Peter that he had done exactly what Jesus said he would do. Then there was the look of Jesus at Peter. What must that look have been like? Was it a look of "see, I told you so"? Was it a look of condemnation? Was it a look of disappointment? Was it a look of compassion? Was it a look of reassuring forgiveness? The Bible doesn't tell us specifically, but I tend to think it was the last two--compassion and forgiveness. If it had been the others, Peter might have had the same reaction as Judas! But instead, Peter's response was one of repentant sorrow. Isn't it the kindness of God that leads us to repentance (Rom. 2:4)?

Day 28 - Luke 19-20

2009-10-04T21:31:00.000-07:00

When I began reading chapter 19, I almost broke out into song, "Zacchaeus was a wee little man...", but I didn't. What I did notice was the way Zacchaeus responded to Jesus--he received Him joyfully (vs6)! The indicator that this receiving was more than a simple reception into the home was demonstrated in the change of heart that Zacchaeus had--he gave away money instead of taking it! This is a picture of true conversion--a changed life!

In the next parable, there is quite a different response to Jesus--rebellious rejection (vs14). What is striking is what happens to these rebellious people in the end--full and final judgment (vs27). How much better it is to submit ourselves to a loving ruler than to reject His rule and suffer for that rejection for eternity!

I've already commented about all of the events/parables of chapter 20 in other posts covering the Gospels of Matthew and Mark. One thing, though, did stick out to me in this chapter and that is the difficulty of understanding Messiah. The Jews knew that a Messiah would come, yet they didn't know it was Jesus. It's clear from this chapter that part of the reason was the irony of His person. He was rejected, yet chosen (vs17). He was David's "son" yet at the same time He was David's "Lord" (vs41-44). These things are quite clear to us as we look back on them, but it is quite understandable why there would be confusion even among those who "knew" the Scriptures. These "ironies" are actually wonderful truths. Jesus was indeed rejected by the religious leaders of that day, yet it was that very rejection that qualified Him to be Messiah and to carry out the purpose of Messiah--a vicarious sacrifice for the sins of His people. Also, Jesus was a "son" of David in that He came into the world through the house and line of David, yet because He was also God in the flesh, He was worthy of being called "Lord" by David in his prophetic Psalms. Both of these are truly beautiful pictures of the wisdom and sovereign plan of God.

Day 27 - Luke 17-18

2009-10-03T21:16:00.000-07:00

What are you to do when your brother sins? Tell someone else about it? Tell the pastor or elder so that they can deal with his sin? NO! You go and rebuke him for his sin! Further, what do you do when he repents? Continue to hold it against him? Refuse to fellowship with such a sinner? NO! You forgive him. What if he continues to sin? Continue to forgive even his imperfect repentance. Isn't this what God does with us? We sin, He convicts, we repent, He forgives. Then the cycle repeats. What a patient, longsuffering God we have! We must follow His example and be forgiving, even when we see imperfect repentance!

Do you ever get a big head because of all that you do for God? Do ever look at others with contempt who aren't doing what they're supposed to do while you strive to obey God? If so, Jesus' message in 17:7-10 is for you. When you do what you've been commanded to do, you don't get "brownie points." You simply fulfill the obligations of a bondservant of God! We are for too easily impressed with our own performance. We ought to look at ourselves as unworthy servants, even when we've done what we've been commanded to do!

The parable of the persistent widow (18:1-8) argues from the lesser to the greater. If an unjust judge can grant justice to a persistent widow, how much more will a righteous God give justice to His children when they ask Him?!

Are you a Pharisee? Are you puffed up in your self-righteousness externalism? How we need to have the attitude of the tax collector! Humble repentance is what God desires from us, not proud self-righteousness. The ironic thing in this account is that the Pharisee thanks God that he is not like the tax collector when that is exactly what he should be like!

Day 26 - Luke 15-16

2009-10-02T15:11:00.000-07:00

The three parables in chapter 15 are very precious to me. They are given in response to the Pharisees' objection to Jesus' receiving of sinners. The first question that comes to my mind is "Why were sinners drawing near to hear Jesus?" It seems to me that the reason is that the message of Jesus was a message of hope - "Come to me, and I will forgive your sins!" Who would respond to such a call, but those who acknowledge their own sinfulness! The second question is this, "What is the source of the joy that comes in response to the lost sheep, lost coin, and prodigal son when they are all found?", and "to what is the corresponding joy in heaven referring?" The joy in the first parable is from the shepherd who found the sheep. The joy in the second parable is the woman who found the coin. The joy in the third parable is from the father who received his son back again. Many would say that the corresponding joy in heaven is from the angels, citing 15:10; however, look at vs7. It merely says that there will be joy in heaven. Also, look at vs10. It says that there is joy before the angels of God. If we take our clue from the parables just mentioned, the one represented by the shepherd, woman and father would be God! I would submit to you that the joy in heaven over one sinner that repents is the joy that comes from God Himself! How much more precious is it to know that God rejoiced over your conversion and not just the angels. Of course, I do believe that the angels rejoice as well. Why would they not? How inappropriate would it be for God to be rejoicing in heaven in the presence of the angels and yet the angels remain unmoved?!

One other thought about the closing statement of vs7. It is not as if there are people in this world that do not need to repent. God commands all men everywhere to repent (Acts 17:30). The point is that there are plenty of self-righteous people (e.g. the Pharisees) that think that they don't need to repent! Woe to those who feel that they are "good enough" to please God!

Chapter 16 closes with the story of the rich man and Lazarus. I say a "story" and not a "parable" because first of all the Bible doesn't call it a parable and second of all parables do not refer to people by proper names. So, we can take this account of the rich man and Lazarus to be an actual event in history. Therefore, hell is a real place and heaven is real as well. Once you are in one place, there is no getting to the other (vs26). There is torment in hell and comfort in heaven (vs25). These are all significant truths for us to consider, but the most important part about this story is Abraham's answer to the rich man's request that Lazarus go back and warn the man's family. Abraham's answer is not just "no." He says that there is something sufficient to warn the people of this life to flee the judgment of the life to come that is more powerful than if a dead man were raised to warn them. That "thing" is the Word of God, here referred to as "Moses and the Prophets." The Word of God is sufficient for many things, but the most important of all is its power to convince men of their sin and show them the way of salvation! This is what we must hold up to sinners as we plead with them to repent and come to Jesus Christ!

Day 25 - Luke 13-14

2009-10-01T22:08:00.000-07:00

Chapter 13 opens with an interesting teaching from Jesus. The basic premise is this - tragedies happen, people die, and if you don't repent you will perish as well. Some years ago someone wrote a book entitled, "Why Bad Things Happen to Good People." Apparently, Jesus would rather have the title read, "Why Bad Things Don't Happen to All Bad People." What is clear from this text is the mercy of God. God is longsuffering. He is allowing time for people to repent of their sin before the final judgment. The call to repent is clear. The themes of the mercy and patience of God with sinners continues in the next parable of the fig tree as the owner of the tree allows time for the fig tree to produce fruit after cultivation. God, thank you for your mercy! May your goodness lead many to repentance and subsequent fruit-bearing!

After the insight Jesus gives on the invitation to the nation of Israel to come and their rejection of the invitation at the end of chapter 13, the next chapter has a parable of the great banquet. The picture couldn't be clearer. The first ones invited to the banquet were the Jews, yet they did not come. The ones who were invited later are the Gentiles--that's me and probably you too!

Again, Jesus points His disciples to the great cost of following Him. In this section, Jesus uses some pretty controversial words. Whoever does not "hate" his family cannot be His disciple. Of course, Jesus is not advocating "hate" in the sense that we generally think of it, but rather He is saying that the one who would follow Him must be ready to put Him first, far above any other relationship. He must be supreme!

Day 24 - Luke 11-12

2009-09-30T22:34:00.000-07:00

We have a good God! Luke 11:9-13 bears that out clearly. What dear promises these are! Ask, seek and knock, and you will have, find and it will be opened unto you. Ask the Father for the Holy Spirit and He will give it to you! God is so good to His people.

There is another reference to the Kingdom of God here (11:20). Yesterday, we noted that one of the markers of the Kingdom was the exaltation of Jesus. Here, we see that the Kingdom is characterized by the power of God over evil. Wherever you see God triumphing over the powers of evil, there you have the Kingdom of God!

11:28 - Blessed are those who hear the word of God and keep it. Here is the road to true happiness - obey the Word of God!

Covetousness is an awful thing! 12:13 gives a good example of how ugly the covetous heart can be. This is truly something against which we should be on guard (12:15). This verse also demonstrates how short-sighted we are when we do covet things - life does not consist in the abundance of possessions! The parable that follows this teaching of Jesus should be very convicting for us all! How we need to guard against storing up things on this earth. We need to be about Kingdom work and its corresponding treasure! How much more sweet it is to be "rich toward God"!

Day 23 - Luke 9-10

2009-09-29T17:08:00.001-07:00

This is the third time that we've read the account of the Transfiguration of Jesus Christ. Each time (Matt. 17; Mark 9) the account is preceded by the statement of Jesus that "there are some standing here who will not taste death until they see the kingdom of God." What else can this mean other than the fact that the Transfiguration was to be somewhat of a manifestation of the Kingdom of God. With that in mind, what was it about this event that is typical of the Kingdom of God? Here is what I believe: the Kingdom of God is manifested wherever Jesus is exalted. The whole idea of the Kingdom of God can be a bit confusing because some aspects of it are understood to be future, whereas there are other aspects that are present right now! This has been described by some as the "already but not yet" understanding of the Kingdom. The "already" part is put on display in our lives when we exalt Jesus Christ by our words and by our actions. May His Kingdom come in my life and yours!

One thing that jumped out at me in these two chapters was cost of discipleship. Right off the bat, Jesus tells His disciples that He is commissioning for service to "pack lightly." This implies that the disciple of Jesus is not one who holds onto the things of this world. He lives a "trimmed-down" type of lifestyle without all of the comforts of this world. In 9:23-25, Jesus describes the life of discipleship as one that is characterized by cross-bearing and life-losing. In 9:48, Jesus tells His disciples not to aspire to "greatness" but rather to "leastness"! Jesus Himself faced the rejection of the Samaritans in 9:51-56. Then, in the closing verses of chapter 9, Jesus tells three would-be followers to count the cost and come and follow Him with singleness of heart. Even chapter 10 points to the high cost of discipleship. Jesus warns His sent ones in vs3 that they are going out as sheep in the midst of wolves. In other words, it's dangerous to follow Jesus. And in the parable of the Good Samaritan, Jesus describes the one who would be neighbor to those around him as one who gives sacrificially to meet the needs of others (10:34-35). But, in the midst of all the talk of how much it costs to follow Jesus, reward is mentioned time and again. 9:1-2 - supernatural power was given to do the work. 9:24 - the one who loses his life for Jesus' sake, saves it! 9:48 - the least is great! 9:62 - when you follow Jesus with singleness of heart you demonstrate that you are fit for the Kingdom! 10:17-20 - there was success in the ministry of the 72 sent ones. In addition to that, their names were written in heaven! With all of these benefits and rewards, is the cost of discipleship really that high? This is why someone like Hudson Taylor could say after a lifetime of self-denying service for Christ, "I never made a sacrifice."

Day 22 - Luke 7-8

2009-09-28T21:09:00.000-07:00

Jesus' compassion shines through in the account of His raising the son of the widow at Nain. Being a widow, this woman would have had no one else to take care her but her son. There was no Medicare in those days. After her current monies ran out, she would have had to resort to begging. This woman didn't ask Jesus for anything. He simply saw her need, was moved with compassion and showed mercy to the woman by raising her son from the dead. The result was that the people glorified God!

Jesus was a friend of sinners (7:34). That means I qualify! I meet the qualifications to have Jesus as my friend! It's not just that I am a sinner, but that I readily admit it! And as a sinner, I acknowledge my desperate need of a friend like Jesus! "Jesus! what a Friend for sinners! Jesus! Lover of my soul; Friends may fail me, foes assail me, He, my Savior, makes me whole." (J. Wilbur Chapman). In light of this, I love the parable that Jesus tells at the end of chapter 7. He who has been forgiven much, loves much!

Day 21 - Luke 5-6

2009-09-27T22:02:00.000-07:00

The opening story of chapter 5 has always intrigued me. Did Jesus just know where the large school of fish was? Or did He sovereignly guide them to the place where the nets would be let down? Or (this is my favorite possibility!) did He simply create the fish in the nets after they were let down into the water? In the end, it really doesn't matter which explanation is true. The point is that Jesus is exalted! The pinnacle of the story is vs11, "They left everything and followed Him." This shows the supremacy of Christ above all things, and in some ways is the pattern that we must follow as well. When we come to Christ, we leave our sin, our old way of thinking, our former loves and desires, etc. This may seem like a high cost, but when we consider what we get in return (i.e. Christ), can you really call this a "sacrifice"?

I've commented before about following the pattern of Jesus in prayer. 6:12-16 tells us that before Jesus called the 12 apostles, He spent the entire night in prayer. How much more should we be dependent on our God by means of prayer before we make any decision, whether major or minor!

There are interesting "woes" in chapter 6 from Jesus. He pronounces a woe on those who are rich, full now, laugh now and when people speak well of you. Here are my thoughts on these. Rich - those who only have earthly riches will be eternally poor, therefore woe to them. Full now - those who know fullness (whether financial, physical, emotional, etc.) only in this life will spend eternity suffering in a God-less emptiness, therefore woe to them. Laugh now - those who laugh now when they should be in sorrow unto repentance will experience eternal sorrow in being separated from the only true source of lasting joy--God! Therefore, woe to them! Well-spoken of - those who only have praise from men in this life will regretfully never hear the "well-done" from God, therefore woe to them! This is a call to us to extend our point of view beyond this life and consider the life to come.

6:38 has been quite an encouragement to me in my life. No matter how much you give, you can never out-give God! What a reassuring promise!

6:46 is quite the indictment, isn't it? The point is this - if we do not do the things that He tells us, then we demonstrate that in reality He is not "Lord" of our lives. If He is not our Lord, then we are not His people. Once again, here is a warning to those who would profess to be a Christian, yet do not have the proof of their genuineness in their lives.

Day 20 - Luke 3-4

2009-09-26T18:10:00.001-07:00

The preaching of John the Baptist was a call to repentance. Not only was it a call to repentance, but it was a call to bear fruits in keeping with repentance (3:8). The people asked what those fruits were (3:10). He then lays out a list of things for specific groups of people to do. In general terms he tells them that the fruit of repentance is generosity, integrity, meekness and contentment (3:11-14). We must be careful to note that these are not the path to repentance (i.e. salvation), but they are the path that follows repentance. They are the fruit, not the root!

Luke's genealogy of Jesus is quite different from Matthew's. Matthew started with Abraham and descended to Jesus, pointing out some interesting connections along the way (see comments here). Luke starts with Jesus and in rapid fashion ascends all the way back to Adam. Some say the reason for the difference is that Matthew was written to the Jews to present Jesus as the King of the Jews, hence the direct connection with Abraham. Whereas Luke was written to Greeks to present Jesus as the perfect man, hence the connection all the way back to Adam, the first man. Once again, I'll let you weigh in with your thoughts on these differences.

The power of Jesus over temptation lies not only in His perfection as being the Son of God, but also in the weapon that he used. It is the same weapon that we have--the Word of God (4:1-12)! The power of Jesus continues to be put on display in ways that are certainly beyond us (e.g. healing, controlling demons). One of my favorite displays of power is when the people are trying to take Jesus and cast Him off the edge of a cliff and Jesus simply passed through their midst and then went away (4:30)! If there is "instant replay" in heaven, this is one that I would love to see!

Day 19 - Luke 1-2

2009-09-25T21:37:00.000-07:00

As we begin the Gospel of Luke, since this is one of the Synoptic Gospels as well, I will again attempt to limit my comments to that which is specific to Luke so that I don't just keep on repeating myself!

These opening chapters are familiar enough to most of us and so some comments will be things that we've all heard before, but some things jumped out at me that I hadn't noticed before, at least not in this way.

The conceptions of both John the Baptist and Jesus were miraculous, but they were miraculous in two distinct ways. Elizabeth conceived when she was both barren and past the age of child-bearing, yet she still conceived by the natural means of marital relations. Whereas Mary conceived as a virgin, and remained a virgin after conception because her child was conceived in her by the supernatural means of the Holy Spirit. "Nothing will be impossible with God" (1:37)!

Many want to elevate the virgin Mary to some sort of super-spiritual status. Truly, she was a special woman, but in many ways she was just like any of us. She struggled with fear (1:29). She needed a Savior (1:47). She had to submit to the Law of God (2:22). She indeed was "highly favored" by God (1:28), but only "the child" that would come from her would be called "holy" (1:35). Let's be careful to give respect to Mary for her willingness to be used by God, but let us be careful not to worship her. We must worship the Lord our God alone!

The declaration of the angel to the shepherds when he announced the birth of Jesus, contained three titles of Jesus that are very significant (2:11). Savior - He earned this title by giving His life on the behalf of His people. Christ - He was the anointed one! The one chosen by God the Father to redeem fallen humanity. Lord - He was God in the flesh. The Apostle Paul often used all three of these titles in referring to Jesus as "our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ."

The response to all of this is interesting. The shepherds run immediately to see Jesus, and then they return glorifying and praising God for what they had seen. Mary treasured up all of these things in her heart. Others wondered at what they had been told. May we, after pondering the greatness of our Lord and Savior, burst forth into proclamation of His glory to those who are around us!

The last thing that I will point out is the work of the Holy Spirit in these chapters. He filled John the Baptist from the womb (1:15). He caused the conception of Jesus within Mary (1:35). He filled Elizabeth to proclaim a blessing on Mary (1:41). He filled Zacharias enabling him to prophesy (1:67). He was on Simeon who was eagerly waiting for Messiah to come (2:25) because the Holy Spirit told him he wouldn't die until He came (2:26), and He directed him to come to the temple (2:27). The Holy Spirit of God is active in this world. May we be sensitive to His working and leading in our own lives!

Day 18 - Mark 15-16

2009-09-24T22:57:00.000-07:00

The account of the "trial" of Jesus has an interesting foreshadowing of the future significance of the death of Christ. Pilate wanted to release Jesus, but the crowd demanded Barabbas. Barabbas was guilty of many crimes, one of which being murder (15:7). Jesus was innocent, though falsely accused. So, the one who deserved physical death was allowed to have his physical life prolonged, while the one who deserved to live was sentenced to physical death in the place of the guilty one. Likewise, we who deserve spiritual death can receive eternal life because the one, in whom was life, died in our place.

Another irony is found in 15:29. The fact is that Jesus' "temple" was being destroyed, and He would "rebuild" it in three days!

There is debate as to whether the last 12 verses of chapter 16 were part of the original Gospel of Mark. As such, we must be careful not to build any doctrinal case on things that are recorded only here and nowhere else in the Bible (for instance, the handling of snakes). However, there is a statement that has caused some controversy in 16:16 concerning the erroneous teaching of baptismal regeneration. What is interesting to note is that the mention of baptism is only in the first part of the statement regarding salvation, but is not in the second part regarding condemnation. The point is this - baptism is a necessary part of the obedience that follows salvation, but is not necessary to avoid ultimate condemnation. The key component in receiving salvation or avoiding condemnation is believing in Jesus Christ - that is what is clear not only from this passage but also from the rest of Scripture.

I would be remiss if I closed comments on the Gospel of Mark and did not make mention of the resurrection of Jesus. This doctrine is so central to the Christian faith that I cannot refrain from pointing out its significance. The resurrection of our Lord occurred on "the first day of the week" (16:2), and that is the very reason that we Christians gather together for corporate worship on the first day of the week - Sunday! In actuality, it is not only on Easter, or Resurrection Sunday, that we celebrate our resurrected Lord and Savior, but every Sunday is a celebration of the victory of Christ over sin, death, hell and the grave! I love the triumphant words of 16:6 - "He has risen; he is not here." This is the Christian hope - that because our Savior was raised from the dead, so too shall we! All glory to the risen Savior, our Lord Jesus Christ!

Day 17 - Mark 12-14

2009-09-23T17:59:00.000-07:00

After Jesus told the parable of the tenants, the Pharisees did have some insight. They perceived that the parable was about them (12:12). Perception isn't enough! It wasn't enough that the Pharisees understood that Jesus was talking about them in the parable. They should have responded in repentance, but instead they plotted as to how they could get Jesus arrested. The same is true with us. As we read God's Word, it is not enough for us to understand what we read. We must also act in accordance with what we understand. Without both perception and obedience, our perception does nothing but condemn us. For instance, just a few paragraphs later, Jesus taught that the greatest command was to love God with all your being and the second is to love your neighbor as yourself (12:29-31). It easy enough to understand what that is talking about, but we must also see to it that we submit ourselves to those commands in how we live our lives or else our understanding is pointless!

In the Olivet Discourse, Jesus warns that "many will come in my name, saying, ‘I am he!’ and they will lead many astray" (13:6). Later, in vs22, He continues to warn about false christs and false prophets. This highlights the need for discernment among God's people. We must test all things and people according to the revealed will of God. One of those tests is when someone sets a date for the return of Christ. Jesus very plainly teaches that "concerning that day or that hour, no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father" (13:32). It is by this clear teaching that we can rightfully judge those who play around with foolish date-setting.

Jesus' prayer in Gethsemane (14:36) should be the pattern for all our praying. First, it is OK to ask the Father for the things that we desire, whether they be things that we don't have that we desire or things that are happening to us that we wish were not. Second, all our requests must be made in submission to the sovereign will of God in our lives. The reason for our submission is that God knows us and our needs far better than we do. Therefore, He is much better equipped to give us the things that we truly need to change us and mold us into people who reflect His glory. He is wise enough to know what we need and good enough to give it to us. He is also wise enough to know how much we can endure and compassionate enough to give us the grace to endure to the end! Father, not my will but Your will be done!

Peter's response to his denial of Jesus is also instructive for us. He demonstrated a godly sorrow that led to repentance. How do you react when the depth of your sin is made manifest to you? Are you filled with sorrow? Or do you simply shrug it off and go on with life? If there is sorrow in your heart, we must take care that this sorrow does not persist into despair. For what we will read in the next chapter gives us hope for forgiveness from sin. The sin over which Peter wept is the sin for which Jesus gave His life! The sin over which we should weep is not sin over which we should despair. Jesus Christ endured the judgment of that sin as He gave Himself up for us! Hallelujah! What a Savior!

Day 16 - Mark 9-11

2009-09-22T16:00:00.000-07:00

As we begin the second half of Mark, the gospel writer records the account of the Transfiguration of Jesus. Peter's rash words are met with the correcting words from heaven. These words from the mouth of the Father set forth the supremacy of Jesus Christ. This is something that is good for us to keep in mind. Every era has its "poster boys" as it were. The OT had its prophets (Moses, Elijah, etc.). The NT had its apostles (Peter, Paul, etc.). I could continue to list giants of the faith from the early church fathers to the reformers to the present day. While God has given His people great men through whom He has wrought mighty things, no one compares to Jesus Christ! He is supreme! We must be careful how much "stock" we put in the frail human vessels that God chooses to use in great ways.

When Jesus was talking with the man whose son was possessed by a demon, the man cried out, "I believe; help my unbelief!" (9:24). This man had the right perspective. If anyone was going to help this man believe it was going to be Jesus Christ. Likewise, we too must come to Christ if our faith would be strengthened.

9:42-50 lays out Jesus' plan for dealing with sin in the life of a believer. His plan is one that is characterized by radical amputation! What have you done to resist sin's power in your own life? What have you amputated recently? When our desire for holiness surpasses our desires for anything else, radical things happen in order to maintain such holiness!

The rich young man in chapter 10 was the typical self-righteous Jew. He thought that he had done everything necessary to keep the Law because he had done externally and by letter what the Law demanded. In typical form, Jesus goes to the heart. He points out that this man had an idol of the heart and therefore had broken the very first of the Ten Commandments. He had a higher love and worship for his things than he had for God. We too must guard our hearts from idols and understand that true obedience to God is first of all heart obedience!

When James and John asked Jesus to sit beside Him in His glory, it caused quite a stir among the disciples (pride always does!). Jesus gave His disciples a lesson in Kingdom living. He started by pointing out that His way is not like the way of the surrounding world ("It shall not be so among you."). The world promotes the self-assured, climb-over-anyone type of people. Jesus says that the ones promoted in His Kingdom serve! They are servants and even bond-slaves. The greatest servant of all was Jesus Christ, and He is the greatest in the Kingdom!

Day 15 - Mark 7-8

2009-09-21T18:01:00.000-07:00

Well, technically I missed a day since I'm not getting around to posting until after midnight on Day 15. I actually started this earlier today, but I got interrupted by several things that pushed this post onto the back-burner. So, due to the lateness of the hour and the fact that so much of these chapters are pretty much identical to what occurs in Matthew (and I've already commented on these sections there), this post should be a bit shorter...we'll see!

One difference from Matthew in this section is that it seems that Jesus spends a bit more time pointing out the hypocrisy of the Pharisees. They were so intent on keeping the letter of the Law that they worked out some "loop-holes" to actually bypass the spirit of the Law. Jesus points out rather strongly that the point is the heart. How we need to focus on our own hearts and pray that God would change our hearts to be in line with what He desires!

In the account of the healing of the deaf and mute man, I could not help but see the parallel between the that physical condition and the spiritual condition of unbelievers - they are spiritually deaf to the truth of God and spiritually mute with regard to speaking the truth of God. In both physical and spiritual maladies, Jesus has the power to open ears and loosen tongues!

Peter's roller-coaster ride is nowhere more apparent than in 8:29-33. He has just answered correctly that Jesus is Messiah--the Christ! And not 2 seconds later, seemingly, he is rebuking Jesus for saying that He will do what Messiah came to do! What a reminder of how weak we really are and how dependent we need to be on the grace of God for consistent righteous living!

Day 14 - Mark 4-6

2009-09-20T22:21:00.000-07:00

Chapter 4 contains several "Kingdom" parables. One that was not recorded in Matthew (or Luke or John for that matter) is the parable of the growing seed (vs26-29). It reminds me of what I'm to be doing as a preacher of the Word of God. I just plant. I plant by preaching the truths of God's Word. If any "fruit" comes from the seed that I plant, it is because God caused it to take root, grow and then produce fruit. It is also a good reminder to me that it often takes time before that which is planted bears fruit. A much needed reminder to me for patience in the ministry of the Word!

In chapter 5, the account of the demon-possessed man is recounted. Once again, it is instructive for us to note that this powerful demon, Legion, could not do anything without the permission of Jesus. Also, the result of the spiritual cleansing of this man is that he went out telling others about what Jesus had done for him. This is the pattern that we should be pursuing in our own lives as well.

As I was reading the account of the resurrection of Jairus' daughter, one statement of Jesus leaped out at me - "Do not fear, only believe." What struck me was this - the opposite of fear is faith. It is impossible to be afraid and have a robust faith in God at the same time. Fear and faith are mutually exclusive. Therefore, when I'm struggling with fear, what I'm really struggling with is a lack of faith in my all-powerful, all-sovereign and all-good God!

Just one comment from chapter 6. When Jesus commissioned His disciples to go and do the work of His ministry, the content of their message was the same as the preaching of John the Baptist (1:4) and the preaching of Jesus (1:14). It was a call to repentance (6:12). Why is it that so many "preachers" today have a hard time with that content? Why do they shy away from confronting people with their sin? Isn't sin the reason for repentance? What do today's "preachers" think? Are they smarter than John the Baptist? Than Jesus' disciples? Than Jesus Himself? I, for one, am going to stick with the wisdom of Jesus and call people to repentance from sin and faith in Jesus Christ!

Day 13 - Mark 1-3

2009-09-19T21:52:00.000-07:00

Today, we begin the book of Mark. This is one of the synoptic Gospels, meaning that it tells the story of Jesus from basically the same standpoint as Matthew and Luke. Therefore, we will be reading a lot of the same types of things in this book as we did in Matthew. Bearing that in mind, I'll try to limit my comments to things that I didn't point out as we went through Matthew so as to avoid redundancy. Mark is certainly a distinct book. Its character is much different that Matthew. He is much more succinct. Also, he moves from one vignette to another quite rapidly. This is pronounced by the repetition of the word "immediately." Now, let's dive in!

There is no genealogy recorded in Mark. Many commentators feel that the reason behind this is that the purpose of Mark was to present Jesus as a servant, and no one really cares about the family line of a servant. You can weigh in with your own thoughts on that one.

John the Baptist was the one to prepare the way for the Messiah. To do that, he preached a message of repentance. Certainly, it is a humble and contrite heart that is best suited to receive the Savior! And humility is just what John demonstrated. He noted that he was not worthy even to loosen the strap of Jesus' sandal (this was the job of a household servant - to remove the sandals in order to wash the feet of the master of the house).

Jesus' authority is again pointed out with regularity. His authority over demons amazes the people. What amazes, and also comforts, me is that the demons couldn't even speak without permission from Jesus (1:34)! What have I to fear?!

When the men brought the paralyzed man to Jesus in chapter 2, it says that Jesus "saw" their faith. I thought faith was something inward, invisible! This is a clue to the nature of true faith. While it is something that is within a person, it always has external results. This is why James says that he will show you his faith by his works.

Jesus' statement "Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. I came not to call the righteous, but sinners” should not be understood as a vindication of the self-righteous Pharisees. Quite the opposite! What Jesus is really saying here is that those who "think" that they are well will never go seek out help from a physician. It is only those who "know" they are sick that end up going to the doctor. The point is this - you must come to grips with the fact that you are a sick sinner in order to come in humble repentance to the only One who can heal your soul.

In chapter three, you really get the impression that the Pharisees feel threatened by Jesus. Why else would they plot to destroy someone who is doing so much good?! At the end, there are words of comfort for us. When we do the will of God, we prove to be the brothers of Jesus. We bear the family resemblance, and we will be partakers of the inheritance! Praise to God our Father!

Day 12 - Matthew 27-28

2009-09-18T22:15:00.000-07:00

Well, we've come to the end of the Gospel of Matthew. Chapter 27 is a very long chapter with many things to meditate on and learn from. I'll point out just a few things. Feel free to add your insights and comments as well.

The "spiritual" leaders of Israel continue in their hypocrisy. After Judas feels remorse for his act of treachery, he tries to return the money he was paid to betray Jesus. The chief priests and elders refuse to take back the money by kind of brushing him off. Judas throws the money down at their feet and then goes and hangs himself. So, what do they do? Of course, they can't put the money into the temple treasury! That would be wrong! Strange how they had no qualms about paying the "blood money" to Judas, but they somehow couldn't receive that same money into the "holy" treasury. Their hypocritical self-righteousness continues to dominate their lives!

Verses 24-25 contain some interesting ironies. First, Pilate, having failed to persuade the people to have him release Jesus, decides to "wash his hands" of the whole thing. Of course, that is impossible for him to do, for he is the one "in charge" of this whole thing. The mere washing of water does nothing to absolve him of this travesty that is taking place. Further, the outward washing of hands is not what Pilate needed most. He needed his heart washed inwardly. Second, the people's statement "His blood be on us and on our children!" is in one sense quite chilling. On the other hand, isn't that exactly what they need? Do they not need to have His blood on them in an atoning sense?

Verse 51 has long been a favorite verse of mine. The curtain of the temple, the one that separated the Holy Place from the Holy of Holies, is torn in two from the top to the bottom. Obviously, this is an act of God. But what does it symbolize? It symbolizes the end of the Old Covenant era. The end of the need for a physical temple. The end of the Levitical priesthood. The reason that this ended was that the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross satisfied once and for all the wrath of God against sin. Therefore, the temple sacrifices were no longer necessary. Jesus is now the one mediator between God and men, therefore the priests are no longer necessary. O, the blessings of being a child of God in the New Covenant era!

Chapter 28 closes the book with the victorious resurrection of Jesus and the Great Commission. I love this part of the story because it demonstrates the awesome power of Jesus Christ and because it give me the hope of my future resurrection. Something stood out to me this time around that I thought was significant. When Jesus appeared to Mary Magdalene and the other Mary, He told them to go tell His "brothers" to go to Galilee. Not His "servants." Not even His "disciples" or "followers," but His "brothers"! What a privilege to be a child of God and a joint-heir with Jesus Christ.

Jesus' last words lay out for us the mission of His church - to make disciples and to see to it that they know and do what Jesus had taught. By God's grace and with His power and for His glory may we be faithful disciple-makers until we die or He returns!

Day 11 - Matthew 25-26

2009-09-17T21:33:00.000-07:00

Chapter 25 completes the Olivet Discourse of our Lord. In this section, Jesus gives two parables and one explanation of the final judgment. The first parable tells the story of 5 wise virgins and 5 foolish virgins. The wise have oil, but the foolish do not. The wise are accepted, but the foolish are rejected. What is going on here? It is not immediately clear, but here is what strikes me about this parable. Throughout the Scriptures, oil is consistently a picture of the Holy Spirit. If that imagery is used here, then the wise virgins are those who not only have the Spirit, but are walking in the Spirit. In other words, they are exhibiting readiness because they are bearing fruit of the Spirit's indwelling. The foolish are not just unready, they are fully and finally excluded. This is a serious warning. In effect, Jesus is saying be ready by not only having the Spirit but by living in the Spirit. The second parable is similar in that there are again two groups of people involved - true children of God and mere professors. The first group is faithful with what their master has entrusted to them (side note - a "talent" is not an "ability" as we understand the word, but rather it is a monetary unit of significant value). The second group is not faithful. The result of faithfulness is a welcomed entrance into the "joy" of the master. The result of unfaithfulness is eternal damnation. This is not teaching that we can work our way into favor with God. What it is teaching is that true believers are faithful and mere professor are not! The last paragraph of explanation gives a final characteristic of true believers - they serve others and so prove to be sheep. Goats do not serve others and so prove to be the goats that they are. Once again the true believers are welcomed into the Kingdom, and the mere professors are cast out into eternal damnation. As with the parable of the talents, the serving is not the path to salvation, but is one of the steps along the path that follows salvation. So, a true believer is characterized by walking in the Spirit, faithfulness and serving. If these do not characterize your life, then examine yourself to see if you truly are "in the faith."

Chapter 26 transitions back to the narrative of the final days of our Lord. There is so much in this chapter that is significant, but I will limit myself to a few observations.

The death of Jesus Christ occurred within 24 hours of the feast of the Passover. The Passover feast was a memorial feast to remind the Jews of their deliverance from slavery in the land of Egypt (Ex. 12). The Passover ritual included the slaying of a lamb that was without blemish, applying its blood to the doorposts of the house so that the angel from God would "pass over" that house and not require the blood of the firstborn. So, just hours after Jesus observed that memorial feast, He, the spotless Lamb of God, was slain so that His blood could be applied to my sin so that God would pass over me and not judge me for my sin! What a wonderful Savior!

The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak (26:41). How vividly this is displayed in the life of Peter! Shortly after declaring his loyalty to Christ to the death (vs35), he cannot even stay awake as Jesus prayed in the garden. Then, shortly after being ready to lop off the head of the servant of the High Priest in defense of Jesus, he will not even stand up to the accusation of servant girl that he even was associated with Jesus at all. How often do we find ourselves on that same roller-coaster! I am so glad that we have a patient, forgiving, gracious God and Savior!

The restraint of Jesus throughout His betrayal and "trial" is amazing. After a life of exhibiting incredible power and control over so many varied circumstances, He lays aside any right to exercise this power and submits to the sovereign plan of the Father and allows Himself to be arrested, illegally tried and unjustly convicted. As I read these verses (vs53, 68), I want Jesus to call down the legions of angels to conquer these weak men. I want Jesus to prophesy the names of the ones who were beating them. He could have! But He didn't. He didn't so that He would be unjustly convicted and subsequently put to death so that I might be able to taste the sweetness of forgiveness; so that I might enjoy the undeserved position of a son of God and joint-heir with Jesus Christ; so that I might revel in the glory of God for all eternity! How thankful I am for His restraint so that I might enjoy all the benefits of His salvation!

Day 10 - Matthew 23-24

2009-09-16T22:14:00.000-07:00

If you ever thought that Jesus was only gentle and kind, then you never read these chapters! We've seen Jesus get quite firm and pointed with the Pharisees, but nothing compares to the scathing rebuke that Jesus levels at them in chapter 23! He chastises them for their pride, their hypocrisy, their detrimental teaching of others, and their magnifying of minutia yet ignoring the weighty true religion. In all of this Jesus is basically exposing the Pharisees for what they really are - self-righteous hypocrites! This stern rebuke that Jesus gives the Pharisees should drive us to some serious self-examination. Why do we do what we do? Are we pursuing "right" living merely to look good in front of others? Do we magnify trifling things to neglect of the main things? Who are we leading astray by our poor example? Are we truly righteous or merely self-righteous? If we find ourselves lacking in any of these areas, repentance is certainly in order!

Chapter 24 begins what is commonly called the "Olivet Discourse." It is Jesus' own look toward the end of time. While there is much debate about the particulars of this teaching of Jesus, there are some general principles that are helpful to take from these verses. First, Jesus knows how everything will end, therefore, we need not fear what is coming. He not only knows how things end up, but He is also sovereignly governing all things as they come to pass! Second, difficult times for God's people will come. Don't be surprised by persecution! Jesus said it would come. Third, no one knows exactly when these things will happen. So, beware of date-setters! The point of our not knowing is to promote the readiness of God's people. So, learn from this teaching! You could summarize this chapter with these three commands: Beware! Be calm! Be ready! By God's grace, we can do all three!

Day 9 - Matthew 21-22

2009-09-15T16:50:00.000-07:00

What an amazing two chapters focusing on the glory and wisdom of Christ!

Jesus is preparing to meet death, but there are a few things left for Him to accomplish. The triumphal entry into Jerusalem was one of them. It struck me as I read vs6 that this is just what disciples are supposed to do - exactly what their Lord tells them to do! It also hit me that there is a crowd cheering on Palm Sunday, and yet by the end of the week another crowd will be shouting; not to praise the Savior, but to call for His death! How quickly things can change!

In these chapters, once again, there are warnings to those who would merely profess to be Christians. The parable of the two sons (21:28-32) demonstrates that it is not what a person says, but what he does that determines his obedience. The parable of the tenants (21:33-41) shows that the kingdom is for those who render to the Lord His fruit (vs41). Finally, the parable of the wedding feast (22:14) highlights the fact that you must not just respond to the call to the feast, but you must have the accompanying works in order to be accepted at the table (vs11-13 - the wedding garment is a picture of the righteous works that accompany true regeneration!).

The other big thing that seemed to keep coming up was the brilliant ways that Jesus would answer those who were questioning Him. He answers questions with questions (21:28-32). He silences His questioners with astounding logic (22:15-22). He points out the ignorance of His questioners by using incredible inferences from the Scriptures (22:29-33). His answers take the people completely by surprise (22:34-40 - no doubt the man was expecting Jesus to refer to one of the 10 Commandments). And then, while the people who were trying to trip Him up are still hanging around, He asks them His own question for which they have no answer (22:41-46 - this, by the way, is a wonderful testimony to the Deity of Jesus). This rightfully silences the Pharisees (22:46). How masterful He was in dealing with such hypocritical questioners! Thought: Have you ever questioned the reasoning of God as contained in the Scriptures? Keep reading them and you will be corrected and silenced as well!

In answering His critics, Jesus made some incredibly significant statements. None are quite as powerful as His words in 22:37-40. Let's take this teaching to heart and strive by God's grace to love God and love people and in so doing fulfill the Law and the Prophets!

Day 8 - Matthew 19-20

2009-09-14T15:02:00.000-07:00

Chapter 19 opens with a wonderful display of the patience of Jesus. Here He is ministering to people by healing them and the Pharisees barge in with their question about divorce. Instead of becoming angry with them, He uses this as a teaching opportunity. He lays out the case for the durability of marriage. Why is it that people always ask the wrong question? They ask when is it "OK" to get a divorce when they should be asking what they should do to keep their marriage from dissolving. I read a quote recently by an author stating that since the husband and wife union is pictured using the head and body metaphor (Eph. 5:23), then any separating is not a mere dissolution of a corporation or a break up of a relationship, but rather it is a gruesome decapitation. O, that we as Christians would have this view of the marriage union!

As I write this blog post, my wife and I find ourselves in the midst of searching for a home to purchase in the So Cal area. It is times like these that we wish that we had a bit more money so that our options wouldn't be so narrow. However, it is verses like these (19:16-30) that remind me of some of the blessings of not being "rich," at least in this culture's estimation. What a blessing it is to have everything we truly need in Christ!

Chapter 20 reminds us of the righteous rewards that come from the Father and warns us against questioning His "fairness." Which reminds me, we really don't want what is fair, do we? May we never ask God to give us what we "deserve." I know I don't want God to be fair with me and give me what I deserve! I want grace! I want mercy and loving kindness!

Pride is a dangerous thing, isn't it? It is also a divisive thing as demonstrated in 20:20-24. What business do we have jockeying for position in the Kingdom when we should be busy serving? When will we "get it" that the way up in the Kingdom is down? Let us follow the example of our Savior and humble ourselves and in love serve one another! This example is what follows (vs29-33) as Jesus has compassion on the social outcasts. He could have simply said the words, "Let your eyes be opened!", but instead He went near them and touched these filthy wretches. Let us do the same. Let us go to those that others shun and get dirty and serve them in the love of the Savior!

Day 7 - Matthew 16-18

2009-09-13T21:59:00.000-07:00

I was impressed in chapter 16 with the necessity of Divine illumination. The Pharisees didn't have it. The disciples showed time and time again that they needed it, and needed more of it again. Peter demonstrated that he had it, but only for a brief time. I am so thankful that we live in an era where we have the continual indwelling of the illuminating Spirit of God! Even so, how many times are we like Peter and move so quickly from what God has shown us to our own earthly, fleshly wisdom? Constant dependence on the Spirit is what our thinking needs!

The end of chapter 16 (vs.24-26) was a good reminder to me of the demands that discipleship brings. There are crosses to bear, but the rewards that await those that do take up those crosses and give their lives for Christ far outweigh the sacrifice. With that in mind, can you really call these "sacrifices" sacrifices?

The account of Jesus' healing the boy with a demon takes a bit of a twist from earlier accounts of healing. By this point in Matthew we are getting used to seeing the connection between the great works of Christ and the faith of the one coming to be healed. Here the necessity of faith is seen again, but this time it is what is needed for someone to do great things in the Name of God. The disciples could not cast out the demon because they did not have faith (17:17).

Just a few comments about chapter 18. Vs7-9 give us the serious call to radical amputation that is necessary for lasting victory in the Christian life. Vs15-20 details the church restoration process that unfortunately is not practiced by many so-called churches today. Interesting to note that vs20, that so many quote with regard to small church gatherings, comes up in this context where God's presence in the midst of two or three gathered believers is for the purpose of confirming the condemnation of the unrepentant so-called Christian. Hmmmm...makes you wonder why so many people use this verse as a means of comfort.

The final parable in chapter 18 is probably my all-time favorite. Not because of the tragic ending, but because of the picture of myself that I see there. I am the one who owed 10,000 talents (an unimaginable sum!), and yet I am forgiven! How much more, then, should I be a forgiving person seeing how much I have been forgiven! What a good God we have!

Day 6 - Matthew 14-15

2009-09-12T16:54:00.000-07:00

These chapters continue many of the themes that we've already seen in the book of Matthew thus far: the power of Jesus to heal all kinds of sickness and disease (14:35-36; 15:28-31), the connection between faith and the mighty working of Jesus (15:28), the power of Jesus over nature (this time evidenced by not just calming the storm but actually walking on the sea (14:25)! and twice using a small about of food to feed thousands of people (14:13-21; 15:32-39)) and the importance of the heart over mere external religion (15:1-20).

Those are general observations, but consider a few specific things noted in these chapters. People are starting to get it. They get the fact that Jesus is the Son of God (14:32) based on the great works that He is doing. They get the fact that Jesus has the power to heal. That's why when they find out where He is, they bring the sick to Him. But beyond that, they get the fact that He is healing by means of Divine power. This is why they glorify God for the healing of Jesus (15:31). The Pharisees still don't get it. They keep pestering Jesus with trifling things, and Jesus continues to point out their hypocrisy and mere external religion. Even though the disciples begin to get it, they still fall short. Think this through. Jesus just fed over 5,000 people with 5 loaves and two fish. A short time later, there is more food (7 loaves and a few fish) and fewer people (just over 4,000), and yet they still seem confused about how to solve this problem!

For us, let us always remember that the Divine power that Jesus exhibited is the same power that is at work in us today. Let us always remember the primacy of the heart. Let us consistently turn away from mere externalism. Finally, let us always approach our God and Savior in faith and expectation for Him to continue to do mighty acts among us!

Day 5 - Matthew 12-13

2009-09-11T22:36:00.000-07:00

The glory of Jesus Christ continues to be displayed, but there is a bit of a shift. The shift is from the glory of Christ displayed in His works to its display in His words. In His teaching on the significance of the Sabbath (ch. 12), He corrects the wrong thinking of the Pharisees who were so hypocritical in their observance and enforcement of the details of the Law of God. Jesus points out that it is the heart that God is after, not mere externalism! This is highlighted by the use of Hosea 6:6 for the second time (cf. 9:13). God wants our loving loyalty to Him, not just external ritual.

Jesus' teaching continues in chapter 13, but there is a shift to teaching regarding the Kingdom of Heaven. Here are some observations concerning the Kingdom. Its members are fruit-bearing (13:23), genuine (13:30) and righteous (13:49). It has a small start, but its impact is far-reaching (13:31-33). It is a treasure to be desired above all else (13:44-45). In this teaching, it is impossible to miss the warning to those who merely profess to be members of the Kingdom. Jesus Himself predicted that there would be impostors. There are those that might even seem to give signs of life (13:20-22), but the end of these mere professors is damnation (13:42,50). I guess this flies in the face of those who claim that Jesus was all love and no judgment! This is a good time to examine ourselves to see if there is evidence of true life within us that is producing external fruit!

The last verse of chapter 13 is quite an indictment! Let us be a people of faith and see what mighty works God will do among us!

Day 4 - Matthew 10-11

2009-09-10T21:38:00.000-07:00

When Jesus sent out His disciples, He sent them to do exactly what He had been doing. The list of things mentioned in 10:7-8 are identical to what is recorded of Jesus in chapters 4-9. His disciples saw Jesus "in action" and were called to imitate Him. The warning is somber, but certainly warranted. The things that awaited the disciples would be difficult, but in the face of that warning, Jesus reassures His apostles not to fear. He pointed them to the ever-watching care of the Father. This is a familiar theme we see played out time and again in the Scriptures and throughout the rest of history. God calls people to go and represent Him before people. Those who are sent are persecuted, yet God continues to watch over them and either deliver them miraculously or sustain them by infinite grace in just as miraculous fashion! What makes us think that it will be any different with us?!

In chapter 11, Jesus pronounces a woe to the unrepentant cities. These were places where Jesus had done incredible things, attesting His identification as Messiah, and yet they did not respond in repentance. Certainly, when such holy power is on display, repentance is in order. We should take care that such a lack of repentance is not present in our own hearts, for we have, as Peter says, a more sure word of prophecy in the record of the Scriptures that should call us to a lifestyle that is marked by repentance. I love the statement I heard years ago, "It's not just once saved always saved, but more than that it's once regenerated always repenting!"

I love the way chapter 11 closes - the invitation of Jesus to come to Him and find rest for our souls! To borrow from Jim Berg, the only way to quiet the noise that is in our souls is to come to Jesus. He is the source of true rest! Let's come to Him, not just once by faith for initial salvation, but continually for the rest and refreshment that our souls so desperately need!

Day 3 - Matthew 8-9

2009-09-09T17:37:00.000-07:00

Here are a few big ideas that jumped out at me as well as a couple of questions.

The Power of Jesus. Over physical maladies - leprosy, paralyzation (twice!), fever, discharge of blood, death, blindness and other unnamed sicknesses. Over nature - calming the storm. Over spiritual needs - casting out demons on two separate occasions and forgiving the sins of the paralytic.

The Negative Reactions to Jesus of Some. The people asking Jesus to leave their region, the scribes who thought Jesus was blaspheming by saying He could forgive sins, the Pharisees complaining about Jesus' eating with sinners, the questioning of the Pharisees about why Jesus' disciples did not fast, the people scoffing at Jesus when He said that the young girl was only sleeping and the Pharisees charge that Jesus was casting out demons by the prince of demons.

The Faith of Others. The leper's faith is not specifically mentioned, yet why would they have come to Jesus if they didn't believe that He could help them?! The Centurion's incredible faith that all Jesus had to do was speak a word and his servant would be healed. The faith of the people carrying the paralytic. The faith of Matthew is demonstrated in that he left his tax booth and followed Jesus. The amazing faith of the woman with a discharge of blood in that she thought all she had to do was just get close to Jesus and there would be healing. The blind men were healed because of their faith.

A Favorite Verse. 8:11 is a favorite verse of mine because I see myself in the verse. I am not a physical child of Abraham and Isaac, but because I have put my faith in Jesus Christ as my Savior, I have a spot at the table in heaven! I love it when I can see myself specifically mentioned in the Scriptures!

A Couple of Questions. Why did the people ask Jesus to leave their region after casting out the demon? Why did Jesus tell the blind men that He healed not to tell others about what He did for them?

I'll close this post by obeying Jesus, and pray that the Lord of the harvest would send laborers into His harvest!

Day 2 - Matthew 5-7

2009-09-08T15:11:00.000-07:00

How can one summarize the entire Sermon on the Mount?! There is so much here to consider and chew on, but I'll just limit myself to a few observations. Feel free to fill in what I missed!

True Conversion. Jesus gives us the path and product of true conversion. The "Beatitudes" give us the path. There must be honesty about your condition (poor in spirit), repentance (mourn) and humility (meek). The rest of the list gives the product of true conversion (a hunger and thirst for righteousness, showing mercy, purity of heart, peacemaking and the resulting reviling and persecution from the world). Other evidences of true conversion are seen in the way that we are salt in the earth and light in the world (5:13-16), the good fruit that comes from our lives (7:15-20) and submission to the words of Jesus (7:24-27). Jesus presents the Law and it's applications to show us how much we need this conversion (5:17-48), and then tells us that the way is narrow and hard (7:13-14). The warning that Jesus gives at the end of the sermon is quite sobering (7:21-23)! I pray that no reader of this blog would be numbered with those who only profess to know the Savior, but are not truly known by the Savior!

The Evil of Pride - 6:1-17. How sad it is when we find ourselves doing what we ought to do in order to be seen and praise by men! It reminded me of this verse in Isaiah 2:22 - Stop regarding man in whose nostrils is breath, for of what account is he?

The Glory of Jesus Christ. 7:28-29 has long been one of my favorite passages of Scripture. Jesus' teaching is not like any mere mortal! His teaching commands attention because it has authority. I pray that my own teaching would be so in tune with the truth of God that it may have His authority attached to it!

Soli Deo Gloria

Day 1 - Matthew 1-4

2009-09-07T15:04:00.000-07:00

Here's what jumped out at me this time around!

The sovereign grace of God in bringing good out of evil. In the genealogy of Jesus Christ several things just leap off the page. The line that leads to Christ includes the son that resulted from the incestuous union between Judah and Tamar (see Gen. 38). It also includes a prostitute, Rahab (see Josh. 2). It includes the son of Bathsheba, the woman with whom King David committed adultery. God used sinful people and their sinful acts to bring into the world the One who would save these people from their sins! Isn't God good?!

The obedience of Joseph. Watch how every time God told Joseph to do something, he did it immediately (see 1:20,24-25; 2:13-14; 19-21). I know that we don't have God appearing to us in dreams telling us to go to specific places, but we do have God's Word that tells us to do (or not do) some very specific things. O, that we would follow Joseph's example of submission to the will of God in our lives!

The reliability of Scripture. How many times are the words "to fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet" used in these chapters?! When God predicts something, it happens. He has a perfect track record! Therefore, we can have confidence that everything that He has promised, will come to pass!

The importance of repentance. Notice how "repent" was the theme of the message of both John the Baptist (3:2) AND Jesus (4:17)! Unfortunately, this theme is all too uncommon in present-day preaching!

The glory of Jesus Christ. Of course, this is the theme of the entire NT, but notice how it is emphasized in these first four chapters of Matthew's Gospel. He will save His people from their sins (1:21). He is God with us (1:23). He was worshiped by the magi (2:11). His greatness was acknowledged by John the Baptist (3:14) and confirmed by the Spirit (3:16) and the Father (3:17). His holiness manifested in overcoming the temptations of the Devil (4:1-11). His power in successfully calling men to Himself (4:18-22). His power over sickness and demons (4:23-24). What a Savior!

Well, there it is. I know there is much more in these chapters to point out and discuss, but I'll leave the rest of that for the comments. Feel free to point out what you learned from these chapters and comment on what I've mentioned.

Soli Deo Gloria

Blogging Through the Bible

2009-08-31T22:01:00.001-07:00

In a few days, I'm planning to begin reading through the New Testament in 90 days. I intend to make some brief comments on this blog throughout my journey. I'd like to invite others to join me on my journey or at least to interact with my posts. Here is the reading plan that I will be using.

I'll post again right before I begin so that any of you that want to join in with me can start together.

I look forward to going through the NT at this pace as well as the interaction that comes.