Summary:
The Rich Young Man
Verses 16-30
A man came up to Jesus and asked what good thing he must do to gain eternal life. Jesus asked why he asked Jesus about what is good. There is only One who is good. To enter life, we must obey the commandments. The man asked which ones. Jesus responded: don't murder, commit adultery, steal, or lie. Honor your parents and love your neighbor as yourself.
The man said he'd done all of these and asked what he lacked. Jesus told him that if he wanted to be perfect, he should sell everything he owned and give it to the poor. Then, he'd have treasure in heaven and could follow Jesus. The young man left, saddened, because he was quite rich.
Jesus told His disciples that it is difficult for the rich to enter heaven. It's easier for a camel to walk through the eye of a needle. The disciples were astonished and asked who, then, could be saved. Jesus told them that it was impossible with man, but, with God, everything is possible.
Peter told Jesus that they'd left everything to follow Him. What would there be, then, for them? Jesus told them the truth: when everything is renewed, the Son of Man will sit on His glorious throne, and those that followed Him will sit on 12 thrones and judge the 12 tribes of Israel. Those that leave houses, siblings, parents, or fields for His sake will receive 100x as much and will inherit eternal life. Many who are first will be last and many who are last will be first.
Lori's Thoughts:
I used to think that this story was about how being rich can keep you away from God. It can be true. But, the main theme here is legalism. The man asked how he could earn salvation. He did not see the Savior, although He was conversing with Him.
Although the young man kept the commandments, He did not really love all of his neighbors or truly love God. His faith was in money and his love was for himself. The same story can be told if we replace money with status, drugs, alcohol, or someone we admire. Even if we are good, we cannot go to heaven if we do not have a relationship with God. What would be the point of living with God, if we don't have a relationship with Him? Would you live with a stranger and never have a conversation with them? Not for long, you wouldn't.
Only with God can we be saved. With God, we can break down whatever might separate us. Jesus didn't say it's impossible for the rich to be saved. It's difficult, because they feel secure. However, God is the only fault-free security system and retirement plan. Are you in?
Friday, July 29, 2011
Friday, July 22, 2011
Matthew 19: Part I - Divorce (NIV)
Summary:
Divorce
Verses 1-12
When Jesus finished speaking, He left Galilee and went to Judea, across the Jordan. Large crowds followed Him and He healed them.
The Pharisees came to test Him, asking if it is lawful for a man to divorce his wife for any reason. Jesus asked if they'd read Genesis 1:27, which states that God created male and female, stating that a man will leave his parents to be united as one flesh with His wife. The two become one. Therefore, man shouldn't separate what God has joined.
The Pharisees asked why Moses commanded for a man to give his wife a divorce certificate and send her on her way. Jesus said that Moses allowed this, because their hearts were hard. It wasn't always this way. Anyone that divorces his wife, except for marital unfaithfulness, and marries another woman commits adultery.
The disciples told Jesus, then, that it's better not to marry. Jesus said that not everyone can accept this, unless it has been given to them. Some are born eunuchs; some become eunuchs. Others renounce marriage because of the kingdom of heaven. Those that can accept this should.
Lori's Thoughts:
I would get into the pettiness and pompousness (if that's a word) about the Pharisees, but I'm sure I've done that already. Poor Jesus. He must have been so annoyed at them. Out of His immense patience and wisdom, He gave them an accurate and complete answer.
I'd rather focus on what Jesus said. To get to heaven, each individual must give up anything that will bind them to this earth. For some, it's money. For others, it's sex. This is extremely hard to accept and even harder to do. But, all things are possible with God.
If you are connected to the Holy Spirit, He will convict you of what you need to do. I do not feel a conviction to not get married. I do feel a conviction to follow God's lead for where I go to work, school, etc. And I will follow His lead for whom to share my life with, in service to Him.
The instructions I've received from God may be completely different from the ones you receive. The important thing to do is to be personally connected to God. Accept no substitutes!
Divorce
Verses 1-12
When Jesus finished speaking, He left Galilee and went to Judea, across the Jordan. Large crowds followed Him and He healed them.
The Pharisees came to test Him, asking if it is lawful for a man to divorce his wife for any reason. Jesus asked if they'd read Genesis 1:27, which states that God created male and female, stating that a man will leave his parents to be united as one flesh with His wife. The two become one. Therefore, man shouldn't separate what God has joined.
The Pharisees asked why Moses commanded for a man to give his wife a divorce certificate and send her on her way. Jesus said that Moses allowed this, because their hearts were hard. It wasn't always this way. Anyone that divorces his wife, except for marital unfaithfulness, and marries another woman commits adultery.
The disciples told Jesus, then, that it's better not to marry. Jesus said that not everyone can accept this, unless it has been given to them. Some are born eunuchs; some become eunuchs. Others renounce marriage because of the kingdom of heaven. Those that can accept this should.
Lori's Thoughts:
I would get into the pettiness and pompousness (if that's a word) about the Pharisees, but I'm sure I've done that already. Poor Jesus. He must have been so annoyed at them. Out of His immense patience and wisdom, He gave them an accurate and complete answer.
I'd rather focus on what Jesus said. To get to heaven, each individual must give up anything that will bind them to this earth. For some, it's money. For others, it's sex. This is extremely hard to accept and even harder to do. But, all things are possible with God.
If you are connected to the Holy Spirit, He will convict you of what you need to do. I do not feel a conviction to not get married. I do feel a conviction to follow God's lead for where I go to work, school, etc. And I will follow His lead for whom to share my life with, in service to Him.
The instructions I've received from God may be completely different from the ones you receive. The important thing to do is to be personally connected to God. Accept no substitutes!
Thursday, July 21, 2011
II Chronicles 30 - Hezekiah Celebrates the Passover (NIV)
Summary:
Hezekiah Celebrates the Passover
Verses 1-27
King Hezekiah sent word to all Israel and Judah, sending letters to Ephraim and Manasseh, inviting them to come to the Lord's temple in Jerusalem, to celebrate the Passover. They celebrated it in the 2nd month, because there weren't enough consecrated priests or people assembled in Jerusalem to conduct Passover at the appointed time. The king and assembly decided to send out a proclamation from Beersheba to Dan, inviting all of Israel. The king's couriers carried this message:
- He appealed to them to return to God, so that He'd return to those left, who'd escaped the kings of Assyria.
- They should leave the unfaithful ways of their fathers & brothers, who were now objects of horror.
- Don't be stiff-necked like their family members; submit to the Lord
- He invited them to the sanctuary, which God had consecrated forever, to serve God, so His fierce anger would be turned away.
- If they returned to Him, their brothers and children would be shown compassion by their captors and allowed to return home, by God's grace and compassion.
- God won't turn His face from them, if they returned to Him.
The couriers went to each town, in Ephraim and Manasseh, and as far as Zebulun, but the people scorned them. Some men of Asher, Manasseh, and Zebulun humbled themselves and went to Jerusalem. The hand of God gave unity to the minds of the Judeans to follow the king's order and obey God's word. A huge crowd of people went to Jerusalem to celebrate the Feast of Unleavened Bread, in the second month. They removed the altars in Jerusalem and cleared the incense altars, throwing them into the Kidron Valley. They slaughtered the Passover lamb on the 14th day. The priests and Levites were ashamed, consecrated themselves, and brought burnt offerings to the Lord's temple. They, then, took up their regular positions, as prescribed in the Law of Moses. The priests sprinkled the blood given to them by the Levites. Many in the crowd hadn't consecrated themselves, therefore, the Levites killed their Passover lambs.
People from Ephraim, Manasseh, Issachar, and Zebulun were impure, but ate the Passover, against the Law. Hezekiah prayed for them, asking God to pardon those whose hearts were set on seeking Him, even if they were unclean. God heard him and healed the people.
The people celebrated for 7 days, with great rejoicing. The Levites and priests sang and played instruments in praise to the Lord. Hezekiah encouraged the Levites, who showed good understanding for serving God. They ate their assigned portions and offered fellowship offerings for 7 days, praising God. The assembly agreed to celebrate for 7 more days, with joy.
Hezekiah provided 1,000 bulls and 7,000 sheep and goats. The officials provided 1,000 bulls and 10,000 sheep and goats. A large number of priests consecrated themselves. The whole assembly, priests, Levites, and foreigners from Israel and Judah, rejoiced. There was great joy in Jerusalem, because there'd been nothing like this in Jerusalem since the days of David and Solomon. The priests and Levites stood to bless the people and God heard them. Their prayer reached heaven, His holy dwelling place.
Lori's Thoughts:
King Hezekiah was one of the greatest kings of Judah. Can you imagine walking into a Las Vegas strip club, telling everyone to repent and go back to God? I'd be terrified. Hezekiah's task was much more daunting. He was reaching out to an entire nation, which had been broken for a long time. However, Hezekiah stepped out in faith and many people responded to it. They desired to feel that connection to God, again. It's a powerful feeling.
This chapter gives further proof that God is out to save us and not condemn us. Although many people weren't consecrated before returning to God, the king petitioned for them, and God had mercy on them. Even more, He healed them. Thanks to Jesus, we can now approach God directly, without being perfect first, and He heals us. However, we still need to be sanctified by the Holy Spirit to connect with God forever.
Spiritual highs are the best! We will celebrate with Christ. Meanwhile, I will dance in this small space.
Hezekiah Celebrates the Passover
Verses 1-27
King Hezekiah sent word to all Israel and Judah, sending letters to Ephraim and Manasseh, inviting them to come to the Lord's temple in Jerusalem, to celebrate the Passover. They celebrated it in the 2nd month, because there weren't enough consecrated priests or people assembled in Jerusalem to conduct Passover at the appointed time. The king and assembly decided to send out a proclamation from Beersheba to Dan, inviting all of Israel. The king's couriers carried this message:
- He appealed to them to return to God, so that He'd return to those left, who'd escaped the kings of Assyria.
- They should leave the unfaithful ways of their fathers & brothers, who were now objects of horror.
- Don't be stiff-necked like their family members; submit to the Lord
- He invited them to the sanctuary, which God had consecrated forever, to serve God, so His fierce anger would be turned away.
- If they returned to Him, their brothers and children would be shown compassion by their captors and allowed to return home, by God's grace and compassion.
- God won't turn His face from them, if they returned to Him.
The couriers went to each town, in Ephraim and Manasseh, and as far as Zebulun, but the people scorned them. Some men of Asher, Manasseh, and Zebulun humbled themselves and went to Jerusalem. The hand of God gave unity to the minds of the Judeans to follow the king's order and obey God's word. A huge crowd of people went to Jerusalem to celebrate the Feast of Unleavened Bread, in the second month. They removed the altars in Jerusalem and cleared the incense altars, throwing them into the Kidron Valley. They slaughtered the Passover lamb on the 14th day. The priests and Levites were ashamed, consecrated themselves, and brought burnt offerings to the Lord's temple. They, then, took up their regular positions, as prescribed in the Law of Moses. The priests sprinkled the blood given to them by the Levites. Many in the crowd hadn't consecrated themselves, therefore, the Levites killed their Passover lambs.
People from Ephraim, Manasseh, Issachar, and Zebulun were impure, but ate the Passover, against the Law. Hezekiah prayed for them, asking God to pardon those whose hearts were set on seeking Him, even if they were unclean. God heard him and healed the people.
The people celebrated for 7 days, with great rejoicing. The Levites and priests sang and played instruments in praise to the Lord. Hezekiah encouraged the Levites, who showed good understanding for serving God. They ate their assigned portions and offered fellowship offerings for 7 days, praising God. The assembly agreed to celebrate for 7 more days, with joy.
Hezekiah provided 1,000 bulls and 7,000 sheep and goats. The officials provided 1,000 bulls and 10,000 sheep and goats. A large number of priests consecrated themselves. The whole assembly, priests, Levites, and foreigners from Israel and Judah, rejoiced. There was great joy in Jerusalem, because there'd been nothing like this in Jerusalem since the days of David and Solomon. The priests and Levites stood to bless the people and God heard them. Their prayer reached heaven, His holy dwelling place.
Lori's Thoughts:
King Hezekiah was one of the greatest kings of Judah. Can you imagine walking into a Las Vegas strip club, telling everyone to repent and go back to God? I'd be terrified. Hezekiah's task was much more daunting. He was reaching out to an entire nation, which had been broken for a long time. However, Hezekiah stepped out in faith and many people responded to it. They desired to feel that connection to God, again. It's a powerful feeling.
This chapter gives further proof that God is out to save us and not condemn us. Although many people weren't consecrated before returning to God, the king petitioned for them, and God had mercy on them. Even more, He healed them. Thanks to Jesus, we can now approach God directly, without being perfect first, and He heals us. However, we still need to be sanctified by the Holy Spirit to connect with God forever.
Spiritual highs are the best! We will celebrate with Christ. Meanwhile, I will dance in this small space.
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
Matthew 18: Part III - The Parable of the Unmerciful Servant (NIV)
Summary:
The Parable of the Unmerciful Servant
Verses 21-35
Peter asked Jesus how many times he should forgive a brother who sins against him. He asked if seven times was enough. Jesus told him, not seven, but 77 times (or 7 X 70 times). Jesus, then, told him this parable:
The kingdom of heaven is like a king who went to settle his accounts with his servants. A man owed him 10,000 talents (millions of dollars), but wasn't able to pay it. The master ordered to sell him, his wife, children, and possessions to pay off the debt. The servant begged for patience and promised to pay everything back. The master took pity on him, canceled the debt, and let him go.
The servant left and found a fellow servant who owed him 100 denarii (a few dollars). He grabbed the other servant, choking him, and demanded payment. The other servant begged on his knees for patience and promised to pay off the debt. The first servant refused and had him thrown in prison, until he could pay the debt.
The other servants saw what happened and were distressed. They told the master everything that happened. The master called the servant over, called him wicked, and reminded him of the debt he'd canceled. The master asked if the servant should also have been merciful to his fellow servant. In anger, the master turned the servant over to the jailers, to be tortured, until he could pay back everything. This is how God will treat us, unless we forgive each other from the heart.
Lori's Thoughts:
In this parable, God is the master and we are the servants. The enormous debt that the first servant incurred was salvation. It is impossible for us to pay the price. All we need to do is ask God for mercy. He gives us more. He gives us grace. Jesus Christ canceled the debt for us by His death and resurrection.
However, if we do not obtain a relationship with God, we will not become like Him. There is no room for sin in heaven. So, if we don't forgive other humans for their faults, which are miniscule compared to the payment for salvation, we will be thrown in hell.
Be merciful as your heavenly father is merciful. Don't be a doormat, but be quick to forgive when people ask you.
"Oh, praise the One who paid my debt and raised this life up from the dead!"
"Oh, praise the One who paid my debt and raised this life up from the dead!"
"Oh, praise the One who paid my debt and raised this life up from the dead!"
The Parable of the Unmerciful Servant
Verses 21-35
Peter asked Jesus how many times he should forgive a brother who sins against him. He asked if seven times was enough. Jesus told him, not seven, but 77 times (or 7 X 70 times). Jesus, then, told him this parable:
The kingdom of heaven is like a king who went to settle his accounts with his servants. A man owed him 10,000 talents (millions of dollars), but wasn't able to pay it. The master ordered to sell him, his wife, children, and possessions to pay off the debt. The servant begged for patience and promised to pay everything back. The master took pity on him, canceled the debt, and let him go.
The servant left and found a fellow servant who owed him 100 denarii (a few dollars). He grabbed the other servant, choking him, and demanded payment. The other servant begged on his knees for patience and promised to pay off the debt. The first servant refused and had him thrown in prison, until he could pay the debt.
The other servants saw what happened and were distressed. They told the master everything that happened. The master called the servant over, called him wicked, and reminded him of the debt he'd canceled. The master asked if the servant should also have been merciful to his fellow servant. In anger, the master turned the servant over to the jailers, to be tortured, until he could pay back everything. This is how God will treat us, unless we forgive each other from the heart.
Lori's Thoughts:
In this parable, God is the master and we are the servants. The enormous debt that the first servant incurred was salvation. It is impossible for us to pay the price. All we need to do is ask God for mercy. He gives us more. He gives us grace. Jesus Christ canceled the debt for us by His death and resurrection.
However, if we do not obtain a relationship with God, we will not become like Him. There is no room for sin in heaven. So, if we don't forgive other humans for their faults, which are miniscule compared to the payment for salvation, we will be thrown in hell.
Be merciful as your heavenly father is merciful. Don't be a doormat, but be quick to forgive when people ask you.
"Oh, praise the One who paid my debt and raised this life up from the dead!"
"Oh, praise the One who paid my debt and raised this life up from the dead!"
"Oh, praise the One who paid my debt and raised this life up from the dead!"
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
Matthew 18: Part II - A Brother Who Sins Against You
Summary:
A Brother Who Sins Against You
Verses 15-20
[Jesus speaks] If your brother (or sister) sins against you, show him his fault, but keep it between the two of you. If he listens, you've won him over. If he doesn't, take 1-2 others with you, so that, "...'every matter may be established by the testimony of 2 or 3 witnesses.' " (Verse 16b)
If he still refuses to listen, tell the church. If he refuses to listen to the church, treat him as a pagan or a tax collector. Whatever you bind or loosen on earth will be bound or loosened in heaven. If 2 on earth agree about anything you ask for, it will be done by His Father in heaven. Where 2-3 come together in His name, He is there with them.
Lori's Thoughts:
As a human, I get really frustrated with people. Usually, I leave and stew until I calm down. Then, I come back and talk to the person that angered me. I hate doing it, but I learned that I can't ignore my problems, let them build up, and then blow up unexpectedly. Jesus did not tell us that we should never get angry; He showed us what to do about it.
We have the concept of binding and loosening again. Maybe it means that when people of God make peace with others, they are claiming them for the kingdom of heaven. They are choosing to speak for others when their salvation comes into question. I claim this person, because Christ told us to make disciples out of everyone. (See Matthew 28:19) Although they sin, God is working on them.
However, if a person refuses to stop sinning, and they want nothing to do with peace, Christians must loosen them and let them go. We can't force anyone to serve God. But, we can certainly pray for the Holy Spirit to remember them and keep knocking gently on their hearts. At that point, we can only hope that they answer Him. But, it is our duty to do something.
A Brother Who Sins Against You
Verses 15-20
[Jesus speaks] If your brother (or sister) sins against you, show him his fault, but keep it between the two of you. If he listens, you've won him over. If he doesn't, take 1-2 others with you, so that, "...'every matter may be established by the testimony of 2 or 3 witnesses.' " (Verse 16b)
If he still refuses to listen, tell the church. If he refuses to listen to the church, treat him as a pagan or a tax collector. Whatever you bind or loosen on earth will be bound or loosened in heaven. If 2 on earth agree about anything you ask for, it will be done by His Father in heaven. Where 2-3 come together in His name, He is there with them.
Lori's Thoughts:
As a human, I get really frustrated with people. Usually, I leave and stew until I calm down. Then, I come back and talk to the person that angered me. I hate doing it, but I learned that I can't ignore my problems, let them build up, and then blow up unexpectedly. Jesus did not tell us that we should never get angry; He showed us what to do about it.
We have the concept of binding and loosening again. Maybe it means that when people of God make peace with others, they are claiming them for the kingdom of heaven. They are choosing to speak for others when their salvation comes into question. I claim this person, because Christ told us to make disciples out of everyone. (See Matthew 28:19) Although they sin, God is working on them.
However, if a person refuses to stop sinning, and they want nothing to do with peace, Christians must loosen them and let them go. We can't force anyone to serve God. But, we can certainly pray for the Holy Spirit to remember them and keep knocking gently on their hearts. At that point, we can only hope that they answer Him. But, it is our duty to do something.
Monday, July 18, 2011
Matthew 18: Part I - The Greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven
Summary:
The Greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven
Verses 1-9
The disciples went to Jesus and asked who the greatest was in heaven. Jesus called over a small child and had him stand among them. Jesus told them that unless they changed and became like a small child, they'd never get to heaven. So, those that humble themselves like the child are the greatest in heaven. Whoever welcomes a child in His name welcomes Jesus.
If anyone causes a little one, that believes in Christ, to sin - it'd be better to have a large millstone tied around their neck to drown them in the sea. Woe to the world, because of what causes sin. These things must come, but woe to them to whom they come. If your hand or foot causes you to sin, cut it off. It's better to live life maimed or crippled than to have all of your limbs and be thrown into eternal fire. If your eye causes you to sin gouge it out and throw it away. It's better to live with one eye than to have both and be thrown into the fire of hell.
Lori's Thoughts:
Jesus did not preach a touchy-feely gospel. Why should He? Our fate is His mission. Our sinful nature makes it easy for us to sin. I'm sure Jesus doesn't want us to maim ourselves. He wants us to go to heaven. But, if we let ourselves get wrapped up in pettiness, such as competing with each other for who is the best, we start to worship ourselves and we sin against God.
The disciples were asking who was the greatest of their group in heaven. They should have been thinking about how wonderful God is for even thinking of us. How humbling it must have been for grown fishermen, strong and burly, to find a child in their midst and be told to aspire to be like this child. It must have been like cold water in the face. The gospel is not easy to take. If it was easy, lots of people would take that road, but not put their hearts into it. Where would honor or glory or wisdom or perseverance or understanding be if salvation was easy? We'd take it for granted. The determined, the seeking, will find it.
Summary...
The Parable of the Lost Sheep
Verses 10-14
Jesus told them not to look down upon children, because their angels always see the face of God. He asked them if the owner of 100 sheep, with 1 that wanders off, will leave the 99 to look for the 1? The answer is yes. If He finds it, He's happier about the 1 than the 99 that never strayed. Similarly, God doesn't want to lose a single one!
Lori's Thoughts...
Do you get it now?! Jesus isn't mean or want you to experience no pleasure. He wants you safe, first. Then, you can enjoy yourself. But, while we're on this earth and in these sinful bodies, we must train ourselves, through the coaching of the Holy Spirit, to stop sinning.
It is possible to not sin. Elijah did it. He was a human + God. Anyone + God can do it. God won't stop trying to save you until you are safe or until you make Him stop. But, you must actively accept salvation to obtain it.
The Greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven
Verses 1-9
The disciples went to Jesus and asked who the greatest was in heaven. Jesus called over a small child and had him stand among them. Jesus told them that unless they changed and became like a small child, they'd never get to heaven. So, those that humble themselves like the child are the greatest in heaven. Whoever welcomes a child in His name welcomes Jesus.
If anyone causes a little one, that believes in Christ, to sin - it'd be better to have a large millstone tied around their neck to drown them in the sea. Woe to the world, because of what causes sin. These things must come, but woe to them to whom they come. If your hand or foot causes you to sin, cut it off. It's better to live life maimed or crippled than to have all of your limbs and be thrown into eternal fire. If your eye causes you to sin gouge it out and throw it away. It's better to live with one eye than to have both and be thrown into the fire of hell.
Lori's Thoughts:
Jesus did not preach a touchy-feely gospel. Why should He? Our fate is His mission. Our sinful nature makes it easy for us to sin. I'm sure Jesus doesn't want us to maim ourselves. He wants us to go to heaven. But, if we let ourselves get wrapped up in pettiness, such as competing with each other for who is the best, we start to worship ourselves and we sin against God.
The disciples were asking who was the greatest of their group in heaven. They should have been thinking about how wonderful God is for even thinking of us. How humbling it must have been for grown fishermen, strong and burly, to find a child in their midst and be told to aspire to be like this child. It must have been like cold water in the face. The gospel is not easy to take. If it was easy, lots of people would take that road, but not put their hearts into it. Where would honor or glory or wisdom or perseverance or understanding be if salvation was easy? We'd take it for granted. The determined, the seeking, will find it.
Summary...
The Parable of the Lost Sheep
Verses 10-14
Jesus told them not to look down upon children, because their angels always see the face of God. He asked them if the owner of 100 sheep, with 1 that wanders off, will leave the 99 to look for the 1? The answer is yes. If He finds it, He's happier about the 1 than the 99 that never strayed. Similarly, God doesn't want to lose a single one!
Lori's Thoughts...
Do you get it now?! Jesus isn't mean or want you to experience no pleasure. He wants you safe, first. Then, you can enjoy yourself. But, while we're on this earth and in these sinful bodies, we must train ourselves, through the coaching of the Holy Spirit, to stop sinning.
It is possible to not sin. Elijah did it. He was a human + God. Anyone + God can do it. God won't stop trying to save you until you are safe or until you make Him stop. But, you must actively accept salvation to obtain it.
Friday, July 15, 2011
II Chronicles 29 - Hezekiah Purifies the Temple (NIV)
Summary:
Hezekiah Purifies the Temple
Verses 1 - 36
King Hezekiah: 25 years old when he became king
- reigned in Jerusalem for 29 years
- mother: Abijah daughter of Zechariah
- did right in God's eyes, as David had done
The first month in the first year of his reign:
- opened the temple doors and repaired them
- assembled the priests & Levites on the east side of the square
- gave them these instructions: consecrate themselves and the temple of the Lord, removing all defilement
Their fathers had been unfaithful and evil; they had forsook God. They turned their backs on God, shutting the portico doors and putting out the lamps. They did not burn incense or present burnt offerings in God's sanctuary. Therefore, God's anger had fallen on Jerusalem and Judah. They had become objects of dread, horror, and scorn. This is why their fathers had been killed by the sword and their sons, daughters, and wives were now in captivity.
King Hezekiah intended to make a covenant with God, to turn His anger from them. He told the priests and Levites, calling them sons, to not be negligent, because God had chosen them to stand before Him, serve Him, minister before Him, and to burn incense.
These are the Levites that went to work: [s. = "son of"]
- from the Kohathites - Mahath s. Amasai, Joel s. Azariah
- from the Merarites - Kish s. Abdi, Azariah s. Jehallelel
- from the Gershonites - Joah s. Zimmah, Eden s. Joah
- descendants of Elizaphan - Shimir & Jeiel
- descendants of Asaph - Zechariah & Mattaniah
- descendants of Heman - Jehiel & Shimei
- descendants of Jeduthun - Shemaiah & Uzziel
They assembled their brothers, consecrated themselves, then went to purify the Lord's temple in obedience to the king and the Lord. The priests went to the sanctuary to purify it. They brought to the courtyard everything unclean from within the temple. The Levites, then, carried them out to the Kidron Valley. By the 8th day of the 1st month, they reached the portico. By the 16th day, they finished consecrating the actual temple.
They reported to King Hezekiah that they had purified the entire temple, the altar of burnt offerings and its utensils, the table for the consecrated bread and its articles. They consecrated all of the articles King Ahaz had removed and placed them in front of the Lord's altar.
Early the next morning, King Hezekiah gathered the city officials and went up to the Lord's temple. They brought 7 bulls, 7 rams, 7 male lambs, and 7 male goats as a sin offering for the kingdom, sanctuary, and Judah. The king commanded the priests, the descendants of Aaron, to offer them on the Lord's altar. They slaughtered the bulls and sprinkled their blood on the altar. They did the same with the rams, then the lambs. The goats for the sin offering were brought to the king and assembly. They laid their hands on the goats. The priest slaughtered the goats and presented their blood on the altar, to atone for all Israel. They did as the king had ordered for the burnt and sin offerings.
Hezekiah stationed the Levites in the temple, with cymbals, harps, and lyres, as prescribed by David, Gad the king's seer, and Nathan the prophet. The Lord commanded this through His prophets. The Levites stood ready with David's instruments, and the priests with their trumpets. Hezekiah ordered the burn offerings sacrificed on the altar. As it began, so did singing to the Lord, with the trumpets and instruments. The whole assemble bowed in worship, while music went on, until the burnt offering was complete. Then, the king and everyone present knelt down and worshiped God. Hezekiah and his officials ordered the Levites to praise the Lord, with the words of David and Asaph the seer. They sang praises with gladness, bowed their heads, and worshiped.
Hezekiah said that they'd dedicated themselves to the Lord. He invited the people to bring sacrifices and thank offerings to the Lord's temple. The assembly did so, and those with willing hearts brought burnt offerings. The number of burnt offerings from the assembly: 70 bulls, 100 rams, and 200 male lambs. The number of animals consecrated as sacrifices: 600 bulls; 3,000 sheep and goats.
There were too few priests to skin all the burnt offerings. So, their kinsmen, the Levites, helped them until the task was done or until the other priests had been consecrated. The Levites had been more conscientious in consecrating themselves than the priests had been. There were burnt offerings in abundance, as well as the fat of the fellowship (peace) offerings, and drink offerings with the burnt offerings.
The service of the Lord's temple was reestablished. Hezekiah and all the people rejoiced at what God had brought about for His people, because it was done so quickly.
Lori's Thoughts:
The Israelites wouldn't have been able to turn things around without God. As we have read, without God, they destroy themselves. Instead of sacrificing their children and worshiping idols, they sacrificed animals and worshiped the living God.
Sometimes, worshiping God is tedious. It took hard labor to restore the temple and to atone for their sins. Sometimes, Bible studies are tedious. But, I guarantee you that they're worth it. No one ever became physically fit or achieved a doctorate degree without hard work. So, we become spiritually fit by obeying God's instructions. The end results more than compensate for the work required. And God will never overwhelm us.
Just as the temple was purified, so are our hearts. "For out the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false testimony, slander." (Matthew 15:19) The Holy Spirit does the purging. Jesus is our sacrificial Lamb, and we are at one with God. If that doesn't put a song in your heart, nothing will.
Praise Him! "Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us, to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen." (Ephesians 3:20-21)
Hezekiah Purifies the Temple
Verses 1 - 36
King Hezekiah: 25 years old when he became king
- reigned in Jerusalem for 29 years
- mother: Abijah daughter of Zechariah
- did right in God's eyes, as David had done
The first month in the first year of his reign:
- opened the temple doors and repaired them
- assembled the priests & Levites on the east side of the square
- gave them these instructions: consecrate themselves and the temple of the Lord, removing all defilement
Their fathers had been unfaithful and evil; they had forsook God. They turned their backs on God, shutting the portico doors and putting out the lamps. They did not burn incense or present burnt offerings in God's sanctuary. Therefore, God's anger had fallen on Jerusalem and Judah. They had become objects of dread, horror, and scorn. This is why their fathers had been killed by the sword and their sons, daughters, and wives were now in captivity.
King Hezekiah intended to make a covenant with God, to turn His anger from them. He told the priests and Levites, calling them sons, to not be negligent, because God had chosen them to stand before Him, serve Him, minister before Him, and to burn incense.
These are the Levites that went to work: [s. = "son of"]
- from the Kohathites - Mahath s. Amasai, Joel s. Azariah
- from the Merarites - Kish s. Abdi, Azariah s. Jehallelel
- from the Gershonites - Joah s. Zimmah, Eden s. Joah
- descendants of Elizaphan - Shimir & Jeiel
- descendants of Asaph - Zechariah & Mattaniah
- descendants of Heman - Jehiel & Shimei
- descendants of Jeduthun - Shemaiah & Uzziel
They assembled their brothers, consecrated themselves, then went to purify the Lord's temple in obedience to the king and the Lord. The priests went to the sanctuary to purify it. They brought to the courtyard everything unclean from within the temple. The Levites, then, carried them out to the Kidron Valley. By the 8th day of the 1st month, they reached the portico. By the 16th day, they finished consecrating the actual temple.
They reported to King Hezekiah that they had purified the entire temple, the altar of burnt offerings and its utensils, the table for the consecrated bread and its articles. They consecrated all of the articles King Ahaz had removed and placed them in front of the Lord's altar.
Early the next morning, King Hezekiah gathered the city officials and went up to the Lord's temple. They brought 7 bulls, 7 rams, 7 male lambs, and 7 male goats as a sin offering for the kingdom, sanctuary, and Judah. The king commanded the priests, the descendants of Aaron, to offer them on the Lord's altar. They slaughtered the bulls and sprinkled their blood on the altar. They did the same with the rams, then the lambs. The goats for the sin offering were brought to the king and assembly. They laid their hands on the goats. The priest slaughtered the goats and presented their blood on the altar, to atone for all Israel. They did as the king had ordered for the burnt and sin offerings.
Hezekiah stationed the Levites in the temple, with cymbals, harps, and lyres, as prescribed by David, Gad the king's seer, and Nathan the prophet. The Lord commanded this through His prophets. The Levites stood ready with David's instruments, and the priests with their trumpets. Hezekiah ordered the burn offerings sacrificed on the altar. As it began, so did singing to the Lord, with the trumpets and instruments. The whole assemble bowed in worship, while music went on, until the burnt offering was complete. Then, the king and everyone present knelt down and worshiped God. Hezekiah and his officials ordered the Levites to praise the Lord, with the words of David and Asaph the seer. They sang praises with gladness, bowed their heads, and worshiped.
Hezekiah said that they'd dedicated themselves to the Lord. He invited the people to bring sacrifices and thank offerings to the Lord's temple. The assembly did so, and those with willing hearts brought burnt offerings. The number of burnt offerings from the assembly: 70 bulls, 100 rams, and 200 male lambs. The number of animals consecrated as sacrifices: 600 bulls; 3,000 sheep and goats.
There were too few priests to skin all the burnt offerings. So, their kinsmen, the Levites, helped them until the task was done or until the other priests had been consecrated. The Levites had been more conscientious in consecrating themselves than the priests had been. There were burnt offerings in abundance, as well as the fat of the fellowship (peace) offerings, and drink offerings with the burnt offerings.
The service of the Lord's temple was reestablished. Hezekiah and all the people rejoiced at what God had brought about for His people, because it was done so quickly.
Lori's Thoughts:
The Israelites wouldn't have been able to turn things around without God. As we have read, without God, they destroy themselves. Instead of sacrificing their children and worshiping idols, they sacrificed animals and worshiped the living God.
Sometimes, worshiping God is tedious. It took hard labor to restore the temple and to atone for their sins. Sometimes, Bible studies are tedious. But, I guarantee you that they're worth it. No one ever became physically fit or achieved a doctorate degree without hard work. So, we become spiritually fit by obeying God's instructions. The end results more than compensate for the work required. And God will never overwhelm us.
Just as the temple was purified, so are our hearts. "For out the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false testimony, slander." (Matthew 15:19) The Holy Spirit does the purging. Jesus is our sacrificial Lamb, and we are at one with God. If that doesn't put a song in your heart, nothing will.
Praise Him! "Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us, to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen." (Ephesians 3:20-21)
Thursday, July 14, 2011
Matthew 17: Part II - The Healing of a Boy With a Demon (NIV)
Summary:
The Healing of a Boy With a Demon
Verses 14-23
When Jesus, Peter, James, and John arrived to the crowd, a man came up to Jesus and knelt before Him. He asked for mercy for his son, who had seizures and great suffering. Many times, his son fell into the fire or water. He had brought his son to Jesus' disciples, but they couldn't heal him.
Jesus called the current generation unbelieving and perverse, asking how long He would stay and put up with them. He told the man to bring Him the boy. Jesus rebuked the demon and it left. The boy was healed at that moment.
The disciples came to Jesus privately and asked why they couldn't drive out the demon. Jesus said it was because they had so little faith. He said, " 'I tell you the truth, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, "Move from here to there", and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you. But this kind does not go out except by prayer and fasting.' " (Verses 20b-21)
When they regrouped in Galilee, Jesus told them that the Son of Man would be betrayed by men. They would kill Him and He'd be raised up on the third day. The disciples grieved over this.
Lori's Thoughts:
I mentioned yesterday that only three disciples had a connection close enough to Jesus, that they were allowed to see Him in His heavenly form. The fact that the other disciples could not drive out the demon from this boy shows you what little faith they had, which is why they were not ready to see the divine Jesus.
A mustard seed is quite small. Sometimes, in this life, we get discouraged by evil and forget to focus on the solution. We see the results of evil, because the devil throws them in our face - cancer, everyone else's success, hate crimes, etc. We need a daily connection with Christ to get to the point where we focus on Him, trusting His will and timing, to set all things right.
For a while, I silently suffered, wondering where my life is going. I felt like I kept being told to just wait and see a little longer. Well, I got impatient and started to doubt that God even sees me, which is ridiculous. Think about who you love the most. Someone you'd die for, before letting them be harmed. It can be a child, a friend, even a pet. Where does that great love come from? It comes from God. God cares for you, individually, in a similar way, but much more deeply, because He is perfect. Sometimes He keeps things from us or makes us wait for our benefit. I say He cares for us as individuals, because the way He interacts with me is different than the way He interacts with, say, my brother.
I reached a low point last week and wept. I wanted to jump out of my own skin. Sometimes this physical human body is so frustrating. Well, I had an iota of hope and listened to the voice telling me to hold on a little bit longer. The next morning, God told me, "See. The sun always comes up." Later that day, He showed me a job opportunity in my home state. I'm going for it! I'm trusting Him to make it work out, if He wants me there. I'm trusting His judgment.
I think we know by now that Jesus usually speaks figuratively. When He said that we could move mountains with a mustard seed of hope, I think He meant moving spiritual mountains. The demon in the boy was a stronger kind, that required purification on the disciples' part to drive it out. By prayer and fasting, our bodies grow weak, but our spirits grow strong, because we are leaning on God that much more.
This demon was the mountain. With mustard seed faith, that is a close connection with our Father, evil has to flee when we rebuke it.
Fortunately, the boy's father did not place his hope in man. When man failed, He went directly to the Source. The father acted on his faith by seeking Jesus, worshiping Him, and bringing his problem to Christ. The father's request for mercy was immediately answered and his son was whole. Imagine what you can do for others with your prayer requests, if you have faith.
Now, the disciples grieved, because their greatest friend would suffer and die. That's completely understandable. But, they were focusing on the first part of Jesus' statement. The second part was that He'd rise again. Death would not defeat Him!
People, we will grieve in this life. "...we do not want you to be ignorant about those who fall asleep, or to grieve like the rest of men, who have no hope." (I Thessalonians 4:13) Don't forget that Christ has conquered death, suffering, and all evil. Once His kingdom is prepared for us and we are prepared for it, He will take us home. Do you believe it?
Summary...
The Temple Tax
Verses 24-27
Jesus and His disciples went to Capernaum. The two-drachma tax collectors asked Peter if his teacher pays the temple tax. Peter said yes. Peter, then, went to the house and Jesus spoke up first. He asked Peter from whom the earthly kings collect their duties and taxes - from their sons or others? Peter answered from others. Jesus said, then, that the sons are exempt. But to not offend the tax collectors, Jesus sent Peter to go fishing in the lake. The first fish he'd catch would have a four-drachma coin in its mouth. Peter was to use it to pay both their taxes.
Lori's Thoughts...
Jesus is above money. He relied on God for His provisions. Remember the angels that cared for Him after His 40-day fast and temptations in the desert? Jesus did not pay the temple tax, because He had already given His whole self to God. He is God! But, the earthly church leaders focused on money and things beneath God.
Once again, Jesus was patient and gave the tax collectors what they wanted. I just hope they took their eyes off of the shiny coin and realized in whose presence they were. One of them is worth phenomenally more than the other.
The Healing of a Boy With a Demon
Verses 14-23
When Jesus, Peter, James, and John arrived to the crowd, a man came up to Jesus and knelt before Him. He asked for mercy for his son, who had seizures and great suffering. Many times, his son fell into the fire or water. He had brought his son to Jesus' disciples, but they couldn't heal him.
Jesus called the current generation unbelieving and perverse, asking how long He would stay and put up with them. He told the man to bring Him the boy. Jesus rebuked the demon and it left. The boy was healed at that moment.
The disciples came to Jesus privately and asked why they couldn't drive out the demon. Jesus said it was because they had so little faith. He said, " 'I tell you the truth, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, "Move from here to there", and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you. But this kind does not go out except by prayer and fasting.' " (Verses 20b-21)
When they regrouped in Galilee, Jesus told them that the Son of Man would be betrayed by men. They would kill Him and He'd be raised up on the third day. The disciples grieved over this.
Lori's Thoughts:
I mentioned yesterday that only three disciples had a connection close enough to Jesus, that they were allowed to see Him in His heavenly form. The fact that the other disciples could not drive out the demon from this boy shows you what little faith they had, which is why they were not ready to see the divine Jesus.
A mustard seed is quite small. Sometimes, in this life, we get discouraged by evil and forget to focus on the solution. We see the results of evil, because the devil throws them in our face - cancer, everyone else's success, hate crimes, etc. We need a daily connection with Christ to get to the point where we focus on Him, trusting His will and timing, to set all things right.
For a while, I silently suffered, wondering where my life is going. I felt like I kept being told to just wait and see a little longer. Well, I got impatient and started to doubt that God even sees me, which is ridiculous. Think about who you love the most. Someone you'd die for, before letting them be harmed. It can be a child, a friend, even a pet. Where does that great love come from? It comes from God. God cares for you, individually, in a similar way, but much more deeply, because He is perfect. Sometimes He keeps things from us or makes us wait for our benefit. I say He cares for us as individuals, because the way He interacts with me is different than the way He interacts with, say, my brother.
I reached a low point last week and wept. I wanted to jump out of my own skin. Sometimes this physical human body is so frustrating. Well, I had an iota of hope and listened to the voice telling me to hold on a little bit longer. The next morning, God told me, "See. The sun always comes up." Later that day, He showed me a job opportunity in my home state. I'm going for it! I'm trusting Him to make it work out, if He wants me there. I'm trusting His judgment.
I think we know by now that Jesus usually speaks figuratively. When He said that we could move mountains with a mustard seed of hope, I think He meant moving spiritual mountains. The demon in the boy was a stronger kind, that required purification on the disciples' part to drive it out. By prayer and fasting, our bodies grow weak, but our spirits grow strong, because we are leaning on God that much more.
This demon was the mountain. With mustard seed faith, that is a close connection with our Father, evil has to flee when we rebuke it.
Fortunately, the boy's father did not place his hope in man. When man failed, He went directly to the Source. The father acted on his faith by seeking Jesus, worshiping Him, and bringing his problem to Christ. The father's request for mercy was immediately answered and his son was whole. Imagine what you can do for others with your prayer requests, if you have faith.
Now, the disciples grieved, because their greatest friend would suffer and die. That's completely understandable. But, they were focusing on the first part of Jesus' statement. The second part was that He'd rise again. Death would not defeat Him!
People, we will grieve in this life. "...we do not want you to be ignorant about those who fall asleep, or to grieve like the rest of men, who have no hope." (I Thessalonians 4:13) Don't forget that Christ has conquered death, suffering, and all evil. Once His kingdom is prepared for us and we are prepared for it, He will take us home. Do you believe it?
Summary...
The Temple Tax
Verses 24-27
Jesus and His disciples went to Capernaum. The two-drachma tax collectors asked Peter if his teacher pays the temple tax. Peter said yes. Peter, then, went to the house and Jesus spoke up first. He asked Peter from whom the earthly kings collect their duties and taxes - from their sons or others? Peter answered from others. Jesus said, then, that the sons are exempt. But to not offend the tax collectors, Jesus sent Peter to go fishing in the lake. The first fish he'd catch would have a four-drachma coin in its mouth. Peter was to use it to pay both their taxes.
Lori's Thoughts...
Jesus is above money. He relied on God for His provisions. Remember the angels that cared for Him after His 40-day fast and temptations in the desert? Jesus did not pay the temple tax, because He had already given His whole self to God. He is God! But, the earthly church leaders focused on money and things beneath God.
Once again, Jesus was patient and gave the tax collectors what they wanted. I just hope they took their eyes off of the shiny coin and realized in whose presence they were. One of them is worth phenomenally more than the other.
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
Matthew 17: Part I - The Transfiguration (NIV)
Summary:
The Transfiguration
Verses 1-13
Six days later, Jesus took Peter, James and his brother John, up to a high mountain, away from everyone. Jesus was transfigured before them. His face shone like the sun and His clothes were as white as light. Moses and Elijah appeared and spoke with Him. Peter offered to build shelters for the three of them. A voice from a bright cloud enveloped them and interrupted Peter. The voice said, " 'This is my Son, whom I love; with Him I am well pleased. Listen to Him!' " (Verse 5b)
The disciples fell in terror when they heard this. Jesus touched them and told them to get up and not fear. They got up and saw only Jesus. They all descended the mountain and Jesus told them not to tell anyone about this until the Son of Man is raised from the dead.
The disciples asked Him why the law teachers say that Elijah must come first. Jesus said that Elijah comes and restores all things. He has already come, but they did not recognize him. They did whatever they wanted to him. Similarly, the Son of Man will suffer at their hands. The disciples understood that He was talking about John the Baptist. (Seems like they were a bit wiser now, since Jesus didn't have to explain this 'parable' to them.)
Lori's Thoughts:
As we grow closer to Christ, He reveals more of Himself to us, but only what we can handle. The disciples were the closest to Him, and three were allowed to see His glory revealed. Even these three were terrified at Jesus' heavenly form. This is a humbling notion for me, because I don't believe I'm as faith-filled or connected as the disciples were to Christ. I'm sure I'd die if I saw God. However, I know He's working on me, to sanctify me, so that I am prepared to live with Him when He returns. He's doing the same for you.
The transfiguration shows me how magnificent God is. It is comforting to know that someone that grand and unfathomable has my destiny in His hands. Would you trust a human with the same? I wouldn't.
I wonder if Moses and Elijah were comforting Jesus, because He would die soon. Someone once pointed out to me that Elijah had been taken alive to heaven. Moses had died, then was taken to heaven. Maybe they shared their hope for life beyond this earth to encourage Christ. God also spoke up to let His Son know that He was doing well and was making His Father proud. I wish all families were like this. There'd be confident people instead of insecure ones that seek all the wrong things to cope. God loves you. He is the answer. (Take it from someone who sought other answers in the past and experienced an epic fail.)
It seems like the disciples lived to the extreme with Jesus. They went through storms that He calmed, they battled the law teachers, they healed the sick, they saw King Jesus and were terrified. Jesus comforted them immediately. When we are afraid, Jesus is ready to tend to us. All we have to do is ask for His presence.
Third Day "Call My Name"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qu0g5Y4uxww&feature=related
I think what they mean about Elijah coming first is that Elijah prepared the hearts of Israel to receive God through the old covenant, and John the Baptist prepared their hearts to receive Christ through the new covenant. However, only a few accepted the message. The current ones killed the messenger and would kill the Savior. The good news is that there is salvation for us all.
" 'Anyone who speaks a word against the Son of Man will be forgiven, but anyone who speaks against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven, either in this age or in the age to come.' " (Matthew 12:32)
The Transfiguration
Verses 1-13
Six days later, Jesus took Peter, James and his brother John, up to a high mountain, away from everyone. Jesus was transfigured before them. His face shone like the sun and His clothes were as white as light. Moses and Elijah appeared and spoke with Him. Peter offered to build shelters for the three of them. A voice from a bright cloud enveloped them and interrupted Peter. The voice said, " 'This is my Son, whom I love; with Him I am well pleased. Listen to Him!' " (Verse 5b)
The disciples fell in terror when they heard this. Jesus touched them and told them to get up and not fear. They got up and saw only Jesus. They all descended the mountain and Jesus told them not to tell anyone about this until the Son of Man is raised from the dead.
The disciples asked Him why the law teachers say that Elijah must come first. Jesus said that Elijah comes and restores all things. He has already come, but they did not recognize him. They did whatever they wanted to him. Similarly, the Son of Man will suffer at their hands. The disciples understood that He was talking about John the Baptist. (Seems like they were a bit wiser now, since Jesus didn't have to explain this 'parable' to them.)
Lori's Thoughts:
As we grow closer to Christ, He reveals more of Himself to us, but only what we can handle. The disciples were the closest to Him, and three were allowed to see His glory revealed. Even these three were terrified at Jesus' heavenly form. This is a humbling notion for me, because I don't believe I'm as faith-filled or connected as the disciples were to Christ. I'm sure I'd die if I saw God. However, I know He's working on me, to sanctify me, so that I am prepared to live with Him when He returns. He's doing the same for you.
The transfiguration shows me how magnificent God is. It is comforting to know that someone that grand and unfathomable has my destiny in His hands. Would you trust a human with the same? I wouldn't.
I wonder if Moses and Elijah were comforting Jesus, because He would die soon. Someone once pointed out to me that Elijah had been taken alive to heaven. Moses had died, then was taken to heaven. Maybe they shared their hope for life beyond this earth to encourage Christ. God also spoke up to let His Son know that He was doing well and was making His Father proud. I wish all families were like this. There'd be confident people instead of insecure ones that seek all the wrong things to cope. God loves you. He is the answer. (Take it from someone who sought other answers in the past and experienced an epic fail.)
It seems like the disciples lived to the extreme with Jesus. They went through storms that He calmed, they battled the law teachers, they healed the sick, they saw King Jesus and were terrified. Jesus comforted them immediately. When we are afraid, Jesus is ready to tend to us. All we have to do is ask for His presence.
Third Day "Call My Name"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qu0g5Y4uxww&feature=related
I think what they mean about Elijah coming first is that Elijah prepared the hearts of Israel to receive God through the old covenant, and John the Baptist prepared their hearts to receive Christ through the new covenant. However, only a few accepted the message. The current ones killed the messenger and would kill the Savior. The good news is that there is salvation for us all.
" 'Anyone who speaks a word against the Son of Man will be forgiven, but anyone who speaks against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven, either in this age or in the age to come.' " (Matthew 12:32)
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
II Chronicles 28 - Ahaz King of Judah (NIV)
Summary:
Ahaz King of Judah
Verses 1-27
Ahaz was 20 years old when he became king. He reigned in Jerusalem for 16 years. Unlike his father (ancestor) David, he did evil in God's eyes. He walked in the ways of the Israelite kings by making cast idols to worship the Baals, burning sacrifices in the Valley of Ben Hinnom, and sacrificing his sons in the fire. Judah behaved like the nations that God had driven out from Israel. They offered sacrifices and burnt incense at the high places, hilltops, and every spreading tree.
God allowed the Arameans to defeat Ahaz and to take many people as prisoners to Damascus. He allowed Israel to inflict many casualties on Ahaz. In one day, Pekah son of Remaliah killed 120,000 soldiers in Judah, because they had forsaken God. Zicri, an Ephraimite warrior, killed Maaseiah son of Ahaz; Azrikam, the palace officer; and Elkanah, the king's second. The Israelites took 200,000 wives, sons, daughters, and a lot of plunder to Samaria.
The Lord's prophet, Oded, met the army in Samaria. He told Israel that God had given them Judah, because He was angry with them. But, Israel had slaughtered Judah in a rage that reached heaven, and they were planning on making the Judeans their slaves. However, Israel was also guilty before God. God commanded them to send back their fellow countrymen, because God's fierce anger rested on Israel.
Some of the Ephraimite leaders - Azariah son of Jehohanan, Berekiah son of Meshillemoth, Jehizkiah son of Shallum, and Amasa son of Hadlai - confronted those arriving from war. They told the soldiers to send back the prisoners, because they would otherwise add to their great sin and guilt. So, the soldiers surrendered the prisoners and plunder in front of everyone. Men, designated by name, clothed, fed, and supplied, with healing balm, the prisoners. They gave donkeys to the weak and returned them all to Jericho, the City of Palms. The soldiers, then, returned to Samaria.
Meanwhile, King Ahaz sent to Assyria for help. The Edomites had attacked Judah and taken prisoners, while Philistines raided the towns in the foothills and the Negev of Judah. They captured and occupied Beth Shemesh, Aijalon, Gederoth, Soco, Timnah, Gizmo, and their surrounding villages. The Lord humbled Judah, because of Ahaz, who had promoted wickedness and unfaithfulness. Tiglath-Pileser, the king of Assyria, gave Ahaz trouble, not help. Ahaz took things from the temple, royal palace, and from the princes to give to Tiglath-Pileser, but it didn't help.
Ahaz, then, became even more unfaithful. He sacrificed to the gods of Damascus, because he thought they were stronger, since he'd been defeated by Damascus. This led to his and all of Israel's downfall. He took all the furnishings away from the temple and shut the temple doors. He set up altars at every street corner in Jerusalem. He also built high places for other gods in every town, which provoked God's anger.
The other events of Ahaz are written in the book of the kings of Judah and Israel. He rested with his fathers and was buried in Jerusalem, but not in the tombs of Israel's kings. His son, Hezekiah, then became king.
Lori's Thoughts:
Although Judah was guilty, Israel was also guilty, and for much longer. Although Judah was sporadically righteous, God did not allow them to be wiped out. When we sin, God allows us to be punished, so we will learn the consequences of our actions. He looks for the gaps in our sinful nature to save us.
Isn't that incredible?! God never looks at the gaps in our righteousness to condemn us. But, He does work with us to remove our unrighteousness from our lives, which only hurt us.
It's interesting that some of the Israelites feared God enough to obey His word through the prophet Oded. However, they were unwilling to turn back to Him. I hope the devil never gets such a strong hold on any of you. But, my God is greater and can save you, if you are that deep, if you want Him to.
Not only were the Judeans set free, they were sent with supplies for their journey.
"And my God will meet all your needs, according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:19)
Ahaz King of Judah
Verses 1-27
Ahaz was 20 years old when he became king. He reigned in Jerusalem for 16 years. Unlike his father (ancestor) David, he did evil in God's eyes. He walked in the ways of the Israelite kings by making cast idols to worship the Baals, burning sacrifices in the Valley of Ben Hinnom, and sacrificing his sons in the fire. Judah behaved like the nations that God had driven out from Israel. They offered sacrifices and burnt incense at the high places, hilltops, and every spreading tree.
God allowed the Arameans to defeat Ahaz and to take many people as prisoners to Damascus. He allowed Israel to inflict many casualties on Ahaz. In one day, Pekah son of Remaliah killed 120,000 soldiers in Judah, because they had forsaken God. Zicri, an Ephraimite warrior, killed Maaseiah son of Ahaz; Azrikam, the palace officer; and Elkanah, the king's second. The Israelites took 200,000 wives, sons, daughters, and a lot of plunder to Samaria.
The Lord's prophet, Oded, met the army in Samaria. He told Israel that God had given them Judah, because He was angry with them. But, Israel had slaughtered Judah in a rage that reached heaven, and they were planning on making the Judeans their slaves. However, Israel was also guilty before God. God commanded them to send back their fellow countrymen, because God's fierce anger rested on Israel.
Some of the Ephraimite leaders - Azariah son of Jehohanan, Berekiah son of Meshillemoth, Jehizkiah son of Shallum, and Amasa son of Hadlai - confronted those arriving from war. They told the soldiers to send back the prisoners, because they would otherwise add to their great sin and guilt. So, the soldiers surrendered the prisoners and plunder in front of everyone. Men, designated by name, clothed, fed, and supplied, with healing balm, the prisoners. They gave donkeys to the weak and returned them all to Jericho, the City of Palms. The soldiers, then, returned to Samaria.
Meanwhile, King Ahaz sent to Assyria for help. The Edomites had attacked Judah and taken prisoners, while Philistines raided the towns in the foothills and the Negev of Judah. They captured and occupied Beth Shemesh, Aijalon, Gederoth, Soco, Timnah, Gizmo, and their surrounding villages. The Lord humbled Judah, because of Ahaz, who had promoted wickedness and unfaithfulness. Tiglath-Pileser, the king of Assyria, gave Ahaz trouble, not help. Ahaz took things from the temple, royal palace, and from the princes to give to Tiglath-Pileser, but it didn't help.
Ahaz, then, became even more unfaithful. He sacrificed to the gods of Damascus, because he thought they were stronger, since he'd been defeated by Damascus. This led to his and all of Israel's downfall. He took all the furnishings away from the temple and shut the temple doors. He set up altars at every street corner in Jerusalem. He also built high places for other gods in every town, which provoked God's anger.
The other events of Ahaz are written in the book of the kings of Judah and Israel. He rested with his fathers and was buried in Jerusalem, but not in the tombs of Israel's kings. His son, Hezekiah, then became king.
Lori's Thoughts:
Although Judah was guilty, Israel was also guilty, and for much longer. Although Judah was sporadically righteous, God did not allow them to be wiped out. When we sin, God allows us to be punished, so we will learn the consequences of our actions. He looks for the gaps in our sinful nature to save us.
Isn't that incredible?! God never looks at the gaps in our righteousness to condemn us. But, He does work with us to remove our unrighteousness from our lives, which only hurt us.
It's interesting that some of the Israelites feared God enough to obey His word through the prophet Oded. However, they were unwilling to turn back to Him. I hope the devil never gets such a strong hold on any of you. But, my God is greater and can save you, if you are that deep, if you want Him to.
Not only were the Judeans set free, they were sent with supplies for their journey.
"And my God will meet all your needs, according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:19)
Monday, July 11, 2011
Matthew 16: Part II - Peter's Confession of Christ (NIV)
Summary:
Peter's Confession of Christ
Verses 13-20
Jesus arrived in Caesarea Philippi. He asked His disciples who people said the Son of Man was. They said John the Baptist, Elijah, Jeremiah, or one of the prophets. Jesus asked who they said He was. Simon Peter said He is the Christ (Messiah), the Son of the living God. Jesus told him that he was blessed. He called him Simon son of Jonah, saying that God the Father, not man, had revealed Jesus' identity to him. Jesus called Simon 'Peter', which means 'rock', and said that He would build His church on this rock. The gates of Hades would not overcome this rock. Jesus would give him the keys of the kingdom of heaven. Whatever he would bind or loosen on earth would be bound or loosened in heaven. Jesus then warned the disciples not to tell anyone that He was the Christ.
Jesus Predicts His Death
Verses 21-28
Jesus then began to explain that He must go to Jerusalem and suffer at the hands of the elders, chief priests, and law teachers. He would be killed and raised to life on the third day. Peter took Him aside and rebuked Him, saying it would never happen. Jesus rebuked Satan, telling him to get behind Him. Satan is a stumbling block; he doesn't have in mind what God does, but what man does.
Jesus told His disciples that to follow Him, they must deny themselves and take up their cross. Those that want to save their lives will lose it. Those that lose their lives for Him will find it. What good is it to gain the world, but lose your soul? What can they exchange for their soul?
" 'For the Son of Man is going to come in His Father's glory, with His angels, and then He will reward each person according to what (s)he has done. I tell you the truth, some who are standing here will not taste death before they see the Son of Man coming in His kingdom.' " (Verses 27-28)
Lori's Thoughts:
The Israelites saw God in the form of a cloud, which led them through the wilderness. God was with them in the ark of the covenant. For a long time, they were true to Him. Once they were established in their land, they demanded earthly kings and eventually turned away from God and back again several times. So, God sent prophets to call them back to Him. Then, He sent His Son, Jesus.
I wonder what would have happened if the Israelites had accepted Jesus as their Savior? Would Jesus have needed to die? Would He have taken Israel home and destroyed the rest of us?
Unfortunately, Israel no longer recognized their God or the grand gesture to save them by becoming a human to interact directly with us.
Have you ever tried to help an animal, but it freaks out? The animal doesn't know your intentions or understand your higher language. If you transformed into that animal, you'd be able to communicate with them much more effectively. Then, you could work together to get the animals to safety.
This is what Jesus did for us. We are unable to see God without dying, because we are sinful creatures. We don't understand His mode of communication, because we are lesser beings. So, Jesus became like us to communicate with us directly and work with us for our salvation.
Peter's confession of Jesus being the Son of God and Man is an example of how God speaks to us. Because of his connection with Christ, Peter began to understand God's plan in his life and in the lives of all humans.
The real church is in our hearts. Some would call them our souls. If we surrender the mastership of our souls to God, Christ will fortify our souls by building His church upon them. We will, then, be protected from the power of Satan. Christ will give us the key (I believe this is figurative) to heaven.
I'm not sure what He means about the binding and loosening on earth and heaven...
Every person must choose for themselves whether or not they believe in God and accept His salvation. This is why Jesus told the disciples not to tell people that He is Christ. Faith is a journey that we must initiate for ourselves. Just say yes.
. . .
Even those of us connected to God can be influenced by Satan. I'm sure Peter wanted to protect Jesus from harm. Satan was playing on human emotion to prevent salvation for anyone. But, Jesus saw the lie. When we are connected to God, we will be shown deceit when it arrives. Those not connected to God will be deceived.
Jesus rebuked Satan, not Peter. However, I'm sure Peter was humbled by this experience and tested his thoughts, in the future, before speaking them. We must do the same with humans. They may be unaware of how Satan is using them. Remember that they are children of God. They're just lost. Rebuke the devil and point the people towards God.
To follow God, we must abandon selfish ambitions - defining ourselves by our career, wealth, status, etc. To truly live, surrender yourself to God. You will gain life, love, joy, endurance in hardships, peace, etc. Most importantly, you will gain eternal life and protection for your soul.
Jesus will come again and we will be rewarded according to our actions, which are a reflection of whom we serve. Love for God and fellow humans - we serve God. Love for ourselves - we serve the god of self, Satan.
Jesus said that some standing there would see His return before they died. How is this possible, if it's 2,000 years later and Christ hasn't returned yet? Have you read Revelation?
Peter's Confession of Christ
Verses 13-20
Jesus arrived in Caesarea Philippi. He asked His disciples who people said the Son of Man was. They said John the Baptist, Elijah, Jeremiah, or one of the prophets. Jesus asked who they said He was. Simon Peter said He is the Christ (Messiah), the Son of the living God. Jesus told him that he was blessed. He called him Simon son of Jonah, saying that God the Father, not man, had revealed Jesus' identity to him. Jesus called Simon 'Peter', which means 'rock', and said that He would build His church on this rock. The gates of Hades would not overcome this rock. Jesus would give him the keys of the kingdom of heaven. Whatever he would bind or loosen on earth would be bound or loosened in heaven. Jesus then warned the disciples not to tell anyone that He was the Christ.
Jesus Predicts His Death
Verses 21-28
Jesus then began to explain that He must go to Jerusalem and suffer at the hands of the elders, chief priests, and law teachers. He would be killed and raised to life on the third day. Peter took Him aside and rebuked Him, saying it would never happen. Jesus rebuked Satan, telling him to get behind Him. Satan is a stumbling block; he doesn't have in mind what God does, but what man does.
Jesus told His disciples that to follow Him, they must deny themselves and take up their cross. Those that want to save their lives will lose it. Those that lose their lives for Him will find it. What good is it to gain the world, but lose your soul? What can they exchange for their soul?
" 'For the Son of Man is going to come in His Father's glory, with His angels, and then He will reward each person according to what (s)he has done. I tell you the truth, some who are standing here will not taste death before they see the Son of Man coming in His kingdom.' " (Verses 27-28)
Lori's Thoughts:
The Israelites saw God in the form of a cloud, which led them through the wilderness. God was with them in the ark of the covenant. For a long time, they were true to Him. Once they were established in their land, they demanded earthly kings and eventually turned away from God and back again several times. So, God sent prophets to call them back to Him. Then, He sent His Son, Jesus.
I wonder what would have happened if the Israelites had accepted Jesus as their Savior? Would Jesus have needed to die? Would He have taken Israel home and destroyed the rest of us?
Unfortunately, Israel no longer recognized their God or the grand gesture to save them by becoming a human to interact directly with us.
Have you ever tried to help an animal, but it freaks out? The animal doesn't know your intentions or understand your higher language. If you transformed into that animal, you'd be able to communicate with them much more effectively. Then, you could work together to get the animals to safety.
This is what Jesus did for us. We are unable to see God without dying, because we are sinful creatures. We don't understand His mode of communication, because we are lesser beings. So, Jesus became like us to communicate with us directly and work with us for our salvation.
Peter's confession of Jesus being the Son of God and Man is an example of how God speaks to us. Because of his connection with Christ, Peter began to understand God's plan in his life and in the lives of all humans.
The real church is in our hearts. Some would call them our souls. If we surrender the mastership of our souls to God, Christ will fortify our souls by building His church upon them. We will, then, be protected from the power of Satan. Christ will give us the key (I believe this is figurative) to heaven.
I'm not sure what He means about the binding and loosening on earth and heaven...
Every person must choose for themselves whether or not they believe in God and accept His salvation. This is why Jesus told the disciples not to tell people that He is Christ. Faith is a journey that we must initiate for ourselves. Just say yes.
. . .
Even those of us connected to God can be influenced by Satan. I'm sure Peter wanted to protect Jesus from harm. Satan was playing on human emotion to prevent salvation for anyone. But, Jesus saw the lie. When we are connected to God, we will be shown deceit when it arrives. Those not connected to God will be deceived.
Jesus rebuked Satan, not Peter. However, I'm sure Peter was humbled by this experience and tested his thoughts, in the future, before speaking them. We must do the same with humans. They may be unaware of how Satan is using them. Remember that they are children of God. They're just lost. Rebuke the devil and point the people towards God.
To follow God, we must abandon selfish ambitions - defining ourselves by our career, wealth, status, etc. To truly live, surrender yourself to God. You will gain life, love, joy, endurance in hardships, peace, etc. Most importantly, you will gain eternal life and protection for your soul.
Jesus will come again and we will be rewarded according to our actions, which are a reflection of whom we serve. Love for God and fellow humans - we serve God. Love for ourselves - we serve the god of self, Satan.
Jesus said that some standing there would see His return before they died. How is this possible, if it's 2,000 years later and Christ hasn't returned yet? Have you read Revelation?
Friday, July 8, 2011
Matthew 16 - Part I: The Demand for a Sign (NIV)
Summary:
The Demand for a Sign
Verses 1-4
The Pharisees and Sadducees tested Jesus by asking for a sign from heaven. Jesus said that they could interpret the appearance of the sky for the weather, but could not interpret the signs of the times. Only wicked and adulterous people look for a miraculous sign, but none will be given to them, except for the sign of Jonah. Jesus then went away.
The Yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees
Verses 5-12
The disciples forgot bread when they crossed the lake. Jesus warned them to be on their guard for the yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees. The disciples thought He said so because they had forgotten the bread. Jesus heard their discussion and said that they had little faith and understanding. He reminded them of the 5 loaves for the 5,000; the 7 loaves for the 4,000; and their leftovers. He was not talking about bread. Then, He repeated for them to be aware of the yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees. The disciples then understood that He was speaking of their teachings.
Lori's Thoughts:
Although they asked for a sign, the Pharisees and Sadducees did not want to see one. They wanted to find holes in Jesus' gospel and errors in His ways. You will find what you look for. The crowds looked for a Savior. They knew they were helpless and dying without God. They didn't have to ask for a sign. Some of them knew that Jesus was the Messiah. This is how God speaks to us. Amidst the noise and the doubt, He speaks and we just know. Learn to recognize His voice.
What is the sign of Jonah? Jesus said that as Jonah was in the belly of a large fish, for 3 days, so would the Son of Man be in the heart of the earth for 3 days. (See Matthew 12) Jesus became human to die for us and fulfill the Old Testament covenant, which none of us could fulfill. "...for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." (Romans 3:23)
The disciples had focused on earthly things. They had had bread when Jesus multiplied it for the crowds. They assumed that the bread was the key. Not so. Jesus is the key. He created bread and all things. Of course, He could have manifested food if He so desired.
When Jesus spoke of yeast, He warned us to look out for the legalistic teachings of religious leaders. Anyone that does not teach that Jesus is the Son of God, or that we need Him, does not know God or understand the plan of salvation. Do not depend on humans for a spiritual relationship with your Lord and Savior.
Listen to your heart. The Holy Spirit knocks upon it, gently, and speaks to you when you answer.
The Demand for a Sign
Verses 1-4
The Pharisees and Sadducees tested Jesus by asking for a sign from heaven. Jesus said that they could interpret the appearance of the sky for the weather, but could not interpret the signs of the times. Only wicked and adulterous people look for a miraculous sign, but none will be given to them, except for the sign of Jonah. Jesus then went away.
The Yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees
Verses 5-12
The disciples forgot bread when they crossed the lake. Jesus warned them to be on their guard for the yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees. The disciples thought He said so because they had forgotten the bread. Jesus heard their discussion and said that they had little faith and understanding. He reminded them of the 5 loaves for the 5,000; the 7 loaves for the 4,000; and their leftovers. He was not talking about bread. Then, He repeated for them to be aware of the yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees. The disciples then understood that He was speaking of their teachings.
Lori's Thoughts:
Although they asked for a sign, the Pharisees and Sadducees did not want to see one. They wanted to find holes in Jesus' gospel and errors in His ways. You will find what you look for. The crowds looked for a Savior. They knew they were helpless and dying without God. They didn't have to ask for a sign. Some of them knew that Jesus was the Messiah. This is how God speaks to us. Amidst the noise and the doubt, He speaks and we just know. Learn to recognize His voice.
What is the sign of Jonah? Jesus said that as Jonah was in the belly of a large fish, for 3 days, so would the Son of Man be in the heart of the earth for 3 days. (See Matthew 12) Jesus became human to die for us and fulfill the Old Testament covenant, which none of us could fulfill. "...for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." (Romans 3:23)
The disciples had focused on earthly things. They had had bread when Jesus multiplied it for the crowds. They assumed that the bread was the key. Not so. Jesus is the key. He created bread and all things. Of course, He could have manifested food if He so desired.
When Jesus spoke of yeast, He warned us to look out for the legalistic teachings of religious leaders. Anyone that does not teach that Jesus is the Son of God, or that we need Him, does not know God or understand the plan of salvation. Do not depend on humans for a spiritual relationship with your Lord and Savior.
Listen to your heart. The Holy Spirit knocks upon it, gently, and speaks to you when you answer.
Thursday, July 7, 2011
II Chronicles 27 - Jotham King of Judah (NIV)
Summary:
Jotham King of Judah
Verses 1-8
Jotham was 25 years old when he became king. He reigned in Jerusalem for 16 years. His mother was Jerusha daughter of Zadok. He did right in God's eyes, like his father, Uzziah. However, he did not enter the temple of the Lord as Uzziah had. But, the people still practiced evil.
Jotham rebuilt the Upper Gate of the Lord's temple and did extensive work on the wall of the hill of Ophel. He built towns in the Judean hills, and he built forts and towers in the wooded areas.
He made war on the Ammonite king and conquered the people. The Ammonites paid Jotham 100 talents (3 3/4 tons) of silver; 10,000 cors (~2,200 kiloliters) of wheat; and 10,000 cors (~2,200 kiloliters) of barley. They paid this amount for three years.
Jotham worked steadfastly before God, therefore he grew powerful. His other events, including his wars and such, are written in the books of the kings of Israel and Judah. He rested with his fathers and was buried in the City of David. His son, Ahaz, then, became king.
Lori's Thoughts:
With the right combination of devotion and dependency upon God, mixed with humility, it is possible to be wealthy and powerful, while still being good. Jotham used his power to strengthen what belonged to the Lord - the temple and His people.
Unfortunately, the people were safe, but only physically. Spiritually, they had fallen away from God. But, for the sake of their righteous king, God protected them and made them prosper. This is a great example of God's mercy and patience with us.
You, with your faith alone, can help a nation be blessed. Don't lose faith. Don't lose hope. God will come through for you.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=emgv-VRtMEU
Check this song out, if you need a boost.
Mandisa "Stronger"
Jotham King of Judah
Verses 1-8
Jotham was 25 years old when he became king. He reigned in Jerusalem for 16 years. His mother was Jerusha daughter of Zadok. He did right in God's eyes, like his father, Uzziah. However, he did not enter the temple of the Lord as Uzziah had. But, the people still practiced evil.
Jotham rebuilt the Upper Gate of the Lord's temple and did extensive work on the wall of the hill of Ophel. He built towns in the Judean hills, and he built forts and towers in the wooded areas.
He made war on the Ammonite king and conquered the people. The Ammonites paid Jotham 100 talents (3 3/4 tons) of silver; 10,000 cors (~2,200 kiloliters) of wheat; and 10,000 cors (~2,200 kiloliters) of barley. They paid this amount for three years.
Jotham worked steadfastly before God, therefore he grew powerful. His other events, including his wars and such, are written in the books of the kings of Israel and Judah. He rested with his fathers and was buried in the City of David. His son, Ahaz, then, became king.
Lori's Thoughts:
With the right combination of devotion and dependency upon God, mixed with humility, it is possible to be wealthy and powerful, while still being good. Jotham used his power to strengthen what belonged to the Lord - the temple and His people.
Unfortunately, the people were safe, but only physically. Spiritually, they had fallen away from God. But, for the sake of their righteous king, God protected them and made them prosper. This is a great example of God's mercy and patience with us.
You, with your faith alone, can help a nation be blessed. Don't lose faith. Don't lose hope. God will come through for you.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=emgv-VRtMEU
Check this song out, if you need a boost.
Mandisa "Stronger"
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
Matthew 15 - Part II: The Faith of the Canaanite Woman (NIV)
Summary:
The Faith of the Canaanite Woman
Verses 21-28
Jesus left and went to Tyre and Sidon. A Canaanite woman from the area cried out to Him, calling Him Lord and the Son of David. She asked for mercy, because her daughter was suffering severely from demon-possession. Jesus didn't respond. The disciples asked Him to send her away, because she kept calling out to Him. Jesus said that He'd been sent only to the lost sheep of Israel.
The woman knelt before Him and begged for help. Jesus told her that it wasn't right to take bread from children and throw it to the dogs. The woman agreed, but said that the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their master's table. Jesus told her that she had great faith and that her request would be granted. The woman's daughter was healed at that very hour.
Jesus Feeds the Four Thousand
Verses 29-39
Jesus went along the Sea of Galilee. He sat up on the mountainside. Great crowds came and brought the lame, blind, crippled, mute, and many others. They laid the sick at His feet, and He healed all of them. The people praised the God of Israel.
Jesus told His disciples that He had compassion for the people, because they'd been with Him for three days, but had no food. He didn't want to send them away hungry, because they might faint on their travels. The disciples asked where they could get enough food. Jesus asked how many loaves of bread they had. They said seven, plus a few small fish.
Jesus told the crowds to sit. He gave thanks and broke the bread and fish. The disciples distributed the food to all the people. Everyone was filled and there were seven basketfuls left over. Jesus fed 4,000 men, plus their women and children. Jesus then sent them away, boarded a boat, and went to Magadan.
Lori's Thoughts:
I sense that Jesus was frustrated after having argued with the Pharisees and law teachers. They were the Jews, the lost sheep of Israel, that He came to save. But, they wanted nothing to do with Jesus.
I imagine that Jesus didn't respond to the woman, because He was controlling His temper. The woman came to Him, although she was from a people that worshiped false gods. She, however, recognized Jesus' divinity and came to Him for help. So far, the only interactions Israelites had with foreigners, aside from allies, were at war. She took a great risk seeking Jesus out.
Are we willing to put our lives at stake to connect with God?
Do we accept what humans tell us about how we should live and what should be important to us?
Do you have faith enough to ask God, knowing that He might say no?
This woman did. Because of her great faith, God extended Himself to a "heathen". Because of her great faith, another person was saved from Satan's grasp.
How is your faith?
. . .
Jesus made Himself accessible. He wanted us to come to Him with our problems. He healed our bodies and gave us sustenance. He had done so before, but the disciples forgot about the 5,000 he had fed with five loaves of bread and two fish. Jesus wasn't exasperated with their short-term memory. He blessed them again.
We should remember how God has come through for us in the past and know that He'll do so again in the future. Those that refuse to pay attention will miss out on His patience and mercy that He extends to us.
I think a thank you is in order.
The Faith of the Canaanite Woman
Verses 21-28
Jesus left and went to Tyre and Sidon. A Canaanite woman from the area cried out to Him, calling Him Lord and the Son of David. She asked for mercy, because her daughter was suffering severely from demon-possession. Jesus didn't respond. The disciples asked Him to send her away, because she kept calling out to Him. Jesus said that He'd been sent only to the lost sheep of Israel.
The woman knelt before Him and begged for help. Jesus told her that it wasn't right to take bread from children and throw it to the dogs. The woman agreed, but said that the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their master's table. Jesus told her that she had great faith and that her request would be granted. The woman's daughter was healed at that very hour.
Jesus Feeds the Four Thousand
Verses 29-39
Jesus went along the Sea of Galilee. He sat up on the mountainside. Great crowds came and brought the lame, blind, crippled, mute, and many others. They laid the sick at His feet, and He healed all of them. The people praised the God of Israel.
Jesus told His disciples that He had compassion for the people, because they'd been with Him for three days, but had no food. He didn't want to send them away hungry, because they might faint on their travels. The disciples asked where they could get enough food. Jesus asked how many loaves of bread they had. They said seven, plus a few small fish.
Jesus told the crowds to sit. He gave thanks and broke the bread and fish. The disciples distributed the food to all the people. Everyone was filled and there were seven basketfuls left over. Jesus fed 4,000 men, plus their women and children. Jesus then sent them away, boarded a boat, and went to Magadan.
Lori's Thoughts:
I sense that Jesus was frustrated after having argued with the Pharisees and law teachers. They were the Jews, the lost sheep of Israel, that He came to save. But, they wanted nothing to do with Jesus.
I imagine that Jesus didn't respond to the woman, because He was controlling His temper. The woman came to Him, although she was from a people that worshiped false gods. She, however, recognized Jesus' divinity and came to Him for help. So far, the only interactions Israelites had with foreigners, aside from allies, were at war. She took a great risk seeking Jesus out.
Are we willing to put our lives at stake to connect with God?
Do we accept what humans tell us about how we should live and what should be important to us?
Do you have faith enough to ask God, knowing that He might say no?
This woman did. Because of her great faith, God extended Himself to a "heathen". Because of her great faith, another person was saved from Satan's grasp.
How is your faith?
. . .
Jesus made Himself accessible. He wanted us to come to Him with our problems. He healed our bodies and gave us sustenance. He had done so before, but the disciples forgot about the 5,000 he had fed with five loaves of bread and two fish. Jesus wasn't exasperated with their short-term memory. He blessed them again.
We should remember how God has come through for us in the past and know that He'll do so again in the future. Those that refuse to pay attention will miss out on His patience and mercy that He extends to us.
I think a thank you is in order.
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
Matthew 15: Part I - Clean & Unclean (NIV)
Summary:
Clean and Unclean
Verses 1-20
Some Pharisees and teachers of the law came from Jerusalem to Jesus. They asked Him why His disciples broke the elders' tradition by not washing their hands before they ate. Jesus responded by asking them why they broke God's command for the sake of their tradition.
God tells us to honor our parents and that those who curse them must die. The Pharisees and law teachers told their parents that the help they would have received was instead devoted to God, therefore they were not honoring their parents and they were nullifying God's word for their tradition's sake.
They fulfilled the prophecy in Isaiah 29:13 - " 'These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. They worship me in vain; their teachings are but rules taught by men.' " (Verses 8-9)
Jesus told the crowd that what comes out of a man's mouth makes him unclean, not what goes into it. The disciples asked if Jesus knew that He'd offended the Pharisees. Jesus said that those not planted by God will be uprooted. Leave them; they are blind guides. They are the blind leading the blind, and all of them will fall into a pit.
Peter asked Jesus to explain His parable. Jesus asked if they were still dull. What enters the mouth goes through the stomach and out of the body. What comes from the mouth came from the heart. The heart produces evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false testimony (lies), and slander. This is what makes a man unclean, not unwashed hands.
Lori's Thoughts:
I imagine the Pharisees and law teachers plotting to deceive Jesus and come up with a legitimate reason to arrest or persecute Him. The best that these educated people came up with was, 'the disciples don't wash their hands before they eat!' Wow. Really?
By accusing Christ, they exposed their pettiness and legalism. They followed the law to a T, but missed the point of the covenant. God was reaching down to us, to connect with us. Instead, these people were trying to be God by being 'perfect' without Him. Jesus came to show us our need for Him and they called Him unclean.
"Surely you desire truth in the inner parts; you teach me wisdom in the inmost place.
"Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.
"You do not delight in sacrifice, or I would bring it; you do not take pleasure in burnt offerings. The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise."
~excerpts from Psalm 51
Clean and Unclean
Verses 1-20
Some Pharisees and teachers of the law came from Jerusalem to Jesus. They asked Him why His disciples broke the elders' tradition by not washing their hands before they ate. Jesus responded by asking them why they broke God's command for the sake of their tradition.
God tells us to honor our parents and that those who curse them must die. The Pharisees and law teachers told their parents that the help they would have received was instead devoted to God, therefore they were not honoring their parents and they were nullifying God's word for their tradition's sake.
They fulfilled the prophecy in Isaiah 29:13 - " 'These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. They worship me in vain; their teachings are but rules taught by men.' " (Verses 8-9)
Jesus told the crowd that what comes out of a man's mouth makes him unclean, not what goes into it. The disciples asked if Jesus knew that He'd offended the Pharisees. Jesus said that those not planted by God will be uprooted. Leave them; they are blind guides. They are the blind leading the blind, and all of them will fall into a pit.
Peter asked Jesus to explain His parable. Jesus asked if they were still dull. What enters the mouth goes through the stomach and out of the body. What comes from the mouth came from the heart. The heart produces evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false testimony (lies), and slander. This is what makes a man unclean, not unwashed hands.
Lori's Thoughts:
I imagine the Pharisees and law teachers plotting to deceive Jesus and come up with a legitimate reason to arrest or persecute Him. The best that these educated people came up with was, 'the disciples don't wash their hands before they eat!' Wow. Really?
By accusing Christ, they exposed their pettiness and legalism. They followed the law to a T, but missed the point of the covenant. God was reaching down to us, to connect with us. Instead, these people were trying to be God by being 'perfect' without Him. Jesus came to show us our need for Him and they called Him unclean.
"Surely you desire truth in the inner parts; you teach me wisdom in the inmost place.
"Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.
"You do not delight in sacrifice, or I would bring it; you do not take pleasure in burnt offerings. The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise."
~excerpts from Psalm 51
Friday, July 1, 2011
II Chronicles 26 - Uzziah King of Judah (NIV)
Summary:
Uzziah King of Judah
Verses 1-23
The people of Judah took Uzziah and made him king in place of his father Amaziah. He rebuilt Elath and restored it to Judah after Amaziah rested with his fathers. He was 16 years old when he was made king. He reigned in Jerusalem for 52 years. His mother was named Jecoliah, from Jerusalem. He did right in God's eyes as Amaziah had done. He sought God during the days of Zechariah, who taught him to fear God. As long as he did so, God gave him success.
Uzziah was at war with the Philistines. He broke down the walls of Gath, Jabneh, and Ashdod. He rebuilt the towns near Ashdod and elsewhere in Philistia. God helped him against the Philistines and Arabs living in Gur Baal, and against the Meunites. The Ammonites paid tribute to Uzziah and he became famous as far as the border of Egypt, because he was quite powerful.
Uzziah built and fortified towers in Jerusalem at the Corner Gate, at the Valley Gate, and at the angle of the wall. He built towers in the desert and many cisterns, because of his large amount of livestock in the foothills and the plain. People worked in his fields, in the vineyards in the hills, and in the fertile lands, because he loved the soil.
Uzziah had a well trained army. They were ready to deploy by their divisions, according to their numbers mustered by Jeiel the secretary and by Maaseiah the officer under the direction of Hananiah, one of the royal officials. The total number of family leaders over the fighting men was 2,600. Under them, was an army of 307,500 men trained for war. They were a powerful force to fight the king's enemies. Uzziah gave all of them shields, spears, helmets, coats of armor, bows, and slingshots. In Jerusalem, he made machines designed by skillful men to use on towers and corner defenses, which could shoot arrows and hurl large stones. His fame spread because he was greatly helped, until he became powerful.
Uzziah's power led to pride, which led to his downfall. He was unfaithful to God. He entered the temple to burn incense on the altar of incense. Azariah the chief priest, with 80 courageous priests of the Lord, confronted him. The priests told him that he shouldn't be there; only the descendants of Aaron were consecrated to do so. They asked him to leave, because he'd been unfaithful, and they told him that he wouldn't be honored by God.
Uzziah, with a censer for incense in his hand, raged against them. Leprosy broke out on his forehead and all the priests rushed him out. Uzziah was eager to leave because of his affliction.
Uzziah had leprosy until he died. He lived in a separate house, excluded from the temple. His son Jotham took charge of the palace and governed the land. His other events were recorded by the prophet Isaiah, the son of Amoz. Uzziah rested with his fathers and was buried near them in a field for the kings, because he had leprosy. His son, Jotham, then became king.
Lori's Thoughts:
"Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will lift you up." (James 4:10)
"Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, 'Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother when he sins against me? Up to seven times?' Jesus answered, 'I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.' " (Matthew 18:21-22)
God is quick to forgive if we are quick to repent.
Uzziah King of Judah
Verses 1-23
The people of Judah took Uzziah and made him king in place of his father Amaziah. He rebuilt Elath and restored it to Judah after Amaziah rested with his fathers. He was 16 years old when he was made king. He reigned in Jerusalem for 52 years. His mother was named Jecoliah, from Jerusalem. He did right in God's eyes as Amaziah had done. He sought God during the days of Zechariah, who taught him to fear God. As long as he did so, God gave him success.
Uzziah was at war with the Philistines. He broke down the walls of Gath, Jabneh, and Ashdod. He rebuilt the towns near Ashdod and elsewhere in Philistia. God helped him against the Philistines and Arabs living in Gur Baal, and against the Meunites. The Ammonites paid tribute to Uzziah and he became famous as far as the border of Egypt, because he was quite powerful.
Uzziah built and fortified towers in Jerusalem at the Corner Gate, at the Valley Gate, and at the angle of the wall. He built towers in the desert and many cisterns, because of his large amount of livestock in the foothills and the plain. People worked in his fields, in the vineyards in the hills, and in the fertile lands, because he loved the soil.
Uzziah had a well trained army. They were ready to deploy by their divisions, according to their numbers mustered by Jeiel the secretary and by Maaseiah the officer under the direction of Hananiah, one of the royal officials. The total number of family leaders over the fighting men was 2,600. Under them, was an army of 307,500 men trained for war. They were a powerful force to fight the king's enemies. Uzziah gave all of them shields, spears, helmets, coats of armor, bows, and slingshots. In Jerusalem, he made machines designed by skillful men to use on towers and corner defenses, which could shoot arrows and hurl large stones. His fame spread because he was greatly helped, until he became powerful.
Uzziah's power led to pride, which led to his downfall. He was unfaithful to God. He entered the temple to burn incense on the altar of incense. Azariah the chief priest, with 80 courageous priests of the Lord, confronted him. The priests told him that he shouldn't be there; only the descendants of Aaron were consecrated to do so. They asked him to leave, because he'd been unfaithful, and they told him that he wouldn't be honored by God.
Uzziah, with a censer for incense in his hand, raged against them. Leprosy broke out on his forehead and all the priests rushed him out. Uzziah was eager to leave because of his affliction.
Uzziah had leprosy until he died. He lived in a separate house, excluded from the temple. His son Jotham took charge of the palace and governed the land. His other events were recorded by the prophet Isaiah, the son of Amoz. Uzziah rested with his fathers and was buried near them in a field for the kings, because he had leprosy. His son, Jotham, then became king.
Lori's Thoughts:
"Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will lift you up." (James 4:10)
"Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, 'Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother when he sins against me? Up to seven times?' Jesus answered, 'I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.' " (Matthew 18:21-22)
God is quick to forgive if we are quick to repent.
Thursday, June 30, 2011
Matthew 14 - John the Baptist Beheaded (NIV)
Summary:
John the Baptist Beheaded
Verses 1-12
Herod the tetrarch (a ruler of 1/4 of something) heard the reports of Jesus. He told his attendants that Jesus was John the Baptist, risen from the dead. He claimed that this is how Jesus had miraculous powers. Herod had arrested and imprisoned John, because John had told him that his affair with Herodias, his brother Philip's wife, was unlawful. Herod wanted to kill John, but feared the people who revered John as a prophet.
On Herod's birthday, Herodius' daughter danced for him and pleased him so much that he vowed to give her anything she wanted. Prompted by her mother, she asked for John's head on a platter. Not wanting to go back on his word or deny his guests, he had John beheaded in prison. John's head was given to the girl on a platter and she gave it to her mother.
John's disciples took his body and buried it. Then, they went and told Jesus.
Jesus Feeds the Five Thousand
Verses 13-21
When Jesus heard the news, He withdrew by boat to a solitary place. The crowds followed Him on foot. When Jesus saw them, He had compassion and healed their sick. When evening came, the disciples told Him to send the people to the villages to get food. Jesus told them no; He told the disciples to feed them.
The disciples only had 5 loaves of bread and 2 fish. Jesus asked for them and told the people to sit on the grass. He took the bread and fish, looked up to heaven, and gave thanks. Jesus broke the bread and gave it to the disciples, who gave it to the people. 5,000 men, their women and children ate and were satisfied. The disciples had 12 basketfuls of leftover bread.
Jesus Walks on the Water
Verses 22-36
Immediately, Jesus told His disciples to get on a boat and cross to the other side as He dismissed the crowd. Once alone, He went up to the mountain to pray. At evening, He was alone and the boat was a good ways away. The wind was blowing against it.
During the fourth watch of the night (between 3:00-6:00 AM), Jesus walked out onto the lake. The disciples were terrified and cried out, claiming He was a ghost. Jesus told them to take courage and not fear, because it was Him.
Peter asked Jesus to tell him to come out on the water, if it was Him. Jesus told Peter to come. Peter left the boat and approached Jesus. When he saw the wind, he was afraid and began to sink. He cried out for Christ to save him. Jesus immediately caught him and called him a man of little faith, asking why he had doubted. They both got into the boat and the wind died down. Those in the boat worshiped Him, claiming that He was the Son of God.
When they landed, they arrived at Gennesaret. When the men recognized Jesus, they spread the word to all the surrounding country. People brought all their sick to Him, begging Him to allow them to touch the edge of His cloak. All who touched Him were healed.
Lori's Thoughts:
To cover up their adultery, Herod and Herodias committed murder. They worried more about what the people thought of them than how God viewed them. So, instead of repenting, they killed the man that was trying to save them from their sin.
Jesus' cousin had been murdered. Yes, He is God, but He is also human. Jesus needed to talk to God, to mourn and be comforted as we all do. No one really thought about Jesus' needs. They worried about their own. Jesus could have sent the crowds away, but He didn't. He saw us hurting. He saw our faith in our willingness to seek Him, even out in the middle of nowhere. We came to Him, desiring wholeness of body and spirit. But, we didn't think about our basic needs, such as food.
The disciples were probably hungry by that point. They probably wondered how they could split 5 loaves of bread and 2 fish 13 ways. Jesus thought how He could split it about 10,000 ways and have some for tomorrow.
As humans, we are limited in our abilities and in our faith. We seek simple solutions, because they're easier to believe in. Our faith should be large enough to ask for miracles. We should thank God in every situation for considering our needs and for promising to provide for all of them. "And my God will meet all your needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:19)
Only until everyone was healed and fed did Jesus send them home. He sent His disciples on and He went alone to pray. Never forget how important it is to have a personal connection with God. When Jesus died, the temple veil was torn and so was our barrier between ourselves and God. "Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need." (Hebrews 4:16) We can ask for miracles, for healing, for sustenance, physical and spiritual.
Jesus knew He still had work to do, more people to heal, more people to show His compassion to. Where most people would have said, "I missed my boat", Jesus told the water to hold His weight.
Although the disciples had experienced Jesus' miracles from within their boat, during the storm, they hadn't experience Him outside their boat. Grown men were terrified of this apparition headed right for them. We fear what we don't understand. God calms us and lets us know that He is there with us and for us.
Now, I don't know what possessed Peter to want to join Jesus. Maybe he desired to experience the supernatural. He was probably delirious with awe and maybe thought he was dreaming, since it was so late. Peter did the impossible with Jesus, until He started to doubt. Jesus loved him anyway. The moment Peter cried out for help, He was there to save him.
The moment you cry out to the Savior, He will be there!
Jesus' heart is big enough to feel sorrow and compassion. He loves us enough to set His needs aside and heal ours. We should follow His example of loving others, connecting with God, then realize that our needs have been fulfilled along the way.
John the Baptist Beheaded
Verses 1-12
Herod the tetrarch (a ruler of 1/4 of something) heard the reports of Jesus. He told his attendants that Jesus was John the Baptist, risen from the dead. He claimed that this is how Jesus had miraculous powers. Herod had arrested and imprisoned John, because John had told him that his affair with Herodias, his brother Philip's wife, was unlawful. Herod wanted to kill John, but feared the people who revered John as a prophet.
On Herod's birthday, Herodius' daughter danced for him and pleased him so much that he vowed to give her anything she wanted. Prompted by her mother, she asked for John's head on a platter. Not wanting to go back on his word or deny his guests, he had John beheaded in prison. John's head was given to the girl on a platter and she gave it to her mother.
John's disciples took his body and buried it. Then, they went and told Jesus.
Jesus Feeds the Five Thousand
Verses 13-21
When Jesus heard the news, He withdrew by boat to a solitary place. The crowds followed Him on foot. When Jesus saw them, He had compassion and healed their sick. When evening came, the disciples told Him to send the people to the villages to get food. Jesus told them no; He told the disciples to feed them.
The disciples only had 5 loaves of bread and 2 fish. Jesus asked for them and told the people to sit on the grass. He took the bread and fish, looked up to heaven, and gave thanks. Jesus broke the bread and gave it to the disciples, who gave it to the people. 5,000 men, their women and children ate and were satisfied. The disciples had 12 basketfuls of leftover bread.
Jesus Walks on the Water
Verses 22-36
Immediately, Jesus told His disciples to get on a boat and cross to the other side as He dismissed the crowd. Once alone, He went up to the mountain to pray. At evening, He was alone and the boat was a good ways away. The wind was blowing against it.
During the fourth watch of the night (between 3:00-6:00 AM), Jesus walked out onto the lake. The disciples were terrified and cried out, claiming He was a ghost. Jesus told them to take courage and not fear, because it was Him.
Peter asked Jesus to tell him to come out on the water, if it was Him. Jesus told Peter to come. Peter left the boat and approached Jesus. When he saw the wind, he was afraid and began to sink. He cried out for Christ to save him. Jesus immediately caught him and called him a man of little faith, asking why he had doubted. They both got into the boat and the wind died down. Those in the boat worshiped Him, claiming that He was the Son of God.
When they landed, they arrived at Gennesaret. When the men recognized Jesus, they spread the word to all the surrounding country. People brought all their sick to Him, begging Him to allow them to touch the edge of His cloak. All who touched Him were healed.
Lori's Thoughts:
To cover up their adultery, Herod and Herodias committed murder. They worried more about what the people thought of them than how God viewed them. So, instead of repenting, they killed the man that was trying to save them from their sin.
Jesus' cousin had been murdered. Yes, He is God, but He is also human. Jesus needed to talk to God, to mourn and be comforted as we all do. No one really thought about Jesus' needs. They worried about their own. Jesus could have sent the crowds away, but He didn't. He saw us hurting. He saw our faith in our willingness to seek Him, even out in the middle of nowhere. We came to Him, desiring wholeness of body and spirit. But, we didn't think about our basic needs, such as food.
The disciples were probably hungry by that point. They probably wondered how they could split 5 loaves of bread and 2 fish 13 ways. Jesus thought how He could split it about 10,000 ways and have some for tomorrow.
As humans, we are limited in our abilities and in our faith. We seek simple solutions, because they're easier to believe in. Our faith should be large enough to ask for miracles. We should thank God in every situation for considering our needs and for promising to provide for all of them. "And my God will meet all your needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:19)
Only until everyone was healed and fed did Jesus send them home. He sent His disciples on and He went alone to pray. Never forget how important it is to have a personal connection with God. When Jesus died, the temple veil was torn and so was our barrier between ourselves and God. "Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need." (Hebrews 4:16) We can ask for miracles, for healing, for sustenance, physical and spiritual.
Jesus knew He still had work to do, more people to heal, more people to show His compassion to. Where most people would have said, "I missed my boat", Jesus told the water to hold His weight.
Although the disciples had experienced Jesus' miracles from within their boat, during the storm, they hadn't experience Him outside their boat. Grown men were terrified of this apparition headed right for them. We fear what we don't understand. God calms us and lets us know that He is there with us and for us.
Now, I don't know what possessed Peter to want to join Jesus. Maybe he desired to experience the supernatural. He was probably delirious with awe and maybe thought he was dreaming, since it was so late. Peter did the impossible with Jesus, until He started to doubt. Jesus loved him anyway. The moment Peter cried out for help, He was there to save him.
The moment you cry out to the Savior, He will be there!
Jesus' heart is big enough to feel sorrow and compassion. He loves us enough to set His needs aside and heal ours. We should follow His example of loving others, connecting with God, then realize that our needs have been fulfilled along the way.
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
II Chronicles 25 - Amaziah King of Judah (NIV)
Summary:
Amaziah King of Judah
Verses 1-28
Amaziah was 25 years old when he became king. He reigned in Jerusalem for 29 years. His mother was Jehoaddin, from Jerusalem. Amaziah did right in God's eyes, but not wholeheartedly. Once firmly established as king, he executed the officials that had murdered his father, Joash, but he did not kill their sons. This was in accordance with the Law in the Book of Moses. In it, the Lord commanded: " 'Fathers shall not be put to death for their children, nor children put to death for their fathers; each is to die for his own sins.' " (Deuteronomy 24:16, Verse 4b)
Amaziah called together the people of Judah. He assigned them, according to their families, to commanders of thousands and hundreds, for all of Benjamin and Judah. They mustered everyone 29 years and older. He found 300,000 men ready for military service that could handle spear and shield. He also hired 100,000 fighting men from Israel, for 100 talents (3 3/4 tons) of silver. A man of God told him not to use them, because God was not with Israel or anyone from Ephraim. God would overthrow Amaziah to his enemies, because He has the power to help or overthrow. Amaziah asked the man of God about the 100 talents he'd spent, and the man of God told him that God could give him much more than that.
Amaziah dismissed the Ephraimite troops and they left in a great rage. He marshaled his strength and led his army to the Valley of Salt, where he killed 10,000 men of Seir and captured 10,000 men alive. He brought the latter group to the top of a cliff, threw them down, and they were dashed to pieces. Meanwhile, the Ephraimite troops raided the Judean towns from Samaria to Beth Horon. They killed 3,000 people and carried off a lot of plunder.
When Amaziah returned, he brought back the gods of the people of Seir and worshiped them, burning sacrifices to them. God's anger burned against him and He sent a prophet to ask why Amaziah had consulted the gods that couldn't save the people he'd just destroyed. Amaziah interrupted and asked if the prophet was the king's adviser. He told the prophet to stop, asking why he should risk being struck down. The prophet stopped, but he told Amaziah that God was determined to destroy him because of this and the fact that Amaziah would not listen to his counsel.
Amaziah consulted his advisers and sent a challenge, for a face-to-face meeting, to Jehoash son of Jehoahaz, the son of Jehu, king of Israel. Jehoash responded: A thistle in Lebanon sent a message to a cedar in Lebanon, to give his daughter to the thistle's son in marriage. A wild beast in Lebanon came and trampled the thistle. Jehoash told Amaziah that, although he'd defeated Edom, he was now arrogant and proud. Jehoash told Amaziah to stay home and not ask for trouble, which would lead to his downfall and the downfall of Judah.
Amaziah did not listen to Jehoash, because God had worked out for him to be handed over to Jehoash, because he sought the gods of Edom. Jehoash and Amaziah faced off at Beth Shemesh in Judah. Judah was routed by Israel and every man fled home. Jehoash captured Amaziah son of Joash, the son of Ahaziah, at Beth Shemesh. Amaziah was brought to Jerusalem, where Jehoash broke down their wall from the Ephraim Gate to the Corner Gate, about 600 feet of it. He took all the gold, silver, and articles of God's temple that had been cared for by Obed-Edom. He also took the palace treasures and hostages, and they returned to Samaria.
Amaziah lived for 15 years after Jehoash died. The other events of his reign are written in the book of the kings of Judah and Israel. From that time, he turned from God. They conspired against him in Jerusalem and he fled to Lachish. A man was sent after him and killed him. He was brought back by horse and buried with his fathers in the City of Judah.
Lori's Thoughts:
I don't know about you, but I'm getting annoyed with the people of Judah. How does it make any sense to worship the gods of the people you've just defeated?! The ones God helped you defeat!!!
It's a good thing I'm not God, because I would have lost patience and just destroyed the world. Then, there'd be no existence or salvation for any of us. I think God is way generous with us. So, the next time you wonder why bad things are allowed to happen, ask yourself what the people have been doing. As He said, everyone is to be punished for their own sins.
Now, if it wasn't for God's patience, we'd all be doomed to die. This is the punishment for sin. Somehow, God maintained the little good that remained in Judah and sent a part of Himself to become human and pay the punishment for our sins.
"Oh, praise the One who paid my debt and raised this life up from the dead!" (My favorite phrase to sing at church.)
People! When things seem hopeless and impossible, when good seems invisible, God will make a way!
Don't give up!
"For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans to prosper you and not harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." (Jeremiah 29:11)
Amaziah King of Judah
Verses 1-28
Amaziah was 25 years old when he became king. He reigned in Jerusalem for 29 years. His mother was Jehoaddin, from Jerusalem. Amaziah did right in God's eyes, but not wholeheartedly. Once firmly established as king, he executed the officials that had murdered his father, Joash, but he did not kill their sons. This was in accordance with the Law in the Book of Moses. In it, the Lord commanded: " 'Fathers shall not be put to death for their children, nor children put to death for their fathers; each is to die for his own sins.' " (Deuteronomy 24:16, Verse 4b)
Amaziah called together the people of Judah. He assigned them, according to their families, to commanders of thousands and hundreds, for all of Benjamin and Judah. They mustered everyone 29 years and older. He found 300,000 men ready for military service that could handle spear and shield. He also hired 100,000 fighting men from Israel, for 100 talents (3 3/4 tons) of silver. A man of God told him not to use them, because God was not with Israel or anyone from Ephraim. God would overthrow Amaziah to his enemies, because He has the power to help or overthrow. Amaziah asked the man of God about the 100 talents he'd spent, and the man of God told him that God could give him much more than that.
Amaziah dismissed the Ephraimite troops and they left in a great rage. He marshaled his strength and led his army to the Valley of Salt, where he killed 10,000 men of Seir and captured 10,000 men alive. He brought the latter group to the top of a cliff, threw them down, and they were dashed to pieces. Meanwhile, the Ephraimite troops raided the Judean towns from Samaria to Beth Horon. They killed 3,000 people and carried off a lot of plunder.
When Amaziah returned, he brought back the gods of the people of Seir and worshiped them, burning sacrifices to them. God's anger burned against him and He sent a prophet to ask why Amaziah had consulted the gods that couldn't save the people he'd just destroyed. Amaziah interrupted and asked if the prophet was the king's adviser. He told the prophet to stop, asking why he should risk being struck down. The prophet stopped, but he told Amaziah that God was determined to destroy him because of this and the fact that Amaziah would not listen to his counsel.
Amaziah consulted his advisers and sent a challenge, for a face-to-face meeting, to Jehoash son of Jehoahaz, the son of Jehu, king of Israel. Jehoash responded: A thistle in Lebanon sent a message to a cedar in Lebanon, to give his daughter to the thistle's son in marriage. A wild beast in Lebanon came and trampled the thistle. Jehoash told Amaziah that, although he'd defeated Edom, he was now arrogant and proud. Jehoash told Amaziah to stay home and not ask for trouble, which would lead to his downfall and the downfall of Judah.
Amaziah did not listen to Jehoash, because God had worked out for him to be handed over to Jehoash, because he sought the gods of Edom. Jehoash and Amaziah faced off at Beth Shemesh in Judah. Judah was routed by Israel and every man fled home. Jehoash captured Amaziah son of Joash, the son of Ahaziah, at Beth Shemesh. Amaziah was brought to Jerusalem, where Jehoash broke down their wall from the Ephraim Gate to the Corner Gate, about 600 feet of it. He took all the gold, silver, and articles of God's temple that had been cared for by Obed-Edom. He also took the palace treasures and hostages, and they returned to Samaria.
Amaziah lived for 15 years after Jehoash died. The other events of his reign are written in the book of the kings of Judah and Israel. From that time, he turned from God. They conspired against him in Jerusalem and he fled to Lachish. A man was sent after him and killed him. He was brought back by horse and buried with his fathers in the City of Judah.
Lori's Thoughts:
I don't know about you, but I'm getting annoyed with the people of Judah. How does it make any sense to worship the gods of the people you've just defeated?! The ones God helped you defeat!!!
It's a good thing I'm not God, because I would have lost patience and just destroyed the world. Then, there'd be no existence or salvation for any of us. I think God is way generous with us. So, the next time you wonder why bad things are allowed to happen, ask yourself what the people have been doing. As He said, everyone is to be punished for their own sins.
Now, if it wasn't for God's patience, we'd all be doomed to die. This is the punishment for sin. Somehow, God maintained the little good that remained in Judah and sent a part of Himself to become human and pay the punishment for our sins.
"Oh, praise the One who paid my debt and raised this life up from the dead!" (My favorite phrase to sing at church.)
People! When things seem hopeless and impossible, when good seems invisible, God will make a way!
Don't give up!
"For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans to prosper you and not harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." (Jeremiah 29:11)
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
Matthew 13: Part III - The Parables of the Hidden Treasure and the Pearl (NIV)
Summary:
The Parables of the Hidden Treasure and the Pearl
Verses 44-46
The kingdom of heaven is like a treasure hidden in a field. A man found it, hid it again, then joyfully sold all he had and bought the field.
The kingdom of heaven is like a merchant searching for fine pearls. He found one of great value, then left and sold all he had, and bought it.
The Parable of the Net
Verses 47-52
The kingdom of heaven is like a net let down into a lake and caught all kinds of fish. Once full, the fishermen pulled it to shore. They collected the good fish, putting them into baskets, and throwing the bad fish away. This is how it will be at the end of the age. The angels will come and separate the wicked from the righteous and throw them into a fiery furnace, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.
Jesus asked the disciples if they'd understood all these things. They said yes. Jesus told them that every teacher of the law who'd been instructed about the kingdom was like the owner of a house who brings out of his storeroom new and old treasures.
A Prophet Without Honor
Verses 53-58
Jesus finished His parables and moved on. He arrived at His hometown and began to teach in the synagogue. The people were amazed and asked where He received His wisdom and miraculous power. They recognized Him as the carpenter and Mary's son; as the brother of James, Joseph, Simon, and Judas; and that His sisters were with them. So, they wondered where He got these things and they were offended by Him.
Jesus told them that only in his own town and house is a prophet without honor. He then only performed a few miracles because of their lack of faith.
Lori's Thoughts:
If your desire is to live with God and without sin, and you are willing to let go of all of your earthly possessions, then you may grab a hold on the kingdom of heaven. Nothing may come before God. Not money, not your house or car, not your job or education, not your family or friends, not your status, not your spouse, nothing. You must be willing to let them go if God wills it. If anything comes before God, in your life, then you are in danger of going to hell.
Jesus says that if we do not hate our family and our own life, then we can't go to heaven. (See Luke 14:25-27) Sounds contradictory to His message of love? What about loving God and loving others? Jesus sometimes had to speak harshly to get our attention and to get us to understand how important a relationship with God is for salvation. This is what was hidden since the creation of the world. Before Jesus came, the old covenant showed us our sin. Once He came, He showed us His plan of salvation and established a new covenant with His life and death.
When I read His instructions about hating, I broke. I was on my face, weeping and telling God that I didn't understand. The notion of hate is so contrary to my nature. I know God lives in me, because I have the capacity to love, although most of my life I've been neglected and treated with contempt. But, God explained to me that if I held anything more dearly than Him, I'd be in danger of falling from grace. So, I asked Him to take from me that which would separate us.
God is good. His main objective is to save us. Once we surrender all to Him, then He can bless us with people or things, because we can be trusted with them.
. . .
Jesus used the parable of the net, because the disciples were fishermen. He put the Master's divine plan into terms that they and we could understand. How awesome is that?! How far is He reaching for you? Think about it.
The teachers of the law have old and new treasures, once instructed about the kingdom. The Law is the old treasure. Jesus is the new treasure and the fulfillment of the Law. Both are valid. You cannot be saved by accepting one and not the other.
People have a tendency to believe in salvation for others, but not for themselves. I know I do. It's just me; I screw up a lot. I have my doubtful moments on a pretty regular basis. What kind of Christian is that? Well, it's a human one. I know God's still working on me. He holds on when I give up. Praise God for that.
My point is that Jesus' neighbors did a similar thing by doubting Jesus' power and wisdom. He came from their town. They believed themselves to be too simple a people to have raised up such an amazing man. So, they missed out on blessings, because of their little faith. (Remember, Jesus asks for merely a mustard seed amount of faith.)
Don't let this happen to you. You are a part of God's plan. Believe and see how He will work in your life, and I will believe that He is working in my life, as well.
The Parables of the Hidden Treasure and the Pearl
Verses 44-46
The kingdom of heaven is like a treasure hidden in a field. A man found it, hid it again, then joyfully sold all he had and bought the field.
The kingdom of heaven is like a merchant searching for fine pearls. He found one of great value, then left and sold all he had, and bought it.
The Parable of the Net
Verses 47-52
The kingdom of heaven is like a net let down into a lake and caught all kinds of fish. Once full, the fishermen pulled it to shore. They collected the good fish, putting them into baskets, and throwing the bad fish away. This is how it will be at the end of the age. The angels will come and separate the wicked from the righteous and throw them into a fiery furnace, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.
Jesus asked the disciples if they'd understood all these things. They said yes. Jesus told them that every teacher of the law who'd been instructed about the kingdom was like the owner of a house who brings out of his storeroom new and old treasures.
A Prophet Without Honor
Verses 53-58
Jesus finished His parables and moved on. He arrived at His hometown and began to teach in the synagogue. The people were amazed and asked where He received His wisdom and miraculous power. They recognized Him as the carpenter and Mary's son; as the brother of James, Joseph, Simon, and Judas; and that His sisters were with them. So, they wondered where He got these things and they were offended by Him.
Jesus told them that only in his own town and house is a prophet without honor. He then only performed a few miracles because of their lack of faith.
Lori's Thoughts:
If your desire is to live with God and without sin, and you are willing to let go of all of your earthly possessions, then you may grab a hold on the kingdom of heaven. Nothing may come before God. Not money, not your house or car, not your job or education, not your family or friends, not your status, not your spouse, nothing. You must be willing to let them go if God wills it. If anything comes before God, in your life, then you are in danger of going to hell.
Jesus says that if we do not hate our family and our own life, then we can't go to heaven. (See Luke 14:25-27) Sounds contradictory to His message of love? What about loving God and loving others? Jesus sometimes had to speak harshly to get our attention and to get us to understand how important a relationship with God is for salvation. This is what was hidden since the creation of the world. Before Jesus came, the old covenant showed us our sin. Once He came, He showed us His plan of salvation and established a new covenant with His life and death.
When I read His instructions about hating, I broke. I was on my face, weeping and telling God that I didn't understand. The notion of hate is so contrary to my nature. I know God lives in me, because I have the capacity to love, although most of my life I've been neglected and treated with contempt. But, God explained to me that if I held anything more dearly than Him, I'd be in danger of falling from grace. So, I asked Him to take from me that which would separate us.
God is good. His main objective is to save us. Once we surrender all to Him, then He can bless us with people or things, because we can be trusted with them.
. . .
Jesus used the parable of the net, because the disciples were fishermen. He put the Master's divine plan into terms that they and we could understand. How awesome is that?! How far is He reaching for you? Think about it.
The teachers of the law have old and new treasures, once instructed about the kingdom. The Law is the old treasure. Jesus is the new treasure and the fulfillment of the Law. Both are valid. You cannot be saved by accepting one and not the other.
People have a tendency to believe in salvation for others, but not for themselves. I know I do. It's just me; I screw up a lot. I have my doubtful moments on a pretty regular basis. What kind of Christian is that? Well, it's a human one. I know God's still working on me. He holds on when I give up. Praise God for that.
My point is that Jesus' neighbors did a similar thing by doubting Jesus' power and wisdom. He came from their town. They believed themselves to be too simple a people to have raised up such an amazing man. So, they missed out on blessings, because of their little faith. (Remember, Jesus asks for merely a mustard seed amount of faith.)
Don't let this happen to you. You are a part of God's plan. Believe and see how He will work in your life, and I will believe that He is working in my life, as well.
Monday, June 27, 2011
Matthew 13: Part II - The Parable of the Weeds (NIV)
Summary:
The Parable of the Weeds
Verses 24-30
The kingdom of heaven is like a man who sowed seed in his field. While everyone was asleep, his enemy sowed weeds among the wheat and left. When the wheat sprouted, so did the weeds. The servants asked the owner that if he had sown good seed, then where had the weeds come from? The owner explained that an enemy had done this. So, the servants asked if they should uproot the weeds. The owner said no, because they'd risk uprooting the wheat as well. They were to wait until the harvest. The harvesters would collect and bundle the weeds to be burned. Then, the wheat would be gathered and brought into his barn.
The Parables of the Mustard Seed and the Yeast
Verses 31-35
The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed that a man planted in his field. It is the smallest of seeds, but it grows into the largest garden plant and then into a tree. It provides a perch for the birds of the air.
The kingdom of heaven is like yeast that a woman mixes into a large amount of flour until it is worked into all the dough.
Jesus spoke to the crowd only in parables, which fulfilled the prophecy in Psalm 78:2 - " 'I will open my mouth in parables, I will utter things hidden since the creation of the world.' " (Verse 35b)
The Parable of the Weeds Explained
Verses 36-43
Jesus went into the house and the disciples asked Him to explain the parable of the weeds. Jesus told them:
- sower of good seed = Son of Man
- field = world
- good seed = sons of the kingdom
- weeds = sons of the evil one
- enemy = devil
- harvest = end of the age
- harvesters = angels
As the weeds are pulled up and burned, so it will be at the end of the age. The Son of Man will send His angels to weed out of His kingdom everything that causes sin and all that do evil. They will be thrown into a fiery furnace, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.
The righteous will shine like the sun, in their Father's kingdom.
" 'He who has ears, let him hear.' " (Verse 43b)
Lori's Thoughts:
Why is there evil in this world? Why do bad things happen?
"Bear in mind that our Lord's patience means salvation..." (II Peter 3:15)
If God came right now, less people would be saved and go to heaven. God sees everything. He sees our pain and suffering. Although He is waiting for the end, for the perfect moment, He does not sit idly by as we suffer. "Are not all angels ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit salvation?" (Hebrews 1:14) He sent His Son to give us hope and salvation from evil, and He sent the Holy Spirit to guide us.
Do not mistake His patience for apathy. God is real and so is the devil. Evil will be purged out. I pray that none of you are entangled in evil when that time comes. Allow God to work in your life and help you grow. As the mustard seed and yeast parables show, all you need is a little bit of faith. God can work with that. Just say, "Yes". Say, "Okay, God". Look up and say, "Help". He'll be there. He was for me. I know He sent a ministering angel when I gave up and sought death. I couldn't deal with the weight of my guilt and the suffering that was inflicted upon me for over 20 years. But, I had a desperate clutch on hope. It saved my life. Here I am spiritually and mentally sound. Life can still suck, but I know I'm not alone and I know how this game of life will play out. I'm with God on this one.
The Parable of the Weeds
Verses 24-30
The kingdom of heaven is like a man who sowed seed in his field. While everyone was asleep, his enemy sowed weeds among the wheat and left. When the wheat sprouted, so did the weeds. The servants asked the owner that if he had sown good seed, then where had the weeds come from? The owner explained that an enemy had done this. So, the servants asked if they should uproot the weeds. The owner said no, because they'd risk uprooting the wheat as well. They were to wait until the harvest. The harvesters would collect and bundle the weeds to be burned. Then, the wheat would be gathered and brought into his barn.
The Parables of the Mustard Seed and the Yeast
Verses 31-35
The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed that a man planted in his field. It is the smallest of seeds, but it grows into the largest garden plant and then into a tree. It provides a perch for the birds of the air.
The kingdom of heaven is like yeast that a woman mixes into a large amount of flour until it is worked into all the dough.
Jesus spoke to the crowd only in parables, which fulfilled the prophecy in Psalm 78:2 - " 'I will open my mouth in parables, I will utter things hidden since the creation of the world.' " (Verse 35b)
The Parable of the Weeds Explained
Verses 36-43
Jesus went into the house and the disciples asked Him to explain the parable of the weeds. Jesus told them:
- sower of good seed = Son of Man
- field = world
- good seed = sons of the kingdom
- weeds = sons of the evil one
- enemy = devil
- harvest = end of the age
- harvesters = angels
As the weeds are pulled up and burned, so it will be at the end of the age. The Son of Man will send His angels to weed out of His kingdom everything that causes sin and all that do evil. They will be thrown into a fiery furnace, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.
The righteous will shine like the sun, in their Father's kingdom.
" 'He who has ears, let him hear.' " (Verse 43b)
Lori's Thoughts:
Why is there evil in this world? Why do bad things happen?
"Bear in mind that our Lord's patience means salvation..." (II Peter 3:15)
If God came right now, less people would be saved and go to heaven. God sees everything. He sees our pain and suffering. Although He is waiting for the end, for the perfect moment, He does not sit idly by as we suffer. "Are not all angels ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit salvation?" (Hebrews 1:14) He sent His Son to give us hope and salvation from evil, and He sent the Holy Spirit to guide us.
Do not mistake His patience for apathy. God is real and so is the devil. Evil will be purged out. I pray that none of you are entangled in evil when that time comes. Allow God to work in your life and help you grow. As the mustard seed and yeast parables show, all you need is a little bit of faith. God can work with that. Just say, "Yes". Say, "Okay, God". Look up and say, "Help". He'll be there. He was for me. I know He sent a ministering angel when I gave up and sought death. I couldn't deal with the weight of my guilt and the suffering that was inflicted upon me for over 20 years. But, I had a desperate clutch on hope. It saved my life. Here I am spiritually and mentally sound. Life can still suck, but I know I'm not alone and I know how this game of life will play out. I'm with God on this one.
Friday, June 24, 2011
Matthew 13: Part I - The Parable of the Sower (NIV)
Summary:
The Parable of the Sower
Verses 1-23
The same day, Jesus left the house and sat by the lake. The crowd became so large that He got into a boat, where He sat as the people stood on the shore.
Jesus spoke in many parables (short stories). A farmer went to sow seed...
Landing Spot - Path.
Result - Birds came and ate it.
Meaning - Hear the message and don't understand, so the devil snatches it from their heart.
Landing Spot - Among rocks without much soil.
Result - Quickly sprang up and withered in the sun, because it had no root.
Meaning - Receives the Word with joy. Since they have no root, it is ephemeral. When trouble and persecution comes, they quickly fall away.
Landing Spot - Among thorns.
Result - Grew & choked.
Meaning - Life's worries and wealth's deceitfulness choke them and they are unfruitful.
Landing Spot - Good soil.
Result - Produced a crop 100, 60, or 30X what was sown.
Meaning - Hear and understand, so they produce a crop 100, 60, or 30X what was sown.
"He who has ears, let him hear." (Verse 9) [Jesus wants us to understand and grasp the good news about salvation.]
The disciples asked why Jesus spoke in parables. Jesus answered that the knowledge of heaven's secrets have been given to the disciples, but not to the people. Those who have will be given more and will have in abundance. Those that don't have, what they do have will be taken from them.
" 'Though seeing, they do not see; though hearing, they do not understand.' " (Verse 13b)
The prophecy in Isaiah 6:9,10 was fulfilled:
" 'You will be ever hearing but never understanding; you will be ever seeing but never perceiving. For this people's heart has become calloused; they hardly hear with their ears, and they have closed their eyes. Otherwise they might see with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand with their hearts, and turn, and I would heal them.' " (Verses 14-15)
Jesus said that the disciples were blessed because they could see and hear. Many prophets and righteous men longed to see and hear what they had. Then, he explained the meaning of the parable (which I've already written above).
Lori's Thoughts:
Jesus' stories were meant for those who seek God. Those with faith enough to look for Him will gain much more. They will know Him and speak with Him. Those that do not desire to understand, those that choose to doubt, will lose their faith in everything. They will soon find that their dependence upon money or status or other humans will fall through. Those that have will gain. Those that lack will lose.
The prophets and righteous men were told about Jesus' first coming. They longed to see Him. They were blessed because of their faith, even though they didn't see.
In the disciples' time, many saw Him, but they did not accept Him. The disciples were blessed because they saw Him and believed. Because they believed, the secrets of heaven were revealed to them.
Those that don't understand the gospel, because they do not seek, will have the seeds of the gospel stolen from them. Some people see the beauty of the gospel, but refuse to surrender to God. So, they easily fall away when things get hard. How can they receive mercy and grace when they aren't connected?
Some people grow in faith, but aren't fully committed. So, when finances fail and times get hard, they falter. Those that surrender their all to God will grow. The gospel will be spread to many more people because of their faith.
Get rooted! Life is good with God.
The Parable of the Sower
Verses 1-23
The same day, Jesus left the house and sat by the lake. The crowd became so large that He got into a boat, where He sat as the people stood on the shore.
Jesus spoke in many parables (short stories). A farmer went to sow seed...
Landing Spot - Path.
Result - Birds came and ate it.
Meaning - Hear the message and don't understand, so the devil snatches it from their heart.
Landing Spot - Among rocks without much soil.
Result - Quickly sprang up and withered in the sun, because it had no root.
Meaning - Receives the Word with joy. Since they have no root, it is ephemeral. When trouble and persecution comes, they quickly fall away.
Landing Spot - Among thorns.
Result - Grew & choked.
Meaning - Life's worries and wealth's deceitfulness choke them and they are unfruitful.
Landing Spot - Good soil.
Result - Produced a crop 100, 60, or 30X what was sown.
Meaning - Hear and understand, so they produce a crop 100, 60, or 30X what was sown.
"He who has ears, let him hear." (Verse 9) [Jesus wants us to understand and grasp the good news about salvation.]
The disciples asked why Jesus spoke in parables. Jesus answered that the knowledge of heaven's secrets have been given to the disciples, but not to the people. Those who have will be given more and will have in abundance. Those that don't have, what they do have will be taken from them.
" 'Though seeing, they do not see; though hearing, they do not understand.' " (Verse 13b)
The prophecy in Isaiah 6:9,10 was fulfilled:
" 'You will be ever hearing but never understanding; you will be ever seeing but never perceiving. For this people's heart has become calloused; they hardly hear with their ears, and they have closed their eyes. Otherwise they might see with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand with their hearts, and turn, and I would heal them.' " (Verses 14-15)
Jesus said that the disciples were blessed because they could see and hear. Many prophets and righteous men longed to see and hear what they had. Then, he explained the meaning of the parable (which I've already written above).
Lori's Thoughts:
Jesus' stories were meant for those who seek God. Those with faith enough to look for Him will gain much more. They will know Him and speak with Him. Those that do not desire to understand, those that choose to doubt, will lose their faith in everything. They will soon find that their dependence upon money or status or other humans will fall through. Those that have will gain. Those that lack will lose.
The prophets and righteous men were told about Jesus' first coming. They longed to see Him. They were blessed because of their faith, even though they didn't see.
In the disciples' time, many saw Him, but they did not accept Him. The disciples were blessed because they saw Him and believed. Because they believed, the secrets of heaven were revealed to them.
Those that don't understand the gospel, because they do not seek, will have the seeds of the gospel stolen from them. Some people see the beauty of the gospel, but refuse to surrender to God. So, they easily fall away when things get hard. How can they receive mercy and grace when they aren't connected?
Some people grow in faith, but aren't fully committed. So, when finances fail and times get hard, they falter. Those that surrender their all to God will grow. The gospel will be spread to many more people because of their faith.
Get rooted! Life is good with God.
Thursday, June 23, 2011
II Chronicles 24 - Joash Repairs the Temple (NIV)
Summary:
Joash Repairs the Temple
Verses 1-16
Joash was 7 years old when he became king. He reigned in Jerusalem for 40 years. His mother was Zibiah, from Beersheba. He did right in God's eyes, as long as Jehoiada was the chief priest. Jehoiada chose 2 wives for Joash and he had sons and daughters.
Later on, Joash decided to restore the Lord's temple. He summoned the priests and Levites, telling them to go to the towns of Judah and collect the annual tax to repair the temple. The Levites did not act. Joash, then, summoned Jehoiada, asking him why he hadn't required the Levites to impose Moses' tax on Judah and Jerusalem for the Tent of the Testimony.
The sons of the wicked woman, Athaliah, had broken into the temple and used the sacred objects for the Baals. The king commanded a chest to be built and placed at the gate of the temple. A proclamation was issued for the people to bring in the tax of Moses. All the officials and people brought their portions gladly. The Levites took it to the king's officials, periodically emptying it out. They ended up collecting a lot of money.
Joash and Jehoiada gave the money to the masons, carpenters, workers in iron and bronze to repair the Lord's temple. The workers were diligent and rebuilt the temple back to its original design and reinforced it. The leftover money was brought to the king and chief priest. They used it to make the articles for service, burnt offerings, dishes, and other objects of gold and silver. As long as Jehoiada lived, the burnt offerings were presented continually in the temple.
Jehoiada was old and full of years. He died at 130 years old. He was buried with the kings in the City of David, because of the good he'd done in Israel for God and His temple.
The Wickedness of Joash
Verses 17-27
After Jehoiada's death, Judah's officials paid homage to the king and he listened to them. They abandoned the temple and God. They worshiped the Asherah poles and idols. Because of their guilt, God's anger came upon Judah and Jerusalem. God sent prophets to turn the people back, but they didn't listen.
The Spirit of God came upon Zechariah, the son of Jehoiada. He told them God's message: Why had they disobeyed God's commands? They would not prosper. Because they'd forsaken God, He'd forsaken them.
The people plotted against Zechariah. By the king's order, they stoned him to death in the courtyard of the Lord's temple. King Joash forgot Jehoiada's kindness and killed his son. As Zechariah died, he asked God to see this act and call Joash into account.
At the turn of the year (probably spring), the Aramean army marched against Joash. They invaded Judah and Jerusalem, killing all their leaders. They sent the plunder to their king in Damascus. The Aramean army was small, but God delivered Judah's larger army to them. Because they'd forsaken God, judgment was executed on Joash. The Arameans withdrew and Joash was severely wounded. His officials conspired and killed him in his bed for murdering Jehoiada's son. He was buried in the City of David, but not in the tombs of the kings.
The conspirators were Zabad son of Shimeath, an Ammonite woman, and Jehozabad son of Shimrith, a Moabite woman.
The account of his sons, the prophecies about him, and the record of the temple's restoration are in the annotations on the book of kings. His son, Amaziah, became king.
Lori's Thoughts:
Joash's faith was conditional upon another human. He was not connected to God. Once Jehoiada was no longer with him, Joash was easily swayed by wicked men.
Our faith must be established on solid rock. Do not depend on your parents, your spouse, or your pastor to dictate your works for the Lord. Be directly connected to the Source.
Although the temple was restored to its former glory, the service to God was attributable to Jehoiada. It was as if Jehoiada was the real King of Judah, at that time. He was the one to receive a kingly burial.
Joash was set aside for service to the Lord, at a young age. However, he behaved as wickedly as his uncles, who desecrated the items of the temple, after Jehoiada's death. It sounds as if Joash and Jehoiada worked together for a long time. But, Joash clearly forgot how they'd thrived together. He forsook God, worshiped idols, and had others kill Zechariah, the man of God.
We must all give account for our words and actions on this earth. Because of Joash's sin, Judah fell. Joash's officials sought vengeance for Jehoiada's son's death. Joash paid the price for his sin - death.
I pray that if you fall away from God, that you will respond to the call of the Holy Spirit. God sent several messengers, giving Joash several opportunities to repent, before He punished him. God is merciful and just. Come back to Him. Rededicate yourself to Him. Remember how you prospered with Him before. Or, find out how you will prosper with Him, if you haven't already.
"Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him." (Psalm 34:8)
Joash Repairs the Temple
Verses 1-16
Joash was 7 years old when he became king. He reigned in Jerusalem for 40 years. His mother was Zibiah, from Beersheba. He did right in God's eyes, as long as Jehoiada was the chief priest. Jehoiada chose 2 wives for Joash and he had sons and daughters.
Later on, Joash decided to restore the Lord's temple. He summoned the priests and Levites, telling them to go to the towns of Judah and collect the annual tax to repair the temple. The Levites did not act. Joash, then, summoned Jehoiada, asking him why he hadn't required the Levites to impose Moses' tax on Judah and Jerusalem for the Tent of the Testimony.
The sons of the wicked woman, Athaliah, had broken into the temple and used the sacred objects for the Baals. The king commanded a chest to be built and placed at the gate of the temple. A proclamation was issued for the people to bring in the tax of Moses. All the officials and people brought their portions gladly. The Levites took it to the king's officials, periodically emptying it out. They ended up collecting a lot of money.
Joash and Jehoiada gave the money to the masons, carpenters, workers in iron and bronze to repair the Lord's temple. The workers were diligent and rebuilt the temple back to its original design and reinforced it. The leftover money was brought to the king and chief priest. They used it to make the articles for service, burnt offerings, dishes, and other objects of gold and silver. As long as Jehoiada lived, the burnt offerings were presented continually in the temple.
Jehoiada was old and full of years. He died at 130 years old. He was buried with the kings in the City of David, because of the good he'd done in Israel for God and His temple.
The Wickedness of Joash
Verses 17-27
After Jehoiada's death, Judah's officials paid homage to the king and he listened to them. They abandoned the temple and God. They worshiped the Asherah poles and idols. Because of their guilt, God's anger came upon Judah and Jerusalem. God sent prophets to turn the people back, but they didn't listen.
The Spirit of God came upon Zechariah, the son of Jehoiada. He told them God's message: Why had they disobeyed God's commands? They would not prosper. Because they'd forsaken God, He'd forsaken them.
The people plotted against Zechariah. By the king's order, they stoned him to death in the courtyard of the Lord's temple. King Joash forgot Jehoiada's kindness and killed his son. As Zechariah died, he asked God to see this act and call Joash into account.
At the turn of the year (probably spring), the Aramean army marched against Joash. They invaded Judah and Jerusalem, killing all their leaders. They sent the plunder to their king in Damascus. The Aramean army was small, but God delivered Judah's larger army to them. Because they'd forsaken God, judgment was executed on Joash. The Arameans withdrew and Joash was severely wounded. His officials conspired and killed him in his bed for murdering Jehoiada's son. He was buried in the City of David, but not in the tombs of the kings.
The conspirators were Zabad son of Shimeath, an Ammonite woman, and Jehozabad son of Shimrith, a Moabite woman.
The account of his sons, the prophecies about him, and the record of the temple's restoration are in the annotations on the book of kings. His son, Amaziah, became king.
Lori's Thoughts:
Joash's faith was conditional upon another human. He was not connected to God. Once Jehoiada was no longer with him, Joash was easily swayed by wicked men.
Our faith must be established on solid rock. Do not depend on your parents, your spouse, or your pastor to dictate your works for the Lord. Be directly connected to the Source.
Although the temple was restored to its former glory, the service to God was attributable to Jehoiada. It was as if Jehoiada was the real King of Judah, at that time. He was the one to receive a kingly burial.
Joash was set aside for service to the Lord, at a young age. However, he behaved as wickedly as his uncles, who desecrated the items of the temple, after Jehoiada's death. It sounds as if Joash and Jehoiada worked together for a long time. But, Joash clearly forgot how they'd thrived together. He forsook God, worshiped idols, and had others kill Zechariah, the man of God.
We must all give account for our words and actions on this earth. Because of Joash's sin, Judah fell. Joash's officials sought vengeance for Jehoiada's son's death. Joash paid the price for his sin - death.
I pray that if you fall away from God, that you will respond to the call of the Holy Spirit. God sent several messengers, giving Joash several opportunities to repent, before He punished him. God is merciful and just. Come back to Him. Rededicate yourself to Him. Remember how you prospered with Him before. Or, find out how you will prosper with Him, if you haven't already.
"Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him." (Psalm 34:8)
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