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)
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