Category: Shadows (Page 18 of 25)

Wouldn’t it be great if we could just click on God’s social media feed and ask for advice? Would it be different than the advice the prophets were giving thousands of years ago? Here are five things that might make the 2022 list!

Make sure you know who the enemy is!

Scriptures tell us “Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them.” (1 John 2:15)¹NIV New International Version Translations. The “world” is the value-system which dominates society contrary to the ways (Truth) of God. It is too easy to just blame the term “Satan” or “Evil” for everything that goes wrong in our world. Because of our free will, humanity is forever inclined to sin. Unfortunately, to find our enemies, the first place to look might be inward. Even the best intentions of good people can be tainted by selfishness and pride. Our enemies are those who seek worldly powers over humanity. They worship themselves (their abilities, strengths, wealth, cleverness, ideas, and/or good looks). Enemies come in many flavors, liberals, conservatives, Marxists, Democrats, Republicans, and lately, Communists. It is our responsibility to tell the differences between them! And for sure don’t forget, our friends may come in many flavors too! Our job is not to just disagree or hate those with differing opinions but to understand and know God’s Truth!

Evil, Satan, is hard to spot. He is not a bright red monster with horns that carries a pitchfork. More often, evil comes as an angel of light, using subtle and crafty ways. Satan uses the allurements of the world and the appeal of the flesh to try and get us to do what God forbids. Today, we are bearing witness to one of Satan’s best techniques, discord, and discouragement. Discouraged people lose confidence, become depressed. Crime, drugs, human trafficking are just glimpses of what a society can become under Satan’s influence. The best test we can give to any action is to see if a behavior is honoring the fundamental Truth as defined by God. Satan breaks down the sacredness of marriage, the sanctity of human life, and the absoluteness of moral standards. Worse yet, he seeks to instill complacency in our world. Enemies love it when godly people are quiet, fearful and do nothing!

(Ecclesiastes 3:7) – “a time to tear and a time to mend, a time to be silent and a time to speak,”

Do not compromise God’s Truth!

To know God’s Truth will take effort. You should believe only God and the Holy Spirit on what it True. That means it takes research and practice, it takes time to identify what is True in the eyes of God. Our world is filled with a thousand reasons to keep you from concentrating on prayer. Our government, the media (both social and entertainment), life’s challenges like COVID, all work to distract us from the careful study of God’s Word. Add to that the deceit in our world’s governments and educational systems, and finding the truth is an arduous journey, not a simple Internet Search.  It is an easy thing to become confused, and uncertain. A favorite tactic is the use of the “unstated premise,” you are told you are wrong, and they are right, but there is no logical reason is ever given. Reject their premise! And here is a tip on where to start:

(John 14:6) – “Jesus answered, I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. ‘”

You will never find God’s Truth until you find God’s Son! In the life and death of Jesus, we see a living example of God’s Truth. Compare all you read, all you see, all you hear to Jesus, how He lived and how He died.

There is one critical point to add here that we often take for granted. In the United States, we are free to pursue our search for God’s Truth! This is not true for the entire world. Our Constitution, our Bill of Rights has been carefully crafted by our forefathers so that all who wish to worship our Creator, can do so freely. This right is worth defending at all costs. Without it, the pathway to salvation is obscured.

You have the power – Use it!

In our New Testament Gospels, there are four different Greek words are used to represent the English word “power.” The most used of those words is “dunamis.” Used 117 times, dunamis represents the kind of power that is an inherent force. It flows from a person to give them the ability to do things beyond their natural abilities. In Mark, chapter 5, the Bible gives us several examples of dunamis working through Jesus. First, we see Jesus rid a demon-possessed man of his burden (Mark 5:6-8), and then Jesus raises a dead child to life (Mark 5:40-42). Dunamis is REAL power!

Sandwiched between those two miracles is another story of a woman touching Jesus. A woman had dealt with a debilitating illness for 12 years. The woman bled constantly and spent her life savings trying to find a cure. Nothing had helped. Her condition worsened day by day. Through the crowd, the woman managed to touch Jesus’ tunic and she was healed.

The power, dunamis, that Jesus demonstrated has been at work throughout history. Whether miracle cures, bravery shown beyond human bounds, or the forgiveness of even the most egregious sins, God’s Truth is the power to truly set us free. Dunamis is the power that allows each of us to share our testimony with others even when we are afraid. Dunamis comes from the power of FAITH!

(John 8:31-32) – “To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, ‘If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.’”

Leave the fear at home!

(Hebrews 2:14-15) – “Since the children have flesh and blood, he too shared in their humanity so that by his death he might break the power of him who holds the power of death—that is, the devil— and free those who all their lives were held in slavery by their fear of death.”

The best reason for having no fear is that Jesus has freed us from the power of death. Satan’s world has no lasting power over you. Jesus earned your redemption on His Cross. That should be the most confidence building thought anyone can ever have. It is, therefore, OK to fight the corruption in our world because the world has no power over your eternal future. We are called to push back against the world’s deceptions. The fear of dying controls the lives of unbelievers and enslaves them to actions that feed their desire to escape death. Through Christ, you will live forever!

Because Jesus took on every temptation we might ever endure, without giving in. By the way, He understands temptations better than anyone. Because Jesus endured the Cross for our sins, He understands God’s wrath and death better than anyone. When life gets too hard, when pain is too much, when we are too impatient to wait, it is not the time to quit. It is time to place your faith and trust in Jesus who can remove fear forever.

The best defense is a Godly offense

(Ephesians 6:10-18) – “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.”

Whether you have enlisted or have been drafted, you are a soldier in a world at war. Not only are there physical conflicts but Satan is doing a great job organizing the spiritual conflicts too. God has made a simple request, “It is time for action!” Today, you are fighting for your convictions, your culture, your children, and even your freedom to worship. You are fighting for your families and your future. The Apostle Paul defines both defensive and offensive weapons. He wants you to protect your faith and family first and foremost. But don’t miss the one offensive weapon, the Sword of the Spirit. The Truth of God reminds us that we are not alone in this battle. His Word, God’s Truth has the dunamis, the power. The Holy Spirit is alive and well and on our side. It is time as a nation that we claim it!

Being stuck on defense leads to faithful people being silenced by the “woke” culture that is running unchecked in our world today. God is not asking you to fight back with quick quips/replies in the heat of the moment. Instead, God is asking you to use reason, logic, and question what you are hearing in your world. Then compare to God’s Truth what you are being asked to tolerate. Be prepared to defend God. Apologetics is your playbook for going on the offense.

Contemplations

• What do you fear most about fighting back at the ungodly culture in our world?
  • Ideas to Explore: Don’t believe it is really that bad yet? Your position requires neutrality. Do you get both sides of an issue?
• Have you given up?
  • Ideas to Explore: Overwhelmed by the world and nothing ever changes. What can you really do to change the world? You are going to heaven so who cares about the rest of the people? Is God really calling you to step up and fight for Him?
• When you hear disturbing news, do you carefully use common sense, logic and research to form an opinion?
  • Ideas to Explore: If you were to be graded on your opinions, what grade would you give yourself? Why? What grade would God give you?
• What would be your offense?
  • Ideas to Explore: Youth focus, church, bible study, reading, prayer, etc.

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  NIV New International Version Translations

The 2nd millennium BC spanned the years 2000 through 1001 BC. It is thought that the Book of Job was written during this period, making it the first and oldest biblical writing. This would place the events of Job before the time of Moses, possibly during the era of the Bible’s Patriarchs. The Book of Job is written differently from all the other books in the Bible. It does not refer to any other books or events in the Bible. This suggests that the story of Job took place long before those in the rest of the Bible. Job uses Arabic words and describes Arabic customs, opinions, and manners. While the storyline of Job is about a man suffering from what seems to be an unjust God, it offers us a unique opportunity to learn more about our Creator.

The Book of Job records one of humanity’s early discussions with God. To read the entire conversation, go to (Job 38-42). Due to the length of the Scripture, we will look at just some highlights.

(Job 38:1-11)¹NIV New International Version Translations – Then the Lord spoke to Job out of the storm. He said: ‘Who is this that obscures my plans with words without knowledge? Brace yourself like a man; I will question you, and you shall answer me. Where were you when I laid the earth’s foundation? Tell me if you understand. Who marked off its dimensions? Surely you know! Who stretched a measuring line across it? On what were its footings set, or who laid its cornerstone—while the morning stars sang together, and all the angels shouted for joy? Who shut up the sea behind doors when it burst forth from the womb, when I made the clouds its garment and wrapped it in thick darkness when I fixed limits for it and set its doors and bars in place, when I said, ‘This far you may come and no farther; here is where your proud waves halt’?

The human mind may find it hard to comprehend but before the universe was created, God existed. We also know that Jesus existed before creation:

(John 1:1) – “In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.”

The pre-incarnate Christ was already with His Father, to partake of His glory and to be appropriately called God. Jesus, Himself explains this:

(John 17:5) – “And now Father, glorify Me with Yourself with the glory which I had with You before the world was.”

We also know that the Holy Spirit was present before the universe was created. Genesis 1:2 describes the Spirit “hovering over the face” of the dark and formless earth. Therefore, even before our universe and earth was created, God existed in three Persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. The Trinity existed in perfect harmony. One might conclude that the “Big Bang,” the actual creation of our universe, and the concept of time itself were done solely for the needs of humanity!

(Job 38:12-15) – “Have you ever given orders to the morning, or shown the dawn its place, that it might take the earth by the edges and shake the wicked out of it? The earth takes shape like clay under a seal; its features stand out like those of a garment. The wicked are denied their light, and their upraised arm is broken. “

God states to Job that the concept of wickedness also existed before Creation. You can find a conversation between God and Satan at the beginning of the book (Job 1:6-22). The most important point is that God, not Satan, is and has always been in charge. While we may not know the exact nature of why wickedness even exists, wickedness (evil) remains subservient to our God. God then asks Job a set of piercing questions:

(Job 38:17-18) – “Have the gates of death been shown to you? Have you seen the gates of the deepest darkness? Have you comprehended the vast expanses of the earth? Tell me, if you know all this.”

God asks Job if he knows what death is like? God is pointing out that He existed before humanity was created and He will exist after death consumes our human lives. Jesus came to our world, the incarnate God, to show us “the gates through which death can lead us to God.” Our human mind is programmed to learn through observation and repetition. No one is born with any knowledge. In the comparative space of eternity, we have but a flash of existence to learn all we can learn. Our God is simply pointing out GOD IS who He IS!

(Exodus 3:14) – “God said to Moses, ‘I am who I am. This is what you are to say to the Israelites: ‘I am has sent me to you.’”

Our galaxy has been uniquely positioned in the universe to allow us the privilege to observe and learn. You can find more about this amazing fact in the book, entitled “The Privileged Planet: How Our Place in the Cosmos Is Designed for Discovery – February 1, 2004, by Guillermo Gonzalez (Author), Jay Richards (Author).” Yet, there are still some that cling to the idea of random creationism. However, unbiased observation will only find purposeful design.

In his book, “Why the Universe is the Way it is,” Caltech astrophysicist Hugh Ross states that the gravitational and magnetic forces that hold our universe together are also part of purposeful design. Ross uses this analogy. 

“Cover North American with dimes, then make the pile reach the moon. Now find one billion more continents like North America and build similar piles of dimes, reaching 240,000 miles each (to the moon). The number of dimes represents ‘ten to the fortieth power.’ Ross then states that the maximum deviation or ratio between the gravitational and electromagnetic forces must be no greater that one dime (one part in ten to the fortieth power) in order for life to exist on our planet.”

The astrophysical balance of our universe is simply astounding. This tight relationship exists among all planetary and stellar bodies within the universe. Our heavens, formed billions of years ago, have been so carefully laid out that three reflective bodies aligned to welcome our Savior as a Christmas Star over 2,000 years ago! That is not luck, not circumstance, that is perfect design!

(Job 38:31-33) “Can you bind the chains of the Pleiades? Can you loosen Orion’s belt? Can you bring forth the constellations in their seasons or lead out the Bear with its cubs? Do you know the laws of the heavens? Can you set up God’s dominion over the earth?

God then goes on in the remaining chapters to ask Job questions about life, living things. God is asking Job do you know the details of all the living diversity on our planet?

(Job 39:1-4) – “Do you know when the mountain goats give birth? Do you watch when the doe bears her fawn? Do you count the months till they bear? Do you know the time they give birth? They crouch down and bring forth their young; their labor pains are ended. Their young thrive and grow strong in the wilds; they leave and do not return.”

God is just trying to get Job’s attention. If today you were writing to Job, you might tell him that there are 6,495 species of mammals, some 900 thousand different kinds of living insects. Our oceans are home to 20,000 species of fish. Plants, yes, we have plants, estimates are over 390,000 types. We haven’t even started to list the microorganisms and other life forms that exist. God is simply stating to Job that he knows nothing about his world.

(Job 4:1-5) – “The Lord said to Job: ‘Will the one who contends with the Almighty correct him? Let him who accuses God answer him!’ Then Job answered the Lord: ‘I am unworthy—how can I reply to you? I put my hand over my mouth. I spoke once, but I have no answer—twice, but I will say no more.”

Job finally comes to his senses.

(Job 40:6-14) – “Then the Lord spoke to Job out of the storm: ‘Brace yourself like a man; I will question you, and you shall answer me. Would you discredit my justice? Would you condemn me to justify yourself? Do you have an arm like God’s, and can your voice thunder like his? Then adorn yourself with glory and splendor and clothe yourself in honor and majesty. Unleash the fury of your wrath, look at all who are proud and bring them low, look at all who are proud and humble them, crush the wicked where they stand. Bury them all in the dust together; shroud their faces in the grave. Then I will admit to you that your right hand can save you.’ “

Job shuts up and finally LISTENS! Job sees his sin and repents. These are God’s answers not only to Job’s problems but to the problems of all of humankind. Tired of our world being screwed up? Tired of governments seeking unjust powers? Tired of crime, pandemics, and wars? God lays out the solution for peace! Be quiet, listen for His Truth, repent, seek Him! We live in a noisy, distractive world. Government, sports, entertainment, social media, to name a few, all compete for your time. The noise of the world drowns out God’s voice. In what may be the 1st written advice to humanity, God simply says I will show you and tell you what is necessary for eternal peace and happiness. HE IS, remember!

Job 42:1-6) – “Then Job replied to the Lord: ‘I know that you can do all things; no purpose of yours can be thwarted. You asked, ‘Who is this that obscures my plans without knowledge? Surely I spoke of things I did not understand, things too wonderful for me to know.’ ‘You said, ‘Listen now, and I will speak; I will question you, and you shall answer me.’ ‘My ears had heard of you but now my eyes have seen you. Therefore I despise myself and repent in dust and ashes.’”

Contemplations

• How do you personally handle the differences between the scientific community and religious community regarding God?
  • Ideas to Explore: Science and faith, creationism and evolution can and do co-exist.  Do you take time to search for their common beliefs? What are the areas of each that give you comfort in knowing we have a world under God’s direction? 
• Why do you think people have issues with the legitimacy of the Bible?
  • Ideas to Explore: Archeology supports Scripture, have you taken the time to explore history’s findings? Do people spend enough time thinking about God and who He really is?
• Why is there pain and suffering in the world?
  • Ideas to Explore: Suffering is always personal. Our Bible tells us it will occur. Do you think suffering proves there is a God? What about suffering helps you learn about God?
• Everything hinges on one’s belief in Jesus and whether you believe He is who he claims to be.
  • Ideas to Explore: Every Christian must sort out whether they believe in the incarnation. Do you believe Jesus is God? Do you believe Jesus proved there is life after death?
• God shows Job, God is not only the master planner of all things, but God is in control of everything.
  • Ideas to Explore: How does that make you feel? Do you believe there is purpose in all life’s experiences, good and bad?
• Do people need to understand God to know He exists?
  • Ideas to Explore: God tells Job he will never understand God. Is understanding necessary for a faithful life?
• Why is life so full of “noise?”
  • Ideas to Explore: What do we do that makes it hard to hear God? Do we hear Him but don’t like what He is telling us? What would you have to give up leading a humble life?

 

 

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  NIV New International Version Translations

The Book of Proverbs is viewed as a “one-stop-shop” for wisdom. Credit for the Book of Proverbs goes to King Solomon. The Bible tells us that Solomon was the wisest man to ever live. What is interesting about Proverbs is that it ends, Proverb 30, on the wise writings of someone other than Solomon. The collection of wisdom to save a world is wrapped up by a summary from Agur ben Jakeh. We know this because the proverb tells us this. Agur was an Arab sage and compiler of wise sayings. He probably lived in the 3rd century BC. His name means compiler or gatherer. Like all great books, the last chapter is typically a great summary and wrap-up. Let’s begin a journey to close out the Wisdom of the World.

(Proverbs 30:1-6 The sayings of Agur son of Jakeh—an inspired utterance) ¹NIV New International Version Translations“I am weary, God, but I can prevail. Surely, I am only a brute, not a man; I do not have human understanding. I have not learned wisdom, nor have I attained to the knowledge of the Holy One. Who has gone up to heaven and come down? Whose hands have gathered up the wind? Who has wrapped up the waters in a cloak? Who has established all the ends of the earth? What is his name, and what is the name of his son? Surely you know! Every word of God is flawless; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him. Do not add to his words, or he will rebuke you and prove you a liar.

In verses 1 through 4, Agur confesses his stupidity and lack of wisdom. In comparison to God and his Son, his knowledge is limited. Note that Agur believes God has a Son! Next in verses 5 through 6, Agur reminds us of the Truth of God’s Word. To go against God’s Word makes us a liar. We are called to hold to God’s Word above all other wisdom.

(Proverbs 30:7-8) – “Two things I ask of you, Lord; do not refuse me before I die: Keep falsehood and lies far from me; give me neither poverty nor riches but give me only my daily bread. Otherwise, I may have too much and disown you and say, ‘Who is the Lord?’ Or I may become poor and steal, and so dishonor the name of my God.

In verses 7 through 9, Agur takes a turn and outlines for us his prayer, not a prayer for more things, but a prayer for integrity. It is most interesting that Agur is concerned about “false wisdom.” In our overly connected world today, we should be our concern too. Wisdom, both correct and incorrect (falsehoods) bombard us every day. His prayer shows that we will need God’s help to keep us grounded in the Truth of God. Then comes a caution that “either riches or poverty” can both stand in the way of our relationship to God. A similar request is made, “Give me only my daily bread.” Familiar, isn’t it? We are to strive to stay out of poverty and to also keep from embracing riches in a way that would make us forget God’s provisioning. This is also an indirect callout on Christ’s command to help the poor. Poverty can be used by Satan to effectively destroy lives. Agur closes these verses by asking God, give him enough, keep him humble, keep him from the dishonor associated with poverty, keep him from the lure of riches. Our world should not take these thoughts lightly.

(Proverbs 30:10-19) – “Do not slander a servant to their master, or they will curse you, and you will pay for it. “There are those who curse their fathers and do not bless their mothers; those who are pure in their own eyes and yet are not cleansed of their filth; those whose eyes are ever so haughty, whose glances are so disdainful; those whose teeth are swords and whose jaws are set with knives to devour the poor from the earth and the needy from among mankind. The leech has two daughters. ‘Give! Give!’ they cry. There are three things that are never satisfied, four that never say, ‘Enough!’: the grave, the barren womb, land, which is never satisfied with water, and fire, which never says, ‘Enough!’ The eye that mocks a father, that scorns an aged mother, will be pecked out by the ravens of the valley, will be eaten by the vultures. There are three things that are too amazing for me, four that I do not understand: the way of an eagle in the sky, the way of a snake on a rock, the way of a ship on the high seas, and the way of a man with a young woman.”

Agur then gets personal. Verses 10 and 11 warn us not to slander or curse others. This is a lesson for our world today. Have you listened to the news? Civility is missing, just hatred for anyone with a different opinion. Verses 12 through calls us to look inside ourselves, make an honest assessment of who we are compared to God. The caution is never to think too highly of yourself and too lowly of others. Agur compares greed to leeches. In verses 15 through 16, he talks about the insatiable appetite of human desires. The only real satisfaction in life comes from God. It is also amazing how Proverbs supports the role of parenting and its importance in life. Anyone who thinks that the role of a nuclear family is wrong is against the very teachings of God. Verses 17 through 19 define one of the worst displays of disrespect as mocking your parents. Agur says it kills relationships.

(Proverbs 30:20-28) – “This is the way of an adulterous woman: She eats and wipes her mouth and says, ‘I’ve done nothing wrong.’ Under three things the earth trembles, under four it cannot bear up: a servant who becomes king, a godless fool who gets plenty to eat, a contemptible woman who gets married, and a servant who displaces her mistress. Four things on earth are small, yet they are extremely wise: Ants are creatures of little strength, yet they store up their food in the summer; hyraxes are creatures of little power, yet they make their home in the crags; locusts have no king, yet they advance together in ranks; a lizard can be caught with the hand, yet it is found in kings’ palaces.”

Agur then sets a new tone on wisdom. He draws us back to the Creator who made everything remarkable. You don’t have to understand remarkable things, sometimes all you must do is appreciate them! There is a warning on adultery in verse 20. Too bad we still need this warning today after thousands of years. Then Agur goes directly to a warning on arrogance that is left unchecked (verses 21 through 28). We are to hold our arrogance in check and never, never underestimate anyone or anything that is in the hands of an Almighty God.

(Proverbs 30:29-33) – “There are three things that are stately in their stride, four that move with stately bearing: a lion, mighty among beasts, who retreats before nothing; a strutting rooster, a he-goat, and a king secure against revolt. If you play the fool and exalt yourself, or if you plan evil, clap your hand over your mouth! For as churning cream produces butter, and as twisting the nose produces blood, so stirring up anger produces strife.”

The last four verses (29 through 33) close on the idea that nothing is arrogant or foolish that has been created by God. All God’s creations are noble. Be angry, vent your anger if you must but Agur simply says, stop the foolishness. Anger produces nothing of lasting value. It is interesting to note that Agur ends his thoughts of wisdom by mentioning a lion. There is nothing stronger than a lion, or more courageous and undaunted. The lion walks with great majesty, very slowly, step by step, and this without fear. As Aristotle confirmed, the lion does not turn its back to anything of danger. It is not by chance that we call Christ, the Lion of Judah! The lion is the symbol of righteous people, who are called to be as bold as a lion. They cannot be moved from their duty by anything they meet up with. This is the wisdom of Agur, of his Proverbs, of Scripture, of the Son of God, of our mighty God Himself! Take comfort, says Agur.

Contemplations

• What is wisdom?
  • Ideas to Explore: Good advice? Things that are true? How do you know what is true? Things you learn from experience?
• What stands out to you?
  • Ideas to Explore: The structure of Agur’s prayer? His reference to the “Son of God?” The risk of either wealth or poverty?  Anything else?
• Where do you go for your “Wisdom?”
  • Ideas to Explore: Church, the Bible, Family, Friends, the Internet, News, Government, etc.
• How do you know the Truth, God’s Truth when you hear what is presented as wisdom?
  • Ideas to Explore: Experience, trusted friends, prayer, Biblical confirmation?

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  NIV New International Version Translations

We live in a world that loves to pervert the truth. The perversion occurs against both at the level of science and of Creation. If you have doubts, just watch the news for a few days. Can you discern any clear message on the topics of education, health, economy, our environment, causes of crime, drugs, warring countries? Do you even know who’s in charge of our own country? Nothing seems settled or sacred anymore including life. It is important to remember that science, the rules of our universe, were all created by God’s hand. There is but One Truth. Truth, however, has now become just an “inconvenient truth.” It appears that God’s Truth often interferes with the path to wealth and power. Our Apostle Paul tells us how this happens:

(Romans 1:21-25)¹NIV New International Version Translations – “For although they knew God, they neither glorified him as God nor gave thanks to him, but their thinking became futile, and their foolish hearts were darkened. Although they claimed to be wise, they became fools and exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images made to look like a mortal human being and birds and animals and reptiles. Therefore, God gave them over in the sinful desires of their hearts to sexual impurity for the degrading of their bodies with one another. They exchanged the truth about God for a lie and worshiped and served created things rather than the Creator—who is forever praised. Amen.”

Our question for this week should be how to get back on track with God?

(Ezekiel 22:30) – “I looked for someone among them who would build up the wall and stand before me in the gap on behalf of the land so I would not have to destroy it, but I found no one.”

Ezekiel was staring at gaps in a societal wall where perversions were commonplace. He was staring out at real walls too. The reference to the walls of Jerusalem was a metaphor for the ills of Jewish society. The condition of the “real walls” exemplified a decaying society. They no longer took pride in their city. Because of the perversions of society, the people, the children were not protected any longer. As Ezekiel called out to God for answers, God simply said, “fill the gaps with people who know the Truth.” God had searched but did not find anyone worthy to fill the role of “Wall Repairer.” Is there a place in our Bible where we might find such a “game plan” to redemption and better discernment? Where in society might we find the wall repairers?

In what is the second shortest book in the Bible, we might try the often overlooked second letter from the Apostle John. John is important because, as the oldest living disciple of Christ, John lived long enough to see how our world distorts the Truth about Christ. John may be the best author to help us understand how to handle the enemies of the Truth. John did not identify himself by name in this letter, but he did use the term “elder.” This was not without precedent. Peter did that very thing in his first letter (1 Peter 5:1). John’s short letter is written to “the chosen lady and her children,” a love he shared with those who knew the truth (2 John 1:1). The apostle was responding to reports he had received that this group of believers was following the teachings of Christ. That was a good thing.

(2 John 1:5) – “And now, dear lady, I am not writing you a new command but one we have had from the beginning. I ask that we love one another.”

There is nothing new in Second John that you cannot find in any other of the apostle’s writings. The apostle is extending a warning that some people are destructive to Christ’s message. John was simply warning this church about such false teachings. Remember, John was older and had more experience in the perversions of Jesus’ message and Truth. He saw how easy it was to destroy the very foundation of a Godly society. John told the church members not to accept those teachers in their homes that did not teach the Truth about Christ. Christ’s Truth: love each other and live out the true message that they had received from Him. Between Ezekiel’s and John’s message, one could summarize that society around the people of Israel was degrading. God’s plan was to plug the gaps, fix the societal ills with knowledgeable people who would serve Him. Unfortunately, God couldn’t find anyone.

Fast forward to today. Do you think society knows who Jesus is? Most people believe He was a real man but not enough believe He died for us. Our world today denies the Truth that Jesus is Christ, the resurrected Son of God. Life together in Christian love is great protection against deception. John uses the word “truth” five times in the first four verses. He speaks of those he “loves in truth”, those who “know the truth”, and living in Christ “for the sake of the truth”. In verse 4, John speaks of being glad to find “children walking in the truth”.

Just decades after the ministry of Jesus on earth, false teachers were already active in Jewish society. John spends the second half of this letter warning us against them. Believers today must be careful to know and understand the truth of the gospel and speak out against those who would manipulate it. In a world where truth is considered subjective and based on feelings, knowing, and living out biblical truth is critical to sustaining the impact of the gospel on our world.

John brings us back to the words of Jesus written in John 13:34, the commandment that “we have had from the beginning” (verse 5) that we should “love one another.” John goes on to tell us what this means: to “walk in obedience to his commands”. In this way honoring the truth of the gospel and living in obedience to it is specifically tied to the way we treat and love one another.

(2 John 1:12) – “I have much to write to you, but I do not want to use paper and ink. Instead, I hope to visit you and talk with you face to face, so that our joy may be complete.”

In a world driven by technology, mobile phones, social media, and instant communication, we often miss out on the joy of having a good old-fashioned face-to-face conversation. It is easy to miss both smiles and tears online. Second John ends with a declaration of having much to say but preferring to share these things “face to face” instead of writing them “with paper and ink”. His reason: so that the people’s “joy be made complete.”

COVID, mandatory masks, lockdowns have pressure tested everyone’s faith in God’s Truth. Let’s take a refresher:

• God is moral (e.g., His character, such His justice, and faithfulness) God gives us examples through Christ. God did not give us COVID! A sinful world gave us COVID!
• God is truth declares that the very definition of truth itself can be found only in God’s nature. Other things can be truthful, but only God Himself IS Truth.
• Hebrews 6:18 states that “God can’t lie.”
• God is unchanging: “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change” (James 1:17; see also Malachi 3:6; Hebrews 13:8). Because God does not change, we can remain confident in His ongoing faithfulness, truthfulness. This can never be said about humankind.

There was a time when following God’s Laws freed one from the impact of humanity’s interference. Rules, regulations were only meant to gird up God’s Commands, providing no one with an advantage. You remember, Exodus 20:13: “You shall not murder” meant no taking of innocent lives. Things have changed! Many disagree over the definition of when life itself begins, create policies that place children in harm’s way, even accept the collateral damage of a sinful society (watch Chicago’s news for a weekend). Is all of God’s Truth really subject to review and modification? Or has the Apostle John given us a message for today? John has told us that when we are in Christ, submitting to His truth, God’s Truth will prevail IN us. When that happens, something changes! God’s Truth overshadows our own opinions and desires. And what does all that get us? “You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free” (John 8:32).
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Contemplations

• What do you see in our country that God is most displeased with?
  • Ideas to Explore: Societal ills? Wealth? The extent of social programs disincentivizing labor? Lack of belief? Selfishness?  Who do we elect as leaders? Any you want to add?
• With society losing interest in God, what do you think the future looks like for our nation?
  • Ideas to Explore: God is no longer in schools. God is found in fewer and fewer families. Can society function without a belief in God?
• Why would Christ be so important to our society as compared to just generally believing in God?
  • Ideas to Explore: What is it about Christ’s command to love one another that binds Christians together? The command to love one another is between believers – do you think we are being called to love non-believers in such a way as to give them a free pass for sin? 
• What are your concerns with being asked to stand up and fill a gap in society’s wall?
  • Ideas to Explore: Twenty percent of the people do eighty percent of the good works. Why?
• What areas have you seen the intrusion of false teaching in both society and churches?
  • Ideas to Explore: How comfortable are you with “Discomfort?” Why is it that we never have enough time to become servants? What is your greatest fear in becoming a “wall repairer” and standing in the gap?
• What do you think it means not to accept those who are false teachers in your home?
  • Ideas to Explore: While in the apostle John’s time, this was taken as a literal statement, how would you interpret it today? Does this mean avoiding the support of friends, coworkers or politicians who are against what Jesus taught? Why or why not?
• John says to do “face-to-face” communications – what is lost when we don’t see someone’s face during a discussion?
  • Ideas to Explore: Impacts of COVID masks on education, families, neighbors? Could you share the Gospel’s message of hope with a mask on? What are the challenges? 

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  NIV New International Version Translations

Titus was one of at least two younger men that the Apostle Paul discipled. He described Titus as his “true son in our common faith” (Titus 1:4). Both Timothy and Titus served as Paul’s messengers and traveling companions. They both would go on to lead churches. Paul not only mentored them, but he also advised them through letters about their next steps for forming and pastoring churches.
Titus was a Gentile (Galatians 2:3) who was led to faith in Christ by Paul himself (Titus 1:4). He would accompany Paul and Barnabas from Antioch to Jerusalem (Titus is included in the comment “other believers” in Acts 15:2). Later, Titus would go to Corinth to serve the church there (2 Corinthians 8:6, 16-17). On Paul’s third missionary journey, which took place from A.D. 53 to 57, Paul arrived in Troas and expected to meet Titus there (2 Corinthians 2:12-13). Not finding Titus, Paul left for Macedonia.

Titus later rejoined Paul in Philippi and gave him a good report of the ministry in Corinth (2 Corinthians 7:6-7, 13-14). When Titus returned to Corinth, he hand-delivered one of Paul’s letters (2 Corinthians) and organized a collection for needy church members in Jerusalem (2 Corinthians 8:10, 17, 24). Titus is last mentioned in the Bible during Paul’s final Roman imprisonment. From Rome, Titus was sent to evangelize Dalmatia (2 Timothy 4:10), an area which later became known as Yugoslavia and is now called Serbia and Montenegro.

Many churches today focus more on the form of their worship, music styles, lighting, and building designs, than they do on the content of the faith they proclaim. We can learn from the Apostle Paul’s focus with Titus, that the church must first center its worship on sound doctrine and proper order. Paul starts off with the qualifications for elders and warns against false teachers and rebellious people in the first chapter of Titus. Leadership matters!

(Titus 1:5-9) ¹NIV New International Version Translations– “This is why I left you in Crete, so that you might put what remained into order, and appoint elders in every town as I directed you— if anyone is above reproach, the husband of one wife, and his children are believers and not open to the charge of debauchery or insubordination. For an overseer, as God’s steward, must be above reproach. He must not be arrogant or quick-tempered or a drunkard or violent or greedy for gain, but hospitable, a lover of good, self-controlled, upright, holy, and disciplined. He must hold firm to the trustworthy word as taught, so that he may be able to give instruction in sound doctrine and also to rebuke those who contradict it.”

In the second chapter Paul covers acceptable Christian behavior and family life, urging Titus himself to be a faithful example. Paul tells Titus:

(Titus 3:1) – “Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good,”

Paul reminds Titus to use his authority:

(Titus 2:15) – “These, then, are the things you should teach. Encourage and rebuke with all authority. Do not let anyone despise you.”

Paul knew that Corinth was a contemporary city of the times. It was wealthy and had many pagan churches. Because Corinth was a major trade route, it was a city representing many faiths and world views. Much of what would be written into Paul’s letters to Corinth would be about assuring that worship and teaching were done in concert with God’s Truth and with an assemblance of order. Titus was a faithful servant of Christ and a dedicated aide to Paul. He must have been trustworthy and dependable, since Paul appointed him to lead works in Corinth, Crete, and Dalmatia. Paul calls him “my partner and fellow worker” (2 Corinthians 8:23). Knowing the difficult situations in both Corinth and Crete, we can conclude that Titus was an insightful person and could handle problems with grace. Paul helped Titus consolidate his message of faith which is still applicable to Christians and churches today:

(Titus 1:1–4) – “Paul, a servant of God and an apostle of Jesus Christ to further the faith of God’s elect and their knowledge of the truth that leads to godliness—in the hope of eternal life, which God, who does not lie, promised before the beginning of time, and which now at his appointed season he has brought to light through the preaching entrusted to me by the command of God our Savior,”

(Titus 2:11–14) – “For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, while we wait for the blessed hope—the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, who gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good.”

(Titus 3:4–7) – “But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life.”

All three passages in Titus help define the Christian faith as our belief in the incarnation of Jesus Christ. Titus summarizes for us that it was only when God the Son took on human flesh in the person of Jesus was our faith in God the Father secured. Why? Because it was at that moment in history that God poured out His grace on all humanity! We were cleansed from our sins to be made right before God for His eternal purpose. The gift of Grace from God tells us to live an upright and godly life. We are to do this now, in our world and for these times (Titus 2:11–3:8).

How would you then value the short letter to Titus from the Apostle Paul? In summary, you might start off and say that our future lies in our youth. Mentoring our children in faith is critical to supporting Christ’s ongoing mission in our world. Next, I would hope that you might choose to see the importance of the character of any leader over wealth and style. If our Apostle Paul could walk our streets today, he would not focus with the sizes of the sanctuaries, worship styles, or the music coming out the doors. Paul would probably walk the neighborhoods around the churches to see whether people were hungry, sick, and cold. He might even ask to sit in on a Bible Study class or two and just listen. Is God’s Truth being taught? Are the people changing their worldly views for Godly views? Are they honoring the widows and orphans of the world? To the church in Philippi, Paul gave this final charge:

(Philippians 4:8) – “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”

Contemplations

• The Apostle Paul says to listen and obey leaders. If a leader is not trustworthy or has the wrong motivations, will you obey them?
  • Ideas to Explore: Is the role of leadership to teach, and correct? If so, will you listen to a leader who is teaching and living an ungodly life? While Paul uses these criteria in Titus for elders, how would they apply to business leaders, politicians, or people with great influence over society?
• When you are rebuked for something, how do you feel if the person doing it is not sincere and does the same things they are rebuking you for?
  • Ideas to Explore: Do you have an expectation that a teacher or someone who is setting rules, or judgment are living what they “Preach?” Why is that?
• Why is it necessary to have an orderly environment for worship and teaching?
  • Ideas to Explore: Can you learn in chaos? Describe the best environment for you to learn in. Why is it effective?
• Corinth was a very diverse city. Why would trying to accommodate everyone’s opinion be an impossible task when it comes to worship and teaching?
  • Ideas to Explore: Who’s standards should be used for worship and education? Does accommodation lead to a better relationship with God?

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  NIV New International Version Translations

Deborah is introduced along with the other 11 judges in the Book of Judges. She is the only female judge and the fourth judge chosen by God for Israel. The Bible records no dissent or rebellion against her. The people of her time had no difficulty in accepting her as a judge. This suggests that judges were seen as ‘God’s people’, and their gender was unimportant. This makes Deborah one of the most influential women of the Bible. She was a prophet, judge (ruler and military leader), and priestess. Her reputation was built on the foundation of her wisdom and courage. She would be the only woman of the Old Testament who is known for her own faith in God and her deeds as a leader. Whereas most other women were known as part of their relationship to a husband or another man. The Israelites recognized Deborah for her abilities. The nation prospered under her tenure. Her name means bee or honeybee. A good name when one considers that a bee works for the benefit of the hive and not themselves.

Her story is told in both prose (Judges 4) and poetry (Judges 5). Deborah is thought to be an Ephramite because she resided in Ephraim (Judges 4:5). Deborah led Israel for 60 years in the 12th century B.C. Her oversight spanned approximately 20 years of national hardship before the Canaanite war. It was followed by a period of peace for 40 years. Many scholars contend that the phrase, “a woman of Lappidot¹NIV New International Version Translations” (Judges 4.4) is a reference to marital status. Lappidot being her husband’s name. However, the Hebrew word “lappid” means a “torch” or “lightning.” It can be just as probable that Deborah was being called a “fiery woman.” She was only one of five women described as a prophet in the Old Testament. The four others are Miriam, Huldah (2 Kings 22:14, 2 Chronicles 34:22), Noadiah (Nehemiah 6:14), and “the prophetess” in (Isaiah 8:3). The only other person in the Bible who was said to be both prophet and judge was Samuel. Deborah’s story stands out because it offers our society an opportunity to learn important lessons:

• Discernment is required to lead – Not everyone, male or female, is equipped to be a leader. Discerning the call of the Holy Spirit is necessary. Deborah began her history of service to the people of Israel because she was able to respond to God’s calling. God did not care that she was a woman.
• We are called to be Obedient – When God calls, we are to listen! It is not necessary to understand His plans. We cannot! Our own obedience to God will affect the hearts and lives of others. To hear God’s call requires a quiet mind. God most often whispers.
• Courage is necessary – Through the Holy Spirit, God will provide obedient people the necessary qualifications for success. Faith is never easy. In fact, sometimes it is downright frightening. Most faithful experiences are out of our comfort zone. Remember, the purpose of courage is for God’s Glory, not ours. Both men and women can be courageous equally.
• Stand true to your faith – Do not expect the world to cooperate with God’s plans. The world is Satan’s domain. While we cannot see the future, we can stand firm in our faith in God and Jesus Christ.
• Finally, God will faithfully guide us – This is a certainty for both men and women.

We know about Deborah today because God wanted to give is a biblical example of how men and women are to live and work together. Barak, an Israelite warrior, commanded 10,000 troops. His task was to attack the Canaanites, under king Jabin. The Canaanites possessed superior military technology. Sisera, leader of the Canaanites, had a disciplined, professional army, and his troops were armed with iron weapons and 900 chariots. Barak had a citizen militia made up of volunteers from most of the twelve tribes of Israel. A few tribes were cowards and stayed at home. Barak knew that his own forces were fewer in number, untrained, and had inferior weapons. His hesitation is hardly surprising. Against such odds, it was unlikely that he could succeed.

This is where faith in God is important. For years, God has used the Canaanites as a tool of judgment against the Israelites for their idolatry (Judges 4:2). Deborah, upon receiving instructions from God, called on Barak to attack the Canaanites on Mount Tabor. Barak’s response was not a display of courage. He said, “If you go with me, I will go; but if you don’t go with me, I won’t go.” (Judges 4:8). Deborah agreed to go to battle with Barak and his troops. She shared with him that there will be no glory for him. In her faith and confidence, she tells Barak that God will deliver the enemy into the hands of a woman. But even Deborah did not know exactly what God had planned (Judges 4:9). Both went off to fight together.

Deborah’s strategy was to trick the Canaanites into driving their chariots onto marshy land. There they became bogged down. The Israelite slingmen and archers picked them off one by one. In the end, the enemy general Sisera, fled from the battlefield. He went towards an encampment of a woman called Jael the Kenite. He asked Jael for a drink of water and a place to rest during his retreat. Instead of water, she gave him milk. The milk made Sisera fall asleep. Jael would avenge the Israelites by driving a tent peg through Sisera’s head with a mallet while he slept. God was right, victory went to a woman that day.

Israel’s leaders were always expected to seek guidance from God by praying and meditating before proclaiming their ruling on a matter. Many of the judges were also thought of as prophets who could be thought of as a receptor of “a word from the Lord.” Deborah would often sit under a palm tree between Ramah and Bethel in the hill country of Ephraim. The Israelites would line up for her to rule on matters of importance to them. The two chapters, four and five, in the book of Judges begin with Israel’s disobedience. Then go on to describe a Holy War and its participants, ending with the victorious result (Judges 5:31). Deborah’s story is about people sinning, learning from hardships, then repenting, and finally crying out to God. Because the people had no bias against her as a woman, no bigotry, they were able to end their 20 years of oppression at the hands of the Canaanites. Because Israel had chosen a Godly leader, a generation of peace would follow. Unfortunately, the Israelites would fall back to old habits of worshiping idols again.

Contemplations

• What do you consider to be the criteria for a leadership position?
  • Ideas to Explore: Is gender an influence? What about their belief in God? How do you measure someone’s wisdom and discernment?
• How do you personally “listen to God?”
  • Ideas to Explore: How do you find the opportunities for God to speak to you? Can you discern God’s callings? 
• Where are your fears?
  • Ideas to Explore: All people have fears. Where are yours and how do you let God assure you of His presence? What do your fears keep you from doing? What circumstances would being fearful be considered wisdom?
• Where should a leader’s wisdom come from?
  • Ideas to Explore: Education, experiences, beliefs, God?
• Where do you see personal biases between men and women hurting our world?
  • Ideas to Explore: Where have the barriers been successfully removed? Where do the barriers remain? How do we unintentionally teach bias toward each other?

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  NIV New International Version Translations

The book of “Judges” is both a period of time and a book in the Bible. The time of the judges began after the death of Joshua in the early fourteenth century BC (Joshua 24:29). It continued until Saul was crowned king of Israel by the prophet Samuel in 1051 BC (1 Samuel 10:24). Think of the book of Judges as the sequel to the book of Joshua. Each is linked to each other by similar accounts of Joshua’s death (Joshua 24:29–31; Judges 2:6–9). The Old Testament book of Judges still remains important today. It documents a period in the history of the nation of Israel when they abandoned their belief in God. There were many wars and much religious turmoil that seems to cycle over and over. The people would rebel against their God through idolatry and sin. God would then provide them a judge (leader) to lead them back to God through repentance. They would cycle back to sin and more turmoil when death claimed the judge God had provided.

The book of Judges documents 12 leaders called “judges.” Some judges get several chapters and others only a paragraph. There were about 15 judges in total. The Hebrew term shofet, means “judge.” Its meaning is closer to “ruler” than the English meaning we use the word for today. The judges of the nation of Israel were more like a military leader or deliverer. The judge protected people from threats or actual defeat by their enemies. After Moses led the Israelites out of Egypt, Joshua then led them into the promised land. When Joshua died along with his generation, the Israelites’ knowledge of God also died. The Israelites then copied the idolatry and moral corruption of their neighbors.

(Judges 2:10)¹NIV New International Version Translations – “After that whole generation had been gathered to their ancestors, another generation grew up who knew neither the Lord nor what he had done for Israel.”

This is a most critical lesson to the Christian church today. Faith, our belief in God, is always but one generation away from extinction. History shows us this. After Joshua’s generation died off, the people began to worship other gods. Because God loves His people, He would test them. God would “hand them over to their enemies” both as a punishment and as a wakeup call. Each time, God then would send a judge from one of the surrounding nations. The new judge would then bring about both deliverance and repentance. After the death of a judge, the tribes of Israel would go back to idolatry and sinful practices. Whenever Israel would rebel against God, God would discipline them. But when Israel repented, God would deliver them. For the 480 years documented by the book of Judges, there would be constant cycles of sin and deliverance.

(Judges 2:11-12) – “Then the Israelites did evil in the eyes of the Lord and served the Baals. They forsook the Lord, the God of their ancestors, who had brought them out of Egypt. They followed and worshiped various gods of the peoples around them. They aroused the Lord’s anger.”

The contents of the book of Judges were not written chronologically. The final few chapters (Judges 17–21) give us an overview of the issues with morality that were described earlier in the book. It does offer us lessons about living today. Judges 17 opens with almost a comedy of idolatry. A rich man named Micah (not to be confused with Micah the prophet) and his mother use their money to make an idol. Micah then hires a Levite as his personal priest. He creates a home-grown cult.

(Judges 17:13) – “And Micah said, “Now I know that the Lord will be good to me, since this Levite has become my priest.”

By getting a religious authority to bless his idolatrous enterprise, Micah believes that he can convert God into his own ATM machine. Then God would give him the wealth and power he craves. This is exactly where the idea for the “prosperity Gospel” comes from. Micah’s actions are similar to those of many professing Christians today. Deciding that God’s written Word is outdated or constrictive, they invent a counterfeit Christianity that has “a form of godliness but denies its power” (2 Timothy 3:5). The book of Judges goes on to document sex, rape, abuse, plenty of sins to fill several Hollywood movies. The Israelites would keep forgetting the Truth from their God. They even forgot the miraculous events that brought them to their promised land and the covenant that united them to their God. God, however, never forgot them! What can we learn from the book of Judges?

• People are hopelessly sinful. In the days of the judges, “everyone did what was right in his own eyes” (Judges 17:6, 21:25). This is no difference than today.
• Once everyone defines their own morality and decadence, there will be chaos. Judges 17-21 offers us a conclusion of how bad things became. You can get a good picture of what happens when everyone made up their own rules. Add those verses to your reading list.
• God is patient. He would keep trying to bring His people to repentance, generation after generation. Again and again, God would save His people every time they repented. Once their judge was gone, it was back to their sinful ways. This points to human sinfulness and God’s faithfulness!
• Never underestimate the role of women in society. Judges holds a striking example of a courageous bold woman. Deborah was a judge, prophetess, and a conduit of God’s military might. Her own military leaders desired her presence at their side every time they went into battle. God can use EVERYONE for His purpose!
• God doesn’t let sin continue unabated forever. Joshua would warn the people of Israel that, if they abandoned God, “then you may be sure that the Lord your God will no longer drive out these nations before you. Instead, they will become snares and traps for you, whips on your backs and thorns in your eyes, until you perish from this good land, which the Lord your God has given you.” (Joshua 23:13). This is a warning for us as well. God is gracious, but God does not leave sin go unpunished.

The text of Judges gives us no sign of who wrote the book. Jewish tradition names the prophet Samuel as the author. The namesake of 1 and 2 Samuel, Samuel was considered the last of the judges. He was one of the special leaders whom God raised up during these times to rescue His people. The book of Judges is a tragic history of how God can be taken for granted by His children year after year, century after century. If we compare Judges to the book of Joshua, the contrast becomes clearer. Joshua writes about the blessings God bestowed on the Israelites for their obedience in conquering His land. In Judges, they were disobedient and idolatrous, leading to their many defeats. Yet God never failed to respond in love to His people whenever they repented and called upon His name.

(Judges 2:18) – “Whenever the LORD raised up a judge for them, he was with the judge and saved them out of the hands of their enemies as long as the judge lived; for the LORD relented because of their groaning under those who oppressed and afflicted them.”

Through the judges of Israel, God honored His promise to Abraham to protect and bless his offspring (Genesis 12:2-3). The Israelites of old represent a perfect example of what we should never become. Instead of learning from experience that God will always punish sin, they continued to disobey and suffer God’s displeasure and discipline. Here is the question now: Is this still true today? If we are disobedient to God, are we inviting God’s discipline? Like any good parent, God does not enjoy watching us suffer. “Because the Lord disciplines the one he loves, and he chastens everyone he accepts as his son.” (Hebrews 12:6). The Book of Judges documents God’s faithfulness, even when we are faithless.

(2 Timothy 2:13) – “if we are faithless, he remains faithful, for he cannot disown himself.”

History remains one of God’s greatest gifts. Remembering the past teaches us how to live today as well as prepares us for the future. Every time the Israelites would forget their history, they would forget their God. We also see through the book of Judges the impact that a leader can have on a nation. Leaders can win wars, conquer enemies, and focus the attention of a nation on God. What Israel’s leaders failed to do, was to permanently change the hearts of people. Yet God is telling us not to let difficult circumstances damage our faith. God is not only here for us, He never gives up on us. And to help us permanently, God sent His Son to show us His Truth. This is the salvation that any nation must seek.

Contemplations

• How does leadership within a nation affect the morality of that nation?
  • Ideas to Explore: Think about corporations, cities, states, our government, countries – How has the morality of the leaders affected those who live or work in them? Do you believe that the morality of a leader affects who they lead? Why or why not? What does history tell us?
• How do you think we should get our nation to call on the name of God once again for help?
  • Ideas to Explore: What is the role of the churches? What should the role of families be in affecting the beliefs of a nation? How can we influence businesses to be more in keeping with God’s Word?
• Do you believe that the people of our nation are idolatrous? Worshiping gods other than the one and only True God?
  • Ideas to Explore: What does it mean to be a consumer society? What should the role of the media, entertainment industry, sports industry, even educational institutions be in this issue?
• Do you believe that God is punishing our nation for its lack of faith in Him?
  • Ideas to Explore: The Bible has been consistent, God punishes. God gets people’s attention, how? God restores. Have you seen any examples of God involved in our world?
• Read Judges 17-21. Do you think that our world is similar, moving in that direction or there is no applicability?
  • Ideas to Explore: Wisdom about God requires open eyes. What can you do?

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  NIV New International Version Translations

Esther, or Hadassah in Hebrew meaning “myrtle,” is one of only two books of the Bible that does not mention God or God’s name. the other is Song of Songs. In fact, the author, who is unknown, goes out of their way to avoid using it. The Book of Esther reads like a Hollywood script. There are heroes, villains, evil plots, and divine triumphs. It is one of the only two books in the Bible named for women. The other, of course, is Ruth. Esther was an orphaned child, a Jewish slave living in exile. When Esther’s parents died, she was adopted and raised by her older cousin Mordecai. However, she would be taken from her home as a child to live in the palace of King Xerxes along with many other girls of his harem. Child trafficking is defined as “the “recruitment, transportation, transfer, harboring or receipt” of a child for the purpose of exploitation”. Esther was clearly a victim of sex trafficking. It was the only reason why she was taken and brought to the Persian king.

The storyline is set during a time when the Jewish population suffered much racial hatred. They had been a minority in Persia for many years. The events in the book take place from 483 BC to 473 BC, during the first half of the reign of King Xerxes. This was 100 years after the Babylonian captivity under Nebuchadnezzar, and just over 50 years after Zerubbabel led the first group of exiles back to Jerusalem. Many Jews remained in Persia. They were part of the diaspora, or “scattering” of exiles among the nations. Although they were free to return to Jerusalem by the Edict of Cyrus¹ https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Edict_of_Cyrus, many had become established and probably did not wish to risk the dangerous journey back to their homeland. Esther and her family had been among the Jews who stayed behind in Persia.

At the beginning of the book of Esther, King Xerxes throws a banquet and asks his wife, Queen Vashti, to look beautiful for him in front of the guests. It is thought that this was his request for her to appear naked before the guests. She refused, and after consulting his counsel, Xerxes has Vashti exiled. King Xerxes then orders a search of the entire kingdom for a beautiful virgin to become his next bride. Many young women are taken into the king’s palace where they receive twelve months of beauty treatments prior to their turn to go to the king. Esther is one of those chosen as part of the king’s harem.

As all Scripture is “God Breathed,” the Book of Esther gives us a direct message on God’s sovereign control over history. God would give Esther favor over all of those in the king’s harem and she would become the Queen of Susa. Susa, also called Shushan, referred to as the citadel of Susa, was the capital of the Persian Empire. It was the location of the Royal Palace of King Xerxes. Esther would not reveal her nationality or family background as Mordecai advised her. Although Esther had little control over her life, God would do great works in and through her life.

One of Esther’s strengths was her willingness to be mentored. She sought the advice of the harem director Hegai on how to please the king which assisted her in winning his approval to be crowned queen. In addition, on multiple occasions she trusted her cousin Mordecai and acted on his recommendations. Mordecai’s wise counsel and Esther’s application of it would save the king’s life from an assassination attempt and later saved the Jewish people from a plot to destroy them. Esther was courageous and humble, and used by God to protect His people.

After Esther is made queen, Mordecai uncovers a plot to assassinate the king and tells Esther, who alerts the king giving credit to Mordecai. The men involved in the plot are hanged. Sometime later, a powerful man named Haman is promoted to be the king’s top official. The king also commands that his servants at the gate bow down to Haman. But Mordecai will not bow before anyone except God. The others at the king’s gate asked Mordecai about this, but he continues to refuse to pay homage to Haman. Mordecai also told the others he was a Jew. The others tell Haman about Mordecai’s refusal to bow, and the official becomes furious. Haman is not satisfied to just seek vengeance against Mordecai, he also wants to destroy the Jews. Haman tells the king there is a group of people living within the kingdom’s provinces with different laws whom the king should not tolerate. He asks the king to make a decree that the people be destroyed.

(Esther 3:13)²NIV New International Version Translations – “Dispatches were sent by couriers to all the king’s provinces with the order to destroy, kill and annihilate all the Jews–young and old, women and children–on a single day, the thirteenth day of the twelfth month, the month of Adar, and to plunder their goods.”

Esther is not aware of the king’s decree until Mordecai tells her about it. Mordecai specifically asks Esther to intercede with the king on behalf of the Jewish people. However, even as queen, Esther is not allowed to see the king unless he summons her by name. He has not done so for thirty days. To go to Xerxes uninvited would be to risk being put to death. Mordecai extends a warning to Esther:

(Esther 4:13–14) – “he sent back this answer: “Do not think that because you are in the king’s house you alone of all the Jews will escape. For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father’s family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?”

Esther agrees to approach the king without being summoned even though she could be put to death and says:

(Esther 4:16) – “Go, gather together all the Jews who are in Susa, and fast for me. Do not eat or drink for three days, night or day. I and my attendants will fast as you do. When this is done, I will go to the king, even though it is against the law. And if I perish, I perish.”

Esther urged all the Jews to fast and pray for deliverance for three days. Then, risking her own life, a courageous young Esther approached the king with her request. She requested and arranged for a banquet, inviting Xerxes and Haman. There she revealed her Jewish heritage to the king. Esther also revealed Haman’s plot to have her, and her people killed. In a rage, the king ordered Haman to be hung on the gallows, the very same gallows Haman had built for Mordecai. Mordecai was promoted to Haman’s high position and Jews were granted protection throughout the land. The people celebrated God’s tremendous deliverance. In remembrance, the joyous festival of Purim was instituted.

You will need to read the Book of Esther³ https://bible.org/download/netbible/ondemand/bybook/est.pdf yourself to know the details of the entire story. Through the courage of Esther and Mordecai, the Jews living in Persia are spared. In this story, we see God’s interaction with the will of humankind, the hatred that can come from racial prejudice, God’s power to give wisdom and God’s help in times of danger. God is at work in the lives of His people. He used the circumstances in Esther’s life, as He uses the decisions and actions of all humans to providentially work out His divine plans and purposes. We can trust in God’s sovereign care over our lives. A simple child, trafficked as if she was property, was raised up to the same level as Moses, Joshua, Joseph, and many others to deliver God’s people from destruction. In the same way, through Jesus Christ, born to an unwed teenager, we are delivered from death and eternal suffering. God will save His children! And what else does the story of Esther tell us?

• Everyone has a purpose within God’s creation, everyone
• To follow God is never easy
• To follow God takes submission, humility, courage, and wisdom
• Prayer has an impact
• God’s plans always prevail

Contemplations

• What evidence do you see in Esther’s responses to her life’s issues that show you she was an intelligent young lady?
  • Ideas to Explore: How she handled advice and sought cousel even in difficult situations. 
• Where did Esther show bravery?
  • Ideas to Explore: How did Esther approach the risks of going against her king’s laws. Why did she seek fasting and prayer? Why would she ask all other Jews in Persia to do the same?
• In what ways did Esther honor her relationships?
  • Ideas to Explore: Saving the king’s life; promoting Mordecai over herself; Remaining faithful to God.
• While it is hard to imagine her fears and experiences, what helped Esther survive?
  • Ideas to Explore: The importance of faith in God. Respect for Mordecai, her elder. Her overall honor to both a human king and God.
• If someone is in a difficult situation, what advice might you give them from the story of Esther?
  • Ideas to Explore: Keep faith in God. Be smart, listen and work to survive. Other thoughts?

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  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Edict_of_Cyrus
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  NIV New International Version Translations
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  https://bible.org/download/netbible/ondemand/bybook/est.pdf

To continue our journey on what is just, let’s look at how our world views the subject of justice. Our dictionary, from Merriam-Webster, defines justice “as the maintenance or administration of what is just, especially by the impartial adjustment of conflicting claims or the assignment of merited rewards or punishments.” It basically says:

• Justice is work, a job that we all must subscribe to. It is to administer or maintain fairness.
• Justice is to be impartial. That means the bias from politics, media, the powerful (wealthy) should not be part of the process.
• Justice is about conflicting claims. It begins with at least two sides, both with differing views. The job of justice is to reconcile the truth, or better yet, wrestle the truth from a myriad of facts and fiction.
• The final goal of justice is to reward the righteous and punish the wicked.

Our world is very good at creating conflicting claims. Each side seeks the distribution of rewards or punishment with prejudice. How then do we set about resolving the conflicting claims of our society? God began His creation by dignifying us with free will, the power to make decisions on our own. Rather than having God or fate predetermine what we do, as a human race we are free to assess and decide what is a just course of action when faced with conflicts. 

(Genesis 1:26)¹NIV New International Version Translations – Then God said, “Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the wild animals, and over all the creatures that move along the ground.”

Unlike animals, which act mainly on instinct, humans were created to resemble their Creator. This is where true justice begins. God has in His character the infinite capacity for love and fairness. Humans, created in God’s likeness, were given a similar power to rule with love. Humans were also given the power to rule over God’s world.  Like our Creator, we have the free will to impact our future. More frightening is that we have the free will to impact the future of others too.

(Deuteronomy 30:19-20) – “This day I call the heavens and the earth as witnesses against you that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live and that you may love the Lord your God, listen to his voice, and hold fast to him. For the Lord is your life, and he will give you many years in the land he swore to give to your fathers, Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.”

Justice is always about choosing sides. Matthew tells us that free will is a precious gift from God. Because of that gift, we are each called to first love God with our “whole heart” (Matthew 22:37). Without free will, our freedom is meaningless. Yet, the many “conflicting claims,” create a constant necessity for hard choices. As examples:

• Is it ever OK to allow violence and crime to exist under a definition of fairness?
• How should God’s Laws and Truths affect fairness and justice?
• Can justice ever exist without accountability for the wicked?
• What is fair reconciliation between a victim and a law breaker?
• Can our world force a just free will on society?

(Jeremiah 17:10) – “I the Lord search the heart and examine the mind, to reward each person according to their conduct, according to what their deeds deserve.”

(Psalm 33:5) – “The LORD loves righteousness and justice; the earth is full of his unfailing love.”

All justice must begin by first understanding God’s virtuous character. Society must align its own values to those of God. God tried to give us simple rules, ten to be exact. Grace, or the free gift of grace, provided humanity with three theological virtues. Theological virtues are the God-like characteristics of charity, faith and hope.  (See our comprehensive study on these and other virtues Here) A person receives the theological virtues by being “infused” through God’s grace into a new person. Charity, faith and hope cannot be forced upon the free will of any society. Without God, there can be no charity, faith, or hope. Without God, there can never be justice.

“Because they have God for their object, both in so far as by them we are properly directed to Him, and because they are infused into our souls by God alone, as also, finally, because we come to know of them only by Divine revelation in the Sacred Scriptures” – Aquinas.

The farther a society moves from God, the farther it moves from its ability to maintain or administer fair and equitable justice. This may be subtle, but God has clearly created humans NOT to respond to forced justice but, instead, to respond to the force of God’s justice. Justice is important because the act of upholding good and punishing evil is necessary for having a safe society that is dedicated to the benefit of all people (Dictionary.com). When justice is not upheld, those doing wrong will continue to do wrong, while those who are doing right will continue to suffer. Justice is important because every person will not choose what is deemed right in society. Since justice includes the punishment of the wrong and the upholding of the good, justice must be implemented to maintain what is deemed right or appropriate. Conflicting claims must always be reconciled but against whose standards and truths?

God’s Truth along with accountability are the correct foundation for any system of fair justice. Success or failure should never be determined by fate, wealth, or power. Successful justice requires hard work. Impartiality requires unbiased concern for each other. “You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love” (Galatians 5:13).

The United States has the highest incarceration rate in the world. How did we get here? Like the Pharisees of Jesus’ time, our laws have become needlessly complex. They are often clouded by politics and influenced by money. For example, in the Biblical justice system a false witness received punishment, but in the American justice system slander, defamation, and character assassination often go unpunished, and instead, are rewarded. Yet, God’s Truth has not changed since our earth was created by His command. The problem with humanity is with the heart, not the scales of justice!

(John 13:34) – “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.”

Jesus was always clear about how to treat one another. Just look and read the parable about the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37). Love is intended to comfort the victims of our world. Love is also intended to uphold God’s Law for those who need to be held accountable for their actions. Jesus came for all those in need of repentance, restoration. and renewal. A library of law books will never save a single soul. A virtuous population seeking God will make all the difference in this world.

Contemplations

• What do you think about the justice system in our country?
  • Ideas to Explore: Are we too soft on criminals? Is incarceration a reasonable deterrent? What is missing from our educational system? Is punishment without repentance of any value?
• What should society do with repeat offenders?
  • Ideas to Explore: Should there be a limit to society’s tolerance for crime? Are there crimes that are a result of societal problems?  Are there people who cannot be rehabilitated? If so, why?
• God is missing from schools and homes. Do we need to bring Him back?
  • Ideas to Explore: How do we teach God’s Truth to a nation? How do we raise children to honor God and family?
• Can government force people to be generous and forgiving?
  • Ideas to Explore: Can the government spend your money better than you can? How do you increase Charity, Faith, and Hope?
• Where is society still teaching bias, bigotry and divisiveness?
  • Ideas to Explore: In the home? In schools? Our government?  Where else? How would you change it?
• How would you remove bias from our judicial system?
  • Ideas to Explore: Media’s influence? Influence from Politics? Money, do wealthy have an advantage? Why?

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  NIV New International Version Translations

There is a new term entering into our national vocabulary. It is “Restorative Justice.” With many of the recent changes in jail bail amounts, dropping of cash bail requirements, defunding of policing, and lowering thresholds defining the severity of crimes, the debate has become whether justice for the populous is served by simply reducing the severity associated with criminal activity. This study looks at the biblical definition and support for the ideas behind restorative justice.

Restorative justice is meant to repair the harm caused by crime. It is based on a collaborative process between victims, offenders, and community members. The emphasis of restorative justice is accountability. It involves restoration of the victims’ rights, as well as those of the offenders. What restorative justice is not is the continued release of offenders without accountability. The word restore comes from the Latin word rēstaurāre to rebuild, to bring back to health, to return (something lost, stolen) to its owner or to re-introduce, re-enforce, or restore discipline.

Crime is not new in our human history. In Genesis, the first book of the Bible, we are given an immediate introduction to a horrific crime, murder. Adam and Eve’s sons, the brothers Cain and Abel, find themselves in competition for God’s favor. Cain kills his brother most likely with a stone in a fit of jealousy. We read on in Genesis that society continues to break down and God is forced to bring on the “Big Flood.” A man named Noah saves humanity and humanity gets another try. God then lays out a restorative plan for everyone. We see the roots of biblical restorative justice begin here with God’s covenant to Abraham:

(Genesis 12:1-3)[ref]NIV New International Version Translations[/mfn] – “The Lord had said to Abram, ‘Go from your country, your people and your father’s household to the land I will show you. I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you.’”

Today, society might blame the murder of Abel on the availability of stones. Yet, to kill, to destroy life takes many forms. Weapons can be anything: a car, a hostile relationship, drugs, or simply a choice to end the life of a child rather than become a parent. Poor decisions are behind every crime. The nature of the problem with restoration lies totally in the heart (mind). Fear of imprisonment, or incentives have never worked well. For Restorative justice to be successful requires the transformation of a heart into one that seeks to please God.

God responded to human depravity, alienation, and injustice by first creating a covenant with His people. God established a set of Laws. God’s promise was to ultimately create a lasting community of peace. It is still God’s promise! Members will share the community together, peacefully, and forever. Restorative justice, therefore, begins with conforming to the Will of God. God’s justice has always been intended for the salvation of His people and the restoration of covenant relationships. God’s love is always working to set right that which has been and continues to be corrupted.

(Ephesians 2:12-13) – “remember that at that time you were separate from Christ, excluded from citizenship in Israel and foreigners to the covenants of the promise, without hope and without God in the world. But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near by the blood of Christ.”

The emphasis of God’s covenant is on God’s purposes, not ours. Think of our earth as a classroom. It is here, where we can learn about God’s community and God’s plan of service others. The goal of humanity’s justice, however, begins with the relationships we have with each other. God is usually excluded from the equation. Biblical teaching emphasizes the poor and needy, their oppression, and their exclusion from community life. We are taught that if we don’t help each other, the community is destroyed. Everyone is harmed. For there to be peace in our world, justice and righteousness must both be present. Justice and righteousness are clearly associated with the presence of God. History reminds us that evil calls bad things good and gains its power and wealth at the expense of the poor and weak. Instead of justice, our world gives us turmoil, crime, and war.

Biblical “Justice” is by its very nature, restorative. The Bible’s God is “just” especially in that God seeks to bring about healing in relationships, transform communities, restore offenders into God’s family, and bless all the families of the earth. This cannot be done unless we cooperate with God, and this cannot be done without repentance. Repentance begins with the personal discovery of sin. It is accompanied by the deep understanding that we are sinful and then followed by a resolution to change ourselves. The change brought about by a repenting heart is not a superficial change. It is a deep and practical change in our fundamental beliefs. For Restorative Justice to prevail, there must always be a turn from sin toward righteousness. This requires an understanding that sin is offensive to God! For Restorative Justice to prevail within our world, our world must believe that God’s existence is True and that God is worthy of our obedience. Eliminating God from society is not the answer!

(1 John 3:1-3) – “See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him. Dear friends, now we are children of God, and what we will be has not yet been made known. But we know that when Christ appears, we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is. All who have this hope in him purify themselves, just as he is pure.”

The path to successful Restorative Justice is through the Cross of Jesus Christ! The Cross first forgives, then transforms the heart.

(Romans 5:9-10) – Since we have now been justified by his blood, how much more shall we be saved from God’s wrath through him! For if, while we were God’s enemies, we were reconciled to him through the death of his Son, how much more, having been reconciled, shall we be saved through his life!

Contemplations

• Prison ministries are not new. Why do you think we do not hear more about their success?
  • Ideas to Explore: Hatred of God? Biased media? Disbelief? Fear?
• Have you seen examples of Restorative Justice that worked?
  • Ideas to Explore: Youth programs and camps? Testimonies?
• We live in a world that rewards sinful actions – How do you restore one’s heart and change their beliefs?
  • Ideas to Explore: Does accountability help? Where do prisons fail the offenders?
• What would you do to help someone who has led a life of crime, been in prison many times, has no skills, and no family except the street?
  • Ideas to Explore: Incarceration protects society. However, what should be done to help those offenders after they are released?