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Inspiration for Today's World

Category: Shadows (Page 23 of 25)

A Peak At Proverbs

What motivates you? Our society is very good at using the infamous “carrot and stick” approach. There is always an offer too good to be true, free is a big one, followed usually by the stick approach, some adverse circumstance that must be avoided at all costs.  We were raised that way, the billions spent on advertising depend on the human response to carrots and sticks. And then there are the tens of thousands of rules, regulations, and penalties affecting our lives. Control of behavior usually is accompanied by a sense of urgency. In reality, however, basic human behavior is driven from a much deeper source, the very roots of our beliefs.

The work of psychiatrist Albert Ellis1https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Albert_Ellis in the mid-1950s developed the original form of cognitive-behavioral therapy called Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT). Ellis believed that most people were not aware that many of their thoughts about themselves are irrational and negatively affect the way they behave in important relationships and situations. According to Ellis, it is these thoughts that lead people to suffer negative emotions and engage in self-destructive behavior. To simplify this further, it meant that bad behavior, even sins in the eyes of our God, come from deep within our own beliefs which were formed by the many experiences, good and bad, within our lives. To behave in terms satisfactory to our God, to change our behavior, therefore, first requires an understanding of our beliefs, and how they were formed.

  • We can look to a much earlier time, to our Bible, to see that the idea of proper instruction, the formation of Godly behaviors, was always understood to be rooted in what you believe. Proverbs taught wisdom through short points and principles but were not regarded as “laws” or even universal promises.
  • Proverbs by design pointed to observations, meant to be memorized and pondered, not always intended to be applied ‘across the board’ to every situation without qualification. It is said that Solomon could quote over 3,000 proverbs.
  • Proverbs generalize, as a proverb must, and may seem to make life too tidy to be true. Example: While “Many hands make light work,” Too many cooks spoil the broth.” A proverb is not a magical formula, bringing wisdom and blessing by incantation. It has no value unless it is applied to the proper set of circumstances with common sense.
  • Proverbs rarely quote other parts of Scriptures and are analogous to folk wisdom. We find, however, its own description in Proverb 12NIV New International Version Translations.

1 The proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israel: 2 for gaining wisdom and instruction; for understanding words of insight; 3 for receiving instruction in prudent behavior, doing what is right and just and fair; 4 for giving prudence to those who are simple, knowledge and discretion to the young—5 let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance—6 for understanding proverbs and parables, the sayings and riddles of the wise. 7 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction.

Proverbs, also called The Book Of Proverbs, is an Old Testament book of “wisdom” found in the third section of the Jewish canon, known as the Ketuvim, or Writings. The book is called, “The proverbs of Solomon,” We should not give full credit to King Solomon, the writings are from a collection of wisdom materials (mostly short sayings) from a wide variety of periods and cultures. The book of Proverbs provides us with a poetic roadmap of how God has designed the world to work. Following the practical day-to-day guidance of Proverbs was intended to make our lives more pleasant. Proverbs are simply God’s advice and wisdom for His people. There is a subtle use of language here, a difference between advice and wisdom. Seeking wisdom and not just advice requires more work in the human heart. It means that we need to root out the sources of our beliefs that inhibit change and make sure that what we choose to believe is founded on observations that are real, like those found in Proverbs. Good wisdom is the only thing that can change erroneous beliefs and lead to changed behavior.

Here is a link from a website, KnowingJesus.com3https://www.knowing-jesus.com/. They offer a list of over 900 of the points of wisdom found in the Book Of Proverbs, sorted by popularity. For this lesson, lets look at just the top three from their list and see how each might impart wisdom and deal with the beliefs in our world today.

Number Three

Proverbs 1:7 – The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; Fools despise wisdom and instruction.

The fear of the LORD, the fear of the God who not only created the universe but who deigned us to be in relationship with Him, is said to be the prerequisite for true wisdom. This is being described as a good fear to have because it teaches us our place in the world and how to live well in it. Fear of God keeps us from that huge mistake made by Adam and Eve, to be deceived by Satan, into thinking that we too can be like God. Historically people did “fear God” in the sense that they were genuinely afraid of Him. Although God bestowed blessings, He also was a God of judgment. If you did not respect God, you had good reason to fear Him. “It is a dreadful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.” (Heb. 10:31).

The Bible offers a sample of such evidence of why people were afraid of God:

  • In Genesis there was Noah’s Flood that wiped out all the evil people on earth;
  • God’s fire destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah because of their sins (Gen. 18:20-19:25);
  • In Exodus we see the plagues that came upon Egypt, some of which also affected the Israelites;
  • In Leviticus we see that when Aaron’s sons offered unlawful fire before Yahweh, fire came out of their containers and burned them to death (Lev. 10:1-3); and
  • God also had His tent (the “Tabernacle”) put behind curtains. Any unauthorized person who came to God’s sanctuary was to be put to death (Num. 3:5-10, 38).

There are always consequences when dealing with God, and some of those consequences can be serious. God does not threaten us, He lovingly and honestly warns us the way any concerned parent warns a child. Examples of human disobedience bringing consequences exist throughout the Bible. Our God is never to be taken lightly and any direct disobedience is always dangerous to both our earthly and eternal safety.

Number Two

Proverbs 22:6 – Train up a child in the way he should go, even when he is old, he will not depart from it.

Our proverb on children has been proven time and time again. Beliefs are typically formed early in life. Many of them come from either experiences, observation or formal education. There are a few of the important points of wisdom in this Proverb. First, is the required “action” on the part of those around the child. We are called to initiate, train, and educate our children. The most important part, however, is that the educational purpose is to give them direction, a path to follow for their life. The path is to be especially fitted for the individual child’s character. Their teaching is to enjoin the closest possible study of each child’s temperament and the adaptation of “their way of life” to that path. Yes, it means according to their capacity and potential. With every child whose path crosses ours, their beliefs, their future behavior choices will be influenced by how we influence them.

Here is just one example:

In 1874 Richard L. Dugdale was employed by the New York Prison Commission to visit the state prisons. As he visited, he was surprised to find criminals in six different prisons whose relatives were mostly criminals or paupers, and the more surprised to discover that these six criminals were all descended from the same family.

This led Mr. Dugdale to study their relatives, living and dead. He studied the court and prison records, reports of town poorhouses, and the testimony of old neighbors and employers. He learned the details of 540 descendants of “Max” (the name given to the patriarch born about 1720) in five generations. He learned the exact facts about 169 who married into the family. He traced others linked to the family bringing the number up to 1,200 persons of the family of the Jukes (Juke was not the real name of the family). A. E. Winship described the family as having almost universal traits of idleness, ignorance, and vulgarity. They would not work, they could not be made to study, and they loved vulgarity. It was difficult to find anyone who was honest and industrious, pure and prosperous in the Juke family.

In 1897 A. E. Winship was asked by a scholarly organization to prepare a paper on Jonathan Edwards. During his studies Winship discovered the descendants of Edwards presided over the New York Prison Commission during the time when it employed Mr. Dugdale to make a study of the Jukes. This led Winship to a study in contrast between Jukes and Edwards. Jonathan Edwards’ great-great-grandfather, Richard Edwards, who went from Wales to London about 1580, was a clergyman. Among the first men of the Edwards family to come to the colonies in New England was William, a son of this clergyman, born about 1620, who came to Hartford, where his son Richard, was born in 1647.

Jukes family summary
  • 310 of the 1,200 were professional paupers—more than one in four.
  • 300 of the 1,200—one in four—died in infancy from lack of good care and good conditions.
  • 50 women who lived lives of notorious debauchery.
  • 400 men and women were physically wrecked early by their own wickedness.
  • 7 were murderers.
  • 60 were habitual thieves who spent on the average twelve years each in lawlessness.
  • 130 criminals who were convicted often of crime.
Edwards family summary
  • 1 U.S. Vice-President (Aaron Burr)
  • 3 U.S. Senators
  • 3 governors
  • 3 mayors
  • 13 college presidents
  • 30 judges
  • 65 professors
  • 80 public office holders
  • 100 lawyers
  • 100 missionaries, pastors, and theologians.

The witness we are to our children now, the teachings, the wisdom they are offered will create the beliefs that are established in their minds. It will be these beliefs that emanate as the behavior society will see. If we use God as our principle source of wisdom, we can make a positive difference in this world.

Number One

Proverbs 3:5 – Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding.

This proverb is simply comparing the intellectual power of humans to a power, a Creator of all things, to something greater than that which can be found in humanity. It is a recognition that mankind may not the highest form of intellect in the universe. This is an observational piece of wisdom, discerned through the recognition that human life is finite, its knowledge bounded by time itself, and always found to be inconsistent. Just look at history. Trust, therefore, should be placed in the highest authority that can be found to exist. Of all the Proverbs, this one is the most dependent upon observation and forces a binary decision for us. Each person needs to decide if God is real or not. That may be the most important observation and decision that anyone can make in their lifetime. We are not asked to blindly trust and suspend our critical judgment. Rather, we are asked to have confidence that living for God is a reasonable thing to do and that our life will be better because we live for God.

The wisdom found in Proverbs lets us compare those deep-seated beliefs that drive our behavior against another standard, the expectations of our covenant Lord. Proverbs teach us that wisdom is not necessarily all about what we know and do but also about who God is, what He’s done for us, and how we can lead a life more pleasing to Him. That is the heart of the book called Proverbs and the primary reason why all should study it.

Contemplations

  • Where would you say your primary beliefs about God originally came from?
    • Ideas to Explore: Family members; early church experiences; later in life, experiences drawing you to think about your faith walk?
  • Have you ever had to change a fundamental belief you had? Why? Was it difficult and what did you do to help the process? Who were the influential people in your life? What made you change?
    • Ideas to Explore: Many times we just learn things incorrectly; Opinions are often formed from observing parents – are there any early observations that turned out to be both influential on you but also wrong; How do we pass on erroneous beliefs onto our children?
  • Where do you find your sources of worldly wisdom today?
    • Ideas to Explore: Do you or have you read Proverbs? Are you a quote-a-holic, a person who loves quotes from famous people?  What standards do you apply to a “bit of wisdom” to assure yourself that it is worthy and true? What do you read?
  • Do you think that Proverbs are still relevant today as a source of wisdom?
    • Ideas to Explore: Why? Are they timeless? If so, why? Why do you think they appeal to children?
  • How should The Book Of Proverbs be worked into life today?
    • Ideas to Explore: Do you plan on reading it? Should favorite proverbs be shared with others? Have you ever put a proverb out on social media?

 

Sin and Sacrifice

As we move off our focus on Christ’s birth and start a new year, it might be a good time to reflect on why our God requires us to sacrifice in order to remove sin. Why did Jesus come as the incarnate sacrifice to end all sacrifices? It is a concept as old as the Bible is itself. There are two parts to look at here. First, what exactly is a sin and second, why it took a sacrifice to remove them from us? 

Look no farther than Genesis Chapter 3:1-4, “Now the serpent was more crafty than any of the wild animals the Lord God had made. He said to the woman, “Did God really say, ‘You must not eat from any tree in the garden’?” The woman said to the serpent, “We may eat fruit from the trees in the garden, but God did say, ‘You must not eat fruit from the tree that is in the middle of the garden, and you must not touch it, or you will die.’” “You will not certainly die,” the serpent said to the woman. “For God knows that when you eat from it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.”1NIV New International Version Translations At first glance, this is both a deception and a temptation. Until both Eve and Adam acted on the serpent’s trickery, it was not sin yet. Since this is the very first sin of our newly created world, it is worth spending time to look at it closely. Here are a few items to ponder:

  • The serpent, Satan to us, was called crafty, more than any other animals that Adam and Eve were to encounter in their Garden. Deceit is a frequent companion of sin. 
  • God had given Adam and Eve a specific directive, an instruction, that involved their behavior. There was no interpretation necessary here, “Don’t eat from that specific tree!” It was a rather straightforward, easy-to-understand instruction directly from God.
  • God told them the truth because, until they both sinned, they would have lived forever. Once the disobedience occurred, Adam and Eve would succumb to what all humans today must face, death. The consequences of disobedience were serious.

It is worth noting here, that God could have interceded. God could have kept bad things from happening to good people, Adam and Eve, but He did not. The consequences of Adam’s and Eve’s choices were always clear to them. God reiterated  those consequences after their disobedient act and also let the damage done by their choice stand. While the damage would not stand for eternity, God lets humans be free, free to make their choices. It is this inherent freedom that everyone of us would stand up and ask for in our lives that also opens the door to the consequences of poor choices. That is the price of freedom.

  • Satan lied. He misrepresented the risk of disobedience to God’s directive.  Furthermore, the enticement was to “be like God.” One then can conclude that such an attempt to “be like God” is a sin, carrying eternal consequences. The Apostle Paul summarizes it this way in Romans 1:21, “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.” This simply means being alienated from the life of God because of our ignorance on account of the hardness of our hearts. Separation from God is a dangerous state to exist in.
  • Lastly, because mankind was created with free will, Adam and Eve always had a choice. We can choose to eat good food or unhealthy food, do dangerous things and take risks, and grab a pot on the stove when our mother tells us it is HOT!  Yes, I still have a scar from that one as a child. Freedom, therefore, is an inherent part of the human race.

We often think of sin as wrongdoing or a transgression of God’s law. Sin usually includes a failure to do what is right, a bad decision. But sin also can be an offense against people. It can include violence and loveless acts toward other people, and ultimately, any rebellious act against God. Sin then involves direct disobedience against our God, in one way or another. Either disobedience to His direct instructions or a heart darkened to the needs of those around us in our world. The Apostle Paul calls out the consequences of failing to glorify God further in  Romans 1:26-32. These are Paul’s words, not my words but it lay out the nature of sin in our world in rather graphic ways, and they define what happens in our world when God lets us have our own way. Since the beginning of time, have done a terrible job of deciding what is right and wrong. Society tries but history shows we rarely get it right, right enough to please our Creator. Therefore, how can we ever stand before God as imperfect sinners? We alone cannot!

Where did the idea of a sacrifice atoning for sin come from? Just a few verses after Eve and Adam taste the apple, we have the very first sacrifice in our world. Genesis 3:8-9, “Then the man and his wife heard the sound of the Lord God as he was walking in the garden in the cool of the day, and they hid from the Lord God among the trees of the garden. But the Lord God called to the man, “Where are you?” He answered, “I heard you in the garden, and I was afraid because I was naked; so I hid.” and in verse 21, “The Lord God made garments of skin for Adam and his wife and clothed them.” Adam and Eve had made a strategic error, they had hidden themselves, and they were separated from God because they were now sinful and recognized their inadequacy.  God’s response is swift, He lays out the consequences of their sinful act to them and then kills two animals, animals that God had created and loved, and covers Adam and Eve with skins so they might be able to join in fellowship with God again. God covered Adam and Eve’s inadequacies and fears.  In these verses, not only was this the first sin committed by mankind, but it was also the first sacrificial act made expressly for the benefit of mankind. Remember, God still loved them too. This first sacrifice, therefore, was intended to bring Adam and Eve back into fellowship with God, something they could not do alone. It works the same way for us today.

God’s history is filled with love for His creation. He has always tried to keep it simple for us. The text of the Ten Commandments appears twice in the Hebrew Bible: in Exodus 20:2–17 and Deuteronomy 5:6–17. Later, Moses would add to these laws in our Bible. The Mosaic Law was given specifically to the nation of Israel (Exodus 19; Leviticus 26:46; Romans 9:4). It was made up of three parts: the Ten Commandments, the ordinances, and the worship system, which included the priesthood, the Tabernacle, the offerings, and the festivals (Exodus 20—40; Leviticus 1—7; 23). The purpose of the Mosaic Law was to accomplish the following:

  • Reveal the holy character of the eternal God to the nation of Israel (Leviticus 19:2; 20:7–8).
  • Set apart the nation of Israel as distinct from all the other nations (Exodus 19:5).
  • Reveal the sinfulness of man (Galatians 3:19). Although the Law was good and holy (Romans 7:12), it did not provide salvation for the nation of Israel. “Therefore no one will be declared righteous in God’s sight by the works of the law; rather, through the law we become conscious of our sin.” (Romans 3:20; Acts 13:38–39).
  • Provide forgiveness through the sacrifice/offerings (Leviticus 1—7) for the people who had faith in the Lord in the nation of Israel.
  • Provide a way of worship for the community of faith through the yearly feasts (Leviticus 23).
  • Provide God’s direction for the physical and spiritual health of the nation (Exodus 21—23; Deuteronomy 6:4–19; Psalm 119:97–104).
  • Lastly, to reveals to humanity that no one can keep the Law but everyone falls short of God’s standard of holiness. 

Jewish history would struggle with the idea of acceptable sacrifices to the one and only God, Jehovah. There would always be a struggle to supply sacrifices that were pleasing to God, and had nothing to do with His divine need. When Israel would seek to submit to God’s will, however,  that alone seemed to become a source of God’s pleasure. God sought a repentant people, but thousands of years of history showed this didn’t work too well and brought us to the realization we must rely on God’s mercy and grace. When Christ came, He fulfilled the Law and with His death paid the penalty for our breaking it (Galatians 3:24; Romans 10:4). By faith in Him, the believer has the very righteousness of Christ imputed to Him. Beware, however, that Jesus did not cancel our need for repentance. Unless we grasp His offer of forgiveness and place our faith in the hands of Christ, there is no atonement.

The final test for any sacrificial act was summarized by the Apostle Paul in 2 Corinthians 9:7, “Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” When joy is present, Paul means we achieved the goal of sacrificial stewardship (4 T’s Time, Talent, Treasure, Testimony), and we have moved back into fellowship with our God.

Contemplations

  • Where have you seen, in your lifetime, things that would have been classified as “sinful” become part of mainstream behavior?
    • Ideas to explore: Both within people, governments, and and our church organizations.
  • Where have you seen mankind’s rules on sin seem to be baseless?
    • Ideas to explore: Friday fish requirements, death without being baptized, denominational differences and demands.
  • What conclusions can you draw about humanity’s ability to fully define what is sinful and what is not sinful?
    • Ideas to explore: Where do we learn what God considers sinful? Is is possible to know all that is wrong to do? Why should we try to know what is wrong in God’s eyes? Didn’t Jesus remove our sins?
  • Why is it not possible for mankind to atone for their own sins?
    • Ideas to explore: We are imperfect, we find it easier to see sin in others than in ourselves, and the consequences are sometimes not clear at first. Are accountable relationships a necessary part of life?
  • Why is it important to understand and believe that Jesus was God, He came and lived without sin.
    • Ideas to explore: Is there a better sacrifice than to live as a human when you are really God and fully understand our temptations in human life? What must we do to be part of the atonement of Christ? If we cannot achieve perfection before God, how do we live lives pleasing to God?
  • Would you relinquish your freedom if there were no consequences, or if all choices were made for you?
    • Ideas to explore: The deception of the utopian world, such as socialism, or communism. The impact of freedom on creativity and discovery. Whether any human political system could be fair.
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    NIV New International Version Translations

Thanks to the Shepherds of the World

Before our holiday season ends, we need to go back a bit and look at some verses that are not typically read at Christmas to fully understand the significance of the birth of Christ. In Exodus, 29:22, “Take from this ram the fat, the fat tail, the fat on the internal organs, the long lobe of the liver, both kidneys with the fat on them, and the right thigh.”1NIV New International Version TranslationsIt is somewhat shocking to our society today but there was a special type of sheep used for Levitical sacrifices in the Old Testament. The species type was a broad-tailed sheep (ovis laticaudata2https://evangelicalfocus.com/magazine/4246/The-fat-of-rams) and is still found in the Holy Land today. The ram was used for ordination and other special ceremonies while the lambs might be used as Passover meals.

We next move to another book from Micah, one of our minor prophets. In Micah 5:2, he prophesies the following: “But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times.” Here we find the ancient name of Bethlehem in Judah (Genesis 35:16 Genesis 35:19; 48:7). In Ruth 1:2 it is called “Bethlehem-Judah,” but the inhabitants are called “Ephrathites;” in Micah 5:2, “Bethlehem-Ephratah;” in Matthew 2:6, “Bethlehem in the land of Judah.” In Psalms 132:6 it is mentioned as the place where David spent his youth. The significance of this location helps us identify the probable Temple that the sheep were being raised for, the Temple at Migdal Eder. This temple was located about a mile from Bethlehem itself. The shepherds in the Christmas story would have raised and tended these sheep in the hills near Bethlehem and, as history has it, play an important part of our Christmas story.

Because of the value of these specific sheep, the shepherds duties would have included protecting them from theft and injury. Only the unblemished sheep would be considered suitable for sacrificial purposes. Their flocks could be used for producing dairy and wool, but they were of such value that they would not be considered part of anyone’s daily menu. Tradition has it that because those shepherds were raising Levitical sheep for the nearby temple, their responsibility of providing the “lambs without blemish” would have had special care from their birth. The selected lambs would have been wrapped in ribbons of cloth at birth to protect them from injury. The process was called swaddling. It was also customary during those times to wrap newborn infants in the same way and hence, the term “swaddling clothes” referred to the wrappings or protection for newborns.

While we do not know the date of Christ’s birth, it is believed to have coincided with a time when the lambs were also being born. Our shepherds, birthing the sacrificial lambs, would have been most receptive and understanding to the significance of their angelic visitor’s message: Luke 2:10-12 “But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” The shepherds would have also known of Micah’s prophecy, they would have known about the purpose of the Messiah, the Messianic Hope coming from the city of David, they would have understood the significance of the swaddling clothes and why the “Lamb of God” would be lying in a manger. While the shepherds were responding to prophecy, we know more today: 1 John 2:2 “He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world.”

The angel never told the shepherds where to look. In fact, their first reaction was sheer terror. However, the shepherds made a key decision, they could not pass up the opportunity to go find the Lamb of God. It is the same decision that we all make in the world today, to search for God. Remember, it was a short walk, probably less than a mile and they knew where all the stables and birthing caves were located. There they found a child wrapped in swaddling clothes. Their actions afterwards are worth noting. The shepherds not only praised God for both hearing the good news and finding the child, but they also shared the good news with others (Luke 2:17-20 “When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.”).

Our Scriptures are not just a compilation of historic random events but are a carefully executed plan by a God who cares for humanity! From David, the shepherd boy who became king, through the prophetic hope of a savior born in David’s city, by a miraculous incarnation of God Himself into humanity as a child, we are blessed with a Christmas story that was foretold at the time of Creation itself. Christmas brings us the Light of the World so that we can see our very Creator in action. Amen for the shepherds, they got it right.

Contemplations

  • What knowledge or experiences did the shepherds have that gave them the courage to believe what they were told and search for the newborn  Messiah?
    • Ideas to explore: Where they lived, their job and responsibility, their understanding of prophecy, peer reinforcement (multiple witnesses), actually finding the baby wrapped in swaddling clothes (evidence).
  • Life itself can be filled with frightening moments. What prepares us to respond in a faith-filled way to fear so that we overcome the fear and accomplish God’s purpose?
    • Ideas to explore: Use the list above created for the shepherds but think about where you live, your own job and responsibilities you have or had, how well you understand the Bible, what your family and friends mean to you for support, how adventurous you are in setting out to discover truths. What has God been preparing you for?
  • Sacrifice was a normal part of the culture during those times – What do you think has desensitized people today to the idea of sacrifice?
    • Ideas to explore: The transfer of the idea of sacrifice to a wealth-based view of life, our own affluence, a lack of understanding of the concept of sacrifice, movement away from an agrarian society to a distributed and manufacturing society, advertising, a low value placed on human life.
  • The shepherds shared their experience with others. Why is it important for us to do the same, especially when we believe we have encountered Christ? 
    • Ideas to explore: What exactly did the shepherds share, who did they tell, is the shepherd’s story more believable because they were eye witnesses. What story do you have to tell?
  • What do you think God’s purpose was  for including shepherds in the Christmas Story in the first place?
    • Ideas to explore: Did God know they would be eager to share with others, God wanted the world to view His Son as a shepherd, God was setting the stage for Christ as a sacrificial lamb.

Shadows

Shadows is Lostpine’s latest section of Bible Study materials. While the Section called Studies was dedicated to a prescribed study outline and Snapshots, for the most part, followed the Common Lectionary schedule, Shadows will dip into those areas of the Bible that we typically pass over. It will explore our curiosity as to why we should even read or know these minor facts about our Bible.  The Word, God’s Word, is rich in its ability to guide and counsel humanity. Shadows are those places where somethings are hard to see but great treasures await. Let’s walk in God’s Shadows to see what He has to say to us! Check us weekly, each Friday,  for our latest walk through the shadows.

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Click “here” to view  all of the Shadow Studies.

Elijah

Elijah’s time as a prophet came about 100 years after King David’s reign. He was our first prophet. King David had set a high standard for faithfulness and integrity as he served God. Now a king named Ahab ruled Israel. The date was around 870 BC. You can find a complete study on King Ahab at Who was Ahab.

(1 Kings 16:33)1NIV New International Version Translations – “Ahab also made an Asherah pole and did more to arouse the anger of the Lord, the God of Israel, than did all the kings of Israel before him.”

It was not just that Ahab was bad, but his evil behavior filtered into the population. Most of the people had yielded to Satan through their worship of the Canaanite gods Baal and Ashtoreth. King Ahab failed at his principal role as a leader, to guide his nation closer to God. Instead, he guided his people away from God, to the false gods of the day. Ahab broke all the rules and is known to history as the worst king to ever rule. God had tried to send warnings earlier, waiting patiently for His people to separate themselves from the pagan influences surrounding them. All God wanted was for His people to return to true worship (1 Kings 14:6-16). Now God was going to bring severe judgment on the nation. Elijah is first mentioned in Scripture when he declares to King Ahab that a severe drought would begin immediately. “Now Elijah the Tishbite, from Tishbe in Gilead, said to Ahab, ‘As the Lord, the God of Israel, lives, whom I serve, there will be neither dew nor rain in the next few years except at my word” (1 Kings 17:1).

Withholding rain for 3½ years was the first punishment God administered through Elijah. This brought severe famine throughout the kingdom. The purpose of this punishment was to bring the nation to repentance for its idolatry. Although unpleasant at the time, Elijah understood the potentially good effects of such punishment if Israel would just repent of its sins. The question, however, would be whether the king and the people of Israel could ever understand the purpose behind the economic disaster that was upon them. Satan had prophets too! The prophets of Baal were humiliated since they couldn’t invoke their pagan god to end the drought and bring the needed rain. They were angry.

King Ahab and his officials blamed Elijah stating that he was the cause of the suffering in Israel. This is often the case, those at fault blame others for the distress they have caused. The king’s response was to relentlessly hunt for Elijah far into foreign lands (1 Kings 18:10) seeking nothing more than revenge. In both Hebrew and Greek, the words “vengeance,” “revenge,” and “avenge” have as their root meaning the idea of punishment. “It is mine to avenge; I will repay. In due time their foot will slip; their day of disaster is near and their doom rushes upon them” (Deuteronomy 32:35). Unlike humans, God never takes vengeance for impure motives. God’s vengeance is to punish those who have offended and rejected Him.

Elijah the Tishbite, of Gilead, was an ordinary human being just like us. He had his hopes and dreams, weaknesses, and shortcomings. What separated him from others was that he was also a man of deep faith in God. Elijah’s style was to be a bold, direct-to-the-point prophet of God. This style made him many enemies, but his enemies never could stop him. God was on his side!

(James 5:17-18) – “Elijah was a human being, even as we are. He prayed earnestly that it would not rain, and it did not rain on the land for three and a half years. Again he prayed, and the heavens gave rain, and the earth produced its crops.”

Like many of the prophets to come, Elijah did not seek to be one of God’s messengers. Instead, God chose him. Once called, however, Elijah didn’t hesitate to take on his mission despite the risks to his life. After confronting King Ahab, God directed Elijah into hiding (1 Kings 17:7-15; 1 Kings 18:1). God even fed him during his hiding by the Brook Cherith, a small stream west of Jericho. God eventually told Elijah, “Go at once to Zarephath in the region of Sidon and stay there. I have directed a widow there to supply you with food.” (1 Kings 17:9). Elijah was surprised by this since Sidon was a Baal-worshipping area, and because Elijah was hated by another woman from Sidon, Queen Jezebel. God was quite aware that a remnant, 7,000 persons in Israel, did not worship Baal. Elijah’s mission was to help the widow by multiplying what food she had and resurrecting her son (1 Kings 17:10-24). She had been a faithful servant of God. After his time in Sidon, the prophet was directed by God to appear before King Ahab again.

(1 Kings 18:17-19) – “When he saw Elijah, he said to him, ‘Is that you, you troubler of Israel?’ ‘I have not made trouble for Israel,’ Elijah replied. ‘But you and your father’s family have. You have abandoned the Lord’s commands and have followed the Baals. Now summon the people from all over Israel to meet me on Mount Carmel. And bring the four hundred and fifty prophets of Baal and the four hundred prophets of Asherah, who eat at Jezebel’s table.’”

This would become one of history’s most exciting showdowns, Elijah, and God against the prophets of Baal. There would be a contest with the 450 prophets of Baal and the 400 prophets of Asherah on Mount Carmel. Elijah invited these false prophets and all of Israel to witness a demonstration showing that Baal had no power at all against the God of Israel (1 Kings 18:19-40).

Elijah’s greatest public miracle involved a contest to show God’s power. Elijah told a large crowd, “I am the only one of the Lord’s prophets left, but Baal has four hundred and fifty prophets.” (1 Kings 18:22). Elijah went before the people and said, “How long will you waver between two opinions? If the Lord is God, follow him; but if Baal is God, follow him” (1 Kings 18:21). God would give convincing proof that day that He was Israel’s only true God. An animal sacrifice was placed on an altar. Baal would go first and demonstrate their power by consuming the sacrifice. By the end of the day, nothing had happened. Then Elijah called on Israel’s God to send fire to swallow up the sacrifice prepared for Him. God responded to Elijah’s prayer. In a moment, thousands witnessed the fire from heaven consume the carcass, all the water in the trench surrounding the altar, and all the wet wood, burning up even the stones! Elijah then ordered that the false prophets be executed (1 Kings 18:36-40). Elijah prayed for rain thus ending the drought (1 Kings 18:42-45).

So, what happened next? The poor leadership ruling over the people responded as they always do. Elijah was hated even more and immediately came under a death threat by Jezebel, the wife of King Ahab. As Israel’s queen, she was the one who brought the worship of her god Baal into the nation, influencing King Ahab to worship Baal and to set up idols in Israel (1 Kings 16:31; 1 Kings 21:25-26). Her name would forevermore become synonymous with the definition of an impudent, shameless, or morally unrestrained woman. Jezebel and the false prophets of Baal spared no effort to capture him. Yes, Elijah the prophet was discouraged. But God sent him back again to face King Ahab and deliver one last sobering message. Ahab and Jezebel would both die a humiliating death because they sin against God and refuse to repent (1 Kings 21:20-24).

Despite Elijah’s efforts, the world still has its idol worshipers. We can see the shrines of paganism everywhere around us. They are not carved statues but are found in the pursuit of riches, fame, power worldly pleasure, and live in the hearts of those who despise God’s Truth. God would use Elijah to train his successor, Elisha (1 Kings 19:19-20). And then, in a moment, took Elijah away with a chariot of fire (2 Kings 2:8-11).

Contemplations

  • Do you think if God sent a prophet like Elijah today, it would make any difference to the people?
    • Ideas to Explore: Does common sense help understand a message from God? Why do people ignore good, sound advice? Whom would you believe today?
  • Why do people give up on the one and only God?
    • Ideas to Explore: Don’t get what they want. Don’t hear what they want. What they want conflicts with God’s plans.
  • Who is the greatest influence on the morality of our nation today?
    • Ideas to Explore: Churches, family, government, Internet, Media, Cable News, social media?
  • If you had to change one thing in our nation today, what would it be?
    • Ideas to Explore: Whom would people listen to? Who is held in high respect these days? Whom do people follow today?
  • What would you change to lead our nation back to God?
    • Ideas to Explore: Family structure, educational systems, churches, etc.
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    NIV New International Version Translations

Elisha

God had directed Elijah to do some succession planning and find his replacement. That replacement would be Elisha. All we know about Elisha is that he was the son of Shaphat. Elisha, whose name means “God is salvation,” was mentored by Elijah to be the second prophet in Israel (1 Kings 19:16, 19–21; 2 Kings 5:8). Elisha’s role was to follow Elijah (1 Kings 19:19) as his protégé until Elijah was taken into heaven. Elisha’s ministry lasted about 60 years. His life spanned the reigns of kings Jehoram, Jehu, Jehoahaz, and Joash. A study of the life of Elisha reveals the prophet’s humility (2 Kings 2:9; 3:11), his love for the people of Israel (2 Kings 8:11—12), and his faithfulness. Elisha was immediately obedient to God’s call to him. He learned from and followed Elijah eagerly and faithfully. Elisha knew that God trusted Him. Elisha did not wait for God, instead, Elisha sought after God. This should be the template for all people today as we establish our faith walk through this world!

Before Elisha settled in Samaria, he spent some time on Mount Carmel. He would, from 892 BC until 832 BC, be an advisor to the third through the eighth kings of Judah, holding the office of “prophet in Israel“. Elisha is called a patriot because of his help to both soldiers and kings. When he was first called to be a prophet, Elisha was plowing a field with a pair of oxen. Elijah put his cloak around Elisha as a sign that Elijah’s responsibilities would fall on Elisha. Elisha then left his oxen and ran after the prophet. Elisha asked only to say goodbye to his family and then would return to Elijah. Elisha went back, slaughtered his oxen, burnt his equipment, gave the meat to the people, and followed Elijah as his servant. Elisha completely removed himself from his former life and left himself no option on returning to his oxen (1 Kings 19:21). Elisha’s ministry would be driven by the power of God. He would perform more miracles than any other individual in the Bible except for Jesus.

Elisha loved Elijah like a father. He refused to leave Elijah before Elijah was taken into heaven. When Elijah asked what he could do for his protégé before he left, Elisha requested a double portion of Elijah’s spirit. God would grant Elisha’s request. During Elisha’s ministry, organized Baal worship was eradicated (2 Kings 10:28). In his ministry Elisha traveled widely and served as an adviser to kings, a companion of the common people, and a friend of both Israelites and foreigners.

There are many well-known accounts of Elisha’s service as Israel’s prophet. He healed the waters of Jericho (2 Kings 2:19–21). Yet, he was jeered by youths who were taunting him because he was bald. This type of discrimination still goes on today. We learn that picking on one of God’s prophets is not a good idea. Elisha called a curse on them resulting in their death by mauling bears (2 Kings 2:23–25). Elisha multiplied a widow’s oil supply (2 Kings 4:1–7) so she could pay off a debt. He prophesied a son for a wealthy Shunammite family who hosted him and later resurrected that same son (2 Kings 4:8–37). Elisha also removed poison from a pot of stew (2 Kings 4:38–41) and multiplied twenty barley loaves to feed one hundred men (2 Kings 4:42–44). Elisha cured Naaman of leprosy (2 Kings 5) and made a borrowed ax head that was lost in the Jordan river float to the surface (2 Kings 6:1–7). The miracles Elisha performed are, for the most part, acts of helpfulness and blessing. Some resemble some of the miracles of Christ, such as the multiplying of food (Matthew 16:9–10) and the healing of lepers (Luke 17:11–19).

Elisha is not as well-known as Elijah. Perhaps it is because his character wasn’t as brash or outspoken as Elijah’s. But Elisha had a very important ministry advising four different kings. He was a light for God when Israel was in a very dark period. His miracles proved to the people and their leaders that Yahweh was their one true God. His ministry came at a time when the people were in danger of completely abandoning God and following Baal. Elisha’s miracles serve as an eternal reminder of God’s power. Elisha’s life portrays God’s love for both the common people (the family with the new son, and the widow with debts) and the rich (Naaman). His name is mentioned fifty-nine times in the Bible. He is one of the most well-known prophets. His life provides us with many important and practical lessons on living.

During his term as Israel’s head prophet, he ran a school of prophets (2 Kings 4:38-44, 2 Kings 6:1-7). The idea of passing on one’s beliefs and knowledge about God is not some new concept. We need to keep doing just that even today. Concerning Elisha’s death, 2 Kings 13:20 simply says, “Elisha died and was buried.” But the passage goes on to tell us that once when marauding criminals went to dispose of a body, they threw that body into Elisha’s tomb. When a dead man’s body touched Elisha’s bones, the man came to life and stood up on his feet” (2 Kings 13:21). It seems that God chose to demonstrate His power through the prophet even after his death.

What were Elisha’s special traits? Elisha was bald (2 Kings 2:23). In society at that time, that was not necessarily a benefit. He stood out and was mocked by his peers. Despite his looks, Elisha was different, not divisive but inclusive in his style. He had a home, and Elisha was not just a wandering prophet (2 Kings 6:32). He took the role of adviser to the kings, working within the political system in place at that time. Although there were times he incurred the anger of Israel’s leaders, they still sought out his counsel (2 Kings 3:1-19, 8:1-6). King Joash was sorry to see him die (2 Kings 13:14). To Elisha’s credit, his ministry reached out to all classes of people, poor and rich, noble and peasants, Jews, and foreigners. He treated all people as God treats people, equally. Maybe Elisha’s most outstanding trait was that he never took credit for any of his miracles. He recognized that they did not come from his power or ability. He was still a human. Elisha knew he could accomplish nothing and heal no one unless it was by the power of God (2 Kings 4:27). It is important to recognize that when we cannot accomplish something, it is not necessarily caused by sin. All people, including prophets, could only accomplish God’s work through God’s power.

What made Elisha a great prophet of God were his strengths. He was faithful to God. Elisha worked within the system in the society, never compromising, but able to accomplish positive changes. He had courage (2 Kings 6:8-23). Elisha loved the disadvantaged (2 Kings 4:1-7), ministering to anyone and everyone who came to him for help. Elisha dedicated his life and ministry to God (1 Kings 19:19-21). And finally, Elisha was loyal (1 Kings 19:21, 2:2,4,6), loyal to his mentor, Elijah, and, above all, loyal to God.

Contemplations

  • What, in your experience, does a divisive style, and an aggressive and hostile personality, accomplish?
    • Ideas to Explore: Rate the last 5 presidents, what style were they, and did they do anything that moved people closer to God or farther away? Should we ever appoint or elect a narcissist?
  • How does our world handle people that are different?
    • Ideas to Explore: What is the response within our schools to bullying? How do children pick up the bad habit to pick on those who are different from themselves?
  • To accomplish great things, why does only looking forward to the future work better than retaining a foot in the past?
    • Ideas to Explore: Elisha burned his bridges when he became a prophet. Why is “burn your bridges” a good strategy for success?
  • Elijah did a great job warning the people and their leaders. However, he never persuaded them to change. Why do you think Elisha was so much more successful in getting the people to abandon the false gods and put their faith back into the one real God?
    • Ideas to Explore: Working within the system (political) of the times rather than fighting against it seemed to accomplish more benefits. The people gave up worshipping Baal. Why? Was his focus on the leadership a more effective strategy?

Joel

Joel prophesied as one of the early prophets. There were quite a few prophets, possibly as many as fifty. However, not all of them had their prophecies documented. Dating Joel is difficult, but many scholars date Joel about the time of the reign of Joash, king of Judah. That would mean that he was contemporary with and probably knew Elijah and Elisha. The Book of Joel is small, with only three chapters. Although considered a minor prophet, Joel had a lot to say. From his writing, we can see that Joel was acquainted with the land, farming, and geography. It is also clear that he lived and prophesied in Judah since he mentions Judah and Jerusalem. He was thoroughly familiar with the Temple and its ministry. The name Joel means, “The Lord is God.” Nothing is known about his personal life. Twelve other men in the Old Testament have this name, none of whom can be identified as the author of this book. His father, Pethuel, is mentioned nowhere else in the Bible.

What we do know about Joel was that he was called by God to minister to Judah. The Southern Kingdom had been in a state of disarray and decline for years, both economically and spiritually. Rival nations and city-states such as Tyre, Sidon, and Philistia had made frequent incursions into Israel. A recent locust plague and drought devastated Judah’s economy (Joel 1:4). Judah was weak from the inside out. It was a time of national mourning, where Joel writes, “The vine is dried up and the fig tree is withered; the pomegranate, the palm and the apple tree— all the trees of the field—are dried up. Surely the people’s joy is withered away” (Joel 1:12). The message of Joel is a doctrine which could be repeated and applied to any age. We could easily apply it to our nation today! Joel’s message was about depending on material prosperity. His message was consistent with the warnings of Moses.

(Deuteronomy 6:10-12)1NIV New International Version Translations – “When the Lord your God brings you into the land he swore to your fathers, to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, to give you—a land with large, flourishing cities you did not build, houses filled with all kinds of good things you did not provide, wells you did not dig, and vineyards and olive groves you did not plant—then when you eat and are satisfied, be careful that you do not forget the Lord, who brought you out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery.”

The nation of Judah was also spending a lot of time numbing themselves from life. There was a lot of drinking going on. Israel had originally hit the jackpot by getting a land of “milk and honey” handed to them by God. It was someone else’s land that already had homes, wells, and farms. All they had to do is enjoy the fruits and be thankful. But they found too many distractions that took them away from the one and only God who had given them everything. One of Joel’s first warnings was, “Wake up, you drunkards, and weep! Wail, all you drinkers of wine; wail because of the new wine, for it has been snatched from your lips“ (Joel 1:5).

Israel’s past was prosperous. Their vine vats had been overflowing, their fig trees and the pomegranates and apples, all the fruit trees had always been loaded down with fruit. The land they occupied had been fertile. As a result, the nation had gotten used to barns filled to the brim and olive oil flowing like a river (Joel 1:10, 17). The herds of cattle had always multiplied, and flocks were always plentiful (Joel 1:18). Now, misfortune befell the nation. The good times were gone! Joel would bring a painful warning that the benefits they had enjoyed could soon be taken from them.

Unlike the other prophets, Joel did not condemn Israel for idolatry or worshiping Baal. Yes, that was still wrong. Joel chooses to only mention one sin, the sin of drunkenness. His prophecy begins with a description of a literal plague of locusts. Joel uses that plague of locusts to compare with the future judgments which will come upon this earth. The first chapter is considered a literary gem. It is a remarkable passage of Scripture; unlike anything you will find elsewhere (take time to read Joel 1). The sin was that the excesses of the nation were at the expense of their relationship with God. It is probably worth a moment to document just some of what excessive alcohol and/or drugs can do to a nation. Either mouse over or touch the Bible verses here. You will see the NIV translations of those verses.

Physically: (Job 12:25; Psalms 107:27; Proverbs 23:29; Isaiah 19:14; 28:8; 29:9; Jeremiah 25:16)
Mentally: (Genesis 43:34; Isaiah 28:7; Hosea 4:11)
Prosperity and happiness: (Proverbs 23:29-32; Proverbs 23:21; compare Proverbs 21:17 and Ecclesiastes 19:1; Proverbs 20:1)
Morality: (Proverbs 31:5; Isaiah 5:23; Proverbs 20:1; 23:29; Ecclesiastes 31:26,29; Ephesians 5:18).

The prophet Joel also connects excessive drinking with gambling, promiscuity, and sexual immorality.

(Joel 3:3) – “They cast lots for my people and traded boys for prostitutes; they sold girls for wine to drink.”

Joel’s concerns had to do with a growing national acceptance of immorality to find “Worldly Joy.” Instead, Joel wanted the nation of Israel to be focused on God’s desire that the people know Him (Joel 3:17) and that God fully intended to make His dwelling place about His people through the Holy Spirit (Joel 2:28-32). The prophet’s ministry had a theme, “the day of the LORD.” He makes specific reference to it five times: Joel 1:15; 2:1–2; 2:10–11; 2:30–31; and 3:14–16. Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, and Daniel also refer to the Day of the Lord, sometimes calling it “that day.” Zechariah will particularly emphasize “that day,” the Day of the Lord.” Joel is the first prophet to introduce the Day of the Lord in prophecy.

(Joel 2:1-11) – “Blow the trumpet in Zion; sound the alarm on my holy hill. Let all who live in the land tremble, for the day of the Lord is coming. It is close at hand—a day of darkness and gloom, a day of clouds and blackness. Like dawn spreading across the mountains a large and mighty army comes, such as never was in ancient times nor ever will be in ages to come. Before them fire devours, behind them a flame blazes. Before them the land is like the garden of Eden, behind them, a desert waste—nothing escapes them. They have the appearance of horses; they gallop along like cavalry. With a noise like that of chariots, they leap over the mountaintops, like a crackling fire consuming stubble, like a mighty army drawn up for battle. At the sight of them, nations are in anguish; every face turns pale. They charge like warriors; they scale walls like soldiers. They all march in line, not swerving from their course. 8 They do not jostle each other; each marches straight ahead. They plunge through defenses without breaking ranks. They rush upon the city; they run along the wall. They climb into the houses; like thieves they enter through the windows. Before them the earth shakes, the heavens tremble, the sun and moon are darkened, and the stars no longer shine. The Lord thunders at the head of his army; his forces are beyond number, and mighty is the army that obeys his command. The day of the Lord is great; it is dreadful. Who can endure it?”

Joel is describing the second coming of Christ. The return of Jesus is to begin during a time of great trouble. It ends with the Jesus putting down all unrighteousness and establishing His eternal Kingdom here on earth. Joel is describing a time when many will turn to God. It will be a time unlike the Church has ever witnessed. Joel is calling on his nation to forsake their sins, calling them to repentance. He promises an outpouring of the Spirit “afterward.”

(Joel 2:28–32) – “And afterward, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your old men will dream dreams, your young men will see visions. Even on my servants, both men and women, I will pour out my Spirit in those days. I will show wonders in the heavens and on the earth, blood and fire and billows of smoke. The sun will be turned to darkness and the moon to blood before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the Lord. And everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved; for on Mount Zion and in Jerusalem there will be deliverance, as the Lord has said, even among the survivors whom the Lord calls.”

It is the prophet Joel who confirms to us that eternal salvation comes to those who call upon Jesus’s name!

Contemplations

  • We are a prosperous nation, filled with many blessings. Why do you think people are giving up on God?
    • Ideas to Explore: The churches are not following God’s Truth? Have the people forgotten their God?
  • We are a nation that consumes a lot of alcohol. We are a nation on its way to legalizing many types of recreational drugs. Where do you think this will lead the nation’s people?
    • Ideas to Explore: Is it rational to decriminalize drugs? How do we reconcile the number of deaths from drugs within our youth? Why do you think people need drugs?
  • The ideas are radically different between capitalism and socialism. Which one do you think can create more Godly people?
    • Ideas to Explore: Do government handouts create a deeper faith in God? Do you think that it even matters?
  • What is the secret to getting our nation to repent?
    • Ideas to Explore: Do you think they need to repent? Of what sins would you accuse our nation first?
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    NIV New International Version Translations

Who was Jonah?

The Old Testament contains several prophetic books, including a group of 12 named after the so-called ”minor prophets.” One of the stranger books and prophets is Jonah. Jonah or Jonas, son of Amittai, is also found in the Quran. He lived in about 8 BC and came from Gath-hepher of the northern kingdom of Israel. Jonah is the central figure of the Book of Jonah, which details his reluctance in delivering God’s judgement on the city of Nineveh. There is no question that Jonah was a historical person. He is mentioned in 2 Kings 14:25, which suggests he was one of the more nationalistic and militaristic prophets.

The story starts with God giving Jonah a mission, to pass a message to the people of Nineveh that they need to repent and change their attitudes toward each other from hatred to love. Jonah does not like the mission and runs away by boarding a ship  to Tarshish, a city in southern Spain that lay geographically in the opposite direction from Nineveh. His getaway is interrupted by a storm. The sailors on the ship eventually figure out that Jonah is the cause of the storm because God is displeased with him. They throw Jonah overboard.  While in the ocean, Jonah is swallowed by a great fish (most probably describing a whale), spends three days and three nights in its belly, and afterward gets regurgitated onto land. Now convinced that God is serious, Jonah heads to Nineveh to complete his mission.

How you respond to stories like the Book of Jonah can impact your personal beliefs on the entire Bible. It is not good enough to pick and choose the parts of the Bible you want to believe. While the story of survival in the belly of a whale is problematic, our Bible is filled with similar stories. Miracles, raising of the dead, walking on water, feeding 5,000, or Jesus’ own resurrection can all be difficult to understand. How then are we to take this story of Jonah and glean from it the Godly lessons we need to learn? There are arguments that support the theory of a human being able to survive inside a whale. We will not discuss those here. The most common interpretation held today is that the story of the prophet being swallowed and then disgorged by a “great fish” is fiction, intended to teach, a religious point. Think of the story like a super-sized parable. Many of Jesus’ parables were similar in structure, fictional stories of real moral issues. Many other stories were very real. What then are its lessons for us in the Book of Jonah?

(2 Timothy 3:16)1NIV New International Version Translations – “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness,”

Jonah’s desire to escape from the mission God gave him describes our own mission given to us by Jesus Himself. We are clearly called to share the Gospel’s message with a sinful, Godless world. If we assume that formal religion’s appeal is shrinking in our society (according to studies), we can see a simile, people’s desire to escape from the job of uniting humanity around Christ. Like Jonah, we all have been given an inescapable mission. It is the same mission today as it was in ancient Babylon when Abraham united the Jewish people as a nation. The foundation of God’s mission to His people is based on “love your neighbor as yourself.” We are called to become a positive example of what a connected community looks like, “a light unto the nations.”

The wrong way to look at Jonah is to try to prove it true or false. For example, the word for “belly” in Hebrew is imprecise and does not only mean “stomach.” Jonah may have been in the oral cavity of a large-mouthed whale. A whale, being a mammal, is a warm-blooded air breather that resurfaces for air, so would have provided Jonah with oxygen, while its body heat would have prevented hypothermia. However, the story of being swallowed by a “great fish” is too far-fetched to be believable. A great fish/large whale would not have been found in the eastern Mediterranean. Some even look to Jesus’ reference to Jonah in Matthew 12:39-41 to say that the Book of Jonah was historical. Yet Jesus used many parables meant to teach godly lessons that were fictional stories.

As a parable, what does the Book of Jonah teach?

  • The story of Jonah explains that we need to place the benefit of others ahead of our own. 
  • When people accept Jesus as their Savior, they also accept His mission: Teach the world to love their friends and neighbors as themselves.
  • Jonah did not concern himself with the well-being of the sailors. Furthermore, he was so reluctant to share God’s mercy with the “evil” Ninevites that he ran from God’s mission. He was not the “good guy” in this story but a normal, flawed human being who only did what he was told as a matter of duty, after being given a second chance.
  • We finally find that in the Book of Jonah, God’s grace is available equally and freely to all.

In Jonah’s story, everyone gets a second chance.  You might even call it a story about second chances. Jonah was a legalistic, judgmental Jew, and the lost pagans in Nineveh needed to be reminded of their sins. The happy ending everyone wants can be found here too. Both the sailors and Ninevites not only recognized God but also turned to Him as their Lord.

(Jonah 3:6-9) – ”When Jonah’s warning reached the king of Nineveh, he rose from his throne, took off his royal robes, covered himself with sackcloth and sat down in the dust. This is the proclamation he issued in Nineveh: ‘By the decree of the king and his nobles: Do not let people or animals, herds or flocks, taste anything; do not let them eat or drink. But let people and animals be covered with sackcloth. Let everyone call urgently on God. Let them give up their evil ways and their violence. Who knows? God may yet relent and with compassion turn from his fierce anger so that we will not perish.’”

Jonah, however, had not repented. His heart still needed turning. The prophet did the right things, just as the sailors and Ninevites did, but he did not love the Lord by the end of his book. Jonah got a second chance at recognizing his own depth of depravity, his deep need for mercy. However, he might have squandered it after all. We are missing the rest of his story.

(Jonah 4:1-3) – “But to Jonah this seemed very wrong, and he became angry. He prayed to the Lord, “Isn’t this what I said, Lord, when I was still at home? That is what I tried to forestall by fleeing to Tarshish. I knew that you are a gracious and compassionate God, slow to anger and abounding in love, a God who relents from sending calamity. Now, Lord, take away my life, for it is better for me to die than to live.”

Jonah struggled with God’s kindness towards depraved people he believed were unworthy of mercy. He acted like the Pharisees, shocked that Jesus would hang out with sinners. Maybe Jonah thought the evil Ninevites would return to their wickedness and make a fool of the Lord after he left them? Jonah was courageous, loving, and obedient to the Lord. But God rebuked Jonah: “And should I not have concern for the great city of Nineveh” (Jonah 4:11). Jonah wanted to see God enact justice against non-Jews. But he was blind to the reality that the Ninevites were also God’s children. God had created works, more valuable than the shade plant pitied by Jonah.

(Jonah 4:10) – ” But the Lord said, “You have been concerned about this plant, though you did not tend it or make it grow. It sprang up overnight and died overnight.”

God’s power was already famous. He didn’t need Jonah to spread the good news. Jonah acknowledged as much: “you are a gracious and compassionate God” (Jonah 4:2). Jonah, meanwhile, refused to treat the pagans as human beings created in the image of God. Jonah had enjoyed direct guidance from God, something many of us crave, and yet he rejected it. In summary, the Book of Jonah has very little to do with fish or whales. The story is not about impossible miracles. Jonah’s story is about sharing God with a world filled with depravity, denial, even doubt and about not being judgmental against those who do not share our faith.

Contemplations

  • Who do you put into a group that you would call less deserving of God’s grace?
    • Ideas to Explore: Who are the people you avoid? What groups do you dislike? Are there people whose faith or even lack of faith you dislike?
  • What would be the most effective strategies to reaching people like those in Nineveh?
    • Ideas to Explore: What exactly would a mission trip to Nineveh look like? What are the effective ways to share the Gospel with someone you do not like or trust?
  • Yes, we are called to believe that our God can do the impossible, even keep someone in the belly of a whale alive for three days – But what do you do to sort out the “Story” into history, parable or fiction?
    • Ideas to Explore: Do you first search for science to explain away the miracle? (e.g., Tides divided the Red Sea for Moses in the Book of Exodus) When you cannot rationalize an event based on your own knowledge of the world, where do you go to find peace with your answers? 
  • What does the term “God-Breathed” mean to you when describing the Bible?
    • Ideas to Explore: Can you see the history, the fable, the parable, the Law and command, the advice in God’s Words? All are present. How do you think we should respond to each category?
  • What did you get out of the Book of Jonah?
    • Ideas to Explore: Is the story so strange that it has no meaning? Can you sort out a lesson from God? How would you teach this story to children?
  • Faith is the cornerstone of belief – How does your faith handle the immaculate conception of Mary or the Incarnation of God becoming human?
    • Ideas to Explore: The world uses many tricks to destroy faith. What ones have you seen? How do you keep from becoming a doubtful person?
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    NIV New International Version Translations

Amos the Prophet for Adults

It is amazing that of the over1,000 pages of Lostpine’s website, the most popular Biblical story is the children’s story about the prophet Amos. When you consider that those who wrote the Bible lived at different times, some separated by hundreds of years. In many cases, they were strangers to one another. Some Bible writers were businessmen or traders; others were shepherds, fishermen, soldiers, physicians, preachers, kings, and human beings from all walks of life. They served under different governments and lived within contrasting cultures and systems of philosophy. However, the wonder of it all, the 66 books of the Bible with their 1,189 chapters making up of 31,173 verses (NIV) present a perfect harmony in the message they convey. Yet of the twenty years that this website has been published, a children’s story about a minor prophet is number one! That being the case, maybe there is an adult lesson in Amos too.

After Solomon’s death (930 BC), an open insurrection led to the breaking away of the ten northern tribes and the division of the country into a northern kingdom, Israel, and a southern kingdom, Judah, on the territory of the tribes of Judah and Benjamin. The Kingdom of Israel, with its capital Samaria, would last more than 200 years under 19 kings, while the Kingdom of Judah, ruled from Jerusalem, would be ruled for 350 years by an equal number of kings from the lineage of David. The expansion of the Assyrian and Babylonian empires would bring war, first to Israel and later, to Judah. Surprisingly, the cause of ancient Israel splitting into two lies at the feet of King Solomon. That is a study for another day. The problem was compounded by the Northern Kingdom’s appointment of terrible kings. Solomon had laid the foundation of sin for the Israelites and the people adopted it well. They enjoyed their sinful lives, and then their enemies came in and finished the job. The Assyrians would eventually enslave them.

Amos was one of the Twelve Minor Prophets, an older contemporary of Hosea and Isaiah, and was active 760–755 BC during the rule of kings Jeroboam II and Uzziah. Amos was a sheep herder and a sycamore fig farmer turned prophet. Not a “professional prophet,” his ministry and prophecies concluded around 762, two years before a great earthquake (Zechariah 14:5). Amos wrote at a time of relative peace and prosperity but also a long period of neglect of God’s laws. He spoke against an increased disparity between the very wealthy and the poor. His message was simple: Amos proclaimed that an ethical God required ethical relations between people to assure God’s divine favor. When one ponders the state of political unrest and division in our country, it is a comparative message for our present time.

Prophets were sent by God because He loved His people and with each prophet, a warning would come forth to direct God’s people to change their behavior. Amos’s lament (Amos 5) and warning were because ten of the tribes (excluding Judah and Benjamin) which had lasted for about 210 years, would be destroyed by Assyria in 722 BC. Amos is instructed by God with this well-known narrative (Amos7:7-8) that includes a reference to a plumb line. However, let us read all the verses, those before and after the ones we typically give to our children:

(Amos 7:1-9)1NIV New International Version Translations – This is what the Sovereign Lord showed me: He was preparing swarms of locusts after the king’s share had been harvested and just as the late crops were coming up. When they had stripped the land clean, I cried out, “Sovereign Lord, forgive! How can Jacob survive? He is so small!” So the Lord relented. “This will not happen,” the Lord said. This is what the Sovereign Lord showed me: The Sovereign Lord was calling for judgment by fire; it dried up the great deep and devoured the land. Then I cried out, “Sovereign Lord, I beg you, stop! How can Jacob survive? He is so small!” So the Lord relented. “This will not happen either,” the Sovereign Lord said. This is what he showed me: The Lord was standing by a wall that had been built true to plumb, with a plumb line in his hand. And the Lord asked me, “What do you see, Amos?” “A plumb line,” I replied. Then the Lord said, “Look, I am setting a plumb line among my people Israel; I will spare them no longer. “The high places of Isaac will be destroyed, and the sanctuaries of Israel will be ruined; with my sword, I will rise against the house of Jeroboam.”

The problem pointed out here is that those who claim God, live lives that were inconsistent with such a claim. These so-called believers were accused by God of singing idle songs, drinking wine from bowls, and anointing themselves with the finest oils (living the good life). In and of themselves these things (singing, anointing, even drinking) were not the problem. The problem was that these practices were carried on even while “their ship is sinking (their country was in trouble),” and the people simply did not care. The questions that Amos was asking were:

  • How can you feast when some have nothing to eat?
  • How can you anoint yourselves when the least among us have no honor?
  • How can you celebrate as the worlds of so many others are falling apart around them?

God is ANGRY, MAD! Amos is laying it out as clearly as he can. Such behavior, God declares through Amos, is senseless, and this is exactly what the people are doing: “But you have turned justice into poison and the fruit of righteousness into bitterness” (6:12b). God then goes on in chapter 7 where Amos is making an appeal to God, praying on behalf of the people. God is about to send locusts and fire. They were spared because of Amos’s prayers. However, God lays it out quite clearly. He is setting a standard, a plumb line, and will measure His people by this standard. God is not going to let them off the hook. History shows, that people never did measure up.

Why is a plumb line such a perfect metaphor? It is a simple tool, requiring no training to use. It needs no manuals, everyone can be an expert with a plumb line, and even in our high-tech age, no one has ever electrified or computerized, a plumb line. There is no advanced model, no Pro version, and it never needs updating. A plumb line always gives us a perfect vertical to measure against. Now the Israelites failed to grasp this simple concept. The Assyrians would take care of them some 40 years later. But today, we are not quite in that same dilemma. Today, we have Jesus Christ, our perfect plumb line, to measure our own lives and character against. Today we have no excuses.

Before you relax and say things are great, you are saved and hallelujah Jesus, let us reflect on reality. In Jurgen Moltmann’s (famed theologian) book, “The Crucified God,” Moltmann brings forward a wakeup call to everyone that professes Christ as their savior: “Jesus was folly to the wise, a scandal to the devout and a disturber of the peace in the eyes of the mighty. That is why he was crucified. If anyone identifies with him, this world is ‘crucified’ to him, as Paul said. He becomes alienated from the wisdom, religion, and power politics of his society. The crucified Christ became the brother of the despised, abandoned, and oppressed.” So, are you ready to be despised, abandoned, and oppressed? Following Jesus, measuring up against the “plumb line” is not an easy thing to do. Our world is against you! However, God has made it painfully clear, that the people of this world, especially those who call themselves people of God, must be different. They must set standards of compassion and love that this world has never seen. God’s expectations are for His people to be discerning and seek His Truth. The hungry must be fed, the killing of the born and unborn must stop, and divisiveness must make way for progress against the issues in our world that matter most to God.

The story of Amos the shepherd-turned-prophet is much more than a children’s story. It is a contemporary view of our society. It calls out to all of us to re-examine our priorities and to learn to live lives pleasing to God. We have no excuses either. Christ already came, He set the standard for how to live, Christ is with us today to help, and He even gave us simplified instructions:

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

It will not be an easy thing to do, but we all must start, one prayer at a time, one charitable act, and one forgiving moment at a time. While the short children’s story about Amos is number one, my prayer for this study would be that this adult story about Amos becomes number two.

Contemplations:

  • Do you think that the “ship is sinking,” that our country is in deep trouble and the people don’t care?
    • Ideas to Explore: If we are divided, what does each group represent and believe? Do some people not care about God? What type of national sins do you see? What are the similarities between our country and Northern Israel that caused God to be upset and send Amos? Do we have prophets among us today?
  • Why is it hard to walk with Christ?
    • Ideas to Explore: Are we persecuted? Exactly what is hard? Is being a Christian beneficial in your circle of friends? Are you fearful? What causes you to hesitate on your walk?
  • Why do you think so many people hate Christians?
    • Ideas to Explore: They envy the peace Christ brings to one’s life. They are afraid that you will hold them accountable if you see some immoral act. The truth of Jesus convicts one’s soul – Do you think people like their sinful life and just don’t want to change? Are we too smug about being saved and judgmental or sanctimonious? Do Christians talk too much about their salvation? Is the promise of salvation an excuse to be a lazy Christian?
  • Why if we are hated and persecuted so much should we be open with our testimonies about Christ?
    • Ideas to Explore: What does it mean to be a disciple of Christ? Does it help to learn how to give a testimony? Could God’s plan even work if no one shared their faith? Who wins if all Christians are quiet?
  • How do you get to know Christ well enough to use Him as a plumb line, to guide your own life?
    • Ideas to Explore: What are all the ways one can learn about Christ and how He lived? What impact do prayer and the Holy Spirit have on our faith walk?
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Hosea

Hosea lived just before the destruction of Israel in 722 BC. His prophecies were directed to the northern kingdom. During Hosea’s ministry, Israel experienced a period of economic prosperity and growth. As you study the prophets, notice the oscillation between prosperity and recession. This is one period where the northern Kingdom was oblivious to their sins. On the inside of the nation, they had become corrupt, morally decrepit, and adulterous. On the other hand, the people thought they were doing well. The Book of Hosea can be divided into two parts:

  1. Hosea 1:1-3:5: a description of an adulterous wife and a faithful husband, symbolic of the unfaithfulness of Israel to God through idolatry, and
  2. Hosea 4:1-14:9: the condemnation of Israel, especially Samaria, for the worship of idols and her eventual restoration.

The major theme Hosea was called to address was that the Israelites had broken their covenant with God. Not only had they given themselves over to idolatry, Hosea writes that they had also “planted wickedness,” “reaped evil,” “eaten the fruit of deception,” and “depended on your own strength” (Hosea 10:13). They had turned to other gods for answers (Hosea 4:12) and other nations for assistance instead of God (Hosea 7:11). Because of this, God chose to intervene, sending Hosea to them with a warning. It would be Hosea’s role to call the people to repentance and extend an invitation to return to their relationship with God. He was to remind them that God was willing and eager to restore their return to a covenant relationship. We will look at Hosea in the context of our society today.

To begin this study is one of the stranger requests that we will hear God make of a prophet. Hosea was commanded to take a wife who would become a prostitute. This was to serve as an example of God’s relationship with Israel. Hosea was to manifest God’s patience and love through his marriage. According to Deuteronomy 22:20, a harlot was supposed to be stoned, not married. This story is found in the opening chapters of the Book of Hosea (Hosea 1:2-3:5). Not only had the people walked away from God, but they had also forgotten Him entirely. They had forgotten God’s faithfulness. They had forgotten the many miracles and how good God had been to them throughout their relationship (Hosea 1:8). They had forgotten His law and instructions. And once separated from God and the knowledge of their love of God, they quickly turned to their own ways, other gods, and other nations (Hosea 8:4) for help. His marriage was to prepare him for teaching the people that only God could satisfy or save them. This is an amazing way to prove a point! The prophet would have to walk the same walk and talk the same talk that God must do with His people. They were undeserving harlots, but God would forgive them and love them still!

(Hosea 7:16)1NIV New International Version Translations – “They do not turn to the Most High; they are like a faulty bow. Their leaders will fall by the sword because of their insolent words. For this they will be ridiculed in the land of Egypt.”

Hosea warned them for almost forty years about their state of spiritual decline leading them to destruction. The people could no longer see the reality of their own demise (Hosea 4:1). Sinful living had them trapped, forgetting their God and His love for them. Hosea writes, “Their deeds do not permit them to return to their God. A spirit of prostitution is in their heart; they do not acknowledge the Lord.” (Hosea 5:4). Where is our nation today? Are we walking away from God? Have we forgotten Him? What about God’s Laws, God’s Truth? Where does our nation stand today? Israel had been enslaved by Egypt. God freed them! You would have thought history mattered. Soon, the city of Samaria would be besieged by the Assyrians. Many of the people would be taken into captivity or forcibly deported away from their places of origin. Must that happen to our own nation’s future for us to turn to God?

While God was using prophets like Hosea to minister to the people of Israel in the north, the people of the Southern Kingdom were not immune to idolatry and betrayal either. Judah, the southern kingdom, was known to go through periods of revival. The Northern Kingdom’s spiritual sickness was spreading. It would inevitably infect the nation to its south (Hosea 4:15, Hosea 8:14). The lesson is that sin does not stay hidden. Eventually, sins are exposed (Hosea 2:10). A sin, like a virus, spreads. Things we do in secret hurt those closest to us. Hosea’s marriage was an example of this. Hosea’s adulterous wife hurt more than just herself. It hurt Hosea as well. The same is true for God, who sees and feels the things we do in secret (Hosea 7:2).

Hosea used a personal approach to teach the people about the faithfulness of God. His life would show them God’s character in ways they could understand. He married knowing his spouse, Gomer, would regularly cheat on him. After bearing him three children, she walked away from Hosea to her lovers. Would you stay in such a relationship just to show those around you the true character of God? That was his point. God had proved Himself to be faithful time and time again. Gracious when it was undeserved. God loved them even when they forgot God. Israel (like Gomer) had proven themselves unfaithful, but God (like Hosea) would demonstrate His love for His bride by remaining faithful even when she (Israel) was not. And what is God’s response to those with the hearts of harlots?

(Hosea 11:9) – “I will not carry out my fierce anger, nor will I devastate Ephraim2 The name Ephraim not only designates a person but also the tribe he started and their inheritance in the Promised Land (Joshua 16:5 – 9). It is Biblically used for a city and part of a mountain range in the heart of Israel. Additionally, a forest, a gate, and a symbolic reference to the northern ten tribes of Israel also use the name. again. For I am God, and not a man—the Holy One among you. I will not come against their cities.”

In Hosea 4-14 is Hosea’s message of warning to the nation of Israel. There you will find a parallel between the three sections describing Hosea’s marriage and the major sections in the ending part of his writings. Hosea alternates between the listing of sins, the pronouncement of judgment, the call to repentance, and the promise of restoration. Since the beginning of time, God’s ungrateful and undeserving creation has been accepting God’s love, grace, and mercy. Yet God’s creation has been unable to refrain from its wickedness. We call Hosea’s writings prophetic because of verses such as Hosea 2:23.

(Hosea 2:23) – “I will plant her for myself in the land; I will show my love to the one I called ‘Not my loved one.’ I will say to those called ‘Not my people,’ ‘You are my people’; and they will say, ‘You are my God.’”

We learn that God is to include the Gentiles (non-Jews) as His children as written in Romans 9:25 and 1 Peter 2:10. Gentiles were not originally “God’s people,” but through His mercy and grace, He has provided Jesus Christ, and by faith in Him we are now His people (Romans 11:11-18). As Hosea ends his book, he shows how God’s love once again restores His children as He forgets their sins when they turn back to Him with repentant hearts. This prophetic message of Hosea foretells the coming of Israel’s Messiah 700 years in the future. Hosea is quoted often in the New Testament.

We should not lose sight of how God is dishonored and angered by the actions of His children. How can a child who is given an abundance of love, mercy, and grace treat a Father with so much disrespect? Yet, that is the history of humanity. Look no further than the mirror in front of us to see a reflection of those that Hosea came to warn!

Contemplations

  • What would you tell people today who are abandoning God?
    • Ideas to Explore: Do you agree that there is a problem? Do you regularly share your testimony regarding your faith in Jesus? If people see you, do they know you love God?
  • Do you know what today’s idolatry looks like?
    • Ideas to Explore: Sports, entertainment industry, power, wealth, lifestyle, education, how about cell phones and sneakers? What is on your list?
  • How tolerant have you become with accepting the sin of our society today?
    • Ideas to Explore: Do you pay attention enough to notice sin around you? What is your attitude toward tolerating sins against God’s Truth? What do others think of your faith when they see your actions toward sin?
  • How would you warn those around you that the sins of society are a serious thing to correct?
    • Ideas to Explore: First is family, what are you telling your family? Next, your closest friends. What about the people you encounter every day?
  • Do you believe that we can lose our nation?
    • Ideas to Explore: History says it could happen because it has happened many times before. How does that make you feel? Emboldened and willing to help. Overwhelmed and ready to give up. God does not define a position in between!
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    NIV New International Version Translations
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    The name Ephraim not only designates a person but also the tribe he started and their inheritance in the Promised Land (Joshua 16:5 – 9). It is Biblically used for a city and part of a mountain range in the heart of Israel. Additionally, a forest, a gate, and a symbolic reference to the northern ten tribes of Israel also use the name.
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