Category: Snapshots (Page 17 of 45)

Jeremiah 32:6-15¹NIV New International Version Translations
6 Jeremiah said, “The word of the Lord came to me: 7 Hanamel son of Shallum your uncle is going to come to you and say, ‘Buy my field at Anathoth, because as nearest relative it is your right and duty to buy it.’ 8 “Then, just as the Lord had said, my cousin Hanamel came to me in the courtyard of the guard and said, ‘Buy my field at Anathoth in the territory of Benjamin. Since it is your right to redeem it and possess it, buy it for yourself.’ “I knew that this was the word of the Lord; 9 so I bought the field at Anathoth from my cousin Hanamel and weighed out for him seventeen shekels of silver. 10 I signed and sealed the deed, had it witnessed, and weighed out the silver on the scales. 11 I took the deed of purchase—the sealed copy containing the terms and conditions, as well as the unsealed copy— 12 and I gave this deed to Baruch son of Neriah, the son of Mahseiah, in the presence of my cousin Hanamel and of the witnesses who had signed the deed and of all the Jews sitting in the courtyard of the guard. 13 “In their presence I gave Baruch these instructions: 14 ‘This is what the Lord Almighty, the God of Israel, says: Take these documents, both the sealed and unsealed copies of the deed of purchase, and put them in a clay jar so they will last a long time. 15 For this is what the Lord Almighty, the God of Israel, says: Houses, fields and vineyards will again be bought in this land.’

Background²http://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/matthew-henry-complete/jeremiah/32.html

In this chapter we have:

1. Jeremiah imprisoned for foretelling the destruction of Jerusalem and the captivity of king Zedekiah (v. 1-5).
2. We have him buying land, by divine appointment, as an assurance that in due time a happy end should be put to the present troubles (v. 6-15).
3. We have his prayer, which he offered up to God upon that occasion (v. 16-25).
4. We have a message which God thereupon entrusted him to deliver to the people.
   1. He must foretell the utter destruction of Judah and Jerusalem for their sins (v. 26-35). But,
   2. At the same time, he must assure them that, though the destruction was total, it should not be final, but that at length their posterity should recover the peaceable possession of their own land (v. 36-44).

The predictions of this chapter, both threats and promises, are much the same with what we have already seen before, again and again, but here are some circumstances that are very particular and remarkable.

Biblical Truths and Theology³http://www.easyenglish.info/bible-commentary/jeremiah1-10-lbw.htm

Verses 6-8 The law said that, in certain circumstances, a close relative could buy land. That meant that the family would continue to own the land (Leviticus 25:25). Hanamel decided to sell his field. Perhaps he wanted money rather than land that the enemy would take. So he persuaded Jeremiah that he should buy the land. Hanamel used the words ‘your right’ as Jeremiah was his nearest relative. Hanamel may have tried to sell it to other relatives. But probably they were not willing to buy it in those dangerous times. The LORD had warned Jeremiah that Hanamel would arrive with that demand.

Verses 9-12 The field belonged to Jeremiah after the usual legal custom at that time. People did not use coins as money. Instead, people weighed silver or gold to pay for things. Abraham weighed out 400 silver pieces for land in which to bury his family (Genesis 23:16). Jeremiah weighed out 17 pieces of silver to pay for his cousin’s field. With witnesses, he signed the legal record of his purchase. He gave the two copies to his secretary Baruch. They closed one copy and they left open the other copy.

Verses 13-15 Jeremiah told Baruch to put the two copies into a clay jar. It was a usual custom to put records in jars. That meant that the records would last a long time. After the exile, the records would prove who was the owner. Jeremiah believed that the LORD would renew the nation one day. Then normal business would begin again. People would be able to buy houses, fields and land on which to grow grapes. Jeremiah’s purchase of the field showed that he believed the LORD.

Items for Discussion

• Did you ever invest in something that looked like a high risk? Please share your experiences and why you felt comfortable with taking that risk.
• The roots of ownership of land go deep and run way back in history. Do you think that our society today is missing something when such a large percentage rent? What is it and are there any risks to society?
• Why do you think that Hanamel wanted to sell his land?
• What were the risks to Jeremiah if he bought it?
• How did Jeremiah reconcile those risks?
• What was the purpose of Jeremiah’s request to archive proof of the transaction?
• Is there a comparable purpose in today’s society and, if so, is it as important today as it was in Jeremiah’s time? Why or why not?

1 Timothy 6:17-19
17 Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. 18 Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. 19 In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life.

Background⁴http://www.easyenglish.info/bible-commentary/1tim-lbw.htm

The book of Acts ends with the apostle Paul in prison in Rome. That was about AD 60 and he was there for two years. It seems that after that he was free for a time. The Apostle Paul is the author of this letter.

After he came out of prison, he asked Timothy to stay in Ephesus (1 Timothy 1:3). He then went to Macedonia. While he was there, he wrote this first letter to Timothy. We do not know whether Paul visited Ephesus at this time.

Timothy was the son of a Gentile father and a Jewish mother. His mother, Eunice, and grandmother, Lois, both believed the gospel of Christ (2 Timothy 1:5). They and Timothy probably became Christians when Paul first went to the town called Lystra (Acts 14). All the Christians in Lystra and in the church in the town called Iconium spoke well about Timothy.

When Paul came the second time to Lystra, he asked Timothy to join his team (Acts 16:1-3). Timothy became a close friend and helper of Paul. He went with Paul as he travelled to many places. Paul spoke about him as his own son in the faith.

Now he was the leader of the church in Ephesus. Paul writes this letter to him to encourage him in the task of leading that church. He gives Timothy a lot of advice both for the Christians in the church and for himself. There were some problems there, with some people who were teaching wrong things. Paul told Timothy to sort out that problem (1 Timothy 1:3). He must stop these people from doing it. Paul tells Timothy how to select the elders and deacons. He writes about the roles of men and women. He speaks about the care of widows. He tells Timothy how slaves ought to serve. He speaks to the rich persons. And he warns them about the dangers that come with wealth. He tells Timothy how he should take care of himself. And he tells him how to be a good leader.

Biblical Truths and Theology

Verse 17 There is a danger for those who are rich. The danger is to think that they are better than other people. They may have more wealth and a higher rank in this world. But that does not make them better persons. Such rich persons should not be proud because of what they possess.

They must not depend on what they own. All that they have could vanish in a very short time. They cannot be certain that they will always be rich. When they die, these riches will have no value for them. They will go to someone else. All the money in the world cannot buy life after death. It is foolish to trust in riches for this life and for the future life.

Instead, they should trust in God. He is rich because he owns all things. And all things belong to him. God is great and he is generous to us. He gives to us all that we need for this life. The blessings of God are true riches. He blesses us so that we can enjoy his life. That means the life that He gives.

Verse 18 Rich persons are responsible to God for how they use their wealth. The more they have the greater their duty to use it to do what is good. So, Timothy should tell those who are rich that they should use their resources. Rather than to be rich in money, they should do many good works. This is how to have real riches.

Rich persons have more than enough for their own needs. There is no benefit to them in owning an excess of wealth. They should be generous. And they should share what they have. They should use their wealth for the benefit of those who are in need of their help.

Verse 19 They should share what they have. In that way, they will bless those whom they help. But, as they give help to other people, they will benefit as well. By doing good works the rich Christians will reduce their wealth on earth. But they will be building up riches for the future life. These riches will then be like a firm foundation for them. The Lord Jesus said that we should not store up riches on earth. But rather we should store up riches in heaven (Matthew 6:19-20). The purpose of this is so that they can grasp hold of the life to come. That life is the true life that will have no end.

Items for Discussion

• How does Paul define who is rich?
• Is the danger today due to wealth, the same as it was in Paul’s day? Why or why not?
• How does wealth become a danger?
• How do you know if you are using your wealth, as Paul defines it, for the benefit of God’s kingdom?
• So if you are asked by God to share your resources, how do you pick and choose whom to share them with?

Discussion Challenge

• How does the church help its members come to reconcile their needs, the needs of the world and the needs of the church?

• 1
  NIV New International Version Translations
• 2
  http://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/matthew-henry-complete/jeremiah/32.html
• 3
  http://www.easyenglish.info/bible-commentary/jeremiah1-10-lbw.htm
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  http://www.easyenglish.info/bible-commentary/1tim-lbw.htm

Psalm 133¹(NIV) New International Version Translations
1 How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity! 2 It is like precious oil poured on the head, running down on the beard, running down on Aaron’s beard, down on the collar of his robe. 3 It is as if the dew of Hermon were falling on Mount Zion. For there the Lord bestows his blessing, even life forevermore.

Background²http://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/matthew-henry-complete/psalms/133.html

This psalm is a brief piece of writing that places high praise on unity and brotherly love. David sees the miseries of discord among men, which he sees as needless. Oh how wonderful our world would be if we could persuade people to live together in peace. There is some conjecture that David penned this psalm on the occasion of the union between the tribes when they all met unanimously to make him king. It is a psalm of general use to all societies, smaller and larger, civil and sacred. In this psalm is:

1. The doctrine laid down of the happiness of brotherly love (v. 1).
2. The illustration of that doctrine, in two simple examples (v. 2, v. 3).
3. The proof of it, in a good reason given for it (v. 3); and

then we are left to make the application, which we ought to do in singing it, provoking ourselves and one another to holy love. The contents of this psalm in our Bibles, are short, but very proper; it is “the benefit of the communion of saints.’’

Biblical Truths and Theology³http://www.easyenglish.info/psalms/psalm133-taw.htm

Verse 1 – Brothers “stay together” means that brothers “do not fight”.

Verse 2 – A united country is like sweet oil. This is not motor oil, but oil from a fruit called the olive.

Aaron was Moses’ brother. He was the first chief (most important) priest of the Jews. They do something special to a chief priest at the start of his work. They “anoint” him. This means that they put olive oil on his head. It runs down his face onto his beard. Then it goes on to his clothes. A better translation of “clothes” is “collar”. The oil makes everything smell nice. It is like a picture of brothers who are not fighting. It is good, or “smells nice”.

Verse 3: This verse gives another picture. Dew is water that comes on to the ground at night. It comes down on mountains like Hermon and Zion. Hermon is in the north of the country where the Jews lived. The dew makes plants grow when there is no rain. Zion is the mountain in Jerusalem where the Jews built God’s house. Zion is a good place to be. Zion is where God “blesses” people (or does good things for them). That is why it is a good place. For Christians, Zion is like a picture of the Church.

Items for Discussion

• Do you think our world will ever be united?
• Do you think Christians will ever be united?
• What are some examples of unity that you have personally been witness to?
• Why is it so hard to be united with others?
• What are the attributes that are visible in a person when they are open to unity?
• What are the attributes that foster division?

Luke 17:5-6
5 The apostles said to the Lord, “Increase our faith!” 6 He replied, “If you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mulberry tree, ‘Be uprooted and planted in the sea,’ and it will obey you.

Background

Let’s first look at the attributes of a mustard seed that would pertain to faith.

Mustard seeds can be traced to different areas of Europe and Asia with the white variety originating in the eastern Mediterranean regions, the brown from the foothills of the Himalayan Mountains, and the black from the Middle East. Mustard seeds are mentioned in ancient Sanskrit writings dating back about 5,000 years ago.

The seeds are usually about 1 to 2 millimeters (0.039 to 0.079 in) in diameter. However mustard bushes reach an average mature height of between 6 and 20 feet with a 20-foot spread, although exceptional plants can reach 30 feet tall under ideal conditions.

While mustard seeds were used for their culinary properties in ancient Greece, it seems that it was the ancient Romans who invented a paste from the ground seeds, which was probably the ancestor of our modern day mustard condiment. The physicians of both civilizations, including the father of medicine Hippocrates, used mustard seed medicinally.

The isothiocyanates⁴The chemical group –N=C=S, formed by substituting the oxygen in the isocyanate group with a sulfur. Many natural isothiocyanates from plants are produced by enzymatic conversion of metabolites called glucosinolates. in mustard seeds have been repeatedly studied for their anti-cancer effects. In animal studies—and particularly in studies involving the gastrointestinal tract and colorectal cancer—intake of isothiocyanates has been shown to inhibit growth of existing cancer cells and to be protective against the formation of such cells.

Mustard seeds emerged from our food ranking system as an excellent source of selenium, a nutrient which that has been shown to help reduce the severity of asthma, decrease some of the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, and help prevent cancer. They also qualified as a good source of magnesium. Like selenium, magnesium has been shown to help reduce the severity of asthma, to lower high blood pressure, to restore normal sleep patterns in women having difficulty with the symptoms of menopause, to reduce the frequency of migraine attacks, and to prevent heart attack in patients suffering from atherosclerosis or diabetic heart disease.

Mustard seeds also qualified as a very good source of omega-3 fatty acids and manganese as well as a good source of phosphorus, copper, and vitamin B1.

The story of mustard seeds is recounted referring to faith in Luke 17:6-10 and Matthew 17:20. With reference to the Kingdom of Heaven it is mentioned in Luke 13:21 and Matthew 13:19. This parable referred to having a “mustard seed” type faith to someone that needs to have just enough faith to believe that anything is possible. As Jesus referred to a young man that was a “lunatic” (demon possessed) and had many sores on his body, he let the disciple’s know the young boy couldn’t be delivered from demons because they had no faith. The boy’s father came to the disciples for healing of his son and they couldn’t heal him for lack of faith. Jesus let them to know that all one needs is just a little faith and nothing is impossible. This Scripture is to remind those that are followers of Christ that it’s through their faith they can heal, cast out and pray for others.

Biblical Truths and Theology⁵http://www.easyenglish.info/bible-commentary/matthew-lbw.htm

Verse 5 – Disciples should not lead other people away from God. They should also be ready to forgive. This is not easy. It means that the disciples need God’s help. They realized this. So, they asked God to help them. They needed stronger faith in God’s power.

Verse 6 – A mustard seed is very tiny. A tree has strong roots. Jesus was using picture language. It seems impossible to do some things. But Jesus showed that even very little faith in God makes things possible.

Items for Discussion

• What are all of the attributes of mustard seeds that you can relate to the type of faith we need to have?
  • Another way to look at this is why did Jesus pick the mustard seed and not a poppy seed, for example, which is smaller?
• What can that kind of faith accomplish?
• Why is a seed such as good example of faith?
• Where did you get your “Mustard Seed?”
• How does our world attack the concept of faith in the Lord?
• What are the ways you found that heal and build your faith?

Discussion Challenge

• How do you make your church a place to go to get your “Mustard Seeds?”

• 1
  (NIV) New International Version Translations
• 2
  http://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/matthew-henry-complete/psalms/133.html
• 3
  http://www.easyenglish.info/psalms/psalm133-taw.htm
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  The chemical group –N=C=S, formed by substituting the oxygen in the isocyanate group with a sulfur. Many natural isothiocyanates from plants are produced by enzymatic conversion of metabolites called glucosinolates.
• 5
  http://www.easyenglish.info/bible-commentary/matthew-lbw.htm

Psalm 118¹(NIV) New International Version Translations 
1 Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever. 2 Let Israel say: “His love endures forever.” 3 Let the house of Aaron say: “His love endures forever.” 4 Let those who fear the Lord say: “His love endures forever.” 5 When hard pressed, I cried to the Lord; he brought me into a spacious place. 6 The Lord is with me; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me? 7 The Lord is with me; he is my helper. I look in triumph on my enemies. 8 It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in humans. 9 It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in princes. 10 All the nations surrounded me, but in the name of the Lord I cut them down. 11 They surrounded me on every side, but in the name of the Lord I cut them down. 12 They swarmed around me like bees, but they were consumed as quickly as burning thorns; in the name of the Lord I cut them down. 13 I was pushed back and about to fall, but the Lord helped me. 14 The Lord is my strength and my defense; he has become my salvation. 15 Shouts of joy and victory resound in the tents of the righteous: “The Lord’s right hand has done mighty things! 16 The Lord’s right hand is lifted high; the Lord’s right hand has done mighty things!” 17 I will not die but live, and will proclaim what the Lord has done. 18 The Lord has chastened me severely, but he has not given me over to death. 19 Open for me the gates of the righteous; I will enter and give thanks to the Lord. 20 This is the gate of the Lord through which the righteous may enter. 21 I will give you thanks, for you answered me; you have become my salvation. 22 The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone; 23 the Lord has done this, and it is marvelous in our eyes. 24 The Lord has done it this very day; let us rejoice today and be glad. 25 Lord, save us! Lord, grant us success! 26 Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord. From the house of the Lord we bless you. 27 The Lord is God, and he has made his light shine on us. With boughs in hand, join in the festal procession up to the horns of the altar. 28 You are my God, and I will praise you; you are my God, and I will exalt you. 29 Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.

Background²http://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/matthew-henry-complete/psalms/118.html

It is probable that David wrote this psalm when he had, after many trials, survived those against him, and gained a full possession of the kingdom to which he had been anointed. David then invites and encourages his friends to join with him, not only in a cheerful acknowledgment of God’s goodness and a cheerful dependence upon that goodness for the future, but in a believing expectation of the promised Messiah. To David, it is a certainty of Christ’s coming and he bears witness to this in the latter part of the psalm. Christ himself applies it to himself (Matt. 21:420.

Some think David’s purpose for writing the psalm was to honor the bringing of the ark to the city of David, and was afterwards sung at the feast of tabernacles. In this psalm:

• David calls upon all around him to give to God the glory of his goodness (v. 1-4).
• He encourages himself and others to trust in God, from the experience he had had of God’s power and pity in the great and kind things he had done for him (v. 5-18).
• He gives thanks for his advancement to the throne, as this was the foretelling of the exaltation of Christ (v. 19-23).
• The people, the priests, and David himself, are triumph in the prospect of Christ’s kingdom (v. 24-29).

In singing this psalm we must glorify God for his goodness, his goodness to us, and especially his goodness to us in Jesus Christ.

Biblical Truths and Theology³http://www.easyenglish.info/psalms/psalm118-taw.htm

Verses 1 – 4 tell everybody to thank the LORD, because he is good. All the people that live in the land of Israel, in verse 3, “the house of Aaron” means the priests and Levites of Israel who worked in the temple, and in the towns and villages of Israel. The words “kind love” come in all 4 verses. ”

Verses 5 – 7 tell us what God did to send help to Israel. Remember, “me” and “I” in these verses is not one person. It is the whole country of Israel. Maybe David spoke these words for them. David says the answer is the same for everyone: cry (or pray, maybe out loud) to the LORD. Tell him that you want to be free. He will make you free.

In verses 8 – 9, “trust” means “believe that someone will give you help”. It also means a lot more than this. It means that if someone promises to do something, then they will do it. You can trust them (or rely on them) to do it. The psalm teaches us that we can trust the LORD more than people. We can even trust him more than our leaders!

In verses 9 – 13, we read that the enemy was all round Israel. To David, his enemies seemed like a swarm of bees because there were so many of them. But he destroyed them all! It was like a thorn-bush burning. The bush becomes dry when it dies, and burns quickly and David did it “in the name of the LORD”.

In verse 14, “saved” means that the LORD made them safe from their enemies, either Egypt or Babylon

Verses 14 – 18 tell us that this made the Jews very happy. They sang psalms, or songs, (verse 14). They shouted how great God was in their tents. God did all this with his “right hand”, (verses 15-16). The right hand of God is how the Bible describes God doing things on earth.

The people as they entered the temple sang verses 19 The people coming in said, “Open the gates”, (verse 19). The priests answer from inside the temple gates, “Righteous people can go in”, (verse 20).

Verses 21 – 24 again tell us what God has done. He saved his people, (verse 21). Like the stone that the builders (men who were building) threw away, Israel was now important, (verse 22). The LORD did something wonderful, or “very great”, (verse 23). He did it on “this day”, (verse 24).

Verses 25 – 29 finish the psalm. Verses 25 and 26 give us another example of the people and the priests talking to each other. The people say, “LORD, save us and make us do very well”. The priests bless the people from inside the temple.

Items for Discussion

• Why were David’s psalms an effective way to teach the people of Israel about God?
• How does leadership affect a nation’s beliefs and responses to God?
• What comfort do you get from knowing that God’s love will endure forever?
• How do we reflect on God’s providence in our own nation’s history? Give some examples
• Do we have examples today of the joy our nation displays for God? If so, please give them – if not, why not?

Luke 2:52
52 And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man.

Background⁴http://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/matthew-henry-complete/luke/2.html

In chapter 2 of the Gospel of Luke, we have an account of the birth and infancy of our Lord Jesus: having had notice of his conception, and of the birth and infancy of his forerunner, in the former chapter. Here is where we find:

• The place and other circumstances of his birth, which proved him to be the true Messiah, and such a one as we needed, but not such a one as the Jews expected (v. 1-7).
• The notifying of his birth to the shepherds in that neighborhood by an angel, the song of praise which the angels sung upon that occasion, and the spreading of the report of it by the shepherds (v. 8-20).
• The circumcision of Christ, and the naming of him (v. 21).
• The presenting of him in the temple (v. 22-24).
• The testimonies of Simeon, and Anna the prophetess, concerning him (v. 25-39).
• Christ’s growth and capacity (v. 40-52).
• His observing the Passover at twelve years old, and his disputing with the doctors in the temple (v. 41-51). And this, with what we have met with (Mt. 1, and 2), is all we have concerning our Lord Jesus, till he entered upon his public work in the thirtieth year of his age.

Biblical Truths and Theology

Verses 46-50 are known as the song of Mary. Many Christians call this song the Magnificat. Magnificat is the first word in the Latin language of this song. It is a song of joy and it is a song to praise God. Much of the language in the song comes from the Old Testament. In particular, it is quite similar to the song of Hannah (1 Samuel 2:1-10). In verses 51-55 is also part of the song describing past events. But it also describes things that God continues to do, both now and in the future. What God has done in the past gives us hope for the future.

Items for Discussion

• How does praising God help us with our daily life?
• If we really meditated on how great God’s salvation is, wouldn’t we experience less depression? Is this realistic or not?
• How did Jesus balance His life between God and mankind?
• For what events in your life are you particularly grateful to God?
• How did God prove to be your helper, your strength or your salvation?
• How can a young person raised in a Christian home come to see their desperate need for salvation?
• Discussion Challenge
• How should the church recognize and acknowledge the mercy of God?

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  (NIV) New International Version Translations
• 2
  http://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/matthew-henry-complete/psalms/118.html
• 3
  http://www.easyenglish.info/psalms/psalm118-taw.htm
• 4
  http://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/matthew-henry-complete/luke/2.html

Psalm 148¹(NIV) New International Version Translations
1 Praise the LORD. Praise the LORD from the heavens, praise him in the heights above. 2 Praise him, all his angels, praise him, all his heavenly hosts. 3 Praise him, sun and moon, praise him, all you shining stars. 4 Praise him, you highest heavens and you waters above the skies. 5 Let them praise the name of the LORD, for he commanded and they were created. 6 He set them in place for ever and ever; he gave a decree that will never pass away. 7 Praise the LORD from the earth, you great sea creatures and all ocean depths, 8 lightning and hail, snow and clouds, stormy winds that do his bidding, 9 you mountains and all hills, fruit trees and all cedars, 10 wild animals and all cattle, small creatures and flying birds, 11 kings of the earth and all nations, you princes and all rulers on earth, 12 young men and maidens, old men and children. 13 Let them praise the name of the LORD, for his name alone is exalted; his splendor is above the earth and the heavens. 14 He has raised up for his people a horn, the praise of all his saints, of Israel, the people close to his heart. Praise the LORD.

Background²Luis Alonso Schokel, Trenta salmi: poesia e preghiera, Bologna, 1982, p. 499.  Quoted by Pope John Paul II in his general audience address of July 17, 2002.

Calling them by name, the psalmist arranges everything in order: The sky is above, with two heavenly bodies according to the time of day, together with the stars; the fruit trees are on one side and the cedars on the other; the reptiles are on the ground and the birds are in the sky; the princes are in one place and the people are in another; young men and women form two lines, perhaps holding hands…. God has established them, giving each their place and purpose; man receives them, giving them their names in his language, so that he can present them in a liturgical celebration. Man is the “shepherd” and the “liturgist” of creation.

Biblical Truths and Theology³http://www.easyenglish.info/psalms/psalm148-taw.htm

The psalm has three parts:

1. verses 1 – 6: the psalmist tells everything in the sky to praise the LORD;
2. verses 7 – 10: the psalmist tells everything on the earth to praise the LORD (but not people);
3. verses 11 – 14: the psalmist tells people to praise the LORD.

Verses 1 – 6 “From the heavens” means “everything that is above the earth”. In the Bible, heaven or the heavens means two things. It can mean the sky, where we can see the sun, moon and stars, (verse 3). Also, it can mean the home of God, where his angels also live, (verse 2). The angels are God’s servants in heaven. Jews believed that there were waters above the sky, (verse 4). God created (made) all this by his word of command. A command is when we tell someone what they must do.

Verses 7 – 10 Everything on the earth must also praise the LORD. We do not know how animals, birds, reptiles, snow, clouds, winds, storms, trees, hills and mountains all praise the LORD. But God knows, and accepts their praise. Hail is rain with ice in it. A monster is a very large animal. A reptile is an animal like a snake.

Verses 11 – 14 The psalm ends by telling people to praise the LORD. Everybody is here. The leaders of people and people themselves are here, young and old, male and female. A prince, (verse 12), is the son of a king.

Items for Discussion

• Why is it important to have praise be a part of our relationship with God?
• How is it that something inert like the sun or the moon can praise God?
• While we cannot imagine how animals praise God, we are being told that they do. What would you discern about our God and animals with this understanding?
• Why would praise like the type described in this Psalm be so appropriate for our God?

⁴William Paley, a noted theologian.”In crossing a heath, suppose I pitched my foot against a stone, and were asked how the stone came to be there: I might possibly answer, that, for anything I knew to the contrary, it had lain there for ever; nor would it perhaps be very easy to show the absurdity of this answer. But suppose I had found a watch upon the ground, and it should be inquired how the watch happened to be in that place; I should hardly think of the answer which I had before given, — that, for any thing I knew, the watch might have always been there. Yet why should not this answer serve for the watch as well as for the stone? Why is it not as admissible in the second case, as in the first? For this reason, and for no other, viz. that when we come to inspect the watch, we perceive (what we could not discover in the stone) that its several parts are framed and put together for a purpose, e.g. that they are so formed and adjusted as to produce motion, and that motion so regulated as to point out the hour of the day; …This mechanism being observed (it requires indeed an examination of the instrument, and perhaps some previous knowledge of the subject, to perceive and understand it; but being once, as we have said, observed and understood), the inference we think is inevitable, that the watch must have had a maker: that there must have existed, at some time, and at some place or other, an artificer who formed it for the purpose which we find it actually to answer: who comprehended its construction, and designed its use.” (Paley, 1807)

II Timothy 4:6-8
6 For I am already being poured out like a drink offering, and the time has come for my departure. 7 I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. 8 Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day.

Background

This was the last Epistle written by Paul in the spring of circa 68 AD. In Macedonia, Paul wrote two epistles I Timothy 66 AD and to Titus in Crete in 67 AD. Then he entered the Balkans and wintered at Necropolis where he was seized and sent to Rome for his second imprisonment where he wrote this epistle. Paul knew he was to die and Nero had him beheaded. This epistle is the final words of a man who knows he will die.  Timothy will take the torch from Paul and ‘carry the torch of teaching genuine/real doctrine’ to the next generation!

 Biblical Truths and Theology⁵Wesley’s Notes

The time for my departure – So undoubtedly God had shown him. I am ready to be offered up – Literally, to be poured out, as the wine and oil were on the ancient sacrifices.

The crown of righteousness – Which God has imputed to me and wrought in me. Will render to all – This increases the joy of Paul, and encourages Timothy. Many of these St. Paul himself had gained. That have loved his appearing – Which only a real Christian can do. I say a real Christian, to comply with the mode of the times: else they would not understand, although the word Christian necessarily implies whatsoever is holy, as God is holy. Strictly speaking, to join real or sincere to a word of so complete an import, is grievously to debase its noble signification, and is like adding long to eternity or wide to immensity.

Items for Discussion

• In life, Paul taught that we all need a Barnabas (one who holds us accountable) and Timothy (one who will carry on in the next generation).  Who are the Timothy’s in our church?
• What things do you recall, did Paul do to prepare himself for the end of his life?
• Why is the analogy of a race such a good comparison to that of the Christian Walk?
• Like a runner who trains for the race, can a Christian train for the Walk?
• What is the role of the Church today in this training for the race?

Discussion Challenge

• How can we create more Timothys?  How do we create more Pauls?

• 1
  (NIV) New International Version Translations
• 2
  Luis Alonso Schokel, Trenta salmi: poesia e preghiera, Bologna, 1982, p. 499.  Quoted by Pope John Paul II in his general audience address of July 17, 2002.
• 3
  http://www.easyenglish.info/psalms/psalm148-taw.htm
• 4
  William Paley, a noted theologian.”
• 5
  Wesley’s Notes

Deuteronomy 31:6¹(NIV) New International Version Translations
6 Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.”

Background

For our purposes, we will accept that Deuteronomy was written by Moses. In Deuteronomy 1:5 it says, ‘Moses began to explain God’s law.’ In Deuteronomy 31:9 it says, ‘Moses wrote down this law.’ In Deuteronomy 31:24 it says, ‘Moses wrote in a book all the words of God’s laws.’ 2 Kings 14:6 refers to ‘the Book of the Law of Moses’. Then it refers to Deuteronomy 24:16. Jesus said that Moses wrote the book. (See Matthew 19:7-8 and John 5:46-47.) In Mark 12:19, the Sadducees said that Moses wrote the book. In Acts 3:22, Peter says that Moses wrote the book. Also, Paul says that in Romans 10:5, 19. The devil tempted Jesus when he was in the desert and Jesus used the book of Deuteronomy to answer Satan. Since Deuteronomy includes things about Moses’ death, we can also conclude that Scribes added a few things to Deuteronomy.

Biblical Truth

By Chapter 31 verse 6, Moses had finished his work. He was now 120 years old and he could not continue to lead them. Moses appointed Joshua as the new leader, although God was their actual leader. At this point, God had caused them to defeat Sihon and Og. In the future, God would cause them to defeat other nations under the leadership of Joshua. Moses then tells them, that both Joshua and the people should be strong and have courage. God would be with them. They need not be afraid.

Items for Discussion

• What are the things you are afraid of? Why?
• What are the tips that you have learned in overcoming your fears?
• Are there differences between narcissism and courage? What are they?
• What dangers are there in not understanding those differences?
• What are the things we need to do (as Christians) to obtain the type of courage that Moses calls us to have?
• What risks come with being courageous?

Philippians 1:6
6 being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.

Background²http://www.easyenglish.info/bible-commentary/philippians-lbw.htm

Luke described the city called Philippi as a Roman ‘*colony’ (Acts 16:12). The emperor Augustus allowed retired soldiers to live there after they had supported him in a battle in 31 BC. As a Roman colony, its citizens possessed the same rights and laws as those who lived in Italy. Paul and Silas, with Timothy and Luke, established the church there after they crossed from Asia into Europe (Acts 16:12-40). Paul visited Philippi again on his third journey (Acts 20:1-6). It was a group of Christians of whom Paul was very fond. He called its members his ‘joy and crown’ (4:1). The Christians in Philippi were not rich, but they supported Paul with more than one gift of money. They also gave money for the poor Christians in Jerusalem (2 Corinthians 8:1-5).

Paul wrote his letter to the Church at Philippi because he wanted to:

• thank the Christians at Philippi for the gifts that they had sent him by way of Epaphroditus[re]http://www.gotquestions.org/Epaphroditus-in-the-Bible.html[/mfn].
• inform the Christians at Philippi about his own circumstances. He also wanted to tell them that Epaphroditus had recovered from his dangerous illness. He was returning to Philippi.
• appeal for unity and for the end of quarrels in the church.
• to warn them about false doctrine, especially that of Jewish Christians who insisted on circumcision for Gentiles.
• to urge them to remain loyal to their faith and to stand firm against opponents.

Paul was in prison when he wrote this letter. He was not sure of the result of a trial. Some writers suggest that the prison was in Ephesus or Caesarea. But it is more likely that he was in Rome. He probably wrote this letter at the end of the two years that we read about in Acts 28:30.

Biblical Truth

Paul had brought the gospel to Philippi. But he still realized that it was God’s work. He knew that God would continue His grace to the Christians at Philippi. What God has begun, He will complete. The ‘day of Christ Jesus’ is the day when Jesus comes again.

Items for Discussion

• Do we know similar cities where the residence are all typically sharing common interests like military service?
• What are the attributes of citizenship that military cities tend to reflect? What can we learn from them?
• What goes wrong when there is no unity among a congregation?
• How does false doctrine creep into a church?
• What are the protections against false doctrine?
• Why is the simplicity of a strategy built upon a faith in Christ the only successful long term strategy for a group of Christians?
• Why was Paul so confident?

Discussion Challenge

• How does a congregation build its confidence that God is in charge and will win?

• 1
  (NIV) New International Version Translations
• 2
  http://www.easyenglish.info/bible-commentary/philippians-lbw.htm

Lamentations 4:15¹(NIV) New International Version Translations 
¹⁵ “Go away! You are unclean!” people cry to them. “Away! Away! Don’t touch us!” When they flee and wander about, people among the nations say, “They can stay here no longer.”

Background²http://www.easyenglish.info/bible-commentary/lam-lbw.htm

This book is called Lamentations because it is a collection of sad poems. The five poems are about Jerusalem. God wanted his people to take care of Jerusalem and His Temple. Most importantly, God wanted the Jews to worship Him there. Unfortunately, the people of Jerusalem did not obey God. In the end, God became very angry with them, allowing armies from another country to destroy their city. And God also let those armies take the Jews away and enslave them.

There was one man who loved God as well as his own people. He was saddened to see Jerusalem broken and destroyed. This man wrote this book of five poems about 586 years before Jesus was born. The Jews called this man Jeremiah. Some people think that he also wrote the book called Jeremiah.

In the first two poems the writer himself speaks. Then he makes the city’s people speak as if the city were a woman. In the next two poems, only the writer speaks. In the last poem, he writes as if the city’s people are praying to God. The first poem is about the lonely city. The second poem says that God was like an angry enemy. In the third poem, the writer remembers that God is good. God wants people to love him. Then the writer begins to be hopeful. In the fourth poem, the writer describes what the terrible enemies did to the people in the city. In the last poem, the city’s people realize that they have been bad. They repent and appeal to God for forgiveness.

Biblical Truths and Theology

This is about sin. The sins they were charged with, for which God brought this destruction upon them, and which served to justify God in it (v. 13, v. 14): It is for the sins of prophets and priests. Not that the people were innocent; no, they loved the sin (Jer. 5:31), and it was to please them that the prophets and priests did as they did. However, the fault is chiefly laid upon the leadership, who should have taught them better, should have reproved and admonished them, and told them what would be the results of such sinful behavior.

What was their sin? They shed the blood of their innocent children, whom they sacrificed to Moloch along with the blood of righteous men that were among them. The people’s sacrifice was under the pretext of religion. This was that sin which the Lord would not pardon (2 Ki. 24:4) and which brought the last destruction upon Jerusalem (Jam. 5:6) God tells them “You have condemned and killed the just.” The priests and prophets were the ringleaders in persecution, just as in Christ’s time the chief priests and scribes were the men that incensed the people against Him.

Now these are those that wandered as blind men in the streets, v. 14. They strayed from the paths of justice, were blind to everything that is good, but to quickly do evil. God says of corrupt judges, They know not, neither do they understand; they walk in darkness (Ps. 82:5); and Christ says of the corrupt teachers, They are blind leaders of the blind, Mt. 15:14. They have so polluted themselves with innocent blood, the blood of the saints, that men could not touch their garments; they made themselves odious to all about them, so that good men were as shy of touching them as of touching a dead body, which contracted a ceremonial pollution, or of touching the bloody clothes of one slain. There is nothing that will make prophets and priests to be abhorred so much as a spirit of persecution.

Items for Discussion

• In the days of Jeremiah, the prophets and priests were the teachers of the people. Who are today’s teachers of the people?
• Can you think of a few contemporary examples of where people are being misdirected, lead, taught to sin?
• There seems to be a correlation between the direction of leaders to facilitate sinful actions by the people and the people’s enjoyment of those sins – Does this go on today? Can you give some examples?
• Jeremiah is using the analogy of a “leper” when he talks about the sinful nature of people wandering through society. Why is this comparative example effective when today’s sinful actions of people are compared to their wondering around society as “lepers.”
• The sin of the people was to sacrifice children and innocent people. Do we do this today? Can you think of examples?
• How does God feel about this type of sinful behavior? (read 2 Kings 24:4)

Luke 5:12-13
12 While He was in one of the cities, behold, there was a man covered with leprosy; and when he saw Jesus, he fell on his face and implored Him, saying, “Lord, if You are willing, You can make me clean.” 13 And He stretched out His hand and touched him, saying, “I am willing; be cleansed.” And immediately the leprosy left him.

Background

In chapter 5 of Luke, we have the following:

• Christ preaching to the people out of Peter’s ship, for want of a better pulpit (v. 1-3).
• The compensation Jesus made to Peter for the loan of his boat, in a miraculous draught of fishes, by which he intimated to him and his partners his design to make them, as apostles, fishers of men (v. 4-11).
• His cleansing the leper (v. 12-15). IV. A short account of his private devotion and public ministry (v. 16, v. 17).
• His cure of the man sick of the palsy (v. 18-26).
• His calling Levi the publican, and conversing with publicans on that occasion (v. 27-32).
• His justifying his disciples in not fasting so frequently as the disciples of John and the Pharisees did (v. 33-39).

Biblical Truths and Theology

Leprosy is the word in the Bible for some serious skin diseases. But the original word that was used included other diseases, as well as what we know as leprosy. As the leprosy spreads, it eats away the sick person’s body. And in those days, there was no way to cure leprosy.

When a person had leprosy, they were considered unclean in the Jewish religion. That meant that the person with leprosy had to keep away from other people. When other people were near, they had to cover their upper lip. And they had to cry, ‘unclean, unclean’ (Leviticus 13:45-46). A person with leprosy could not work in order to earn the money that they needed. The leper had to depend on the kindness of other people in order to live.

Items for Discussion

• Is sin in our society today really as bad as having leprosy? Why or why not?
• Why were the lepers ostracized from society? Does this still work with sin today?
• What can you learn about Christ through this miracle?
• What can you learn about being healed from this leper?
• What can we learn about how society should co-exist with sin from this story?

Discussion Challenge

• How do we create a sanctuary for the lepers of society in our churches today?

• 1
  (NIV) New International Version Translations
• 2
  http://www.easyenglish.info/bible-commentary/lam-lbw.htm

Psalm 71:1-6¹NIV New International Version Translations
1 In you, Lord, I have taken refuge; let me never be put to shame. 2 In your righteousness, rescue me and deliver me; turn your ear to me and save me. 3 Be my rock of refuge, to which I can always go; give the command to save me, for you are my rock and my fortress. 4 Deliver me, my God, from the hand of the wicked, from the grasp of those who are evil and cruel. 5 For you have been my hope, Sovereign Lord, my confidence since my youth. 6 From birth I have relied on you; you brought me forth from my mother’s womb. I will ever praise you.

Background

What we have here is a psalm intended for those who are growing old, the declining years as David might have thought. David penned this psalm in his old age, an opinion gathered by the interpretation of several passages in it. Some think this might have been around the time of Absalom’s rebellion, a particular period of trouble of in David’s latter days. It also might have been written around the time of Sheba’s insurrection, or some trouble that happened to David in that part of his life of which it was foretold that the sword should not depart from his house. David, in spite of his personal troubles at the time, intended it for the general use of God’s people in their own afflictions, especially those as they grow old.

Biblical Truths and Theology

David prays that he might never be made ashamed of his dependence upon God. This is an example that every believer should follow, come boldly to the throne of grace found only in our God. David reminds us that our humility before God must begin our birth because God has been there from our birth. Our Hope for our youth should also be built upon God. David reminds us not to expect ease or comfort from the world because those who love the Lord are often hated and persecuted. This psalm assures us that faithful servants of God will not cast off in old age, or forsaken them when their strength fails. We are to trust that God is always there, our fortress, a place for rest and protection.

Items for Discussion

• How do the qualifications, the past history of success, influence people’s choices when they are looking for help?
• How do we learn to make good selections, good choices?
• How does prayer influence one’s choices and opportunities for success?
• As we grow older, does our ability to make better choices, pick help, get better?
  • Why in some does it get better?
  • Why in some does it seem to never improve?

Luke 14:25-33
25 Large crowds were traveling with Jesus, and turning to them he said: 26 “If anyone comes to me and does not hate father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters—yes, even their own life—such a person cannot be my disciple. 27 And whoever does not carry their cross and follow me cannot be my disciple. 28 “Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Won’t you first sit down and estimate the cost to see if you have enough money to complete it? 29 For if you lay the foundation and are not able to finish it, everyone who sees it will ridicule you, 30 saying, ‘This person began to build and wasn’t able to finish.’ 31 “Or suppose a king is about to go to war against another king. Won’t he first sit down and consider whether he is able with ten thousand men to oppose the one coming against him with twenty thousand? 32 If he is not able, he will send a delegation while the other is still a long way off and will ask for terms of peace. 33 In the same way, those of you who do not give up everything you have cannot be my disciples.

Background

The success of a disciple does not come easily. These passages in Luke are unique although there is some similarity in the passages of Matthew 10:37-38. It is significant that this passage is addressed to large crowds. Jesus has offered himself to all, but he also has been honest from the very beginning of his preaching as to what is involved with becoming a disciple of His. So what does Jesus want from His disciples? He wants their heart.

Jesus sets very high standards for a disciple. Hate your mother and father, your wife and children, your brothers and sisters and even your own life. Jesus must be first. To follow Him means no one, nothing can get in the way of that personal relationship with Christ. To be a disciple is to be a student where Jesus is the teacher. Loyalty counts, a disciple must always choose Christ first.

Biblical Truths and Theology²http://www.easyenglish.info/bible-commentary/luke9-19-im-lbw.htm

Verses 25-27 As Jesus travelled, crowds came to him. He taught them what it means to be his disciples.

The Bible teaches us to love each other. We must not even hate our enemies. In fact, we must love them (Luke 6:27). Here ‘hate’ means to love less. Our love for Jesus must be first and greater than our love for each other (Matthew 10:37). Our love for Jesus must be so strong that, in contrast, our love for our family is like hate.

Verses 28-33 To be a disciple of Jesus is not easy. The disciple has to give up everything to follow Jesus. This is a heavy price to pay. A person ought to think about this before he becomes a disciple. Jesus told two stories to teach this.

1. A man who wants to build a tall building must think first. He needs to be sure that he has the money to complete the building. If not, he may start to build but he may not be able to complete it. Then people will laugh at him. He was foolish because he did not have enough money to finish the job.
2. A king decides that he wants to fight against another king. He knows that the other king has more soldiers. So, he thinks hard about whether his 10 000 men can defeat the 20 000 men of his enemy. If his army can defeat the enemy, then let them fight. But if not, then he must arrange a peace agreement with the other king.

In the first story, the builder has a choice to build or not to build. A person must think whether he can afford to be a disciple. In the second story, the king must do something. Either he must fight or he must make a peace agreement. A person must decide whether He can choose whether he will be a disciple or not and whether we can afford to refuse the demands of Jesus.

Items for Discussion

• Why does effective discipleship have to be so hard, have to have such high standards?
• Is Christ’s model of discipleship a better way to teach life’s lessons? Yes, No, Why, Why Not?
• Can you be a good Christian and not be a Disciple? Why or Why Not?
• Can you find examples in the Christian Church where people use the lessons Christ taught in His two stories?
• So how do we balance our love for our family with our love for Christ?
• Or another way to ask the question, Is It Worth It? Why is it Worth It?

Discussion Challenge

• What is the church’s responsibility in building Disciples? How is this done?

• 1
  NIV New International Version Translations
• 2
  http://www.easyenglish.info/bible-commentary/luke9-19-im-lbw.htm

Isaiah 9:2-7¹NIV New International Version Translations
2 The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned. 3 You have enlarged the nation and increased their joy; they rejoice before you as people rejoice at the harvest, as warriors rejoice when dividing the plunder. 4 For as in the day of Midian’s defeat, you have shattered the yoke that burdens them, the bar across their shoulders, the rod of their oppressor. 5 Every warrior’s boot used in battle and every garment rolled in blood will be destined for burning, will be fuel for the fire. 6 For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. 7 Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David’s throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this.

Background²http://www.christianity.com/bible/commentary.php?com=mhc&b=23&c=9

The Syrians and Assyrians first ravaged the countries mentioned here, and that was the first region to be favored by the preaching of Christ. Those that were in want for the gospel’s message, walk in darkness, and are in the utmost danger. But when the gospel comes to any place, to any soul, light comes with it. Our prayer should be that the gospel’s message shines light into our hearts, and make us wise to see, understand and seek salvation. There is really good news. The gospel brings joy with it. There is of course a catch: Those who seek to have the gospel’s joy, must expect to go through hard work, as the laborer in a field labors before he has the joy of harvest; and experience hard conflict, as the soldier, before he divides the spoils.

The Jews were delivered from the yoke of many oppressors; this was, however, only a shadow of their deliverance. Isaiah foretold that they would be also delivered from the yoke of Satan. The cleansing the souls of believers from the power and pollution of sin, would be by the influence of the Holy Spirit, as purifying fire. These great things for the church, were to be done by the Messiah, Emmanuel. The Child is born; it was certain; and the church, before Christ came in the flesh, would be the beneficiary by Christ’s undertaking. It is a prophecy of Christ and of His kingdom, which those that waited for the Consolation of Israel would read with pleasure. This Child would be born for the benefit of us men, of us sinners, of all believers, from the beginning to the end of the world. Justly is he called Wonderful, for he is both God and man. His love is the wonder of angels and glorified saints. He is the Counsellor, for he knew the wisdom of God from eternity; and he gives counsel to men, in which he consults for our welfare. He is the Wonderful Counsellor; none teaches like him. He is God, the mighty One. Such is the work of the Mediator that has no less power than that of the mighty God Himself. He is God, one with the Father. As the Prince of Peace, he reconciles us to God; he is the Giver of peace in the heart and conscience; and when his kingdom is fully established, mankind shall desire war no more.

The really good news here is that even the government will be upon Christ’s shoulders; He will bear the burden of it. Glorious things are spoken of Christ’s government. There is no end to the increase of its peace, for the happiness of its subjects and all of this will last forever.

Biblical Truths and Theology³http://www.easyenglish.info/bible-commentary/isaiah1-9-lbw-nh.htm

Verse 2: ‘In darkness’ is a powerful description. It describes the feelings of people who had long been prisoners in a foreign land. They could see no possible hope ever again.

Verse 4: The people’s enormous relief felt as if a very heavy weight had gone from their shoulders.

• Centuries earlier, God’s people had been slaves of another enemy called Midian, for 7 years. But then God appointed Gideon, a most unlikely hero, to free them (see Judges 7:15-25). It was such a wonderful surprise that the nation long remembered the story. Isaiah himself mentions it twice more (see 10:26 and 60:6).

Verses 6-7: God allows Isaiah to glimpse what the arrival of the Messiah (Christ) will mean. The Messiah will be born as a child. That is, he is human.
But he is also the holy Son of God. And he will be our ruler, that is, our King. His names cover the whole of our lives:

• as ‘Wonderful Adviser’, he is all Wisdom (see 1 Corinthians 1:30);
• as ‘All-Powerful God’, he is all Power (see Philippians 4:13);
• as ‘Father Always’, he is all Love (see John 14:21); and
• as ‘Commander-Who-Brings-Peace’, he is all Calm (see Philippians 4:7).

Items for Discussion

• Why does the “church” exist?
• If you rated our Christian Churches today, where to they get an “A+” and where to they get an “F.”
• Christ would become the world’s role model – why are the people of the world not learning?
• How does a skill get passed on to future generations?
• Why should we believe that Christ will bring Peace?
• What do you think Christ’s government will be like? Are there any lessons for us today?

Matthew 9:35-36
35 Jesus went through all the towns and villages, teaching in their synagogues, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom and healing every disease and sickness. 36 When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.

Background⁴http://www.christianity.com/bible/commentary.php?com=mhc&b=40&c=9

Matthew documents that Jesus was not only visiting the great and wealthy cities but also the poor, obscure villages. He was “going” and “ministering” to those people. Jesus’s ministry took the form of preaching and healing. We would learn that even the souls of the dregs of society were as precious to Christ, and should be so to us, as the souls of those who make the greatest leaders. There were priests, Levites, and scribes, all over the lands He visited. Unfortunately, those “great people” had been idol shepherds (Zechariah 11:17) Christ’s ministry showed us that we must have compassion on the people as if they were sheep that had been scattered, as people perishing for lack of knowledge. Even now, multitudes are nothing more than sheep without a shepherd. Our calling is to have compassion and do all we can to help them. The multitudes of people in need of spiritual instruction still leave a plentiful harvest. These “fields” are in need of many laborers and Christ is the Lord of the harvest.

Biblical Truths and Theology⁵http://www.easyenglish.info/bible-commentary/matthew-lbw.htm

Matthew repeats the words that he wrote in Matthew 4:23. From the end of chapter 4 to the end of chapter 9, Matthew shows how Jesus did His work. It was the kings and the religious leaders that had the duty to look after their ‘sheep’ for God. They often failed. (See 1 Kings 22:17; Ezekiel 34:1-10.) In Jesus’ time, the people were weak and worried. They were like tired sheep that wanted to eat some grass. They wanted to know God. But the religious leaders could not guide them. All the laws that they had made were like a great weight. That weight pushed people down so that they became even more worried. Jesus cared deeply about these ‘sheep’. He wanted the disciples to care about these people (sheep) too.

Items for Discussion

• Jesus went to the towns and villages: How do we do that today?
• There are two actions that take place in congregations-people come to them as tired sheep and the congregation goes out to help those who may be too tired to even come in. Look at both actions: how should a modern day congregation serve these needs?
• How would you describe the role of “ministering” to the flocks? What is it, who does it, where does it happen?
• What is the role of the family in ministering?
• What problems in our society can you attribute to not enough ministering of people?
• So what is the threefold purpose of the Church?
  • Proclaiming, Teaching and Healing

Discussion Challenge

• What suggestions do you have on how a group of people can live up to and live out the words of these two verses?

• 1
  NIV New International Version Translations
• 2
  http://www.christianity.com/bible/commentary.php?com=mhc&b=23&c=9
• 3
  http://www.easyenglish.info/bible-commentary/isaiah1-9-lbw-nh.htm
• 4
  http://www.christianity.com/bible/commentary.php?com=mhc&b=40&c=9
• 5
  http://www.easyenglish.info/bible-commentary/matthew-lbw.htm

Psalm 8¹New International Version Translations
1 Lord, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth! You have set your glory in the heavens. 2 Through the praise of children and infants you have established a stronghold against your enemies, to silence the foe and the avenger. 3 When I consider your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place, 4 what is mankind that you are mindful of them, human beings that you care for them? 5 You have made them a little lower than the angels and crowned them with glory and honor. 6 You made them rulers over the works of your hands; you put everything under their feet: 7 all flocks and herds, and the animals of the wild, 8 the birds in the sky, and the fish in the sea, all that swim the paths of the seas. 9 Lord, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth!

Background²http://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/matthew-henry-complete/psalms/8.html

This psalm 8 is a solemn meditation on, and admiration of, the glory and greatness of God. Written by David, the psalm reflects the times and thoughts David must have had as he provided for his flock as a shepherd. It begins as it ends with the same acknowledgment of the excellency of God’s name. It is proposed for proof (v. 1) that God’s name is excellent in all the earth, and then it is repeated as proved (with a “quod erat demonstrandum’’—which was to be demonstrated) in the last verse. For the proof of God’s glory David gives instances of God’s goodness to man; for God’s goodness is his glory.

1. For making Himself and His great name known to us (v. 1).
2. For making use of the weakest of the children of men to serve God’s own purposes (v. 2).
3. For making even the heavenly bodies useful to man (v. 3, v. 4).
4. For making man to have dominion over the creatures in this lower world, and thereby placing mankind just below that of the angels (v. 5-8).

This psalm is, in the New Testament, applied to Christ and the work of our redemption which Christ carried out; the honor given by the children of men to Christ (v. 2, compared with Mt. 21:16) and the honor placed upon the children of men by Christ, both in his humiliation, when he was made a little lower than the angels, and then in his exaltation, when he was crowned with glory and honor. Compare v. 5, v. 6, with Heb. 2:6-8; 1 Co. 15:27.

When we are observing the glory of God in the kingdom of nature and God’s providence given to us, we should be led to the contemplation of Christ’s glory in the kingdom of God’s grace.

Biblical Truths and Theology³http://www.christianity.com/bible/commentary.php?com=mhc&b=19&c=8

David seeks to give God all the glory due to his name. How bright this glory shines even in this lower world! He is ours, for he made us, protects us, and takes special care of us. The birth, life, preaching, miracles, suffering, death, resurrection, and ascension of Jesus are known through the world. No name is so universal, no power and influence so generally felt, as those of the Savior of mankind. But how much brighter it shines in the upper world! We, on this earth, only hear God’s excellent name, and praise that; the angels and blessed spirits above, see his glory, and praise that; yet he is exalted far above even their blessing and praise. Sometimes the grace of God appears wonderfully in young children. Sometimes the power of God brings to pass great things in his church, by very weak and unlikely instruments, that the excellency of the power might the more evidently appear to be of God, and not of man. This he does, because of his enemies, that God could easily silence them.

We are to consider the heavens, that man may be directed to set his affections on things above. What is man, so mean a creature, that he should be so honored! Why are we so sinful a creature, that we should be favored this way! Man has sovereign dominion over the inferior creatures, under God, and is appointed their lord. This refers to Christ. In Hebrews 2:6-8, the apostle, to prove the sovereign dominion of Christ, shows he is that Man, that Son of man, here spoken of, whom God has made to have dominion over the works of his hands. The greatest favor ever showed to the human race, and the greatest honor ever put upon human nature, were exemplified in the Lord Jesus. With good reason does David conclude as he began, Lord, how excellent is your name in all the earth, which has been honored with the presence of our Savior, and is still enlightened by His gospel, and governed by His wisdom and power! What words can reach his praises, who has a right to our obedience as our Redeemer?

Items for Discussion

• God is to be glorified, why?
• What are the benefits of meditation?
• Is society doing more or less these days? Why?
• What can we do to help ourselves, our friends, family, neighbors think more about our God?

Luke 11:24-28
24 “When an impure spirit comes out of a person, it goes through arid places seeking rest and does not find it. Then it says, ‘I will return to the house I left.’ 25 When it arrives, it finds the house swept clean and put in order. 26 Then it goes and takes seven other spirits more wicked than itself, and they go in and live there. And the final condition of that person is worse than the first.” 27 As Jesus was saying these things, a woman in the crowd called out, “Blessed is the mother who gave you birth and nursed you.” 28 He replied, “Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it.”

Background⁴http://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/matthew-henry-complete/luke/11.html

In chapter 11 of Luke, Christ teaches his disciples to pray and encourages them to be frequent, instant, and overly persistent in prayer (v. 1-13). Christ also fully answers the charge of blasphemy by the Pharisees, who claim that by casting out devils, he has made a pact with Beelzebub, the prince of the devils, and shows the absurdity and wickedness of it (v. 14-26). Christ shows the honor of obedient disciples to be greater than that of his own mother (v. 27, v. 28). He criticizes the men of that generation for their infidelity and obstinacy, notwithstanding all the means of evidence offered to them of their guilt (v. 29-36). Finally, Christ severely scolds the Pharisees, their own lack of conscience, and their hatred and persecution those that have borne witnessed to their wickedness (v. 37-54).

Biblical Truths and Theology⁵http://www.easyenglish.info/bible-commentary/luke9-19-im-lbw.htm

Verses 24-26 Jesus had just sent a demon out of a man. Of course Christ did not make people free so that evil spirits could enter their lives again. People have a choice whether they will serve God or not. In the story, the man chose not to allow God to rule his life. That wrong decision gave the demon the opportunity to return to that man. This story, therefore, does not mean that the demon will return to that man. The man is in charge of those decisions.

The evil spirit thinks of a person as its home. If it leaves that home, it will wander in dry places. People thought of dry deserts as the place where there were evil spirits. This evil spirit looks for a place of rest in the dry desert places. It does not find such a place of rest. So, it returns to the person that it calls its ‘house’.

Without the evil spirit, the person’s life had improved. When the evil spirit returns, he finds the person in a better state. But the person has not permitted God to rule his life. So that person is available for the evil spirit to come in again. The evil spirit finds 7 worse evil spirits. And they all make their home in the person. So, the person is in an even worse state than before.

In this story, God blesses the man by removing is handicap but, through choice, the man had not allowed God to rule his life; he had not allowed the Holy Spirit to enter that empty place. So, the man was open to the return of the evil spirit. When the Holy Spirit rules a person’s life, there is no room for an evil spirit to enter.

Verses 27-28 The woman thought that it would be wonderful to be the mother of Jesus. She would be happy if her son was as great as him. His mother must be happy because God had blessed her with such a son. That was true but Jesus spoke of something more important. The natural relationship with him is not so important. But God blesses those people who have a right attitude to his word. They hear the word of God and they obey it.

Items for Discussion

• When something good happens to you, something very good, how do you know if God was involved in the process?
• Why are we vulnerable when we leave God out of our lives?
• Do we recognize all evil?
• What does a “God Centered” life do to protect us from evil?
• How do you know if you are “full enough” to be protected from evil?

Discussion Challenge

• How should a church/congregation keep the lives of its people full?

• 1
  New International Version Translations
• 2
  http://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/matthew-henry-complete/psalms/8.html
• 3
  http://www.christianity.com/bible/commentary.php?com=mhc&b=19&c=8
• 4
  http://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/matthew-henry-complete/luke/11.html
• 5
  http://www.easyenglish.info/bible-commentary/luke9-19-im-lbw.htm

Psalm 52¹NIV New International Version Translations 
1 Why do you boast of evil, you mighty hero? Why do you boast all day long, you who are a disgrace in the eyes of God? 2 You who practice deceit, your tongue plots destruction; it is like a sharpened razor. 3 You love evil rather than good, falsehood rather than speaking the truth. 4 You love every harmful word, you deceitful tongue! 5 Surely God will bring you down to everlasting ruin: He will snatch you up and pluck you from your tent; he will uproot you from the land of the living. 6 The righteous will see and fear; they will laugh at you, saying, 7 “Here now is the man who did not make God his stronghold but trusted in his great wealth and grew strong by destroying others!” 8 But I am like an olive tree flourishing in the house of God; I trust in God’s unfailing love for ever and ever. 9 For what you have done I will always praise you in the presence of your faithful people. And I will hope in your name, for your name is good.

Background²https://www.blueletterbible.org/comm/mhc/psa/psa_052.cfm

David, no doubt, was in mental anguish when he said to Abiathar (1 Sa. 22:22),”That day, when Doeg the Edomite was there, I knew he would be sure to tell Saul. I am responsible for the death of your whole family.” David blamed himself for causing the death of all the persons Abiathar’s father’s house. They all were put to death because of Doeg’s malicious information that was passed on by David. To give himself some relief to his grief, he penned this psalm. David:

1.  Sets responsibility back to Doeg for what he had done (v. 1).
2. Accuses him and convicts Doeg his crimes (v. 2-4).
3. Passes sentence upon him (v. 5).
4. Foretells the triumphs of the righteous in (v. 6, 7).
5. Comforts himself in the mercy of God and the assurance he had that he should still praise him (v. 8, 9).

In singing this psalm we should detest the sin of lying, foresee the ruin of those that persist in it, and reassure ourselves with the assurance of the preservation of God’s church and people, in spite of all the malicious designs of the children of Satan, that is the father of lies.

Entitled: To the chief musician, Maschil. A psalm of David, when Doeg the Edomite came and told Saul, and said unto him, David is come to the house of Ahimelech.

Biblical Truths and Theology³http://www.easyenglish.info/psalms/psalm052-taw.htm

Verse 1: The answer to the question may seem strange. But it is not! The strong, evil man will not always be with us. But the kind love of God will be! In other words, Satan will not be triumphant and victorious.

Verse 2: Our tongue is the part of our mouth that we eat and speak with. David says that Doeg’s tongue is like a sharp knife. The Hebrew word means “razor”. A razor is the sharp knife that men shave (or cut off) their beards with! Doeg’s words cut and hurt people’s feelings.

Verses 3 – 4: Here are some of the bad things that Doeg does.

Verse 5: But God will punish Doeg. He will also punish (or hurt) everybody else that is cruel. “Pull out” is what you do to plants: you pull them out of the ground, or you uproot them. Plants cannot live if their roots are not in the ground. Doeg cannot live either!

Verse 6: “Good people” is “the righteous” in Hebrew. Look after Psalm 5 (in Psalms 1-41) to see what righteous means. When God does something it often makes us feel afraid. But then we begin to understand what he has done, then we are happy!
Verse 7: A fortress is a place where your enemies cannot catch you. Look at Psalm 18:2 of Psalms 1-41. People are wrong if they think that God will not catch them because they think they:

• are very strong and powerful
• have a lot of money.

Doeg was powerful and had a lot of money. But God punished him anyway.

Verses 8 – 9: There are two important groups of words here:

• kind love (hesed in Hebrew)
• your people (hasidim in Hebrew).

Items for Discussion

• Do you think our society condones lying? Why or why not?
• What happens when there is no consequence to the act of lying or being untruthful?
• How does God feel about lying?
• What is the correct response from society, from individuals to untruths?
• God discounts both power and wealth – why is that bad news for some and good news for others?
• David passed on a “lie” – What is his response to when he finds out what he did?

Colossians 1:1-11
1 Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, and Timothy our brother, 2 To God’s holy people in Colossae, the faithful brothers and sisters in Christ: Grace and peace to you from God our Father. 3 We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you, 4 because we have heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and of the love you have for all God’s people— 5 the faith and love that spring from the hope stored up for you in heaven and about which you have already heard in the true message of the gospel 6 that has come to you. In the same way, the gospel is bearing fruit and growing throughout the whole world—just as it has been doing among you since the day you heard it and truly understood God’s grace. 7 You learned it from Epaphras, our dear fellow servant, who is a faithful minister of Christ on our behalf, 8 and who also told us of your love in the Spirit. 9 For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives, 10 so that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God, 11 being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience,

Background

Paul wrote this letter when he was in prison (Colossians 4:3). He was probably in Rome (Acts 28:16, 30-31). If he was, he wrote it about 60 years after Jesus’ birth. Paul was writing to the Christians who lived in the city called Colossae. It was 160 kilometers (100 miles) east of the city called Ephesus, in the valley of the river Lycus. Today this area is part of Turkey. The main roads for trade went past Colossae. It was a large and wealthy city for many centuries. But Laodicea (16 kilometers or 10 miles away) and Hierapolis (21 kilometers or 16 miles away) grew to be larger and more important cities. When Paul wrote this letter, Colossae had become a small town. It was no longer very important.

Epaphras was a man who lived in Colossae (1:7; 4:12-13). There he preached the good news about Jesus. The people who became Christians formed the church at Colossae. Most of them were Gentiles. Epaphras visited Paul in prison and told Paul about the young church that was at Colossae. The Christians who lived there had begun to listen to false teachers. Paul was worried that the Christians would turn away from the true gospel. Even today many false teachers do not seem to deny the gospel message. Instead, they slightly change it. Often they teach extra things or add rules to the gospel. Paul wrote to the Christians at Colossae to remind them about Jesus Christ and about his true message. Paul emphasized that Christ is superior. Paul wrote more about Christ in this letter than in any other of his letters. He reminded the Christians that their past life had gone. Christ was now their life. Christ had made them free from rules and evil powers.

Biblical Truths and Theology⁴http://www.easyenglish.info/bible-commentary/col-lbw.htm

Message of chapter one is as follows:

• The inscription, as usual (v. 1, v. 2).
• His thanksgiving to God for what he had heard concerning them—their faith, love, and hope (v. 3-8).
• His prayer for their knowledge, fruitfulness, and strength (v. 9-11).
• An admirable summary of the Christian doctrine concerning the operation of the Spirit, the person of the Redeemer, the work of redemption, and the preaching of it in the gospel (v. 12-29).

Let’s look at Paul’s summary:

Verse 9 Paul had not met the Christians who lived at Colossae. But he greatly cared about them. This was part of his work as an apostle. In verses 3-8, Paul thanked God for what God had already done for those Christians. In verses 9-14, Paul asked God to do particular things for them in the future. This is a wonderful prayer. All church leaders can pray like this for the Christians that they lead.

The false teachers believed that they had special knowledge and wisdom. They taught people how to understand this secret wisdom. But the false teachers did not believe and trust the true God. The Christians had started to believe these teachers. Paul did not try to correct the false teachers. Instead, he reminded the Christians about God’s truth. Paul did this in several places in this letter. Paul prayed that the Christians would learn more and more about God. The Greek words mean ‘be full of knowledge’. But people cannot discover this knowledge by themselves. The Holy Spirit will teach them (Ephesians 1:17). God wants people to know him more and more. He wants people to know about his wonderful purpose in Jesus. And God wants everybody to hear the good news. He can forgive sins. A person who knows God learns wisdom from the Holy Spirit. James 3:13-18 describes wisdom that comes from God. And those verses compare it with wisdom that does not come from God.

Verse 10 Christians learn wisdom from the Holy Spirit. Then they learn to behave in the right way. They know what God wants them to do. People who really know Christ start to behave like Christ. In verse 6, Paul said, ‘the gospel is spreading. And it produces fruit’. He repeated that idea in this verse. Paul described the fruit of the Holy Spirit in Galatians 5:22-23. So, ‘fruit’ refers to the good way in which Christians live. And ‘spreading’ means that more and more people are learning to know God. And they are learning what God has done by Jesus. When people become Christians, they start to know God. They learn what pleases him. Then they do what pleases him. As they do this, they will know God even more. In John 14:15, Jesus said that if people love him, they will obey him. This is how Christians become mature. And it is how they live holy lives.

Verse 11 A Christian cannot please God unless God helps him. God gives Christians the power to live the right way (Philippians 4:13). Only God has this power. For example, he made everything that is in the world and in the sky (Genesis 1:1-2:3). Jesus died on the cross. But God’s power made Jesus alive again (Ephesians 1:19-21). God gives his power to Christians, to you and me. Then we can trust Jesus more each day. Christians may have troubles in their lives. Sometimes they suffer because they are Christians (1 Peter 4:12-16). People may insult them. But God wants Christians to be patient and kind. And he wants Christians to continue to trust Christ. When they have troubles in their lives, God’s power will help them. Paul knew God’s power because he had received it (1:29). When God’s people have his power, they will also be happy in their spirit.

Items for Discussion

• What are some of the types of false messages that migrate into the Christian religion that you have become personally aware of?
• What are some of the risks of deciding what messages are false and what messages are truthful?
• Where do you personally see evidence of God’s power in your life?
• What is the danger of believing that there not be any struggles in life if you are a Christian?
• Think about two people you know, both seriously ill. One is a Christian and the other believes in God but not necessarily Christ. What is the difference in how they are living?
• What is our role as Christians when we hear doctrine that is false? What should we do?

Discussion Challenge

• What should the response be from Christians to people who habitually do not tell the truth?

• 1
  NIV New International Version Translations
• 2
  https://www.blueletterbible.org/comm/mhc/psa/psa_052.cfm
• 3
  http://www.easyenglish.info/psalms/psalm052-taw.htm
• 4
  http://www.easyenglish.info/bible-commentary/col-lbw.htm