Category: Snapshots (Page 19 of 45)

Isaiah 58:8-11[ref]NIV New International Version Translations[/mfn]
8 Then your light will break forth like the dawn, and your healing will quickly appear; then your righteousness will go before you, and the glory of the LORD will be your rear guard. 9 Then you will call, and the LORD will answer; you will cry for help, and he will say: Here am I. “If you do away with the yoke of oppression, with the pointing finger and malicious talk, 10 and if you spend yourselves in behalf of the hungry and satisfy the needs of the oppressed, then your light will rise in the darkness, and your night will become like the noonday. 11 The LORD will guide you always; he will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land and will strengthen your frame.

Background[ref]George W Coats Bibliography — J H Hayes and S A Irvine, Isiah (1987); G A F Knight, Prophets of Israel: Isaiah (1962); J R Rosenbloom, The Dead Sea Isaiah Scrolls (1970); J W Whedbee, Isaiah and Wisdom (1971).[/mfn]

The Book of Isaiah is the first and longest of the books of the Major Prophets in the Old Testament of the Bible. It derives its name from the prophet Isaiah, who lived in Jerusalem, perhaps of aristocratic origin. His prophetic career spanned half a century, from around 742 BC to at least 701.

The book, however, contains the work of more than one man. Scholars now generally agree that chapters 1 to 35, known as First Isaiah, can be ascribed either to Isaiah himself or to his disciples; chapters 36 to 39 have been taken directly from 2 Kings 18:13 – 20:18. Chapters 40 to 55, known as Second Isaiah, or Deutero – Isaiah, were the work of an anonymous prophet – poet during the latter part (c. 545 – 540 BC) of the Babylonian exile. Chapters 56 to 66, known as Third Isaiah, or Trito – Isaiah, were written by authors unknown in detail but working around the end of the 6th century (525 – 500 BC) or the beginning of the 5th (500 – 475 BC). Some of the material may be derived from a period even later than these times (c. 375 – 250 BC).

Biblical Truths

Our key verse is found in the section named Third Isaiah. This section includes 14 independent sayings concerning the operation of the restored Temple, with corresponding emphasis on the Sabbath and cult. The material comprises a short prophetic liturgy (56:9 – 47:13), an oracle of promise (57:14 – 21), an exhortation and promise (58:1 – 12), prophetic invective and threat (65:1 – 2), and a promise (65:8 – 25). The final chapter contains a prophetic denunciation of the Temple and a rejection of the sacrificial cult, as well as three prophetic sayings that announce an imminent end and its results. Isaiah contains some of the most beautiful and best known passages in the Bible. Two manuscripts of the book were found among the Dead Sea Scrolls.

Items for Discussion

• How would you compare these two questions?
• “What does my religion do for me?”
• “What does it make me do for others?”
• What does Isaiah say when a believer becomes outwardly shining (sharing)?
• How would you go about conducting a self-assessment of your light?

 

Matthew 5:13-15
13 “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled by men. 14 “You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house.

Background

Since the times of the early church, the apostle Matthew has always been accredited with the authorship of the first gospel (canonically). Even the title “According to Matthew” is found in the earliest manuscripts, and was the most highly regarded and quoted of the gospels by the church fathers. Matthew was a tax collector, probably stationed on a main trade route near Capernaum where he would have collected tolls for Herod Antipas from commercial traffic. Additionally, being a tax collector might better qualify Matthew for his role as an official recorder of the life and actions of Christ. After the resurrection there is no other mention of him in the New Testament.

Various estimates have placed the date of Matthew’s composition anywhere from AD 50 – to AD 100. It is widely accepted that Matthew was written to the Jews. For one, he focuses on the fulfillment of the Old Testament, even quoting from it sixty-two times, which is more than any other Gospel writer. Secondly it is interesting that Matthew does not explain Jewish culture like the other Gospel writers, which also adds to the argument that he is writing to Jews. Matthew uses the phrase, “kingdom of heaven,” (the only author, in fact, to use this phrase) which can be considered as a “reverential Jewish expression”—a term appropriate to a Jewish audience. His purpose in writing to the Jews was to show them that Jesus of Nazareth was the expected messiah and both his genealogy and his resurrection were legitimate proofs of this.

Biblical Truths

Jesus’ words capture the imagination. He speaks with such depth of meaning that you can see the words on a number of levels. In this passage He employs two metaphors. He calls those who believe in Him salt and light. It is an expression that is meant to help us see us role in the world as He sees it. He is continuing to teach the disciples Kingdom thinking.

Salt has to stay salty to be of value. If you lose your flavor, your distinctiveness, then you have lost your value. The Christian brings savor to life. His presence brings the perspective of the Holy Spirit and that completely changes the way things are seen. The Spirit points out eternal realities. He takes the mundane and fills it with eternal importance. The world needs your saltiness.

Jesus said that He is the light of the world. As Christians, we are the little lights, bringing His light in a way that is comprehendible to man. Out testimony makes the eternal something they can see at work. God is not so distant or unreachable when they see Him at work in our life. But if we hide that light for fear of being different, how is the world to see it? We have something desperately needed by all. Don’t hide it! If you truly have Him you can’t really hide Him. Don’t attempt to hide Him to fit in. The world needs Him! Let the light shine! Let it shine in the world, and let it shine in your home. Let them see Jesus manifested in your mortal life. Remember that He is the One everyone needs most desperately to see.

Items for Discussion

• How does salt loose its saltiness?
• There are numerous references to salt and its different uses in the Bible — why use a reference to “salt”?
• How do people put a bowl over their light?

Discussion Challenge

• How does a church find balance? That is bright light, preserving and flavorful salt within its work and message without ruining the meal?

Additional Study Notes

Items for Discussion in Isaiah 58:8-11

• How would you compare these two questions?
  •  “What does my religion do for me?”
    • This comes from a self-centered attitude that church and God are here to give me a good life
    • It is a common problem with society today, even within the Christian church itself.
  • “What does it make me do for others?”
    • Effectiveness of a church, faith, even salvation itself, should bring forth evidence of a generosity toward others.
• What does Isaiah say when a believer becomes outwardly shining (sharing)?
  • There will be physical healing
  • There will be strength in a hostile world
  • You will be given guidance
• How would you go about conducting a self-assessment of your light?
  • Break the time you spend in a week down into percentages
  • Church time (worship, committees, teaching, learning)
  • Leisure time (sports, TV, games, music)
  • Sleep
    Study time (for God, for yourself improvement)
  • Time with family in discussion (maybe breakdown the topics too)
  • Volunteer time
  • Work
• Rank order them as you have prioritized them and then rank order them as God would prioritize them

Items for Discussion in Matthew 5:13-15

• How does salt loose its saltiness?
  • It can’t. Pure salt, sodium chloride, can’t become unsalty; but the sodium chloride of impure salt can be leached out, especially in humid weather, and the remaining substance can be tasteless. This “salt” cannot become salty again.
  • When the purity of our faith is adulterated, or perhaps “watered down”, the pure “salt” may slowly slip away leaving us with a “tasteless” faith and it may be impossible to restore the pure one.
• There are numerous references to salt and its different uses in the Bible — why use a reference to “salt”?
  • A very small, can be quite powerful. One tiny crystal of salt can be tasted.
  • It doesn’t take too much extra salt to ruin a recipe.
  • Perhaps, to stretch the salt analogy, as salt can make food taste better, so we are to “add spice to life” — helping others improve their lives; but as too much salt can ruin the good food, sometimes too much help or pushing our faith too much, can destroy the good we are trying to accomplish.
  • Salt can preserve.
• How do people put a bowl over their light?
  • First, all people must believe that they have light.
  • Next, life’s priorities must reflect God’s priorities (yes, He allows us to work, to sleep, to relax and enjoy leisure activities) – If you were grading yourself on God’s scale, would you deserve a passing grade?

Psalm 91:1-6[ref]NIV New International Version Translations[/ref]
1 He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. 2 I will say of the LORD, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.” 3 Surely he will save you from the fowler’s snare and from the deadly pestilence. 4 He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart. 5 You will not fear the terror of night, nor the arrow that flies by day, 6nor the pestilence that stalks in the darkness, nor the plague that destroys at midday.

Background

This Psalm is without a title, and we have no means of ascertaining either the name of its writer, or the date of its composition, with certainly. It may be another Psalm of Moses. Many expressions used here are similar to those of Moses in Deuteronomy, and some evidence, from the peculiar idioms, would point towards him as the composer. However, we should never guess or speculate. This Psalm, like so many, could have also been written by David’s pen. What we do know is that Psalm 91 talks about the strength, security, protection, joy, etc. that comes from God. Verses one and two tells us that whoever dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.

Biblical Truths

Psalm 91 is a prayer of someone who has taken refuge in the security of the temple. The psalmist is confident that God’s presence will protect the people in every dangerous situation. The shelter of the Most High is basically a “hiding place” but in the psalms a designation to seek protection (see Psalm 27:5; 31:21; 61:5). The shadow of the Almighty means literally, “the shadow of the wings of the Almighty” (Psalm 17:8; 36:8; 57:2; 63:8). These verses make clear that the shadow is an image of the safety afforded by the outstretched wings of the cherubim in the holy of holies.

Items for Discussion

• How many different names are given to God in verses 1-2 and how do they differ in your mind?
• Why is the metaphor of God as a fortress so effective in describing our God’s Protection?
• What is God promising and not promising in these verses?
• What is the bottom line to these verses?

 

I Timothy 6:11-16
11 But you, man of God, flee from all this, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness. 12 Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called when you made your good confession in the presence of many witnesses. 13 In the sight of God, who gives life to everything, and of Christ Jesus, who while testifying before Pontius Pilate made the good confession, I charge you 14 to keep this command without spot or blame until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ, 15 which God will bring about in his own time—God, the blessed and only Ruler, the King of kings and Lord of lords, 16 who alone is immortal and who lives in unapproachable light, whom no one has seen or can see. To him be honor and might forever. Amen.

Background

It is suggested that this letter was written by Paul late in his career because he gives special attention to correct doctrine and church organization. The authorship, however, is not without its controversies. Jesus’ second coming recedes into the background compared to references in Paul’s earlier letters. The letter is not addressed to congregations but to those who shepherd congregations. This letter is probably written from Macedonia between the end of Paul’s first Roman imprisonment and his execution under Nero (A.D. 63-67).

Biblical Truths

The letter instructs Timothy on his duty to restrain false and useless teaching and proposes principles pertaining to his relationship with the older members of the community and with the presbyters. It gives rules for aid to widows and their selection for charitable ministrations and also deals with liturgical celebrations, selections for the offices of elder and deacon, relation of slaves with their masters, and obligations of the wealthier members of the community. This letter also reminds Timothy of the prophetic character of his office and encourages him in his exercise of it. The central passage of the letter expresses the principal motive that should guide the conduct of Timothy–preservation of the purity of the church’s doctrine against false teaching.

Items for Discussion

• How does Paul start off in verse 11? What advice is he giving?
• Would you consider this advice only for those who seek the leadership of the Church or for a church’s entire congregation?
• What do you notice about the metaphor used in conjunction with faith, “fight the good fight of the faith?”
• What are the cold facts of verse 16?

Discussion Challenge

• Why is faith in God and Christ so difficult?

Additional Study Notes

Items for Discussion from Psalm 91

• How many different names are given to God in verses 1-2 and how do they differ in your mind?
  • Most High — God’s strength and sovereignty.
  • Almighty — protector of all.
  • Lord — meaning sacred, holy.
  • God — the first true God — Thee God.
• Why is the metaphor of God as a fortress so effective in describing our God’s Protection?
  • A fortress is a stronghold of a permanent nature. So placing our trust in God is placing our trust in something that is permanent. Verses three through eight go on to tell us more about His protecting nature and loving care for those that place their trust in Him.
• What is God promising and not promising in these verses?
  • These verses tell us that God will deliver us from anything that tries to come against us. Anything that Satan tries to throw against us, God has already made an escape route. God has already covered it; He has already given us the protection, the security, the safety, the healing and the strength. God has covered it all, and we need only place our trust in Him and He will deliver it to us for He is our God and in Him, we can trust.
  • He has not promised us that Satan will not try and that bad things will come at us.
• What is the bottom line to these verses?
  • If we have truly place our trust in the comfort of God than we should be able to rest secure at all times in all dangers, and in all circumstances knowing that, we are resting in the shadow, the shelter of the Almighty God. God will send ministering spirits, angels to keep a watch over us and to keep us fully in His protection. He says that no evil shall befall us, nor shall any plague come near our dwelling. Why, because we have made the Lord our refuge our habitation. We have decided to dwell in Him.

Items for Discussion from 1 Timothy

• How does Paul start off in verse 11? What advice is he giving?
  • Read several prior verses to get the gist of the topic.
  • Calls Timothy a man of God
  • Tells him to run from the things/temptations of the world
  • Paul gives him the secret to success: Flee yes but pursue righteousness also.
• Would you consider this advice only for those who seek the leadership of the Church or for a church’s entire congregation?
  • For every Christian, there must be a conflict with corruption, and temptations, and the powers of darkness.
  • Eternal life is the crown proposed for our encouragement.
  • To the rich must especially be pointed out their dangers and duties, as to the proper use of wealth.
• What do you notice about the metaphor used in conjunction with faith, “fight the good fight of the faith?”
  • It is a fight.
  • Faith does not necessarily bring a peace into one’s life.
• What are the cold facts of verse 16?
  • Immortality is possessed, and achieved only through Christ. He dwells in unapproachable light which no man, or person in the flesh can see.

Psalm 23[ref]NIV New International Version Translations[/ref]
1 The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want. 2 He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, 3a he restores my soul. 3b He guides me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. 4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. 5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. 6 Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.

Background

The name Psalms or Psalter come from the Septuagint, the Greek translation of the Old Testament, where they originally referred to stringed instruments such as the harp, lyre and lute.

The author is King David, one of the most important figures in Jewish history. Born in 907 B.C., he reigns as king of Israel for 40 years, dying at age 70 in 837 B.C.

Biblical Truths

This type of Psalm is called a song of trust. It is an expression of confidence in God’s protection. The Lord is compared to a shepherd. The word “soul” means vitality, life. “Paths of righteousness” or “of rightness,” that is, right paths which suits the context better. “Shadow of death” is the translation we read, but “deep darkness” is the better interpretation from the Hebrew. The Lord is compared to a gracious host. “Dwell in the house of the Lord” means to worship in the temple. “Forever” is Hebrew for “length of days,” meaning “as long as I live.”

The psalm has two basic divisions, each one providing part of the answer to our question about worry. The first four verses focus on God as the faithful and good Shepherd of his people. It calls us to trust Him as such. The second section made up of the last two verses, focuses our attention on God as a gracious host, preparing a splendid meal for a guest, and results in our rejoicing over His grace toward us.

Items for Discussion

• What does God want us to know about His ability to be our Shepard?
• What do you notice about God’s guidance?
• Finally, what benefit do we as believers gain from God when we are confident in His love?
• Why should we be confident according to David?

 

John 10:1-15
1 “I tell you the truth, the man who does not enter the sheep pen by the gate, but climbs in by some other way, is a thief and a robber. 2 The man who enters by the gate is the shepherd of his sheep. 3 The watchman opens the gate for him, and the sheep listen to his voice. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. 4 When he has brought out all his own, he goes on ahead of them, and his sheep follow him because they know his voice. 5 But they will never follow a stranger; in fact, they will run away from him because they do not recognize a stranger’s voice.” 6 Jesus used this figure of speech, but they did not understand what he was telling them. 7 Therefore Jesus said again, “I tell you the truth, I am the gate for the sheep. 8 All who ever came before me were thieves and robbers, but the sheep did not listen to them. 9 I am the gate; whoever enters through me will be saved. He will come in and go out, and find pasture. 10 The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. 11 “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. 12 The hired hand is not the shepherd who owns the sheep. So when he sees the wolf coming, he abandons the sheep and runs away. Then the wolf attacks the flock and scatters it. 13 The man runs away because he is a hired hand and cares nothing for the sheep. 14 “I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me—15 just as the Father knows me and I know the Father—and I lay down my life for the sheep.

Background

The book of John interprets Jesus from a Greek viewpoint because Jesus is presented as the incarnation of the “logos.” Six hundred years before the time of Jesus, the Greek philosopher Heraclitus used the Greek word “logos” to refer to the “mind” or rational power of God that created the world by bringing order out of chaos (as reflected in John 1:1-3). Other Greek philosophers viewed the “logos” as giving “intelligence” to human beings (as reflected in John 1:4 and 1:9).

The book of John describes Jesus as teaching God’s “truth” which human beings should follow in living as God intends for people to live. It is by following this truth or “light” that human beings experience life which Jesus described as “eternal” and “abundant.”

Although the book of John may interpret Jesus in terms of Greek philosophy, it is evident that the writer had “inside information” that could have come only from an eyewitness to Jesus. The book provides specific details about the disciples of Jesus and the events in Jesus’ life that appear to be more realistic than the descriptions given in the synoptic books. For example, Matthew, Mark, and Luke report a “voice from heaven” came at Jesus’ baptism, declaring that Jesus was God’s “beloved Son.” But John wrote that it was John the Baptist who declared that Jesus was “the Son of God” when Jesus was baptized. John’s version of this story is obviously more realistic. There are other examples like this to support John’s claim to having an eyewitness as a resource.

Although Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John write from different viewpoints, what is consistent in the four books is the message of Jesus that it is God’s will for people to love God and love each other as we love ourselves. Jesus refers to this message as God’s word, or truth, or commandment, or will, and those who accept this, as evidenced by how a person lives, will experience life as it is intended to be, and is described by the concept of “entering the Kingdom of God” on earth.

Biblical Truths

Christ is our protector, guarding us spiritually from attack, just as shepherds protect their flock by guarding the sheep pen. Many people think Christians are wrong to say that Jesus is the only way to salvation. They seek other ways to bridge the impenetrable chasm between God and man–such as good moral behavior or religious rituals. Yet Jesus Himself said that He is the only way to eternal life. Others have come in the past and will come in the future claiming to be the way to God. Jesus called them thieves and robbers. Only Christ fulfilled all the prophesies concerning the Jewish Messiah written about in the Scriptures. In contrast to thieves, who are only interested in what they can take, Jesus was only interested in what He could give. He gives life–full of abundance and richness. This life is eternal, yet it begins the moment we give control of our lives to Him. Life in Christ is lived on a higher plane because of His

Items for Discussion

• Who is the false shepherd?
• What is the mark or style of the false shepherds?
• What is the object of the false shepherds?
• How can Christ be both the true shepherd and the gate?
• What does it mean to you when we say, “Christ is the door into the Church.”
• Who is the hired hand?
• How would we expect the behavior of a hired hand to be different from that of the true shepherd that Christ is talking about?

Discussion Challenge

• Why should we care that Christ is the one true shepherd? (Hint: revisit Psalm 23)

Additional Study Notes

Items for Discussion in Psalm 23

• What does God want us to know about His ability to be our Shepherd?
  • His provision is perfect
  • His provision renews and satisfies
  • Conclusion: Rather than worry ourselves to death, why not trust God for what only He can provide?
  • Look at verse 3b — God’s faithful provision is only part of what He does for those who know and love Him. He guides us as well.
• What do you notice about God’s guidance?
  • He guides you in righteous paths
  • He does it for His name’s sake
• Finally, what benefit do we as believers gain from God when we are confident in His love?
  • His protection
• The summary verses (5 & 6) in Psalm 23 tell us to rejoice in God’s grace. Why should we according to David?
  • Because He Spares no Blessing
  • Because it Results in Constant Fellowship with Him

Items for Discussion in John 10:1-15

Discuss the following:

• Who is the false shepherd?
  •  Christ had been speaking of the Pharisees
  •  Also referring to the one great false shepherd, Satan
•  What is the mark or style of the false shepherds?
  • They enter not by the gate–Christ is the gate.
  • The mark of every false shepherd is that they are not saved themselves.
• What is the object of the false shepherds?
  • To steal, and to kill, and to destroy.
  • This is the object of Antichrist.
  • This is the object of the world.
• How can Christ be both the true shepherd and the gate?
  • He showed himself the good shepherd by his entering in by the gate, that is, ‘by his own blood, obtaining eternal redemption for us’. True, if he had remained without his taking our sins upon him, he would not need to have entered in, but he took our sins upon him.
• What does it mean to you when we say, “Christ is the door into the Church.”
  • The only way into the Church of God is by Christ, and through faith in Him.
  • Many enter in by learning; learning is not to be despised. But yet it is not the door.
  • There are many that enter by having eminent gifts, but these are not the door.
  • Many enter in by the door of worldly favor, some by the favor of the rich, some by the life of the common people, some by the favor of a patron or parent but they do not enter in by the door. Remember then, and never forget it, that the right way into the ministry is through Jesus Christ.
  • Many enter into the fold another way, by the door of knowledge but if you have not come into the fold by being washed in the blood of Christ, you have not entered through the door.
• Who is the hired hand?
  • Unfaithful ministers: that is to say, the end he seeks is the hire not the flock. This was often complained of by the prophets.
  • Isaiah complained of it in his day (Isaiah 56: 10, 11).
  • Jeremiah complained of them in his day (Jeremiah 6:13).
  • Ezekiel complained of them in his day (Ezekiel 34:2).
  • Paul complained of them in his day (Philippians 2:20, 2 1).
• How would we expect the behavior of a hired hand to be different from that of the true shepherd that Christ is talking about?
  • The shepherd would go ahead to make sure the way was safe.
  • The shepherd would search for even one sheep that was lost.
  • A shepherd would lay down his life for his flock.

 

Psalm 84[ref]NIV New International Version Translations[/ref]
1 How lovely is your dwelling place, O LORD Almighty! 2 My soul yearns, even faints, for the courts of the LORD; my heart and my flesh cry out for the living God. 3Even the sparrow has found a home, and the swallow a nest for herself, where she may have her young—a place near your altar, O LORD Almighty, my King and my God. 4 Blessed are those who dwell in your house; they are ever praising you. 5 Blessed are those whose strength is in you, who have set their hearts on pilgrimage. 6 As they pass through the Valley of Baca, they make it a place of springs; the autumn rains also cover it with pools. 7 They go from strength to strength, till each appears before God in Zion. 8 Hear my prayer, O LORD God Almighty; listen to me, O God of Jacob. 9 Look upon our shield, O God; look with favor on your anointed one. 10 Better is one day in your courts than a thousand elsewhere; I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than dwell in the tents of the wicked. 11 For the LORD God is a sun and shield; the LORD bestows favor and honor; no good thing does he withhold from those whose walk is blameless. 12 O LORD Almighty, blessed is the man who trusts in you.

Background

The name Psalms or Psalter come from the Septuagint, the Greek translation of the Old Testament, where they originally referred to stringed instruments such as the harp, lyre and lute. It is generally supposed, David wrote this, when he was driven out of the land by Absalom. David was born in 907 B.C., he reigns as king of Israel for 40 years, dying at age 70 in 837 B.C.

Biblical Truths

The theme of this psalm is the advantages that accompany one who is in touch with the living God, the advantages that belong to the life of faith, the life of fellowship with a living God.

Verses 1-7: The psalmist declares his love for the ordinances of God, and the happiness of those that enjoy them.

Verse 4: Those that constantly abide in God’s house; the priests and Levites, or other devout Jews who were there perpetually, are continually employed in blessed work.

Verse 5: Blessed are those who trust in God and rely only upon His strength. Those who have set their hearts upon Zion, journey with God.

Verse 6: Baca – A dry valley on the way to Jerusalem, is a barrier in one’s journey. But people dig little pits or wells in it for their relief. God rewards their diligence with His blessing, sending rain so their wells may be filled.

Verse 7: As they journey, they grow stronger and stronger. This is a blessing for their long and tedious journey.

Verses 8-18: A devout prayer and expression of faith in God.

Verse 9: The psalmist, David, calls for God to cast a favorable eye towards him. Because as a sinner, God anointed him king.

Verse 10: David calls out that his desire to dwell in the greatest glory and plenty, only to be found with God.

Verse 11: Metaphors: A sun – To enlighten and quicken, and direct and comfort his people. A Shield – To save his people from all their enemies. Grace – His favor, which is better than life. Glory – The honor which comes from God here, and eternal glory.

Items for Discussion

• When we read about a place like Baca Valley, what comes to mind?
• The first thing the Psalmist sees is an inner beauty that God creates by His presence. What is the beauty that you see?
• Why do so many people fail to see the beauty that God creates?
• The second thing the Psalmist sees is that God creates a compelling hunger. How would you describe someone who is “hungry” for God?
• Third thing the Psalmist sees is the joyful vitality that the presence of God gives. How would you describe this in your own terms?

 

John 14:1-6
1 “Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me. 2 In my Father’s house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you. 3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. 4 You know the way to the place where I am going.” 5 Thomas said to him, “Lord, we don’t know where you are going, so how can we know the way?” 6 Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”

Background

The disciples of Jesus had good reason to be “troubled” because as they reclined at the table a few moments earlier He spoke of the traitor in their midst (13:21), and His leaving them and going where they could not follow (vv. 33, 36). Jesus saw confusion, hurt, disappointment, fear, frustration and bewilderment in their faces that night. The conversation continues to flow from chapter 13 as Christ prepares His disciples for the day ahead. He comforts them by telling them His departure is to His Father’s house, with a view of preparing a place for them and then coming again to those who know the direction of the journey.

There is a chapter break between 13:38 and 14:1. However, Jesus is answering Peter’s question in 13:36-37 that refers back to Jesus’ words about His departure in v. 33. The disciples are “troubled” about what Jesus has been revealing to them about His death and resurrection (13:33). Jesus is consoling His disciples and revealing a greater understanding of Himself to them.

Biblical Truths

The truths and theology in the first 6 verses of chapter 14 of John are not overly complex; Christ lays out five basic principles that must be understood for His disciples to really get the point. They are:

• God has a purpose: God’s purpose is to spend eternity with his beloved. Even though this life is full of trouble, trials, and tribulation, His plan will be to our benefit.
• God has a plan: God’s plan is to allow us the choice to be with Him forever. He created the man and the woman in the garden and walked with them daily. But He also planted a tree there that represented their choice to follow him or to reject him
• God has a Place for us: In my Father’s house are many mansions or many different dwelling places.
• God has a promise. God’s promise is to be our shepherd forever. Let the Lord love you throughout this life into the life to come. Then he comes to get us one by one until all is full.
• He is God: “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”

Items for Discussion

• Describe what you think heaven will be like?
• Compare heaven to your home. What are the main differences you would expect to find in heaven?
• What would you consider to be the minimum criteria to have before you set out on a trip?
• Now take your criteria and apply it to Christ’s message in these passages-What would Christ have as minimum criteria?

Discussion Challenge

• If Christ is the only way to find God eternally, why do Christians differ so much on how to seek fellowship with Christ?

Additional Study Notes

Items for Discussion in Psalm 84

• When we read about a place like Baca Valley, what comes to mind?
  • Christians have always believed that this verse means: when life is difficult, God will send help.
• The first thing the Psalmist sees is an inner beauty that God creates by His presence. What is the beauty that you see?
  • No wrong answer here but it is important to be able to see the beauty
• Why do so many people fail to see the beauty that God creates?
  • Probably because they are too busy looking at the things that man has made and called beautiful
• The second thing the Psalmist sees is that God creates a compelling hunger. How would you describe someone who is “hungry” for God?
  • Again, no wrong answers here but it would be sad to go through life not recognizing someone hungry for God.
• Third thing the Psalmist sees is the joyful vitality that the presence of God gives. How would you describe this in your own terms?
  • Lot of answers here but it could be summed up with a word like “Joy.” When people are truly at peace with God and letting God fill them with a vitality for doing his work, the energy is like that of a lighting bug, it cannot be hidden, especially in the dark.

Items for Discussion in John 14:1-6

• Describe what you think heaven will be like?
  • This is not a theological question; just share your personal thoughts and views. The important point is that we should be thinking about heaven and what it is like.
• Compare heaven to your home. What are the main differences you would expect to find in heaven?
  • Answers like no bugs, the kids rooms are neat, etc. don’t count
  • The Father Is There (in my Father’s house)
  • The Family Is There (all your brothers and sisters in the Lord)
  • The Fellowship Is There
  • Unequaled Fellowship
  • Undisturbed Fellowship
  • Unchangeable Fellowship
  • Unspeakable Fellowship
  • The Fascination Is There
  • There will be New Excitement
  • There will be Never-Ending Excitement
  • The word Fascination means: To be Taken in
• What would you consider to be the minimum criteria to have before you set out on a trip?
  • Now take your criteria and apply it to Christ’s message in these passages-What would Christ have as minimum criteria?
  • A reason – We all perish but there is a place to exist forever that is wonderful.
  • Transportation – No one has the right transportation and must rely on someone else.
  • Directions-No one knows the pathway except Christ.
  • Perseverance-It is not easy to be a believer.

Psalm 80:7-19[ref]NIV New International Version Translations[/ref]
7 Restore us, O God Almighty; make your face shine upon us, that we may be saved. 8 You brought a vine out of Egypt; you drove out the nations and planted it. 9 You cleared the ground for it, and it took root and filled the land. 10 The mountains were covered with its shade, the mighty cedars with its branches. 11 It sent out its boughs to the Sea, its shoots as far as the River. 12 Why have you broken down its walls so that all who pass by pick its grapes? 13 Boars from the forest ravage it and the creatures of the field feed on it. 14 Return to us, O God Almighty! Look down from heaven and see! Watch over this vine, 15 the root your right hand has planted, the son you have raised up for yourself. 16 Your vine is cut down, it is burned with fire; at your rebuke your people perish. 17 Let your hand rest on the man at your right hand, the son of man you have raised up for yourself. 18 Then we will not turn away from you; revive us, and we will call on your name. 19 Restore us, O LORD God Almighty; make your face shine upon us, that we may be saved. 

Background

This psalm was composed around some calamity, which impacted the tribes of Israel after their division into two kingdoms but before the captivity of either of them. Called the psalm of Asaph, the psalmist prays for the tokens of God’s presence, ver. 1 – 3; Complains of heavy distress, ver. 4 – 7; Illustrates this, by the comparison of a vine, ver. 8 – 16; and Concludes with a prayer for mercy, ver. 17 – 19. An Asaph was a Levite; one of the leaders of David’s choir (1 Chr. 6:39). He is mentioned along with David as skilled in music, and a “seer” (2 Chr. 29:30).

Biblical Truths

Psalm 80 is a community lament in time of military defeat. Using the familiar image of Israel as a vineyard, the people complain that God has broken down the wall protecting the once splendid vine brought from Egypt (Psalm 80:9-14). They pray that God will again turn to them and use the Davidic king to lead them to victory (Psalm 80:15-19).

A vine: a frequent metaphor for Israel. (Isaiah 5:1-7; 27:2-5; Jeremiah 2:21; Hosea 10:1; Matthew 21:33).

The sea: the Mediterranean. The river: the Euphrates. (Genesis 15:18; 1 Kings 5:1). The terms may also have a mythic nuance–the seas that surround the earth; sea and river are sometimes paralleled in poetry.

The man at your right hand . . . the one: the Davidic king who will lead the army in battle.

Items for Discussion

• What is the way that the vine is used to describe Israel in this Psalm?

 

John 15:1-10
1 “I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. 2 He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful. 3 You are already clean because of the word I have spoken to you. 4 Remain in me, and I will remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me. 5 “I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. 6 If anyone does not remain in me, he is like a branch that is thrown away and withers; such branches are picked up, thrown into the fire and burned. 7 If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be given you. 8 This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples. 9 “As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love. 10 If you obey my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have obeyed my Father’s commands and remain in his love.”

Background

There are numerous Old Testament passages which refer to Israel as a vine: Ps 80:8-16, Isa 5:1-7, Jer 2:21, Ezek 15:1-8, 17:5-10, 19:10-14, and Hos 10:1. The vine became symbolic of Israel, and even appeared on some coins issued by the Maccabees.

Ezek 17:5-10 contains vine imagery which refers to a king of the house of David, Zedekiah, who was set up as king in Judah by Nebuchadnezzar. Zedekiah allied himself to Egypt and broke his covenant with Nebuchadnezzar (and therefore also with God), which would ultimately result in his downfall (17:20-21). Ezek 17:22-24 then describes the planting of a cedar sprig which grows into a lofty tree, a figurative description of Messiah. But it is significant that Messiah himself is not described in Ezekiel 17 as a vine, but as a cedar tree. The vine imagery here applies to Zedekiah’s disobedience.

Therefore, for the modern day Christian, John’s verses on Jesus as the Vine provide us new teaching and new insight into our Creator and Savior.

Biblical Truths

15:1. I am the true Vine (cf. v. 5). This is the last of the seven great “I am” statements in John (cf. comments on 6:35). Israel was God’s choice vine on which he lavished care and attention (Ps 80:8; Isa 8:1-7; Jer.2:21; 6:9; Ezek 15; 17:5-10; 19:10-14; Hos 10:1; 14:8). He longed for fruit, but the vine (Israel) became degenerate and produced rotten fruit. Therefore Jesus, as “the true Vine,” fulfills what God had intended for Israel. The Father is the Gardener who cultivates and protects the Vine.

15:2. He (i.e., the Gardener, the Father) desires fruit, which is mentioned eight times in this chapter (vv. 2 [three], 4 [twice], 5,8,16). A progression is seen: fruit (v. 2), more fruitful (v. 2), and “much fruit” (vv. 5,8). The fruit which God desired from Israel was loving obedience, righteousness, and justice (Isa 5:1-7). Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit He cuts off. The phrase “in Me” does not mean the same thing as Paul’s words “in Christ.” Here it is part of the metaphor of the Vine and seems to mean, “every person who professes to be My disciple (a ‘branch’) is not necessarily a true follower.” A branch that bears no fruit is obviously dead. Therefore, like Judas, it is cut off. (See comments on John 15:6.) Every year in Palestine gardeners prune their vines. They cut off the dead wood which has no life in it and trim the living branches so that their yield will be greater.

15:3. The disciples had been cleansed by Jesus and His message, but one, Judas, was not cleansed (cf. 13:10-11).

15:4. Fruitfulness is the result of the Son’s life being reproduced in a disciple.

15:5-6. A disciple’s continual abiding with Jesus (If a man remains in Me) — and the indwelling of Jesus in a believer (and I in him) — result in abundant fruit (cf. v. 8). But those who do not believe face disaster. A branch without life is dead and cut off (v. 2). It is worthless and therefore is thrown into the fire and burned.

15:7-8. In contrast with verse 6, the emphasis in these verses is positive: remain with Jesus and bear much fruit. Effective prayer is based on faith in Christ and on His words remaining in believers. Christ’s words condition and control such a believer’s mind so that his prayers conform to the Father’s will.

15:9-10. A believer is motivated by the wonder of Jesus’ love, which is patterned after the Father’s love in its quality and extent. Remain in My love might seem to be mystical but Jesus makes it very concrete. Obedience to the Father’s commands is the same for a disciple as it was for the Son (cf. 14:15,21,23; 1 John 2:3; 3:22,24; 5:3). Active dependence and loving obedience are the proper paths for all of God’s children.

Items for Discussion

• The word remain, a key word in John’s theology, is mend which occurs 11 times in this chapter, 40 times in the entire Gospel, and 27 times in John’s epistles. What does it mean to remain?
• What do you think Jesus meant by these symbolic words about vine branches being burned?
• How would remaining in Christ the vine lead to more answered prayer?
• In summary, Jesus was instructed His disciples on three vital relationships. Can you simply all of this into those relationships?
• As a result, we as disciples have three respective duties. Can you summarize those?

Discussion Challenge

• What are the most important choices that Christians can make to “Remain” in the vine?

Additional Study Notes

Items for Discussion in Psalm 80

• What is the way that the vine is used to describe Israel in this Psalm?
  • The Old Testament passages which use this symbol appear to regard Israel as faithless to God and/or the object of severe punishment. Ezek 15:1-8 in particular talks about the worthlessness of wood from a vine (in relation to disobedient Judah). A branch cut from a vine is worthless except to be burned as fuel. This appears to fit more with the statements about the disciples than with Jesus’ description of himself as the vine.

Items for Discussion in John 15:1-10

• The word remain, a key word in John’s theology, is mend which occurs 11 times in this chapter, 40 times in the entire Gospel, and 27 times in John’s epistles. What does it mean to remain?
  • It can mean, first, to accept Jesus as Savior (cf. 6:54,56).
  • Second, it can mean to continue or persevere in believing (8:31 [“hold” is remain]; 1 John 2:19,24).
  • Third, it can also mean believing, loving obedience (John 15:9-10). Without faith, no life of God will come to anyone. Without the life of God, no real fruit can be produced: Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in Me.
• What do you think Jesus meant by these symbolic words about vine branches being burned?
  • These words have been interpreted in at least three ways:
  • The “burned” branches are Christians who have lost their salvation. (But this contradicts many passages, e.g., 3:16,36; 5:24; 10:28-29; Rom 8:1.)
  • The “burned” branches represent Christians who will lose rewards but not salvation at the judgment seat of Christ (1 Cor 3:15). (But Jesus spoke here of dead branches; such a branch is thrown away and withers.)
  • The “burned” branches refer to professing Christians who, like Judas, are not genuinely saved and therefore are judged. Like a dead branch, a person without Christ is spiritually dead and therefore will be punished in eternal fire (cf. Matt 25:46). Judas was with Jesus; he seemed like a “branch.” But he did not have God’s life in him; therefore he departed; his destiny was like that of a dead branch.
• How would remaining in Christ the vine lead to more answered prayer?
  • Since his prayer is in accord with God’s will, the results are certain – it will be given you (cf. 1 John 5:14-15). Fulfilled prayers bring glory to the Father because, like Jesus, His disciples are doing the heavenly Father’s will (cf. “Your kingdom come, Your will be done on earth” [Matt 6:10]).
• In summary, Jesus was instructed His disciples on three vital relationships. Can you simply all of this into those relationships?
  • Disciples are to be rightly related to Jesus (vv. 1-10), to each other (vv. 11-17), and to the world (vv. 15:18-16:4).
  • As a result, we as disciples have three respective duties. Can you summarize those?
  • To remain (abide), to love each other, and to testify.

Psalm 51[ref]NIV New International Version Translations[/ref]
1 Have mercy on me, O God, according to your unfailing love; according to your great compassion blot out my transgressions. 2 Wash away all my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin. 3 For I know my transgressions, and my sin is always before me. 4 Against you, you only, have I sinned and done what is evil in your sight, so that you are proved right when you speak and justified when you judge. 5 Surely I was sinful at birth, sinful from the time my mother conceived me. 6 Surely you desire truth in the inner parts; you teach me wisdom in the inmost place. 7 Cleanse me with hyssop, and I will be clean; wash me, and I will be whiter than snow. 8 Let me hear joy and gladness; let the bones you have crushed rejoice. 9 Hide your face from my sins and blot out all my iniquity. 10 Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. 11 Do not cast me from your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me. 12 Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me. 13 Then I will teach transgressors your ways, and sinners will turn back to you. 14 Save me from bloodguilt, O God, the God who saves me, and my tongue will sing of your righteousness. 15 O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth will declare your praise. 16 You do not delight in sacrifice, or I would bring it; you do not take pleasure in burnt offerings. 17 The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise. 18 In your good pleasure make Zion prosper; build up the walls of Jerusalem. 19 Then there will be righteous sacrifices, whole burnt offerings to delight you; then bulls will be offered on your altar.

Background

This is considered one of the Psalms of David. It reflects David’s lament and request for forgiveness when the prophet Nathan came to him, after he had gone in to Bathsheba. Psalm 51 is one of the seven Penitential Psalms. These seven psalms have served as a special source of prayer and reflection during Lent for centuries. The tone of their honest pleading is compelling and invites us to turn to our Lord with the same candor and desire. The other six psalms are 6, 32, 38, 102, 130 and 143.

Biblical Truths

Psalm 51, a lament, is the most famous of the seven Penitential Psalms. It prays for the removal of the personal and social disorders that sin has brought. The poem has two parts of approximately equal length: Psalm 51:3-10 and Psalm 51:11-19, and a conclusion in Psalm 51:20-21. The two parts interlock by repetition of “blot out” in the first verse of each section (Psalm 51:3, 11), of “wash (away)” just after the first verse of each section (Psalm 51:4) and just before the last verse (Psalm 51:9) of the first section, and of “heart,” “God,” and “spirit” in Psalm 51:12, 19. The first part (Psalm 51:3-10) asks deliverance from sin, which is not just a past act but its emotional, physical, and social consequences. The second part (Psalm 51:11-19) seeks something more profound than wiping the slate clean: nearness to God, living by the spirit of God (Psalm 51:12-13), like the relation between God and people described in Jeremiah 31:33-34. Nearness to God brings joy and the authority to teach sinners (Psalm 51:15-16). Such proclamation is better than offering sacrifice (Psalm 51:17-19). The last two verses ask for the rebuilding of Jerusalem (Psalm 51:19 [20-21]).

Verse 5 defines the psalmist as a sinner, even as his mother conceived him: literally, “In iniquity was I conceived,” an instance of hyperbole[ref]A figure of speech in which deliberate exaggeration is used for emphasis. Many everyday expressions are examples of hyperbole: tons of money, waiting for ages, a flood of tears, etc.[/ref]: at no time was the psalmist ever without sin. (See Psalm 88:15, “I am mortally afflicted since youth,” i.e., I have always been afflicted.) The verse is not implying that the sexual act of conception is sinful.

Hyssop is a small bush whose many woody twigs make a natural sprinkler. It was prescribed in the Mosaic law as an instrument for sprinkling sacrificial blood or lustral water for cleansing. (See Exodus 12:22; Lev 14:4; Numbers 19:18.)

Verse 16 “You do not delight in sacrifice” helps us understand that the mere offering of the ritual sacrifice apart from good dispositions is not acceptable to God. (See Psalm 50).

There is a belief by many scholars that the last two verses were added to the psalm some time after the destruction of the temple in 587 B.C. The verses assume that the rebuilt temple will be an ideal site for national reconciliation.

Items for Discussion

• Can you find the three main points of this psalm?
• What is David praying for in this psalm? (1-2)
• What does God desire of David? (6)
• In praying for forgiveness, what does David ask God to do? (7-12)
• In praying for restoration, what does he ask God to do? (7-12)
• What two things does David promise to do when forgiven? (13-15)
• What does God desire more than burnt offering? (16-17)

 

Romans 8:31-39
31 What, then, shall we say in response to this? If God is for us, who can be against us? 32 He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things? 33 Who will bring any charge against those whom God has chosen? It is God who justifies. 34 Who is he that condemns? Christ Jesus, who died—more than that, who was raised to life—is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us. 35 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? 36 As it is written: “For your sake we face death all day long; we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered.” 37 No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. 38 For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, 39 neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Background

The Epistle to the Romans was written to Christians residing in the city of Rome (1:7, 15). Rome was the center of the Empire and was ethnically diverse. In the first century AD it had a population of around one million people in an area less than ten square miles. Of this large population, it is estimated that there was between 40,000 and 50,000 Jews in the city. The Jewish population dates back to the second century BC as part of the Diaspora. In AD 64 there was a large fire in Rome that led Nero to expulse the Jews. This also resulted in the first major persecution of the Church.

It is unclear how the church in Rome originally began. The best explanation is that the Romans who were present at Pentecost (Acts 2:10-11) eventually made their way back to Rome and started a church in one of the synagogues. However, there are also other explanations. “All roads lead to Rome” was the popular saying that demonstrated the city’s importance and accessibility. It should not be surprising that there was already an established church before Paul’s arrival. People who may have heard the gospel in Asia, Greece, or elsewhere could have traveled to Rome. In Romans 16 Paul greets several people, with the most notable of these being Priscilla and Aquila. Both Aquila and Priscilla were in Rome until about AD 49 when Claudius expelled all the Jews from the city (Acts 18:2). Paul probably met the couple when he came to Corinth. They did further ministry in Ephesus (Acts 18:19) around AD 53. From there they went to Rome. It is likely that they were not the first ones to bring the gospel to Rome. A church was probably already established as it is noted that Paul greets the church that met in their house (16:5).

Of course the city of Rome was predominately populated by Gentiles and so it is expected that the church was comprised of both Jewish and Gentile believers (cf. 1:6, 7:1). Paul addresses both groups in this epistle.

Biblical Truths

Many believers today seem to lose the wonder of what God has done for them. In these verses, we can see that Paul never lost that wonder.

1. THE WONDER OF GOD FOR US (8:31)
   1. The God Who is For Us (Psalm 56:9)
   2. None Can Oppose Us (Isaiah 54:17)
2. THE WONDER OF GOD’S FREE GIFTS (8:32)
   1. The Free Gift of His Son (John 3:16)
   2. The Free Giving of All Things (Psalm 84:11)
3. THE WONDER OF DIVINE JUSTIFICATION (8:33)
   1. God has Justified (Romans 3:24; 5:1)
   2. None Can Press Charges
   3. The attempts of the devil (Revelation 12:9-10)
   4. The forgiveness of Christ (John 8:10-11)
4. THE WONDER OF CHRIST’S INTERCESSION (8:34)
   1. The Payment He Made on the Cross
   2. The Position He has with the Father (Ephesians 1:19-23)
   3. The Pleading He Makes for the Saints (Hebrews 7:24-25)
5. THE WONDER OF CHRIST’S KEEPING LOVE (8:35)
   1. The Fact of No Separation (John 10:28-30)
   2. The Act of No Separation
   3. Not tribulation
   4. Not distress
   5. Not persecution
   6. Not famine
   7. Not nakedness
   8. Not peril
   9. Not sword
6. THE WONDER OF BEING CONQUERORS (8:36-37)
   1. Though Counted as Sheep for the Slaughter (8:36)
   2. We Stand as More Than Conquerors (8:37; 1 Corinthians 15:57; 2 Corinthians 2:14)
7. THE WONDER OF FULL PERSUASION (8:38-39)
   1. The Feeling of Persuasion (8:38)
   2. The Range of His Love (8:38-39)
      1. Death
      2. Life
      3. Angels
      4. Principalities
      5. Powers
      6. Things present
      7. Things to come
      8. Height
      9. Depth
      10. Any other creature
   3. The Container for His Love (8:39) – In Christ Jesus our Lord

Items for Discussion

• Can anyone bring a charge against a Christian?
• Is there someone who tries to bring charges against the Christian?
• Are Satan’s accusations valid? Will they hold up in court?
• Who condemns the believer before God?
• What can separate the Christian from the love of God?
• Using Paul’s list, what is your greatest wonder?
• A child always seems to find wonder in the simplest things around them. With time, they learn to be bored by everything. A new Christian is caught up in the wonder of God’s great salvation. Why does our wonder leave us? How can we get it back?

Additional Study Notes

Items for Discussion in Psalm 51

• Can you find the three main points of this psalm?
  • David’s plea (1-12)
  • David’s promise (13-17)
  • David’s prayer (18-19)
• What is David praying for in this psalm? (1-2)
  • For God to have mercy upon him
  • For God to blot out his transgressions
  • For God to wash and cleanse him from his sin
• What does God desire of David? (6)
  • Truth in the inward parts
  • Wisdom in the hidden part
• In praying for forgiveness, what does David ask God to do? (7-12)
  • Purge him with hyssop, that he might be clean (note the figurative language again)
  • Wash him, that he might be whiter than snow
  • Hide His face from his sins
  • Blot out all his iniquities
• In praying for restoration, what does he ask God to do? (7-12)
  • Make him hear joy and gladness
  •  Make his broken bones rejoice
  • Create in him a clean heart
  • Renew a steadfast spirit in him
  • Not cast him away from His presence
  • Not take His Holy Spirit from him
  • Restore to him the joy of His salvation
  • Uphold him with His generous Spirit
• What two things does David promise to do when forgiven? (13-15)
  • Teach transgressors the ways of God
  • Sing aloud the righteousness of God
• What does God desire more than burnt offering? (16-17)
  • A broken and contrite heart

Items for Discussion in Romans 8:31-39

• Can anyone bring a charge against a Christian?
  • No one! It is God who justifies. If God is the Judge and He declares us justified, that settles it.
• Is there someone who tries to bring charges against the Christian?
  • Yes. Satan tries. In Revelation 12:10, we read that he is the accuser of the brethren, accusing us before God day and night.
• Are Satan’s accusations valid? Will they hold up in court?
  • Yes, his accusations are valid because we sin. But are thrown out of court because God is both Judge and Justifier of the believer.
• Who condemns the believer before God?
  • No one. Jesus Christ is at the right hand of God making intercession for us. He is the One who died for us and paid the penalty of sin. The payment is guaranteed by Christ’s resurrection and ascension
• What can separate the Christian from the love of God?
  • Nothing! See Romans 8:35-39 for a full answer.
• Using Paul’s list, what is your greatest wonder?
  • As a personal question, please share.

Micah 6:6-8[ref]NIV New International Version Translations[/ref]
6 With what shall I come before the LORD and bow down before the exalted God? Shall I come before him with burnt offerings, with calves a year old? 7 Will the LORD be pleased with thousands of rams, with ten thousand rivers of oil? Shall I offer my firstborn for my transgression, the fruit of my body for the sin of my soul? 8 He has showed you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.

Background

Micah is a shortened form of Micaiah. He was:

• The son of Merib-baal (Mephibosheth), 1 Chr. 8:34, 35.
• The first in rank of the priests of the family of Kohathites (1 Chr. 23:20).
• A descendant of Joel the Reubenite (1 Chr. 5:5).
• “The Morasthite,” so called to distinguish him from Micaiah, the son of Imlah (1 Kings 22:8). He was a prophet of Judah, a contemporary of Isaiah (Micah 1:1), a native of Moresheth of Gath (1:14, 15). Very little is known of the circumstances of his life (comp. Jer. 26:18, 19).

The Book of Micah is the sixth in order of the so-called Minor Prophets. The book consists of three sections, each commencing with a rebuke, “Hear ye,” etc., and closing with a promise, (1) ch. 1; 2; (2) ch. 3-5, especially addressed to the princes and heads of the people; (3) ch. 6-7, in which Jehovah is represented as holding a controversy with his people: the whole concluding with a song of triumph at the great deliverance which the Lord will achieve for his people. The closing verse is quoted in the song of Zacharias (Luke 1:72, 73). The prediction regarding the place “where Christ should be born,” one of the most remarkable Messianic prophecies (Micah 5:2), is quoted in Matt. 2:6.

There are the following references to this book in the New Testament: Micah 5:2, with Matt. 2:6; John 7:42. 7:6, with Matt. 10:21, 35-36. 7:20, with Luke 1:72-73.

Biblical Truths

While we do not know much of the man, Micah, his influence on the Jewish people was widespread. One hundred years after his prophecies, the elders of Judah quote Micah to validate the legitimacy of Jeremiah’s ministry [Jeremiah 26:18]. Seven hundred years after his prophecies, the wise men from the East came to King Herod and asked him where the King of the Jews was to be born. The scribes of Jerusalem responded to this inquiry by quoting Micah 5:2, and stating that the Messiah would be born in Bethlehem [Matthew 2:2-6].

Micah puts the blame for the idolatry and moral evil of the day squarely on the leadership in Samaria and Jerusalem. Micah lists the evil of the leaders in Chapter 3: They are unjust (v. 1), they take bribes (v. 11), they are lovers of evil (v. 2), they exploit the people (v. 2-3). This cruelty and inhumane treatment of the people is described very graphically to demonstrate their extreme evil. The leaders of Israel and Judah lack mercy, justice, and humility. The religious leaders of the day are also condemned for their corruption. They too accept bribes, teaching and divining according to what the people want to hear (v. 11). The people want to hear is that all is well (v. 5).

In chapter 7, Micah bemoans the lack of Godly leadership, and reiterates the extreme evil of the day: You can trust no one. Even your friends (v.. 5) and your family (v. 6) will betray you for their dishonest gain. The only one left who can be trusted is God.

Micah 6 describes how the LORD has taught the people the right thing to do. He begins by challenging the people to prove that God has unjustly accused them. Then He shows how God led them from Egypt and taught them His ways, “that you may know the righteousness of the LORD.”[Micah 6:5] So how should the people respond (v. 6)? One possible response is proposed: burnt offerings and sacrifices. And sacrifices not just of calves and rams, but even the first born! But God is not interested in sacrifice. God is looking at our character, not our willingness to sacrifice.

Micah condemns the leaders of Israel and Judah for their lack of justice, their cruelty to their fellow man, and their prideful arrogance. Their heart attitude was exactly opposite of the characteristics that God requires of man to avoid punishment. This verse serves as Micah’s call to repentance, a repentance that will result in redemption and restoration.

After the people are rid of their idolatry, the Messianic kingdom will come. In Micah 5:2-5a and 7:14-20 we see some of the character of the Messiah. His leadership is a stark contrast to the corrupt and immoral leadership of Micah’s day. The Messiah is described in verse 5:4 as a shepherd who cares for His flock: Micah 7:14 describe God himself as a shepherd to His people who is full of mercy and compassion. This becomes our picture of God’s character: the faithful shepherd who delights in mercy and love. When we walk humbly with our God, he is faithful to shower us with mercy. Then he guides us like a shepherd.

Items for Discussion

• The first requirement God has for us is to do justice. As believers, we are to stand on the side of justice. We are called not only to do justice, but also to love kindness. We need to stand on the side of the oppressed, the poor, and the needy. How do you balance obedience to God with what we saw in New Orleans from Katrina? Starving, the sick, the dying, looting, rape and murder.
• How would you help the helpless?
• Who do you hold accountable?
• How would you stop the lawlessness with justice and loving kindness?
• What does walking with God mean to you?
• What is humility before God?

 

Romans 12:9-13
9 Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. 10 Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. 11 Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. 12 Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. 13 Share with God’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.

Background

The Epistle to the Romans was written to Christians residing in the city of Rome (1:7, 15). Rome was the center of the Empire and was ethnically diverse. In the first century AD it had a population of around one million people in an area less than ten square miles. Of this large population, it is estimated that there was between 40,000 and 50,000 Jews in the city. The Jewish population dates back to the second century BC as part of the Diaspora. In AD 64 there was a large fire in Rome that led Nero to expulse the Jews. This also resulted in the first major persecution of the Church.

Biblical Truths

Verse 9. Love must be sincere-Proceeding now to speak of particular duties; Paul begins with love, which is the bond of perfection. Hence Paul declares here, that love is no other but that which is free from deception: and any one may easily see within himself, whether he has anything in the recesses of his heart which is opposed to love. Evil is to be taken for that malicious wickedness by which an injury is done to men; and good for that kindness, by which help is rendered to them.

Verse 10. In brotherly love-We ought to embrace one another: for Paul calls it brotherly, and its emotion (storgh) affection, which, among the Romans, is the mutual affection which exists between relatives; and is what we should have towards all children of God.

Verse 11. Never lacking in zeal-This is given to us, not only because a Christian life ought to be an active life; but because we should be challenged to overlook our own benefit, and to spend our labors in behalf of others. In a word, we ought to work so hard as to forget ourselves so that we remain in service for Christ.

By adding spiritual fervor, he shows how we are to attain the zeal; we are always in need of goals; and it is only the fervency of the Spirit that can correct our lack of zeal. Diligence in doing good requires the zeal which the Spirit of God kindles in our hearts.

Verse 12. Be joyful in hope-Three things are connected together; he who derives his joy from the hope of future life, and patiently bears affliction stimulates us to prayer.

Verse 13. Sharing with God’s people in need-Paul returns to the duties of love; the most important of which is to help those from whom we expect the least in return. Hospitality is not a small act of love; that is, kindness and generosity that is shown towards strangers. The more neglected any one is by men, the more attentive we ought to be to his wants.

Paul commands us to assist especially the saints: for though our love ought to extend itself to the whole race of man, it ought with peculiar feeling, embrace the fellow Christians, who are by a closer bond united to us.

Items for Discussion

• Is our nation loving enough to overcome disasters such as Katrina?
• Is our nation more divisive or less divisive today than when you were born? Why?
• How do you respond to the hateful rhetoric of some of our governmental leaders?
• Are love and compassion a prerequisite for leadership?
• What is your list of top ten items for everyday living? Please share with everyone

Discussion Challenge

• What will your church’s response be to a Katrina-like disaster?

Additional Study Notes on Love

1. Love is greater than faith and hope because love is eternal, while faith and hope are temporal (see 1 Corinthians 13:8-13). Because that which God has promised cannot presently be seen, faith and hope are necessary in this life. But when the perfect comes, when our Lord returns and we are living eternally in His presence, we will no longer need faith, for we shall see Him and experience all that He has promised. Our hope will be fulfilled. Our love for Him, however, will last for all eternity, inspiring our worship and service in His presence.
2. Love is the appropriate response to God’s love and grace, in Christ (see Luke 7:42, 47).
3. Love is the great commandment and one of the distinguishing marks of a true disciple of our Lord (Matthew 22:37; Mark 12:33; Luke 6:27-36; John 13:35; 15:12-13).
4. Love facilitates and contributes to Christian unity (John 17:20-26; Colossians 2:2; 3:14).
5. Love is the lubricant which greatly reduces the friction which can build up between us and others (Ephesians 4:2; 1 Peter 4:8).
6. Love is a key motive for our obedience to our Lord’s commands (John 14:15, 21, 23, 24; 15:10; 21:15-17; 1 John 5:2; 2 John 1:16).
7. Love is a stabilizing factor in our lives (Ephesians 3:17).
8. Love is the goal of Paul’s teaching as it should be the goal of all Christian teaching (1 Timothy 1:5).
9. Love is the one command which encompasses all aspects of our Christian life (Romans 13:8-10; 1 Corinthians 16:14).
10. Love makes our service more profitable to others and to us (1 Corinthians 8:1; 13:1-13).
11. Love is a key element in our defenses against Satan’s attacks and devices (1 Thessalonians 5:8).
12. Our love can and should be constantly growing (Philippians 1:9; 1 Thessalonians 3:12; 2 Thessalonians 1:3; Hebrews 10:24; 2 Peter 1:7).
13. Our love can grow cold, especially in difficult times (Matthew 24:12; Revelation 2:4).

Jeremiah 31:3[ref]NIV New International Version Translations[/ref]
3 The LORD appeared to us in the past, saying: “I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with unfailing kindness.

Background

The Book of Jeremiah, second of the Major Prophets or longer books of the prophetic collection of the Old Testament of the Bible, derives its name from the prophet Jeremiah who lived in Anathoth, on the outskirts of Jerusalem. His prophetic career ranged from about 626 BC, during the reign of Josiah, at least to the fall of Jerusalem (586 BC) and the deportation of the population; at this time Jeremiah was taken by the remaining Jewish community to Egypt, where he died. The career of Jeremiah embraced the period of Josiah’s reformation (626 – 622 BC); the years of resurgent Judaic nationalism (608 – 597 BC); the period leading to the final demise of Judah (597 – 586 BC); and the time in Egypt.

The message of Jeremiah was a call to moral reform to establish a personal relationship between God and humankind. He advocated resignation in the face of political and religious crisis and denounced sin as a perversion of creation. He called urgently for repentance so that turning to God might lead to a new creation; he thus prefigured the New Testament notion of the “new covenant.”

Biblical Truths

Jeremiah 31 is one of the most inspiring and hopeful chapters in the book of Jeremiah. Its teaching offer both theological and practical truths. It speaks to all believers about their relationship with God.

In 31:3, Jeremiah explains that our only true basis of hope is the eternal love of God. Jeremiah highlights two attributes of God – His love and His immutability (or, unchanging nature) – combined together in a very encouraging manner. The love God has for His people is an enduring and everlasting love. His love for them is everlasting.

The word drawn here is a word that can be used both literally and figuratively. The only other time Jeremiah uses it is in 38:13. There he tells us that he was rescued from a well when they “pulled” (or “drew”) up from it. The use of the word in 31:3 is more figurative in nature, but we understand the image very well. For Israel’s southern kingdom, God was going to pull them back from Babylonian captivity (31:8-9).

With His wonderful love, God draws people to Himself. It can be said that spiritually speaking, we are all in a well, and God lifts us up out of it through His demonstration of love at the cross (Romans 5:8).

Items for Discussion

• What are the things you believe will still be around in 10 years? In 100 years? In 1,000 Years?
• Can you comprehend beyond a 1,000 years what might still be here?
• What could remove God from the earth so he is not here in 1,000 years?
• Why do you believe that God never changes?
• Why do you believe that God’s love endures?
• How is it that we relate this set of beliefs to others?

Hebrews 10:19-25
19 After I strayed, I repented; after I came to understand, I beat my breast. I was ashamed and humiliated because I bore the disgrace of my youth.’ 20 Is not Ephraim my dear son, the child in whom I delight? Though I often speak against him, I still remember him. Therefore my heart yearns for him; I have great compassion for him,” declares the LORD. 21 “Set up road signs; put up guideposts. Take note of the highway, the road that you take. Return, O Virgin Israel, return to your towns. 22 How long will you wander, O unfaithful daughter? The LORD will create a new thing on earth—a woman will surround a man.” 23 This is what the LORD Almighty, the God of Israel, says: “When I bring them back from captivity, the people in the land of Judah and in its towns will once again use these words: ‘The LORD bless you, O righteous dwelling, O sacred mountain.’ 24 People will live together in Judah and all its towns—farmers and those who move about with their flocks. 25 I will refresh the weary and satisfy the faint.”

Background

The 21 New Testament epistles are generally divided into two groups:

1. The Pauline Epistles (13) Romans – Philemon
2. The General Epistles (8) Hebrews – Jude

The book of Hebrews is the riddle book of the New Testament. It contains the most perfect Greek of the Bible, yet it stands without telling us who the author is. It is as much a sermon as it is an epistle. In fact in the words of the author it is called a “word of exhortation” (or encouragement) in 13:22, which is what a sermon is called in Acts 13:15 [Barnabas was called “the son of exhortation” or son of encouragement.

There are those who believe that Paul wrote the book of Hebrews and would classify it with his epistles and there are others that would not assign this to Paul. However, we see several things the author apparently wanted to accomplish. First, he wanted to encourage faltering Jewish Christians not to drift away from the message which they have heard (2:1; 5:12-14; 12:1-2). Some seemed about to forsake Christ and the Gospel and go back to the Law of Moses. And second, he wanted to encourage them to grow in their faith and not become stagnant (5:12-6:1). Third, they should be prepared to endure persecution. Fourth, the author endeavors to show the absurdity of forsaking Christianity and returning to the Law system (8:6-23; 9:13-15; 10:1-4; Gal. 4:21).

Biblical Truths

The doctrine is applied to practical purposes in these verses. As believers had an open way to the presence of God, it was of no use to them if they did not take advantage of this privilege. The way and means by which Christians enjoy such privileges, is by the blood of Jesus, by the merit of that blood which he offered up as an atoning sacrifice. The agreement of infinite holiness with pardoning mercy was not clearly understood till the human nature of Christ, the Son of God, was wounded and bruised for our sins. Our way to heaven is by a crucified Savior; his death is to us the way of life and to those who believe this, Christ will be precious. Believers must draw near to God; it would be disrespectful of Christ to still to keep a distance from Him.

Believers are also to consider how they can be of service to each other, especially stirring up each other to the more vigorous and abundant exercise of love, and the practice of good works. The communion of saints is a great help and privilege, and a means of steadfastness and perseverance.

Items for Discussion

• Describe how you met a very good friend and how the relationship grew over time. What were the special things that happened to deepen your friendship?
• How would the examples you heard compare to a faith walk? That is, how would you expect these same experiences to build a relationship with God? With Christ?
• How would you expect a relationship to be different with yourself between God? Between Christ?

Discussion Challenge

• How should our church help create these relationships?
  • Within the congregation
  • Within the community
  • Within our mission opportunities

 

Psalm 105:1-6[ref]
1 Give thanks to the LORD, call on his name; make known among the nations what he has done. 2 Sing to him, sing praise to him; tell of all his wonderful acts. 3 Glory in his holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the LORD rejoice. 4 Look to the LORD and his strength; seek his face always. 5 Remember the wonders he has done, his miracles, and the judgments he pronounced, 6 O descendants of Abraham his servant, O sons of Jacob, his chosen ones.

Background

This psalm gives the story of Joseph its theological context and places it at the very centre of Israel’s worship in the temple. The whole psalm celebrates “the wonderful works” of God (vss.3, 5) and summons Israel not only to sing thankful praise (vss. 1a, 2), but to “make known his deeds” (vs. 1b) and to “seek the Lord and his strength… (and ) his presence forever.”

Biblical Truths

LORD is a special name for God. His people use it. They are the people who love and obey him. They are his servants, as Abraham was, verse 6. He was their father, or forefather. This means that he lived long before them. But they were part of his family, even hundreds of years later! The *Hebrew words for “Abraham your father” mean “seed of Abraham”. This gives us a picture. The seed that Abraham planted became the country of Israel! Jacob was Abraham’s grandson. The *LORD chose Jacob, but did not choose his brother Esau. The 12 sons of Jacob, and their children, and grandchildren, and so on, became the people we call Israel. Israel was another name for Jacob. The Bible often calls them “sons of Jacob”, but they lived long after Jacob did. Today we call them Jews, because Judah (say it “Jewdar”) was the last name for their country in the Bible. The word “Lord” in the verse at the start is a different word but it means the same. It means God.

“Proud” in verse 3 has a good meaning and a bad meaning. The bad meaning is this. Proud people think that they are more important than they really are. The good meaning is this. We are proud (or happy) when something good has happened. When our football team (group) wins a game, we are proud of them! The psalm tells us to be proud of God’s *holy name. His name means everything about God. This includes the fact that he is holy. This means that he has never done anything bad. He is so good that we all feel a bit afraid of him.

In verse 5, “his miracles” are the things that he did. They were things that only God the *LORD could do. Men could not do them. Jesus did many miracles, as when he made the storm quiet and when he gave life to the dead man Lazarus. Jesus could do this because he is God. But the miracles in Psalm 105 are the things that God did in Egypt and later. They include the things that he did to Pharaoh. Pharaoh was the king of Egypt. We call these things the ten “plagues” or “bad things”. Psalm 78 includes 6 of the plagues, but Psalm 105 has 8 of them. They are in verses 29-36.

Items for Discussion

• How do we as Christians demonstrate that we are “proud of our God?”
• If someone would ask you to name miracles that God did which ones would you talk about?
• How can people get it wrong, that is celebrating God’s works with pride?

 

James 5:16
16 Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective.

Background

From the middle of the third century, patristic authors cited the Epistle as written by James the Just, the brother of Jesus. This James was not one of the Twelve, but Paul described him as “the brother of the Lord” in Galatians 1:19 and as one of the three pillars of the Church in 2:9.

John Calvin and others suggested that the author was James, son of Alphaeus, apparently the brother of Matthew, aka Levi. It is feasible that James of Alphaeus is the same person as the author of Mark 15:40. Since very little is known about this person, this proposal does not tell us very much about the author.

It is rarely but occasionally argued that this James was the apostle Saint James the Great, brother of John, son of Zebedee. However, most conclude that the author was not the apostle James, because he died too early. Specifically, James must have been killed before 44, but the Epistle of James seems to be written in order to clear up misconceptions about Paul’s teaching on justification by faith in the 50s.

From the viewpoint of its literary form, James is a letter only in the most conventional sense; it has none of the characteristic features of a real letter except the address. It belongs rather to the genre of parenesis or exhortation and is concerned almost exclusively with ethical conduct. It therefore falls within the tradition of Jewish wisdom literature, such as can be found in the Old Testament (Proverbs, Sirach) and in the extracanonical Jewish literature (Testaments of the Twelve Patriarchs, the Books of Enoch, the Manual of Discipline found at Qumran). More specifically, it consists of sequences of didactic proverbs, comparable to Tobit 4:5-19, to many passages in Sirach, and to sequences of sayings in the synoptic gospels. Numerous passages in James treat of subjects that also appear in the synoptic sayings of Jesus, especially in Matthew’s Sermon on the Mount, but the correspondences are too general to establish any literary dependence. James represents a type of early Christianity that emphasized sound teaching and responsible moral behavior. Ethical norms are derived not primarily from christology, as in Paul, but from a concept of salvation that involves conversion, baptism, forgiveness of sin, and expectation of judgment (James 1:17; 4:12).

Biblical Truths

In order to understand verse 5:16 we need to start several verses earlier. James has given specific instructions for the sick in verse 14:

The one who is sick is to call for the elders.

The elders are to pray for him.

The elders are to anoint him with oil. The anointing with oil represents the joy and happiness of this occasion.

In verse 15 we see the results of this activity:

The sick person is healed by the prayer of faith.

Any sins he may have committed are forgiven.

In light of what follows (vv. 16a, 19, 20), it seems likely that the key to understanding this section is the sin of the person who is sick. The sickness in view is a result of the discipline of the Lord for sin. This is why the elders are called by the sick person. He now desires to deal with his sin. James continues this subject in the following verses, giving special attention to the importance and power of prayer in verses 16-18.

Now let’s look at verse 5:16, connecting this to what James has just said in verses 14, 15. In effect, we see a summary of these two verses in the first part of verse 16. James deals with the two matters he just covered in verse 15, only in reverse order: sins and prayer.

The word confess (exomologisthe) is given as a command. This is the normal word for confess with a preposition meaning “out” (ek) on the front. Some take this to mean an open or full confession.

to one another – This would seem to have its immediate reference to the elders in verses 14,15. The acknowledgements of the specific sins which have led to the illness are part of the process of dealing with the sin. This is not because the elders have any power of forgiveness, but as spiritual leaders of the local body they are responsible for dealing with sin among the members (cf. Acts 20:28). This would also allow for the confessing of the sins to anyone who had been wronged by them.

The second command is to pray for one another. Again, in the context the reference is to the elders who are instructed to pray for the sick person who has called for them.

so that you may be healed – This phrase expresses the purpose of the confession and prayer. This is basically the same result as was expressed in verse 15. Again the context points to physical healing.

James now emphasizes the importance and effectiveness of prayer. The emphasis in this statement might be seen in the order it is given: “Much power has the prayer of a righteous man in its working.”

The word effective represents two words in the Greek text. The first word, polus, means “much”. The next word, ishcuo, means “have power,” “be competent,” “be able.” So we are talking about something with much power or very powerful.

A righteous man is one who has had his sins forgiven by faith in Christ. In James it probably carries the added idea of a life lived in conformity to the character of Christ. Again, in the immediate context, it would seem that the elders are being considered. However, righteousness would not be limited to elders.

can accomplish much – This translates a word which means “work,” “be at work,” “operate,” “be effective.”

What James says is that prayer is very powerful in what it is able to accomplish. This prayer must be offered by a righteous man – one who has been redeemed in Christ and is living his life in obedience to the Word of God.

To demonstrate the powerful working of prayer, James gives an example from the Old Testament.

Items for Discussion

What does righteous mean to you?

Can you be righteous and not believe in God?

Can you be righteous and not believe in Christ?

What, would the role of the Holy Spirit and Christ be in helping you lead a righteous life?

Discussion Challenge

• What is the role of a church in helping its members be righteous?

Psalm 19[ref]NIV New International Version Translations[/ref]
1 The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands. 2 Day after day they pour forth speech; night after night they display knowledge. 3 There is no speech or language where their voice is not heard. 4 Their voice goes out into all the earth, their words to the ends of the world. In the heavens he has pitched a tent for the sun, 5 which is like a bridegroom coming forth from his pavilion, like a champion rejoicing to run his course. 6 It rises at one end of the heavens and makes its circuit to the other; nothing is hidden from its heat. 7 The law of the LORD is perfect, reviving the soul. The statutes of the LORD are trustworthy, making wise the simple. 8 The precepts of the LORD are right, giving joy to the heart. The commands of the LORD are radiant, giving light to the eyes. 9 The fear of the LORD is pure, enduring forever. The ordinances of the LORD are sure and altogether righteous. 10 They are more precious than gold, than much pure gold; they are sweeter than honey, than honey from the comb. 11 By them is your servant warned; in keeping them there is great reward. 12 Who can discern his errors? Forgive my hidden faults. 13 Keep your servant also from willful sins; may they not rule over me. Then will I be blameless, innocent of great transgression. 14 May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, O LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer.

Background

This Psalm was written by King David, and addressed to the “director”, thought to be the musical director. David focused on the majesty of God and His handiwork as Creator, as well as on His direct revelation through Moses, referred to as His “Law”. In the first verses there are references to a message continually being preached by the “heavens”, containing knowledge and going out to the entire world. Paul quotes this Psalm in Romans 10:18, identifying that message as the saving Gospel, using it to show that the Gospel was always available to Israel.

Biblical Truths

God reveals himself through his world, through nature. Verse 1 and 2 mention the heavens, the day, night, etc. He says that they are telling of God’s glory, but then he adds in verse 3 that they do this without actual speech. Verse 4 shows us that natural revelation reaches every place on earth, therefore it reaches every person. The imagery in verse 5 is says that natural revelation is dominating and powerful. It cannot be ignored. All people have to respond to it. Romans 1:18 echoes that.

Verse 6 shows that no one escapes the sun. Even if you are blind and cannot see it, you still feel the heat. Although it has no voice (verse 3), people still experience it. And we are all led to ask the question, “How did it get there?” Notice how Ps 19 says the heavens are telling His glory. This is present tense for us. Special revelation, Scripture, has ceased, but the natural revelation continues. We can receive natural revelation fresh, each day.

Items for Discussion

• Can you think of how we receive natural revelation? Hints: Appreciation & Observation
• David also lists types of special revelation. Can you find them?
  • The Law of the Lord (7a)
    • This could be referring just to the Mosaic law, which to the Jew was the central part of Scripture, or this could refer to all of Scripture. The Word of God is perfect because it is directed toward the well-being of man. It gives us comfort and encouragement.
  • The Testimony of the Lord (7b)
    • Making wise the simple means it gives man a solid foundation and stability so that he is not easily led astray.
  • The Precepts of the Lord (8a)
  • The Commandment of the Lord (8b)
    • The precepts and the commandments refer to the precision and authority with which God addresses us. They revive and refresh us, encourage us, etc. And just like nothing is hidden from the sun in God’s natural revelation, God’s Word enlightens us and reveals evil.
  • The Fear of the Lord (9a)
    • The human response to God’s word. David is listing the attributes of the word of God..1
  • The Judgments of the Lord (9b)
    • God is fair. We often think that life is not fair. There is much injustice in the world, but it is a comfort to know that God is fair and will work it all out in the end.
• In verse 11 David says, “By them (the precepts and commandments) is Thy servant warned.” How does Scripture do this?
• Scripture warns us of our inherent evil – our sinfulness.
  • Scripture warns us of our condemnation and destination without God. It tells us what is coming in the future – judgment.
  • Scripture warns us of specific temptations and sins. It tells us what not to do.
  • Scripture warns us of our obligations. It tells us what we should do.
• So what is the benefit that David gives for doing all of this?(See 11b)
• There is peace and pleasure in obedience. No guilty conscience. When your conscience is bothering you, there is no place to hide and you are miserable. But if you have done right, then you can be at peace no matter what the circumstances.
• And what does David ask for?
• Acquit me of my hidden faults (12)
• Keep me from presumptuous sins (13)
• This is the attitude that I am above the laws of God. They don’t apply to me no matter what the Bible says. Nothing bad will happen to me. It is interesting that this is exactly what the Catholic Church was doing in Martin Luther’s day. They were selling indulgences (forgiveness papers) so that a person could go sin (on purpose) and then cash in his coupon and be forgiven. That was what started the Protestant reformation.

 

I John 1:5-7
5 This is the message we have heard from him and declare to you: God is light; in him there is no darkness at all. 6 If we claim to have fellowship with him yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live by the truth. 7 But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin.

Biblical Truths

In an effort to build confidence in God’s promise of salvation, John explains some essential truths about the nature of God, Jesus, and us.

Verse 5: Note that the message John is proclaiming is “from him.” John is saying that Christianity is not some private, esoteric enlightenment. Rather, it came directly from the God himself and is manifested completely in the incarnate “Word of life.” Just as it is the nature of fire to produce heat, so it is the nature of God to reveal himself. The message John proclaims: “God is light.” “Light,” used metaphorically, has two aspects:

Intellectual: For the Greek and Hebrew mind, light was often associated with truth, whereas darkness was associated with error (cf., Ps. 43:3; 119:105, 130; Mt. 4:13-16; Lk. 2:28-32; Jn. 1:4-9; 1 Tim. 6:16; 1 Jn. 2:8).

Ethical or moral: Light is also associated with purity and goodness, whereas darkness is associated with impurity and evil (cf., Is. 5:20; Eph. 5:8-11; Rom. 13:12-13; Jn. 3:19-21; 8:12; 12:46).

Verse 6: Beginning in Verse 6, John lays out 3 false claims and 3 divine responses. The three false claims concern:

1. False Claim
2. Consequence
3. God’s Solution

1:6 If we claim to have fellowship with him yet walk in the darkness

We lie and do not live by the truth.

1:7 But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin.

1:8 If we claim to be without sin

We deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us.

1:9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.

1:10 If we claim we have not sinned

We make him out to be a liar and his word has no place in our lives.

2:1 But if anybody does sin, we have one who speaks to the Father in our defense–Jesus Christ, the Righteous One.

Verse 7: To walk in the light is to be in the presence of God himself. It is a conscious, sustained effort (the Greek tense of “walk” is on-going) to be responsive in our behavior and attitude to God’s illuminating truth.

There are three benefits from “walking in the light:”

“Fellowship with one another”.

“The blood of Jesus . . . purifies us”

“from all [or “every”] sin”

Items for Discussion

• Can one can be righteous without doing righteousness?
  • The first false belief claims that sin does not affect our relationship with God. John speaks against the ideas that: God’s laws are not relevant to believers.
• In what way can the Church fail its members by modernizing?
  • In Verse 6 John is saying that we must come to God on his terms, and that those terms are non-negotiable. Christianity not only claims that God is holy, righteous, and morally pure, but that all who belong to him take sin seriously.
  • The good news of our faith is that we are not left to our own resources and ourselves. God has provided a solution to our problem of sin: The cross of Jesus! The Cross was not comfortable to Christ nor should our Church serve the comforts of its members.
• What does walking in the light mean to you?
• We are honest about who we are and about who God is. And, we deal decisively and finally with sin by availing ourselves to the continual benefits of the cross.

Discussion Challenge

• If you were setting goals for a Church, what would your top three goals be?