Category: Snapshots (Page 34 of 45)

Home Sweet Home: Homework

2 Samuel 7:10¹
And I will provide a place for my people Israel and will plant them so that they can have a home of their own and no longer be disturbed. Wicked people will not oppress them anymore, as they did at the beginning.

The book of 2 Samuel records the life of David as king. There are several accounts of events in 2 Samuel that are also in 1 Chronicles. Some of the accounts are very similar. But some of the accounts are different. The authors wrote these accounts for different reasons. The author of 1 and 2 Samuel wrote about the main events in the lives of Samuel, Saul and David. The author wrote this to record the history of the Israelites at that time. However, the author of 1 and 2 Chronicles wanted to emphasize how God had always helped the Israelites. In general, this author wrote only about the good things that happened. He wrote his account a long time after the events of 1 and 2 Samuel. He may have used different records. Sometimes the names of people and places are different. Some people had more than one name. Also, the names of places often changed over many years.

The books of 1 and 2 Samuel used to be one book. The writer wrote the book in the Hebrew language. The name of the book comes from the first important person in 1 Samuel. He was Samuel the prophet. But Samuel did not write the book. He died before the end of the book.

We do not know who wrote the book. The author lived after King Solomon had died in about 930 BC (930 years Before Christ). After Solomon died, the country of Israel divided into two countries. These two countries were Israel and Judah. The country of Judah included the tribes of Judah and Benjamin (see 1 Kings 12:1-24). In 1 and 2 Samuel the author often refers to Judah as a country.

In those days, the kings and leaders employed writers to write accounts of events in their country. The prophets also wrote accounts of events. 2 Samuel 1:18; 1 Kings 11:41; 14:19, 29; 1 Chronicles 27:24; 29:29 all refer to these writers and their books. The writer of 1 and 2 Samuel probably got most of his information from these accounts.

Biblical Truths³

The events of this chapter may have happened a long time after David became king. But the subject follows on from chapter 6 about the ark of the Lord. The writer uses the Hebrew word for ‘house’ in this chapter. This word has three different meanings. It refers to a building where people live. It also refers to a person’s family, in the present time and in the future. And it is another word for the temple.

In verse 1, David lived in his house (palace). In verse 2 and 4 he wanted to build a house (temple) for the Lord. But in verses 11 and 16 the Lord said that he would establish David’s house (royal family) to last always. David wanted to give honour to the *Lord. Instead, the *Lord gave honour, which would last always, to David and his family.

Items for Discussion

The Hebrew word used for house had three meanings: where we live, our home; our family; and our Church. How is your family similar to the physical place you call home?
With all of the turmoil found in our world, especially the Middle East, how would you interpret the meaning of this verse?
How is a person’s home like the Christian Church?
What are the common attributes of the perfect home?
How are these attributes common in where we live, in our families and in our Church?
If a home is filled with turmoil, how do you think the family is affected? The family’s faith?
Why would the stories of what a home is be found in a history of David?

Hebrews 10:25
25 not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.

Background⁴

Hebrews shows Christ as the end, foundation, body, and truth of the figures of the law, which of themselves were no virtue for the soul. The great truth set forth in this epistle is that Jesus of Nazareth is the true God. The unconverted Jews used many arguments to draw their converted brethren from the Christian faith. They represented the law of Moses as superior to the Christian dispensation, and spoke against everything connected with the Savior. The apostle, therefore, shows the superiority of Jesus of Nazareth, as the Son of God, and the benefits from his sufferings and death as the sacrifice for sin, so that the Christian religion is much more excellent and perfect than that of Moses. And the principal design seems to be, to bring the converted Hebrews forward in the knowledge of the gospel, and thus to establish them in the Christian faith, and to prevent their turning from it, against which they are earnestly warned. But while it contains many things suitable to the Hebrews of early times, it also contains many which can never cease to interest the church of God; for the knowledge of Jesus Christ is the very marrow and kernel of all the Scriptures. The ceremonial law is full of Christ, and all the gospel is full of Christ; the blessed lines of both Testaments meet in Him; and how they both agree and sweetly unite in Jesus Christ, is the chief object of the epistle to the Hebrews to discover.

Chapter 10: The insufficiency of sacrifices for taking away sin, The necessity and power of the sacrifice of Christ for that purpose. (1-18) An argument for holy boldness in the believer’s access to God through Jesus Christ, And for steadfastness in faith, and mutual love and duty. (19-25) The danger of apostasy. (26-31) The sufferings of believers, and encouragement to maintain their holy profession. (32-39)

Bible Truths

Matthew Henry writes that Christians ought to have a tender consideration and concern for one another; they should affectionately consider what their several wants, weaknesses, and temptations are; and they should do this, not to reproach one another, to provoke one another not to anger, but to love and good works, calling upon themselves and one another to love God and Christ more, to love duty and holiness more, to love their brethren in Christ more, and to do all the good offices of Christian affection both to the bodies and the souls of each other. A good example given to others is the best and most effectual provocation to love and good works.

Items for Discussion

What benefits are gained when a body of believers meets together?
Why is personal growth so much faster and better when others are present?
How is the average home different than the Church? Should there be any differences?
How does a home influence the faith of the family?
What are the rolls of the family members: mother, father and children in making a home a home?
What is the work involved in making sure a home is a place for faith to flourish?
Can peaceful homes and families result from a community or church filled with turmoil?

Discussion Challenge

How, in a world of turmoil, can the Church become the “home” that Samuel believes God wants for all of us?

1
NIV New International Version Translations
2
http://www.easyenglish.info/bible-commentary/2samuel-lbw.htm
3
http://www.easyenglish.info/bible-commentary/2samuel-lbw.htm
4
http://www.christnotes.org/commentary.php?com=mhc&b=58&c=0

Home Sweet Home: Home Beautiful

Zephaniah 3:19¹
19 At that time I will deal with all who oppressed you. I will rescue the lame; I will gather the exiles. I will give them praise and honor in every land where they have suffered shame. 20 At that time I will gather you; at that time I will bring you home. I will give you honor and praise among all the peoples of the earth when I restore your fortunes before your very eyes,” says the LORD.

Background²

This is the only time in the prophetic books that an author traces his genealogy. He mentions a Hezekiah. Why would he go back and stop at Hezekiah if this is not the king Hezekiah? (One of the godly kings.) Therefore, Zephaniah was probably in the royal family and lived in Jerusalem.

So who was King Hezekiah? Hezekiah was supposed to die, but he pleaded with God to let him live a little longer. God granted him his request and it was during the 15 year extension of his life that Manasseh was born. He was the worst king in Judah’s history. The things he promoted in Judah resulted in the nation declining past the point of no return and God pronouncing certain judgment. Although Manasseh repented at the end of his life, his son, Amon, continued the idolatry and decline. Josiah followed Amon and was was a godly king. He brought about spiritual revival, but he could not stop the judgment of God. He could only postpone it. When he died, the people went back to their wicked ways because his reforms were more than likely forced on them – (by edict of the king) – and not from their hearts.

Zephaniah is a prophet of judgment. He prophecies of the imminent devastation of the land of Judah and the destruction of Jerusalem because of Judah’s injustice, hypocrisy and idolatry (chap. 1). This prophecy was fulfilled in 586 BC. This is why the faithful remnant is called to seek Jehovah when the nations near and far will feel Jehovah’s vengeance (chap. 2). The actual corrupted state of things stands in contrast to the future blessings of the people as described in chapter 3. The whole book makes it clear that Zephaniah looks far ahead of the imminent destruction of Jerusalem on to that dreadful day of Jehovah, the day of His anger and judgment, upon which however will follow the blessing of the millennial reign of peace.

Biblical Truths³

After the promises of taking away sin, follow promises of taking away trouble. When the cause is removed, the effect will cease. What makes a people holy, will make them happy. The precious promises made to the purified people, were to have full accomplishment in the gospel. These verses appear chiefly to relate to the future conversion and restoration of Israel, and the glorious times which are to follow. They show the abundant peace, comfort, and prosperity of the church, in the happy times yet to come. He will save; he will be Jesus; he will answer the name, for he will save his people from their sins. Before the glorious times foretold, believers would be sorrowful, and objects of reproach. But the Lord will save the weakest believer, and cause true Christians to be greatly honored where they had been treated with contempt. One act of mercy and grace shall serve, both to gather Israel out of their dispersions and to lead them to their own land. Then will God’s Israel be made a name and a praise to eternity. The events alone can fully answer the language of this prophecy. Many are the troubles of the righteous, but they may rejoice in God’s love. Surely our hearts should honor the Lord, and rejoice in him, when we hear such words of condescension and grace. If now kept from his ordinances, it is our trial and grief; but in due time we shall be gathered into his temple above. The glory and happiness of the believer will be perfect, unchangeable, and eternal, when he is freed from earthly sorrows, and brought to heavenly bliss.

Items for Discussion

Is God’s promise of restoration meant for this world or the next?
How do you think God will deal with the oppressors?
How do you interpret the rescue of the lame?
Who are the exiles?
How might they be gathered?
What kind of honor is God promising?

Philippians 1:3-6
3 I thank my God every time I remember you. 4 In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy 5 because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, 6 being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.

Background

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

In chapter one, we find that Paul wanted to thank the Christians at Philippi for the gifts that they had sent him by Epaphroditus.

Bible Truths

Verse 3 Paul emphasizes his personal faith by saying ‘my’ God. Some translations say that Paul thanks God because the Christians at Philippi think about him. Verses 3 and 5 mean that he thanks God for two things. He thanks God for the gift of money. But he also thanks God for their spiritual help as they pray for him. When Paul was in Philippi, several of them helped him. They helped him as he told people the good news about Jesus (4:3).

Verse 4 The word ‘joy’ is typical of this letter and Paul uses it many times. Although Paul is in prison, he still has very much joy.

Verse 6 Paul had brought the gospel to Philippi. But he still realized that it was God’s work. He knew that God would continue his grace to the Christians at Philippi. What God has begun, he will complete. The ‘day of Christ Jesus’ is the day when Jesus comes again.

Items for Discussion

How would the Church of Christ survive without the generosity of people?
Do you think that financial support helps the people who give or the people who get more?
Have you ever experienced Paul’s Joy? He is in prison and joyful.
What is the hope to be found in Paul’s joy?
Can Paul’s joy and his hope be found in one’s home? How?
What happens when it is missing?

Discussion Challenge

How can Paul’s joy be brought forth in every gathering of believers?

1
NIV New International Version Translations
2
http://bible.org/seriespage/zephaniah
3
http://www.christnotes.org/commentary.php?b=36&c=3&com=mhc

Home Sweet Home: The Steadfast Home

Isaiah 26:1-3¹
1 In that day this song will be sung in the land of Judah: We have a strong city; God makes salvation its walls and ramparts. 2 Open the gates that the righteous nation may enter, the nation that keeps faith. 3 You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.

Background²

Isaiah prophesied in the reigns of Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah. He has been well called the evangelical prophet, on account of his numerous and full prophesies concerning the coming and character, the ministry and preaching, the sufferings and death of the Messiah, and the extent and continuance of his kingdom. Under the veil of the deliverance from Babylon, Isaiah points to a much greater deliverance, which was to be effected by the Messiah; and seldom does he mention the one, without alluding at the same time to the other; nay, he is often so much enraptured with the prospect of the more distant deliverance, as to lose sight of that which was nearer, and to dwell on the Messiah’s person, office, character, and kingdom.

Biblical Truths³

“In that day,” seems to mean when the New Testament Babylon shall be leveled with the ground. The unchangeable promise and covenant of the Lord are the walls of the church of God. The gates of this city shall be open. Let sinners then be encouraged to join to the Lord. Thou wilt keep him in peace; in perfect peace, inward peace, outward peace, peace with God, peace of conscience, peace at all times, in all events. Trust in the Lord for that peace, that portion, which will be forever. Whatever we trust to the world for, it will last only for a moment; but those who trust in God shall not only find in him, but shall receive from him, strength that will carry them to that blessedness which is forever. Let us then acknowledge him in all our ways, and rely on him in all trials.

Items for Discussion

What does “steadfast” mean to you?⁴
- fixed in intensity or direction; steady
- unwavering or determined in purpose, loyalty, etc. steadfast resolve
How is the characteristics of a steadfast God good for mankind and how are they bad for mankind?
Why do you think Isaiah is calling on the “entire nation” to be faithful to God?
What happens to the nation (the people) when some in a nation are faithful and some are not?
Isaiah mentions (perfect peace, keeping faith and steadfast minds – Why do you think these three attributes are interlinked?
What are the kinds of peace God is promising?

2 PETER 3:8-13
8 But do not forget this one thing, dear friends: With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day. 9 The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance. 10 But the day of the Lord will come like a thief. The heavens will disappear with a roar; the elements will be destroyed by fire, and the earth and everything done in it will be laid bare. 11 Since everything will be destroyed in this way, what kind of people ought you to be? You ought to live holy and godly lives 12 as you look forward to the day of God and speed its coming. That day will bring about the destruction of the heavens by fire, and the elements will melt in the heat. 13 But in keeping with his promise we are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth, where righteousness dwells.

Background⁵

The Apostle Peter was in Rome when he wrote this letter. He expected to die soon. Peter died on a cross about 35 years after Christ’s death. At that time Nero, who was the ruler in Rome, was killing Christians. Peter did not tell us who he was sending this letter to. In 3:1, he referred to this letter as his ‘second letter’. We believe that 1 Peter was his first letter to these readers. So, the readers of both letters were probably the same people. They were Christians who lived in Turkey. Peter probably wrote this letter to both Jews and Gentiles who had become Christians.

Peter wrote this letter for three reasons:

He wanted the people to be stronger Christians.
He wanted to warn them about false teachers. He also wanted to remind them about the true Christian beliefs.
He emphasized that Jesus Christ will return. Then God will judge the wicked. So, Christians must be ready for that day.

Bible Truths{ref]http://www.easyenglish.info/bible-commentary/2peter-lbw.htm[/mfn]

Verse 8: In verse 5, the false teachers did not remember what God had done in the past. But in verse 8, Peter did not want his ‘dear friends’ to forget what God had done. The Lord’s time is not the same as time in this world. To the Lord, 1000 years in this world may be like a day (Psalm 90:4). This is often hard for people to understand. But God is the ruler of time. A person may think that a period is a very long time. But it may be a very short time to God. People like things to happen quickly. But sometimes nothing seems to happen. This does not mean that God has forgotten.

Verse 9: God will always keep his promises. Many people thought that Jesus should have returned already. But Peter explained that God is willing to wait. He is not slow, as people may think. But he is patient. God loves everyone. He sent Jesus to free people from their sins (John 3:16). God is waiting because he does not want anyone to die. He ‘desires that all people… will come to know the truth about Jesus’ (1 Timothy 2:4). God wants all people to turn back from their wrong ways. He wants to give people more time to obey him.

Verse 10: Jesus will not continue to wait forever. Jesus said that people would not know when would return (Luke 12:39-40). People do not expect a thief to come suddenly to their house in the middle of the night. In a similar way, Jesus will suddenly return to this world. God will not give people any more time to obey him. Instead, Jesus will come to judge them. When Jesus comes, the sky will disappear with a fierce roar. Fire will burn up the earth and everything on it.

Verse 11: Since the present world will end like this, Christians must live holy lives. People who do not know God say, ‘Eat and drink. Be happy’ (Luke 12:19). They just want to enjoy themselves now. But God will punish people who do not obey him (chapter 2). So, Peter encouraged the Christians to be holy (see also 1 Peter 1:15-16). ‘Holy’ means to be separate from evil things and to belong to God. When Jesus returns he will reward Christians (2 Peter 1:10-11 and 1 Peter 1:3-5).

Verse 12: Peter did not want to frighten Christians. He repeated here what he spoke about in verse 10. Christians should eagerly expect the day when Jesus returns to this world. Then they will encourage that day to arrive. It will come as people pray ‘We want your kingdom to come’. And it will come as Christians tell the good news about Jesus to other people (Matthew 24:14). It will come as Christians obey God.

Verse 13: Christians can expect with joy what God has promised after his judgment. Peter uses words from Isaiah 65:17 when he wrote about ‘a new heaven and a new earth’. Everyone will obey God. No wicked people will live there. The false teachers will have no place there. Sin will never spoil anything again. It will be a wonderful place to live.

Items for Discussion

What goes through your mind when you think about the day Christ will come back?
Since we don’t know when, how is it Peter wants us to prepare?
How would you describe a holy and godly life in our world today?
Why, if we are saved by Christ’s death and forgiven for our sins, is Peter telling us we still need to be repentant and change our lives?
Why do you think there is such a preoccupation from some in our world about its end?
- We don’t know when it will come
- We will all die anyway and probably die before the end of our world
Christ’s return is clearly described as a time of separation, those who will reside in God’s kingdom forever and those who will not. What is the best part of living where “righteousness dwells?”

Discussion Challenge

How can a Christian prepare themselves and others for the “thief in the night?”

1
NIV New International Version Translations
2
http://www.christnotes.org/commentary.php?com=mhc&b=23&c=0
3
http://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/matthew-henry-concise/isaiah/26.html
4
http://www.thefreedictionary.com/steadfast
5
http://www.easyenglish.info/bible-commentary/2peter-lbw.htm

There is a Big Difference Between Knowing and Doing

Psalm 45:10-17¹
10 Listen, daughter, and pay careful attention: Forget your people and your father’s house. 11 Let the king be enthralled by your beauty; honor him, for he is your lord. 12 The city of Tyre will come with a gift, people of wealth will seek your favor. 13 All glorious is the princess within her chamber; her gown is interwoven with gold. 14 In embroidered garments she is led to the king; her virgin companions follow her—those brought to be with her. 15 Led in with joy and gladness, they enter the palace of the king. 16 Your sons will take the place of your fathers; you will make them princes throughout the land. 17 I will perpetuate your memory through all generations; therefore the nations will praise you for ever and ever.

Background²

The psalmist writes an ode for a royal wedding. In vv. 2-5, he lists the king’s admirable qualities: he is “most handsome”, full of God’s grace, splendid (“glory”, v. 3), a conqueror “for the cause of truth” (v. 4) and of justice. “Your throne …” (v. 6) probably speaks of God rather than of the king (although the word translated “God” can mean superhuman being, so it may say the king is superior to all other humans). God has made the king greater than the kings of other nations (v. 7). His robes are perfumed with fragrance: with “myrrh” (v. 8, an aromatic gum from Arabia, Ethiopia or India), “aloes” (a fragrant wood) and “cassia” (a tree native to India and the Far East). Stringed instruments play music in his palace which is decorated with “ivory”. The ladies of the court include daughters of fellow kings (v. 9). The bride’s dress is ornamented with gold from Arabia or east Africa (“Ophir”). She is a foreigner, perhaps from “Tyre” (v. 12). She is to forget her people, to please and honor the king, her master. The rich seek her favor with expensive gifts. A glorious sight (v. 13), she enters, followed by bridesmaids (v. 14); it is a joyous occasion. May the king have male heirs who will be “princes” (v. 16, rulers over all peoples); may his reign be celebrated for ages; may the peoples praise him forever.

Biblical Truths³

If we desire to share these blessings, we must hearken to Christ’s word. We must forget our carnal and sinful attachments and pursuits. He must be our Lord as well as our Savior; all idols must be thrown away, that we may give him our whole heart. And here is good encouragement, thus to break off from former alliances. The beauty of holiness, both on the church and on particular believers, is, in the sight of Christ, of great price, and very amiable. The work of grace is the workmanship of the Spirit, it is the image of Christ upon the soul, a partaking of the Divine nature. It is clear of all sin, there is none in it, nor any comes from it. There is nothing glorious in the old man or corrupt nature; but in the new man, or work of grace upon the soul, everything is glorious. The robe of Christ’s righteousness, which he has wrought out for his church, the Father imputes unto her, and bestows upon her. None are brought to Christ, but those whom the Father brings.

This notes the conversion of souls to him. The robe of righteousness, and garments of salvation, the change of raiment Christ has put upon her. Such as strictly cleave to Christ, loving him in singleness of heart, are companions of the bride, who partake of the very same grace, enjoy the same privileges, and share in one common salvation. These, every one, shall be brought to the King; not one lost or left behind. Instead of the Old Testament church, there shall be a New Testament church, a Gentile church. In the believing hope of our everlasting happiness in the other world, let us always keep up the remembrance of Christ, as our only way thither; and transmit the remembrance of him to succeeding generations, that his name may endure forever.

Items for Discussion

In what ways are accepting Christ as our Savior similar to a bride at a wedding?
How might a royal wedding differ from an ordinary one?
Why would the Psalmist be using a royal wedding as a basis for comparison rather than an ordinary wedding?
How are the many characters mentioned in this Psalm acting? Look at the king; the bride; the town where they are being married; and the heirs to be?
What is God’s promise and why is this important to us?

Romans 7:14-25
14 We know that the law is spiritual; but I am unspiritual, sold as a slave to sin. 15 I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do. 16 And if I do what I do not want to do, I agree that the law is good. 17 As it is, it is no longer I myself who do it, but it is sin living in me.

Background

The Book of Romans, often shortened to Romans, is the sixth book in the New Testament. Biblical scholars agree that it was composed by the Apostle Paul to explain that Salvation is offered through the Gospel of Jesus Christ. It is by far the longest of the Pauline epistles, and is considered his “most important theological legacy”.

Paul addresses the faithfulness of God to Israel, where he says that God has been faithful to His promise. Paul hopes that all of Israel will come to realize the truth vv. 9:1–5 since he himself was also an Israelite vv. 11:1 and had in the past been a persecutor of Early Christians. In Romans 9–11, Paul talks about how the nation of Israel has been cast away, and the conditions under which Israel will be God’s chosen nation again: when the Israel returns to its faith, sets aside its unbelief.

Bible Truths⁴

Verses 14-25: Paul had used ‘I’ and ‘me’ in verses 7-13. He spoke there about the past. In verses 14-25, he speaks in the present tense. It is clear that he is describing his own struggles with sin. Most people have had such an experience. So Paul speaks for everyone, not just for himself.

There are two opinions about when this struggle took place:

Maybe Paul was writing about his experiences before he became a Christian. At that time, Paul wanted to please God. So Paul tried to obey God’s law. Paul was very sincere. But he discovered that he was unable to obey God’s law completely. Paul did not want to sin. But sin controlled his human nature. So Paul was even doing things that he knew to be wrong (verses 18-20). This was a terrible struggle for Paul. Paul loved God’s law (verse 22). But Paul could not obey it. So he made himself rules in his mind (verse 23). But he could not even obey those rules because the control (law) of sin was too powerful for him. So Paul felt miserable and desperate. He needed someone to rescue him from sin (verse 24). At last, he realized that he could not save himself by his own efforts. And that is when Christ changed his life (verse 25; Acts 9:1-22; Galatians 1:11-17).
Or maybe Paul was writing as a Christian. He said that he loved the law (verse 22). Someone who does not believe probably would not say this. But a Christian is not ‘a slave to sin’ (verse 25; Romans 6:17-18). And a Christian should not say, ‘nothing good lives in me’ (verse 18). In fact, God’s Holy Spirit lives in a Christian (1 Corinthians 6:19). However, many people still believe that Paul was writing here about his struggles as a Christian. Paul wondered how he could show his love for God in actions. The Christian life is not easy. There is a struggle against sin. Paul says in Philippians (3:12-14) that he is not perfect. He is like someone who is running a race. He has to try very hard to reach the goal. Paul urges Timothy to ‘fight’ for his faith. If this opinion is correct, Paul’s cry in verse 24 was not a cry of despair. His cry expresses his great desire to be free from his weak human nature. He wants to become more holy.

Paul clearly shows us that human knowledge is not enough. We can know what is wrong. We may decide to do what is right. But our power to carry out our decision is weak. Peter said that he would never deny Christ. But he failed soon afterwards. We cannot live in a manner that pleases God by our own efforts. Paul emphasized this in Galatians 3:3. We can only become Christians by the power of God’s Holy Spirit. And after we have become Christians, we can only please God by the power of his Holy Spirit.

Verse 23: Paul uses another military description. A law was fighting a war against his mind. The law of his human nature was making him a prisoner of the law of sin. He struggled to obey his conscience. He knew what was right. But he could not do right things. His cry in verse 24 is a cry of despair.

Verse 24 Paul is grateful that he can win the victory over his sinful human nature because of Jesus Christ. Paul will explain in chapter 8 how the Holy Spirit can give to Christians the power to live a holy life.

Verse 25 In verse 25 Paul emphasizes again his moral struggle, which he described in verses 14-24. And the words lead naturally to Romans 8:1, which begins with the word ‘Therefore’.

Items for Discussion

What might the differences be between people that love sin and those that hate it? (keep in mind, we are all sinners)
Why is it that we cannot, with human power, overcome sin?
What is the hope that each Christian should carry from these verses?
Why does every Christian need the Holy Spirit’s help if they are to have any hope for overcoming sin?
If sin is so hard to stop, why should we keep on trying?
Why is it that human knowledge and intellect is not sufficient to overcome sinful behavior?
Why should a Christian have hope?

Discussion Challenge

How do we spread the words of hope to those we love?

1
NIV New International Version Translations
2
http://montreal.anglican.org/comments/archive/zanldm.shtml
3
http://www.biblegateway.com/resources/commentaries/Matthew-Henry/Ps/Psalms-45-10-17
4
http://www.easyenglish.info/bible-commentary/romans-lbw.htm

Hearing the Word is Not Enough

Psalm 119:105-112¹
105 Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path. 106 I have taken an oath and confirmed it, that I will follow your righteous laws. 107 I have suffered much; preserve my life, LORD, according to your word. 108 Accept, LORD, the willing praise of my mouth, and teach me your laws. 109 Though I constantly take my life in my hands, I will not forget your law. 110 The wicked have set a snare for me, but I have not strayed from your precepts. 111 Your statutes are my heritage forever; they are the joy of my heart. 112 My heart is set on keeping your decrees to the very end.

Background²

The general scope and design of this psalm is to magnify the Divine law, and make it honorable. There are ten words by which Divine revelation is called in this psalm, and each expresses what God expects from us, and what we may expect from him: 1. God’s law; this is enacted by him as our Sovereign. 2. His way; this is the rule of his providence. 3. His testimonies; they are solemnly declared to the world. 4. His commandments; given with authority. 5. His precepts; not left as indifferent matters to us. 6. His word, or saying; it is the declaration of his mind. 7. His judgments; framed in infinite wisdom. 8. His righteousness; it is the rule and standard of what is right. 9. His statutes; they are always binding. 10. His truth or faithfulness; it is eternal truth, it shall endure forever.

Biblical Truths³

The word of God directs us in our work and way, and a dark place indeed the world would be without it. The commandment is a lamp kept burning with the oil of the Spirit, as a light to direct us in the choice of our way, and the steps we take in that way. The keeping of God’s commands here meant, was that of a sinner under a dispensation of mercy, of a believer having part in the covenant of grace. The psalmist is often afflicted; but with longing desires to become more holy, offers up daily prayers for quickening grace. We cannot offer anything to God, that he will accept but what he is pleased to teach us to do. To have our soul or life continually in our hands, implies constant danger of life; yet he did not forget God’s promises nor his precepts. Numberless are the snares laid by the wicked; and happy is that servant of God, whom they have not caused to err from his Master’s precepts. Heavenly treasures are a heritage forever; all the saints accept them as such, therefore they can be content with little of this world. We must look for comfort only in the way of duty, and that duty must be done. A good man, by the grace of God, brings his heart to his work, then it is done well.

Items for Discussion

Why is the imagery of a lamp lighting our life’s path appropriate when we think about God’s Word?
What is the psalmist asking of God?
God’s Word seems hard, even harsh, at times – why is it so important to approach God’s commandments with a joyful heart?
In verse 110, how would you describe the snares of the wicked as something that could cause a person to stray from following God’s commands?

Matthew 13:1-9 & 18-23
1 That same day Jesus went out of the house and sat by the lake. 2 Such large crowds gathered around him that he got into a boat and sat in it, while all the people stood on the shore. 3 Then he told them many things in parables, saying: “A farmer went out to sow his seed. 4 As he was scattering the seed, some fell along the path, and the birds came and ate it up. 5 Some fell on rocky places, where it did not have much soil. It sprang up quickly, because the soil was shallow. 6 But when the sun came up, the plants were scorched, and they withered because they had no root. 7 Other seed fell among thorns, which grew up and choked the plants. 8 Still other seed fell on good soil, where it produced a crop—a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown. 9 Whoever has ears, let them hear.”

18 “Listen then to what the parable of the sower means: 19 When anyone hears the message about the kingdom and does not understand it, the evil one comes and snatches away what was sown in their heart. This is the seed sown along the path. 20 The seed falling on rocky ground refers to someone who hears the word and at once receives it with joy. 21 But since they have no root, they last only a short time. When trouble or persecution comes because of the word, they quickly fall away. 22 The seed falling among the thorns refers to someone who hears the word, but the worries of this life and the deceitfulness of wealth choke the word, making it unfruitful. 23 But the seed falling on good soil refers to someone who hears the word and understands it. This is the one who produces a crop, yielding a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown.”

Background⁴

Matthew was a Jewish Christian who wrote especially for Jews. This book contains much of what Jesus taught. Matthew collected taxes, but he became one of the Apostles. Matthew used much of what Mark wrote.

In chapter 13 we find many of the parables from Christ’s teaching. He teaches the multitudes out of a ship, they standing on the shore, 1, 2. The parable of the sower, 3-9. He gives his reasons for speaking in parables, 10-17. Explains the parable of the sower, 18-23. Parable of the tares and the wheat, 24- 30. Of the grain of mustard seed, 31, 32. Of the leaven, 33. The prophecy fulfilled by this mode of teaching, 34, 35. He explains the parable of the tares and the wheat, 36-43. Parable of the treasure hid in a field, 44. Of the pearl- merchant, 45, 46. Of the dragnet, 47-50. His application of the whole, 51, 52. He teaches in his own country, and his neighbors take offense, 53-56. Our Lord’s observations on this, 57. He works no miracle among them because of their unbelief. 58.

Bible Truths

Verses 1-2 The great crowds would be able to hear Jesus clearly as he spoke from the boat. A farmer may have been working near to them.

Verse 3 A farmer scattered the seeds by hand.

Verse 4 People walked on the paths and this made them very hard. So the seeds would lie on top and the birds could quickly eat these seeds.

Verses 5-6 In many places, there was only a very thin amount of earth on top of the rocks in that country. The seeds would begin to grow quickly. But their roots could not grow properly because of the rock. So the plant would soon die in the hot sun.

Verse 7 There were already weeds in this ground. Weeds grow quicker and use up all the space. The good seeds began to grow, but the light could not get to the young plants. So the plants could not last.

Verse 8 The good ground had plenty of earth. So the seeds could grow deep roots and find water. There were no weeds and the plants could continue to grow strongly. So there was a good harvest.

Verse 9 Jesus meant that people should think about this story. They should try to understand the extra meaning that he teaches.

Verse 18-19 Some people hear the message, but they forget it immediately. A person may be very proud of his own opinions. He will not listen carefully. He has refused to obey God for a long time. He is like a hard path. God’s word cannot even begin to make a change in his life.

Verses 20-21 People may be eager to believe God’s message at first. But they have not thought seriously about the results. So they do not believe very strongly. They are like the thin soil on top of the rock that does not let the plants’ roots grow. These people do not understand that they may suffer. They will have the same problems as people who do not believe the message. Family difficulties, illness or other troubles may affect them. Also, people may insult and attack them because they have believed the message. But because they only believe a little, they do not last. Their belief dies like the plant in the hot sun.

Verse 22 Some people desire to possess money or goods. They think about them very often. They work very hard to earn a lot of money. Some people have many responsibilities and interests, which take much time. Then these things push out the Christian life. So those people become too busy to pray. There is no time for them to study the Bible. God is no longer first in their lives. They do not realize what they are doing.

Verse 23. There are people like the good ground that produces a crop. They are never too proud or too busy to listen to God’s message. They believe it, even when they expect trouble. They realize what might happen to them as a result. They believe the message. So they change the way that they live. Also, they tell the message about God’s rule to many other people. Isaiah said long ago that God’s word would be successful (Isaiah 55:10-11). Disciples should ‘sow’ God’s message. There will certainly be a ‘harvest’ of people who believe it. They will understand and believe the message about Jesus.

Items for Discussion

What is a parable?
Why are parables so effective for teaching?
- Consider how you would alter someone’s emotions, their knowledge and their beliefs
Jesus gives us a parable teaching us that not all people accept the Word of God (His Teachings) – Why do you think this is true?
Lack of discernment and understanding carry a big risk – How do you overcome these when learning God’s Word?
What is “rocky soil?” In other words, what kind of person would hear the Word of God joyfully but fail to respond to it?
What is “good soil?” In other words, what does it take in a person to allow the Word of God to take root?
How would “life’s worries” choke out the benefits of hearing and learning God’s Word?

Discussion Challenge

How can we use our own parables for teaching our children, families and friends about God?

1
NIV New International Version Translations
2
http://www.christnotes.org/commentary.php?com=mhc&b=19&c=119
3
http://www.christnotes.org/commentary.php?com=mhc&b=19&c=119
4
http://www.godrules.net/library/clarke/clarkemat13.htm

Harvest Time

Psalm 139:1-22¹
1 You have searched me, LORD, and you know me. 2 You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar. 3 You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways. 4 Before a word is on my tongue you, LORD, know it completely. 5 You hem me in behind and before, and you lay your hand upon me. 6 Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, too lofty for me to attain. 7 Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? 8 If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there. 9 If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, 10 even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast. 11 If I say, “Surely the darkness will hide me and the light become night around me,” 12 even the darkness will not be dark to you; the night will shine like the day, for darkness is as light to you. 13 For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. 14 I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. 15 My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place, when I was woven together in the depths of the earth. 16 Your eyes saw my unformed body; all the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be. 17 How precious to me are your thoughts, God! How vast is the sum of them! 18 Were I to count them, they would outnumber the grains of sand—when I awake, I am still with you. 19 If only you, God, would slay the wicked! Away from me, you who are bloodthirsty! 20 They speak of you with evil intent; your adversaries misuse your name. 21 Do I not hate those who hate you, LORD, and abhor those who are in rebellion against you? 22 I have nothing but hatred for them; I count them my enemies.

Background²

This is one of the most notable of the sacred hymns. It sings the omniscience and omnipresence of God, inferring from these the overthrow of the powers of wickedness, since he who sees and hears the abominable deeds and words of the rebellious will surely deal with them according to his justice. The brightness of this Psalm is like unto a sapphire stone, or Ezekiel’s “terrible crystal”; it flames out with such flashes of light as to turn night into day. Like a Pharos, this holy song casts a clear light even to the uttermost parts of the sea, and warns us against that practical atheism which ignores the presence of God, and so makes shipwreck of the soul.

It is titled “To the Chief Musician.” The last time this title occurred was in Ps 109:1-31. This sacred song is worthy of the most excellent of the singers, and is fitly dedicated to the leader of the Temple Psalmody, that he might set it to music, and see that it was devoutly sung in the solemn worship of the Most High. A Psalm of David. It bears the image and superscription of King David, and could have come from no other mint than that of the son of Jesse. Of course the critics take this composition away from David, on account of certain Aramaic expressions in it. We believe that upon the principles of criticism now in vogue it would be extremely easy to prove that Milton did not write Paradise Lost. We have yet to learn that David could not have used expressions belonging to “the language of the patriarchal ancestral house.” Who knows how much of the antique speech may have been purposely retained among those nobler minds who rejoiced in remembering the descent of their race? Knowing to what wild inferences the critics have run in other matters, we have lost nearly all faith in them, and prefer to believe David to be the author of this Psalm, from internal evidences of style and matter, rather than to accept the determination of men whose modes of judgment are manifestly unreliable.

Biblical Truths

The psalmist, David, seems to sum it up in a very straightforward way: God knows all things. (1-6) He is everywhere present. (7-16) David hates to sin, and desires to be led aright. (17-24)

Items for Discussion

What are the elements that David uses to describe his argument that it is foolish to ignore or be against God?
Why is David’s argument a good one?
What contemporary arguments of society are addressed in this psalm?
What conclusions can you draw about the character of God?

Matthew 13:24-30 & 36-43
24 Jesus told them another parable: “The kingdom of heaven is like a man who sowed good seed in his field. 25 But while everyone was sleeping, his enemy came and sowed weeds among the wheat, and went away. 26 When the wheat sprouted and formed heads, then the weeds also appeared. 27 “The owner’s servants came to him and said, ‘Sir, didn’t you sow good seed in your field? Where then did the weeds come from?’ 28 “‘An enemy did this,’ he replied. “The servants asked him, ‘Do you want us to go and pull them up?’ 29 “‘No,’ he answered, ‘because while you are pulling the weeds, you may uproot the wheat with them. 30 Let both grow together until the harvest. At that time I will tell the harvesters: First collect the weeds and tie them in bundles to be burned; then gather the wheat and bring it into my barn.’”

36 Then he left the crowd and went into the house. His disciples came to him and said, “Explain to us the parable of the weeds in the field.” 37 He answered, “The one who sowed the good seed is the Son of Man. 38 The field is the world, and the good seed stands for the people of the kingdom. The weeds are the people of the evil one, 39 and the enemy who sows them is the devil. The harvest is the end of the age, and the harvesters are angels. 40 “As the weeds are pulled up and burned in the fire, so it will be at the end of the age. 41 The Son of Man will send out his angels, and they will weed out of his kingdom everything that causes sin and all who do evil. 42 They will throw them into the blazing furnace, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. 43 Then the righteous will shine like the sun in the kingdom of their Father. Whoever has ears, let them hear.

Background³

Bible Truths⁴

In the agricultural society of Christ’s time, many farmers depended on the quality of their crops. An enemy sowing weeds would have sabotaged a business. The tares in the parable were likely darnel because that weed, until mature, appears as wheat. Without modern weed killers, what would a wise farmer do in such a dilemma? Instead of tearing out the wheat with the tares, the landowner in this parable wisely waited until the harvest. After harvesting the whole field, the tares could be separated and burned. The wheat would be saved in the barn.

In the explanation of parable, Christ declares that He Himself is the sower. He spreads His redeemed seed, true believers, in the field of the world. Through His grace, these Christians bear the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-24). Their presence on earth is the reason the “kingdom of heaven” is like the field of the world. When Jesus said, “The kingdom of heaven is at hand” (Matthew 4:17; Mark 3:2), He meant the spiritual realm which exists on earth side by side with the realm of the evil one (1 John 5:19). When the kingdom of heaven comes to its fruition, heaven will be a reality and there will be no “weeds” among the “wheat.” But for now, both good and bad seeds mature in the world.

The enemy in the parable is Satan. In opposition to Jesus Christ, the devil tries to destroy Christ’s work by placing false believers and teachers in the world who lead many astray. One has only to look at the latest televangelist scandal to know the world is filled with professing “Christians” whose ungodly actions bring reproach on the name of Christ. But we are not to pursue such people in an effort to destroy them. For one thing, we don’t know if immature and innocent believers might be injured by our efforts. Further, one has only to look at the Spanish Inquisition, the Crusades, and the reign of “Bloody Mary” in England to see the results of men taking upon themselves the responsibility of separating true believers from false, a task reserved for God alone. Instead of requiring these false believers to be rooted out of the world, and possibly hurting immature believers in the process, Christ allows them to remain until His return. At that time, angels will separate the true from false believers.

In addition, we are not to take it upon ourselves to uproot unbelievers because the difference between true and false believers isn’t always obvious. Tares, especially in the early stages of growth, resemble wheat. Likewise, a false believer may resemble a true believer. In Matthew 7:22, Jesus warned that many profess faith but do not know Him. Thus, each person should examine his or her own relationship with Christ (2 Corinthians 13:5) and work to make that relationship strong.

Items for Discussion

Do these verses concern you and, if so, in what ways?
Why do you think that so many people ignore the Christian understanding that there will be “some type of separating” that will accompany an end time?
Is it easy to distinguish between children of God and children of Satan?
How did the owner’s servant recognize the weeds?
At what stage does it become easier to distinguish between the wheat and the tares?⁵
What should be the basis of our assurance of salvation?
Even if one recognizes the weeds, what is the danger in trying to pull them out?
What is the application of the concept of not pulling them up but letting them grow together?

Discussion Challenge

How does a church safely exist in today’s world filled with both “wheat and tares?”

1
NIV New International Version Translations
2
http://www.spurgeon.org/treasury/ps139.htm
3
http://www.godrules.net/library/clarke/clarkemat13.htm
4
http://www.gotquestions.org/parable-wheat-tares.html
5
Matt 7:16 “By their fruit you will recognize them. Do people pick grapes from thorn bushes, or figs from thistles?”

Peace of Cake

Psalm 23¹
1 The LORD is my shepherd, I lack nothing. 2 He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, 3 he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake. 4 Even though I walk through the darkest valley, 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 your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.

Background²

Psalm 23 is the best known and most popular of all the psalms. There is nothing particular in the title about its purpose; it is simply attributed to David. It appears to be a thanksgiving of the Israelites for their redemption from their Babylonian captivity. It is a truly beautiful Psalm. Supposing it to have been written after the captivity, we see, the redeemed captives giving thanks to God for their liberty.

Biblical Truths

The Lord is the Pastor of his people; therefore it may be inferred that they shall not want, 1. How he guides, feeds, and protects them, 2, 3. Even in the greatest dangers they may be confident of his support, 4. His abundant provision for them, 5. The confidence they may have of his continual mercy, and their eternal happiness, 6.

Acknowledging that God had brought back their lives from the grave. 3. They represent themselves in Judea as a flock in an excellent pasture. 4. They declare that from the dangers they have passed through, and from which God had delivered them, they can have no fear of any enemy. 5. They conclude, from what God has done for them, that his goodness and mercy shall follow them all their days. And, 6. That they shall no more be deprived of God’s worship, but shall all their days have access to his temple.

Items for Discussion

Psalm 23 is most popular at funerals. What is it about this Psalm that would comfort the bereaved?
How is God like a shepherd?
How is God like a guide?
How is God like a friend?
How does this Psalm describe life on earth for us?
How does this Psalm describe life in heaven for us?

John 14:25-31
25 “All this I have spoken while still with you. 26 But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. 27 Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. 28“You heard me say, ‘I am going away and I am coming back to you.’ If you loved me, you would be glad that I am going to the Father, for the Father is greater than I. 29 I have told you now before it happens, so that when it does happen you will believe. 30 I will not say much more to you, for the prince of this world is coming. He has no hold over me, 31 but he comes so that the world may learn that I love the Father and do exactly what my Father has commanded me. “Come now; let us leave.

Background³

In many ways, John’s Gospel is different from the other three Gospels. John did not include any stories about Jesus’ birth or his baptism. John only recorded 7 miracles, which he called ‘signs’. John did not include any parables (stories which Jesus told to teach something about God). But John recorded many long speeches that Jesus made.

The writer Eusebius (about AD 260-339) believed that John knew about the other three Gospels. But when he read them, John had not yet written his Gospel. He was still just talking to people about his life with Jesus. John agreed that the other Gospels were true accounts.

But Jesus was already preaching before King Herod put John the Baptist in prison. The other Gospels did not include an account of this. They recorded much about what Jesus did in Galilee. Also, they recorded what Jesus did in Jerusalem just before his death. But Jesus went to Jerusalem at other times, too. So John provided the facts that were missing from the other Gospels. He used information that they did not have. John’s account did not disagree with the other Gospels. It added different information, so that we can understand more about Jesus.

The second century writer, Clement, from Alexandria, called John’s Gospel a ‘spiritual Gospel’. In some ways, he was right. John did not record just facts about Jesus. John had thought much about what Jesus had said. And John had thought much about the miracles that he had seen. He wanted to explain the spiritual meaning of Jesus’ words and acts.

But John also included many physical details. For example, the loaves that Jesus used to feed 5000 people were ‘barley loaves’ (John 6:9). He recorded the distance that the disciples had travelled across the lake (John 6:19). And he remembered how the smell of the perfume filled the house at Bethany (John 11:32). These details do not seem important. But they are memories of a person who was present at these events. So John’s Gospel is not just a spiritual book. It is the personal account of someone who had seen these events.

Bible Truths⁴

Verses 25-26 Jesus promised that the Holy Spirit would remind the disciples of Jesus’ own words. The disciples had lived with Jesus during three years. He had taught them many things. And we know much about what he taught. We can read Jesus’ own words in the Gospels. This is because of the Holy Spirit’s help. He helped the disciples (and other people who were with Jesus) to remember. The Holy Spirit then helped the authors of the Gospels to record only what was true. The Holy Spirit can help us, too. When we read the Bible, he will help us. He will help us to understand it. In our daily lives, he will remind us of the things that we have learned.

Verse 27 The peace that Jesus gives to all Christians is the only real peace. To have this peace does not mean that we will not have trouble. But we have this peace even when bad things happen. We have this peace when we are ill or in pain. We have this peace when people reject us. This peace comforts us. It makes us remain calm when we have problems. We know that God is looking after us. So this peace will stop our fears. God controls our lives, in the present and in the future. Nothing and nobody else in the world can give this peace to us. Only Jesus can give it to us. He offers it to everybody who believes in him. But we have to want it. And we have to receive it from him. We must not put our trust just in ourselves when we are in difficulties.

Verses 28-29 When Jesus was on the earth, he was unable to do many things because of his physical body. For example, although he was God’s Son, Jesus could be in only one place at one particular time. But the Father does not have limits of time and space. So, in this way, the Father was greater than Jesus was. But Jesus would soon be with his Father again. And then Jesus would not have physical limits. He was very happy to go back to his Father. And Jesus wanted his disciples to be happy on his behalf.

Verses 30-31 ‘The ruler of this world’ means the devil. He has some authority in the world because of Adam’s sin (see note for John 12:31). But the devil has no authority over Jesus, because Jesus has never sinned. And the devil has no authority over Christians. Because we believe in Jesus, his righteousness becomes our righteousness. Still the devil will try to make us do wrong things. He may attack us in different ways. But we must continue to trust and to obey Jesus. Then the devil will have no power over us.

Items for Discussion

How would you describe “real peace?”
Does your definition differ from that found in the world today and how does it differ?
Think of this statement, “There can be no peace without God?” Where might this fall short in our world today?
Now think of this statement, “There can be no peace without Christ?” How is this different from the prior statement and is Christ sufficient to bring peace to the world?
Now think of this statement, “There can be no peace without the Holy Spirit?” How is this different from the prior two statements?
How do God, Christ and the Holy Spirit work together to bring peace to our world?

Discussion Challenge

Can peace be brought to a home, a business, a community, a country without the Trinity being present: God, Christ and the Holy Spirit?

1
NIV New International Version Translations
2
http://www.godrules.net/library/clarke/clarkepsa23.htm
3
http://www.easyenglish.info/bible-commentary/john-ma-lbw.htm
4
http://www.easyenglish.info/bible-commentary/john-ma-lbw.htm

Who Cares If You Listen?

Joshua 14:6-15¹
6 Now the people of Judah approached Joshua at Gilgal, and Caleb son of Jephunneh the Kenizzite said to him, “You know what the LORD said to Moses the man of God at Kadesh Barnea about you and me. 7 I was forty years old when Moses the servant of the LORD sent me from Kadesh Barnea to explore the land. And I brought him back a report according to my convictions, 8 but my fellow Israelites who went up with me made the hearts of the people melt in fear. I, however, followed the LORD my God wholeheartedly. 9 So on that day Moses swore to me, ‘The land on which your feet have walked will be your inheritance and that of your children forever, because you have followed the LORD my God wholeheartedly.’ 10 “Now then, just as the LORD promised, he has kept me alive for forty-five years since the time he said this to Moses, while Israel moved about in the wilderness. So here I am today, eighty-five years old! 11 I am still as strong today as the day Moses sent me out; I’m just as vigorous to go out to battle now as I was then. 12 Now give me this hill country that the LORD promised me that day. You yourself heard then that the Anakites were there and their cities were large and fortified, but, the LORD helping me, I will drive them out just as he said.” 13 Then Joshua blessed Caleb son of Jephunneh and gave him Hebron as his inheritance. 14 So Hebron has belonged to Caleb son of Jephunneh the Kenizzite ever since, because he followed the LORD, the God of Israel, wholeheartedly. 15 (Hebron used to be called Kiriath Arba after Arba, who was the greatest man among the Anakites.) Then the land had rest from war.

Background

Joshua along with Judges recount the story of Israel’s settlement in the land of Canaan and their first couple of centuries in the land. The first half of Joshua describes the actual entry of the Israelites into the land and the early battles for control of key cities (1-12). The second half of the book details how the land was divided among the tribes of Israel (13-22), as well as a concluding covenant ceremony in which the people committed themselves to the worship of God (23-24).

As the Israelites left Egypt on their exodus, Joshua was one of the twelve spies sent by Moses to scout out the land of Canaan. Joshua and Caleb were the only two who had confidence that God would give Israel the land of Canaan despite its formidable inhabitants. Because of their faith God allowed Joshua and Caleb to enter the promised land, but he vowed that the others of Joshua’s generation would die in the wilderness. God instructed Moses to designate Joshua as his successor. Joshua led the Israelites into the promised land.

²Caleb’s request is, “Give me this mountain,” or Hebron, because it was formerly in God’s promise to him, and he would let Israel knows how much he valued the promise. Those who live by faith value that which is given by God’s promise, far above what is given by his providence only. It was now in the Anakims’ possession, and Caleb would let Israel know how little he feared the enemy, and that he would encourage them to push on their conquests. Caleb answered to his name, which signifies “all heart.” Hebron was settled on Caleb and his heirs, because he wholly followed the Lord God of Israel. Happy are we if we follow him. Singular piety shall be crowned with singular favor.

Biblical Truths³

Verses 6-9 You can also read this story in Numbers 13:26-33 and Deuteronomy 1:34-36. Caleb was one of the 12 men that Moses sent in secret to look at the promised land. Only Joshua and Caleb brought good news back (Numbers 13). Caleb had faith that God would provide. Moses made a promise to Caleb. Caleb would possess some of the promised land for himself.
Verses 10-12 Caleb had waited 45 years to receive his land. He did not ask for an easy task. He asked for mountains to climb and Anakites to defeat. (Anakites were giants among men.)
Verse 13-15 Joshua gave Caleb the land near Hebron. (See Joshua 21:11-12.) Hebron is in the mountains. And Hebron was the place where the Anakites lived. So, the Israelites had to defeat the Anakites first – see Joshua 11:21. Sometimes we have to wait a long time before God answers our prayers. But we are never too old to work for God.

Items for Discussion

This story has many messages: Which ones speak to you?
How should those who are older receive this message?
God made the promise – What are the things that Caleb had to do in order to receive his land?
What was required of Joshua is relevant today – how?
How can those who are older, who have carried their faith and obedience to God, use their stories to build the faith of others?
This might be entitled “A Story of Faith and Patience.” How are the two, faith and patience, interrelated?

Revelations 3:20
20 Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me.

Background

Revelation is the last book of the Bible. The purpose of Revelation appears to have been to give the new Christians hope in the midst of their persecutions. It reveals the person of Jesus Christ. Revelation is written in a writing style called apocalyptic literature, an ancient style of writing using much imagery and was usually written in the name of an ancient hero. The title of the book Apokalupsis (The Revelation) means to uncover, to unveil. The message given to John was visual. The visions included many signs and symbols that even John didn’t understand. He used illustrations to describe these things. The events in Revelations are not necessarily chronological.

There are Two Major Sections of Revelation: Things that are (Chapters 1 – 3) and things to come (Chapters 4 – 22). Revelation was written in the format of an epistle. Its beginning occurs at 1:4 after a brief introduction (1:1-3) and had the same opening sequence as all of Paul’s letters, James, Peter, and Jude. The closing of Revelation is similar to all of Paul’s letters and Hebrews. It is important to consider that Revelation was a letter written to a specific group of Christians (to the seven churches), addressing specific needs.

Our verse is part of the section, entitled “THE LETTER TO LAODICEA (3:14-21)” Laodicea was a very wealthy city during Roman times. It was the ancient capital of the province Phrygia. It was a part of a tri-city metropolitan area which included Colossae and Hierapolis. It was widely known for its banks, medical school, and textile industry. It lacked a good water supply, and therefore its water came from a mountain about five miles away and was nasty because it traveled through stone pipes. The physicians at Laodicea developed an ointment for the ears and powder for the eyes (These were called salves). The physicians were loyal to Asklepios, the serpent God, as in Pergamum. It was a center for emperor worship.

Bible Truths

Jesus corrects who he loves. All they have to do is repent. Since Jesus says that he was on the outside knocking, we can conclude that the church was probably not gathering in Jesus’ name or for worship of God (Matthew 18:20). The church may have been a social club for the rich and famous (both actual and perceived) and the proud as some churches are today. Matthew 18:20 says “For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.” Jesus would be among the two or three. We can apply this by saying that Jesus would be among the people that are gathered in His name in a whole congregation. Those who overcome would participate with Jesus in His sovereignty (See Ephesians 2:6).

Items for Discussion

Using the imagery of someone at a door, what are the responsibilities of each party, the one outside and the one inside?
What do you do when you hear a knock?
A Door and knock are both figures of speech. Neither the door nor the knock are literal. What is Jesus seeking?
The word “If “ is used: maybe the person inside the house will hear and maybe he will not hear. The issue is not recognition of the voice, but hearing the voice. Why do so many not hear?
Jesus uses a metaphor. Reciprocal dining. How would fellowship differ between standing at the door and talking and extending an invitation to dinner?

Discussion Challenge

How do we make sure those we love hear the “knock?”

1
NIV New International Version Translations
2
http://www.christnotes.org/commentary.php?com=mhc&b=6&c=14
3
http://www.easyenglish.info/bible-commentary/joshua-lbw.htm

Ships at a Distance

Genesis 2:15-18¹
15 The LORD God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it. 16 And the LORD God commanded the man, “You are free to eat from any tree in the garden; 17 but you must not eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, for when you eat from it you will certainly die.” 18 The LORD God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.”

Background

It is not known who wrote the Book of Genesis or when it was written. There is an ancient tradition that Moses was the author. Modern studies have introduced many other ideas. But we can see that Genesis is by itself a very old book. Even the oldest books in the Bible refer to it (for example, Exodus 3:15; Job 28:25-29).

The author was not merely collecting ancient stories or recording ancient history. In fact, Genesis is a very careful account, which teaches the main principles in the Bible. The author describes the nature of God and God’s plan for a perfect world. The author also describes sin and sacrifice. He speaks about God’s promise to forgive sin and he speaks about God’s promise to send Jesus.

Biblical Truths²

Verse 15 – God took care of Adam. And God took Adam to the garden that God had prepared for him. God gave work for Adam to do. Adam’s work was to look after the garden. A better word than ‘garden’ here might be ‘farm’. The garden was not just a pretty place with flowers and trees. But it was important for food also.

Verse 17 – God gave Adam an important command. So Adam was responsible to God. As we shall see in chapter 3, Adam did not obey God’s command. In the garden, Adam had the freedom to be a friend of God. But Adam did not want this freedom. Instead, he wanted the freedom to do whatever things he wanted to do. He wanted to live his own life, without God’s friendship. So Adam chose to do evil things, although God had warned him about the results of such a decision. Death was not part of God’s original plan for men and women. God wanted them to live always and to be his friends. But when men and women began to do evil things, the result was death. Their bodies did not die immediately. But their spirits were dead, because they were not still friends of God. And so they could not go to be with God in heaven when their bodies died.

Verse 18[re]http://www.christnotes.org/commentary.php?com=mhc&b=1&c=2[/mfn]– While power over the creatures was given to man, man was limited to the lord of the creatures. Unfortunately, nothing yet in this new world was a help meet for man himself. We must remember that from God are all our helpers. If we rest in God, he will work all for good. So God caused deep sleep to fall on Adam; while he knows no sin, God will take care that he shall feel no pain. God, as her Father, brought the woman to the man, as his second self, and a help for man. That wife, who is of God’s making by special grace, and of God’s bringing by special providence, is likely to be a help for a man but what is needed is, both prudence and prayer in the choice of this relationship because it is to be done for life. Our first parents needed no clothes for covering against cold or heat, for nothing could hurt them: they needed nothing for ornament. Thus living an easy and happy life, was man in his state of innocence.

Items for Discussion

If Genesis teaches us the nature of God and His plan for this world, what can you find in these verses to help you learn about God’s nature and His plans?
Why do you think that God gave Adam virtually everything but one, the one that would cause his downfall?
What can we learn about loneliness from God’s perspective?
What does it mean to a Christian to have “dominion” over the earth?
What are mankind’s responsibilities with earth?
What does it mean to “work” in the garden?
What does it mean to be able to eat from any tree?

Ephesians 4:22-25
22 You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; 23 to be made new in the attitude of your minds; 24 and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness. 25 Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body.

Background³

This letter was written when St. Paul was a prisoner at Rome. The design appears to be to strengthen the Ephesians in the faith of Christ, and to give exalted views of the love of God, and of the dignity and excellence of Christ, fortifying their minds against the scandal of the cross. He shows that they were saved by grace, and that however wretched they once were, they now had equal privileges with the Jews. He encourages them to persevere in their Christian calling, and urges them to walk in a manner becoming their profession, faithfully discharging the general and common duties of religion, and the special duties of particular relations.

Bible Truths⁴

The corrupt nature is called a man; like the human body, it is of diverse parts, supporting and strengthening one another. Sinful desires are deceitful lusts; they promise men happiness, but render them more miserable; and bring them to destruction, if not subdued and mortified. These therefore must be put off, as an old garment, a filthy garment; they must be subdued and mortified. But it is not enough to shake off corrupt principles; we must have gracious ones. By the new man, is meant the new nature, the new creature, directed by a new principle, even regenerating grace, enabling a man to lead a new life of righteousness and holiness. This is created, or brought forth by God’s almighty power.

Notice the particulars wherewith we should adorn our Christian profession. Take heed of everything contrary to truth. No longer flatter or deceive others. God’s people are children who will not lie, who dare not lie, who hate and abhor lying.

Items for Discussion

How can you tell if you are a good Christian? In other words, what would your behaviors, attitudes, actions look like in modern day society?
We are being called to replace sin with something else, to be professional Christians – What does that mean to you?
Is there ever a reason to lie?
How is flattery a poor reflection on Christianity?
How do Christians deceive others?

Discussion Challenge

How can the “body” of the Church help people overcome their corrupt nature and become the “professional Christian” that Paul talks about?

1
NIV New International Version Translations
2
http://www.easyenglish.info/bible-commentary/genesis-mwks-lbw.htm
3
http://www.christnotes.org/commentary.php?com=mhc&b=49&c=0
4
http://www.christnotes.org/commentary.php?b=49&c=4&com=mhc

Partnering In The Journey

Psalm 19¹
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 reveal knowledge. 3 They have no speech, they use no words; no sound is heard from them. 4 Yet their voice goes out into all the earth, their words to the ends of the world. In the heavens God has pitched a tent for the sun. 5 It is like a bridegroom coming out of his chamber, 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 deprived of its warmth. 7 The law of the LORD is perfect, refreshing 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 decrees of the LORD are firm, and all of them are righteous. 10 They are more precious than gold, than much pure gold; they are sweeter than honey, than honey from the honeycomb. 11 By them your servant is warned; in keeping them there is great reward. 12 But who can discern their own errors? Forgive my hidden faults. 13 Keep your servant also from willful sins; may they not rule over me. Then I will be blameless, innocent of great transgression. 14 May these words of my mouth and this meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer.

Background²

We do not know when David wrote Psalm 19. Perhaps it was one morning when he had been out all night with his sheep. He saw the sunrise over Moab. What David saw spoke to him about God. David remembered the stars that he saw at night. God made the stars. In the morning David saw the sun. God made the sun. All that David saw told him about God. He heard no words, there was no language. But David knew that everything was telling him about God.
Then David remembered something else. He remembered the Word of God. David did not have the whole Bible. He only had the start of the Old Testament. But it told him about God. And it made David very happy. But it also made David think. It made him say to himself, “Am I a good or bad man?” He prayed that God would forgive him. David was, perhaps, sitting on the top of a great rock. That spoke to him about God as well! God was like a rock to David. So David called God “My Rock”. He also called God his Redeemer, someone that pays the price to make a slave free.

Biblical Truths³

Psalm 19 is about words. In verses 1 – 6 nobody speaks the words. We see the moon and the stars and the sun. We see the earth and the animals and the plants. They all make us feel inside ourselves, “Somebody made all this”. The psalm tells us in verses 1 and 4 who that is. His name is God. We have a special name for all these things that God made. We call them all “nature”. Nature is like a very big book. It tells us, “God made everything”.

Now look at verses 7 – 11. Can you find the name “God” in it? No, because here God has a different name. Here he is the LORD. This is the name that people use when they decide to follow God. He becomes their LORD. This part of the psalm is not about the book of nature. This is about the book that we call the Bible.

So, here are 2 important books about God. In the book of nature we learn how great God is. We learn that he is wonderful. We may feel afraid of him. Christians call this “awe”. It makes us want to tell God that he is wonderful. We call this “worship”. The other book is the Bible. It tells us how to follow God, and make him our LORD.

Verses 12 – 14 tells us how to start following God.

Items for Discussion

How do you or where do you see God in nature?
Man creates wonderful things too but is it possible to miss God totally if man does not spend time with nature? Why?
Why do you believe that the Bible is the inspired Word of God?
Is it possible to miss God if mankind does not spend time with God’s Word?
David, seeing God in nature and seeing God in the Bible, responds in verses 12 through 14 – What else is David saying we need to do?
Why are these things necessary for a relationship with God?

2 Timothy 1:1-7
1 Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, in keeping with the promise of life that is in Christ Jesus, 2 To Timothy, my dear son: Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord. 3 I thank God, whom I serve, as my ancestors did, with a clear conscience, as night and day I constantly remember you in my prayers. 4 Recalling your tears, I long to see you, so that I may be filled with joy. 5 I am reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also. 6 For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands. 7 For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.

Background⁴

The first design of this letter seems to have been, to apprize Timothy of what had occurred during the imprisonment of the apostle, and to request him to come to Rome. But being uncertain whether he should be suffered to live to see him, Paul gives a variety of advices and encouragements, for the faithful discharge of his ministerial duties. As this was a private letter written to St. Paul’s most intimate friend, under the miseries of imprisonment, and in the near prospect of death, it shows the temper and character of the apostle, and contains convincing proofs that he sincerely believed the doctrines he preached.

Bible Truths⁵

The promise of eternal life to believers in Christ Jesus, is the leading subject of ministers who are employed according to the will of God. The blessings here named, are the best we can ask for our beloved friends, that they may have peace with God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord. Whatever good we do, God must have the glory. True believers have in every age the same religion as to substance. Their faith is unfeigned; it will stand the trial, and it dwells in them as a living principle. Thus pious women may take encouragement from the success of Lois and Eunice with Timothy, who proved so excellent and useful a minister. Some of the most worthy and valuable ministers the church of Christ has been favored with, have had to bless God for early religious impressions made upon their minds by the teaching of their mothers or other female relatives.

God has not given us the spirit of fear, but the spirit of power, of courage and resolution, to meet difficulties and dangers; the spirit of love to him, which will carry us through opposition. And the spirit of a sound mind, quietness of mind. The Holy Spirit is not the author of a timid or cowardly disposition, or of slavish fears. We are likely to bear afflictions well, when we have strength and power from God to enable us to bear them. As is usual with Paul, when he mentions Christ and his redemption, he enlarges upon them; so full was he of that which is all our salvation, and ought to be all our desire.

Items for Discussion

What are some of the things you would tell someone you cared for if you were about to die?
What is Paul saying about fear and power?
What kind of faith does Paul want for a believer?
Could Christianity be as successful as it has in changing lives if everyone was timid?
What consolation do you take in knowing that for over 2,000 years, Christianity has been spreading through bold testimony? Or another way to ask this question is, “Could Christ’s message of love and salvation been successful without the power of the Holy Spirit?
What attributes do we receive from the Holy Spirit and why are these so important to the spreading of the Good News?

Discussion Challenge

How do you help people remove their timid nature and be bold for Christ?

1
NIV New International Version Translations
2
http://www.easyenglish.info/psalms/psalm019-taw.htm
3
http://www.easyenglish.info/psalms/psalm019-taw.htm
4
http://www.christnotes.org/commentary.php?com=mhc&b=55&c=0
5
http://www.christnotes.org/commentary.php?com=mhc&b=55&c=1

Background2http://www.easyenglish.info/bible-commentary/2samuel-lbw.htm

Biblical Truths3http://www.easyenglish.info/bible-commentary/2samuel-lbw.htm

Items for Discussion

Background4http://www.christnotes.org/commentary.php?com=mhc&b=58&c=0

Bible Truths

Items for Discussion

Discussion Challenge

Background2http://bible.org/seriespage/zephaniah

Biblical Truths3http://www.christnotes.org/commentary.php?b=36&c=3&com=mhc

Items for Discussion

Background

Bible Truths

Items for Discussion

Discussion Challenge

Background2http://www.christnotes.org/commentary.php?com=mhc&b=23&c=0

Biblical Truths3http://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/matthew-henry-concise/isaiah/26.html

Items for Discussion

Background5http://www.easyenglish.info/bible-commentary/2peter-lbw.htm

Bible Truths{ref]http://www.easyenglish.info/bible-commentary/2peter-lbw.htm[/mfn]

Items for Discussion

Discussion Challenge

Background2http://montreal.anglican.org/comments/archive/zanldm.shtml

Biblical Truths3http://www.biblegateway.com/resources/commentaries/Matthew-Henry/Ps/Psalms-45-10-17

Items for Discussion

Background

Bible Truths4http://www.easyenglish.info/bible-commentary/romans-lbw.htm

Items for Discussion

Discussion Challenge

Background2http://www.christnotes.org/commentary.php?com=mhc&b=19&c=119

Biblical Truths3http://www.christnotes.org/commentary.php?com=mhc&b=19&c=119

Items for Discussion

Background4http://www.godrules.net/library/clarke/clarkemat13.htm

Bible Truths

Items for Discussion

Discussion Challenge

Background2http://www.spurgeon.org/treasury/ps139.htm

Biblical Truths

Items for Discussion

Background3http://www.godrules.net/library/clarke/clarkemat13.htm

Bible Truths4http://www.gotquestions.org/parable-wheat-tares.html

Items for Discussion

Discussion Challenge

Background2http://www.godrules.net/library/clarke/clarkepsa23.htm

Biblical Truths

Items for Discussion

Background3http://www.easyenglish.info/bible-commentary/john-ma-lbw.htm

Bible Truths4http://www.easyenglish.info/bible-commentary/john-ma-lbw.htm

Items for Discussion

Discussion Challenge

Background

Biblical Truths3http://www.easyenglish.info/bible-commentary/joshua-lbw.htm

Background

Bible Truths

Items for Discussion

Discussion Challenge

Background

Biblical Truths2http://www.easyenglish.info/bible-commentary/genesis-mwks-lbw.htm

Items for Discussion

Background3http://www.christnotes.org/commentary.php?com=mhc&b=49&c=0

Bible Truths4http://www.christnotes.org/commentary.php?b=49&c=4&com=mhc

Items for Discussion

Discussion Challenge

Background2http://www.easyenglish.info/psalms/psalm019-taw.htm

Biblical Truths3http://www.easyenglish.info/psalms/psalm019-taw.htm

Items for Discussion

Background4http://www.christnotes.org/commentary.php?com=mhc&b=55&c=0

Bible Truths5http://www.christnotes.org/commentary.php?com=mhc&b=55&c=1

Items for Discussion

Discussion Challenge

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