I hope I am not injuring Matthew’s text by sharing this. Still, I have recently been reflecting on Jesus’ testimony about John the Immerser as recorded in Matthew 11.7ff. Jesus asked the assembled crowd about their rationale for venturing into the wilderness to hear John. Were they going to see: “A reed shaken in the wind?” “A man dressed in fine clothes?” “A prophet?” What were they hoping to find?
Had they anticipated someone whose opinions and beliefs could be easily changed? John did not easily change his mind or bow to the masses’ will. Did they think they would meet someone living a life of luxury? John’s simple lifestyle, which included camel-hair clothing and the consumption of locusts and wild honey, was meant to highlight his prophetic calling and set him apart from the rest of society. John was a prophet, Jesus says, and not just any regular prophet. He prophesied in the Old Testament to come before the Messiah and pave the way for him (see Malachi 3.1).
Jesus spoke highly of John and emphasized the significance of His upcoming kingdom, stating that even the least in it would be greater than John. We must recognize that we can be a part of this kingdom by obeying the gospel. With this understanding in mind, let’s consider a new perspective. Why should we attend church assemblies now that Jesus has established His kingdom and added to it those He saves (Acts 2:47)?
To paraphrase Jesus, “Did you come here for a show?” Like Jesus’s question about the reed, this challenges the idea of fickleness and superficiality in worship. If attendees primarily seek entertainment, they may miss the depth and reverence of a genuine relationship with God. Desires to develop spiritually, interact with other Christians, and actively participate in the body of Christ should be the driving forces behind attending church services. It is an opportunity to learn from biblical teachings, receive guidance and support, and collectively worship and glorify God. Engaging in these gatherings strengthens our faith, builds meaningful relationships, and contributes to advancing God’s kingdom on earth.
Would Jesus ask, “Did you come here for personal gain?” Analogous to the question about “a man dressed in fine clothes,” this question challenges those who attend church for social status, networking opportunities, or personal recognition. Jesus would prioritize the sincerity of one’s intentions and the desire to grow spiritually rather than seeking personal gain. He emphasized humility, selflessness, and a genuine love for God and others. Therefore, attending church should be driven by a genuine hunger for spiritual growth and a desire to serve and love others rather than personal gain or recognition.
Or would He ask, “Did you come here to meet God?” As Jesus confirmed John’s prophetic role, this question reinforces the primary purpose of the church: to engage in communal worship and seek a deeper relationship with God. Attending church is more than fulfilling a religious obligation; it is about connecting with a higher power and finding meaning in our lives. Through this connection, we can experience personal transformation and contribute to the well-being of our community.It’s important to regularly evaluate our reasons for attending church services and ensure that we understand what true worship means. Worship is not about us but showing our love, respect, and admiration for God. It’s not about receiving anything but about giving. We should avoid letting the latest gimmicks or methodology take away from the message or purpose of coming together, which is to honor God. Each of us can contribute by demonstrating humility and service and emphasizing that the focus is on God, not on any one person.
Here’s what I noticed in the last few days, just in the church and community where I preach. I’m sure it’s not just happening here.
A new Christian calling on a weekday to ask doctrinal questions to better answer people she’s sharing the gospel with.
A Christian woman facing horrible prospects humbly trusting God’s will as she faces the future.
A Christian quietly helping an elderly Christian woman, getting her groceries and to her doctor’s appointments (they’re not related, though they are neighbors).
An eldership showing tender affection and taking much time to unselfishly help a brother in Christ, providing him wise and helpful counsel.
A sizable group of Christians getting together for an “optional” Bible study at the building on a weekday.
A quiet, teenage young man delivering an excellent devotional despite being extremely nervous doing his first lesson.
A brand new Christian helping interpret in a Bible study with an elderly woman who cannot speak English.
A Christian teen young woman helping get her boyfriend into a Bible study.
A small group of Christian men, including deacons, pouring much time and attention into a growing young adult Bible study.
A Christian woman using her considerable artistic skills to help the congregation do some advertising for a big, upcoming event.
Several of our church members showing up to support a gospel meeting in the neighboring county.
A woman not yet a Christian driving to the building to donate several Bibles for our missionary in South Africa (along with several members who did so).
A deacon who successfully persuaded a coworker in town for the week to come to mid-week Bible class.
Some of our teenagers meeting at a local coffee shop for a group Bible study.
I’m frustrated to bring that list to a close, but I do so certain that I have overlooked several more, similar situations. Here’s the thing. If I were to do this every week, I would be able to produce an equally impressive list. Why? Because God’s people are the best people in the world! Perfect? Far from it! Persevering? In so many cases!
It lifted my spirits to spend a few moments reflecting on the good I’m seeing in the local church. Why not take a moment to focus your gaze in that direction? You’ll be surprised at the good you find. You don’t need to be the preacher to uncover all these secrets. Just plug in and tune in.
“Your Father who sees what is done in secret will reward you” (Matt. 6:4,6,18)!
I Pt 2.1-3 (bad chapter break): because we have this unstoppable hope for new life after this one’s over, we have to be good to each other. Stop hurting each other. Stop lying. Stop trying to trick people. Stop being jealous. Quit gossiping. Crave God’s word as if it was life-giving nutrition (because it is). We already know it’s beneficial, so we shouldn’t stop craving it.
2.4-10 reassures us that Jesus is the only way to go. If the church is a house, Jesus is the primary load-bearing structural component. Each Christian makes up the other materials used in construction. Between Jesus and his church, we have a complete, functional house. It’s word imagery that may not be native to our thinking, but it works. The rest of the world doesn’t think Jesus should be the foundation we build on. They don’t think his teaching or existence is worth anything (7-8). Beyond seeing no value in our lifestyle, they even get offended at the things we believe and practice. God will take care of them in the end, they’re not our problem.
2.11-12 — What is our problem is how we live. The world hates who we are and what we believe. We can’t let them pressure us into giving up or living like they do because it’s easier. If we live morally pure lives, they’ll be forced to acknowledge God (and us— 2.12; 4.13; 5.12) when he returns!
What did He look like as a child or grown man? Isaiah 53:2 leads one to believe He had no remarkable, distinguishing physical characteristics. What earthly interests did He have? What was His favorite subject in school? Who did He spend time with the first 30 years of His life? Was He tall or short? How did He sound when He laughed?
These questions have long fascinated man, but they matter little. If they mattered to His contemporaries, they would have written about them. If they mattered to God, surely there would be a record of them. Yet, the physical things about Jesus tell one little about who He is. When little children sit on His knee, when the poor and hurting find comfort from Him, and when the enemies of truth are on the scorched end of His rebukes, He is teaching the things about Himself that mattered most. As we seek to know Jesus, here is what we learn.
He is Our Teacher
On 12 separate occasions, the gospels record somebody calling Jesus “rabbi”–never in jest or ridicule. In John 20:16, He is called “Rabboni.” The former term meant “my master” and the latter meant “my great master.” The terms were meant to rank a person’s ability and proficiency as a teacher of the Law. People marveled at Jesus’ teaching ability (cf. Luke 20:26; John 7:46; Matthew 7:29). He taught with so many different methods, whether object lessons, parables, questions and answers, or through questions. His teaching changed lives, from the apostles to strangers to even enemies. People may have debated Christ’s claims and doubted the power behind His miracles, but they could never answer His teaching.
Jesus is our teacher, too. Certainly, He teaches us through the Scripture (cf. 2 Peter 1:3). He left us everything we need to go to heaven, and He is holding us accountable for it (John 12:48).
But He also teaches us with His example. He practiced perfectly the things He taught, so that even His enemies could find no fault in Him (Luke 23:4; John 8:46). He had the perfect attitude toward truth, so that while He was never abusive or unkind He did set forth truth in plain, simple terms to make clear that if the shoe fit His listener should wear it. He loved His students with a perfect degree of love. He loved truth, but He also loved everyone. When people rejected truth, He sorrowed for them. He wanted all saved, even those who crucified Him.
He further teaches us with His approach. He had the widest of vision, intending everyone of every race and nation to hear the gospel (Matthew 28:18-20). He had the clearest of insight into His students. He set an incomparable moral standard. He did not just condemn sinful acts, but also the hearts behind such actions and so emphasized that we should act out of perfect love and faith.
He had a perfect method of teaching, teaching, as Franklin Camp might say, “old truths in new robes.” He adapted His methods to His audience, and He utilized the common things of life they knew. Jesus came to show us the Father. But, He also came to show us ourselves. His teaching also showed us so much about who He is!
Are you occasionally guilty of proof-texting? Proof-texting is the practice of using specific passages from the Bible to justify a larger body of doctrine or belief. For example, teaching that a simple prayer is all required to obtain salvation is incorrect when someone uses a verse like Romans 10:13. However, we may occasionally engage in sloppy proof-texting. It might become a standard practice to pull a verse out of context and use it to teach a specific lesson, especially when delivering a sermon on a timely topic.
Sometimes, I’m like the Ethiopian official of Acts 8, unable to understand independently and needing a Phillip to guide me in applying Scripture. On other occasions, I’ve not been as diligent in my Bible reading and study. As an illustration, consider Matthew 16.24:
“Then Jesus said to His disciples, ‘If anyone wants to come after Me, he must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow Me…’” (NASB)
Unpacking Matthew 16.24
So, what is the deeper meaning behind this verse? At a cursory glance, it advocates living a selfless, Christ-centered life. Can that be the correct point of view but an incomplete answer? Have you ever pondered on Jesus’ motivation for this statement? Considering the verses around it highlights the importance of this particular verse even more.
Foretelling His Death
Before Matthew 16.24, Jesus reveals His impending suffering, death, and resurrection in Jerusalem to His disciples. Matthew elaborates on this detail in verse 21. Following Peter’s rebuke, Jesus retorts, “Get behind Me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to Me; for you are not setting your mind on God’s purposes, but men’s.” (Matthew 16.23 NASB) This rebuke paves the way for His subsequent proclamation.
Cost of Discipleship
When Jesus asked His disciples to “take up their crosses,” He wasn’t merely alluding to inconveniencing themselves. In the Roman context, the cross symbolized a horrific death. Jesus propounds a radical form of discipleship, which might entail severe hardships, even to the extent of death.
Identity of Jesus
The backdrop of Matthew 16.13–20, where Peter acknowledges Jesus as “the Christ, the Son of the living God,” intensifies the narrative. Their recognition of His identity as the Messiah profoundly impacts His call to discipleship and the prophecy of His demise.
Theme of the Kingdom
Throughout Matthew’s Gospel, the theme of the Kingdom is prevalent. Jesus paints a picture of a Kingdom that defies worldly conventions—where the last shall be first, the meek inherit the earth, and true leaders serve. The call to bear one’s cross redefines power, leadership, and sacrifice within this framework.
Post Matthew 16:24’s Context
After 16.24, in verses 25–28, Jesus revisits the essence of radical discipleship. He challenges established ideas about life, pointing towards a deeper spiritual understanding.
Broader Interpretation
Many correctly perceive Jesus’ words in Matthew 16.24 as a directive to lead a Christ-focused life. But its genuine gravitas emerges when contextualized. After foretelling His sufferings and ultimate sacrifice, Jesus presents discipleship not as mere renunciation but potentially a path encompassing suffering, even death. Peter’s affirmation and the recurring Kingdom theme in Matthew magnify this verse’s impact. To fully grasp its true meaning, one must look at the larger narrative and how it fits the Gospel’s overarching theme: the Kingdom’s reversal of societal norms and values. This comprehensive viewpoint adds depth and richness to the essence of Christian faith, emphasizing the importance of perseverance.
We usually lie to ourselves more than we do to others. However, repentance in and of itself is being open and honest with God. It’s recognizing sin, and turning from it.
The prodigal son took his inheritance, left home and blew all his money. He waisted his money fulfilling his every desire. But after a while, the money ran out and he was forced to get a job working with pigs. He was so hungry the pig slop looked appetizing.
Jesus tells us this parable in Luke 15:17-24,
“But when he came to his senses, he said, ‘How many of my father’s hired men have more than enough bread, but I am dying here with hunger! ‘I will get up and go to my father, and will say to him, “Father, I have sinned against heaven, and in your sight; I am no longer worthy to be called your son; make me as one of your hired men.” ’” So he got up and came to his father. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and felt compassion for him, and ran and embraced him and kissed him. “And the son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and in your sight; I am no longer worthy to be called your son.’ “But the father said to his slaves, ‘Quickly bring out the best robe and put it on him, and put a ring on his hand and sandals on his feet; and bring the fattened calf, kill it, and let us eat and celebrate; for this son of mine was dead and has come to life again; he was lost and has been found.’ And they began to celebrate.”
Notice that the son said to himself, “I have sinned against heaven, and in your sight.” Do we really want to know ourselves? Be honest. Not a single human on earth is without sin. When the son was honest, the Father was forgiving.
If you’re a Christian and there’s sin in your life, the worst thing you can do is ignore it.
1 John 1:9 says, “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” God is READY and FAITHFUL to forgive…but we MUST confess! God doesn’t want you to bury them deep down; confess and get it over with! He’s waiting. He already knows what you’ve done, but we act like we can hide it from Him.
You owe it to yourself to be honest, not just to others but in the conversations you have in your head. Be honest in the decisions you make, the sins in your life and you’ll be closer to knowing who you REALLY are.
We are sinful, we are human, but God gives grace to those who come to Him. Let’s be honest, and a truthful examination will show us that we need God in our lives.
Sometimes we long for a moment alone, but there are other times we may not want to be alone but because of our circumstances we find ourselves by ourselves.
We know that with God we’re never alone but scripture shows how our relationship with God can become more intimate in isolation.
JESUS SPENT TIME BY HIMSELF AT LEAST SIX TIMES IN THE BIBLE AND HIS REASONS FOR SOLITUDE ARE VERY TELLING
To prepare for a major task (Luke 4:1-2, 14-15).
To recharge after hard work (Mark 6:30-32).
To work through grief (Matthew 14:1-13).
Before making an important decision (Luke 6:12-13). Early in His ministry Jesus spent the whole night alone in prayer. The next day He chose his 12 disciples.
In a time of distress (Luke 22:39-44). Hours before Jesus was arrested He went to the Mt. of Olives and went a short distance away from His disciples to pray. He was in great emotional agony knowing what he was about to face.
To focus on prayer (Luke 5:16). Many times in Jesus’ ministry He spent time alone in prayer.
Jesus didn’t only retreat to be alone with God. He also taught his disciples to do the same (Mark 3.7, Mark 6.31-32, Luke 9.10).
“Come away by yourselves to a desolate place and rest a while.” Mark explains, “For many were coming and going, and they had no leisure even to eat. And they went away in the boat to a desolate place by themselves” – Mk. 6.31-32
Whether you’re pursuing a desolate place to be alone or you’re forced to be alone, in moderation it can be a productive and beneficial time of spiritual growth.
Peter acknowledges the difficulty of living with faith in I Pt 1.8 — You haven’t even seen Jesus, but you love him. You can’t see him right now, but you believe in him. You are filled with a profound joy that can’t be explained.
All of this is for a reason (1.9) — Your faith has a goal, and you’re getting closer to that goal: salvation. This isn’t something we’ll get in this life. Salvation in this and some other verses has the meaning “rescue”, rather than meaning salvation from our sins.
1.10-12 — We only get this rescue because of God’s grace. That grace is extremely valuable. In fact, two major players were very curious about how exactly God was going to make this happen: all of the ancient prophets, and even God’s angels.
In 10-11, it’s mentioned twice that the prophets really wanted to know more about the grace we take for granted. In 12, God had to put their curiosity in check by making it clear to them that their service was not for themselves. And, even the angels would like very much to know more about these things you were told.
The point of these two verses is to show us how valuable grace actually is. We take for granted how easy it is to live a morally pure life with God’s assistance, even though we’re hamstrung by our struggle with sin. His grace is powerful, and the fact that we have it should make us feel very special.
1.13-25 — These verses build off of the previous ones in that the sheer value of grace and the anticipation we have of our reward should give us the motivation we need to put up with anything the world throws at us.
1.13 has one of those combat concepts — prepare your minds for action. Things were about to get very rough for those early Christians. There’s nothing new under the sun, and things might get rough for us, too. Our mindset going into hard times should be similar to the mindset of a good soldier: I might die doing this, but I believe in the cause, so it’s worth it.
1.14 is a strong reminder that every one of us needs. The only thing that can and will get us through anything with our faith intact is our hope for Jesus’s return. Only when he comes back to get us will everything be ok (cf Rom 8.28).
1.15-25 is about two points that will be repeated throughout the book — life is short and unpredictable, so live morally pure lives. It’ll be worth it because the next life will never end, unlike this one. The stakes are far too high to throw it all away on a self-indulgent lifestyle.
On July 5, 2023, Zach Swope’s set a Guinness World Record by watching 777 movies. The 32-year-old man did it for a cause, to raise awareness about autism and suicide awareness. He did it at a cost, even though he had an unlimited membership that allowed him to watch all these movies for $22 per month. After all, consider the time expended. He saw several movies multiple times to reach this historic milestone, including one movie (“Puss in Boots: The Last Wish”) 47 times (Source).
While there are a multitude of applications we could observe about Mr. Swope’s endeavor, I want to focus in on just one. Zach was dedicated to be present as often as possible. He was willing to do what it took to be there because it was part of an ultimate goal. It caught the attention of others. It was the result of an attempt to fulfill a tangible purpose.
However you feel about Swope’s use of time or money, consider an opportunity we have. The Lord and the local church provide us multiple times to come together to study the Bible each week. There are, typically, multiple opportunities to assemble to worship God together. Periodically, there are extra occasions given to study and worship through special events or classes. While merely attending these will not earn one the reward of eternal life, it can greatly aid the aim. The time spent is invaluable. Any expense or sacrifice potentially rewards and enhances life. It can certainly influence people in our lives in a most positive way!
Perhaps the best-known passage on the subject provides the most insight on the value of attending: “And let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near” (Hebrews 10:24-25). What does God tell us here?
Assembling is deliberate–“Let us consider”
Assembling is cooperative–“Let us…together”
Assembling is purposeful–“How to stimulate one another to love and good deeds”
Assembling is considerate–“Stimulate one another…encouraging one another”
Assembling is habitual– Just as “forsaking our own assembling together” is
Assembling is spiritual– “As you see the day (Judgment, cf. 10:26ff) drawing near”
It is true that one can attend every service, but still not go to heaven. One’s heart might not be right there (Matthew 15:8-9). One’s life might not be right when not there (Jeremiah 7:9-10). But, it is much more difficult to go there when our approach to attending is lackadaisical, not prioritized, or deemed optional and dispensable. Wouldn’t it be wonderful to develop a reputation within our circle of influence as one as dedicated to worship as this young man was to moviegoing?
Historically, I’ve seen the Book of Revelation as rooted in a bygone era, primarily relevant to the early Christians of the first and second centuries. Therefore, Revelation 2.10, which urged faithfulness to achieve eternal life, crystallized the central message for contemporary Christians. Earlier readings of Revelation painted it as a cryptic missive, but recent interactions, set against the backdrop of current news and social media, have reshaped my understanding of its relevance to our times. (And, no, I’m not referring to premillennial notions of the end times.)
Faith & Integrity:
Revelation emphasizes the importance of unwavering allegiance to one’s beliefs. Individuals today frequently navigate the turbulent waters of societal expectations and political correctness, just as early Christians did with the imposing orthodoxy of the Roman Empire. The letters to the seven churches can be read as a call to fortitude, warning against surrendering one’s values to the winds of societal change.
Furthermore, the church in Pergamum, which Jesus chastised for its flirtation with idolatrous teachings, serves as a stark warning against even seemingly minor compromises. Deviating from long-held Biblical teachings for modern ideologies can resemble the ancient seduction of the Imperial Cult.
Perseverance & Opposition:
Revelation encourages perseverance, especially when faced with persecution. Like their forefathers, modern Christians may face scorn or disdain for their steadfast adherence to biblical values. On the other hand, Revelation offers solace by promising rewards for unwavering faith.
Hope & Future:
In the grand narrative, Revelation emphasizes the transient nature of earthly regimes. The predicted demise of “Babylon” (Rome) is a powerful reminder of the transient nature of societal norms and structures. Current political correctness or societal mores are fleeting, particularly when viewed through eternity.
Revelation’s resounding theme is hope despite its occasionally bleak portrayals. Regardless of current challenges, the promise of the New Jerusalem and God’s ultimate triumph herald a brighter horizon.
Discernment & Judgment:
The rich tapestry of symbols and visions in Revelation invites discernment. This challenge reflects today’s environment, which is rife with competing narratives and information overload. The imperative is to cut through the noise and identify truths that align with biblical beliefs.
In conclusion, Revelation is not limited to the period in which John wrote it. It sends an enduring message, urging believers throughout the ages to remain steadfast in the face of external pressures and to cherish the eternal promise. This message emphasizes Revelation’s continuing relevance, encouraging our forefathers and current believers to consider its teachings.
For even more on the book of Revelation, we highly recommend Hiram Kemp’s study of Revelation at Lehman Avenue church of Christ (all archives are on our YouTube page and the class is a little over halfway done.
Imperfect people have been called by a perfect God. Our imperfection can hinder the church’s unity, contaminate our own faith, and corrupt our relationship with God as well as with each other. What steps can we take to make sure our humanity doesn’t pollute the unity of Christ’s body? In Romans 15 we find four tips that Paul gives us on how we can achieve unity in Christ.
We can find perfect unity in Christ if we:
Serve One Another
Accept Each Person (As Christ did)
Join Together in Glorifying God
Have the Same Mind
This unity in Christ leads to stronger relationships with each other. Our healthy relationships with each other can help us achieve our designed end. When we are unified in mind, our weaknesses and imperfections are minimized. If we want to accomplish the tasks that God has set before us, we must be unified as a church body–a body that is connected by a shared goal.
God in His infinite wisdom knew that we wouldn’t always get along, so He gave us His word to help us in our relationships with each other. We could never achieve unity if it wasn’t for God’s Word. It is the source of unity and wisdom.
God has always had a plan for His creation. He wants every person to be saved and have access to salvation. Whether it was through the Patriarchal Law, Mosaic Law, Moral Law, or the Christian dispensation, mankind has always had a means to be saved.
But the Jewish Christians didn’t agree with God’s decision to include the Gentiles.
Romans 15:8-12 explains why everyone has access to salvation. The Jews had a hard time letting go of their background. They didn’t see it as right to let Gentiles into the church. But Paul tells them they’re wrong. In fact, Paul uses writings the Jews were familiar with. He says,
“For I tell you that Christ became a servant to the circumcised to show God’s truthfulness, in order to confirm the promises given to the patriarchs, and in order that the Gentiles might glorify God for his mercy. As it is written, “Therefore I will praise you among the Gentiles, and sing to your name.” And again it is said, “Rejoice, O Gentiles, with his people.” And again, “Praise the Lord, all you Gentiles, and let all the peoples extol him.” And again Isaiah says, “The root of Jesse will come, even he who arises to rule the Gentiles; in him will the Gentiles hope.”
God’s plan from the beginning was to include the Gentiles. The early church was divided because the Jews had their own ideas about who could be a Christian and who could not. If we wish to have unity, we must recognize God’s plan. We must respect and follow God’s plan rather than our own. The problem with humans is that each person usually thinks his or her own ideas are the best. Every one of us has our own ideas. We have an opinion on just about every little thing.
So how do we get a church body that is filled with many different ideas and opinions to be unified? By following the plans of someone Who is greater than us. God’s plan is flawless and perfect. If we want to have unity in our relationships we must recognize God’s plan for His church. We should see God as the ultimate authority. We should submit to His plan understanding that He knows what is best for His creation.
The Jews Didn’t want to include the Gentiles because it wasn’t what THEY had in mind. Paul reminds them that it isn’t up to them to decide, and that God has ALWAYS longed for EVERY person to come to salvation.
Why is this important for us? I’ve never heard anyone in the church complain about Gentiles. So whats the application for us? We should be thankful that God wanted Gentiles in the church because thats exactly what we are. If God didn’t include the Gentiles, we would never be a part of the church.
These verses should move us to be grateful that God wanted us. They should also serve as a warning to obey God’s commands over our own. Unity in Christ is created when we recognize God’s plan.
I Peter 1.5 — God’s power protects us because of our faith. If we’re doing our best to follow God, he’ll make sure we’re ready for the end. The Bible is vague on how he does this, but this verse might give the best glimpse into that process: his power keeps us ready. We’re told that none of this will happen in our current life. The exciting new life we’ll have won’t be available until the end.
1.6 — Sounds like a bummer, especially since we might have to go through really hard times because of the unstoppable hope we have.
1.7 — If we make it through these difficulties with our character and confidence intact, God considers that to be more valuable than refined gold. This is the best return-on-investment scenario in God’s eyes.
1.7 — It benefits us, too, though — “when our faith is proven to be pure, the result will be praise and glory and honor when Jesus comes back.” Jesus will showcase his Christian family to the entire world. Millenia of mistreatment and hostility will melt away in an instant. All people throughout earth’s entire history will see how incredible Jesus and his family are. It’s the same terminology as the “glory” a country gets after they win a war. The U.S. stood on the global stage for decades as the most powerful country in world history. When Jesus returns — before we even get to our new home — Christians will experience that on a whole different level. For the first century church and for us today, that means absolute vindication. The world thinks we’re crazy or irrational for believing in an all-powerful God and living a Christian life on a promise we won’t even realize until after we’re dead. Jesus will personally prove them wrong when he comes back!
Nothing makes a problem bigger like feeling discontent. Nothing makes the future dimmer like being discontent. Nothing buys you happiness, no matter the money spent. It breeds greed and disappointment, and above all— the discontent.
According to Psych Central, discontentment leads to some unhealthy ways of coping with anxiety and depression. It can lead us on the never ending chase of those fleeting and euphoric moments which leave one feeling empty inside.
Paul would pen the words, “…I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content” (Phil. 4:11b)
He writes to the church at Philippi, from prison. Paul was no stranger to being wrongly charged as a criminal. He spent several nights behind bars throughout his life, but in Philippians 1:20 he seems to know that his time on earth is coming to an end.
The Romans were notorious for finding the most creative ways of torturing their victims before their final execution. Paul preaches the gospel of a Man who was crucified for His ministry. The thought of a similar death had to have entered into the apostle’s mind. Though the details of any of his anxieties are not recorded, what is recorded is the awe inspiring he uses to describe the kind of faith he has.
In the gloom of a prison cell where there was no doubt a melancholy atmosphere about him, Paul’s mind is thinking of those things which are true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, and commendable. This mindset has led him to be content and at peace. His contentment remained the same regardless of the bleak outside circumstances.
His life teaches us three basic truths about containment.
Anyone can be content through anything— at any time.
Contentment is a recognized and willful dependance on God.
It something that be LEARNED (4:11)
Being a prisoner in Rome had negative social stigmas. Timothy even struggled with Paul’s imprisonment, so what made the church at Philippi listen to his sermon from behind bars? Paul’s unshakable faith and commitment to the work of Christ certainty played a part in that. A lifestyle that can offer hope and peace that no person or circumstance can take from us can speak for itself. Paul demonstrates the power of Christ at work in him to the church at Philippi, and to every congregation that’s ever existed since then.
We have everything we need and don’t deserve because of Jesus— let’s be content.
God has a straightforward task for Saul in 1 Samuel 15. As a consequence for their opposition to Israel as they are fleeing Egypt in the battle where Aaron and Hur hold up Moses’ arm as Joshua leads the battle (Ex. 17:8-16), Amalek was devoted for destruction by God (Deut. 25:17-19)(1 Sam. 15:1-3). God is not ambiguous. He says “devote to destruction all they have” (3) and “do not spare them” whether man, woman, child, infant, or livestock (3).
Saul is given the task of carrying out that total annihilation. He amasses a huge army of 210,000 soldiers and sets out against Amalek (4). After warning the Kenites (5-6; Num. 10:29-32) among the Amalekites to leave or die, Saul and his army thoroughly defeat this enemy (7). Up to this point, Saul’s effort has been nothing but a success!
However, Saul decides to do things the way he thinks is best. While he kills all the people as God instructs, “Saul and the people spared Agag and the best of the sheep and of the oxen and of the fattened calves and the lambs, and all that was good, and would not utterly destroy them. All that was despised and worthless they devoted to destruction” (9). God commanded Saul and he “would not” do it.
Samuel records some pretty chilling words regarding His choice of Saul. God says, “I regret that I made Saul king” (11,35). This is very similar to what God said about humanity in Noah’s day (Gen. 6:6-7). The text reveals several factors that led to God’s grief.
Saul turned back from following God (11)–He followed what he wanted to do
Saul had not performed God’s commandments (11)–He neglected or omitted what God instructed
Saul blamed his followers for this sin (15,21)–He left out his part as decision-maker and pinned it on the people
Saul forgot his humble roots (17)–He allowed his position to go to his head
Saul was disobedient (19)–This was at the very core of Saul’s issues
Saul was greedy (19)–He pounced on the spoil
Saul had no fear of God (19)–He did evil in the very sight of Him
Saul rationalized (20-21)–He claimed to have done what God said except for the “best of the spoil” in order to sacrifice them to God; He reasoned that it was OK since his motives, he claimed, were right.
Saul feared the people and listened to them (24)–He got things backward!
But, that is when Samuel delivers the well-known, oft-quoted response to Saul. He tells the king, ““Has the Lord as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the Lord? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to listen than the fat of rams. For rebellion is as the sin of divination, and presumption is as iniquity and idolatry. Because you have rejected the word of the Lord, he has also rejected you from being king” (22-23). What was going through Saul’s mind? Whatever it specifically was, he decided his way was better than the way God commanded him to go.
God’s attitude toward such a spirit and mindset is crystal clear. God rejects it! It’s obvious that Saul knew what he was doing. His confession of sin reflects he completely understood what he had done wrong (24-25), but he still feels more concerned about his image with the people than his integrity before God (25,30). He falls at Samuel’s feet and tears the prophet’s robe, and Samuel tells him that symbolized how the kingdom has been torn away from him and his descendants (27-29). Samuel tells him he cannot and he will not keep up appearances for Saul’s sake, but he does follow Saul back to the people so that he can finish the job Saul had not done. He kills Agag (32-34). Then, he leaves Saul never to see him again (35). Samuel was far from hard-hearted, but instead grieved over how Saul had turned out.
It is dangerous for us to put question marks where God has put periods and exclamation marks. We have no right to make right what God has clearly deemed wrong, and we’re wrong to make wrong what God has not forbidden. Saul put himself in God’s place and thereby placed himself in spiritual danger. Perhaps worst of all is behaving in such a way that God regrets choosing to use us to accomplish His will because we would not trust and obey! We can always be sure that what God says is right and only His way is the way to go. In case we lose sight of that, we help ourselves by reviewing the sad case of Saul! “Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to listen than the fat of rams” (22).
(Bobby delivered this as a devotional talk at Lehman Avenue on Wednesday, August 30, 2023. He served for several years as a shepherd, until recently. He lost Brenda almost nine months ago. They had been married for 46 years)
Hardship can be defined as severe suffering. Just take a minute and look up and down your pew; I would say, these are the ones that are very near and dear to you! My plead is don’t take these individuals or even tomorrow for granted; We know that every day people are diagnosed with some dreaded disease, and every day, people die. Disease and death are real, just like divorce, addiction, and suicide. Hardships are going to happen; you and I are not the first to suffer from hardship, and we certainly won’t be the last.
Now we know that hardships are going to happen, but what does this look and feel like? Classic examples are feelings of emptiness, loneliness, fear, anger, abandonment, and guilt.
So, if and when hardships come, how to move forward?
I have 6 suggestions:
Make a choice and decide that you don’t have to go through this life counting the months, days, and minutes consumed with these feelings.
Realize that God is not the source of our hardships, Satan is! However, after you blame God (and Christians sometimes do), keep moving through, and realize that we serve a God who cares, a God who loves! He is the ultimate source of healing.
Listen to God; get into His Word, absorb His word, Seek after God’s heart.
Now Believe and trust it, God knows what’s best.
Pray to God and petition for specifics: like healing, comfort, and deliverance.
Get to work. Turn all that energy into action; channel it for God’s work and glory. Realize there are so many others hurting from hardships. Hear their stories and allow them to hear your stories; this will help the healing process.
In summary, hardship will come to you, me, and others. But What an example we have of the Suffering Servant, Jesus Christ our Lord, Savior, and King. So, stay focus on Jesus and continue to point others to Jesus!
Remember Hebrews 12:2: “fixing your eyes on Jesus” … and Matthew 11:28, where Jesus said: “Come to me, all you who are weary and heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”
Understanding Revelation’s Message for Then and Now
Brent Pollard
John wrote the Book of Revelation when the Roman Empire persecuted Christian communities. Emperor Domitian had exiled John to the island of Patmos. So, while in exile during Domitian’s reign, John wrote to encourage other persecuted Christians. Given the focus of the first three chapters on seven specific churches in Asia Minor (i.e., Turkey), as well as the emphasis on this being an urgent message (1.3; 22.10), we can conclude that the original audience of John’s apocalypse was these seven churches located in the heart of the imperial cult.
The imperial cult’s prominence in Asia Minor created significant tensions for Christians in Ephesus and Smyrna, two of the seven cities to which Jesus sent His message. Polycarp, a disciple of John, was martyred in 155 AD in his hometown of Smyrna. Domitian (81–96 AD) declared himself to be a god, adopting the title “Dominus et Deus” (Lord and God). Loyal Romans believed participating in cultic rites was a way to pledge allegiance to the emperor and Rome. We can quickly see how this caused problems for the burgeoning Christian community, which only referred to Jesus as their Lord and God.
The Christian community suffered socioeconomic consequences as a result of this refusal. Evidence shows that participation in the Imperial Cult was a prerequisite for engaging in certain types of business or trade in some parts and times of the Roman Empire. Members of trade guilds, which governed various kinds of commerce and industry, for example, might be expected to participate in the Imperial Cult as part of their membership.
Christians who refused to worship the emperor would have been economically marginalized. It’s no surprise that John compares imperial cult submission to having the “mark of the beast” (Revelation 13.16–18). The gematria system reveals the meaning of the number “666” to be “Nero Caeser.” As such, the beast was Rome, with Nero as the first prominent persecutor of Christians, responsible for the deaths of Peter and Paul, among others.
The calls for faithfulness and warnings against compromise in Jesus’ direct messages to the seven churches would have resonated in the context of the temptation to assimilate and abandon spiritual beliefs for worldly acceptance or prosperity. While the specific nature of persecution differed across time and emperors, the struggles referenced in Revelation reflect a consistent tension between the emergence of Christianity and the Roman imperial system.
Symbols like Babylon the Prostitute and the Beast represent the decadence and oppression of Rome, especially under despotic rulers who declared themselves gods and demanded worship. Revelation transitions from tribulation under oppressive powers to expressing hope in God’s ultimate triumph over evil. This message of persevering faith leading to redemption would have encouraged early Christian communities to face real-world hardships and persecution.
While modern forms of oppression differ, Revelation reminds believers that staying true to one’s values in adversity is critical. Its themes demonstrate that faith and integrity will triumph over darkness. Deliverance comes through steadfast devotion. And, in a world of growing groupthink and social credit systems, Christians in the twenty-first century may need this message of perseverance even in the face of socioeconomic isolation and persecution as a reminder not to bow the knee to anyone but Christ.
Revelation, with its intricate tapestry of symbols, warnings, and prophecies, is a testament to the enduring human spirit in the face of overwhelming oppression. Its timeless message transcends its ancient origins, providing comfort and guidance to generations. As believers faced the might of the Roman Empire in the past, today’s challenges, while different, are no less demanding. Revelation reminds us that faith can move mountains in any age and that the light of truth, no matter how dimmed by adversity, will always find its way.
Hebrews 7:20-28 compares and contrasts Christ to the Levitical priesthood. In these verses Jesus’ Superiority is clearly seen. With Christ we have hope in the future, and with that comes power for the present. Christ is a better hope because He is the Appointed Priest. Being appointed caries with it the idea of being assigned a role or job. Christ has been assigned the role of being our very own priest.
Hebrews 7:20-22 says, “And it was not without an oath. For those who formerly became priests were made such without an oath, but this one was made a priest with an oath by the one who said to him: “The Lord has sworn and will not change his mind, ‘You are a priest forever.'” This makes Jesus the guarantor of a better covenant.”
The Levitical priests were appointed by command. Exodus 28:1-4, “Then bring near to you Aaron your brother, and his sons with him, from among the people of Israel, to serve me as priests—Aaron and Aaron’s sons, Nadab and Abihu, Eleazar and Ithamar. And you shall make holy garments for Aaron your brother, for glory and for beauty. You shall speak to all the skillful, whom I have filled with a spirit of skill, that they make Aaron’s garments to consecrate him for my priesthood. These are the garments that they shall make: a breastpiece, an ephod, a robe, a coat of checker work, a turban, and a sash. They shall make holy garments for Aaron your brother and his sons to serve me as priests.”
God created the role of priests. It was a Divine command, but without an oath. In contrast to this, the great High Priest was made Priest with an oath. Psalm 110:4 says, “The Lord has sworn and will not change his mind, “You are a priest forever after the order of Melchizedek.””
This is a promise joined with an oath. Hebrews 6:17, “So when God desired to show more convincingly to the heirs of the promise the unchangeable character of his purpose, he guaranteed it with an oath.” Jesus is a guarantee of the better covenant appointed by an oath from God, Christ guarantees the new covenant that is better.
Since He is appointed by God, we have direct access through Our Great High Priest. We have hope in knowing that the very Son of God is active in our relationship to the Father. That is a better hope. Beyond anything in the world.
What do you hope for in the future? A better job? More money? A bigger home? If so, know that people get fired, money gets spent, and homes rot away. If our hope is anything but our great High Priest, we have lost sight of what’s most important. Christ is our better hope because He has given us what we need most, a relationship with God the Father.
I Peter 1.1-2 tells us that God chose us a long time ago. This doesn’t mean we have no say, it just means he’s always known who would and wouldn’t follow him. Broadly speaking, it means that he specifically chose Christians to be the ones who leave with him at the end. This means three things: One, he wants us to have a spirit of moral purity. Two, he wants us to obey him. Three, he wants us to be made clean by Jesus’s sacrifice.
1.3-12 — Our reason for living this difficult life is hope. In the context of this letter, hope is the anticipation of what we’ll get after we die. The entire letter points to the next life as our primary incentive for living morally pure lives. When Peter says to do something difficult or painful, he usually follows it up with a reminder that this life is nothing. Everything we do is in view of the next life. Below are a few examples (we’ll look at the rest next week):
1.3 — His mercy gave us new life.
1.3 — This new life makes us live with anticipation for the next life and gives us a powerful, unstoppable hope. We only have this hope because Jesus came back to life, proving that we can and will, too.
1.4 — This new life has us waiting for God to reward us at the end.
1.4 — We know it’s at the end because vs 4 says that it’s being guarded by God for us. Unlike our current life, which is subject to the law of entropy, the next is not capable of wearing down or losing any of its value or novelty. Things that are new and exciting to us in this life can get boring after a while. Hobbies may eventually become an expensive ritual, rather than something that gives fulfillment or excitement or purpose. New Earth has none of that. It’ll be just as exciting on day one trillion as it was on day one!
For some strange reason cultures all over the world have long had an obsession with snakes. Of all creatures in the animal kingdom to worship, the serpent certainly doesn’t make logical sense for a plethora of reasons. The Bible opens with the craftiest beast of creation tempting the woman and successfully bringing about the destruction of mankind. The serpent didn’t have a great track record but somehow managed to become a god that was loved by thousands not long after the flood. We find cultures all over the world who at one point dedicated their entire lives to strikingly similar serpent-like gods.
If we were to look at these eerie similarities through a biblical lens, things begin to make sense. Even though the consequences of that first sin led to death and the entropy of all things, the serpent was still crafty enough to lead the human race to fall. It’s not clear why the snake became a prominent early global symbol but one doesn’t need to stretch the imagination too much in order to develop a convincing theory.
Satan still roamed the earth– Adam and Eve were merely his first victims.
COMPARATIVE SERPENT MYTHOLOGY
Assyria
Ningishzida (Sumerian: 𒀭𒊩𒌆𒄑𒍣𒁕NIN-G̃IŠ-ZID-DA, meaning “Lord [of the] Good Tree”) was a Mesopotamian deity of vegetation, the underworld and sometimes war. He was commonly associated with snakes. Like Dumuzi, he was believed to spend a part of the year in the land of the dead. It’s worth noting that the Sumerian legends sprang up in ancient Mesopotamia— which is where the Genesis account originated.
South America
Quetzalcóatl, Mayan name Kukulcán, (from Nahuatl quetzalli, “tail feather of the quetzal bird [Pharomachrus us mocinno],” and coatl, “snake”), the Feathered Serpent, one of the major deities of the ancient Mexican pantheon.
Ancient Rome
Glycon (Ancient Greek: Γλύκων Glýkōn, gen: Γλύκωνος Glýkōnos), also spelled Glykon, was an ancient snake god. He had a large and influential cult within the Roman Empire in the 2nd century, with contemporary satirist Lucian providing the primary literary reference to the deity.
Norse Legend
In Norse mythology, Jörmungandr (Old Norse: Jǫrmungandr, meaning “huge monster”), also known as the World Serpent (Old Norse: Miðgarðsormr), is a sea serpent, the middle child of the giantess Angrboða and Loki.
India
Shiva is also known as Nageshwar, meaning lord of the snakes. There are temples dedicated to Shiva across the country.
In the eastern religions of Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism, a mythological semi-divine race known as the naga (Sanskrit for “serpent”) took half-human, half-cobra form—although they could shift shapes to fully take on one or the other. The Hindhu god Brahma was said to have banished the naga to their underground kingdom when they overpopulated the earth.
North America
Many old native tribes in America worshipped a horned serpent creature and evidence of this is not only found in oral traditions that have been passed down for thousands of years, but also seen in paintings on rocks in New Mexico, Utah, and Alabama.
Among Cherokee people, a Horned Serpent is called an uktena. Anthropologist James Mooney, describes the serpent creature:
“Those who know say the Uktena is a great snake, as large around as a tree trunk, with horns on its head, and a bright blazing crest like a diamond on its forehead, and scales glowing like sparks of fire. It has rings or spots of color along its whole length, and can not be wounded except by shooting in the seventh spot from the head, because under this spot are its heart and its life. The blazing diamond is called Ulun’suti—”Transparent”—and he who can win it may become the greatest wonder worker of the tribe. But it is worth a man’s life to attempt it, for whoever is seen by the Uktena is so dazed by the bright light that he runs toward the snake instead of trying to escape. As if this were not enough, the breath of the Uktena is so pestilential, that no living creature can survive should they inhale the tiniest bit of the foul air expelled by the Uktena. Even to see the Uktena asleep is death, not to the hunter himself, but to his family.”
Africa
Nehebkau was an Egyptian god depicted as half serpent and half man. Egyptian reliefs and figurines show snakes walking upright like a man, upright with wings, and even as a man with the head of a snake.
Commonly worshipped in the Egyptian 2nd dynasty of ancient Egypt, also known as the Remesside period. Nehebkau has been documented as being worshipped since aprox. 1900 BC— about the time Abraham and Sarah entered Egypt for the first time.
Mamlambo is one of the many gods mentioned in South Africa and Zulu mythology, the “goddess of rivers”, described as a large snake-like creature. There have been several eyewitness accounts of this massive serpent through the years but no tangible evidence.
Europe
Eglė the Queen of Serpents is one of the best-known Lithuanian fairy tales with many references to Baltic mythology.
SERPENTS & ARCHEOLOGY
Serpent Mound Ohio
The Great Serpent was an alleged source of spiritual power that a widespread pre-Columbian culture could call upon to aid them in hunting and even to curing illnesses. In Adams County, Ohio, you can find the largest surviving effigy mound in the world, and it takes the shape of a serpent. From a land based perspective the site doesn’t look like much, but from the air a massive 1,348 foot long snake reveals itself.
The Shaman Staff
In the 1950s a group of ditch diggers on the shores of Rautajarvi Lake in southwest Finland uncovered something unusual— a wooden staff carved into the shape of a serpent. The 4,400-year-old artifact was discovered in a wetland, and is believed to be an ancient shaman’s staff.
A Mysterious Mask
In Mexico at the site of the Pyramid of the Sun, archaeologists dug a 380-foot-long tunnel in the 1930s. In 2011, anthropologists used this tunnel to reach the mother-rock at the bottom of the shaft. There, they discovered a rare cache of treasures including three serpentine human figurines, and an emerald green serpentine mask.
WALKING-SNAKE FOSSIL
Scientists widely accept that snakes originally began with two legs then evolved over millions of years (so they say) and grew two more. There’s no fossil evidence for a four legged snake, but the skeletal remains of a two legged snake have been found. It’s been dubbed Tetrapodophis. A Yale PhD candidate, Daniel Field states that early snakes were, “…stealth hunters and nocturnal. With two small hind legs complete with ankles and toes…”
THE ISHTAR GATE
The Ishtar Gate in Iraq is an enormous burnt-brick gate which loomed over the main thoroughfare of ancient Babylon. It has depictions of hundreds of lions, bulls, and a strange looking four legged snakelike dragon. Interestingly, the back legs of the serpent have claws— just like the fossil of the Tetrapodophis. According to the Mesopotamian Museum of Art, the dragon represented the Babylonian god, Marduk.
EXTRA BIBLICAL REFERENCES
Herodotus casually mentions that there were snakes that would fly from Egypt every year from the Sinai wilderness (Herodotus 2.75-76). This may strike fear in the heart of any snake-fearing person, but it sure is interesting.
Marco Polo would also write in his travel log about flying venomous “birds” as well as snakes of gigantic proportions as he explored Asia. It could be that ancient eye witness reports of flying snakes of the ancient world were pterosaurs. Biblical categorization of animals and our modern binomial nomenclature are different. In Genesis, all creatures dwelling in the oceans were created on the same day and called fish. That includes whales, which we place in the mammal family since they breathe air. The Hebrew word for fish is the word “dag” but it could be used to describe a water dwelling reptile or mammal as well.
SERPENTS IN SCRIPTURE
Snakes on Fire
The Bible records several strange serpents and one passage in particular is especially fascinating.
In the book of Numbers there’s an account that’s made many readers scratch their heads as they wonder what these fiery (possibly flying) serpents are (21:6-9) which God sent to plague the Israelites.
Some have suggested that perhaps the strange description is of a particular kind of venomous snake. Others have made the observation that the Hebrew word for serpent here (Saraph) could be symbolic to indicate their color since it means “burning ones.” Interestingly enough there are bronze colored serpents around today in Australia that are incredibly poisonous. Perhaps there’s something to this based on the Lord’s instruction to Moses to fashion a serpent made of brass. Of course this description could also literally be taken to mean snakes which either breathed fire, or were somehow on fire. God was, after all, punishing people who had complained of their miraculous meals of manna.
The Great Serpent Connected to the Leviathan
“In that day, the LORD will punish with his sword— his fierce, great and powerful sword— Leviathan the gliding (fleeing) serpent, Leviathan the coiling serpent; he will slay the monster of the sea” (Isa. 27.1)
“And he laid hold of the dragon, the serpent of old, who is the devil and Satan, and bound him for a thousand years;” (Rev. 20.2)
The Serpent Defeated In The Battle of Heaven
“The pillars of the heavens quake, aghast at his rebuke.
By his power he churned up the sea; by his wisdom he cut Rahab (Leviathan) to pieces.
By his breath the skies became fair; his hand pierced the fleeing serpent” (Job 26.11-13)
The Horned Serpent
“Dan shall be a serpent in the way, A horned snake in the path, That bites the horse’s heels, So that his rider falls backward” (Gen. 49.17)
Likely referring to the horned viper which lives in the Sahara desert. Its name comes from two prominent scales protruding behind its eyes that resemble horns.
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