Interesting conversations with godly people are some the best ways you can stir your desire to get into His word more. Studying the Bible will always bring to the surface questions we didn’t even know we had— along with the answers to the most important questions you could ask. Here’s an idea. Find somebody with a wealth of Biblical knowledge and create a shared note on your cell phone or computer. If there’s something on your mind or something you’d like to know more about, it helps to have another brain working to help you get to the bottom of it. It’s also a great way to keep you thinking about Biblical subjects! Below is a portion of a shared note that my brother and I have had for months now (Gary’s input is italicized and correspond with the numbers you see). Thoughts On The Serpent
The serpent was crafty and could walk. Why this animal? Its craftiness seems to be linked with its intelligence (1). When the subject of possession is brought up, demons typically come to mind. The possessor of the serpent (2) seems to change form once again as Satan is described as “walking about on the earth” (Job 1) and traveling to the pinnacle of the temple (Matt. 4.5). Satan’s mobility had improved since the removal of his serpentine legs (3). Could it be that he was never a serpent from the beginning? What if he merely chose the animal for reasons unknown, and used his intelligence to utilize this particular creature’s capabilities. If the serpent changed his form to the Leviathan, then that would be a logical explanation for his mobility in Job (4). A mighty beast, with unnatural intelligence (5) that humans couldn’t tame. This would also explain how humans are able to dominate and tame all animals (Gen. 1.26-28) but weren’t able to tame the beasts in Job.
(1) Rev 12.9; 20.2
(2) Satan is always portrayed as a serpent…except when he isn’t (i.e., cursed to crawl in Genesis, walking in Job 1 & 2, flying in synoptic gospels at temptation of Jesus, moving tactically in I Peter). I have to think that, like the angels, he had the ability to project his consciousness into non-sentient beings (i.e., no free-will override), or disguise himself as humanoid (II Cor 11.14; Gen 3.18; Heb 13.2). We know very little about who/what satan really is, but because he was a fixture in God’s entourage before banished to earth, I have to assume he was a watcher of some kind.
(3) A curse that improves mobility is no longer, by definition, a curse.
(4) God specifically names Leviathan as the pinnacle of his non-human creation. He would not have extolled leviathan if its characteristics were synonymous with the accuser in Job 1, 2. This would also imply a duality of personhood never attributed to satan (i.e., existing as two entities simultaneously). Since this predates Jesus’s arrival by probably 4500 years, satan is likely still in the accuser position in God’s entourage. This would make him a powerful cosmic being with the same abilities other watchers enjoyed. When he became the ruler of planet earth, his power was “chained” or throttled (II Cor 4.4; Eph 2.2; Lk 10.18; Rev 20.1-15).
(5) I was unable to verify the leviathan’s unnatural intelligence, but Job does describe its unnatural strength.
Happy studies! I hope this inspires you to begin your own interesting conversations.
It becomes clear from reading the second letter to the Corinthians that Paul feels the need to defend himself and his actions among his readers. He feared that he had been misunderstood in his previous work among them (cf. 1:12-14). In fact, it seems as though this is the purpose of the letter (look also at 5:11-12). If you remember from the first letter, he had some pretty challenging and unpopular things to say about how they were behaving. It’s not far-fetched to think that some of them not only would not appreciate what he said, but would attack him as the messenger for saying it. Sometimes, however lovingly and kindly we share the truth, it will offend the hearer who, instead of repenting, tries to undermine the one who said it. As we read this section, think of Paul as a man, just like his audience, who has feelings, struggles, difficulties, and temptations, too. He also needed them to know that it was because he cared so much about them that he would not “shrink from declaring to [them] anything that was profitable” (cf. Acts 20:20). What drove Paul to minister to the Corinthians? Notice several things he says in 2 Corinthians one.
THE GRACE OF GOD (12)
He would not boast in himself, whether his abilities or knowledge or influence. Those are empty and unsatisfying. His motives were pure and he was helped by a grace he wanted them to appreciate, too. When we understand our need of God’s grace, it will move us to give Him our all in response.
THE JUDGMENT DAY OF GOD (13-14)
Paul wanted them to be able to legitimately boast together and of one another at “the day of the Lord” (cf. 5:10). The word “boast” in modern English has negative connotations–bragging, arrogance, and sinful pride. Paul wanted to have confidence in them as they faced this Day, as confident as he hoped they were of him in view of it. We should share the whole counsel of God to make sure people are ready for the most important day of all.
THE PROMISES OF GOD (20)
He shared the positive and negative, the promises and the warnings, because he knew God meant what He said. He would not equivocate or talk out of both sides of his mouth. He was going to give them “the whole purpose of God” (cf. Acts 20:27). He knew God was the supreme promise-keeper (2 Tim. 4:8; 2 Cor. 5:11-14).
THE GLORY OF GOD (20)
Paul taught them for the glory of God. The Word is God’s. The promises are God’s. The salvation is from God. How silly for the fragile pottery to brag (4:7); the glory belongs to the Potter. Anything worthwhile we accomplish is always because of God.
THE WORKING OF GOD (21-22)
Paul was moved by the knowledge that God is the one who establishes men (21), sets us apart (21), and gives us His Spirit (22). Knowing this, we should share Him with people so that God can accomplish His work in their lives.
THE WITNESS OF GOD (23-24)
Wise teachers and preachers will remember that God is watching their work. He can see where no one else can–our hearts and motives. Knowing He knows me inside and out, I will check myself and do His work to bring the joy and strength of the hearers (23-24).
THE PEOPLE OF GOD (2:1-4)
We should be moved by genuine love and concern for people. Those who share the word should share life with those who receive the word from them. Building relationships, being together in all the ups and downs of life, is what it is all about. It’s hard to imagine staying motivated to share the gospel with people we isolate ourselves from.
Perhaps there are some preachers and teachers who just love beating up on their listeners (or readers). Motivation is individual to each one (Phil. 1:15-17). I have to believe that every faithful proclaimer wants not only to please God but also help as many people as possible go to heaven. There are so many great reasons why Christians should want to share God’s Word with others. Paul gives us a handful of them here.
In Matthew 15:14, Jesus said, “If the blind lead the blind both will end up falling in a pit.” Moses taught Joshua and Joshua knew what to do, but now Joshua would have to go without Moses. Joshua could still be a successful leader without Moses being with him, as long as he followed the way Moses set for him. I have three points to share with you today.
The first one is that God was with him. In Joshua 1, towards the end of verse 5, God said as he was with Moses he will always be with Joshua. Let’s say you just started a new job and have no idea what you’re doing. Your boss is never there and your coworkers don’t know what to do either. The job wouldn’t be a good job and you would be very unsuccessful. Joshua had to remember that God was with him because he had seen all the things that Moses had done when God was with Moses. Just as Moses had done, Joshua could do the same things with God by his side. In Matthew 28:20, just like with Joshua, God promises to be with us.
The second point is that Joshua had to be strong and courageous. According to Webster’s dictionary, courage means the quality of mind that enables a person to face difficulty, danger, pain, etc., with firmness and without fear. On your job during the week you go through pain but you know what’s coming at the end of it so you go through anything to get that paycheck. Going back to the first point, God was with Joshua. Joshua should have had no fear because God was with him. Joshua 1:6-7 says “Be strong and courageous, for you shall cause these people to inherit the land that I swore to their fathers to give them. Only be strong and very courageous, being careful to do according to all the law that Moses my servant commanded you. Do not turn from it to the right hand or to the left, that you may have good success wherever you go.” What we need to do is be like Joshua and learn from our parents or even other people in the congregation so that we can not only learn to do what is commanded but what we need to teach others. Joshua was not the only one who needed to be strong and courageous, we all do. Tom staltman is the world’s strongest man. He’s pretty strong but no one can match the strength of Christian’s if we follow God’s word.
The last point is that Joshua had to read the word of God regularly and stick with it. The reason he had to read and memorize the word was so that he could faithfully lead God’s people in the right direction. Joshua 1:7-8 says, “Only be strong and very courageous, being careful to do according to all the law that Moses my servant commanded you. Do not turn from it to the right hand or to the left, that you may have good success wherever you go. This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success.”
If we read the word of God and meditate on it and remember it, we will be very successful in all that we do. I would like to end this point by reading a couple of passages. Psalm 1:1-2 tells us, “Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers;but his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night.“ And the other passage is Matthew 4:4, where Jesus answered, ‘Man shall not live by bread alone but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.”
In Joshua 1, I would say the theme is obedience to God and his law. It is mentioned in verse 8 of the chapter that if we make our way prosperous we will be successful in all that we do.
The election is over – or is it? Some states are still counting ballots as of this writing. Nevertheless, it doesn’t change our responsibility to those God’s Providence has placed into leadership over us. One needs to remember several things about government. First, God “changes the times and the periods; He removes kings and appoints kings….” (Daniel 2.21 NASB). As Nebuchadnezzar testified, “the Most High is ruler over the realm of mankind, and He grants it to whomever He wishes” (Daniel 4.17 NASB). Second, God gave them the authority to punish the evildoer (Romans 13.1-7). Thus, they have a heavenly mandate. Third, we must give them what they are due: taxes (Matthew 22.15-22). Fourth, we must lift their names to the Heavenly Father (1 Timothy 2.1-3). Finally, we must give them honor (1 Peter 2.17).
In addition to these five principles, Solomon suggests ways to interact with those who would rule over us wisely. I will present them in their order of appearance in the book of Proverbs.
Never put a leader in a bad light; doing so would be detrimental to both of you. While we have a constitutional right to criticize because the First Amendment protects it, that doesn’t mean we have to or should.
“The king’s favor is toward a servant who acts wisely, but his anger is toward him who acts shamefully” (Proverbs 14.35 NASB).
This reminder holds more weight for someone who works directly for the leader, but it’s still a principle to which we should all adhere. A leader can make our lives difficult, whether his reasoning is justified or motivated by vanity. Of course, we can address such issues at the ballot box, but in the meantime, we must act prudently.
Don’t be a “yes-man.” When we addressed leaders last week, we included advice on “yes-men.” Indeed, a leader should not surround himself with such sycophants. But we should not try to appease our leaders by becoming the “yes-men” that the Bible condemns.
“Righteous lips are the delight of kings, and one who speaks right is loved” (Proverbs 16.13 NASB).
While taking care not to contradict the first point above, we should still righteously speak when asked. A leader who is worth his salt appreciates a truthful constituent.
Leaders prefer those who can articulate their morals. The idea is that a leader will discover in you a deserving individual to offer advice when he needs it.
“One who loves purity of heart and whose speech is gracious, the king is his friend” (Proverbs 22.11 NASB).
Set yourself apart with your skills. In the years following the upheaval of the Civil War, African Americans continued to confront discrimination and repression, making progress toward their goals challenging. As a result, different perspectives on the way forward emerged. As a result of one such way of thinking, NAACP founder W.E.B. Dubois established an organization to promote the advancement of African Americans. Alternatively, Booker T. Washington opened the Tuskegee Institute to appeal to a competing viewpoint among members within the black community.
Washington believed that if blacks possessed a necessary skill that made them an indispensable part of the community, prejudiced whites in the South would accept them as peers, even if reluctantly. I’m not here to argue which of these men was correct, but I will say that Solomon would have likely supported the latter. Solomon saw one’s trade as a way to distinguish himself and attract the attention of kings.
“Do you see a person skilled in his work? He will stand before kings; He will not stand before obscure people” (Proverbs 22.29 NASB).
The best way to get the attention of a captain of industry or the President of the United States is to develop a skill to make your presence necessary. It will prevent you from living an ordinary life.
Exercise restraint when in their presence. Sitting down to dine with a world leader would be exciting, especially if you eat at their expense. However, you may make a terrible impression if you are not self-disciplined. I understand that it is unlikely that any of us will be dining with the king, but we might get an invite from our boss. The principle is the same.
“When you sit down to dine with a ruler, consider carefully what is before you, And put a knife to your throat if you are a person of great appetite. Do not desire his delicacies, for it is deceptive food” (Proverbs 23.1-3 NASB).
I read a legend (as Snopes refers to it) about an employer who conducted job interviews over dinner. This employer evaluated applicants on whether they added salt to food without tasting it to determine if it was necessary. The reasoning is that it shows impulsiveness and a failure to analyze data before deciding. Furthermore, it is impolite to your host because it implies that you do not trust his dining establishment preferences.
The bottom line is that whether a king or a boss, no one likes someone who will run up expense accounts and exercise no self-control.
Be humble. Solomon’s advice was undoubtedly the source of our Lord’s future warning in Luke 14.7-11 against seeking the chief seats. If your host wishes to seat someone else in your chair, you will be embarrassed. So instead, find a secluded spot and wait for the host to invite you to the guest of honor table.
“Do not boast in the presence of the king, and do not stand in the same place as great people; For it is better that it be said to you, ‘Come up here,’ Than for you to be placed lower in the presence of the prince, whom your eyes have seen” (Proverbs 25.6-7 NASB).
The reason that leaders like the humble are because they are typically better team players. The humble also learn from their mistakes. And best of all, the humble lead by example. As the Chinese say, “Not the cry, but the flight of a wild duck, leads the flock to fly and follow.”
Be Persistent. Some commentators believe that Jesus was thinking of our last proverb when He gave the parable of the Unjust Judge in Luke 18.1-8. At least, brother Burton Coffman noted that in the 1901 American Standard Version, the translators felt they could substitute the word judge for the word ruler in Proverbs 25.15.
“Through patience a ruler may be persuaded, and a gentle tongue breaks bone” (NASB).
It would be impolite to refer to the woman about whom Jesus spoke as a nag, but she did so tire the unjust judge with her numerous inquiries that the judge eventually tipped the scales of justice in her favor. We think of using violence to persuade others, but the truth is that pleading with them can be just as effective. When we require our elected officials’ assistance, anger is not an appealing method of obtaining it. It is preferable to use a gentle tongue to break their bones through persistent questioning and insistence that they hear our plight.
I chose these Scriptures because they all dealt with subjects who had dealings with the king or ruler. However, I believe we can see how they apply to other relationships in which one person is of a lower station than the other. Remember what another wise man said to my grandfather Pollard years ago about our newly elected leaders: “Democrat or Republican, I still have to go to work.” Indeed, we all have a responsibility to those who exercise authority over us, and we can also treat them properly to endear ourselves to them.
At the 1993 annual meeting of The American Heart Association, 300,000 doctors, nurses, and researchers met in Atlanta to discuss, among other things, the importance a low fat diet plays in keeping our hearts healthy. Yet during meal times, they consumed fat-filled fast foods such as bacon cheeseburgers and fries at about the same rate as people from other conventions. When one cardiologist was asked whether or not his partaking in high fat meals set a bad example, he replied, “Not me, because I took my name tag off.”
Seeing hypocrisy in the church has caused many people to fall away. Sadly there are some who claim to be Christians, and it’s in name only. These people often give the church a bad reputation. Many in the world look at the church and say that it runs rampant with hypocritical people.
Being a Christian means following Christ all the time. No natter the circumstances. We can’t just “take our name tag off” so to speak. People are always watching. They’re looking to us on how to act. 1 Thessalonians 2:9 reads, “For you recall, brethren, our labor and hardship, how working night and day so as not to be a burden to any of you, we proclaimed to you the gospel of God.”
Paul and the other apostles showed the Christians at Thessalonica, by example, how to act. Notice what Paul says: “For you recall, brethren, our labor and hardship.” The Thessalonians could look back and remember the example that the Apostles gave for them to follow. Are we like this? Or are we all talk? People will follow the examples that our actions portray.
The example that our actions set are powerful.
So the question is, “what kind of example are we setting?” We can have only two types of example–good or bad. Our example, whether good or bad, can decide the eternal fate of those that see our actions. Paul and the apostles set a great example for the church at Thessalonica.
Paul writes in Philippians 4:9, “What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.” We see from this how Paul’s example was so good that he tells the Philippians to practice it and God would be with them. Are we confident enough to say this to another Christian? We must be careful that we show by the way we live that we truly believe what we preach to others.
I’ll be repeating the book of I John in present-day terminology. It’s not a true translation of the book, as I am not qualified to do so. It will be based on an exegetical study of the book and will lean heavily on the SBL and UBS Greek New Testaments, as well as comparisons with other translations (ESV, NASB, NIV, ERV, NLT). My goal is to reflect the text accurately, and to highlight the intent of the author using concepts and vocabulary in common use today.
This is not an “essentially literal” translation, and should be read as something of a commentary.
Jesus Christ is the one who came to earth with water and blood — notice that he didn’t just come here through water, but also with his own blood. And the true spirit attested to this, because it’s true. In fact, there are three proofs of who Jesus is: the true spirit, the water, and the blood. All three of these agree with each other. We accept what people say about Jesus when it’s true, but God’s testimony about Jesus is far superior.
This is what God said: if you keep believing that Jesus is God’s son, you have God’s approval. If you don’t believe God, you make him a liar. It means you never believed what God said about his son. God gave us eternal life, which exists only in his son. If you have his son, you have life. If you don’t have the son, you don’t have life.
“But be sure to fear the Lord and serve him faithfully with all your heart; consider what great things he has done for you.”
1 Samuel 12.24
When this passage is taken out of the events unfolding in this chapter, it seems like a great verse to remind us to be grateful for God’s blessings. While that application could certainly be made, here’s the context.
God’s desire for His people is rejected. Unlike the surrounding ancient cultures and nations, Israel had no king. Instead, they were to have men chosen by God to serve as their judge. The temptation to establish an earthly king became so great among the Israelites that they gave in and decided to oppose the Lord’s leadership strategy.
Samuel is in the final stretch of his life and guided by God’s direction, he allows the people to have what they wanted— but not what they needed.
Samuel replies to the people’s cry for a king and here’s our verse in context.
“You have done all this evil; yet do not turn away from the Lord, but serve the Lord with all your heart. Do not turn away after useless idols. They can do you no good, nor can they rescue you, because they are useless.For the sake of his great name the Lord will not reject his people, because the Lord was pleased to make you his own.As for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the Lord by failing to pray for you. And I will teach you the way that is good and right.But be sure to fear the Lord and serve him faithfully with all your heart; consider what great things he has done for you.Yet if you persist in doing evil, both you and your king will perish.”
Samuel wasn’t merely encouraging the people to be grateful for what they have as it might seem on the surface. He was reminding them to not reject the King of Kings after their earthly king fails them. When we make poor decisions and are forced to pay the consequences, the worst possible move would be a move away from God. Taking ownership of the trouble we bring into our lives is vital to future faithfulness. Difficult lessons are, by definition, not a joyful experience. Things could always be worse, but things could always be better. At the end of the day it comes down to which king we decide to serve.
“My son, do not despise the LORD’s discipline, and do not resent his rebuke…”
For some, it’s their wallets. But, “beware, and be on your guard against every form of greed; for not even when one has an abundance does his life consist of his possessions” (Luke 12:15).
For some, it’s their walls.Whether the one at our national border or the ones around our home. National security is important. Law and order derives from God and Scripture (Rom. 13:1-7; 1 Pet. 2:13-14). But, remember, “Unless the LORD builds the house, they labor in vain who build it; Unless the LORD guards the city, the watchman keeps awake in vain” (Psa. 127:1). There should be higher motivation.
For some, it’s wokeness. Whether to protect hyper-racism or to combat cancel culture, some on either side will be driven by this issue. This certainly has been central to those whose vote is driven by education matters. Yet, it is so easy to let subjective ideas supplant God’s authoritative Word. We must be convicted by the truth of Jesus’ words in John 12:48: “He who rejects Me and does not receive My sayings, has one who judges him; the word I spoke is what will judge him at the last day.”
For some, it’s the womb. How sobering to vote in support of taking the life of the unborn or to be motivated by such. May we remember that one of the things God hates are “hands that shed innocent blood” (Prov. 6:16)!
For some, it’s worry. It may be general unease and anxiety about the “direction” of our country. There’s a fine line between civic duty and sinful worry. God is always on His throne. As ever, “…the Most High is ruler over the realm of mankind and bestows it on whomever He wishes” (Dan. 4:32).
For some, it’s the Word. The continued ability to teach the gospel to the lost, to worship together according to that Word, and to live according to God’s Word should underlie everything we do. That includes informing our votes in elections. But, may we keep in mind what the angel tells Zechariah to tell Zerubbabel: “‘Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit,’ says the LORD of hosts” (Zech. 4:6). No election, however favorable to our convictions, is a substitute for making disciples (Mat. 28:18-20).
Many say “democracy is on the ballot,” though what that means depends on who says it. Hopefully, we all prayerfully deliberate and do our best to align everything we believe, endorse, and encourage with what the Word says! But when we leave the voting booth, we need to “go into all the world” and give them what they need more than anything–the hope of eternal life!
Do you have a “debt problem”? According to credit service, Experian, the average credit card debt per household is $5,315 (Wallethub puts it at $7,849). Renting money comes at a high cost with exorbitant interest. Perhaps you or a loved one have faced an enormous debt, medical costs, business or student loans, or a mortgage that made for uncomfortable living? Most of us know how that feels, to one degree or another. We don’t like the thought of owing someone. It gives them power and control over us (read Prov. 22:7). Perhaps you are one of those who can say that you don’t owe anyone–not the credit card companies, the mortgage company, the automobile dealers, etc. But you are still in debt! So am I.
Luke reveals a dinner party with a very diverse cast of characters (Luke 7:36-50). There’s Simon, a Pharisee, who plays host (36). There are several dinner guests (49), but sinless Jesus, God in the flesh, is the guest of honor (36). Then, there was a woman who crashed the party, whose name Luke doesn’t give us but who instead is identified by her lifestyle–“a woman in the city who was a sinner” (37). The Pharisees were the custodians of the Old Law (Mat. 23:2). Simon would be a man of great reputation, one who we’d think would not be the indebted type. This unnamed woman was the opposite.
Such is the setting that allows Jesus to drive home a powerful point about debt. The woman, with a visibly enormous, spiritual debt, spends money (Mark and John record a similar incident where the contents were worth as much as 300 denarii, or almost a year’s wages), sacrifices dignity, submits humble service, and shows significant emotion (37-38). Apparently, “who” she was was well-known and she had nothing to lose and everything to gain. She is the picture of transparency and need.
Apparently, Simon is at the other end of the spectrum, physically, socially, and, at least on the surface, spiritually. In fact, he sits in judgment of Jesus for allowing the woman to be so familiar with Him, thinking to himself, “If this man were a prophet He would know who & what sort of person this woman is who is touching Him, that she is a sinner” (39).
Jesus, able to read Simon’s thoughts, uses them as a launching point to teach that vital point about spiritual indebtedness. He shares the parable of two debtors. There was a disparity between the two debts, but neither could repay what they owed. The lender forgives both debts, no strings attached. Who would feel the greater depth of gratitude and affection? The answer is obvious, and Jesus makes application.
He points to how humbly and freely the woman expresses her love and appreciation to Jesus, while Simon is negligent in all the ways she was demonstrative. Jesus points out that this is about faith and forgiveness (47-50). The Lord doesn’t deny that the magnitude of the woman’s sinfulness is enormous (47), but He fully and freely forgives her. Simon’s disadvantage is not as apparent, but is definitely serious. Was he prideful? Self-righteous? Judgmental? There are definitely signs of such struggles in his life.
It is dangerous to live a life of sin and rebellion against God’s will. Too many never come to grips with their need for faith and forgiveness. But, it is at least as dangerous to be blind to our sin problem or to rationalize and minimize its effect upon our lives. This woman teaches us to be transparent with God and others, to acknowledge our debt, to ask the only one capable of forgiving it to do so, and then to live with humble gratitude and renewed resolve and purpose. Because, whether we admit it or not, we all have an insurmountable debt we cannot repay without His help.
When I was in high school, my main extracurricular activity was band—concert and marching. Concert band was a challenge from time to time, but it was marching band that really put everyone to the test. After all, there is a major physical aspect to the activity.
The summer between my sophomore and junior year was a particularly hot one in Oxford, MS. It was difficult. The hot sun was constantly beating down on us, and if the sun weren’t killing us the temperature was high enough to make our knees buckle. We were fatigued and mentally exhausted as the summer went on.
One of those days was very windy and there were patches of clouds—a very welcome change. We didn’t think anything of it. Some of us didn’t even put on sunscreen that day because the sun wasn’t just constantly beating down on us. But on that day it wasn’t the sun nor the temperature that got us. It was something that we didn’t even think twice about. In fact, we thought it was a good thing. On that particular day many of the band got windburns after being outside for more than 6 hours.
It shocked me just how quickly something that we thought was harmless or even helpful could be so damaging. Those strong and gusty wind that helped cool us off initially, when we were exposed to it for hours, turned out to be an even bigger problem than the sun itself.
——————
Whether it be 1 Peter 5:8, 1 Thessalonians 5:6-8, or the pastoral epistles, the New Testament is ripe with the idea of staying sober and vigilant. But why? Why is it so necessary for us to stay awake and be aware? Most of us are spiritually upright and good people, in the sense that we have good moral compasses and have a relatively heightened conscience. We do not go out and actively commit crimes, hurt others, or drown ourselves with vices.
But what does still plague all of us, no matter where we are in life, are the seemingly small and insignificant things we ignore. Things that we may not even bat an eye when we do and behaviors that we may even think is helpful—it’s those “little” sins that gnaw away at the connective parts that keep our armor of faith together.
As a termite eats away at a house hundreds of thousands of times its mass causing permanent and significant damages, there are these little things that go under our radar that—give it enough time—can completely break down what we have built in terms of our faith.
To those of us who are not Christians yet, it may be that thing that you keep doing in your life that you know deep inside that causes dysfunction and problems but you write off because it’s not as “big” as some of the other bad stuff that people do.
To those of us who are Christians it may be something a bit more secretive, those hidden sins that we do not address—letting it fester and rot from the inside.
You see, the things that get most of us aren’t the outright terrible and unforgivable crimes. It’s the small lies that we tell. The little things we try to keep from God. The secret sin that eat away at our relationships and our integrity.
What are those things to you? What red flags are you ignoring in your life? What are you justifying? What are you constantly engaging in that you think is helping but instead is killing you? Give it enough time, and even a tiny trickle of water can split rocks. Even a small breeze can burn your skin with enough exposure.
The reality of sin is all the same. It is something we must all be vigilant and aware to actively prevent and avoid.
Since next Tuesday is Election Day, it seems appropriate to reflect on the Proverbs’ teachings on leadership. Of course, those in positions of authority would do well to consider all the wisdom in the book of Proverbs. But there are eight passages they would do well to contemplate that speak specifically to those exercising secular authority. Here they are in the order of their appearance.
If you don’t help the people you lead, you won’t be in charge for long.
“In a multitude of people is a king’s glory, But in the scarcity of people is a prince’s ruin” (Proverbs 14.28 NASB). This verse tells us two things: 1) You cannot be a leader if no one is willing to follow, and 2) Deprivation will make your constituency turn on you.
What you say will get greater attention, so carefully choose your words.
“A divine verdict is on the lips of the king; His mouth should not err in judgment” (Proverbs 16.10 NASB). This verse does not mean that leaders are infallible, as some interpreted in the past, but rather that people put more weight on a leader’s words.
You cannot turn a blind eye to evil.
“A king who sits on the throne of justice disperses all evil with his eyes. A wise king scatters the wicked, And drives a threshing wheel over them.”(Proverbs 20.8,26 NASB).
One of the reasons God gives men authority is to wield the sword against the evildoer (Romans 13.4). As a result, being lenient toward lawbreakers harms the dominion over which you exercise control.
Taxation should not be excessive.
“The king gives stability to the land by justice, But a person who takes bribes ruins it” (Proverbs 29.4 NASB).
Commentators agree that this speaks of excessive taxation. I doubt any of us would view paying taxes as equal to a bribe, but it speaks to the ruler’s greed. Do you recall what happened when Rehoboam took the wrong advice and increased the already excessive tax burden on the people? The ten northern tribes of Israel broke away and formed a new kingdom under King Jeroboam (1 Kings 12.6ff).
Avoid surrounding yourself with “yes-men.”
“If a ruler pays attention to falsehood, All his ministers become wicked” (Proverbs 29.12 NASB).
People in power often attract sycophants who may speak lies that the ruler finds favorable. If he is the type who delights in those stroking his ego, he might discover himself surrounded by those seeking to use him to accomplish their means.
Don’t forget that your constituency includes people who can’t help you.
“If a king judges the poor with truth, His throne will be established forever” (Proverbs 29.14 NASB).
A popular leader fights for fair treatment for all citizens, especially the poor unable to lobby their cause. If you’ll also note that type of character wins one re-election.
If you want to further your political career, stay away from scandal.
“Do not give your strength to women, Or your ways to that which destroys kings. It is not for kings, Lemuel, It is not for kings to drink wine, Or for rulers to desire intoxicating drink” (Proverbs 31.3-4 NASB).
Those in positions of authority are surrounded by more than just sycophants. Additionally, they have domestic and foreign foes. One strategy used by these foes involves the fairer sex. A honey trap is a name for this kind of strategy. Honey trapping entails luring a target into a romantic or sexual relationship to gain access to sensitive information. Recent history in the U.S. Congress reveals at least one Representative who fell victim to such a trap, having a relationship with an agent of communist China.
Persons in authoritative roles should never partake in excessive drinking. You may say or do something you will regret in a drunken state. People suspect one now-deceased politician murdered a political operative with whom he may have been having an affair while driving drunk in his car. His stature, however, protected him from even being arrested. While it did not end his political career, it derailed his chances of ever becoming President of the United States.
This list is not exhaustive. Further, Solomon discusses the proper way to interact with those in authority. However, the points I’ve made here appear particularly relevant during this election season.
Romans 8:26 says, “Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words.”
We don’t like to be weak. Admitting weakness means admitting we are powerless. It means that we have to accept that we can’t fix our problems on our own. As humans we sometimes don’t like to admit that we need help. It’s in our nature to try and take care of our own problems.
The problem is that if we want to have a relationship with God, we have to admit that we are weak. We must come to terms with the fact that we are helpless without God. Sin has separated us from God. We are weak, but the Spirit helps us with this weakness. Paul uses the word astheneai, meaning a “lack of confidence or feeling of inadequacy.” The Spirit restores our confidence through prayer. The Spirit takes the inadequate, and makes it adequate.
Our weakness is taken away by the Spirit, and the only hurdle left is our own humanity. We need to understand that we can have confidence in prayer. We should also accept the fact that we need God’s help. How wonderful that our God can hear us even with our weakness!
In Matthew 27 we find the start of what appears to be a mixture of supernatural and natural phenomena.
Clearly, Matthew, Mark, and Luke (the inspired authors of the synoptic gospels) make an airtight case for the diety of Jesus. Additionally, three extra biblical historians validate their accounts as well: Thallus, Africanus (the name of Janelle’s and my future first born— I hope), and Phlegon.
The Darkness
“From noon until three in the afternoon darkness came over the land.” Matt. 27.45
Phlegon records in the 2nd Century AD,
“…in the time of Tiberius Caesar, at full moon, there was a full eclipse of the sun from the sixth hour to the ninth—manifestly that one of which we speak. But what has an eclipse in common with an earthquake, the rending of rocks, and the resurrection of the dead, and so great a perturbation throughout the universe? Surely no such event as this is recorded for a long period. But it was a darkness induced by God, because the Lord happened then to suffer.”
Not that we need Phlegon to confirm what God told us three times, but it’s interesting!
The Earthquake That Freed The Dead
Beginning in v.51ff, an earthquake splits the veil in the temple. The veil wasn’t a thin piece of fabric either— it’s thickness was equivalent to a man’s hand.
Next, the earthquake (used directly or providentially by God) cracks the circular stones open and the dead walk the earth. There’s some discussion over the identity of these “Saints” or “Holy ones” but it’s likely that they are followers of God who died in the past. Whether they were faithful servants that we read about in the Old Testament or followers of Jesus who were killed for their loyalty isn’t made clear in the text. My personal opinion on the matter is that they are Old Testament followers of God as this would indicate to “many” that a new Covenant or Testament is being fulfilled. These risen ancient followers would effectively convince those following the Jewish religion that Jesus is now who they should look to, and not Moses or Elijah (see the Transfiguration, Matt.17).
The Timeline Of Events
View One Of Chronology:
“The dead rise with Christ.”
Matthew captures the magnitude of Jesus’ death on the cross by describing the abnormal events surrounding his death in chapter 27. It’s important that the reader keep in mind the goal of the letter, and that’s Jesus. The tombs splitting open, then, likely occurred during the death of Jesus. After three days, the dead would then emerge along with Jesus and appear to many.
Matthew records what literally takes place, then, as well as alludes to the Day of His return. On that Day, all of the dead in Christ will rise.
View Two Of Chronology:
“The dead rose first before Jesus.”
The Bible is saturated in types and apocalyptic language. The New Testament brings a new light and depth to the things of the past. For instance, the flood account directs our minds to the second destruction of earth. The crossing of the Red Sea alludes to baptism. The blueprint of the tabernacle is symbolic of church and the entrance to her.
With that in mind, 1 Thessalonians 4.16 says,
“For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a cry of command, with the voice of an Archangel, and with the sound of the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first.”
This seems to indicate an order of resurrection. Those who followed God in life— rise first. This would fit beautifully with Matthew’s record of events in Matthew 27.
View Three of Chronology:
“The dead rise at the death of Christ, but enter Jerusalem three days later with Jesus.”
The NIV suggests that the dead were resurrected when Jesus died and then went into Jerusalem after Jesus’ resurrection. A number of theologians and Christians agree with this view.
Many others say that since Christ is the firstfruits of the dead (1 Cor. 15.22), then the resurrection did not occur until He was raised. This view takes the phrase “after Jesus’ resurrection” and then fits them with “…were raised to life and came out of the tombs.” This is possible in the Greek and is also hinted at in the KJV and the NASB. The tombs broke open at Christ’s death due to the earthquake, but the bodies were not raised till Christ was raised— which is the view I currently hold.
A special thanks to Brittany Dyer for posing some interesting questions. She’s a committed student of the Bible and an excellent example to the Tompkinsville church of Christ family.
If we are honest, some days it is easier to worship with focus and enthusiasm than others. We’re human and we struggle. With mental preparation and prayer, we can minimize the frequency of such times, but they happen to the best of us.
Have you ever thought about God getting tired of the worship brought by His people? I don’t mean worship done incorrectly and according to the will of men which violates what He commands. Apparently, He rejects such worship (Mat. 15:9). I don’t mean the idea that He gets bored and had rather skip a Sunday here and there. No such picture is ever painted of God.
But through the prophets, He repeatedly talks about being weary of the worship brought by His people.
“I have had enough…I take no pleasure in…your worthless offerings…an abomination to me…I cannot endure…They have become a burden to Me; I am weary of bearing them” (Isaiah 1:11-14).
“I hate, I reject your festivals, nor do I delight in your solemn assemblies…Take away from Me the noise of your songs; I will not even listen to the sound of your harps” (Amos 5:21,23).
“Oh that there were one among you who would shut the gates, that you might not uselessly kindle fire on my altar! I am not pleased with you,” says the Lord of hosts, “nor will I accept an offering from you” (Malachi 1:10).
Each prophet is dealing with specific circumstances prompting such a response from God, but it should cause us to take notice that just coming into the “meeting house” and going through the motions does not equal acceptable worship. Neither does simply following the New Testament pattern for the acts of worship. You will find in each of the passages above that the people were at the right place offering the right sacrifices on the right day led by the right people. The problem was either one of attitude, hypocrisy, or outright worldly living. Jeremiah documents how the people lived just like the world for the rest of the week, then filed into the temple to sing, “Redeemed, how I love to proclaim it!” (7:4-10).
Worship is a special privilege, to come into the presence of our Maker and Savior. At our best, we worship Him with sin and weakness in our lives. He knows that and the cross proves that He knows it. He is not expected sinless perfection, but He is looking for characteristics in our worship just beyond doctrinal accuracy. He wants:
Feeling (Psalm 95:6; John 4:24).
Engagement (Matthew 15:8).
Effort (Hebrews 13:15).
Gratitude (Ephesians 5:20; Colossians 3:16-17).
Thoughtfulness and Intentionality (Ephesians 5:19; Colossians 3:16).
Devotion (Acts 2:42).
Consideration of one another (Hebrews 10:24).
It is such a blessing that God communicates with us not only about the “what,” “when,” and “who” of worship, but also the “how” and “why” of it. When we are assembled for worship, He tells us what worship should look like. Between the assemblies, He tells us what a life looks like that partners with that worship.
God speaks of the various sacrifices of His children being a “fragrant aroma” to Him (Philippians 4:20; ). He likens the prayers of His faithful people to incense (Revelation 5:8; 8:1ff). Jesus assures us that true worshippers offering true worship are highly sought after by God (John 4:23). That’s the aim, isn’t it? The idea of presenting God with both a worshipper and worship which enthuses Him is the pinnacle of excitement!
Next Sunday, before we come together in worship, we can read Psalm 95, Psalm 96, Isaiah 6, or a similar chapter which reminds us of Who we get to worship. Today and every day, let us strive to build on the most recent worship we have offered by a life of faithful service and sincere devotion. That will set the table for worship God can’t wait to receive!
Having a friend that we can confide in and rely on for sound advice is invaluable, but we should be picky about who we choose as friends. Solomon says, “The righteous person is a guide to his neighbor, But the way of the wicked leads them astray.” (Proverbs 12.26 NASB).
Thus, we will begin with those negative characteristics Solomon says one should avoid when befriending people. Do not befriend:
A gossip (Proverbs 20.19).
The short-tempered (Proverbs 22.24-25).
Drunks and gluttons (Proverbs 23.20-21).
The “unsteady” (Proverbs 24.21-22). [To fully understand this, you may need to check the Hebrew. For example, in one translation, a person “given to change” may join “rebellious officials” in another. This difference is because the Hebrew “shanah” implies repetition (“to repeat, do again”). So, Solomon speaks of those not willing to grow from their mistakes or have fickle loyalties. Hence, such people are unstable in their ways.]
Liars (Proverbs 25.18).
The untrustworthy (Proverbs 25.19).
The inconsiderate (Proverbs 25.20).
The violent (Proverbs 1.10-19).
Those whom Solomon says to befriend comprise a shorter list. Befriend those:
Who display wisdom (Proverbs 13.20).
Who will point you in the right direction (Proverbs 13.14).
In addition to telling us who to befriend and who to shun, Solomon gives us wisdom about how we can be better friends with others. This wisdom begins with telling us to avoid certain disruptive practices.
Don’t repeat everything you hear (Proverbs 17.9).
Avoid senseless arguments (Proverbs 14.14).
Don’t overstay your welcome (Proverbs 25.17).
Don’t intrude on others’ arguments (Proverbs 26.17). [Solomon likens this to yanking a dog’s ears.]
Don’t call mistakes and misdeeds a failed attempt at humor (Proverbs 26.18-19). [“I was joking!”]
Don’t gossip (Proverbs 26.20). [Look up Socrates’ three filters: Is it true? Is it good? Is it useful?.]
Don’t be cranky (Proverbs 26.21).
Don’t be inconsiderate (Proverbs 27.14).
According to Solomon, then, these are the causes of discord among friends. It may be difficult to recover a friend’s trust if they have lost faith in us. Solomon warns, “An offended friend is harder to win back than a fortified city. Arguments separate friends like a gate locked with bars” (Proverbs 18.19 NLT). Solomon, though, advises those of us who have harmed our relationships. If we need to repair a friendship, we must:
Get our relationship right with God, and then others will change their perspective of us (Proverbs 16.7).
Be slow to anger (Proverbs 15.18, cf. James 1.19).
Not speculate (Proverbs 18.13).
Not quarrel (Proverbs 20.3).
Speak gently (Proverbs 15.1).
Speak less (Proverbs 10.19).
Be loving (Proverbs 10.12).
Offer honest criticism instead of flattery (Proverbs 28.23).
Yes, correctly applying God’s wisdom can ensure that we enjoy the blessings of good friends in this life. And there is a blessing in a friendship that Solomon reminds us of in Ecclesiastes 4.9-12:
“Two are better than one because they have a good return for their labor. For if either of them falls, the one will lift up his companion. But woe to the one who falls when there is not another to lift him up. Furthermore, if two lie down together they keep warm, but how can one be warm alone? And if one can overpower him who is alone, two can resist him. A cord of three strands is not quickly torn apart.” (Ecclesiastes 4.9-12 NASB1995)
I’ll be repeating the book of I John in present-day terminology. It’s not a true translation of the book, as I am not qualified to do so. It will be based on an exegetical study of the book and will lean heavily on the SBL and UBS Greek New Testaments, as well as comparisons with other translations (ESV, NASB, NIV, ERV, NLT). My goal is to reflect the text accurately, and to highlight the intent of the author using concepts and vocabulary in common use today.
This is not an “essentially literal” translation, and should be read as something of a commentary.
Love, Pt. 2
Everyone who believes that Jesus is the king who came from God should also love everyone who belongs to God. When we love God and practice what he commanded, that’s how we know we love his family, too. We prove that we love God when we do what he’s commanded, and those commands aren’t difficult to live out.
If you’re a part of God’s family, you’ve already beaten the world. Our faith is how we’ve won — if you believe that Jesus is God’s son, you’ve won in our spiritual battle against the world!
The ark of the covenant is a well-known object even among the non-religious, thanks to Hollywood. The depiction on the big screen has been exaggerated and romanticized for entertainment purposes, and that’s a shame. The ark of God is interesting enough without the unnecessary special effects. While many in the church are familiar with Uzzah’s fatal and infamous mistake (2 Samuel 6.7), there are several other accounts involving the ark that aren’t as commonly reviewed.
The Ark Is Stolen
It all began when the Philistines had taken the ark after the Israelites go into battle without consulting the Lord. These are the humbling events that showcase God’s power and holiness following the theft of the ark.
God strikes the citizens of Ashdod with tumors (1 Sam. 5.6)
God strikes the citizens of Gath with tumors (1 Sam. 5.8)
Destruction and death fall on the city of Ekron as the ark passed through (1 Sam. 5.11-12)
After the ark reaches Beth Shemesh the men of the town take a peak inside the ark and *50,070 (see explanation at end of this article) are struck dead (1 Sam. 6.19)
All of the death and disease show us the seriousness and obedience required of God’s people. It’s not just about a mysterious wooden box covered in gold— it was an object meant to train the Israelites to think properly about their Lord. Many applications can be made for us today as well.
The Hebrews writer explains that things are different now (Heb. 4.14-16). God’s response to all those who are disobedient to Him aren’t always immediately avenged but we shouldn’t assume that God feels differently— vengeance still belongs to Him (Heb. 10.30).
God also tells us that He is unchanging in His nature (Heb. 13.8).
It’s thanks to Jesus that we are able to approach God with confidence. It’s Jesus we ought to thank for the grace and forgiveness we receive because of His sacrifice (Heb. 4.16).
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Note: *50,070
“and he struck some of the men of Beth-shemesh, because they looked upon the ark of the LORD. He struck seventy men of them, and the people mourned because the LORD had struck the people with a great blow” (1 Sam. 6.19).
The ESV as well as several other translations use the number “seventy” rather than “fifty thousand and seventy.” While there are a few explanations for this, here are the abbreviated leading takes.
Some believe the scribes were unsure of the number and so copied the text with slight variation.
Similarly, some believe that “three score and ten” or “fifty thousand and seventy” was originally found in the margins of the scrolls by early scribes. Later, scribes placed the commentary into the text.
Some believe the number should be translated “seventy” because Josephus seemed to hold this view (Antiquities of the Jews, Book VI).
“…although it cannot be proven beyond all reasonable doubt that the 50,070 figure is erroneous, there is the very real possibility that either (1) the Hebrew has been misunderstood, or (2) a copyist made an error in the transmission process.”
– Eric Lyons, M. Min
“Nowhere else is a figure like 50,070 written in this fashion according to the grammar of biblical Hebrew. Normally the wording would have been either…“seventy man and fifty thousand man” or else in the descending order—which was far more usual…“fifty thousand man and seventy man” (Archer, 1982, p. 169, Apologetics Press, Art. ‘Death at Beth Shemesh).
While this may seem trivial to some and worrisome to others, one can take comfort knowing that we have everything we need for life and godliness (1 Pt. 1.3). That’s the view held by the other authors on this blog as well as each member of the Lord’s church sited/quoted here.
The Preacher Pollard Blog 