Tag: faith

Outcasts In A Field

Carl Pollard

According to Scripture, the first people to hear the good news of Jesus’ birth were shepherds who were watching their flocks in the fields near Bethlehem. You ever wonder why God told them first? 

Luke 2:10-11 says, “But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.” 

I wish we could have seen their response. 

Shepherds in first-century Middle Eastern culture had a reputation for being thieves and lowlifes. Jews considered shepherds to be ceremonially unclean. Perhaps these shepherds felt unworthy. The way they made a living was considered unclean. 

Maybe they felt inadequate? According to Jewish culture they could not testify in court. No one trusted shepherds. People would not buy property from them because it was most likely stolen. Some saw them on the same level as tax collectors and prostitutes. The religious leaders told others not to go near them. 

Most of all, these shepherds were not loved by the masses. The temple was strict on cleanliness, they could not enter. 

Culturally, no father wanted their daughter to marry a shepherd. And yet we read that God revealed the birth of His Son to THEM. 

The outcast, the unloved, the unworthy, the inadequate. Romans 3:22 says, “We are made right with God by placing our faith in Jesus Christ. And this is true for everyone who believes, no matter who we are.” 

You cannot earn God’s acceptance. But we are all sinners. If you accuse someone and say, “you have sinned against God” you will get push back from many people. They believe they are morally good and don’t appreciate being accused of sin. I watched a video of a preacher named Ray Comfort walk around in public and ask people certain questions. He would ask, “do you consider yourself a good person? Have you ever told a lie? Have you ever stolen anything? Have you ever lusted before?” If you’re reading this article ask yourself those same questions. Be honest, Have you ever told a lie? Have you ever stolen anything? You ever lusted after someone? If you tell a lie, what does that make you? A liar. If you steal something, what does that make you? A thief. If you’ve ever lusted after another, Jesus says you have committed adultery in your heart (Matt. 5:27-28). If you’ve ever hated someone that is considered the same as murder (1 John 3:15). 

So that means you are a lying, thieving, adulterous, murderous person. How does that make you feel? 

If you don’t see yourself as a sinner, you won’t see your need for a Savior. And we are made right with God, not by our own works, but by faith in Christ. That is why God told the good news to outcasts in a field and not to the royalty in the city, so that all would know that God wants you to be a part of His family regardless of who you are. 

But coming to Christ takes acknowledging the sin in your life. These shepherds were reminded daily that they were outcasts and sinners. I believe we sometimes fool ourselves into thinking we are better than them. Recognize your sin so that you’ll see the need for a Savior.

Isaiah: The Holy One Who Rules The World (XLVII)

“The Suffering Servant” (53:1-12)

Neal Pollard

Walvoord and Zuck observe, “This is perhaps the best-known section in the Book of Isaiah. Several parts of this passage are quoted in the New Testament: Isaiah 52:15 in Romans 15:21; Isaiah 53:1 in John 12:38 and Romans 10:16; Isaiah 53:4 in Matthew 8:17; Isaiah 53:7–8 in Acts 8:32–33; Isaiah 53:9 in 1 Peter 2:22; and Isaiah 53:12 in Luke 22:37” (BKC, 1106).  This chapter is the most recognizably Messianic of the entire book of Isaiah. It is the completion of the fourth Servant Poem, in which the prophet reveals three crucial facts about Him.

The suffering servant would be overlooked (1-2). Why? Given the prelude of this Servant (52:13-15), this is a surprising fact. This exalted and glorified One is described now as a tender shoot, a root out of dry ground, with no stately form or majesty, and without an attractive appearance. The message about Him and from Him is deemed unbelievable (1). He grows up among the people, who cannot but see Him only as a carpenter, Mary’s son, with younger brothers and sisters, and, thus, a cause of offense (Mark 6:3). He is “this man” (Luke 7:39). The root out of dry ground takes our minds back to Isaiah 11:1, the tender shoot of Jesse. Physically unremarkable, financially modest, and without any sort of commending pedigree, He was an average, ordinary-looking Man among men. 

The suffering servant would be oppressed (3-10a). Beyond His humble circumstances, His contemptible appearance, combined with His relentless effort to spread His unconventional message backed by undeniable miracles, led to His opponents doing all within their power to punish and silence Him. Graphically, Isaiah foretells what those among whom He dwelled dispatched of Him (or so they thought). His oppression was vicious. It led Him to experience despising, forsaking, grieving, sorrowing, and condescending (3,7). His oppression was vicarious. It led Him to experience things for us, things we deserved to experience but that He went through on our behalf (4-6,8). James Smith gives us a concise chart of this:

OUR EXPERIENCEHIS EXPERIENCE
GriefsBore
SorrowsCarried
TransgressionPierced Through
IniquitiesCrushed
PeaceChastening
HealedScourging

 Smith, James E. The Major Prophets. Joplin, MO: College Press, 1992. Print. Old Testament Survey Series, 149. 

His oppression was voluntary (7). Reading the fulfillment of this in the gospels as Jesus stands before Pilate and His many accusers, He chose not to speak to defend Himself. He knew that as a sacrificial Lamb, He had to submit to their torture and injustice. His oppression was violent, as we see from the many words associated with the death He would die (9). His oppression was victorious (9-10). It accomplished the Divine purpose, in which He played a part as God the Word. He successfully became the blood offering for our sins (10). But that last fact points us to the last major point of the chapter (10b-12). 

The suffering servant would be an overcomer (10b-12). As this was the premeditated plan of heaven, the Godhead knew that death could not keep Him down and the grave could not hold Him (1 Cor. 15:54-57). That’s why the Lord was “pleased” to allow such cruelty to occur. After being made a guilt offering for our sins, “the Lord would prolong His days” (10). Notice how the vicarious nature of the suffering Servant’s sacrifice would satisfy divine justice and solve humanity’s spiritual debt problem. 

1 Corinthians 13 (Part 2)

Gary Pollard

I Cor 13.1-3 steps on toes. A person could be truly exceptional in qualities most of us would love to have, if just barely. Without love even the most exceptional person is doomed. 

Here are some the powerhouse-qualities that mean nothing without love: 

1. The ability to speak multiple languages, with a working knowledge of the language of cosmic beings. 

This is a person intellectually talented in an extremely difficult discipline, one that requires unlimited dedication. This is someone so dedicated to transcendent words that they pursue even the language of God’s holy ones. 

This is a person who wants to know God’s word so badly that they learn Greek, Hebrew, and Aramaic to get an unadulterated look at the scriptures. They may even feel an obligation to spread this knowledge to others, so they learn multiple modern languages to accomplish this. 

If not done because of selfless love, if they don’t care for their enemies, and if they don’t feed and clothe the poor, they’ve wasted their time. 

2. The ability to masterfully teach, understand the times, and give accurate social predictions, all with a genius-level IQ. 

This is a handy person to have around! They can give targeted lessons based on where their culture is and where it’s likely to go. They have an excellent grasp of first principles, and they can give just the right message at just the right time. 

This person might trust in God so completely that they place their lives wholly in his hands. They trust him to take care of them. They trust him to remove all obstacles in their path. 

But they don’t like people — ουθεν ειμι. They are nobody, they are meaningless. Their faith is pointless, their intellectual powers are useless. 

3. The portfolio and conscience compelling them to liquidate all of their assets and distribute them to anyone who needs anything. This is coupled with a martyr’s spirit, so after draining their earthly goods they willingly die gruesome, painful, slow deaths for God’s sake. 

But they don’t like people — so they threw it all away and gained absolutely nothing in return. Still doomed. 

This is difficult! We want to be like this, and we want to emulate these qualities so badly. They’re good qualities, and we can’t be good Christians without them. 

But if love isn’t what drives us to do all of those things, we might as well put our time and energy into something else. Love isn’t necessarily an emotion — we don’t always feel warm and fuzzies about other people. Love is a decision to do good things for all people, to forgive automatically, to put other peoples’ needs and feelings above our own, and to view all people (including our enemies) as being more important than self. The two most important commands are about love: for God and for other people. Without those two supporting everything we do, nothing we do matters. We’ll not get it right all the time. It’s a process that we’ll probably spend the rest of our lives trying to master! God expects us to aim at growth, and his grace takes care of the gaps. 

If God allows, we’ll start looking at the behavioral symptoms of a loving spirit starting next week. 

I was very happy to learn about some of your children. I am happy that they are following the way of truth, just as the Father commanded us. And now, dear lady, I tell you: We should all love each other. This is not a new command. It is the same command we had from the beginning (II Jn 4-5). 

Isaiah: The Holy One Who Rules The World (XLVII)

“Our God Reigns” (52:1-15)

Neal Pollard

Chapter 52 is a dramatic call for the southern kingdom (and Jerusalem specifically) to awaken themselves at the deliverance and assurance of a God who is on their side. As we see this brief chapter, which leads in the better known 53rd chapter, there are a few significant details which build hope. Why? Because it centers around the God we serve.

God, The King, Values Us (1-5). Protectively, God calls to His people to be clothed in strength and beauty (1). It is a call to arise from captivity, having been bound by Egypt and Assyria (4). God arises like an advocate, pleading the case of His people (5). He does so from the standpoint of the personal cost He feels and the blasphemy it brings on His name (5). He does not want to see His people enslaved or humbled another moment.

God, The King, Redeems Us (6-10). This section is by far the most familiar to not only Bible readers, but those who recognize its words in a song we sing in worship. Especially note verse seven: “How lovely on the mountains Are the feet of him who brings good news, Who announces peace And brings good news of happiness, Who announces salvation, And says to Zion, ‘Your God reigns!’” God anticipates the day when His people would know His name and recognize His voice (6). That would be possible through the heralding of His messengers (7-8). The result would be celebration–shouts of joy (8-9), comfort (9), redemption (9), and salvation (10). But, by God’s might (10), it would be a salvation accessible to all nations (cf. Mat. 28:19; Acts 1:8). 

God, The King, Challenges Us (11-12). The call is for separation and purification. As they left captivity, they were not to take its spiritual influence with them. Despite the terror they faced going into bondage, they would come out with peace and security. God not only calls for righteousness, He pledges His help as they pursue it. 

God, The King, Visits Us (13-15). These verses actually seem to begin the fourth and final “Servant Song” that continues through the next chapter. Each song begins, “Behold, my Servant” or a similar phrase (42:1; 49:1; 50:4). While chapter 53 will focus on His suffering, the Messiah is introduced with His being “high and lifted up and greatly exalted” (13). Philippians 2:9-11 says that glory would follow suffering. Here, we are reminded of how glorious this one who came to be the Servant is. These verses are a prelude to the awful picture of suffering that follows, especially verses 14-15. Notice that this Servant will astonish many with what He suffers, just as the Jewish nation suffered in the captivity. He would be marred and disfigured beyond human likeness (14). Oh, how the gospels will portray that on the day of His crucifixion. This servant will also atone for many by His sacrifice, implying His blood by the mention of “sprinkling” (15). This servant will disclose the truth of His identity to those in high places (15). Paul quotes Isaiah 52:15 and applies it to Jesus, when he reveals in Romans 15:21 that he shared Jesus in places where he had not been. This verse is cited as biblical defense for such. The Jews rejected or minimized Old Testament passages that portrayed the Servant as sufferer rather than sovereign. But, the message of Scripture is that we must Christ, all of Him, as the one exalted but first executed, as the one triumphant but only after He was threatened, tortured, and terminated. 

Isaiah: The Holy One Who Rules The World (XLVI)

The Servant’s Words To The Weary Exiles (51:1-23)

Neal Pollard

James Smith observes, “Four exhortations to Zion follow the third Servant poem (which he identifies as 50:10-51:8, NP). Each is accompanied by promises designed to lift the spirits of God’s people during the period of their captivity” (OT Survey, 145). The first exhortation, to trust God in adversity, is found in the last several verses of chapter ten, followed by three in this chapter. First, remember their heritage (1-3). Second, listen to divine instruction (4-6). Third, take courage in God’s deliverance (7-8). This is followed by an extended call to God to “awake” and to Jerusalem to “rouse” (9-23). Verses 9-16 have been called a “wake up prayer to God,” while verses 17-23 have been called a “wake up prayer to a drunken woman” (Zion)(Smith, 147). It appears to me that there are three categories of individuals that are the subject of this “Servant song,” looking at past, present, and future. All the way through this section, the central focus is on one individual–The Servant–who is the coming Christ. 

Isaiah 51 speaks of the expectation of the righteous (1-8).  One is struck with the calls for the upright to act: “listen” (1,7), “look” (1,2), “pay attention” (4), “give ear” (4), “lift up” (6), “fear not” (7), and “be not dismayed” (7). These are calls of encouragement from the Lord. Blessed assurance fills the content of this paragraph. They could remember Abraham and Sarah, who were unlikely candidates for beginning an entire nation (2). They could remember Eden and appreciate what God was capable of, even as they found themselves in waste places, wildernesses, and deserts (3). The reason for their optimism was the character of God, from His law (4) to His deliverance and salvation (5-6,8). It was but for them to be faithful and fearless (7). 

Isaiah 51 speaks of the endurance of the Lord (9-16). Isaiah builds upon the righteous character of the Lord in assuring the godly and obedient. This prayer begins with the nation pleading with God to awake, but He declares that He is not only awake but also at work. He is the God of comfort (12), creation (13), capability (14-15), covenant (15,16), and covering (16). He declares who and what He is–“I am” (12,15) and what He has done– “I have” (16, cf. 22). To a people afraid of their enemies and lacking confidence in their deliverance, God reminds them of His limitless ability which aids them and destroys their enemies. 

Isaiah 51 speaks of the enfeeblement of the wicked (17-23). The tables are turned, and now God is calling for the spiritually drunk to wake up and sober up. They called on God to wake up, and He proves to them He is never asleep on the job. Instead, they are reeling from drinking the cup of God’s anger due to their rebellion (17). Sin has left the nation weak, aimless, unguided, inconsolable, helpless, and the object of God’s wrath and rejection (18-20). Yet, even in this condition, they are offered hope from God. He offers to take the chalice of reeling and divine anger from their hands and put it in the hands of their tormentors (21-23). Grace even in judgment! Hope even in the wake of their sin!

In the past, the people had seen God deliver them from Egypt (Rahab, 9; see 30:7). In the future, the people would see God deliver them from the Chaldeans (23; see 49:26). In the present, the people should look to the God they had ignored and forsaken, repenting and once again finding their strength and salvation in Him alone. What a timeless message! 

God’s Toolbox And Ours

Jonathan Garrett

1 Corinthians 12:4-7 says, “Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord; and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who empowers them all in everyone. To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good.”

How many tools do you use during the day? I own several toolboxes and each one of them contain different tools for different jobs. Sometimes we limit our understanding of tools as those we would find in a toolbox. God’s toolbox (church) contains far more tools than what can be contained in a single toolbox.


When you say tools, most people think hammer, screwdriver, and tape measure. What about the tools in the kitchen? The whisk, measuring cup, and mixing bowl. Or the tools on your desk, pen, paper, and a stapler.


God has many different tools in His toolbox. Each one is special and has a special purpose. You wouldn’t use a whisk to hammer a nail, but in the kitchen the whisk can be very useful. Most of us expect to find a hammer, screwdriver, or wrenches in a toolbox. We do the same thing when it comes to God’s toolbox,
we expect him to use the elders, deacons, preachers, or the Sunday school teachers.


God wants to use each and everyone of us. God created us unique and different. He wants us to use our gifts for him.


Think about the tools you use each day and how they could be used by God in your hands. For example, a hammer could be used as part of a missionary trip to help build or rebuild housing for those in need. A pen could be used to write an uplifting note to someone who needs encouragement.

Now think about other tools, gifts, or abilities God has given you that can be used for His glory. Maybe it’s the ability to lead singing, teach a class, or maybe it’s the ability to help someone in need.


Now hold your Bible in your hands. This is the most powerful tool that God has given us, and we need to make sure it’s in our toolbox for everyday life. The passage in 1 Corinthians 12 talks about different gifts, different services, and different activities.
Someone may have the same gift like teaching, but one may be better suited for teaching in a closed one on one setting, where the other may be better at teaching a class room of people, others may be more suited to teach by writing articles or doing on-line Bible lessons.

God has created us uniquely with our own personalities, experiences, knowledge, and abilities. He has also placed us in unique situations where we have our own area of influence. We each know and can reach people for God, that others may not know or who can’t relate to.


Each one of us matters in God’s church.

Isaiah: The Holy One Who Rules The World (XLV)

The Lord God Helps “The Servant” (50:1-11)

Neal Pollard

The first three verses of this chapter seem to better belong with chapter 49, making this an unfortunate chapter break. Isaiah 49:14 says, “But Zion said, ‘The Lord has forsaken me, and the Lord has forgotten me.'” So, these three verses is His response. There is a set of questions about God’s relationship to Israel followed by a set of questions about Israel’s relationship to God (1-2). His answer to the first set of questions is that their suffering was the result of their unfaithfulness, not His (1). His answer to the second set of questions is that He was able to save them, but they had refused to turn to Him for such (2). His power is limitless and rejecting that power is ludicrous! 

From Isaiah 50:4-11, we hear the voice of The Servant again. In contrast to the faithlessness of the people, The Servant is faithful to the mind and mission of the Lord. He puts His trust in Him in at least three ways.

He credits the Lord God for His gifts (4-5). These center around His tongue (4) and His ears (5). With His words, He would sustain and encourage. With His ears, He would listen and follow the Lord God’s instructions. With open ears, He obediently followed and persevered (5). 

He credits the Lord God for His mission (6). Here, we have the first of many allusions to the suffering servant. This persecuted Servant would be struck, violated, spat upon, and humiliated. One cannot read these words without thinking about what happened to Jesus on the day He was crucified. 

He credits the Lord God for His help (7-9). Twice, He says, “The Lord God helps Me” (7,9). In the light of this assistance, He is confident (7), determined (7-8), convicted (9), and optimistic (9). 

This chapter ends with The Servant calling on men to join Him in trusting the Lord God. They should fear Him, obey Him, trust Him, and rely on Him (10). Walking by the light of their own fire would simply lead to torment (11). It is foolish to reject the Lord God who showed His loving care to His Servant, who wishes to aid all who follow Him. 

14 Tips For Voting

Neal Pollard
  • Exercise your right and privilege as a citizen of this nation to cast your vote. But, if you are convicted such is morally wrong, you would sin to violate your conscience (Rom. 14:23).
  • Pray (for wisdom, for peace, for God’s will, for the future of your family, for our leaders)(1 Tim. 2:1-2).
  • Study the many issues and thoughtfully examine each candidate’s position, making a choice that honors God more than it honors background, family, tradition, or friendships (Mat. 6:33; 10:37).
  • Remember that your decision is private and does not have to be shared with anyone else; if asked, you can always change the subject or respectfully decline to answer.
  • Take comfort in the truth that God is in control and elections do not thwart or overtake His will, but they are the result of His sovereign will (Rom. 13:1ff; Dan. 2:21; 4:17,25).
  • Do not make politics more important than relationships in the church, discerning that the diversity of the spiritual family includes new and weak Christians who might stumble as you assert your rights (Rom. 14:19; 1 Cor. 8:13; 9:19-22).
  • Make sure any public and/or social media comments on politics (including memes, sharing posts and articles, etc.) pass the salt and light tests (Mat. 5:13-16) and the truth in love test (Eph. 4:15; being both truthful and loving).
  • Place your devotion and allegiance to Christ above your politics, being more passionate to proclaim Him than your candidate of choice (Mat. 6:33).
  • Never forget that, as Christians, our citizenship is in heaven (Phil. 3:20); we are citizens of heaven trying to make our way through earth rather than citizens of earth trying to make our way to heaven (2 Pet. 2:11).
  • Take all campaign promises with a grain of salt, realizing candidates may say just about anything to get elected (carefully study their positions over time to get a better idea of where they stand).
  • If you experience anger (associated with politics) before, during, or after this election, do not sin in that anger (Eph. 4:26).
  • Watch your tongue (keyboard)(Jas. 3:2-12).
  • Exercise righteous judgment when seeking to insert political statements and sentiments into the public worship of our God.
  • Never let politics (whether we perceive winds as fair or foul) eclipse your view of your true identity, mission, or destiny (1 Pet. 2:9; Mat. 28:18-20; Col. 3:1-4). Elections always have consequences, but so do our actions (Gal. 6:7-8).

Isaiah: Trusting The Holy One Who Rules The World (XLIII)

Listen To Me (48:1-22)!

Neal Pollard

James Smith neatly summarizes the last 27 chapters of Isaiah as an introduction of two servants of God. He writes, “One was obedient, the other disobedient. The first was an individual; the second represented the entire nation” (OT Survey Series, 128). Starting at the end of chapter 44 through the end of this chapter, Isaiah predicts the coming of Cyrus the Great well before even his birth. But Cyrus is not the point; He’s an illustration of the point. The point is about the rock solid nature of God’s Word! Twice, He calls to Israel and says, “Hear me!” (1,12). He declares and proclaims (3). He prefaces His revelation by stating, “Thus says the Lord…” (17). He admonishes them to pay attention to His commandments (18). He punctuates statements with “says the Lord” (17,22). All of this is a summons to listen to Him!

Notice God’s case for the people to hear His word.

He accurately foretells the future (3-5). From long ago, He declared things before they happened. Knowing how hardhearted the people were, He did this as a loving act to soften those hearts. Their idols could not do this (5)!

He foretells new things that had not been before (6-8). Here is proof of His unique nature. They could not compare what He prophecies with anything like it in their past. They could not have imagined it and they had no experience with it, proving God’s superlative ways. 

He acts in the defense and protection of His own character (9-11). All that He did and the things He chose not to do which demonstrated His mercy was a show of love, but even more than that it was in harmony with His perfect character. Three times, He says, “For my sake.” For His praise and glory, He did these marvelous things. 

He backs up His word with His unmatched power (12-16). He is first in time (12), best by means of creation (13), superior by reason of sustaining (13), unparalleled because of His love (14), and all of it proves what He can make and do like no one else can! 

His words have unmatched value (17-22). Notice. His words teach one to profit (17). His words lead to well-being and righteousness (18). His words leads men to pave a better road for their children (19). His word gives redemption (20). His word leads to providence and blessings (20-21).

God is about to talk to His people about the prospect of their restoration (ch. 49-55). But first, they needed to prepare their hearts and change their lives. Truly, “When people fall away from God, he will challenge them in various ways. In this case God calls for his people to listen to him, to hear him out, and respond accordingly. If they would just take into consideration who God is (the Creator, Lord of history, Redeemer, Holy One, Teacher, and Leader), then God would be able to pour out his blessing on his people” (G. Smith, NAC, 333). 

Bread And Circuses

Neal Pollard

An early second-century Latin satirist named Juvenal is credited with giving the world the phrase, “bread and circuses.” In context, he wrote, “They shed their sense of responsibility long ago, when they lost their votes, and the bribes; the mob that used to grant power, high office, the legions, everything, curtails its desires, and reveals its anxiety for two things only, bread and circuses (Book 2, lines 10.56-89). The predominant idea in this now-famous line is that the populace lost its interest in political freedom and civic responsibility, being numbed and lured most by physical satisfaction and entertainment. In modern times, the phrase has been used to speak of food and entertainment being used by the government to keep people happy and submissive.

What makes this such an effective strategy? Perhaps it is a human tendency to favor pleasure over hard work and laziness over critical thinking, among other things. A love of ease and the illusion of peace can cause a person to surrender things of far greater value to keep them. Those things might be absolute truth, God-given moral values, personal sacrifice, care of and connection to community, charity, and similar building blocks of society. When we reduce our existence to placating our baser desires, we let go of what is much more valuable and this is to our ultimate harm. 

No doubt we see this increasingly in our national political environment, but can we succumb to the mindset of yearning for “bread and circuses” in the religious realm? Apparently so. Paul warned about “difficult times” when men would be “lovers of self, lovers of money…and lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God” (2 Tim. 3:1,2,4). In such times, they would “not endure sound doctrine, but wanting to have their ears tickled, they will accumulate for themselves teachers in accordance to their own desires, and will turn away their ears from the truth and will turn aside to myths” (2 Tim. 4:3-4). It seems easier to follow the flesh than to live by faith, but it is spiritually fatal. It is described as going from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived (2 Tim. 3:13). In the first letter to Timothy, Paul wrote, “But she who gives herself to wanton pleasure is dead even while she lives” (1 Tim. 5:6).

This isn’t to suggest that being a foodie or that watching TV shows and movies is sinful. That misses the greater point of Scripture. It is possible to let life become more about gratifying our bodies and putting our greater focus on the things of this world, and that is sinful. Paul tells us how to put all of that in its proper place, urging, “Whether, then, you eat or drink or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God” (1 Cor. 10:31). “Bread and circuses” can be legitimate ways to build connections with people whose never-dying souls will live somewhere, but they can never become an end in themselves. We were created for infinitely more! 

Fellowship And Golf

Dale Wiley

For the past 3 or 4 years Harold Nicks, Jim Fuqua, Bob Raby & I have been playing golf most every week. During that time, there’s been no bad language, no nasty jokes and a minimal amount of gossiping. Occasionally, as my golfing partners advance in age, some health issues arise. Shoulder pain, knees going out or a pulled hammie. Then they have to go on the injured reserve list. No problem because we go straight to the bench and in comes Elder Jim Humphries to take his place. Still, there’s no bad language, no dirty jokes and a minimal amount of cheating. 

Last Friday Jim and I were playing at Paul Walker and around the 6th hole noticed a couple of older men behind us and asked if they cared to join us. They agreed and one of them hit his ball in the woods and then into the creek.  A few choice words followed. Then on the next hole he hit a window in a house and then more words followed, some of which Elder Jim had not heard since his Army days back in the ’60’s. 

Jim and I were talking later how nice it was to be able to play weekly with a group of brothers that chose not to behave that way, even when the ball doesn’t always go where we want it to go and that we appreciate the fellowship of our brothers in Christ.

Fellowship with our Brothers and Sisters in Christ encourages and uplifts one another to be more Christ like and has a great influence on those around us, whether it be the Crew on Grub Night, the Young at Heart Ladies, or Tuesday’s Ladies Bible Class at Kathy’s, to maintain our spiritual growth. 

Remember these words:

1 Corinthians 1:9: You were called into the fellowship of His Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.

1 John 1:3: That which we have seen and heard we proclaim also to you, so that you too may have fellowship with us. 

Personal Responsibility Meets Divine Grace:

A Deep Dive into the Parables of the Talents and the Hired Laborers

Brent Pollard

The Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25.14-30) and the Parable of the Hired Laborers (Matthew 20.1-16) delve into profound themes of stewardship and reward, each shedding a unique light on these concepts.

The Parable of the Talents reminds us of our duty to employ the gifts and resources entrusted to our care. It teaches that those who cultivate their talents can expect more significant rewards, revealing a structure where the fruits of one’s labor align with diligent stewardship.

In contrast, the Parable of the Hired Laborers reveals a profound truth about divine grace. It shows that laborers receive equal rewards regardless of when they begin their work. This parable demonstrates that God’s kingdom operates through grace rather than human metrics of effort or worthiness. The equal compensation given to all workers testifies to the Creator’s boundless generosity rather than merely accounting for their toil.

These parables weave together a profound narrative illustrating the delicate balance between human accountability and divine grace. Each carries a distinct truth that neither diminishes our responsibilities nor the grace bestowed upon us. One emphasizes our sacred duty to steward our blessings, while the other reveals God’s boundless generosity, which transcends our human understanding of merit.

Scholars and theologians have grappled with these parables’ apparent contradictions throughout Christian history. Augustine emphasized the call to earnest service in the Parable of the Talents, while Martin Luther highlighted the concept of grace alone, as illustrated in the Parable of the Hired Laborers. Today, these timeless stories continue to shape our understanding of merit, justice, and the nature of grace.

In our contemporary world, where productivity and performance often dominate the discourse, the Parable of the Talents highlights the importance of faithful effort and wise stewardship of our gifts. Meanwhile, the Parable of the Hired Laborers reminds us that human measures of worth pale compared to divine grace. In modern congregations, these teachings offer wisdom for stewarding our communities and nurturing relationships.

They guide us in developing our talents while grounding our communities in the grace that sustains us all. These parables encourage a delicate balance: striving for excellence in service while embracing the inclusive nature of God’s kingdom, which welcomes all regardless of when they join the work. This inclusiveness offers comfort and reassurance, affirming that God values all.

Rather than conflicting, these parables present a harmonious view of the Christian journey. They reveal a sacred balance where personal responsibility and unmerited grace work as partners in spiritual growth. The Parable of the Talents affirms that our efforts and choices matter—that careful stewardship of our gifts has genuine significance in God’s kingdom. The Parable of the Hired Laborers reminds us that grace forms the foundation of our relationship with God, surpassing human attempts to measure worth.

Together, they paint a vivid picture of discipleship, calling us to excellence while grounding us in humility. They encourage us to invest ourselves entirely in kingdom work while remembering that our worth stems not from our achievements but from God’s boundless love. This perspective offers enduring wisdom for navigating the interplay between human effort and divine grace, speaking as powerfully to modern truth-seekers as it did to its original audience.

Isaiah: The Holy One Who Rules The World (XXXIX)

“Fear Not” (43:1-28)

Neal Pollard

The content of this chapter is connected with exhortation, “fear not,” seen in 41:10,13, and 14. God has just delivered sobering news at the end of the previous chapter, so through the prophet He encourages them regarding their future. The trouble was a consequence of their own unfaithfulness, but God shows them what He wants to do for them as they return to Him.  He makes several promises, all fortified by His proven integrity in the past–He created, formed, and redeemed them (1). They can trust that His promises would encourage and embolden them. 

There will be redemption (1-4). What motivated God was the Fatherly love. He says, “I have called you by name, you are mine” (1). Whatever adversity confronted them, God would be with them (2). He is Savior (3). In affectionate terms, God tells His people they are precious in His eyes, honored, loved, and valued (4). 

There will be return (5-7). God speaks of His people coming from every direction–note the east, west, north, and south of verses 5-6. Summarized, He speaks of their returning “from the ends of the earth” (6). In this promise, there is a reminder of divine ownership. He called, created, formed, and made them for Himself and His glory (7). That they would ever have a lowered sense of their identity and purpose is mind-boggling! Is it any less for God’s people today?

There will be rescue (8-28). In this lengthiest section of the chapter, God repeatedly reminds them of His unmatched power. Twice, He reminds, “I am the Lord” (11,15). He points out that He is Redeemer (14), the Holy One (14), the Creator of Israel (15), King (15), and, most frequently, “the Lord” (10-12, 14-16). As He will contrast Himself with the gods of the nations throughout this section of Isaiah (see verse 10), He is distinguished from all rivals as an animate, omnipotent One who has the power to do what He wills. There is the rescue He effected in the past (16-18). Now, He says, “I am doing a new thing” (19). It would cause the creation to praise Him (20), and He wanted it to make His people praise Him (21).  Incredibly, they had rejected and neglected Him (22-24) and burdened, wearied, and hurt Him with their sins (23,26-28). But how did He respond in the midst of such moral failure? “I, I am he who blots out your transgressions for my own sake, and I will not remember your sins” (25). However, the rescue is conditional. If they persist in transgressions and iniquities, God would allow them to suffer destruction and reviling (28).

Despite their persistent unfaithfulness, God’s perseverance and patience held out the hope of redemption, return, and rescue. He longs for man’s salvation, proven most fully at the cross. He wants a relationship with us, even if we so easily allow the world to blind us. He will not unconditionally save us, but there is nothing He wants more. In a scary world, that should lead us to “fear not.”

Be Grateful 

Carl Pollard

If you lack gratitude, you will never be satisfied, and you will always blame others for your misfortune. You’ll end up only seeing the negative in everything. A pessimist can hardly wait for the future so he can look back with regret. Did you know that cats can’t taste the flavor of sweetness? It’s like their tongues are color blind to sugar. No wonder cats are so grumpy all the time! They can taste sour, bitter, and saltiness, but not sweetness.

Truth is, we are a lot like cats in our own lives. Blessings come but we don’t see the sweet; all we can taste is the bitter salty things that happen to us. We need to open our eyes to the truth that gratitude isn’t merely a polite response to God’s blessings; it’s a catalyst that transforms our very existence. In a world often filled with grumbling and dissatisfaction, we are called to embrace gratitude as a way to point people to Christ.

Here three important reasons to show gratitude in all things. 

Gratitude Replaces Grumbling

In Philippians 2:14-15, we are reminded, “Do everything without grumbling or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault.” Grumbling is a thief that robs us of joy and peace, turning our hearts bitter. But gratitude, is the antidote. When we consciously choose to focus on our blessings, we begin to see God’s hand at work in our lives. Think about the Israelites in the wilderness. Despite the miracles they witnessed, they often grumbled against God. Yet, when they showed gratitude, they remembered His faithfulness, and it changed their perspective. As children of God, we need to make gratitude a part of who we are. At our very core we are saved by the blood of Christ, given access to grace and peace, and have an eternity in our future. What’s not to be grateful for? The more you show gratitude, the less bitter you will be. 

Gratitude Restores Gladness 

Psalm 100:4 tells us to “Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name.” 

There is a divine connection between gratitude and gladness. When we express our thankfulness, we open the door to joy. 

Gratitude shifts our focus from our problems to the blessings surrounding us, renewing our strength. When we cultivate a heart of gratitude, we invite joy into our lives, transforming our burdens into blessings.

Turning our trials into wisdom. Our sorrow to gladness. With the story of the ten lepers, Luke emphasizes the rarity of a thankful spirit. Notice Jesus’ final words In Luke 17:15: “One of them, when he saw that he was healed, came back, praising God in a loud voice. And Jesus asked, ‘Were not all ten cleansed? Where are the other nine? Was no one found to return and give God praise?'” Only one had taken the time to thank the person who had made his recovery possible. Don’t be stingy in your gratitude. Not only does God expect it from the ones He has saved, it’s good for us mentally and physically. 

Gratitude Renews Growth

A ship was wrecked, and the only survivor washed up on a small, uninhabited island. 

He was exhausted. He cried out to God to save him. Every day he scanned the horizon, searching for help. Finally, he managed to build a rough hut and put his few possessions in that hut. One day, coming home from hunting for food, he was stung with grief to see his little hut in flames and a cloud of smoke. The worst had happened. But early the next day, a ship drew in and rescued him. He asked the crew, “How did you know I was here?” They replied, “We saw your smoke signal.” Be grateful because maybe the difficulty you are experiencing now is a smoke signal that will lead to a greater blessing. James tells us to count it all joy when we encounter trials. 

Gratitude renews growth. We become stagnate and discouraged never grateful for the blessings we already have. Colossians 3:15 encourages us to “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.” Gratitude isn’t just a feeling; it is an action that propels us forward in our spiritual lives. When we acknowledge and thank God for His provisions, we position ourselves for growth. Gratitude opens our eyes to new opportunities, strengthens our faith, and deepens our relationship with our Creator. 

Just as the seeds in a garden grow when nourished, our spiritual health grows in an atmosphere of thankfulness. Be diligent in gratitude so that your faith can grow. 

Isaiah: The Holy One Who Rules The World (XXXVII)

Promise And Peril (42:1-25)

Neal Pollard

Dr. Ralph Wilson has noted “that Isaiah is quoted (or alluded to) in the Gospels approximately 21 times, 25 times in Paul’s letters, 6 times in 1 Peter, 5 times in Acts, 4 times in Revelation, and once in Hebrews” (jesuswalk.com). A great many of these are Messianic prophesies, including two in Isaiah 42. Isaiah focuses on a picture of the Messiah which he most fully presents of all the Old Testament writers, and that is the picture of “servant.” This chapter looks ahead to what God will accomplish through this servant for the good of His people.

THE SERVANT OF GOD (1-4). Isaiah writes of His choosing (1-2) and His character (2-4). God speaks possessively, “my servant…my chosen…in whom my soul delights…my Spirit” (1). Concerning His coming work and walk, the prophet speaks of His balance of humility and strength, a gentle judge! Matthew takes these verses and applies them to Jesus in Matthew 12:18-21, as proof of His identity as the miraculous healer who confirms His message and confounds His opponents in the region of Galilee. 

THE WORK OF GOD (5-12). Who would bring forth this Servant? Isaiah describes God, the Lord, through His voice in this paragraph. He is the One who stretched out the heavens and spread out the earth (5). He is Creator. He is the One who set man’s spirit in him (5). He is the Animator. He is the One who sustains man (6-7, 13). He is the Sustainer. He is the One who speaks with splendor (8-9). He is the Revealer. He is the subject of song (10-12). He is the Worshipped. In the midst of this depiction of God’s works, we have another fulfilled prophecy. Paul quotes verse six to justify his taking the gospel to the Gentiles (Acts 13:47), the apostle explaining to the Jews, “It was necessary that the word of God be spoken to you first; since you repudiate it and judge yourselves unworthy of eternal life, behold, we are turning to the Gentiles. For so the Lord has commanded us…” (Acts 13:46-47a).

THE HEARTBREAK OF GOD (14-25). If Isaiah’s audience mistook the gracious patience of the Lord for weakness or indulgence, the prophet corrects such thinking. God’s response to His people’s repeated rejection was perfect displeasure. His broken heart is revealed by His wrath (14-17), His words (18-20), and His wonders (21-25). His wrath was displayed to His unfaithful people who trusted in idols; He would allow them to wallow in self-destruction. He speaks to the spiritually deaf and blind, knowing they will persist in their ignorance. He magnified His glorious law and ignited His fires of judgment, but the people refused to turn to Him.

Isn’t this the all-too-frequent picture of man’s hardhearted refusal to accept the gracious guidance of God? As Isaiah foresees the coming of the Messiah, God in the flesh, mankind had the opportunity to receive their King. Instead, they rejected Him and put Him on a cross. Through His apostles and prophets, He gave us His written will. Yet, the majority refuse to believe and/or follow it. Tragic as it is, God foresees it even here in Isaiah 42. The thoughtful and righteous “Sing to the Lord a new song, Sing His praise from the end of the earth!” (10).

Our Struggle With Self

Neal Pollard

The word was used of politicians and prostitutes, and neither in flattering ways. It referred to “those who, demeaning themselves and their cause, are busy and active in their own interests, seeking their own gain or advantage” ( Büchsel, TDNT, 660). The Greek word, eritheia, translated either as “selfish ambition” (Rom. 2:8; Phil. 1:17; 2:3; Js. 3:14,16), “disputes” (2 Cor. 12:20; Gal. 5:20), or “selfishness” (Phil. 2:3), “may be rendered as ‘what they do is just to make themselves look bigger’ or ‘what they do is just for themselves’” (Louw-Nida, 760). Is there anyone exempt from the temptation to want to be better than others or make people think we’re better than others (ibid.)?

There are other principles warning and exhorting an unselfish mindset.

  • “Let no one seek his own good, but that of his neighbor” (1 Cor. 10:24).
  • “Each of us is to please his neighbor for his good, to his edification” (Rom. 15:2).
  • “Love…does not seek its own” (1 Cor. 13:5).
  • “For they all seek their own interests, not those of Jesus Christ” (Phil. 2:21).

God wants us to trust Him to be involved in our lives and bless us with what we need. This applies not only to material things (Mat. 6:19-34), but also any area of perceived needs in our lives. Especially must we leave it in His hands when we wrestle with the fleshly desire for others to praise, admire, or envy us. Or with the fleshly desire for others to meet our needs, fit our schedule, submit to our will and wishes, and the like rather than our being oriented toward meeting theirs and accommodating them. We may find ourselves angry if our schedule or plans are interrupted or hurt if our good deed goes un-praised or seemingly unnoticed. We may resort to selfish, even sinful tactics to make sure we gain the upper hand in a situation.

So, Scripture directs us to dig down to the heart level in our lives. Weed out self interests and selfish ambitions. Separate yourself from the perceived need to be right. Really, examine every corner of your heart to clean out selfish ambition and selfishness. Jesus emphasized service (John 13:12-17). Scripture touts Christ as the master example of this, saying, “Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves; do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others” (Phil. 2:3-4). He will help us accomplish the rooting out of self-focus so we can better see Him and His will for our lives!

Isaiah: Trusting The Holy One Who Rules The World (XXXV)

Three Blessings God Supplies (40:1-31)

Neal Pollard

As Isaiah resumes his prophetic writing and, especially in this portion of the book looks ahead to the coming Messiah, He does so highlighting the greatness of God. The first eleven verses highlight the greatness of His Word, while the rest of the chapter focuses on the greatness of His character. Isaiah focuses on three of the blessings His people enjoy because of the truth of His word and the perfection of His character. 

COMFORT (1-11). This blessing emerges at a time after the people have been embattled and punished (2). The comfort comes from a harbinger, who for them is a voice crying in the wilderness but the ultimate fulfillment of which would be seen in John the immerser’s work of clearing the way for the Messiah (3; Luke 2:3-6). Yet, the primary source of the comfort mentioned in this section is God’s Word–“the mouth of the Lord” (5), “the word of our God” (8), and the proclamation of His good news (9-11). Associated with the forerunner’s work would be the heralding of the message. While this would have an impact on God’s people after captivity and punishment, the ultimate fulfillment would come through Christ.  

POWER (12-27). This blessing focuses on the omnipresence of God (12), omniscience of God (13-14,27), and especially the omnipotence of God (15-26). God is shown to be greater than creation (12-14), the nations (15-17), other gods (18-20), rival rulers (21-24), and the heavens (25). The imagery is powerful and varied, yet all leading to a single conclusion. Perhaps it is summarized best in verse 18: “To whom then will you liken God, or what likeness compare with him?” 

RENEWAL (28-31). This blessing results from His inability to be weary, be stumped, or be short of ability (28). He gives renewal and strength to everyone, young or old. He empowers and rewards those who wait on Him.

This is a preamble for much of what is to follow in the remainder of this book. Yet, each blessing pinpointed here has application for the Christian today, intent of following the one promised in this chapter. What a great God we serve, interested in blessing us in every good way (Eph. 1:3). 

Isaiah: Trusting The Holy One Who Rules The World (XXXIV)

“What Have They Seen In Your House?” (39:1-8)

Neal Pollard

Isaiah appends an event to the end of his historical interlude which also appears almost verbatim in 2 Kings 20:12-19 and is referenced in 2 Chronicles 32:31. The latter historical book says, ” Even in the matter of the envoys of the rulers of Babylon, who sent to him to inquire of the wonder that had happened in the land, God left him alone only to test him, that He might know all that was in his heart.” The event involves the emerging empire of Babylon, whom their king, Merodach-baladan, sends envoys to visit Hezekiah.

The reception (1-2).  Scripture says the envoys came on a good will mission and Hezekiah received them gladly. Hezekiah showed them everything, his treasure house, all that was in his store houses, and, in fact, “There was nothing in his house or in all his realm that Hezekiah did not show them” (2b). It is hard to interpret Hezekiah’s action as anything other than pride, a display of all that his nation possessed under his reign. Isaiah is going to show Hezekiah the futility of such self-reliant trust.

The rebuke (3-7). Isaiah begins by questioning Hezekiah about what happened. The king reports to the prophet, then Isaiah asks his quotable question, “What have they seen in your house?” (4). Hezekiah says these envoys had seen everything. This prompts the prophetic warning that some day this nation, Babylon, would carry all that is in his house back to their country along with his descendants. They would even be made eunuchs there (6-7). Nothing would be left! Hezekiah’s prideful heart contributed to the future consequences that would be visited on his people. 

The response (8). Hezekiah’s reaction is really baffling. Was he being smug, was he giving God glory, or was he expressing thanksgiving at God’s goodness? Perhaps he is humbled by Isaiah’s message from God that these men he gladly welcomed and showed off for would some day be the means whereby his people would be taken into captivity. 

It is a pretty compelling application to ask ourselves the question that Isaiah asked Hezekiah. What do others see in our house? Do they see parents who look to God rather than possessions, status, and the like? Is that reflected in our choices, making Him a priority as we make our home a place where His Word is the unmistakable foundation and where our actions reflect that we are led by the truths found in it? If we decide poorly, we will negatively impact the generations that follow us. Let’s make our homes a haven where God and His will are clearly trusted and relied upon! 

Show Your Trust

Carl Pollard

In 1799, Conrad Reed discovered a seventeen-pound rock while fishing in Little Meadow Creek. Not knowing what it was made of, his family used it as a doorstop for three years. In 1802, his father, John Reed, took it to a jeweler who identified it as a lump of gold worth about $89,000. That lump of gold, which was used as a doorstop for three years in North Carolina, is one of the biggest gold nuggets ever found east of the Rockies. Until its composition was determined, its value was unknown. 

Until the composition of our faith is determined, its strength is unknown. God will give you the opportunity to prove your faith. What kind of faith will we have? James 2:20-26, “Do you want to be shown, you foolish person, that faith apart from works is useless? Was not Abraham our father justified by works when he offered up his son Isaac on the altar?  You see that faith was active along with his works, and faith was completed by his works; and the Scripture was fulfilled that says, “Abraham believed God, and it was counted to him as righteousness”—and he was called a friend of God. You see that a person is justified by works and not by faith alone. And in the same way was not also Rahab the prostitute justified by works when she received the messengers and sent them out by another way? For as the body apart from the spirit is dead, so also faith apart from works is dead.” 

These two examples could not be any different to the Jewish mind. Abraham, the father of faith, and Rahab, a Gentile prostitute. Abraham was justified by works. 

When was he justified? When he physically took his son to a physical mountain, and placed his physical son on a physical altar. HIS FAITH LED HIM TO DO SOMETHING IN THE WORLD AROUND HIM. What is your faith causing you to do? At some point your faith needs to move from your mind to the world around you. Rahab was justified through the “working of her faith.” Faith demands action. 

It requires Intellect, Emotion, and ACTION. 

Noah had a devoted faith so he believed and obeyed. God told him what was going to happen, and how to avoid the destruction of the world. And Noah believed and obeyed. God has warned us what is going to happen, and how to avoid the destruction of the world. Do you believe that? Then have a devoted faith. A belief that will lead you to devote your life to God. A faith that acts on the word of God. What is the designed end of faith? Why are we to have faith? Because true faith leads to justification (salvation) 

Just like Noah obeyed, and Abraham and Rahab obeyed. 

If Abraham didn’t offer Isaac, what kind of faith is that? If Noah didn’t build an ark, what kind of faith is that? God expects us to have a work of trust. Abraham didn’t know what would happen to Isaac, but he knew God made a promise to Him. Noah spent 100 years building a boat on dry land, but he knew that rain was coming. What will we do with our faith? 

God has warned us of the destruction of our world with fire one day; are you gonna build a boat? He has told us how to be saved–through His son. Many will struggle with dead faith. All talk, no action. Many struggle with demonic faith, God has their intellect and emotion, but He doesn’t have their life. Some have a devoted faith. A trust that is seen through the life they live. What kind of faith do I have? If I don’t have works, if God doesn’t own my life, my faith is no good. 

My belief in God is useless. The only thing that comes from that is regret, because one day we will know exactly why we aren’t in paradise with God. 

We failed to act on our belief.

Isaiah: Trusting The Holy One Who Rules The World (XXXIII)

Learning From Hezekiah’s Prayer (38:1-22)

Neal Pollard

The events of Isaiah 38 are recorded in 2 Kings 20 and 2 Chronicles 32:24. But these events seem to take place before the invasion of chapter 37 (see vs. 6), perhaps to show a contrast between Sennacherib’s failure and murder as he trusts in false gods and Hezekiah’s success and recovery as he trusts in the Holy One who rules the world. The chapter begins with Hezekiah being sick and at the point of death, Isaiah coming into his presence and saying, “Thus says the Lord: Set your house in order, for you shall die, you shall not recover” (1). Rather than accept that this was the final verdict, Hezekiah prays (2). 

  • His prayer is humble (3)–“Please, O Lord.” A correct view of self and our limitations and God and His limitlessness leads to this kind of prayer!
  • His prayer is bold (3)–“Remember how I have walked before you in faithfulness and a whole heart, and have done what is good in your sight.” How audacious to pray such to an all-knowing God! Could I pray that?
  • His prayer is emotional (3)–“Hezekiah wept bitterly.” He had reached the end of himself and reached up desperately to God.
  • His prayer is powerful (5)–The Lord sends word to Hezekiah through Isaiah: “I have heard your prayer; I have seen your tears.” Could there have been sweeter words for this king? What did James say? “The effective prayer of a righteous man can accomplish much” (Js. 5:16b). God assures him that He will add 15 years to his life (5) and deliver him and the Jews from Assyrian invasion (6). God gives Hezekiah a sign to know that He would favorably answer (7-8). 
  • His prayer is grateful (9-20). Isaiah records the beautiful writing of Hezekiah after God heals him. While not a part of the prayer in verse 3, it is addressed to God and reflects on the prayer. He tells us more about what he prayed, and the theme is predominantly gratitude and thanksgiving. After viewing his life as desperate and hopeless before God’s intervention (10-16), he acknowledges God’s greatness and goodness. “It was for my welfare” (17). “In love you have delivered my life…” (17). “You have cast all my sins behind your back” (17). His concluding summary? “The living, the living, he thanks you, as I do this day; the father makes known to the children your faithfulness” (19). As an added note, his prayer is trusting. He confidently ends, “The Lord will save me…” (20).

Isaiah had brought the king word of God’s favorable response and what He wanted Hezekiah to do (21). This is a bad chapter break, ending with Hezekiah’s follow-up question, “What is the sign that I shall go up to the house of the Lord?” (22). Chapter 39 gives the rest of the story and the end of the historical interlude involving Hezekiah.