Tag: promises

Origen’s “On First Principles” (Book II, Ch. 4.2)

Gary Pollard

[This is a continuing translation of Origen’s systematic theology in modern language]

It would take too long to gather every passage in the Gospels showing that the God of the Law and the God of the Gospel are one and the same. We’ll briefly look at the Acts of the Apostles. There, Stephen and the other apostles prayed to the God who made the sky and earth, who spoke through the prophets, and who is called “the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.” This was the same God who brought Israel out of Egypt. These compel us to have faith in the Creator and cultivate love for him in anyone who learns to think of him appropriately.

This fits with Jesus’s own teaching. When he was asked which commandment in the Law is greatest, he answered, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, and mind. And the second is like it: love your neighbor as yourself.” Then he added, “On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets.” If he was training someone to become his disciple, why would he compel them to love the God of the Law, unless he recognized that God as the one true God?

But suppose, despite all these clear indications, someone insists that Jesus was speaking about some other, unknown God when he said, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart…” In that case, how could Jesus reasonably say that “the Law and the Prophets” depend on these two commandments? If the Law and the Prophets truly come from the Creator—as even the opponents admit—how could they depend on commandments that come from a different God? What is foreign to him cannot be said to hang on him.

Paul’s own words make this point even more clearly. When he writes, “I thank my God, whom I serve from my ancestors with a pure conscience,” he shows that he did not turn to a new or foreign deity when he came to Christ. Who are Paul’s ancestors, if not those about whom he says, “Are they Hebrews? So am I. Are they Israelites? So am I”? The opening of Romans makes the same point for anyone who understands Paul’s language. He begins with, “Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, set apart for the gospel of God, which he promised beforehand through his prophets in the holy Scriptures, concerning his Son, who was born from the seed of David according to the flesh and appointed Son of God in power by his resurrection…” This proves that the God Paul preached is the same God who spoke long ago through the prophets and promised the coming of Christ.

Paul also interprets the Law in ways that reveal its divine purpose for the church. When he quoted the command, “Do not muzzle the ox that is treading out the grain,” he asked, “Does God care about the ox, or was this written for our sake?” And he answered, “It was written to to benefit us,” meaning that the God who gave the Law gave it for the benefit of the apostles who preach the gospel. Elsewhere Paul embraces the promises attached to the Law, saying, “Honor your father and mother, which is the first commandment with a promise: that it may go well with you, and that you may live long on the land the Lord your God gives you.” By this he clearly showed that the Law, its God, and the promises attached to it are good in his sight.

Trust In God

Faith is not a fleeting emotion or a vague hope; it is the foundation of a life surrendered to God. Hebrews 11:1 says, “Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.” This is not a blind leap but a resolute trust in the unseen promises of a God who never fails.

Carl Pollard

Faith is not a fleeting emotion or a vague hope; it is the foundation of a life surrendered to God. Hebrews 11:1 says, “Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.” This is not a blind leap but a resolute trust in the unseen promises of a God who never fails. Faith is what steadies us when life’s uncertainties threaten to unravel our peace. After all that has happened recently, faith has never been more essential for Christians. 

Scripture offers countless examples of faith in action. Take Abraham, called by God to leave his homeland for a place he did not know (Genesis 12:1-4). He had no map, no clear destination, only a promise from God. Yet he obeyed, not because he saw the outcome, but because he trusted the One who spoke. This is the essence of faith: moving forward when the path is hidden, anchored by confidence in God’s unchanging nature.

Jesus Himself taught that faith doesn’t need to be grand to be powerful. In Matthew 17:20, He said faith as small as a mustard seed could move mountains. This is the truth: God does not demand perfect or unshakeable faith, but simply a heart willing to trust Him one step at a time. Whether facing loss, uncertainty, or fear, faith is the quiet resolve to believe that God is sovereign, good, and working all things for His purpose (Romans 8:28).

In a world that prizes what can be seen and measured, faith sets us apart. It’s not ignorance or denial but a deliberate choice to rest in God’s truth over visible circumstances. When trials come, when the job is lost, the diagnosis is grim, or the future feels uncertain, faith is the anchor that holds us fast. It reminds us that we do not walk alone, because the One who holds all things together is with us (Colossians 1:17).

Faith, then, is both our shield and our strength. It is trusting God’s promises when doubt whispers and hope seems distant. It is the courage to say, “I cannot see the end, but I know the One who does.” And in that trust, we find the peace and power to endure.

Jesus The Light

A few weeks ago, I ordered motion-sensing nightlights from Amazon. They’re not super bright, but their gentle glow keeps me from stumbling over the toys my kids leave scattered across the house. I’m half-convinced they place those blocks strategically to cause maximum damage! Those nightlights, though, are lifesavers. 

Light changes everything.

Carl Pollard

A few weeks ago, I ordered motion-sensing nightlights from Amazon. They’re not super bright, but their gentle glow keeps me from stumbling over the toys my kids leave scattered across the house. I’m half-convinced they place those blocks strategically to cause maximum damage! Those nightlights, though, are lifesavers. 

Light changes everything. It reveals what’s hidden, guides us safely, and offers comfort. A lighthouse directs ships to shore. Headlights illuminate the road ahead. When a strange noise echoes at night, a flick of a switch brings reassurance. Light is security, hope, and power. Sadly, our world grows darker every day. We’re flooded with voices—news alerts, influencers, politicians, even loved ones—competing for our attention. The noise can be overwhelming, drowning out what’s true and steady. Yet, through this chaos, one voice shines clearly: Jesus, proclaiming, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life” (John 8:12). In a world of distractions and deception, our Savior says He is the way, the truth, the life—a lifeline for us all.

To grasp the weight of Jesus’ words, imagine the scene in John 8. It’s the Feast of Tabernacles in Jerusalem, a week-long celebration of God’s provision for Israel in the wilderness. Each night, massive lampstands illuminated the temple courts, their flames recalling the pillar of fire that guided God’s people (Exodus 13:21-22). These lights symbolized God’s presence and guidance. Amid this glowing backdrop, Jesus stands and declares, “I am the light of the world.” This isn’t subtle. He’s claiming to be the fulfillment of those lamps, the God who led Israel. His Jewish audience understood: Isaiah 60:19 promises, “The Lord will be your everlasting light,” and Psalm 27:1 says, “The Lord is my light and my salvation.” Jesus is saying, “I am that God.”

When Jesus says “I AM,” He echoes God’s name from the burning bush: “I AM WHO I AM” (Exodus 3:14). Each “I AM” statement in John’s Gospel is a bold claim to divinity. Some argue Jesus never claimed to be God, but His actions tell a different story. He calms storms, as God does in Job 38. He gives sight to the blind, fulfilling Isaiah’s prophecy. He calls Himself the Good Shepherd, like God in Jeremiah 31. When accused of breaking the Sabbath, He claims to be its Lord (Luke 6), working to sustain creation while we rest. The Jews knew what He meant, accusing Him of blasphemy (John 8:59).

This darkness Jesus speaks of isn’t just poetic—it’s the spiritual reality of a world and heart estranged from God. In John 8, we see it: Pharisees, blind with self-righteousness, ready to stone a woman caught in adultery; the woman, trapped in shame; the crowds, restless for meaning. That’s our world too—chasing success, pleasure, or power, yet left empty. 

Jesus’ light exposes our sin and need, but it also overcomes them. He promises, “Follow me, and you’ll have the light of life.” The blind man in John 9 didn’t just gain sight; he saw Jesus and worshipped (John 9:38). The Pharisees, clinging to pride, stayed blind (John 9:40-41).

So, what do we do? First, recognize your darkness—pride, shame, or chasing what can’t satisfy. Second, follow Jesus daily, trusting His truth over the world’s noise. Finally, reflect His light, forgiving others or sharing the gospel (Matthew 5:14-16). Jesus, the Light of the World, is the God who conquers death and guides us home. 

The darkness is real, but His light is stronger. Will you step into it?

All Things New

Revelation 21 isn’t fantasy; it’s certain. God will fulfill this promise. For early Christians and us, it’s a call to persevere.

Carl Pollard

The book of Revelation is often misunderstood, neglected, and misused. Its complex imagery and cultural gap make it tough for 21st-century readers. As Peter noted in 2 Peter 3:16, some “twist” such texts to their own destruction. Sadly, Revelation suffers this fate.

In Revelation 21, John shares a vision given to the seven churches of Asia—a message of victory through Christ. Written for Christians under Roman persecution, it offered hope amid suffering. Its Hebrew numerology and imagery resonated then, but today, many distort its meaning. Yet, Christ’s victory remains clear.

John sees the end: God’s triumph over evil, a glimpse of the world’s future, and the faithful’s reward. This prophecy is certain, like all God’s promises. For those in Christ, it’s the ultimate experience. Revelation 21 shows God making “all things new.” Notice what is new: 

A New Creation (Verses 1-2)

John sees a new heaven and earth, the old gone. No sea—symbol of chaos—remains. The New Jerusalem descends, God’s people radiant, ready for eternal fellowship. God restores creation, erasing all brokenness.

A New Connection (Verses 3-4)

God will dwell with His people, His presence intimate. Tears, death, and pain vanish. This is perfect fellowship, every sorrow erased by God’s nearness.

A Final Condition (Verses 6-8)

God declares, “I am making all things new!” He offers eternal life freely, but those rejecting Him face separation. This is God’s final justice and mercy.

Revelation 21 isn’t fantasy; it’s certain. God will fulfill this promise. For early Christians and us, it’s a call to persevere. In a broken world, we await a new creation, connection, and condition. Let’s live faithfully, eyes on the day God makes all things new.

“Do You Fear Death?”

Gary Pollard

Davy Jones asked this question in the second Pirates of the Caribbean. “Do you fear(rrr) that dark ahbees?” It’s basically rhetorical, most people would say, “Duh.” Staying alive drives most of our behavior. We avoid certain activities if there’s even a modest possibility of death! Not everyone is negatively preoccupied with this unknown state, but many (perhaps most) are. Why do we fear death? And can we be certain that there’s life after death? We’ll look at those in order. 

  1. Why do we fear death? There are too many reasons to list here, so we’ll look at just the big ones. We fear death because it’s unknown. It’s been thousands of years since someone came back to life, and they didn’t share any details about it. We fear what we don’t understand. It’s not physically possible to study consciousness after death, so it’s the ultimate unknown! This is a religious blog, so we’ll approach this from that angle. John tells us that if we fear death two things are to blame: one, we’re instinctively afraid of God’s punishment because our lives aren’t where they need to be. Two, we haven’t matured in love. God’s perfect love overrides our fear of death (I Jn 4.17-18). If someone orders their life around their fear of death, they need to make changes. Adopt selfless love — “everyone who lives in love lives in God, and God lives in them” (4.16). John also says, “If God’s love is made perfect in us, we can be without fear on the day when God judges the world. We will have no fear because in this world we are like Jesus.” This tracks with what Jesus said in Lk 21.25-28, “They [all people on Earth] will be afraid and worried about what will happen to the world. … When these things happen, stand up tall1 and don’t be afraid.2 Know that it is almost time for God to free you.” Jesus’s sacrifice removed our fear of death (Hb 2.15). Death is just a “sting”, it’s the consequence of our sin. But it’s no longer an issue. It’s only for a microsecond (from our perspective), and the best thing that could happen to a believer (I Cor 15.51-52, 56-57). Jesus took away any legitimate fear of death because it no longer means we’re destined for punishment! 
  2. Can we know for sure that there is life after death? From a material perspective, no.  Not yet, anyways. Even Solomon struggled with this question (Ecc 3.21), “Who knows what happens to a person’s spirit? Who knows if a human’s spirit goes up to God while an animal’s just goes into the ground?” When every person who ever lived comes back to life at Jesus’s return, we’ll know for sure. What we were only confident in — even though we hadn’t yet observed it firsthand — will become incontrovertibly real. For now, our confidence comes from promises made in scripture, and from a universal, intuitive sense that something exists beyond this life (Is 25.8; Hos 13.14; I Cor 15.57; II Pt 3.13; Rv 21.4). 

  1.  This is imperative mood (command) in Gk. The idea is to stand up with confidence.  ↩︎
  2.  Also imperative mood, lit. “raise up your head”.   ↩︎

The One Who Came Back

Carl Pollard

Luke 17:11-19, ”On the way to Jerusalem he was passing along between Samaria and Galilee. And as he entered a village, he was met by ten lepers, who stood at a distance and lifted up their voices, saying, “Jesus, Master, have mercy on us.” When he saw them he said to them, “Go and show yourselves to the priests.” And as they went they were cleansed. Then one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, praising God with a loud voice; and he fell on his face at Jesus’ feet, giving him thanks. Now he was a Samaritan. Then Jesus answered, “Were not ten cleansed? Where are the nine? Was no one found to return and give praise to God except this foreigner?” And he said to him, “Rise and go your way; your faith has made you well.”

Two friends met each other on the street one day. One looked upset, almost on the verge of tears. His friend asked, “What’s wrong?” The other answered and said, “well, three weeks ago, my uncle died and left me forty thousand dollars.” The friend responded and said, “That’s a lot of money.” 

“But you see, two weeks ago, a cousin I never even knew died, and he left me eighty-five thousand dollars.” The guy answered back, “Sounds to me that you’ve been very blessed.” “You don’t understand!” he interrupted. “Last week my great-aunt passed away. I inherited almost a quarter of a million from her.” Now the man’s friend was really confused. “Then, why are you so upset!?” “Because…this week I got nothing!”

We can often come to the point where we expect to get certain blessings that God never promised us, and when they do not come, it is easy to get bitter. As Christians, our lives should be filled with gratitude. There’s so much that God has already done for us! But there are times where we expect God to do things, or give us something that isn’t promised to us. When the moment comes and we don’t get it, what is our response? If God’s answer is yes, be grateful. If God’s answer is no, be grateful. 

Gratitude is a forgotten and dying attitude. Which sadly, has long been difficult for mankind to express. A well known example of this is found in Luke 17. This account is unique to the gospel of Luke. Up to this point Jesus has been giving parable after parable, but what happens in 11-19 takes place on their journey to Jerusalem? 

A real life example that we should take to heart. Gratitude is a lost art. 

But we can learn what God expects of us from these few verses: 

  1. Gratitude Is Not Conditional (11-14) 
  2. Gratitude Must Lead To Action (15-16) 
  3. Gratitude Is Uncommon (17-18) 
  4. Gratitude Is Life Changing (19)

Ten were healed, but only one came back. And he came back because he realized that he had something to do. Jesus changed his life, and he couldn’t just leave and not show his appreciation. He HAD to turn back, because Jesus was his salvation!

I’d like to suggest that as Christian’s we ALL have a reason to turn back. 

Eph. 2:4, “But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ—by grace you have been saved.“

God has shown His love, so let’s show our gratitude. You can do that by praising Him each day, because every day He is with us and is forgiving of our faults. Show God that you are grateful for what He has done by giving your life to Him. There’s no greater joy than trying to give back to a God that has given so much to us.

The Showdown Between Wisdom And Folly

Friday’s Column: Brent’s Bent

Brent Pollard

Solomon takes two primary approaches in the first nine chapters of Proverbs to encourage us to become wiser. First, Solomon assumes the role of a father instructing his sons to heed his sage counsel (Proverbs 1.8; 4.1). Second, Solomon uses the personification of wisdom as a woman to provide his students with something tangible to follow (Proverbs 1.20; 8.1).  

Regarding this latter approach, Solomon even provides a foil to Lady Wisdom in the personification of folly. So, those who want to become wise have someone to follow and avoid. We have seen Miss Folly wield her influence over men and women in chapters one through eight, nearly coming out of the shadows in the form of the adulteress in Proverbs 7. Yet, in Proverbs 9, Miss Folly comes out into the open to extend her competing invitation alongside Lady Wisdom’s offer. 

Wisdom and Folly compete for the same audience. They both desire to receive the companionship of the naïve and those lacking understanding (9.4). There is no need to compel the righteous or wise as they will already want to be in the companionship of Wisdom (9.8-9). But Wisdom opens her house and has her servants invite people to her feast (9.1-6). 

Wisdom is a gracious hostess. She has a great house with seven pillars. In terms of the identity of these pillars, is it a coincidence that our Lord’s half-brother uses seven adjectives to describe the wisdom from above in James 3.17? If not, the pillars of Wisdom’s house are purity, peace, obedience, industry, impartiality, and sincerity. Indeed, these qualities are not inconsistent with the wisdom Solomon encourages others to possess. And entry into Wisdom’s house multiplies one’s days and adds years to their life (9.11). 

Wisdom does more than send out her servants to garner the most attendants. Instead, she calls out to the people from a high vantage point above the city. Lady Wisdom is proactive in her approach, demonstrating her genuine concern for people. But despite how admirable her actions are, one realizes that she must be passionate because her enemy can accomplish much more while doing less. 

Miss Folly ensures others can see her (9.14), but she does even get up out of her seat. As I read about Miss Folly’s approach, I could not help but think of a prostitute’s solicitation. For example, if one visits Amsterdam’s red-light district, he sees sex workers standing in store-front windows as if on display in lingerie, smiling and flirting with the passersby. Yes, if someone walks through the red-light district, he knows what he wants. I believe Miss Folly likely realizes this as well. 

One has to put forth no effort to remain naïve. The wisdom-averse can continue to scoff and act wickedly (9.7). However, this one believes Miss Folly when she says, “Stolen water is sweet; And bread eaten in secret is pleasant” (9.17 NASB1995). In other words, Miss Folly requires no discipline from her guests. They do not have to reform themselves or strive to do and be better.  

Miss Folly would be nothing more than a nuisance if it weren’t for her boisterousness attracting the attention of even those attempting to keep their paths straight (9.13-15). But, as Christians know, the alternative to the “strait gate” and narrow way is that colloquial “highway to hell” (Matthew 7.13-14). Solomon warns us that Miss Folly’s houseguests end up in the depths of Sheol (9.18). That is reason enough to avoid Miss Folly and attend Lady Wisdom’s feast. 

We must choose which invitation to accept. We will listen to Lady Wisdom, who has done a lot of planning and always keeps her promises. Or Lady Folly, who promises much but delivers nothing? The choice should be obvious.   

The Gripsholm Terror

Tuesday’s Column: Dale Mail

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Dale Pollard

The Gripsholm Castle, in Sweden, is home to the world’s oldest portrait gallery. This might be of interest to some art enthusiasts, but there’s something else in this castle you’d never forget seeing. Inside of a glass box in Gripsholm’s upper armory, there is an 18th century stuffed lion. This lion, nicknamed “Leo,” is a beast that tends to provoke a wide arrange of emotions from it’s viewers. It has a disfigured face and human like teeth with an oversized (fake) tongue hanging out of it’s mouth. The history of the lion is also somewhat of a mystery. However, there’s a particular legend about this taxidermy terror that the writer finds hilarious. In 1731 the king of Sweden was given an incredible gift. He was once the proud owner of a handsome lion and he loved this beast. Unfortunately, it died at a young age and the king’s heart was broken. He sent the lion’s pelt and bones to a taxidermist to have it stuffed so that it’s memory would be kept “alive.” There was only one problem. The taxidermist had no idea what a lion actually looked like because he had never seen one before. This being the days before the internet, he was forced to try his very best. The finished product remains part atrocity and part masterpiece to this day.

 In 1 Peter 5.8 we are warned about our adversary, the Devil, and that he is currently stalking the earth looking for his next potential prey. The sad truth is the fact that many in this world aren’t sure what this lion looks like. The Devil can disguise himself in the form of sinful pleasures and promises and as a result he has become the, “King of this world” (John 12.31). The Scriptures and the king of Sweden can both agree that things will get ugly if we aren’t sure what a lion looks like. 

THE POWER OF HOPE

Monday’s Column: Neal at the Cross

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Neal Pollard

Have you been struggling with some feelings of hopelessness lately? Whenever we have a hard time seeing the end in sight or we face uncertainty or are exposed to fears and anxieties, it can undermine our determination to have hope. Yet, over a hundred times in Scripture, God points us to the hope His children have through Him and His promises. We have such a resource because of the rock-solid expectation He provides. Whatever may happen to us this week, this month, or this year, the Christian can look forward with confidence at the fulfillment of what God through Christ promises us. And Scripture says it so many ways:

–Hope does not disappoint (Romans 5:5)
–Hope helps us persevere with eagerness (Romans 8:24-25)
–Hope causes rejoicing (Romans 12:12)
–Hope fills you with all joy and peace in believing (Romans 15:13)
–Hope is an abiding quality, alongside such elite qualities as faith and love (1 Corinthians 13:13)
–Hope enables deliverance (2 Corinthians 1:10)
–There is one, unconquerable hope (Ephesians 1:18; 4:4)
–Hope is tied to earnest expectation and boldness (2 Corinthians 3:12; Philippians 1:20)
–Hope is connected to steadfastness (Colossians 1:23; 1 Thessalonians 1:3)
–Hope offsets grief (1 Thessalonians 4:13)
–Hope tunes our hearts to look for Jesus’ appearing (1 Timothy 4:10; Titus 2:13)
–Hope encourages the pursuit of our eternal life (Titus 1:2; 3:7)
–Hope anchors the soul (Hebrews 6:19)
–Hope helps us draw near to God (Hebrews 7:19)
–Hope is tied to endurance (Hebrews 10:23)
–Hope is instrumental to faith (Hebrews 11:1)
–Hope prepares for eternity (Colossians 1:5; 1 Peter 1:3,13)
–Hope helps give a defense (1 Peter 3:15)
–Hope purifies (1 John 3:3)

Remember this:

“How blessed is he whose help is the God of Jacob, Whose hope is in the Lord his God” (Psalm 146:5).
“The hope of the righteous is gladness…” (Proverbs 10:28).
“The Lord is my portion,” says my soul, “Therefore I have hope in Him” (Lamentations 3:24).
“Christ Jesus…is our hope” (1 Timothy 1:1). 

You will face nothing today or ever that is too destructive, terrifying, or powerful to offset this hope! That doesn’t mean be rash, reckless, or rebellious. It does mean be faith-filled, optimistic, and courageous! Are your faith and hope in God (1 Peter 1:21)?  

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The Art of Excuses (Jeremiah 1)

Thursday’s Column: Captain’s Blog

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Carl Pollard

Someone once said, “Excuses are tools of the incompetent, and those who specialize in them seldom go far.” Ben Franklin is quoted saying, “He that is good for making excuses is seldom good for anything else.” 

Jeremiah had a complete list of excuses ready when God called on him to be a prophet to the people of Israel. Many times the excuses of Jeremiah become ours when we are called on to proclaim God’s Word to this world. We see that with every excuse Jeremiah made, God gave promises in return. 

First, Jeremiah said, “the task ahead is difficult.” Jeremiah 1:5 says, ““Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, And before you were born I consecrated you; I have appointed you a prophet to the nations.” This is God speaking to Jeremiah, and notice what He says, “I have appointed you a prophet to the nations.” The task ahead is difficult, so Jeremiah gives off a list of excuses for why he isn’t the one for this job. God gives a promise for Jeremiah’s excuses. He says, “before I formed you in the womb I knew you.” God knew that Jeremiah was the one for the job, even if Jeremiah didn’t think so. 

Second, Jeremiah said, “I don’t have the talent.” Jeremiah 1:6 says, “Then I said, “Alas, Lord God! Behold, I do not know how to speak, because I am a youth.” Many times people blame their cowardice on a lack of talent. They say that it isn’t natural to them, that there are others more suited for the job. But God knows Jeremiah and the great good he can accomplish. In Jeremiah 1:9, God promises that He would put His words in Jeremiah’s mouth.  

As Christians today we have these same promises for our worries and excuses. Let’s not blame our cowardice on a lack of talent or the difficulty of the task. That isn’t a good excuse to God. Nothing is. He has promised that He will be with us, and we have HIS Word to teach to others. Let’s trust in that. 

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Appreciating The Blessings In A Key Text

Neal Pollard

Joshua 21:43-45 is the key text in that book because at this point that Joshua can say that God gave everything that had been promised. With the settling of the land, the land promise made to Abraham was now fulfilled. Israel was not fully a nation after becoming a people and having law, but now they are. Notice the facets of God’s promise to them.

“So the Lord gave Israel all the land which He had sworn to give to their Fathers” (43). God gave them physical blessings. They owned and called home the land God promised their ancestors.

“The Lord gave them rest on every side” (44). He gave them emotional blessings. This was a long time in coming for these battle-weary warriors. The anxiety of being the underdog, of facing frightening foes, all of that (at least for now) was behind them.

“No one of all their enemies stood before them; the Lord gave all their enemies into their hand” (44). He gave them spiritual blessings. These idolaters and heathen people could not stand before them and the Lord dispossessed them, giving them into the hands of His chosen people.

No wonder this summary statement is made: “Not one of the good promises which the Lord had made to the house of Israel failed; all came to pass” (45). This was the God of Joshua. It’s also the God of us.

This text shows us how comprehensively God blessed the lives of His children. These verses speak of a material inheritance. Even if it is the choicest spot on the globe, it cannot compare to what God will give to His faithful. Let’s rejoice in the hope Peter shares, regarding the promise of His coming (2 Pet. 3:4). He writes, “But the day of the Lord will come like a thief, in which the heavens will pass away with a roar and the elements will be destroyed with intense heat, and the earth and its works will be burned up. Since all these things are to be destroyed in this way, what sort of people ought you to be in holy conduct and godliness, looking for and hastening the coming of the day of God, because of which the heavens will be destroyed by burning, and the elements will melt with intense heat! But according to His promise we are looking for new heavens and a new earth, in which righteousness dwells” (2 Pet. 3:10-14).

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The supposed “Garden of Gethsemane” (photo credit: Carla Moore)

Some Powerful Promises

Neal Pollard

“You Will Have…”

—Treasure in heaven if you follow Jesus (Mat. 19:21; Mk. 10:21).
—Honor in the sight of all if you are humble (Lk. 14:10).
—Praise of rulers and authority if you do good (Rom. 13:3).
—An answer for the sinfully proud if you are persuaded about the Lord (2 Cor. 5:12).
—Brief tribulation if you are faithful, but then the crown of life (Rev. 2:10).

“You Will Be…”

—Judged in the way you judge (Mat. 7:2).
—Hated by all for Christ’s name (Mat. 10:22).
—Justified or condemned by your words (Mat. 12:37).
—Sons of the Most High by loving unconditionally (Lk. 6:35).
—Repaid for charitable kindness at the resurrection of the righteous (Lk. 14:14).
—Free indeed if freed by the Son (Jn. 8:36).
—Saved by faith in Christ (Ac. 16:31).
—Saved by confessing Christ (Rom. 10:9).
—Able to overcome any temptation (1 Co. 10:13).
—Enriched by being generous (2 Co. 9:11).
—Able to stand firm against the devil’s schemes if you put on the full armor of God (Eph. 6:11ff).
—A good servant of Christ Jesus by pointing out His Word (1 Tim. 4:6).
—Tested (Rev. 2:10).

“You Will Not…”

—Enter the kingdom of heaven without a righteousness surpassing the scribes and Pharisees (Mt. 5:20).
—Enter the kingdom of heaven without being converted like little children (Mt. 18:3).
—Carry out the desire of the flesh if you walk by the Spirit (Gal. 5:16).
—Grieve like the hopeless if you face the death of a faithful Christian (1 Th. 4:13).
—Grow weary and lose heart if you consider Jesus’ example of endurance (Heb. 12:3).

“You Will See…”

—Others faults more fairly when you look accurately at your own (Mt. 7:5).
—The Majesty and power of Jesus if you look with spiritual eyes (Mt. 26:64).
—The glory of God if you believe (Jn. 11:40).
—The King some day (Jn. 16:16-19).

“You Will Know…”

—Teachers by their fruits (Mt. 7:16,20).
—The emancipating truth (Jn. 8:32).
—The hope of God’s calling through faith in His revealed will (Eph. 1:18).
—How to respond to every man if you use gracious, well-seasoned speech (Col. 4:6).
—How to conduct yourself in the Lord’s church if you consult God’s Word (1 Tim. 3:15).

“You Will Receive…”

—All things you ask in prayer, believing (Mt. 21:22).
—If you ask in Christ’s name (Jn. 16:24).
—The gift of the Holy Spirit if you repent and are baptized for the remission of sins (Acts 2:38).
—The reward of the inheritance as the result of works of obedience (Col. 3:24).
—The unfading crown of glory if you are an elder who serves faithfully (1 Pet. 5:4).

In view of just a portion of God’s generosity, may we stand on the promises of God today and every day. One of the most thrilling statements of all Scripture is this: “He who promised is faithful” (Heb. 10:23). Whatever you are struggling with, claim this ironclad fact with its many implications! Holding onto it, surely you can handle any trial, temptation, or trouble you are facing.

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Jahaziel’s Comforting Message

Neal Pollard

Jahaziel would have been a man of interesting and diverse talents. As a Levite, he would have served with the priests in the temple. As one of the sons of Asaph, he would have either been a literal descendant “or more probably [one of] a class of poets and singers who recognized him as [his] master” (Easton, M. G. Easton’s Bible dictionary 1893 : n. pag. Print.). But on the occasion recorded in 2 Chronicles 20, Jahaziel would have been a “seer” or prophet. The Spirit of the Lord comes upon him during the reign of Jehoshaphat, a righteous king of Judah (2 Chron. 20:14). Judah has been invaded by the Moabites and the Ammonites (20:1). Jehoshaphat’s response is righteous, seeking the Lord, proclaiming a fast, and leading a prayer service (20:3-13). Entire families, men, infants, women, and children were all assembled, “standing before the Lord” (13). Then, it happens. Jahaziel is the man God chooses and uses to respond to the touching prayer of the king.  What can we learn from Jahaziel’s message?

  • It was predicated upon the Lord’s power to deliver (15). He says, “The battle is not yours but God’s.” They were helpless alone and the message was that God was able to deliver them. The power belongs to the Lord. How we need that reminder today! In our personal battles with sin and trials, we so often are guilty of going it alone. Isn’t it thrilling to know that we have help in our fiercest battles (cf. 1 Cor. 10:13)?
  • It was precise in its instructions (16). Jahazael told them a specific time (“tomorrow”), a specific action (“go down against them”) and a specific place (“at the end of the valley in front of the wilderness of Jeruel”).  God wanted His people to know exactly what to expect and exactly what He expected them to do.  What comfort it is to know that God has laid out His instructions precisely and plainly. He’s not trying to trick us. He has told us what we need to do and what is ultimately coming when all is said and done (cf. Heb. 9:27).
  • It pointed to the salvation of the Lord (17).  The height of comfort might be this phrase: “station yourselves, stand and see the salvation of the LORD on your behalf.”  From the proper position, we can see the salvation of the Lord on our behalf. The hard-hearted, indifferent, bitter, and negative person is spiritually blind to it, but we should see it! When I am stationed at the pinnacle of prayer, the citadel of Scripture, the lookout of the Lord’s Supper, the gate of gratitude, or the fortress of forgiveness, I see the salvation of the Lord. Like gazing intently at a masterpiece, the longer I look the greater the nuances, details, and expertise emerge from the canvas of His work in my life. We can turn nowhere besides Calvary to see the clearest demonstration of the Lord’s salvation on our behalf!
  • It promised divine assistance (17). Jahaziel’s conclusion is profound. He ends, “the LORD is with you.” Sure enough, “The Lord set ambushes” (22), “the Lord had made them rejoice over their enemies” (27), and “the Lord had fought against the enemies of Israel” (29). The result was peace and rest (30). Are you confident of that? Whatever you are going through now and whatever lies ahead, do you believe that He is with you (cf. Mat. 28:20; Heb. 13:5-6)? He has never failed and by His perfect character He never will!
  • It provoked praise and thanksgiving (18-19). From the top down, reverent worship and loud praise followed the mighty message of Jahaziel. This was faith in action! They believed the Word and proceeded as if it had already happened. Shouldn’t we be so confident in God’s promises that we respond in the same way? What struggle will you face that’s bigger than the promise of God?

Just like that, Jahaziel fades back into the woodwork of obscurity! His minute of sacred fame came and went, but how masterfully the Master used Him. However anonymous or average you may believe yourself to be, God has a greater message for you to share than He did for Jahaziel! As you faithfully share it, you can help produce an even greater outcome in the life of somebody you know. Perhaps He will use you to save someone from spiritual rather than physical death!  Be on the lookout for that opportunity today and share God’s comforting message.

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The wilderness of Jeruel

Launch Out Into The Deep

Neal Pollard

When Jesus met Peter, it may have seemed like an ordinary day to the Galilean fisherman. Simon Peter and his partners had just spent a long night fishing with no results.  You can imagine they were irritated and frustrated, maybe even feeling sorry for themselves. Then, Jesus commandeered Simon’s boat and used it to teach. This presumably would have been Peter’s first impression of Christ, though we do not know how closely he was paying attention to the Lord.  In Luke 5:4, Jesus stops preaching to the crowd and addresses Peter. He says, “Launch out into the deep and let down your nets for a catch.” Jesus has ulterior motives, but the command is for Peter to literally cast his nets to try to make a literal catch of fish. Immediately, though, Peter is exposed to something far greater than anything earthly or material. Notice how this account illustrates the call of scripture in which Christ tells us, like Peter to launch out into the deep in faith to do great things for Him.

Launch out into the deep…even if, despite great effort, you have failed in the past (Luke 5:5). Simon explained that he and his associates had struck out overnight. Jesus was telling him not to worry about the past. He tells us the same things today. If you have failed in trying to do right or have succeeded in doing wrong, don’t give up hope. Launch out again!

Launch out into the deep…at the prompting of God’s Word (Luke 5:5). Simon was willing. What a great character trait. He tells Jesus, “Nevertheless at Your word I will let down the net.” Simon says, “I value and respect your word enough to try again where I failed in the past.” Do we trust God’s promises and revere God’s commands enough to keep trying and biting off big things for the Lord?

Launch out into the deep…and involve others with you (Luke 5:7). Of course, with the Lord’s help, Simon became a success. In fact, the disciple knew immediately that he was not big enough to tackle his opportunities alone. He got his partners involved. In the Lord’s church today, each of us as Christians are partners and associates together with Christ (2 Cor. 5:18-6:1). Launching out into the deep requires involving as many as possible, for the task is so great and too much for one alone.

Launch out into the deep…and astonishing things can happen (Luke 5:9-11). First, the catch of fish is astonishing to them. Then, Jesus’ commissioning of them is astonishing (to turn from fish to men). Finally, their response is astonishing. They get to land, leave their boats and all they have, and follow Jesus. Eventually, they change the entire world! Launch out into the deep.  Who knows what you can do through Christ (cf. Phil. 4:13), but it will be astonishingly amazing.

Obviously, this was about men and not about fish.  Jesus was not interested in making them rich fishermen in Galilee.  He was looking to enrich the people of Galilee and far beyond through these fishermen. All it took was for some men who believed in God’s power to launch out into the deep.

A Daring Escape

Neal Pollard

Before Arthur Turner “Bud” Morris died at home on December 15, 2012, following service to our country in the army in World War II and a 35-year career as a truck driver for Carolina Freight (see more here), he granted an interview for Atlanta’s NBC affiliate, WXIA, in which he not only claimed to be the cousin of famous Alcatraz escapee Frank Morris but more boldly that he helped him escape. In the interview (WXIA), he tells the reporter about giving multiple payoffs to prison guards presumably to get them to look the other way.  Frank Morris, said to have had an IQ of 133, and brothers John and Clarence Anglin of Lee County, Georgia, disappeared and were thought drowned in the cold waters of the San Francisco Bay.  However, anecdotal evidence and alleged sightings are offered to suggest these men actually did escape from the infamous Alcatraz Prison.

Whether or not they escaped from a place formerly thought impregnable and impossible, you and I have the opportunity to escape something far more imposing.  Peter writes the scattered saints in his second epistle, reminding them of those exceeding great and precious promises that they came to possess “having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust” (1:4).  The way to complete that escape is listed out, starting in verse five: faith, virtue, knowledge, self-control, perseverance, godliness, brotherly kindness, and love.  I have lived long enough to see those young, middle-aged, and old, caught in the trap of the world.  They started or became faithless, without virtue, spiritually ignorant, undisciplined, without endurance, ungodly, unkind, and unloving.  They didn’t just slip up and find themselves guilty of these things from time to time. They allowed themselves to be imprisoned to such things because of their “lust,” their desire for the world.  Their view of past and future were distorted, and it hurt them in their present, day to day lives (cf. 1:9).

For Morris and the Anglins, the promise was freedom from a dank prison and the hopelessness of their sentence there.  For you and me, it is the exceeding great and precious promises that should cause us to sharpen our view of the past we’ve escaped and the future we trust in.  Don’t give up!  Continue your daring escape!