Tag: worship

To Be Like Obed-Edom

Neal Pollard

When studying 2 Samuel 6, we most often reference Uzzah (or even Ahio or David). Yet, there is another man who we rarely talk about in that incident. After the failed and fatal attempt to move the ark of the Lord by ox cart, “David took it aside to the house of Obed-edom the Hittite” (10). The ark remained at his house for three months (11). Nothing is said of Obed-edom’s character per se. We know he was a Levitical gatekeeper (1 Chron. 15:18) and later appointed a minister of the ark (1 Chron. 16:5), but we are not told why he was appointed to these roles. As much as anything, it was likely a matter of ancestry.

But there is no mistaking what happens in those three months the ark resided in his house. Scripture says that “the Lord blessed Obed-edom and all his household” (2 Sam. 6:11b). Again, David reflects on the situation, with others affirming to him, “The Lord has blessed the house of Obed-edom and all that belongs to him, on account of the ark of God” (2 Sam. 6:12a). This news made the king glad (12b).

There are some encouraging truths gleaned from this brief notation in Scripture.

  • Blessed is the home where God’s presence is found (Psa. 128:1-4; Prov. 3:33; 14:11).
  • Scripture tells us that where the Lord is, there is not only blessing (2 Sam. 6:11-12), but peace (Num. 6:24-26), light (Psa. 36:9), refuge (Psa. 46:1), joy (Psa. 16:11), strength (Isa. 41:10), and freedom (2 Cor. 3:17).
  • Others are encouraged when they see the impact of God in our homes (cf. 1 Pet. 2:12; Acts 10:1-2).
  • The Lord actively works for good in our lives and even our possessions where He is the heart and center (Matt. 6:33).
  • When others see God doing good in our lives, they are encouraged to do good, too (Psa. 40:1-3).
  • We should be one whom others think to entrust with spiritual things–David chose Obed-Edom’s house (cf. 2 Tim. 2:2).

This account is not at all about Obed-edom as we have no further insight into his character. It is about the power of the presence of God in the home. God blesses and enhances every home where He is made to be at home. We bless everyone and everything in our home when God is firmly and visibly there! In this way, may we all strive to be like Obed-edom.

The Debt Of Love

The hymn “Alas and Did My Savior Bleed” captures the heart of the Christian response to Jesus’ sacrifice: “But drops of grief can ne’er repay the debt of love I owe; Here, Lord, I give myself away, ’tis all that I can do.” This “debt of love” isn’t like the $18 trillion in financial debt Americans carry…

Carl Pollard

The hymn “Alas and Did My Savior Bleed” captures the heart of the Christian response to Jesus’ sacrifice: “But drops of grief can ne’er repay the debt of love I owe; Here, Lord, I give myself away, ’tis all that I can do.” This “debt of love” isn’t like the $18 trillion in financial debt Americans carry, like mortgages, credit cards, or student loans. Unlike monetary debt, the debt of love is a lifelong obligation, as Paul writes in Romans 13:8, “Owe no one anything, except to love one another.” 

In Luke 7:36-50, we see this debt of love unfold in an account of grace and judgment, humility and pride. Jesus dines at the home of Simon, a Pharisee who prides himself on strict adherence to the law. In first-century Jewish culture, dining was an honor, yet Simon’s hospitality is cold. He offers Jesus no water for His feet, no kiss of greeting, no oil for His head. These were customary acts of respect (vv. 44-46). His indifference reveals a heart of pride.

Then enters an uninvited woman, a “sinner” (hamartōlos in Greek), likely notorious in her community, possibly a prostitute. Her presence in a Pharisee’s home is unheard of, yet she brings an alabaster jar of perfume, worth a year’s wages, and pours out her worship. Weeping loudly, she wets Jesus’ feet with her tears, wipes them with her hair, kisses them, and anoints them with perfume (v. 38). While Simon is judging silently the whole time! He questions Jesus’ discernment: “If this man were a prophet, he would know who is touching him” (v. 39). Simon’s pride blinds him, while the woman’s humility drives her to worship.

Jesus responds with a parable: two debtors owe a moneylender, one 500 denarii (two years’ wages), the other 50 (two months’ income). Neither can pay, but both are forgiven. “Which will love him more?” Jesus asks (vv. 41-42). Simon answers, “The one who had the bigger debt forgiven” (v. 43). The woman, aware of her great debt, offers extravagant love; Simon, assuming his debt is small, offers none.

Jesus contrasts their actions: “You gave me no water… but she wet my feet with her tears… You gave me no kiss, but she has not stopped kissing my feet” (vv. 44-45). He says, “Her many sins have been forgiven—as her great love has shown” (v. 47). Her love doesn’t earn forgiveness; it’s evidence of grace received through faith (v. 50). Simon, believing he needs little forgiveness, loves little.

So where do we stand? Like Simon, do we judge others while ignoring our own sin? Romans 3:23 reminds us, “All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” Colossians 2:14 declares Jesus “canceled the record of debt… nailing it to the cross.” If our love for Him has grown cold, perhaps we’ve forgotten the weight of that debt.

Picture this woman, broken at Jesus’ feet, offering her tears and treasure. Now picture yourself. Are you offering pride or worship? Let’s remember the cross, where Jesus paid our unpayable debt. We would do well to pour out our lives like her perfume, through worship, obedience, and love for others.

God’s People Care

Neal Pollard

  • For Their Community. Patriotic, civic-minded, generous, helpful, involved, and connected, God’s people strive to be good citizens and neighbors. Acts 2:47a; 5:13b).
  • For Visitors. Smiling, greeting, welcoming, inviting, and connecting, God’s people know that many visitors to church events and assemblies are future brothers and sisters and they want to do what they can to help facilitate that objective. Colossians 4:6; Philippians 2:15; Matthew 5:13-16.
  • For The Lost. Co-workers, family, friends, fellow-students, acquaintances, neighbors, and strangers, God’s people see the people in their lives as fellow-strugglers whose souls will spend eternity somewhere and they want it to be in heaven with them. Daniel 12:3; James 5:19-20; Proverbs 11:30
  • For Each Other. Empathetic, tuned-in, concerned, familiar, intuitive, and loving, God’s people rise to occasions of crisis and love in ordinary moments because they are intimately connected to each other by precious blood and like precious faith. 1 Thessalonians 5:11; Romans 12:9-10.
  • For Children. Wise, visionary, foresightful, nurturing, and of tender affection, God’s people hear their Savior’s admonition to imitate, encourage, and develop these impressionable, dear ones. Matthew 18:3ff; 19:14
  • For The Elderly. Concerned, attentive, prayerful, and connected, God’s people know it’s wise and important not to neglect and forget the part of our population that grows more lonely, isolated, frail, and needy with each passing day and they let them know they see and care. James 1:27; Proverbs 16:31; Proverbs 23:22
  • For Their Families. Responsible, judicious, properly-prioritizing, and consistent, God’s people realize that no advancement or success in the world is worth sacrificing the souls they most cherish and can most influence. Matthew 6:33; Ephesians 6:1-4; Proverbs 22:6; Deuteronomy 6:6-7
  • For Their Souls. Vigilant, conscientious, self-aware, and introspective, God’s people know all too well their humanity, weakness, and inconsistencies but grow more in love with God and heaven and less in love with this world every day. 1 John 2:15-17; Matthew 22:37-40.
  • For God’s Will. Whether gospel meetings, retreats, ladies days, daily Bible reading, workshops, lectureships, special or regular Bible classes, or worship assemblies, God’s people so often show up hungry for the bread of life and the spiritual meat, thirsty for the milk of the word, and considering all of it sweeter than honey. Hebrews 10:24-25; John 6:35; Hebrews 5:14; 1 Peter 2:2; Psalm 19:10

Aren’t there so many reasons to love God’s people?

A couple of pictures (credit Russell Simpson) from Saturday night’s Trunk or Treat. God’s people at Cumberland Trace really shined!

The Great Invitation: Wheat Among The Tares

Gaining entry into God’s kingdom involves more than just accepting an invitation; it requires embracing God’s means of achieving righteousness. We cannot enter based on our own merits, trying to present our achievements as if they were fine garments

Brent Pollard

During His final week, Jesus told this story while standing in the temple courts, facing hostile religious leaders. It was a pointed parable—one that directly addressed the heart of God’s kingdom purposes (Matthew 22.1-14). Along with His previous parable of the wheat and tares, this reveals a profound truth: God’s kingdom embodies radical grace, presents a mixed reality, and guarantees certain judgment.

The King’s Heart Revealed

A king is preparing a wedding feast for his son. This occasion is not just a social gathering; it reflects the deepest desire of God’s heart. He longs to celebrate His Son in the company of joyful guests. The king has prepared the feast and sent the invitations. Everything is ready.

Observe that those the king invited initially decline—these were individuals who should have felt honored to attend—but instead, they make excuses and turn away. Even worse, they mistreat the king’s messengers. This behavior is a clear reflection of what Israel’s leaders did to the prophets, and what they were about to do to God’s own Son.

Their rejection, however, does not thwart God’s purpose; it reveals it. When those who considered themselves worthy prove unworthy, the king sends his servants with new instructions: “Go to the highways and invite anyone you find.”

This overture is the Gospel in its essence. God’s grace extends beyond all human boundaries. The invitation that began with the covenant people reaches out to everyone—Gentiles, outcasts, and anyone willing to accept it. Paul captured this idea perfectly when he said, “to the Jew first, and also to the Greek” (Romans 1.16).

The Uncomfortable Truth

The story takes an unsettling turn when the servants gather “both bad and good”—not just the obviously righteous, but everyone willing to accept the invitation. The wedding hall fills with a diverse crowd, and Jesus wants us to understand that this is precisely how God’s kingdom appears in the present age.

Consider the parable of the wheat and the tares (Matthew 13.24-30). In this story, good grain and weeds grow together in the same field, often appearing almost identical until it is time for the harvest. The householder instructs his servants not to separate the two too early, understanding that acting too soon could harm the wheat along with the weeds.

In the church, both genuine believers and false professors sit in the same pews, sing the same songs, and bear the same name, “Christian.” From our perspective, they are often indistinguishable from one another. Only God knows the heart.

This truth should deeply humble us. While we can’t see the heart as God does, Jesus taught us that “by their fruits you will know them” (Matthew 7.20). We can and should discern spiritual fruit—such as love, repentance, and growth in holiness. However, this discernment is vastly different from making a final judgment. We can recognize patterns of spiritual life or spiritual deadness, but we cannot declare anyone’s eternal destiny. Our responsibility is to remain faithful ourselves while exercising wise and loving discernment regarding the fruit we observe in others.

The Essential Garment

The king is shocked when he inspects his guests and discovers that one man is not wearing a wedding garment. In that culture, it was common for hosts to provide appropriate attire for their guests. Refusing to wear it was considered an insult, as it signified a rejection of the king’s grace. The king is shocked when he inspects his guests and discovers that one man is not wearing a wedding garment. In that culture, it was common for hosts to provide appropriate attire for their guests. Refusing to wear it was considered an insult, as it signified a rejection of the king’s grace.

The man stands speechless. What could he possibly say? The invitation was sincere, the host provided the garments, and the feast was ready. His exclusion came not from the king’s lack of generosity but from his own refusal to embrace grace.

This fact is at the heart of the Gospel. Gaining entry into God’s kingdom involves more than just accepting an invitation; it requires embracing God’s means of achieving righteousness. We cannot enter based on our own merits, trying to present our achievements as if they were fine garments. Isaiah reminds us that our righteousness is like filthy rags in God’s sight.

The wedding garment symbolizes the righteousness of Christ himself. Paul teaches that we must be “clothed with Christ” (Galatians 3.27). This concept isn’t about moral improvement or religious performance—it’s about letting go of our own efforts and receiving what only God can provide.

Grace for the Unworthy

What stands out to me most about these parables is that none of the guests genuinely deserve their spot at the feast. The first guests demonstrate their unworthiness by rejecting the invitation. The guests brought in from the highways aren’t worthy by any merit-based criteria. Even those who wear appropriate attire at the feast arrive solely by grace.

This reality reflects the parable of the vineyard workers (Matthew 20.1-16). Neither the early workers nor the late ones “earned” their whole day’s wage; it was the landowner’s generous decision. The same principle applies in God’s kingdom. We are all travelers on the road, gathered by grace, clothed by grace, and sustained by grace.

This truth should humble our pride and inspire our worship. If you’re at the feast, it’s because God wanted you there, not because you earned it. When you wear Christ’s righteousness, it is because He provided what you could never achieve on your own.

Living with the Mystery

I understand that the mixed nature of the church can be discouraging. You may observe hypocrisy among those who claim to follow Christ. You witness divisions, scandals, and failures within the visible church. At times, you might wonder if the entire institution is compromised.

Take heart—Jesus anticipated this very situation. The wheat and the tares will grow together until the harvest. The wedding hall will include both genuine and counterfeit guests until the King’s final inspection. This fact is not a flaw in God’s plan; it is part of His wisdom.

Our mission is not to rid the church of every false believer—that is God’s responsibility during the final judgment. Instead, our mission is to examine our own hearts to ensure that Christ’s wedding garment of righteousness clothes us. Additionally, the King compels us to extend His invitation to others who are traversing the roads of this world.

We should encourage one another to be faithful and lovingly confront sin when we notice it. However, we must remember that ultimate judgment belongs solely to God. He will separate the wheat from the tares at the right time, and His judgment will be perfect.

The Certainty of Joy

Don’t let the presence of tares discourage you from recognizing the truth of the wheat. Don’t allow counterfeit garments to diminish your confidence in the genuine righteousness you have received in Christ. The King knows His own, and the harvest will come. The feast will be glorious.

If you have accepted the invitation and come to the feast dressed in Christ, you can find comfort in this promise: what God has begun in you, He will also complete. The same grace that called you from the highways will support you until that final day when He removes every falsehood, and only the truth remains.

If you find yourself on the highways, unsure whether the invitation includes you, pay attention. The King’s servants are still reaching out to invite you. The message remains the same: “Come, for everything is ready.” The garment of righteousness is still offered freely to anyone willing to accept it.

The feast is genuine. The King is gracious. The invitation remains open.

Come to the wedding.

Serving Two Masters:

The ancient Samaritans believed they could negotiate with God, showing just enough reverence to escape calamity while holding tightly to their beloved idols. They did not understand that the God of Israel stands alone, not as one among many, but as the true God who rightfully demands and deserves our entire devotion.

Brent Pollard

Idolatry and the Call for Undivided Faith

The passage from 2 Kings 17.33 presents a profound reality: “They feared the Lord, yet served their own gods…” (NKJV). This ancient narrative of the people resettled in Samaria following the Assyrian captivity serves as a profound and disquieting reminder of the dangers posed by a divided heart and the subtle syncretism that can infiltrate our worship.

Following the fall of the Northern Kingdom of Israel to the Assyrian Empire in 722 BC, the Assyrians deported most Israelites. They filled Samaria with people from distant lands, including Babylon, Cuthah, and Hamath. These new inhabitants ushered in a diverse tapestry of deities and sacred traditions. When adversity, particularly lion attacks, beset them in their new territory, they ascribed it to their lack of understanding of “the god of the land.” The Assyrians dispatched a priest from Israel to instruct them in the ways of the Lord. Yet, what unfolded was not a genuine transformation of the heart but a calculated amalgamation of beliefs—a superficial acknowledgment of Yahweh that coexisted with their enduring devotion to idols. Their reverence for the Lord stemmed from a dread of punishment rather than from a place of love or genuine repentance. They desired a taste of God’s presence to feel secure, avoiding the profound commitment of total surrender.

The intertwining of genuine worship with pagan customs led to a weakened faith, a spiritual compromise where each nation erected shrines and idols alongside the reverence of Israel’s God. They paid lip service to Yahweh, yet their hearts and deeds clung to their former paths and idols. This blending of beliefs, this endeavor to serve two masters, endured through the ages, forging a spiritual legacy that, even in the time of Jesus, identified the Samaritans as possessing a distorted form of worship.

The peril emphasized in 2 Kings 17.33 transcends the boundaries of ancient history. We, too, encounter the subtle and dangerous allure of a divided heart. Though few in our time may kneel before stone figures, countless individuals unwittingly offer their allegiance to contemporary “deities” that compete for their hearts in a manner that rivals the worship of the Creator. These may reveal themselves as: 

  • The god of material prosperity: pursuing riches and material goods as the highest aspirations rather than viewing them as instruments for serving others.
  • The god of self-determination: elevating personal desires and ambitions above the clear guidance of God’s revealed will.
  • The god of cultural accommodation: compromising the unchanging truth of Scripture to align with society’s ever-changing standards.
  • The god of religious formalism: engaging in external expressions of faith while lacking genuine heart change and obedience to God’s Word.

It is all too easy to offer mere words of devotion to God while allowing other priorities to steer our daily lives and choices, much like the settlers in Samaria did. We may gather for worship and declare our faith, yet still hold tightly to the values of this world in our relationships, ethics, and allocation of time and resources. This “pious worldliness” reflects a contemporary manifestation of revering the Lord while simultaneously bowing to our idols.

With clarity and conviction, the Word of God calls us to pursue an undivided heart and offer our exclusive devotion to Him alone. From the Ten Commandments, “You shall have no other gods before Me” (Exodus 20.3 NASB95), to Jesus’ bold proclamation, “No one can serve two masters… You cannot serve God and mammon” (Matthew 6.24 NKJV), the message resonates profoundly. The Lord calls us to surrender our hearts, souls, and strength (Deuteronomy 6.5; Luke 10.27).

Our Lord Jesus directly addressed this matter, declaring to the Samaritan woman that genuine worshipers will worship the Father “in spirit and truth” (John 4.23-24). This truth transcends mere external rituals or compliance driven by fear; it is a deep reverence that transforms our hearts and guides us toward righteous living. The call made by Joshua echoes throughout history: “Choose for yourselves today whom you will serve…but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord” (Joshua 24.15 NASB95).

To steer clear of the missteps of the Samaritans, we must diligently nurture a faith that is genuine, obedient, and wholly devoted:

  1. Honest Self-Examination: We must continually ask ourselves, “What other ‘gods’ vie for our devotion?” Are there unseen idols—whether our careers, comforts, relationships or even our own opinions—that overshadow God’s supremacy?
  2. Immerse yourself in Scripture: Engaging deeply and consistently with the Word of God illuminates His expectations and safeguards against the encroachment of worldly influences into our faith.
  3. Consistent Obedience: Genuine worship is revealed not merely in our Sunday gatherings but in our daily expressions of faithfulness and submission to the will of our Heavenly Father. James instructs us to be “doers of the word, and not hearers only” (James 1.22 NKJV).
  4. Reject Man-Made Substitutes: We must anchor our faith in the truth of God’s revealed Word rather than relying on human traditions or our perceptions of what is right.

The ancient Samaritans believed they could negotiate with God, showing just enough reverence to escape calamity while holding tightly to their beloved idols. They did not understand that the God of Israel stands alone, not as one among many, but as the true God who rightfully demands and deserves our entire devotion. Let us embrace this significant truth, reflecting on our lives and committing each day to serve the Lord with sincerity and authenticity. He alone deserves our complete and unwavering devotion.

Is God Listening?

When we look at this psalm, attributed to David, we see a mixture of needs and desires.  He acknowledges his dependency, but he also affirms his devotion. When we’ve been recipients of such generosity, how can we keep from praising and serving Him?

Neal Pollard

Psalm 61 is a song with musical instructions, according to its title. I can think of at least two songs whose lyrics seem drawn from thoughts and phrases in this brief psalm. There’s a Gaither song, “Lead Me To The Rock That Is Higher Than I,” and brother Tillit S. Teddlie’s, “Hear Me When I Call” (1962). Thoughts in both songs seem related to the first three verses here.

When we look at this psalm, attributed to David, we see a mixture of needs and desires.  He acknowledges his dependency, but he also affirms his devotion. It is interesting to note David’s reference to God’s hearing: “Hear my cry” (1), “Give heed” (1), “I call” (2), “You have heard” (5), and “I will sing praise to Your name” (8). This is a beautiful image of God caring and listening as we speak to Him. How often do you visualize the personal nature of that?

As we break down this psalm, we can see at least three actions from the writer. These should mirror our response to God for all He is and has done for us.

AN APPEAL (1-2,4,7b)

David pleads with God to hear his cry and prayer. He feels isolated and detached, low and faint. He longs for safety and refuge. He wants God’s lovingkindness and truth to preserve him.  In short, he acknowledges his needs and God’s ability to supply them. We are in a dangerous place, spiritually, when we fail to see our need of God. It will keep us from appealing to Him and relying on Him. We are never independent, whether we know it or not! 

AN APPRECIATION (3,5-7a)

He credits God, acknowledging His generosity. He appreciates God’s refuge, inheritance, preservation, and fellowship. Kathy often says, “Gratitude is the key to contentment.” How true! It can also play a vital role in our faithfulness. When we understand that “Every good thing given and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shifting shadow” (Jas. 1:17), it can revolutionize our relationship with God. 

AN ASPIRATION (8)

Responding to God’s gifts is so important to Him. What shows gratitude to God better than a transformed life. David wants to worship (8) and pay vows (5,8). The writer makes the point that it’s worse to be separated from God’s house than to be far from home. Having been given so much, he wants to reciprocate. As Jesus says later, “From everyone who has been given much, much will be required” (Luke 12:48).

Make no mistake about it! God is to be worshipped because He is God, not for the blessings and gifts He gives. But, when we’ve been recipients of such generosity, how can we keep from praising and serving Him?

Additional notes:

–Some believe this psalm to be written by a king, others by a priest, or by an exile. The longing to reconnect is reflected by any of these. 

–Compare this psalm to Psalm 21. Look for similarities.

–There are some compelling reasons to reinforce the idea that this is a psalm of David, like “the tent” (4), an expression that would make little sense after the temple is built, and the discussion of the inheritance in verses 5-7 that sounds a lot like 2 Samuel 7. 

Angels In The Old And New Testaments

Angels are so often misrepresented and misunderstood. A lot of our “theology” about them come from religious error and even Hollywood (wings? women? children?). What does the Bible teach us about them?

Dale Pollard

Old Testament Role

In the Old Testament, angels serve, for the most part, as divine messengers and “secret agents” of God’s will. They appear in human-like or supernatural forms to deliver God’s messages, guide, protect, or even execute His judgment.

Here are some examples: 

1. Messengers: Angels communicate God’s instructions, such as the announcement to Abraham and Sarah of Isaac’s birth (Genesis 18:1-15) or God’s commands to Moses (Exodus 3).

2. Protectors & Guides: Angels protect individuals or Israel, like the angel guiding the Israelites during the Exodus (Exodus 14:19) or protecting Daniel in the lions’ den (Daniel 6:22).

3. Agents of Judgment: Angels carry out divine punishment, such as destroying Sodom and Gomorrah (Genesis 19) or striking down the Assyrian army (2 Kings 19:35).

4. Worship & Service: Angels are depicted as part of God’s heavenly court, praising Him (Isaiah 6:2-3) and serving His purposes (Psalm 103:20-21).

The various types of angels include cherubim (guardians, Genesis 3:24) and seraphim (worshippers, Isaiah 6). Angels are subordinate to God, and their appearances are often horrifying as those they visit are often terrified (Judges 13:21). 

New Testament Role

We find that angels continue as God’s messengers and servants but are now closely tied to the life of Jesus and His church. Here are some examples of their role in the New Testament: 

1. Announcers of Christ: Angels herald Jesus’ birth (Luke 1:26-38, Gabriel to Mary; Luke 2:8-14, to shepherds) and resurrection (Matthew 28:2-7).

2. Ministers to Jesus: Angels support Jesus, such as after His temptation (Matthew 4:11) or in Gethsemane (Luke 22:43).

3. Guides & Protectors: Angels assist believers, like freeing Peter from prison (Acts 12:7-11) or guiding Cornelius to Peter (Acts 10:3-7).

4. Angels of Judgment: Angels are prominent in Revelation, executing God’s judgments (Revelation 8-9), gathering the elect (Matthew 24:31), and fighting demonic forces (Revelation 12:7-9).

5. Worshippers: Angels praise God and Christ (Revelation 5:11-12) and are part of the heavenly host.

Angels are clearly seen as subordinate to Christ (Hebrews 1:4-14). They inspire awe but— not to be worshipped (Colossians 2:18).

Origen’s “On First Principles” (Book 1, Number 4)

Gary continues to put the words of the Early Church Fathers in words we can understand. Those men lived near the time of the New Testament and apostles and give us insight into how Christians thought and believed in ancient times.

Gary Pollard

[Editor’s Note: Gary is translating the Ante-Nicene Fathers works, beginning with Origin’s work. It is meant to update the British English of Roberts and Donaldson. What follows is part of that translation]

Now we should look at this issue from the standpoint of language — specifically the language used in the Message itself. It says that “God is a spirit” and we should now prove our beliefs on this statement. The relevant questions: When did Jesus say this? Who was he talking to? What was he talking about? The answers are easy to find. He was talking to the Samaritan woman. She thought that God could only be properly worshipped on Mt. Gerazim (this was what all Samaritans believed). This was her context when Jesus spoke those words. The Samaritan woman saw that Jesus was Jewish and asked him if she was supposed to worship in Jerusalem instead (which is what all Jews believed). Her exact words were, “All of our ancestors worshipped on this mountain, but you say that we’re only supposed to worship in Jerusalem.” The Samaritan woman believed that it was possible to worship God more or less correctly depending on location. As in, the Jews thought they were “more correct” by worshipping in Jerusalem and the Samaritans felt the same way about their worship on Gerazim. Because this was her understanding of worship, Jesus replied with, “Believe me, the time is coming when you won’t have to be in Jerusalem or on this mountain to worship. God is spirit, so the people who worship him have to do it in spirit and truth.” Look at how logical his answer was! He made the connection between “spirit” and “truth”: He called God a “spirit” to distinguish him from something confined to a body or form. He also called him “truth” to distinguish him from an inadequate shadow or pattern.

Worthy of Praise!

Have you ever made a list of why God is worthy to be praised? David did, in Psalm 111. Take a moment and explore his inspired, itemized list…

Neal Pollard

WORTHY OF PRAISE (PSALM 111)

Neal Pollard

One of those names that remind me of my childhood love of singing is Tillit S. Teddlie, a prolific songwriter and member of the church of Christ who lived to be 102. His songs have a trademark sound, and we have sung so many of them: “Heaven Holds All To Me,” “When We Meet In Sweet Communion,” “Oft We Come Together,” “Singing Redemption’s Song,” “Hear Me When I Call,” “Don’t Wait Too Long,” and “Into Our Hands.” He wrote about soul-winning and personal devotion, but he also devoted a lot of his hymns to worship. I love his song, “Worthy Art Thou.” 

It is said that Teddlie wrote this hymn in 1930, sitting on his front porch on a Sunday morning. He was studying a commentary, Johnson’s Notes, looking for something to put into his sermon. His Bible was open to Revelation, where the elders are before the throne and singing, “Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honour, and glory, and blessing” (Rev. 5:11)(biographical info via hymnstudies.blog). Teddlie could as easily have been studying Psalm 111. While the phrase, “worthy of praise,” is not found in the psalm, the psalmist calls for praise and then sets out to show why. 

HIS WORKS ARE WORTHY OF PRAISE

The psalm’s writer mentions God’s “work” and “works” four times in this brief psalm. They are “great” and “studied” by those who delight in Him (2). They are splendid and majestic (3). They are “powerful” (6). “The works of His hands are truth and justice” (7). The God who created everything did not step back and cease His activity among men after the creation. The God who calls for our works of obedience sets the example by continuing to work in the affairs of mankind. Whether His natural laws set in motion at the creation, His providential care, His answer to prayer, or His redemption, He is at work! For this, He deserves our praise. 

HIS WONDERS ARE WORTHY OF PRAISE

“He has made His wonders to be remembered” (4). These are unusual things beyond human capabilities. It means “to be wonderful” or “to cause a wonderful thing to happen” (TWOT 723). While the psalmist doesn’t mention specifically what these wonders are or give examples, any of the attributes and actions would qualify. The psalmist mentions who He is and what He has done. If we think deeply about those, we are left to dwell on how incredible and awesome our God is!

HIS WORD IS WORTHY OF PRAISE

The psalmist does not confine his praise to God’s nature and activity. There are His precepts (7), His commandments (10), and His covenant (5,9). God’s greatness is found in what He has revealed to us and what that revelation does for us in this life and for the life to come. My maker has seen to it we have the owner’s manual, to help us know how to best live. I am blessed by His truth (7,8). 

HIS WISDOM IS WORTHY OF PRAISE

While I must obtain wisdom myself, it is truly a “wisdom from above” (Jas. 3:17). I get wisdom through the fear of the Lord (10). This good understanding, brought about by His Word (see above), helps me avoid the folly of the unbeliever and the heartache of the rebellious. 

When I assemble with the saints to worship, I need to have a proper frame of mind. That occurs by intentional preparation beforehand. It helps me to meditate on who God is and what I am about to do in worship. This can help me focus and bring a better offering. There is no shortage of matters to consider. This psalm shows me just a few of the reasons why the object of my worship is praiseworthy! 

Fan The Flame

Carl Pollard

A few months ago, we were at Walmart, and they had their charcoal grills on sale. I jumped on the opportunity and immediately put it to work when we got home. Salmon, burgers, more salmon and burgers – something about a charcoal grill just makes the meat taste so good. If you’ve ever used a charcoal grill, you’ll know that there’s a good bit of prep time involved. You pile up your charcoal, soak it in lighter fluid, light it, and wait a good 20 minutes. Once the flame is gone and the coals are gray, it’s time to cook.

One evening a few weeks ago, I decided to use the grill. It was pretty cold out, but when you get the craving, you don’t care how cold it is, you light up the grill. I did everything as I normally would and started cooking once the coals were gray. Except this time, they quit cooking after only a few minutes. Turns out, in cold weather, charcoal doesn’t last as long. So, what do you do? With half-cooked salmon, you don’t want to start the process all over and wait another 20 minutes. I, of course, did the wrong thing and just sprayed a bunch of lighter fluid and burned everything to a crisp.

Little did I know, that event is a perfect illustration for what Paul says in verse 6: “For this reason, I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands.” Timothy’s charcoal was going out, and what happens when your faith grows cold? You lose the impact you have on others, you lose the joy of salvation. Paul says, “I want you to fan the flame.” True faith, like a roaring fire, can be felt and seen. The words used for “fan the flame” mean to rekindle, revive, to begin again.

To keep the flame alive, we need to:

1. Stay strong in our walk with God. When our time spent with God is pushed to the back burner, that is when our faith grows cold. Fellowship with God is our connection to the source of the fire.

2. Stay strong in our walk with the family of God. When time spent in fellowship is neglected, we fail to help fan each other’s flame.

3. Stay strong in worship. Worship should be intimate and personal, a reflection of our love for God.

4. Stay strong in study. It is impossible to stay on fire for God and not spend time in the word of God. Like Jeremiah, God’s word is the very fire in our bones, and if you want to keep that fire burning, study the word.

When fear threatens to ruin your faith, rekindle the flame.

Kneeling Before The King

What do you love most about worship? David gives us so much to consider as we come before the Great I Am.

Neal Pollard

Psalm 95 is one of seven “enthronement” psalms, meaning it “celebrates the sovereignty of Yahweh over the whole earth” (Bratcher and Rayburn, np). In other words, God is King of kings. It is written by King David, a fact not deduced from the psalm itself bearing his “signature” but instead from the Holy Spirit telling us so in Hebrews 4:7.  

This is a psalm you may recognize, especially the second half of the psalm. David shifts from the privilege of the present to the prospect of repeating the peril of the past. The Bible so often charts a course for our future by pointing to the mistakes of history. Is there a more oft-repeated example of how not to live than the generation which wandered in the wilderness?

When you break down the contents of the psalm, it appears to have three major themes:

THE WORSHIP (1-2,6)

There are acts of worship–singing and shouting (1), worshipping, bowing down and kneeling (6)

There is a call to worship–David says “let us” six times (1-2,6). We should encourage one another day after day (Heb. 3:13; 10:24-25) to engage in worship.  How often do we do that? Not harassment or a guilt-trip, but a loving appeal to those who seem to be slipping in their faith to the point that they’ve stopped coming to the assemblies. God’s people need to come together to worship, and if some are struggling in this God wants us reaching out to them. 

There is an Object to worship–worship is intentional, meaning that we must direct it with our hearts, minds, and bodies. Worship is “to the Lord” (1), the rock of our salvation (1), a great God and king (3), the Lord our Maker (6), and our God (7). 

THE WONDER (3-5,7a)

Before worship this Sunday, spend a few moments contemplating just Who it is that you are approaching in your worship–His nature, character, attributes, and blessings. David does that within his exhortation and call to worship.

He is above all (3). He is in control of it all (4). He made it all (5-6). He leads us all (7a). With enthusiasm, we should exclaim, “Our God is an awesome God, He reigns in heaven above with wisdom, power, and love, our God is an awesome God!”

THE WARNING (7b-11)

There are three major warnings here:

There is a warning against delay (7–“Today”). When we are falling away, we may tell ourselves, “I’m not gone for good. I’ll get right…later.” We must remember that, “Tomorrow never comes” (2 Cor. 6:2). 

There is a warning against desensitization (8–“Do not harden your hearts”). None of us is beyond this happening. Keeping our hearts soft to God’s will and word is essential to staying faithful to Him. Sin hardens our hearts, and that is deadly!

There is a warning against dimness (10).  The root of Israel’s rejection was that they erred in the hearts and did not know His ways. Find someone who has wandered away in life, and you will find that they wandered away from His Word. 

Should we worship God from hearts of delight or hands of duty? Yes! Worship should be an utter joy, but let us keep in mind that it is done on His terms and in His way. It is an obligation, one which blesses us and fills our heart with delight. It is a “corporate” activity (Let US). It is a safeguard against falling away. Sunday’s coming! “Oh come, let us bow down!”

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

The Fast God Chooses (58:1-14)

Neal Pollard

It is possible to worship God according to His Word and God still reject it and even be repulsed by it. Such is the situation in Isaiah 58. The chapter begins with God charging Isaiah with the mission of crying out to the people, “declare to My people their transgression And to the house of Jacob their sins” (1). The sins have to do with their worship, but it was not that they were engaged in idolatry or violating the law of Moses concerning the acts. They plead their case that they sought Him, delighted in His ways, ask for just decisions, and delight in His nearness (2). They actually contend with God, wanting to know why He wasn’t seeing their fasting or noticing their humbling (3a). Somehow, they had numbed their consciences and have fooled themselves into thinking God watched their worship but ignored their lifestyles. Why was God so displeased with their fasts and their worship?

Their mistreatment of each other (3-5). From the very beginning (Gen. 4:6-8), God ties acceptable worship to loving and properly treating our brethren (see 1 John 3:12). On the very day of their fast, they sought their own desire, drove their workers hard, and fought and even resorted to violence with one another. They were not humbling themselves or showing remorse for sin when they fasted (5). They were blind to their inconsistency. How clearly God ties the two together! Through John, He also says, “If someone says, “I love God,” and hates his brother, he is a liar; for the one who does not love his brother whom he has seen, cannot love God whom he has not seen. And this commandment we have from Him, that the one who loves God should love his brother also” (1 John 4:20-21). 

Their neglect of their daily duty (6-7). God tells them the fast He chooses, endorses, and accepts. It is one that leads to repudiating their wickedness (6) by a drive to stop oppressing their brethren (6), be benevolent and practice true religion with the less fortunate (7), and not avoid those in need (7). To hold up a pleading hand to God while slapping away a pleading hand of a brother is the height of hypocrisy. James says, “Pure and undefiled religion in the sight of our God and Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself unstained by the world” (1:27). 

Their disconnect between heart and action (8-12). God holds forth the promise of what could be if! By reigniting their heart and true devotion to God, they would find His positive response to their worship and their affliction of soul. He promises to bless and guide them if they would do the right thing driven by the right reasons. God wanted to rebuild for them and satisfy them, but He wanted them to “want” to do right driven by right motives. 

Their failure to truly put God above themselves in worship (13-14). They were more concerned in the beginning of the chapter about why their fasting did not benefit them rather than how God felt about it. The prophet exhorts them to be solely motivated His pleasure (13) and truly taking delight in Him (14). Then, and only then, would He pour out His blessings on them. Desisting from our own ways (13) is so difficult, but it is imperative to unlocking heaven’s genuine delight. 

Isn’t it interesting that Jesus would comment of vain worship during His ministry, citing the book of Isaiah? In Matthew 15:8-9, He says, “You hypocrites, rightly did Isaiah prophesy of you: ‘This people honors Me with their lips, But their heart is far away from Me. ‘But in vain do they worship Me, Teaching as doctrines the precepts of men.” This is quoting from Isaiah 29, and it discusses a different issue. But the principle is the same. Worship and lifestyle are inseparably joined. Our lips and mouths must be attuned to hearts driven to do the right things for the right reasons. 

Favor To A Faithless People

Neal Pollard

The writer of 2 Kings is constantly diverting his attention from Israel to Judah and vice versa. So, he introduces us to Azariah, also known as Uzziah, anointed king over Judah at age 16. We will read much more about him in 2 Kings 15, but he seems to be referenced here only to give us the chronology for when Jeroboam II is anointed king of Israel. It is in the 16th year of Uzziah’s reign that Jeroboam comes to the throne. This will be the next-to-last generation in the dynasty of Jehu, but his son, Zechariah (2 Ki. 14:29), will be murdered after six months. When he ascends to the throne, Israel only has about 70 years left before they are destroyed by the vicious Assyrians. God has been patient with Israel for almost 150 years, as king after king behaves just as Jeroboam will behave: “He did evil in the sight of the Lord; he did not depart from all the sins of Jeroboam the son of Nebat, which he made Israel sin” (2 Ki. 14:24). 

He will reign 41 years over Israel, an evil king over a wicked and disobedient people. But, these are God’s people, Abraham’s descendants and once part of the United Kingdom. If we do the impossible and try to put ourselves in God’s place, can we imagine giving to and doing for a people who are continually unappreciative, rebellious, and unfaithful? How long could we go before we ran out of patience? How many times could we be betrayed and hated by the recipients of our generosity before we gave up on them? Or, having God’s power, how long before we destroyed them all? God will go over 200 years, restraining Himself as His people served other gods and gratified their flesh. 

Isn’t it amazing how much grace and kindness God shows to this faithless people? The Jonah who God graciously sends to the Assyrians to preach repentance (Jonah 1:1) is also sent to Israel (2 Ki. 14:25). Despite Jonah’s flaws, his ministry seemed to be to extend God’s grace to an unrighteous people. Then, read what the author says about God and Israel next. “For the Lord saw the affliction of Israel, which was very bitter; for there was neither bond nor free, nor was there any helper for Israel. The Lord did not say that He would blot out the name of Israel from under heaven, but He saved them by the hand of Jeroboam the son of Joash” (2 Ki. 14:26-27). You want insight into the heart of God, as He deals with our sins? He cares when His people suffer. He views us with compassion, sympathy, and concern. He doesn’t want to reject us or let us go. God sent His prophet Hosea to this very people and speaks His mind on this subject: ” How can I give you up, O Ephraim? How can I surrender you, O Israel? How can I make you like Admah? How can I treat you like Zeboiim? My heart is turned over within Me, All My compassions are kindled. I will not execute My fierce anger; I will not destroy Ephraim again. For I am God and not man, the Holy One in your midst, And I will not come in wrath” (Hosea 11:8-9). 

No one will be able to legitimately say at the Judgment, “God, you were harsh, hasty, and hateful!” No, even in the face of faithlessness, God shows His matchless grace! His patience can be exhausted and His justice will not allow impenitence to go unpunished (read Exodus 34:7). But let no one accuse God of reckless wrath! He is the God of unending love. May this lead us to repentance (Rom. 2:4) and faithfulness (Rev. 2:10)! 

Abel

Neal Pollard

Abel is the first true victim in the Bible, if not the first hero. In fact, he is the first character about whom there is only good spoken of in the Genesis record. Abel comes onto the scene offering God acceptable worship and he leaves a martyr for righteous conduct. But, writers as late as John and the Hebrews’ author look back on his life near the beginning of time and make distinct, New Testament points. He is a vital biblical character we can learn at least three important things from.

We see the importance of Abel’s offering (Gen. 4:4). It was his “firstlings.” The Lord had respect for His offering. John would write, “This is the message you have heard from the beginning: We should love one another. We must not be like Cain, who belonged to the evil one and killed his brother. And why did he kill him? Because Cain had been doing what was evil, and his brother had been doing what was righteous” (1 Jn. 3:11-12). Abel worshipped God the way God wanted to be worshipped, and how does He want to be worshipped? Jesus plainly answers that. “God is spirit, and they that worship Him must worship Him in spirit and in truth” (John 4:24).

We see the importance of Abel’s blood (Heb. 12:24). Blood sacrifice has been a vital part of man’s spiritual relationship with God since the dawn of time. Blood is vital to life. Giving of blood is the greatest expression of sacrifice. Abel died as the result of innocence and righteousness. That blood even “cried out to God” after Abel’s murder (Gen. 4:10-11). Yet, Abel, as righteous as he was, was a sinner. Add to that, his blood saves no one from sin. As important as his shedding of blood is to the unfolding of history, Jesus’ blood is superior (Heb. 12:24). He was perfectly innocent, and His death was an offering of the just for the unjust (1 Pet. 3:18). His sacrifice is also the way man is saved from his sins (Eph. 1:7).

We see the importance of Abel’s faith (Heb. 11:4). Among the mighty in faith throughout the ages, Abel’s name is prominently etched. Of him we read, “It was by faith that Abel brought a more acceptable offering to God than Cain did. Abel’s offering gave evidence that he was a righteous man, and God showed his approval of his gifts. Although Abel is long dead, he still speaks to us by his example of faith.” Here, we see what Abel’s faith was: (1) active, (2) saving, (3) notable, and (4) influential. First, his faith acted. He offered a sacrifice. Next, his faith was productive. God counted him righteous as the result of his faith. He didn’t earn that recognition, but God granted it as the result of his faith. Then, his faith is noteworthy. It was such faith that God testified of Abel’s sacrifice, the product of his faith. Finally, his faith is influential, as it is still upheld, now nearly 6,000 years later, as an example for us to follow. Though he is dead, his faith is still living and leading people today. Today, we can learn from and imitate the type faith Abel had.

What a hero for the ages! Such adjectives as faithful righteous, innocent, and better describe him and what he did. Let us learn from and imitate this patriarchal giant, that we can continue to shine as a beacon of faith, sacrifice, and obedience even after we depart this life!

The Worship Was Delayed And Nobody Cared!

Neal Pollard

I have never been a part of a service like last night. C.J. and Walter Moore met to study the Bible an hour before evening worship. At the end of the study, they knew they needed to obey the gospel. They did not want to wait. Their mom, Shannon Anthony, had also been studying and was ready to be baptized. This sweet family was ready, together, to be united with Christ. So, we asked each to make the confession of their faith, and then each was baptized. It is our custom to have a welcome circle afterward, and we did just that. Hiram shared beautiful, encouraging thoughts, then David Pahman, on behalf of our shepherds, prayed for these precious souls! Finally, around 6:40, we had our announcements. The actual worship service was much abbreviated, punctuated by Harry Potter’s beautiful, heartfelt prayer. But, I believe everyone left the assemblies last night with greater faith, hope, and determination to live the Christian life.

The church faces challenges. Her leaders have to do (and lead us to do) hard things. We live in a world that seems to steadily move further away from God. Our own lives are filled with difficulties. But, moments like last night are spiritual vitamins and nutrients that more than keep us going. They motivate us to do more for His cause! I doubt that anyone present last night will soon forget the time the worship was delayed while the church family enjoyed three additions! In fact, we’d love to see it happen every week!

Here it is, for anyone who’d like to watch

Succeed In Everything

2 CHRONICLES 31

Dale Pollard

Hezekiah “prospered in everything” (2 Chron. 31.21) because…

HEZEKIAH WAS DETERMINED TO PUT GOD BACK WHERE HE BELONGED (v.2)

”Hezekiah assigned the priests and Levites to divisions—each of them according to their duties as priests or Levites—to offer burnt offerings and fellowship offerings, to minister, to give thanks and to sing praises at the gates of the LORD’s dwelling.”

HE DEDICATED HIMSELF TO SERVICE (v.3)

“The king contributed from his own possessions for the morning and evening burnt offerings and for the burnt offerings on the Sabbaths, at the New Moons and at the appointed festivals as written in the Law of the LORD.”

HE DEVELOPED HIMSELF AND OTHERS (v.4)

“He ordered the people living in Jerusalem to give the portion due the priests and Levites so they could devote themselves to the Law of the LORD.”

HIS DEVOTION WAS DESIRED BY OTHERS v.5-6) 

Israel gave generously until there were heaps of their offerings piled up. 

HE DIRECTED ALL THE GLORY TOWARD GOD (v.8) 

When Hezekiah and his officials came and saw the heaps, they praised the LORD and blessed his people Israel.

He Wasn’t Perfect But… 

What’s written about him in the summation of his life declares that Hezekiah was the last time Israel, or the world, would know a righteous king until Jesus appeared on earth (Matt. 1.10ff). 

“Hezekiah trusted in the LORD, the God of Israel. There was no one like him among all the kings of Judah, either before him or after him. He held fast to the LORD and did not stop following him; he kept the commands the LORD had given Moses” (2 Kgs 18.5-6). 

Thirsting for God

Brent Pollard

In Judah’s dry and barren wilderness, David composes one of the Bible’s most stirring and heartfelt expressions of spiritual yearning. Psalm 63 is a profound meditation of the soul’s thirst for the living God. David’s use of vivid imagery and passionate language in Psalm 63 exemplifies all who seek to draw closer to the Lord, showcasing the depths of his longing.

The psalm opens with David’s earnest cry: “O God, You are my God; I shall seek You earnestly; My soul thirsts for You, my flesh yearns for You, In a dry and weary land without water.” (Psalm 63.1 NASB). David’s intense yearning for God’s presence mirrors the desperation of physical thirst in a desert.

This longing echoes the Israelites’ experience wandering in the wilderness when they complained to Moses, “Why, now, have you brought us up from Egypt, to kill us and our children and our livestock with thirst?” (Exodus 17:3). 

David finds relief for his parched soul in the oasis of God’s power and glory, contrasting it with the dry and weary landscape of the Israelites. He repeatedly mentions God’s name (“O God…my God”), demonstrating his unshakeable recognition and relationship with the Almighty. His thirst is quenched by witnessing God’s manifest attributes in the holy place.

In Exodus 33.18, Moses expressed his desire to see God’s glory, which foreshadowed the coming of Jesus Christ, the radiance of God’s glory, as mentioned in Hebrews 1.3. Jesus promised in John 4.10 that whoever drinks the water He gives them will never thirst again, as stated in John 4:14.

David continues: “Because Your lovingkindness is better than life, My lips will praise You.” (Psalm 63:3). The psalmist praises God’s covenant love, superior to physical life. We love, because He loved us first. (1 John 4:19)

With hands raised in joyful blessing (Psalm 63.4), David declares: “My soul is satisfied as with marrow and fatness” (Psalm 63.5). Unlike his ancestors, who had physical abundance but spiritual emptiness, David had tasted and seen that the Lord is good (Psalm 34.8). He feasted on the Bread of Life (John 6.35) and had his deepest hunger divinely fulfilled.

Even in the night watches, a time of spiritual dryness for many, David reflects on his Beloved: “When I remember You on my bed, I meditate on You in the night watches” (Psalm 63.6). The darkness holds no fear because “the Lord is my light” (Psalm 27.1), dispelling the gloom and igniting songs of joyful praise (Psalm 63.7).

David models wholehearted devotion by clinging to God as his help and rejoicing in the shadow of the Almighty’s wings (Psalms 63:7-8). His vivid depiction of pursuing hard after God (Psalm 63.8) recalls Jacob’s fervent wrestling with the Divine (Genesis 32.22–32). Both David and Jacob emerge wounded yet holding tightly to their heavenly Companion, the One whose presence alone can quench the longings of the human soul.

Psalm 63 is a timeless expression of spiritual hunger and holy satisfaction found only in God. From the barren landscapes of wilderness wanderings to the urban deserts of modern faith, the words of the psalmist beckon all who thirst to come to the waters (Isaiah 55.1). The path leads to Christ, the fountain of living waters (Jeremiah 2.13; John 7.37-39). Will you drink deeply from His heart of steadfast love?

Navigating the Complexities of Worship

Biblical Examples of Obedience and Error

Brent Pollard

 Comparing the post-exilic Jews criticized in Malachi, David, and Nadab and Abihu provides a holistic picture of the connection between human deeds and divine expectations in worship and obedience. Each scenario represents distinct facets of human engagement with divine decrees and religious rituals.

The Jews who returned from exile did not exert much effort in following God’s decrees during Malachi’s time. God accused them of robbing Him because they withheld their offerings (Malachi 3.8–12). Even when they did bring offerings, they only brought God their leftovers, which God considered disrespectful since it showed a lack of reverence and sincerity toward Him (Malachi 1.6–14). Consequently, their lack of reverence and sincerity undermined their worship and strained their relationship with Him.

It is essential to refrain from viewing worship as a mere duty and instead approach it sincerely, reflecting deeply on God’s holiness and His expectations.

David’s unauthorized census, influenced by Satan during a time of divine displeasure with Israel, exemplifies a grave judgment error by disregarding Exodus’s instructions for conducting censuses (Exodus 30.11–12). Despite his general Joab’s objections, David proceeded, only to recognize his sin swiftly. God presented three punitive options, with David choosing a three-day pestilence. At Araunah’s threshing floor, divine mercy stopped this pestilence. God instructed David to make a sacrifice there to atone for his sin. Araunah offered his livestock, crops, and farming implements as fuel for the sacrifice. However, David insisted on purchasing the necessary items for the sacrifice from Araunah, emphasizing that true sacrifice must come with a personal cost, reflecting his repentance and adherence to divine instructions (2 Samuel 24.24; 1 Chronicles 21.24).

David’s insistence on offering to God only what costs him personally emphasizes the value of sacrifice and personal investment in worship. Similarly, our worship and offerings to God must be meaningful and require personal sacrifice. David’s actions demonstrate the value of sincerity, individual responsibility, and acknowledging God’s worthiness in worship. We should not assume God expects less of us.

In Leviticus 10.1, we read about Nadab and Abihu, who offered a “strange” fire that God had not authorized. Their lack of sober judgment might have made things worse. The story serves as a warning about the significance of following God’s commands regarding worship. The severe punishment given to Nadab and Abihu shows how seriously God takes obedience and the dangers of presumptuous or innovative worship practices.

What comparative insights can we glean from examining these three examples of worship?

David sincerely adheres to divine commands, while Nadab and Abihu and the post-exilic Jews act presumptuously or complacently.

David demonstrates a profound reverence for God and deeply understands His nature. He acknowledges the importance of making meaningful sacrifices. Nadab and Abihu, on the other hand, failed to show reverence or a complete understanding of the sacred nature of God’s specific instructions. The actions of the post-exilic Jews imply a detachment from the importance and meaning of their worship practices.

The narrative of David underscores the crucial value of genuine and heartfelt worship. Nadab and Abihu’s story warns those who disregard God’s commands. Additionally, the account in Malachi calls for reevaluating our approach to worship. It urges us to move away from complacency and towards a more heartfelt and obedient practice. These stories emphasize the consequences of our actions and highlight the valuable lessons we can learn from them.

The central theme derived from these examples underscores the importance of approaching God with sincerity, reverence, and unwavering obedience. Worship transcends mere human actions for personal satisfaction; it is a divine mandate that demands meticulous adherence to God’s commands and a heart devoted to honoring Him. Each of these narratives offers valuable perspectives on the nature of worship, the significance of obedience, and the consequences of diverse attitudes and actions in response to divine directives.  

Painful, But Exhilarating

Neal Pollard

    On a particular occasion, I was listening to a great sermon on worship. It was interesting and, in a very real way, enjoyable.  But it was also forceful and convicting.  The longer he preached, the more the message kept penetrating and pricking my heart.  His sermon consisted of two points, that worship is an intentional meeting with God and, when we come, we must bring an offering.  That may sound somewhat plain, but it was powerful.

   Do not think that my view is that it is not a good sermon if your toes have not been crunched and you have not gone on a guilt trip.  I love feel good sermons on grace and heaven, the same as the next brother or sister.  However, as I listened to him preach that night, I thought of so many sermons by Camp, Clark, McCord, Winkler, Nichols, and others of their ilk.  The rich overflow from a man who has studied, prepared, and honed his ability to present gospel truths reaches into the heart of a hearer.  If we open our hearts during such sermons, we will be convicted by our shortcomings but motivated by the lesson to improve, grow, and increase what is good. 

   As he spoke about the “bucket,” I thought about the fact that more times than I want to admit I have come with an empty or nearly empty bucket.  But hearing him preach about it, I felt resolve to fill it up next time I meet God in worship.  In fact, that was what struck me most about his sermon.  The more I heard, the more I wanted to please, love, and obey my Lord.  It was painful, but exhilarating!

   In our dramatically consumer-centric culture, you and I must break out of such selfishness and humbly approach the Audience of worship and give our everything to please Him.  We need to come with our prayers, praise, thoughts, longings, meditation, money, and the like, urgently desiring to give and give some more to our great God!   That will do more than transform our worship.  It will change our very beings to the core! 

Genesis: These Are The Generations (XIV)

Lot And Abram Separate (13:1-18)

Neal Pollard

If you grew up going to Sunday School, this may be one of the lessons you learned as a child. The kernel I remember is that Abram gave Lot the first choice of land and Lot chose the one that looked better; that would cost him, but God would richly bless Abram. As I recall, the takeaway for us preschoolers was not to be selfish and trust that God will take care of us. Not bad, sister Gober!

But, keeping with the context of the call of Abram, perhaps we can glean even more. Let us examine how they got to this point and what significance it has on the overall objective given to Abram.

First, we see Abram’s prosperity (1-4). As we saw, the Pharaoh unwittingly adds to his resources when he thought he was wooing a potential wife. But with all Abram brought and accumulated, it amounted to him being “very rich in livestock, in silver and in gold” (2). He has left Egypt and returned to Bethel, where he had formerly built an altar (3-4; 12:8). 

Second, we see Abram’s piety (4b). Abram was an altar-builder (12:8; 13:4,18; 22:9). No doubt, he influenced his son, Isaac, who would also become an altar-builder (26:25). Abram repeatedly found it necessary, in arriving at some significant point, to call on the name of the Lord. While his faith is still developing, he understands the uniqueness and power of Jehovah. It drives him to his knees in worship. 

Third, we see Abram’s problem (5-7). Sometimes, we refer to “good problems”–dilemmas that grow out of otherwise positive circumstances. That is what happens on this part of the journey (cf. 36:7). Lot and Abram both had so much flocks, herds, and tents that “the land could not sustain them while dwelling together” (6). There was strife between the men’s herdsmen (7), and perhaps it threatened the peace between them (8). Sometimes, growth and progress create problems that would not exist in periods of decline and difficulty.

Fourth, we see Abram’s proposal (8-13). Choosing unity over plenty, Abram proposes that they separate with all their goods and possessions so that each could sustain and provide for their own (8-9). For him, the overriding concern was, “we are brothers” (8). Abram tells Lot that whichever way he chose, he would then chose the other way (9). Lot looked down on the valley of the Jordan and saw well-watered plains “like the garden of the Lord” (10). Lot took all he had with him and went east to the land of Canaan in the cities of the valley (12). There is foreboding in Moses’ summation of Lot’s destination, first alluding to the coming destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah (10) and the little city of Zoar where Lot and his daughters will flee during that destruction (10). Second, there is the startling statement: “Now the men of Sodom were wicked exceedingly and sinners against the Lord” (13).

Finally, we see Abram’s prospects (14-18). The Lord appears to Abram and tells him to look in every direction. God promises to give all the land he could see to his descendants, offspring that would be as prevalent as the dust of the earth (16). He tells Abram to walk the land and survey it, with the promise, “I will give it to you” (17). Abram takes his household and belongings and camps in Hebron, where he promptly builds a place of worship (18). 

God is blessing this man of faith, who, in turn, is remembering God and following the ways of God in his dealings with others. God rewards His proper prioritizing, and sees fit to use him in furthering His plans and intentions. God uses faithful, selfless people to accomplish His will. May we have a heart of wisdom which approaches life’s decisions, big and small, with the sole motivation of loving God wholeheartedly and loving our neighbors as ourselves. Out of this drive, we will be people God partners with to do great things to His glory!