A Study in Deuteronomy Week 9

Deuteronomy Chapters 27-30


Chapter 27

Verses 1-7 – Here we find the instructions for the building of the altar, the place of sacrifice.

Do we need an altar today? What sacrifices would we offer there? What sacrifices are required of us under the New Covenant? (See Romans 12:1)

Chapter 28

Verses 1-14 – This is the history of Israel written before it happened! God knows the past, the present and the future perfectly. He is able to know those things because He is not in time. He is timeless and eternal (part of the character of God).

In times of obedience, Israel will be blessed.

Verses 15-68 – This is a long list of the things Israel will do in disobedience to God.

In times of disobedience, Israel will be “cursed.”

Chapter 29

Verses 1-29 – This section (extending through Deuteronomy 30:10) is referred to as the “Palestinian Covenant.”

This covenant is not to be confused with “The Old Covenant” made with Abraham at Horeb (although it is essentially similar and basically a review).

Israel had violated the conditions of the Covenant. Here Moses goes back over them so that they might have better knowledge of it and comply with it.

Chapter 30

Verses 1-10 – God’s Character is further revealed here. Although Israel had failed to keep its part of the Old Covenant, God stood ready to offer forgiveness and redemption to them.

If we were able to live up to the conditions of the Old Covenant, we would not have needed Christ to come, die and be resurrected.

Verses 11-20 – God offers a choice between life and death. God always offers a choice. The choice is between life (Christ) and death (rejecting Christ).

God does not send people to Hell. He gives them a choice, and they choose to reject Christ. Therefore, they send themselves to Hell.

Those who choose Christ by trusting in, and only in, His death, burial and resurrection for the remission of sins receive life eternal (John 3:16).

SUNDAY SOUNDS OF PRAISE-'They that Go Down to the Sea in Ships'-Purcell

A Study in Deuteronomy Week 8

Deuteronomy Chapters 22-26

Chapter 22

Verses 1-4 – The term “brother” is used here to indicate any human being, known or unknown, even an enemy. It is about our attitude toward others, much as the Good Samaritan was a picture of our love for our fellow man.

Verses 5-12 – An interesting comparison of humanity with animals. But the prohibition prevented a great inhumanity still occasionally practiced by the poorer sort in Asian countries. An ox and mule, being of different species and of very different characters, cannot associate comfortably, nor unite cheerfully in drawing a plough or a wagon. The mule being much smaller and his step shorter, there would be an unequal and irregular draft. This is similar to Christ’s teaching of not being unequally yoked.

Verses 13-30 – The lesson here is that just because something can be abused does not make it bad. We would not say, for instance, that because the sun’s light might be abused, God, therefore, did not make the sun.

Chapter 23

Verses 1-8 – It was a common practice for parents in the East to mutilate their children to train them for service in houses of the rich and powerful (vs 1-2). It was once upon a time considered uncivil for children to be born out of wedlock or for the father to be unknown (vs 3-6). The Ammonites and Moabites consulted with soothsayers and tried to seduce Israel from their allegiance to God. God is not to be trivialized with.

Verses 9-14 – When men went to war, those left behind were to avoid the excesses of camp life and were to behave circumspectly.

Verses 15-25 – The Israelites were not to force a runaway servant to return to his master. They were also prohibited from charging usurious interest to their countrymen. A vow is a vow…period (vs 24 & 25).

Chapter 24

Verses 1-22 – This whole section is a precursor to the New Covenant attitude toward marriage and divorce. Under the New Covenant, a marriage is to be a picture of the relationship between Christ and His Bride, the Church.

Chapter 25 – What do you suppose is the significance of the 40 stripes in verse 2? Does it strike you as odd that 40 stripes is considered some sort of restriction of the punishment?

Chapter 26 – I would remind you that the purpose of the tithe under the Old Covenant was not some ethereal spirituality, nor was it some rule to allow God to have some money to work with.

The main use of the tithe was to provide the leaders with a livelihood. The tithe was brought to the sanctuary, given to a priest who then used the blood and certain cuts of meat and bushels of grain for sacrifice, retaining the best cuts of meat and the finest grain for his own sustenance.

The New Covenant concept of giving is that one literally gives 100% of one’s income (and everything else) to the Lord. If there is a need in the church, the New Covenant giver sees it as a joyous opportunity to fill the need.

Any Christian who would allow a Jew under the Law to give more than the Christian under grace is a disgrace to grace (Dr. Adrien Rogers).

Giving is a direct reflection of the Christian’s response to the love poured out upon him by Christ’s sacrificial death, burial and resurrection.

COMMON CURRENT HERESIES

I am more and more frustrated by Christian leaders who espouse heresies. Most of those heresies have been taught to them by pseudo-intellectual seminary professors, who, themselves, do not understand or believe the purpose or the meaning of Scriptures. Many of them stem from centuries of man-made tradition (something which is railed against in Colossians 2).

It is important to begin with the purpose and meaning of The Bible.

The Bible is God's revelation of His character, His love for His creation and His plan for its redemption.

Although the Bible is divided into two "testaments," the Old Testament and the New Testament, it is important to realize that what these testaments are about is two covenants God has made with His creation.

The first covenant is the Abrahamic Covenant, a covenant that pre-dated the Law of Moses and the covenant God made with Moses (not to be confused with or superseding the Abrahamic Covenant).

The Second Covenant was His fulfilment of the First Covenant through Jesus, Christ (the Greek word for the Hebrew "Messiah".

Old Covenant Jews get to Heaven the same way New Covenant people do: through faith in Messiah. Old Covenant Jews get to Heaven through faith in the promise of a coming Messiah. New Covenant folk get to Heaven through faith in the same Messiah (Christ) having come to fulfil the Old Covenant.

Every word, phrase, chapter and story of the Bible must be interpreted by asking the question: What does this word, phrase, chapter and story reveal about God's character, His love for His creation and His plan for its redemption.

Failure to interpret any portion of Scripture by answering this question will result in an improper interpretation and application of that section of Scripture.

The pivotal verse in Scripture is John 3:16: "For God loved the world so much that He gave His only begotten (to bring a child into existence by the process of reproduction, in this case, spiritual reproduction through Mary) Son, that anybody who believes in Him (His life, burial and resurrection) will not perish (die eternally), but will have eternal (timeless foreverness with God) life."

Every verse of Scripture must be liberally painted with this verse in order to be properly interpreted.

All of the Old Testament points to this verse.

All of the New Testament (including the gospels) expands on this verse.


Sadly, the majority of "preachers" today use Scripture to prove some theosophical point of theirs or to prove some philosophical position they hold.
 
That is called "proof-texting" and is an anathema to the Christian message.
 
In this series, I will expose many contemporary heresies, not for the purpose of showing off my own knowledge, but in the hope that someone will wake up and realize that we Christians have only one message and that its eternal repetition is not boring or unsophisticated, but that it is the very essence of who, what and why we are.
 
That message is that God's character is perfect and eternal, His love for His creation is unfathonable and His plan for the salvation of His creation is in, and only in, Jesus, Christ.

LEST WE FORGET

SUNDAY SOUNDS OF PRAISE-God of Wonders-Third Day

A Study in Deuteronomy Week 7

Deuteronomy Chapters 18-21


Chapter 18
Verses 1-2 – The tribe of Levi was totally consecrated to the “priestly office.” The priests were to be sustained by tithes, first fruits and other offerings at the altar.

Verses 3-5 – The priest were to receive the choice portions of the offerings: the “two cheeks” and the “maw” or stomach, deemed to be the greatest delicacy. (I Corinthians 9:13)

Verses 6-13 – Levies served in rotation.

Verses 14-22 – A repeat of the requirements of a prophet, that 100% of his prophecies be true. God reminds His people that "There is no need to consult with diviners and soothsayers, as I shall afford you the benefit of divinely appointed prophets.

Chapter 19

Verses 1-13 – The cities of refuge were a place of safety, comfort and forgiveness. They were to be easily accessed and the roads to them were to be kept in top-notch condition.

Verse 14 – Personal property, in the form of land, was of great importance (as it is in our Constitution).

Verses 15-21 – The rules of testimony in court required at least two witnesses. In other words, “he said-she said” was to be avoided. Perjury was punishable under the law and the perjurer received the same punishment as the condemned.

These laws were reflective of the forgiving nature and innate fairness of Christ in saving the condemned.

Chapter 20

Verses 1-18 – When Israel had to go to war, if it was a just war, they had the right to expect God to be with them and to favor them. What about war today?

Verses 19-20 – It is interesting that fruit bearing trees were to be spared in a war. This was in recognition of what was “sacred” in the environment and what was not. Fruit trees supported human life and were thus important. The environment is important, but it is required that we know the difference between that which is truly important and that which is not.

Chapter 21

Verses 1-9 – This deals with how to deal with an unsolved murder. Think “cold case.” Unsolved murders were not to be just let go, but a continuing effort to find the “perp” was made.

Verses 10-14 – There is a translation issue here. In the original and all other translations, the words are rendered "have had," ( V 13) referring to events that have already taken place. In other words, “hers that was hated," not "hers that is hated," evidently intimating that she (the first wife) was dead at the time referred to. Moses, therefore, does not here legislate upon the case of a man who has two wives at the same time, but on that of a man who has married twice in succession, the second wife after the death of the first

God's laws restructure the way a people act, think and live out their lives so they can live in conformity with their Holy God. The many rules and judgments listed here all ultimately point to Christ who is the only way to God. They were meant to lift His people up above all the other nations as they would live in God's holy presence.

Each generation is tested as to whether they will fully revolve their lives around Christ and His teachings. Great blessings follow the obedient, while curses those willing to disregard the words of Christ.

God clearly wants to get involved in our every day living. He wants to shape our decisions.

SUNDAY SOUNDS OF PRAISE-That's My King-S.M. Lockridge

A Study in Deuteronomy Week 6

Deuteronomy Chapters 15-21

Chapter 15

Verses 1-11 – God’s poverty program is about kindness and reasonableness. There was a 7 year limitation on debt. Debts are to be repaid, but after a certain length of time, it is time to let go and forgive debts. After all, what kind of debt did Christ forgive you?

Verses 12-18 – Slaves are not to be in servitude forever. Every soul longs for freedom. The highest form of freedom is slavery to Christ.

Verses 19-23 – No matter how dear the sacrifice, it is never sufficient to forgive sin. The only sacrifice that can forgive sin is the sacrifice of Christ at the cross of Calvary.

Chapter 16 There are three main feasts for the Jews: Passover; Pentecost and the Feast of Tabernacles. All males were required to attend the feasts.

The period from Passover to Pentecost is a time of great anticipation. Each of the days is counted from the second day of Passover to the day before Pentecost (Shavu'ot), 49 days or 7 full weeks, hence the name of the festival.

The counting reminds Jews of the important connection between Passover and Pentecost: Passover freed them physically from bondage, but the giving of the Torah on Pentecost redeemed them spiritually from their bondage to idolatry and immorality.

Pentecost is also known as Pentecost because it falls on the 50th day; however, the Jewish The Jewish Pentecost is not really the same as the Christian holiday of Pentecost, which occurs 50 days after Resurrection Sunday.

The Feast of Tabernacles comes on the fifteenth of Tishri (September-October), the seventh month according to the Jewish calendar. This was the third feast that required a pilgrimage to Jerusalem to worship in the Temple and offer sacrifices and offering to the Lord.

Chapter 17

Verses 1-7 – These are some basic principles about testimonies in court and the importance of due process (something from which our judicial system is spawned).

Verses 8-13 – There was to be a “supreme” court to settle what lower courts could not.

Verses 14-20 – Your leader should not seek power and self-aggrandizement, but should live in a way that is not above the people.

It is so interesting that Deuteronomy emphasizes the heart involvement with following God’s Ten Commandments.

It is also noteworthy that the “sub-laws” regarding civil behavior are also connected to love of God and His love for us.

See, the Bible is God’s revelation of His character, His love for His creation and His plan for its redemption.

SUNDAY SOUNDS OF PRAISE-Jesus Never Fails-Truth

A Study in Deuteronomy Week 5

Deuteronomy Chapters 8-14

Chapter 8

Knowing the history of God’s dealings brings assurance of His grace for the future. Verses 1-9 – Observing the Law out of love for God is a natural response to His love for us in christ.

Verses 10-20 – We are prone to self-satisfaction, self-congratulations and to failing to give God the credit He is due.

Chapter 9

Verses 1-6 – God knew Israel, and their past was not that good. God did not promise them the land of milk and honey because of their righteousness, but because of His.

Verses 7-29 – We have a tendency to allow idol worship to enter our lives.

Chapter 10

God allowed Israel to be enslaved in Egypt, and God brought them out of Egypt.

We all know the story, and it is a story of God’s grace, and how serious it is to ignore Him.

Chapter 11

The Promised Land was not like Egypt. In fact, it was virtually the opposite from Egypt.

Chapter 12

Israel has only one place to worship in the land.

Verses 4-14 – There is to be a place where everybody meets together for worship. It is not acceptable for each one to do as he pleases and to exercise his own ideas and opinions. This is to be a God centered place, not a man centered place.

Chapter 13

This is another warning against false prophets and how to spot them. This chapter reinforces the admonition against idol worship.

Remember, if God says something once it is important, if He says it two or three times, you would do well to pay attention.

Chapter 14

Here we see the diet for Israel and the Old Covenant pattern for giving.

Verses 1-21 – God knew what was good for us long before nutritionists.

Verses 22-29 – The tithe was 10%, by definition. The tithe in this case was grain and was to be eaten by the tither at God’s chosen place of worship.

There were all kinds of rules about the circumstances of tithing.

Aren’t you glad that we who have received Christ live under the New Covenant?

SUNDAY SOUNDS OF PRAISE-Praise You in the Storm-Casting Crowns

A Study in Deuteronomy Week 4

Deuteronomy Chapters 5-7

Deuteronomy 5

Verses 1-5 – The covenant in Horeb (Genesis 17:9). This was God’s promise to Abraham and His people, Israel.

Verses 6-21 – The Ten Commandments are repeated and given commentary.

Question: Which of the Ten Commandments requires Sabbath worship services?

Question: Which of the days of the week should we NOT keep holy?

Question: If you keep Commandment #1, which of the other Commandments are you most likely to violate?

Verses 22-33 – The request of the people that the law might be delivered through Moses.

Deuteronomy 6

Verses 1-3 – Obedience out of Love. Moses taught the people what God told him to teach them. Christ’s ministers are to teach all He has commanded them to teach (Matthew 28:20)

Verses 4-12 – God is God and we are to follow Him. We are also to teach our children to follow Him.

Verses 13-19 – We are to love God with all that we are. We are to love Him with a sincere love, a strong love, a superlative love, an intelligent love and a complete love.

Verses 20-15 – Our obligation is to let our children know our history, the history of our faith and the history of the Israelites.

Deuteronomy 7

Verses 1-10 – We are to be very cautions about who our friends are, who we fellowship with and whether they serve idols or are idolaters. Those who have communion with God are not to have communion with the works of the world’s darkness. Spending time with worldly people is not likely to raise them up to a righteous level, but is more likely to bring us down to a less holy level. As Christ said, we are not to be unequally yoked, a reference not only to marriage, but to all forms of associations.

Verses 11-26 – Proper obedience, that is obedience born of great respect and love for God, brings with it the promises of God to know Him better, to serve Him better and to have His assurance of the best that He has for us.

A DIFFERENT SORT OF SUNDAY SOUNDS OF PRAISE

A Study in Deuteronomy Week 3

Deuteronomy Chapters 1-4 Reconnecting with God's Purpose

Chapter 1

Verses 1-8 – A new generation grew up before Moses, but God's purpose remained the same. Through an elaborate rehearsal of events, good and bad, Moses reconnects that generation with God's unchanging purposes. He tells them the history of where they had come from.

Verses 9-18 – Moses tells them how he got things organized. He appointed leaders over each group. This is an indication that one man, such as a pastor, cannot do all of the work. He needs right hand men (deacons), left hand people to help with educating the people, musicians (the heart of worship) and feet (missionaries, etc.) to help him in his task.

Verses 19-25 – Key verse: 21 “See, the Lord you God has given you the land. Go get it.

Verses 26-46 – Moses reminds them of their grumbling (v-27). He reminds them that they did not trust the Lord (v-32). Then he reminds them that they made a new promise to God to commit to Him (v-41). The leader had done what God wanted, but the people would not follow. Followship is one of our obligations as people of God. Each generation has its opportunity to understand and join God in His greater purposes.

Chapter 2 The history lesson continues. Moses tells about their nomadic way of life.

Verses 1-3 – In these few words Moses comprised the whole of that wandering nomadic life through which they passed during thirty-eight years, shifting from place to place, and regulating their stations by the prospect of pasturage and water.

Verses 4-7 – Israel was fed manna, but they were not prohibited from eating regular food when it was available. But they were not to desire it above reason (or above their appreciation for what God had provided them).

Verses 24-37 – This is about the defeat of Sihon, King of Heshbon. The lesson here is that when God’s plan is followed, success is inevitable.

Chapter 3

Verses 1-31 – Here, Og is defeated, the land is divided and Moses learns that he is not going to be allowed to cross the Jordan. Chapter 4 We learn that God demands obedience, and we can choose to obe out of love for Him or we can let Him teach us the hard way. Idolotry is forbidden. We learn that God continues to be merciful toward his people

(Verse 31). Verses 32-40 – The Lord reasserts His authority.

Verses 41-43 Describes the cities of refuge.

Verses 44-49 Prepares us to take one more look at the Ten Commandments

SUNDAY SOUNDS OF PRAISE-Agnus Dei-Michael W. Smith

A Study in Deuteronomy Week 2

Introduction Part 2

Satan hates the book of Deuteronomy. He tries to twist its meaning in the minds of Christians and Jews alike.

The probable reason for the satanic attack upon the Book of Deuteronomy is that the Lord Jesus Christ quoted exclusively from this book in beating back Satan’s temptation.

Little wonder Satan hates this book.

1st temptation — Matthew 4:4; Luke 4:4 compare Deuteronomy 8:3
2nd temptation — Matthew 4:7; Luke 4:12 compare Deuteronomy 6:16
3rd temptation — Matthew 4:10; Luke 4:8 compare Deuteronomy 6:13 and 10:20

The Old Testament prophets quoted from Deuteronomy frequently.

There are also over 80 references to it in the New Testament.

1. Greatest doctrinal statement in Old Testament: Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God is one LORD. (Deuteronomy 6:4)

2. First mention of the Great Tribulation: But if from there thou shalt seek the LORD thy God, thou shalt find him, if thou seek him with all thy heart and with all thy soul. When thou art in tribulation, and all these things are come upon thee, even in the latter days, if thou turn to the LORD thy God, and shalt be obedient unto his voice (for the LORD thy God is a merciful God), he will not forsake thee, neither destroy thee, nor forget the covenant of thy fathers which he swore unto them. (Deuteronomy 4:29-31)

3. Promise of a coming Prophet: The LORD thy God will raise up unto thee a Prophet from the midst of thee, of thy brethren, like unto me; unto him ye shall hearken, according to all that thou desiredst of the LORD thy God in Horeb in the day of the assembly, saying, Let me not hear again the voice of the LORD my God, neither let me see this great fire any more, that I die not. And the LORD said unto me, They have well spoken that which they have spoken. I will raise them up a Prophet from among their brethren, like unto thee, and will put my words in his mouth, and he shall speak unto them all that I shall command him. (Deuteronomy 18:15-18)

4. Test for determining true and false prophets: But the prophet, who shall presume to speak a word in my name, which I have not commanded him to speak, or who shall speak in the name of other gods, even that prophet shall die. And if thou say in thine heart, How shall we know the word which the LORD hath not spoken? When a prophet speaketh in the name of the LORD, if the thing follow not, nor come to pass, that is the thing which the LORD hath not spoken, but the prophet hath spoken it presumptuously thou shalt not be afraid of him. (Deuteronomy 18:20-22) (Every prophet had to speak into a local and immediate situation.)

5. Prewritten history of Israel in the land before they enter the land: Deuteronomy 28 — 30

6. Palestinian Covenant: Deuteronomy 29:1 — 30:10

7. The Song of Moses — Prophetic: Deuteronomy 32

a. Call to hear, vv. 1-4
b. The nation returns evil for the grace of God, vv. 5, 6
c. Jehovah’s goodness, vv. 7-14
d. Apostasy of the nation, vv. 15-18
e. Judgment of God upon them, vv. 19-25
f. Longing of God for His people, vv. 26-42
g. Nations of the world blessed with Israel, vv. 43, 44

8. Lonely and strange death of Moses: Deuteronomy 34:5-8 (One translation has it, “…died by the kiss of God” — God kissed Moses and put him to sleep. What a lovely thought!)

An Overview Study in Deuteronomy Week 1

Deuteronomy Introduction Part 1

Deuteronomy was written by Moses.

For most of church history “scholars” scoffed at the idea of Moses writing the book because they proclaimed that writing had not been invented by Moses’ time.

Now we have ample evidence that writing existed long before Moses.

The name Deuteronomy means “second law.”

This is neither another law nor a repitition of the Mosaic Law; rather it is an interpretation of the law based on 38 years of wilderness experience. It is a commentary on the Mosaic Law, much as Hebrews is a commentary for the Jews on Romans.

There are four Hebrew titles of Deuteronomy:

1. Debarim — “The Words” or “These be the Words”
2. The Kith, or the Fifth of the Law
3. The Book of Reproofs
4. The Iteration of the Law

The THEME of Deuteronomy is : “Obedience Out of Love”

Love of God — 4:37; 7:7, 8; 23:5
Love for God — 6:4, 5; 30:6, 16, 20
Obey God — 4:40; 11:26-28; 30:8-20

The book teaches that we are to obey God to demonstrated our love for Him.

“Love” occurs 22 times in Deuteronomy, “obey” 10 times.

This fits with Jesus’ statement: “The Lord Jesus said, “If ye love me, keep my commandments” (John 14:15). The true motive for obedience is stated in Deuteronomy 6:4, 5. God’s love for man is the motive for His government and the giving of laws. Man’s love of God is the motive for his obedience. This is not the gospel, but the principle of the gospel is here.

Moses gives the Israelites reasons to obey God:

1. Israel belonged to God (14:1)
2. God loved them (4:37)
3. God wanted to preserve and prosper them (4:1)
4. Their show of gratitude (4:7, 8)

Israel had broken God’s law through sins of commission; They had failed to believe God through sins of omission.

In Romans 8:3 Paul explained that the Law was “Weak through the flesh.”

The new generation of Israelites had not learned the Law, nor had they been required to follow it. A generation of permissiveness had arisen, much like today’s generations.

This new generation was unfamiliar with the experiences of Mt. Sinai, and they needed to have the Law called to their attention and interpreted in the light of their experience and future dwelling in the Promised Land.

The Book of Deuteronomy has been the center of attack by the critic. The critic stated that the purpose of the book was to glorify the priesthood at Jerusalem, but neither the priesthood nor Jerusalem is mentioned in Deuteronomy.

(This Introduction to Deuteronomy will continue next week)

SUNDAY SOUNDS OF PRAISE-Christ the Lord Is Risen Today-Steve Green

HAVE A WONDERFUL RESURRECTION SUNDAY EVERYBODY!

HOLY SATURDAY

Holy Saturday (today) is the first "full" day Jesus' body lay in the tomb.

Different churches have different "traditions" concerning Holy Saturday.

This much I know:

THE PHYSICAL JESUS IS DEAD...BUT SUNDAY'S ON THE WAY!

What’s So ‘Good’ About Good Friday?

Why do we call Good Friday “good,” when it is a such dark and bleak event commemorating a day of suffering and death for Jesus?

For Christians, Good Friday is a crucial day of the year because it celebrates what we believe to be the most momentous weekend in the history of the world. Ever since Jesus died and was raised, Christians have proclaimed the cross and resurrection of Jesus to be the decisive turning point for all creation. Paul considered it to be “of first importance” that Jesus died for our sins, was buried, and was raised to life on the third day, all in accordance with what God had promised all along in the Scriptures (1 Cor. 15:3-4).

On Good Friday we remember the day Jesus willingly suffered and died by crucifixion as the ultimate sacrifice for our sins. It is followed by Easter, the glorious celebration of the day Jesus was raised from the dead, heralding his victory over sin and death and pointing ahead to a future resurrection for all who are united to him by faith (Rom. 6:5).

Still, why call the day of Jesus’ death “Good Friday” instead of “Bad Friday” or something similar? Some Christian traditions do take this approach: in German, for example, the day is called Karfreitag, or “Sorrowful Friday.” In English, in fact, the origin of the term “Good” is debated: some believe it developed from an older name, “God’s Friday.” Regardless of the origin, the name Good Friday is entirely appropriate because the suffering and death of Jesus, as terrible as it was, marked the dramatic culmination of God’s plan to save his people from their sins.

As Doug Wilson recently wrote on the Resurgence, in order for the good news of the gospel to have meaning for us, we first have to understand the bad news of our condition as sinful people under condemnation. The good news of deliverance only makes sense once we see how we are enslaved. This is simply another way of saying that it is important to understand and distinguish the Law and the Gospel as the “two words” of scripture. We need the law first to show us how hopeless our condition is; then the gospel of Jesus’ grace comes and brings us relief and salvation.

In the same way, Good Friday is “good” because as terrible as that day was, it had to happen for us to receive the joy of Easter. The wrath of God against sin had to be poured out on Jesus, the perfect sacrificial substitute, in order for forgiveness and salvation to be poured out on the nations. Without that awful day of suffering, sorrow, and shed blood at the cross, God could not be both “just and the justifier” of those who trust in Jesus (Rom. 3:26). Paradoxically, the day that seemed to be the greatest triumph of evil was actually the deathblow in God’s gloriously good plan to redeem the world from bondage.

The cross is where we see the convergence of great suffering and God’s forgiveness. Psalm 85:10 sings of a day when “righteousness and peace” will “kiss each other.” The cross of Jesus is where that occurred, where God’s demands, his righteousness, coincided with his mercy. We receive divine forgiveness, mercy, and peace because Jesus willingly took our divine punishment, the result of God’s righteousness against sin. “For the joy set before him” (Heb. 12:2) Jesus endured the cross on Good Friday, knowing it led to his resurrection, our salvation, and the beginning of God’s reign of righteousness and peace.

Good Friday marks the day when wrath and mercy met at the cross. That’s why Good Friday is so dark and so Good.

Article by Justin Holcomb, Executive Director of Resurgence and Leadership Development at Mars Hill Church, a large church made up of smaller congregations and that meet in multiple states, including Washington, Oregon, California and New Mexico.

WE ARE FEARFULLY AND WONDERFULLY MADE!

I've seen this with the letters out of order, but this is the first time I've seen it with numbers.

It is a good example of how wonderful the human brain is: If you can read this you have a strong mind:

7H15 M3554G3

53RV35 7O PR0V3

H0W 0UR M1ND5 C4N

D0 4M4Z1NG 7H1NG5!

1MPR3551V3 7H1NG5!

1N 7H3 B3G1NN1NG

17 WA5 H4RD BU7

N0W, 0N 7H15 LIN3

Y0UR M1ND 1S

R34D1NG 17

4U70M471C4LLY

W17H 0U7 3V3N

7H1NK1NG 4B0U7 17,

B3 PROUD! 0NLY

C3R741N P30PL3 C4N

R3AD 7H15.

The more times you read it, the easier and more obvious it becomes!

What a mighty God we serve, that He could make us like that!

AN EFFECTIVE, FERVENT PRAYER

Hi, Lord, its me.

We are getting older and things are getting bad here. Gas prices are too high, no jobs, food and heating costs too high.

I know some have taken you out of our schools, government and even Christmas, but Lord I'm asking you to come back and re-bless America . We really need you!

There are more of us who want you than those who don't!

Thank You Lord, I Love you.

"Life without God is like an unsharpened pencil - it has no point."

SUNDAY SOUNDS OF PRAISE-Hallelujah, Praise the Lamb-The Talleys

A Study in John Week 5

John Chapter 21 (Due to my surgery, this lesson is being taught in church by my class member, Steve Bruzik)

Many scholars believe John added this “chapter” some time after the events of chapter 20.

There are 3 incidents recorded in this chapter: 1) the fishing experience on the lake (showing us that Jesus is to be the Lord of our wills); 2) the breakfast on the sea shore (showing us that Jesus is Lord of our hearts); and 3) the announcement of the death of Simon Peter and call him to service (showing us that He must be Lord of our minds).

Verses 1-3 – This is sort of the convention of the problem children: Simon Peter (impulsive and impetuous); Thomas (the skeptic, who had a question mark for a brain); Nathaniel (“Can any good thing come out of Nazareth); the sons of Zebedee (James and John) and two other disciples (maybe they represent you and me).

Peter, perhaps in an attempt to soothe his nerves, announces, “I’m going fishing.” It’s what he knew how to do. Remember, Jesus had said He would make him a fisher of men. The others volunteer to go with him. Although they were expert fishermen, they caught nothing.

Verses 4-14 – The disciples did not recognize Jesus standing on the shore. (Why not? Maybe He was too far away to be recognized.)

As they came in, Jesus asked, “Catch anything?” They answered, “Nope.” Jesus said, “Cast your net on the other side of the boat and you will find some.”

So, here’s this guy on the shore, telling the expert fishermen, now that they are in shallower water, to fish on the other side of the boat. That must have gone over well. But they did it.

When they did, they could hardly haul the net, there were so many fish! When you follow Jesus and allow Him to direct you, you can expect results!

Then John recognizes Jesus…whether by sight or by the miraculous experience, and shouts, “It is the Lord!” And they fellowship together around a camp fire…sharing their hearts. What stories there must have been around that camp fire!

Verses 15-17 Jesus asked Peter three times whether he loved Him. It went like this:
Jesus Peter Jesus
Do you agapao1 me? You know I phileo2 you. Feed3 my little lambs (newborn Christians).
Do you agapao1 me? You know I phileo2 you. Disciple4 my sheep (growing Christians).
Do you phileo2 me? You know I phileo2 you. Feed5 my sheep (maturing Christians).

We hear a lot about the words for “love” in the Greek. But there are some other important words used in this passage as well, as knowing them helps us understand the meaning better. They are:

1agapao – the highest, Godly love;
2phileo – strong “brotherly” affection;
3Feed – provide infant nourishment;
4poimaino – disciple or shepherd;
5Feed – provide adult nourishment.

Verse 19 – Jesus tells Peter that there will come a time when he (Peter) will follow in Christ’s footsteps in death, and then exhorts him to follow Him.

Verses 20-23 – Peter asks about John, whose special bond with Jesus Peter did not miss. Jesus tells him not to worry about others’ relationship to Him, but his own. Then He repeats, “Follow me.”

Followship is superior to “fanship.” To be a fan requires little commitment. To be a follower requires 100% commitment.

Verses 24-25 John identifies himself, and tells us there were many other things Jesus did.

SUNDAY SOUNDS OF PRAISE-Thank You, Lord-Don Moen

A Study in John Week 4

( Due to my surgery, this lesson is being taught in church by my class member, Steve Bruzik)

Between the crucifixion and the resurrection

The Jews never refused to bury any executed criminal, but instead of allowing the bodies of such sinners to be placed in family tombs, where they might desecrate those already buried, they provided a burial site for criminals just outside the city

Most of the disciples were keeping their distance from Jesus at this point in time. It does not even appear to be possible for any of Jesus’ disciples or family to secure His body and give it a proper burial. And to make the situation even more difficult, time to give Jesus a proper burial had virtually run out.

After His death He was given a rich man’s burial. We might even say that Jesus was given a burial “fit for a king.”

Even though the disciples had forgotten our Lord’s words about His resurrection, the Jewish religious leaders had not: they went with the soldiers of the guard and made the tomb secure by sealing the stone.

Once the stone was “sealed,” no one would dare to try to steal the body of Jesus, to make it look as if He had been raised from the dead in fulfillment of His own prophecies. And to be doubly sure, guards were posted at the tomb so that no one could gain access to the body of Jesus.

John Chapter 20

Verse 1-9 – It was on Sunday, early in the morning, Mary Magdalene went to the tomb. Joseph and Nicodemus had prepared the body for burial (John 19:40). They sealed in the body with 100 pounds of ointment, wrapped it with strips of linen cloth, and prepared it like a mummy. Each finger was wrapped separately, then the hand, then the arms were strapped to the body and the body was wound.

John and Peter knew that He could not have gotten out of that encasement. It would have been physically impossible to get that body out of graveclothes without unwinding them. John got to the tomb first, but would not go in. Peter (the impetuous one) had no trouble and went right in.

Verses 10-18 – Everybody but Mary Magdalene went home, presumably to mourn.

Jesus appeared to Mary, but would not allow her to touch Him. He told her to go tell the others, which she did.

Verses 19-23 – Jesus appeared to the disciples, who were overcome with elation. “…He breathed on them them…” is a reference to the other Scriptures that speak of the Holy Spirit being invisible like the air, but powerful like the wind.

Verses 24-31 – Thomas, being a “realist,” did not believe the disciples’ report. A week later Jesus appeared to the disciples and offered physical proof of His resurrection.

Many say, "If I just had physical proof of the resurrection, I would believe."

No, you wouldn't. Thousands saw proof of His power and diety face-to-face and still didn't believe.

Belief yields faith, and faith does not require proof.

YOUR PRAYERS ARE SOLICITED

I'll be going in for hip replacement surgery in the morning, and will not be blogging until at least Friday, and maybe longer.

If you would like to see what it is like, watch the following.

If you don't like watching this kind of thing, don't.

I find it interesting, neat, and I am looking forward to it.



I built a cabinet one time with tools very much like those used in the video.

See you soon!

SUNDAY SOUNDS OF PRAISE-Four Days Late-Keren Peck

A Study in John Week 3

John Chapter 19

Pilate faces Jesus

Verses 1-3 – Pilate should have released Jesus. He had found Him innocent of wrondoing. Instead he had Jesus beaten to unrecognizability. Jesus did not even look human after the scourging (See Isaiah 52:14). Even after the beating, Jesus was mocked and struck.

Verses 4-7 – Pilate once again said that he could find no fault with Jesus. It was the religious leaders who called out for His crucifixion. Pilate bascically said, “You want Him crucified, you do it. I find no basis for any charge agains Him.”

The Jews had a law with which to charge Jesus, but they did not have the authority to carry out an execution. Their charge was blasphemy, a capital offense. This is direct evidence that Jesus had claimed to be God.

Verses 8-11 – Pilate then tried to intimidate Jesus with his political power. Jesus would have none of it, and told him where his power came from. But notice that Jesus accused the religious leaders of being guilty of greater sin than the pagan, Pilate.

Verses 12-16a – Pilate continues to “get Jesus off,” but ultimately turned Him over to the Jews, who proclaimed their allegience to Ceasar.

The Crucifixion

Verses 16b-25 – Hebrew (Aramaic) was the language of religion; Greek was the language of culture, philosophy and learning while Latin was the language of law and power.

The inscription over the cross, Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews, was written in all three languages.

The Jews didn’t like it, but Pilate had had enough of them. “It is what it is, “ he said.

While Jesus was on the cross, dying a torturous death, the Roman guards shot dice for His garment to fulfill the prophecy of Psalm 22:8. While He was on that cross, 28 prophecies were accomplished and He proclaimed His work done.

For three hours, God pulled a veil of darkness over the land while He and Jesus completed the transaction that would set you and me free from the sin that besets us.

So, a carpenter who built His life on integrity, developed a significant local following but was otherwise unknown in the world, died a criminal on the cross, a criminal who had done nothing illegal.

More than 2,000 years later, in a world of turmoil, He is still the Hope of the world, the only hope for humanity.

The Jews, by crucifying their own Savior, trying to observe the Passover that speaks of Him, they are fulfilling prophecy. Compare John 19:36 with Exodus 12:46; Numbers 9:12; Psalm 34:20; and John 19:37 with Zechariah 12:10 and Revelation 1:7.

Verses 38-42 – Because He was only going to need it for three days, Jesus was placed in a borrowed tomb. The Jews only allowed Jesus to be burried there because they did not have time to carve a new tomb, it being the day of Preparation for Passover.

Jesus was dead, and it looked like Satan had won the battle. Great sadness filled the hearts of Jesus’ followers, while great joy filled the crevaces of Satan and his minions.

It was Friday.

But Sunday was on the way.

SUNDAY SOUNDS OF PRAISE-Agnus Dei-Andreas Scholl

A Study in John Week 2

John Chapter 18 - The Passion

The Verses

Verses 1-3 – Judas led the soldiers and priests to the olive grove. He knew the place, since he had been there before. Why torches and lanterns? Why weapons? Because they feared the power of Jesus.

Verses 4-9 – “Who is it you Want?” Didn’t Jesus know? Why did they fall back and to the ground? Jesus demonstrated that if He was arrested it was because He allowed it to happen. He even told them who they could and could not arrest.

Verses 10-11 – Peter drew his sword…why? Jesus told them not to fight the enemy. Jesus  had to “drink the cup.” The cup is the cross: Jesus came to die.

Verses 12-14 – The same Annas who had operated the Bazaar of Annas at the temple when Jesus overthrew the tables of the thieves. We don’t have a temple today. But if we did, it would be thievery if we sold things there at usury prices. Annas is the one who plotted the arrest and crucifixion of Jesus. The trial was a mockery; they had already decided that He was going to die.

Verses 15-18 – Peter chose to align himself with the servants and officials. He not only denied that he knew Jesus, he identified with Jesus’ enemies. He denied Jesus three times. Some have said it was one denial for each of the three persons of the Trinity.

Verses 19-24 – When questioned, Jesus pointed out that his preaching was open and to the public. Being struck by one of the officials demonstrates the length to which the religious leaders were willing to go to protect their religious system…even to violence. Jesus challenged them to actually verbalize what He has said that was wrong or untrue. They could not.

Verses 25-27 – Peter’s second and third denials of Jesus. It’s easy to love and admire Jesus. It is not so easy to follow Him. Recommendation: the book, “Not a Fan” by Kyle Idleman. What do you suppose went through Peter’s mind when the rooster crowed? What goes through your mind when you don’t follow Jesus?

Verses 28-32 – The Jews “did not want to be forbidden to eat the Passover. In the name of religion they were plotting the death of the very One who is the fulfillment of Passover! They “made” Pilate come out to them. Good Jews, those guys. They pointed out that they, of course, were right or else they wouldn’t have done what they did. Their response to Pilate showed that they had already made up their minds about Jesus’ fate. This was the fulfillment of the prophecy of His mode of death thousands of years before He was born.

Jesus before Pilate.

Verses 33-40 – Jesus knew how to handle Pilate. His question in verse 34 both embarrassed and enraged Pilate. He professed to know nothing of Jewish Law. Jesus makes a pretty bold statement: If you want the Truth, listen to Him (“I am the Way, the Truth and the Life…”).

Like all liberal politicians, Pilate twists the issue into a philosophical question. In the end, though, he could find no fault with Him.

Pilate offered the crowd a choice: release a known killer, extortionest, leader of a rebellion and thief or release an innocent man. The crowd chose to have the killer released. They wanted Jesus to be crucified.

Every person has a choice: the murderous; extortionistic, rebellious and thieving way of the world or Jesus. Most, sadly, reject Jesus. The way to eternal life is narrow, and it is a one way street.

Be sure you make your choice for Jesus.

SUNDAY SOUNDS OF PRAISE-He Reigns-Newsboys

A Study in John Week 1-The Passion

John Chapter 17

Jesus is facing the cross and He knows it.

It is not the pain of the cross He fears. It is not the nails, the humiliation or the injustisce of the cross He fears.

Jesus is about to suffer something unimaginable. While on the cross, God will turn His back on Christ. Jesus will bear the very penalty for all sin…sin He never committed.

Before all of this happens to Him, He prays a prayer unique in all of creation’s history.

His prayer has three parts: 1) He prayes for Himself; 2) He prays for His disciples and 3) He prays for His church.

The Verses

Jesus’ prayer for Himself

Verses 1-5 – Notice that Jesus looked up. He didn’t bow or kneel, He lifted up His eyes, which were apparently open. The position of prayer is secondary to the purpose of prayer. Prayer can happen with eyes wide open while standing, walking, driving or whatever. (Psalm 25:1, 123:1 & Psalm 121)
.
“Father the time has come.” Before the foundation of the world, Christ was the Lamb of God slain. This was the plan from before time began. But in the midst of time, it was time for Christ to pay a debt He did not owe.

“Glorify Thy Son.” All of the glory of the heavens and the universe belongs to Jesus. And Jesus simultaneously glorifies the Father.

John explains that those who come to Christ constitute the church, that is: Those that you have given Him.

The church can be seen as God’s gift to Christ; His elect; His bride.

“…with the glory I had with you before the world began.” If you cannot see that this is a reference to the Trinity and the creative activity of Christ before time began, then I guess you’ll just have to go back to school to learn to read.

Jesus’ Prayer for His Disciples

Verses 6-12 – Jesus gave His disciples the words God the Father gave Him to give to them.

Here Jesus once again identifies himself as one with the Father and the one able to protect them. He did it in the interest of their unity (“unity” is one of the major themes of Scripture).

Verses 13-19 – We are not of this world. The world hates the Word of God. The disciples were to spread the gospel. That gospel would be rejected by the world.

Jesus prays for his coming followers…us.

Verses 29-26 – We are one in Him. We are to be in Him and united in Him.

God’s love is shown to us in Jesus. He is both the source of love and the essence of love, for God IS love.

A Study in Hebrews-Week 15

Hebrews Chapter 13

Chapter 10 was the “privileges” chapter; chapter 11 was the “faith” chapter; was the “hope” chapter. And now we come to chapter 13, which is the “love” chapter.

You will remember that it was chapter 13 of I Corinthians that was its “love” chapter. In Romans, it was chapter 12. In II Corinthians chapter 8 was the love-in-action chapter, as was Galatians 6b. In Ephesians the practical aspect of love was emphasized.

Paul was big on love. And so he is in Hebrews.

The Verses

Verses 1-3 – We are to love each other. Paul also emphasizes the importance of loving strangers, in order that we might witness to them as he admonished us in chapter 12:15.

Verses 4-6 – Here Paul speaks of marriage as he did so often, particularly in Ephesians 5:21-32. and Colosians 3:16-25. Because he is speaking to Jews, he keeps it short and to the point: you be personally responsible for keeping your marriage honorable…free from adultery (in thought or deed), and don’t make money the central theme around which it is built.

Verses 7-8 – This love is to extend to your leaders (and here he is talking about your church leaders.

You owe “followship” to your spiritual leaders, so long as they do not lead you away from God’s Word, into illegality or to immorality.

Verses 9-10 – DO NOT BE INFLUENCED BY THOSE WHOSE DOCTRINES ARE DERIVED FROM SOME PERVERSION OF THE MEANING OF GOD’S WORD OR BY SOME VISION OR “SPECIAL” REVELATION.

Christian fellowship is when you are around the Word of God and when it brings you to the person of Christ.

The priests of the Old Covenant made their sin offerings in a specific place. We have an altar without and “address.” It is the Throne of Grace.

Verses 11-14 – The priests of the Old Covenant made the sin offering outside the city walls.

Jesus made his sacrifice outside of the city. He was the sin offering. We are to go to Him.

Verses 15-16 – The only sacrifice we have is ourselves as living sacrifices (Romans 12:1-4) and our praise that confesses His name.

Verse 17 – We are to make our pastor’s work an absolute joy. We are to help him and stand beside him.

Verses 18-19 – Paul desired the prayers of God’s people.

Verses 20-21 – Paul asks that God would equip us with everything we need to accomplish His will, and that we will strive to do what is pleasing to Him.

Verses22-25 – Paul actually had much more to say, but he wanted to get this much out immediately.

He also reminds the reader to lovingly greet their leaders and God’s people from Italy, who send their greetings.

He closes with a prayer for God’s GRACE to be with every one of them.

That's love.

SUNDAY SOUNDS OF PRAISE-Praise the Lord-Imperials

A Study in Hebrews-Week 14

Hebrews Chapter 12 Part 2

The Verses

Verse 14 – Living in peace with one another does not come easily, automatically or by magic. It takes work. We must strive to overlook and forgive one another’s foils and fables.

Our holiness comes from God through Christ, and is not the result of our own efforts.

Verse 15 – We are to be a constant witness of the grace of God to everyone.

Verse 16 – We are our brothers’ keepers. If they are not saved, we must introduce them to Christ.

Verse 17 – There is a point at which it is no longer possible to reach some people because they have rejected God’s Spirit so often that their hearts are hardened to the gospel.

Verses 18-21 – Here is reference to Moses at Mt. Sinai. Mt. Sinai represents the Old Covenant. A believer is not brought back to the legal system of the Old Covenant (see Exodus 19).

Verses 22-24 – “You have come to Mt. Zion, “Ye are come” indicates position. A believer is
brought to the New Covenant:

(1) “Mt. Zion,” the heavenly city;
(2) “city of the living God”;
(3) “heavenly Jerusalem”;
(4) “angels” in joyful assembly;
(5) “general assembly and church of the first-born” — New Testament church;
(6) “God, the Judge” — the Lord Jesus Christ;
(7) “spirits of just men made perfect” — evidently a reference to Old Testament saints;
(8) “Jesus, the mediator of the new covenant”;
(9) blood of Jesus — better than Abel’s blood.

Verse 25 – This is warning against failing to hear the voice of Jesus through the Holy Spirit, both for the unsaved and the saved. We are to pay attention to God’s voice in our lives.

Verses 26-27 – This reminds us that privilege creates responsibility. God has nothing more to say. The Word of Jesus is final. There is danger of not hearing Him. He is shaking the world that men might see some things unshakeable.

Verse 28-29 – We are reminded that what we have in Christ is “earthquake proof.” It is set on a firm foundation (who is Christ), and therefore should fall down in worship with reverence and awe.

SUNDAY SOUNDS OF PRAISE--JESUS IN EVERY BOOK OF THE BIBLE-He Is-AaronJeoffrey

The Bible is God's revelation of His character, His love for
His creation and His plan for its redemption. It's not me, it's not about you. It's all about Him.

A Study in Hebrews-Week 13

Hebrews Chapter 12 Part 1

The Verses

Verse 1 – Once again Paul uses his signature connective “Therefore”(“Wherefore in KJV). Since all of these Old Covenant people had joined us in their faith in Christ, as “witnesses” (not spectators, but active in their lives), we are to throw off those things that attach us to the world.

Verse 2 – “Let us fix our eyes on Jesus” is a continuation of the “therefore” in verse 1. He is the Pioneer (KJV “author”). That is He is the originator of and the focus of our faith. He authored our faith before the beginning of time. He is also the “Perfecter” (KJV: “finisher”) of our faith. He has finished the work of redemption and now sits at the right hand of God.

Verse 3 – Believers are now in both a contest and a conflict. Jesus knows our struggle and the hurdles we have to overcome.

Verse 4 – There is still a struggle with sin in our lives and we are tempted just as He was in His 40 days n the wilderness. But the shedding of our blood is insufficient to cover sin. Only the shedding of HIS blood is adequate.

Verse 5 & 6 – We have been made God’s children.

It is a mistake when the world says, “We are all God’s children.” Only those who have received the gift of His salvation through faith in, and only in, the finished work of Christ at the cross of Calvary are His children.

He quotes from Proverbs 3:11 & 12.

The word “discipline” does NOT mean “punishment.” It is the same root as “disciple,” one who trains Himself to follow Christ. However the word for “punishment” used in verse 6 means to train (Greek-paideuo) and the word “punishes” or “scourgeth” (Greek-mastigoo) means to press into your mind by force, in a whip-like manner.

(NOTE: Almost all translations try to make this verse mean “gives a whipping to,” which is not the picture it is conveying).

Verse 7 – This really clears the matter up, as it is a continuation of the same thought and tells us that when hardships occur we should see them as opportunities to deepen our faith.

Verse 8 – Further explains that if you are not disciplined (properly trained), you are a fake Christian. (Could this be a strong argument for a Discipleship Training Ministry?)

Verse 9 – Fathers discipline [train (as in Proverbs 22:6)] their children. Properly disciplined (trained) children respect their fathers more than untrained children do. Likewise, we should be trained by God and should submit ourselves to His training.

Verse 10 – As with high school or college, there is an end to the training period, but the learning never stops.

Verse 11 – Discipline is hard to endure. An athlete must train for his sport with weight lifting, running, pushing the blocking sled, etc., and it is tough. But the rewards are great when he gets to play in the Super Bowl.

Discipline in God’s ways produce “…a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who are trained by it.”

Verses 12-13 – Do what it takes to strengthen yourself so you can be useful in the healing of others by introducing them to God’s salvation.

SUNDAY SOUNDS OF PRAISE-The Lighthouse-John Starnes

A Study in Hebrews-Week 12

Hebrews Chapter 11

This chapter is often called “The Hall of Faith.”

Verse 1 – The definition of faith is found in this verse. In the King James, faith is “substance” (Greek: hupostasis-a scientific term meaning the opposite of a theory or title deed). Faith is also “evidence” (Greek elegchos) is a legal term; it is evidence that is accepted for conviction.

Verse 2 – It was their faith that got the “ancients” (also called “Elders”) that got them “commended” in God’s eyes, not their behavior.

Verse 3 – This is a critical verse regarding the application of our faith. This verse reminds us that God creates, He does not just rearrange what already is.When there was no such thing as light, God spoke it into being.

Verses 4-32a – Each of these people represent a different characteristic of faith:

Abel – the worship of faith (Genesis 4:1-5);

Enoch – the walk of faith (Genesis 5:21-24);

Verse 6 – tells us we come to God only by faith. The emphasis is not on His existence or His rewards, but on His being.

Noah – the witness of faith;

Abraham – the obedience of faith;

Sarah – the power of faith;

Isaac – the willingness of faith (Isaac was grown when Abraham offered him on the altar. Abraham believed in the resurrection.);

Isaac and Jacob – the future of faith; Joseph – the fulfillment of God’s promises;

Moses – the sacrifices of faith;

Joshua – the foolishness of faith (How absurd to think one could bring down a city by marching around its walls);

Rahab – the unlikely place of faith;

Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, David and Samuel – faith in action.

Verses 32b-38 – The persecution in store for people of faith.

Verses 39-40 – These are not necessarily heroes of faith, but this is what faith has done in the history of man under different circumstances in different periods through different individuals.

Faith has no merit in itself; merit is in the object of faith.

In other words, we musn’t have faith in our faith, but in Christ, His finished work at the cross of Calvary and His resurrection.

SUNDAY SOUNDS OF PRAISE-Just Hold On-The Nightingales

A Study in Hebrews-Week 10

Hebrews Chapter 10 (Part 2) – Verses 19-39

Verse 19-22 – In typical Pauline fashion, he begins this section with “Therefore,” a conclusion to be drawn from the fact that we are now engaged in a New Covenant through Christ.

Since we have been saved, let us be confident in our salvation. Let us realize that the tearing of the veil in the temple was a picture of Christ’s physical death and His spiritual opening of the gates of heaven. Thus we can draw confidently in faith to God.

Verse 23-25 – The hope we have must be unswerving. If it swerves, it was false hope. We can draw near to God in our hope (ourselves) and in love (others).

We are to meet together for worship, to encourage one another and to demonstrate our steadfast hope. “My hope is built on nothing less than Jesus’ blood and (His) righteousness.”

Verses 26-31 – The phrase “no sacrifice for sin is left” gives us the explanation of what verse 26 is about: Going back to the sacrificial system, which would mean that Christ’s death had no purpose and was futile. But it did have purpose, was complete and will not have to be done again.

In verse 28 we see the Pauline doctrine that the Mosaic Law exacted the death penalty (Numbers 15:30 & 31; Deuteronomy 17:2-7). There is no comparison between rejecting the Law and rejecting God’s provision of salvation through Christ.

The sanctifying blood of the New Covenant is Holy, and to reject it is to “reject” the Holy Spirit, calling Him who He is not…the unpardonable sin.

Verse 30 reminds us that God has the right to judge. He is the perfect judge and His judgements, when contrasted with ours, are right and ours, if they contradict His, are wrong.

God is awesome, that is: He demands our fearful awe because of who He is (verse 31).

Verses 34-34 – Remember, Hebrews is written to the Jews as a commentary on Romans. When Jews turned to Christ, they were severely persecuted. They suffered. They were insulted, their land and property was confiscated and they were treated to all sorts of indignities.

But when one comes to Christ, one is given a strength that is supernatural. And the Jews were able to stand their ground in His power and were able to hold one another up. They knew that they had a posession that was superior to any earthly possession they could own.

Verses 35-39 – Here is Paul’s encouragement for the Jews to remain faithful (confident). The Lord will return and those who have exercised their faith will be vindicated (see Habakkuk 2:3 & 4).

Paul is certain that those who have truly accepted the claim of Christ on their lives will remain steadfast in their faith.

Thus we have the groundwork for the Hall of Faith, perhaps the most famous full section of the book of Hebrews.

SUNDAY SOUNDS OF PRAISE-Midnight Cry-John Starnes

A Study in Hebrews-Week 10

Hebrews Chapter 10 (Part 1)

In this chapter we find a continuation of the theme of “superior sacrifice” of Christ and a comparison of the New Covenant with the Old Covenant.

The Verses

Verse 1 – The Law was only a shadow (Greek skian - a hazy outline). It is an image (Greek eikona - likeness) of things to come. Old sacrifices were a shadow, not substance. You cannot live in the shadow of a house…you need the real house. Likewise, we cannot live in the shadow (OC), we need the real thing (NC).

Verse 2 – Under the Old Covenant, sacrifices had to be repeated over and over because they never accomplished the remission of sin. Being aware of sin is not the same as being cleansed of sin. Christ is the only one who provides cleansing from sin.

Verses 3-4 – Each OC sacrifice was a reminder of sin, not a removal of it. Christ blots out our sins and remembers them no more (Hebrews 8:12).

Verses 5-8 – This is a quotation from Psalm 40:6-8; cf. Isaiah 50:4, 5. “A body hast thou prepared me” is in the Old Testament, “Mine ears hast thou opened” (Psalm 40:6; see also Exodus 21:1-6). A slave had his earlobe pierced if he had married a woman in slavery and chose to stay in slavery with her. Christ was crucified in a body that He might redeem the church.

Verse 9 – It is God’s will to do away with animal sacrifices, sacrificing Himself instead.

Verse 10 – We are consecrated through the offering of Christ by the will of God. You, if you are truly saved, are “positionally sanctified.”

Verse 11 – The priests stood of the daily offerings, and they were never completed…that is, they did not accomplish salvation.

Verse 12 – Jesus sat down (at the right hand of God). His work was finished – “one sacrifice for sins forever.

Verse 13 – As evidenced in Psalm 110:1, this is a reference to the second coming of Christ.

Verse 14 – The one offering of Christ did what many offerings could not do. If Christ cannot save you and keep you, then God has no way to save you and keep you.

Verses 15-17 – The Holy Spirit is God. This repeats Hebrews 8:10-12 and comes from Jeremiah 31:33 & 34. Verse 17 is added as the essential part of the Jeremiah quotation.

Verse 18 – Once sin is forgiven, it does not have to be forgiven again. Many times we pray for forgiveness for some sin and then hold on to it as though it has not been forgiven. We need to assimilate this verse into our lives and live as though the sin has been forgiven…it has!

To Be Continued

SOUNDAY SOUNDS OF PRAISE-What Salvation's Done for Me-Booth Brothers

A Study in Hebrews-Week 9

Hebrews Chapter 09

The Verses

Verse 1 – Here we see a contrast being set up to distinguish the “earthly” sanctuary from the heavenly sanctuary. We also see the contrast between the “first” covenant (Old Covenant) and the new.

Verse 2 – The tabernacle is used to picture the spiritual. Here we see the floor plan and the furniture. (Don’t ever tell me that God is not organized or concerned with details).

Verses 3-4 – The “Golden censer” (KJV) is the Most Holy Place. It is an altar of incense. It speaks of prayer.

Verse 5 – Paul (whom I believe wrote Hebrews as a commentary on Romans to the Jews) does not want to go into detail about the tabernacle because it is not the subject. The subject is the priesthood…specifically the priesthood of Christ.

Verses 6-10 – The “Holy of Holies” was a temporary, makeshift arrangement. Only Christ can bring us to God (John 14:6)

Verse 11 – The better tabernacle does not belong to this natural creation. The better tabernacle is both spiritual and literal…it is real.

Verse 12 – Christ did not depend on the blood of animals, but on His own blood. “…having obtained eternal redemption…” is not a reference to Christ being redeemed, but of the completeness of His work to obtain redemption for His redeemed. His is a superior sacrifice to the earthly sacrifices of animals.

Verses 13-14 – If the blood of animals could produce redemption, there would have been no reason for Christ to die on the cross.

Verse 15 – Christ is now the mediator of the New Covenant.

Verses 16-17 – When we make a will, it does no good while we are yet alive. So Christ’s will was “made active” through his sacrificial death.

Verses 18-22 – The word “blood” occurs six times in this section. There was the ritualistic blood of the Old Testament contrasted with the saving power of the blood of Christ under the New Covenant.

Verse 23 – Earthly things need cleansing because of “original sin.” The Old Testament holy sacraments, artifacts and ceremonies were only pictures of the spiritual things to come.

Verse 24 – Christ did not enter heaven through earthly, man-made sacrifices, but through the perfect sacrifice of Himself. It is through Him that we, too, must enter the heavenly sanctusry.

Verse 25 – The priest had to repeatedly enter the sanctuary.

Verse 26 – Christ entered only once…and that for eternity.

Verse 27 – Christ had failed to save in His death at His first coming, there would be nothing afterward but judgment. He is not coming back to die.

Verse 28 – This is not a reference to the Rapture, but His coming as Sovereign to
judge the earth. Believers will not come into judgment.

SUNDAY SOUNDS OF PRAISE-I Will Be Here-Steven Curtis Chapman

A Study in Hebrews-Week 8

Hebrews Chapter 08

Chapter 7:25 begins the high water mark of Hebrews He died down here to save us; He lives up there to keep us saved. He is able to keep on saving us. “To the uttermost” is all the way through; completely; perfectly. “Intercession” is intervention. “We shall be saved by his life” (Romans 5:10).

The Verses

Verses 1-5 – “The true tabernacle.” He is the real/genuine tabernacle. A priest must offer gifts and sacrifices. Christ offers gifts and sacrifices. Christ did not offer gifts and sacrifices on earth. On earth HE was the sacrificial Lamb of God.

The earthly priesthood was a shadow (a picture) of the tabernacle of Heaven. Christ serves in the real tabernacle (Hebrew: משכן‎, mishkan, "residence" or "dwelling place").

Here we have a better sacrifice, a better priest, and a better tabernacle. He died down here to save us; He lives above to keep us saved.

Verses 6-13 – There are two covenants. Christ is the Mediator of the better covenant…the NEW COVENANT.

The first covenant was not adequate. It sought a righteousness grounded in the Law.

In Romans we learned that if we depend on the Law of the Old Testament we are doomed. Romans 3:21-23 – “But now a righteousness from God, apart from the Law has been made known, to which the Law and the Prophets testify. This righteous from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe.”

There is nothing wrong with the Old Covenant, but it could only save perfect people. Romas 3: 20 – “Therefore, no one will be declared righteous in His sight by observing the Law; rather, through the Law we become conscious of sin.”

The New Covenant causes people to be seen as perfect by God through Christ’s eyes when we place our faith in Him, His death, burial and resurrection.

Jeremiah 31:31-34 told us that the New Covenant was coming. 31 “The days are coming,” declares the LORD, “when I will make a new covenant with the people of Israel and with the people of Judah. 32 It will not be like the covenant I made with their ancestors when I took them by the hand to lead them out of Egypt, because they broke my covenant, though I was a husband to them,” declares the LORD. 33 “This is the covenant I will make with the people of Israel after that time,” declares the LORD. “I will put my law in their minds and write it on their hearts. I will be their God, and they will be my people. 34 No longer will they teach their neighbor, or say to one another, ‘Know the LORD,’ because they will all know me, from the least of them to the greatest,” declares the LORD. “For I will forgive their wickedness and will remember their sins no more.”

The church (a group of people redeemed from sin by Christ’s sacrificial death) is the beneficiary of the New Covenant. The Greek word "ecclesia" is correctly defined as: "The called-out (ones), gathered"

Verse 13 is important: "By calling this covenant ‘new,’ He has made the first one obsolete, and what is obsolete and aging will soon disappear."

We are bound by the New Covenant, not the Old Covenant…and that should be shouting ground!

A Study in Hebrews-Week 7

Hebrews Chapter 07

In Hebrews 5:10 and 6:20 we were told that Jesus is “…in the order of Melchizedek” (refer to Genesis 14:17-24).

In Chapter 7, Paul (whom I believe to be the author of Hebrews and uses it as a Hebrew commentary on his letter to the Romans), expands on the Melchizedek analogy.

The Verses

Verses 1-3 – “Melchizedek” means my king is righteous. He was king of Salem (Jerusalem), which means peace.

He was not a priest by virtue of the Mosaic Law, but of the “most high God.”

We have no record of his parentage, and had no “pedigree.” There is no record of the end of Melchizedek’s priesthood.

Verses 4-12 – Abraham had given Melchizedek a tenth of the spoil (Genesis 14:20).

Melchizedek is greater than the Levitical priesthood. You and I are in Adam (Romans 5:12; 1 Corinthians 15:22). You and I are in Christ (Romans 8:1; Ephesians 1:1).

Aaron’s priesthood belonged to the Mosaic Law. Christ has delivered us from the Law.

The purpose of the priesthood is to bring perfection— to restore and continue the relationship to God. The Levitical priesthood was powerless.

Verses 13-19 – This section shows us a contrast between two types of priesthood: Law vs. Power (Law restrains — power enables); Commandment (external) vs. Life (internal); Carnal (flesh) vs. Endless (eternal life); Changing vs. Unchanging; Weakness and un-profitableness vs. Nigh to God; Nothing perfect vs. Better hope.

Verses 20-24 – Here we have a quote from Psalm 110. The “better covenant” in verse 22 is the New Covenant. The Levitical priesthood was interrupted by death. Christ is the perpetual, perfect priest (vs 23-28).

Verse 25 – This is the key verse of this section and the center of the gospel. Christ is not dead, but living. Emphasize the death and resurrection of Christ — but go on from there (see Romans 8:34; Revelation 1:18). He died down here to save us; He lives up there to keep us saved. He is able to keep on saving us.

“To the uttermost” is all the way through; completely; perfectly. “Intercession” is intervention. “We shall be saved by his life” (Romans 5:10).

Verse 26 – Christ “became us,” that is, He is just what we needed. He is “Holy” in relation to God. “Harmless” is free from malice, craftiness, or cleverness. “Undefiled” is free from moral impurity. “Separate from sinners” — He is like us, yet He is unlike us.

Verses 27-28 - This underlines the value of the sacrifice. Christ is the sacrifice that the Aaronic priesthood could not provide.

Christ is the final word in priesthood.

CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION-The University of Nebraska Lincoln's UNIVERSITY SINGERS-Dr. Peter Eklund

CHRISTMAS SONGS OF PRAISE-Where's the Line to See Jesus-Becky Kelley

A Study in Hebrews-Week 6

Hebrews Chapter 06

Many Hebrew Christians wanted to go back to Judaism, with its rules and regulations.

Verses 1-3: Let’s grow up! Grow up from the works of the Law. Israel was in a pattern of keep-break-keep-break…baby stuff.

This is a reference to the ceremonial washings of the Old Testament-they wanted to go back and do those things (see the book of Galatians). The “laying on of hands” sprung from ceremonial washings in OT.

Verses 4-9: Is this about whether it is possible for a saved person ever to be lost?

Many theologians have shied away from this passage.

Some hold the position that it is possible to lose your salvation.

Some contend that the “if” is hypothetical. Others say this is talking about those who “profess” but have not really accepted Christ.

Some theologs hold that it is impossible for those who have turned away from Christ to be brought “back” to Him because they never were with Him to begin with.

Still others teach that we have a sure salvation (Romans 8:1 & 33-37; “My sheep hear my voice…eternal life…they shall never perish…”). It is about His ability to hold on to you. “it is impossible for those who have tasted (not eaten)…” the gospel and who do not embrace it to come back to it.

Some theologians say this is not about salvation at all. They say this is about believers and their rewards. This is for the repentance of believers. It is about the fruit, not the root, of salvation. Paul is talking about the things that accompany salvation. They are in danger of losing their reward.

(Verse 6) “fall away” is the Greek word, “parapipto,” which is the same phrase used of Christ in the Garden when He “fell” on His face in prayer. It means to fall down, and does not refer to apostasy.

(Verse 8): Works do not save you, but they give evidence of your salvation. Before you are born, heredity determines your life. After you are born, your environment determines your life. Before you are born again, works do not enter into your “goodness.” After you are born again, works are important to witness to your salvation.

Verses 10-20: We are to minister to the saints. We are not to be lazy Christians. We must not say, “OK, I’m saved. Now I’ll sit back and enjoy my salvation.”

(Verse 15): After waiting Abraham received his promise. And he had to wait a LONG time.

(Verse 18): The two unchangeable things are: the death of Christ and the resurrection of Christ These are the condensation of the four principles in Romans 8.

We are approaching the time when we celebrate the birth of Jesus. It is important to remember the following:
1) The birth of Jesus is important, but not the point; 2) Christ (the Greek word for the Hebrew Messiah) always has been (John 1:1ff); 3) He came for one reason...to die a sacrificial death on the cross of Calvary for the remission of sins and sealed that deal with His resurrection (Romans 10:9 & 10).

Trusting in the birth of Jesus will gain you nothing. Trusting in, and only in, Christ's finished work at the cross of Calvary and His resurrection will gain you eternal life.

CHRISTMAS SOUNDS OF FAITH-God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen-Mannheim Steamroller

NOTE: Today's Bible lesson in Hebrews will appear next Saturday due to special programming at our church this week.

SUNDAY SOUNDS OF FAITH-O Come, O Come Emmanuel-Celtic Christmas

A Study in Hebrews-Week 5

Hebrews Chapter 05

Definition of a priest. Important, because Paul calls Christ a priest. A priest engages in Sacrifice; Substance; and Prayer. A Priest is one who offers gifts and sacrifices. He is: 1) Taken from among men…he must be a person; 2) Be acceptable to God…ordained by God and 3)Be ordained for man…Representing man to God

A priest goes from man to God to represent man to God. A prophet comes from God to man with a message from God. A priest does not tell us what God has to say. He represents us before God. The only one who can represent us is the Lord Jesus, Christ. The priesthood is not for lost sinners but for saved sinners.

We tend toward either an emotional or a ritualistic approach to worship. We need to come to Him simply and rid ourselves of the meaningless trappings.

The verses:

1. The gift Christ offers to God for the forgiveness of our sins is Himself. No other gift would have been sufficient. He is our advocate (lawyer), and the best one there is.

2. Jesus was sinless, but can have compassion on those who commit sins of ignorance (Leviticus 4:2.). Christ takes care of those sins. He does not lecture us about how badly we have behaved…he just cleanses us from all unrighteousness.

3. The priest had to sacrifice for himself as well as for others. Christ did not have to make an offering for Himself.

4. He is the highest priest because He is acceptable to God

5. The beginning of His priesthood has to do with the resurrection.

6. Aaron’s order is not adequate…Christ is a Son, Aaron was just a servant. Melchizedek is only mentioned in Genesis 14. He brought forth food and wine for Abraham as the priest of the Most High God. Psalm 110 the prophecy of Christ in the order of Melchizedek.

7. Three occasions Jesus wept: Grave of Lazarus; over Jerusalem; Garden of Gethsemane. Some theologians teach that “Let this cup pass” refers to His dying in the garden. He did not want to die there. If He prayed in the garden to “let this cup pass” and that meant He didn’t want to die on the cross, His prayer was not heard. In a very real sense, He wanted to go to the cross! He found the cross joyful…He submitted to God. That is unfathomable to us.

8. He only offers eternal salvation. If you can lose it tomorrow, it wasn’t eternal, was it? (See John 3:16)

Why did the Son of God need to learn obedience by suffering? The only answer is that God got
something out of the death of Christ that has made Heaven more wonderful.

9. Why did the one who was perfect need to be made perfect? These are two significant mysteries. Lots of theologians have given their answers, but none of them satisfy me.

10. “Designated” comes from the word for “salute.” Melchizedek was a “type” of the priesthood of the Lord, Jesus, Christ.

11. As a group, we are not very good learners. We are “dull of hearing.”

12. We ought to be teachers, when we, ourselves still need to be taught. What we need to learn is not the depth of the Word. Paul says we need to learn the elementary truths of the Word…milk, not solid food. And we need it again and again.

13. Turn this around and realize that too many of us teach what we call “righteousness” when it is really nothing more than “behaviorism.” Not the same thing at all.

14. Ask yourself the question: Am I mature enough to absorb the solid food of the Word?

If we are not growing, we are dying, both personally and corporately as the church. Let us grow as the Body of Christ, into mature, Word-filled people of God.