I've made it through Isaiah in my Scripture reading this year. As I read, I noticed two broad stroke themes laced throughout the book. Number one, your idols are worse than worthless. Number two, I (the Lord God) will save you. I've needed to hear this message, because, like the children of Israel, I am good at worshiping (ordering my life around) things that are not God. And also because I cannot fix myself. No matter how hard I try, or how much I am able to change various behaviors, or even attitudes, my heart is still wicked. Praise God that He is able to restore what is broken!
O house of Jacob, come, let us walk in the light of the LORD. For you have rejected your people, the house of Jacob, because they are full of things from the east and of fortune-tellers like the Philistines, and they strike hands with the children of foreigners. Their land is filled with silver and gold, and there is no end to their treasures; their land is filled with horses, and there is no end to their chariots. Their land is filled with idols; they bow down to the work of their hands, to what their own fingers have made.
Isaiah 2:5-8
For I the LORD love justice; I hate robbery and wrong; I will faithfully give them their recompense, and I will make an everlasting covenant with them. Their offspring shall be known among the nations, and their descendants in the midst of the peoples; all who see them shall acknowledge them, that they are an offspring the LORD has blessed. I will greatly rejoice in the LORD; my soul shall exult in my God, for he has clothed me with the garments of salvation; he has covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decks himself like a priest with a beautiful headdress, and as a bride adorns herself with her jewels. For as the earth brings forth its sprouts, and as a garden causes what is sown in it to sprout up, so the Lord GOD will cause righteousness and praise to sprout up before all the nations.
Isaiah 61:8-11
Thursday, July 31, 2014
Tuesday, July 29, 2014
Facets
There are SO MANY pictures in the Bible. God has chosen to reveal Himself to us in things we know and can understand. He is our Father (John 20:17), our King (Psalm 47:7). Christ is our Shepherd (John 10:11), a door (John 10:9), a rock (Psalm 18:31). We are grass (Psalm 103:15), dust (Psalm 103:14), mist (James 4:14). The kingdom of heaven is like a pearl (Matthew 13:45-46) or a mustard seed (Matthew 13:31).
Marriage is a picture of our union with Christ, but singleness highlights Christ's sufficiency in a way marriage never can. Here's the thing, God is too much GREATER than us for just one illustration to capture! Just like the facets of a gemstone catch the light to emphasize the beauty of the stone, the church, combining and reflecting the many illustrations God has provided emphasizes HIS glory!
Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife even as Christ is the head of the church, his body, and is himself its Savior. Now as the church submits to Christ, so also wives should submit in everything to their husbands. Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her, that he might sanctify her, having cleansed her by the washing of water with the word, so that he might present the church to himself in splendor, without spot or wrinkle or any such thing, that she might be holy and without blemish. In the same way husbands should love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself. For no one ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it, just as Christ does the church, because we are members of his body. "Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and hold fast to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh." This mystery is profound, and I am saying that it refers to Christ and the church. However, let each one of you love his wife as himself, and let the wife see that she respects her husband.
Ephesians 5:22-33
To the unmarried and the widows I say that it is good for them to remain single as I am.
1 Corinthians 7:8
Only let each person lead the life that the Lord has assigned to him, and to which God has called him. This is my rule in all the churches.
1 Corinthians 7:17
Marriage is a picture of our union with Christ, but singleness highlights Christ's sufficiency in a way marriage never can. Here's the thing, God is too much GREATER than us for just one illustration to capture! Just like the facets of a gemstone catch the light to emphasize the beauty of the stone, the church, combining and reflecting the many illustrations God has provided emphasizes HIS glory!
Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife even as Christ is the head of the church, his body, and is himself its Savior. Now as the church submits to Christ, so also wives should submit in everything to their husbands. Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her, that he might sanctify her, having cleansed her by the washing of water with the word, so that he might present the church to himself in splendor, without spot or wrinkle or any such thing, that she might be holy and without blemish. In the same way husbands should love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself. For no one ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it, just as Christ does the church, because we are members of his body. "Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and hold fast to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh." This mystery is profound, and I am saying that it refers to Christ and the church. However, let each one of you love his wife as himself, and let the wife see that she respects her husband.
Ephesians 5:22-33
To the unmarried and the widows I say that it is good for them to remain single as I am.
1 Corinthians 7:8
Only let each person lead the life that the Lord has assigned to him, and to which God has called him. This is my rule in all the churches.
1 Corinthians 7:17
Tuesday, July 22, 2014
Christmas in July-- Day 8
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the
Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made
through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made. In
him was life, and the life was the light of men. The light shines in the
darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. There was a man sent
from God, whose name was John. He came as a witness, to bear witness
about the light, that all might believe through him. He was not the
light, but came to bear witness about the light. The true light, which
enlightens everyone, was coming into the world. He was in the world, and
the world was made through him, yet the world did not know him. He came
to his own, and his own people did not receive him. But to all who did
receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become
children of God, who were born, not of blood nor of the will of the
flesh nor of the will of man, but of God. And the Word became flesh and
dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son
from the Father, full of grace and truth. (John bore witness about him,
and cried out, "This was he of whom I said, 'He who comes after me ranks
before me, because he was before me.'") And from his fullness we have
all received, grace upon grace. For the law was given through Moses;
grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. No one has ever seen God; the
only God, who is at the Father's side, he has made him known.
John 1:1-18
Questions:
1. What five things is Jesus called in this passage?
2. What four things does He do?
3. What do we receive?
In this passage Jesus is called 1a) the Word. The language here is probably intended to mirror the opening words of Genesis, "In the beginning, God...". This Word is a very particular word, He is 1b) God. He is fully God, but He is not to be confused with the Father. They are two distinct persons who share the same nature. Next we read that He is 1c) life. Because He IS life, He can GIVE life. This fact is highlighted throughout John's gospel. And He is 1d) light. I am a fan of light, so I particularly enjoy the word picture here. Fifth, He is 1e) the Son. In the first verse, John made the distinction between two of the persons of the Godhead, now he introduces them to us as Father and Son. These names tell us something about how God interacts with Himself in the trinity. It kind of makes my head hurt to think about this for long...
As with most introductions, we meet the character(s). However, characters can be pretty boring if they're not doing something! The first "doing" thing in our passage is that Jesus was involved in creation. He 2a) "made all things". Sit and ponder that for a moment. Scientifically, we know more about our world than ever before. We have machines that allow us to dive deeper in the ocean, magnify tiny particles to visibility, and travel the globe in days! When I think about the quantity and diversity and variety in creation, I am amazed! But He wasn't just involved in making all this. Next we see that 2b) "the light shines in the darkness". Think back through the drama of the first three chapters of Genesis. God created the entire universe with His words. He made people to reflect His image on the earth in worship. Then in chapter three, Adam and Eve sinned. They rebelled against the Good God who created them and provided their every need. Darkness fell in their souls. But the Light is not just shining down from heaven. 2c) And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us. God the Son became a man. Again, my brain hurts when I think about this for very long. I think the last action in this passage is my favorite. Jesus 2d) makes the Father known. Because of Christ's work, I can KNOW God! I can KNOW the Holy Creator!
Finally, there are a few things that we receive. First, we receive 3a) the right to become children of God. We are adopted into His family. We have access to God as a Father! What a privilege! And we receive 3b) grace!
grace: Appropriately, the free unmerited love and favor of God, the spring and source of all the benefits men receive from him. ~Webster's 1828 Dictionary
The last answer here is basically the same as in number two. We receive 3c) knowledge of God because Jesus is making Him known. And really, what is knowing God if not grace? =)
John 1:1-18
Questions:
1. What five things is Jesus called in this passage?
2. What four things does He do?
3. What do we receive?
In this passage Jesus is called 1a) the Word. The language here is probably intended to mirror the opening words of Genesis, "In the beginning, God...". This Word is a very particular word, He is 1b) God. He is fully God, but He is not to be confused with the Father. They are two distinct persons who share the same nature. Next we read that He is 1c) life. Because He IS life, He can GIVE life. This fact is highlighted throughout John's gospel. And He is 1d) light. I am a fan of light, so I particularly enjoy the word picture here. Fifth, He is 1e) the Son. In the first verse, John made the distinction between two of the persons of the Godhead, now he introduces them to us as Father and Son. These names tell us something about how God interacts with Himself in the trinity. It kind of makes my head hurt to think about this for long...
As with most introductions, we meet the character(s). However, characters can be pretty boring if they're not doing something! The first "doing" thing in our passage is that Jesus was involved in creation. He 2a) "made all things". Sit and ponder that for a moment. Scientifically, we know more about our world than ever before. We have machines that allow us to dive deeper in the ocean, magnify tiny particles to visibility, and travel the globe in days! When I think about the quantity and diversity and variety in creation, I am amazed! But He wasn't just involved in making all this. Next we see that 2b) "the light shines in the darkness". Think back through the drama of the first three chapters of Genesis. God created the entire universe with His words. He made people to reflect His image on the earth in worship. Then in chapter three, Adam and Eve sinned. They rebelled against the Good God who created them and provided their every need. Darkness fell in their souls. But the Light is not just shining down from heaven. 2c) And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us. God the Son became a man. Again, my brain hurts when I think about this for very long. I think the last action in this passage is my favorite. Jesus 2d) makes the Father known. Because of Christ's work, I can KNOW God! I can KNOW the Holy Creator!
Finally, there are a few things that we receive. First, we receive 3a) the right to become children of God. We are adopted into His family. We have access to God as a Father! What a privilege! And we receive 3b) grace!
grace: Appropriately, the free unmerited love and favor of God, the spring and source of all the benefits men receive from him. ~Webster's 1828 Dictionary
The last answer here is basically the same as in number two. We receive 3c) knowledge of God because Jesus is making Him known. And really, what is knowing God if not grace? =)
Monday, July 21, 2014
Christmas in July-- Day 7
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made. In him was life, and the life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. He came as a witness, to bear witness about the light, that all might believe through him. He was not the light, but came to bear witness about the light. The true light, which enlightens everyone, was coming into the world. He was in the world, and the world was made through him, yet the world did not know him. He came to his own, and his own people did not receive him. But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God, who were born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God. And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth. (John bore witness about him, and cried out, "This was he of whom I said, 'He who comes after me ranks before me, because he was before me.'") And from his fullness we have all received, grace upon grace. For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. No one has ever seen God; the only God, who is at the Father's side, he has made him known.
John 1:1-18
Questions:
1. What five things is Jesus called in this passage?
2. What four things does He do?
3. What do we receive?
John 1:1-18
Questions:
1. What five things is Jesus called in this passage?
2. What four things does He do?
3. What do we receive?
Wednesday, July 16, 2014
Christmas in July-- Day 6
There shall come forth a shoot from the stump of Jesse, and a branch
from his roots shall bear fruit. And the Spirit of the LORD shall rest
upon him, the Spirit of wisdom and understanding, the Spirit of counsel
and might, the Spirit of knowledge and the fear of the LORD. And his
delight shall be in the fear of the LORD. He shall not judge by what his
eyes see, or decide disputes by what his ears hear, but with
righteousness he shall judge the poor, and decide with equity for the
meek of the earth; and he shall strike the earth with the rod of his
mouth, and with the breath of his lips he shall kill the wicked.
Righteousness shall be the belt of his waist, and faithfulness the belt
of his loins.
Isaiah 11:1-5
Questions:
1. Who was Jessee?
2. Who was David?
3. What did God promise David?
4. Who is this passage about?
5. What rests on him?
6. What is he doing in our passage?
7. Why is he doing this?
8. Why do His people not need to fear His judgment?
1) Jesse was David's father. You probably don't need me to tell you that 2) David was one of Israel's greatest kings. In 2 Samuel, when David decides that he wants to build God a house (temple), God turns it around and says that He will build David a house. God promises that David will have a descendant who will be king forever.
4) This passage in Isaiah is about Jesus. Immediately after we are told His earthly lineage, we are informed that 5) the Spirit of the LORD rests on Him. This is interesting because it implies that He ALWAYS has the Spirit. In the Old Testament, we read about the Spirit coming upon various characters, but it appears to be a temporary thing. For example, the Spirit "rushed" upon Samson in Judges.
After telling us about Jesus' lineage, and His character, Isaiah says that this man is 6) judging. He judges differently than we do. If I am selected as a juror, I have to see the evidence and listen to testimony, and then make a judgment. Jesus can see the intentions of the hearts of people, and it is on this basis that He judges. In our culture, judgment comes from elected or appointed officials, but in Isaiah's time, the king was the primary and ultimate judge. We know as New Covenant believers that Jesus is one person of the Triune God, therefore He is the King of kings. 7) It is because He is King that He is judging.
This last question was my favorite. Judgment is a scary thing. Especially as you begin to grasp the extent of your offense against a Holy God. And although we learn about Christ's character in the beginning of the passage, that is not a huge comfort when you realize that you are one of "the wicked". However, 8) because of Jesus' perfect life and death on my account, and because of God's goodness, I no longer have to fear His judgment. My sin was credited to, and paid for by Christ on the cross, and His holy life was credited to me. Because God is good, He will not charge twice for sin. I am secure in Christ! That's good news!
Isaiah 11:1-5
Questions:
1. Who was Jessee?
2. Who was David?
3. What did God promise David?
4. Who is this passage about?
5. What rests on him?
6. What is he doing in our passage?
7. Why is he doing this?
8. Why do His people not need to fear His judgment?
1) Jesse was David's father. You probably don't need me to tell you that 2) David was one of Israel's greatest kings. In 2 Samuel, when David decides that he wants to build God a house (temple), God turns it around and says that He will build David a house. God promises that David will have a descendant who will be king forever.
4) This passage in Isaiah is about Jesus. Immediately after we are told His earthly lineage, we are informed that 5) the Spirit of the LORD rests on Him. This is interesting because it implies that He ALWAYS has the Spirit. In the Old Testament, we read about the Spirit coming upon various characters, but it appears to be a temporary thing. For example, the Spirit "rushed" upon Samson in Judges.
After telling us about Jesus' lineage, and His character, Isaiah says that this man is 6) judging. He judges differently than we do. If I am selected as a juror, I have to see the evidence and listen to testimony, and then make a judgment. Jesus can see the intentions of the hearts of people, and it is on this basis that He judges. In our culture, judgment comes from elected or appointed officials, but in Isaiah's time, the king was the primary and ultimate judge. We know as New Covenant believers that Jesus is one person of the Triune God, therefore He is the King of kings. 7) It is because He is King that He is judging.
This last question was my favorite. Judgment is a scary thing. Especially as you begin to grasp the extent of your offense against a Holy God. And although we learn about Christ's character in the beginning of the passage, that is not a huge comfort when you realize that you are one of "the wicked". However, 8) because of Jesus' perfect life and death on my account, and because of God's goodness, I no longer have to fear His judgment. My sin was credited to, and paid for by Christ on the cross, and His holy life was credited to me. Because God is good, He will not charge twice for sin. I am secure in Christ! That's good news!
Tuesday, July 15, 2014
Christmas in July-- Day 5
There shall come forth a shoot from the stump of Jesse, and a branch from his roots shall bear fruit. And the Spirit of the LORD shall rest upon him, the Spirit of wisdom and understanding, the Spirit of counsel and might, the Spirit of knowledge and the fear of the LORD. And his delight shall be in the fear of the LORD. He shall not judge by what his eyes see, or decide disputes by what his ears hear, but with righteousness he shall judge the poor, and decide with equity for the meek of the earth; and he shall strike the earth with the rod of his mouth, and with the breath of his lips he shall kill the wicked. Righteousness shall be the belt of his waist, and faithfulness the belt of his loins.
Isaiah 11:1-5
Questions:
1. Who was Jessee?
2. Who was David?
3. What did God promise David?
4. Who is this passage about?
5. What rests on him?
6. What is he doing in our passage?
7. Why is he doing this?
8. Why do His people not need to fear His judgment?
Isaiah 11:1-5
Questions:
1. Who was Jessee?
2. Who was David?
3. What did God promise David?
4. Who is this passage about?
5. What rests on him?
6. What is he doing in our passage?
7. Why is he doing this?
8. Why do His people not need to fear His judgment?
Monday, July 14, 2014
Every Page
The Jesus Storybook Bible says that "every story whispers His name". I love that approach to the Bible stories, because the characters are just plain old sinful people like you and me. But what about the portions of Scripture that are not "stories"? As I did my devotions today, I saw, once again, how every page whispers His name.
Everyone who is arrogant in heart is an abomination to the LORD; be assured, he will not go unpunished.
Proverbs 16:5
I've been convicted recently of my own arrogant heart. And I imagine that you are very much like me. We have a million reasons (excuses) for why our arrogance is ok, or why it's not REALLY arrogance. But we are. We are still grasping to become our own little sovereigns. And God promises that my arrogance will not go unpunished. Not a happy thought...
But you see, Christ took my punishment on the cross. And He took yours, too, if you've placed your trust in Him.
But now the righteousness of God has been manifested apart from the law, although the Law and the Prophets bear witness to it-- the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all who believe. For there is no distinction: for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, whom God put forward as a propitiation by his blood, to be received by faith. This was to show God's righteousness, because in his divine forbearance he had passed over former sins. It was to show his righteousness at the present time, so that he might be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus.
Romans 3:21-26
As I continued reading, this verse soothed my soul.
By steadfast love and faithfulness iniquity is atoned for, and by the fear of the LORD one turns away from evil.
Proverbs 16:6
The wisdom literature is sometimes hard to read, and I don't know exactly what the human author had in mind when he penned this sentence. But as a believer after Christ's death and resurrection, this verse shouts of the steadfast love and faithfulness of the Savior by which MY INIQUITY is atoned for. Every page whispers His name. Every page. And sometimes it shouts! =)
Everyone who is arrogant in heart is an abomination to the LORD; be assured, he will not go unpunished.
Proverbs 16:5
I've been convicted recently of my own arrogant heart. And I imagine that you are very much like me. We have a million reasons (excuses) for why our arrogance is ok, or why it's not REALLY arrogance. But we are. We are still grasping to become our own little sovereigns. And God promises that my arrogance will not go unpunished. Not a happy thought...
But you see, Christ took my punishment on the cross. And He took yours, too, if you've placed your trust in Him.
But now the righteousness of God has been manifested apart from the law, although the Law and the Prophets bear witness to it-- the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all who believe. For there is no distinction: for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, whom God put forward as a propitiation by his blood, to be received by faith. This was to show God's righteousness, because in his divine forbearance he had passed over former sins. It was to show his righteousness at the present time, so that he might be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus.
Romans 3:21-26
As I continued reading, this verse soothed my soul.
By steadfast love and faithfulness iniquity is atoned for, and by the fear of the LORD one turns away from evil.
Proverbs 16:6
The wisdom literature is sometimes hard to read, and I don't know exactly what the human author had in mind when he penned this sentence. But as a believer after Christ's death and resurrection, this verse shouts of the steadfast love and faithfulness of the Savior by which MY INIQUITY is atoned for. Every page whispers His name. Every page. And sometimes it shouts! =)
Saturday, July 12, 2014
Christmas in July-- Day 4
But we see him who for a little while was made lower than the angels,
namely Jesus, crowned with glory and honor because of the suffering of
death, so that by the grace of God he might taste death for everyone.
For it was fitting that he, for whom and by whom all things exist, in
bringing many sons to glory, should make the founder of their salvation
perfect through suffering. For he who sanctifies and those who are
sanctified all have one source. That is why he is not ashamed to call
them brothers, saying, "I will tell of your name to my brothers; in the
midst of the congregation I will sing your praise." And again, "I will
put my trust in him." And again, "Behold, I and the children God has
given me." Since therefore the children share in flesh and blood, he
himself likewise partook of the same things, that through death he might
destroy the one who has the power of death, that is, the devil, and
deliver all those who through fear of death were subject to lifelong
slavery.
Hebrews 2:9-15
Questions:
1. Who is our text about?
2. Why is he crowned with glory and honor?
3. Can God die?
4. Who is Jesus?
5. Did Jesus die?
6. In our text, what two things did Jesus' death accomplish?
1) We see in the first sentence that this text is about Jesus. 2) He is "crowned with glory and honor" because of the suffering of death. There is something particular, something special, about Jesus' death. And the association of glory and honor with death reminded me of two other passages.
Paul, a servant of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle, set apart for the gospel of God, which he promised beforehand through his prophets in the holy Scriptures, concerning his Son, who was descended from David according to the flesh and was declared to be the Son of God in power according to the Spirit of holiness by his resurrection from the dead, Jesus Christ our Lord,
Romans 1:1-4
Then I saw in the right hand of him who was seated on the throne a scroll written within and on the back, sealed with seven seals. And I saw a strong angel proclaiming with a loud voice, "Who is worthy to open the scroll and break its seals?" And no one in heaven or on earth or under the earth was able to open the scroll or to look into it, and I began to weep loudly because no one was found worthy to open the scroll or to look into it. And one of the elders said to me, "Weep no more; behold, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has conquered, so that he can open the scroll and its seven seals." And between the throne and the four living creatures and among the elders I saw a Lamb standing, as though it had been slain, with seven horns and with seven eyes, which are the seven spirits of God sent out into all the earth.
Revelation 5:1-6
3) God cannot die. But we believe that Jesus is one person of the triune God, so we are faced with the question, "Who is Jesus?" 4) The church has said for centuries that Jesus is fully God, and fully man (two natures) in one person, and that His two natures are not confused, blended, or otherwise compromised. So, did Jesus die? Yes. The God-Man died.
This is where I think it gets REALLY interesting! This passage tells us that Jesus' death did two things. 1) First, it says that He destroyed the devil. This is one of those already/not yet statements. In a very real way, Satan was destroyed at the cross-- and he knows it. But we can still see his evil works in this fallen world. But second, Jesus' death sets us free from the fear of death! You can look around and see innumerable evidences of mankind's slavery to the fear of death. It is the great unknown. Something within us cries out that it is unnatural. Normal. But unnatural. However, in Christ, death loses its sting. Now believers are able to face the destruction of our mortal bodies because death WILL NOT WIN. When Christ returns, He will raise His people to eternal life even as He was raised! Come Lord Jesus!
Hebrews 2:9-15
Questions:
1. Who is our text about?
2. Why is he crowned with glory and honor?
3. Can God die?
4. Who is Jesus?
5. Did Jesus die?
6. In our text, what two things did Jesus' death accomplish?
1) We see in the first sentence that this text is about Jesus. 2) He is "crowned with glory and honor" because of the suffering of death. There is something particular, something special, about Jesus' death. And the association of glory and honor with death reminded me of two other passages.
Paul, a servant of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle, set apart for the gospel of God, which he promised beforehand through his prophets in the holy Scriptures, concerning his Son, who was descended from David according to the flesh and was declared to be the Son of God in power according to the Spirit of holiness by his resurrection from the dead, Jesus Christ our Lord,
Romans 1:1-4
Then I saw in the right hand of him who was seated on the throne a scroll written within and on the back, sealed with seven seals. And I saw a strong angel proclaiming with a loud voice, "Who is worthy to open the scroll and break its seals?" And no one in heaven or on earth or under the earth was able to open the scroll or to look into it, and I began to weep loudly because no one was found worthy to open the scroll or to look into it. And one of the elders said to me, "Weep no more; behold, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has conquered, so that he can open the scroll and its seven seals." And between the throne and the four living creatures and among the elders I saw a Lamb standing, as though it had been slain, with seven horns and with seven eyes, which are the seven spirits of God sent out into all the earth.
Revelation 5:1-6
3) God cannot die. But we believe that Jesus is one person of the triune God, so we are faced with the question, "Who is Jesus?" 4) The church has said for centuries that Jesus is fully God, and fully man (two natures) in one person, and that His two natures are not confused, blended, or otherwise compromised. So, did Jesus die? Yes. The God-Man died.
This is where I think it gets REALLY interesting! This passage tells us that Jesus' death did two things. 1) First, it says that He destroyed the devil. This is one of those already/not yet statements. In a very real way, Satan was destroyed at the cross-- and he knows it. But we can still see his evil works in this fallen world. But second, Jesus' death sets us free from the fear of death! You can look around and see innumerable evidences of mankind's slavery to the fear of death. It is the great unknown. Something within us cries out that it is unnatural. Normal. But unnatural. However, in Christ, death loses its sting. Now believers are able to face the destruction of our mortal bodies because death WILL NOT WIN. When Christ returns, He will raise His people to eternal life even as He was raised! Come Lord Jesus!
Friday, July 11, 2014
Christmas in July-- Day 3
But we see him who for a little while was made lower than the angels, namely Jesus, crowned with glory and honor because of the suffering of death, so that by the grace of God he might taste death for everyone. For it was fitting that he, for whom and by whom all things exist, in bringing many sons to glory, should make the founder of their salvation perfect through suffering. For he who sanctifies and those who are sanctified all have one source. That is why he is not ashamed to call them brothers, saying, "I will tell of your name to my brothers; in the midst of the congregation I will sing your praise." And again, "I will put my trust in him." And again, "Behold, I and the children God has given me." Since therefore the children share in flesh and blood, he himself likewise partook of the same things, that through death he might destroy the one who has the power of death, that is, the devil, and deliver all those who through fear of death were subject to lifelong slavery.
Hebrews 2:9-15
Questions:
1. Who is our text about?
2. Why is he crowned with glory and honor?
3. Can God die?
4. Who is Jesus?
5. Did Jesus die?
6. In our text, what two things did Jesus' death accomplish?
Hebrews 2:9-15
Questions:
1. Who is our text about?
2. Why is he crowned with glory and honor?
3. Can God die?
4. Who is Jesus?
5. Did Jesus die?
6. In our text, what two things did Jesus' death accomplish?
Thursday, July 10, 2014
A Little Less Talk and a Lot More Listen
I love to communicate. One of my favorite things is to learn to speak different languages. (I'm
only fluent in one, but I know snippets from half a dozen.) I read, I write, and I talk. A lot. With that in mind, it's probably not surprising that I don't have difficulty praying. I truly believe that God loves for me to talk to Him. I BELIEVE that He's never unable or unwilling to listen. And I believe that prayer is one of the means that He has ordained to accomplish His purpose in my life, the lives of others, and His world. It is not uncommon for me to settle in for my devotions, but get interrupted after I pray, and not get back around to reading the Bible.
Yesterday was one of those days. I sat down and prayed, but then I jumped into my day. I had every intention of getting back to my Bible... but it just didn't happen. When I walked into my bedroom for the night and saw my Bible bag on the bed, I thought of the Country song, "A Little Less Talk and a Lot More Action". I don't really think I need to pray less. But I need to believe as fervently in the essentiality of listen-time in the Word as I believe it of prayer. I need to BELIEVE that God's Word is more important than my words. So maybe a little less talk... but certainly MORE LISTEN!!!
Shout for joy in the LORD, O you righteous! Praise befits the upright. Give thanks to the LORD with the lyre; make melody to him with the harp of ten strings! Sing to him a new song; play skillfully on the strings, with loud shouts. For the word of the LORD is upright, and all his work is done in faithfulness. He loves righteousness and justice; the earth is full of the steadfast love of the LORD. By the word of the LORD the heavens were made, and by the breath of his mouth all their host. He gathers the waters of the sea as a heap; he puts the deeps in storehouses. Let all the earth fear the LORD; let all the inhabitants of the world stand in awe of him! For he spoke, and it came to be; he commanded, and it stood firm.
Psalms 33:1-9
Yesterday was one of those days. I sat down and prayed, but then I jumped into my day. I had every intention of getting back to my Bible... but it just didn't happen. When I walked into my bedroom for the night and saw my Bible bag on the bed, I thought of the Country song, "A Little Less Talk and a Lot More Action". I don't really think I need to pray less. But I need to believe as fervently in the essentiality of listen-time in the Word as I believe it of prayer. I need to BELIEVE that God's Word is more important than my words. So maybe a little less talk... but certainly MORE LISTEN!!!
Shout for joy in the LORD, O you righteous! Praise befits the upright. Give thanks to the LORD with the lyre; make melody to him with the harp of ten strings! Sing to him a new song; play skillfully on the strings, with loud shouts. For the word of the LORD is upright, and all his work is done in faithfulness. He loves righteousness and justice; the earth is full of the steadfast love of the LORD. By the word of the LORD the heavens were made, and by the breath of his mouth all their host. He gathers the waters of the sea as a heap; he puts the deeps in storehouses. Let all the earth fear the LORD; let all the inhabitants of the world stand in awe of him! For he spoke, and it came to be; he commanded, and it stood firm.
Psalms 33:1-9
Wednesday, July 9, 2014
Christmas in July-- Day 2
I mean that the heir, as long as he is a child, is no different from a
slave, though he is the owner of everything, but he is under guardians
and managers until the date set by his father. In the same way we also,
when we were children, were enslaved to the elementary principles of the
world. But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth his Son,
born of woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the
law, so that we might receive adoption as sons. And because you are
sons, God has sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, crying, "Abba!
Father!"
Galatians 4:1-6
Questions:
1. What do we learn about the heir in the first sentence?
2. What word is used to describe us in the next sentence?
3. Who came in the third sentence?
4. Why did he come?
5. What do we receive?
1) In the first sentence we learn that although we, as God's people, are "the heir", we have been under a guardian. If we look a bit further down in the passage, we see that the "guardian" was the elementary principles of the world, or the law. 2) In fact, the second sentence states that we were "enslaved". If you are at all familiar with the Old Testament law, you will know that it was incredibly HEAVY. Because of our sinful natures, we are utterly unable to adhere to it. But...
I love this sentence! But when the fullness of time had come, God... There was a particular time, in the succession of moments that are human history, chosen for the climax of God's redemptive plan! ...God sent forth his Son, born of a woman... 3) God the Son became a man. That absolutely boggles my mind! Infinity wrapped in finitude, omnipotence wrapped in a baby. ...born under the law... The God-Man, through whom the entire creation was made, subjected himself to the law in our place. 4) ...to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons. These days, most adoptions happen when the one being adopted is a child. But in New Testament times, a wealthy older man would adopt a grown man so that his estate didn't revert to the Roman government. So when a man was adopted, he received the full rights of a wealthy citizen. Any debts he may have had were paid, and he now had access to the resources of his adoptive father! 5) As a result of our adoption into God's family, we receive His very PRESENCE in the form of the Holy Spirit. He lives in us and teaches us to cry out to our new FATHER! It doesn't get much better than that! =)
Galatians 4:1-6
Questions:
1. What do we learn about the heir in the first sentence?
2. What word is used to describe us in the next sentence?
3. Who came in the third sentence?
4. Why did he come?
5. What do we receive?
1) In the first sentence we learn that although we, as God's people, are "the heir", we have been under a guardian. If we look a bit further down in the passage, we see that the "guardian" was the elementary principles of the world, or the law. 2) In fact, the second sentence states that we were "enslaved". If you are at all familiar with the Old Testament law, you will know that it was incredibly HEAVY. Because of our sinful natures, we are utterly unable to adhere to it. But...
I love this sentence! But when the fullness of time had come, God... There was a particular time, in the succession of moments that are human history, chosen for the climax of God's redemptive plan! ...God sent forth his Son, born of a woman... 3) God the Son became a man. That absolutely boggles my mind! Infinity wrapped in finitude, omnipotence wrapped in a baby. ...born under the law... The God-Man, through whom the entire creation was made, subjected himself to the law in our place. 4) ...to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons. These days, most adoptions happen when the one being adopted is a child. But in New Testament times, a wealthy older man would adopt a grown man so that his estate didn't revert to the Roman government. So when a man was adopted, he received the full rights of a wealthy citizen. Any debts he may have had were paid, and he now had access to the resources of his adoptive father! 5) As a result of our adoption into God's family, we receive His very PRESENCE in the form of the Holy Spirit. He lives in us and teaches us to cry out to our new FATHER! It doesn't get much better than that! =)
Tuesday, July 8, 2014
Christmas in July-- Day 1
Summer is really heating up here in Texas. And we have Blue Bell and swimming pools to help us tolerate the heat, but this is about the time when I start wishing for the north winds to blow down south. =) So I love the idea of "Christmas in July", because it brings to mind all the frosties and warm fuzzies that I so enjoy in the winter months!
I was reading through one of my journals recently and came across the devotions that I put together for my Christmas play kids last year. I was so encouraged thinking about Christ, that I thought I'd share. It will work like this: I'll post a passage and questions one day, and the next I'll post the answers (along with the big thoughts that strike me from the passage). =)
I mean that the heir, as long as he is a child, is no different from a slave, though he is the owner of everything, but he is under guardians and managers until the date set by his father. In the same way we also, when we were children, were enslaved to the elementary principles of the world. But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth his Son, born of woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons. And because you are sons, God has sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, crying, "Abba! Father!"
Galatians 4:1-6
Questions:
1. What do we learn about the heir in the first sentence?
2. What word is used to describe us in the next sentence?
3. Who came in the third sentence?
4. Why did he come?
5. What do we receive?
I was reading through one of my journals recently and came across the devotions that I put together for my Christmas play kids last year. I was so encouraged thinking about Christ, that I thought I'd share. It will work like this: I'll post a passage and questions one day, and the next I'll post the answers (along with the big thoughts that strike me from the passage). =)
I mean that the heir, as long as he is a child, is no different from a slave, though he is the owner of everything, but he is under guardians and managers until the date set by his father. In the same way we also, when we were children, were enslaved to the elementary principles of the world. But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth his Son, born of woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons. And because you are sons, God has sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, crying, "Abba! Father!"
Galatians 4:1-6
Questions:
1. What do we learn about the heir in the first sentence?
2. What word is used to describe us in the next sentence?
3. Who came in the third sentence?
4. Why did he come?
5. What do we receive?
Saturday, July 5, 2014
Sweeter than Honey
During storytime at our local library this week, the kids learned about ice cream. Our librarian made ice cream for the kids to eat during the story. Since my Crew is getting bigger, I no longer sit in the room with them. I sit out in the main library area and work on paperwork of various sorts. When storytime was over, my oldest brought me a cup of the ice cream and asked if I wanted some. I told her no thank you. She replied, "You mean you DO want some, but you don't."
I love sweet foods! The sweeter the better! But I've been working now for several weeks to reduce how much sweet stuff I consume. I explained that God's Word is supposed to be sweeter than honey to me, but that when I give my taste buds too much sweetness, it dulls the sweetness of the Word to me. And even yesterday, as I faced the July 4th feast with my family, I prayed that I would be able to enjoy the dessert as a gift, IN FAITH. I want the Word to be my greatest desire, sweeter than honey to my soul!
The law of the LORD is perfect, reviving the soul;
the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple;
the precepts of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart;
the commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes;
the fear of the LORD is clean, enduring forever;
the rules of the LORD are true, and righteous altogether.
More to be desired are they than gold, even much fine gold;
sweeter also than honey and drippings of the honeycomb.
Psalms 19:7-10
I love sweet foods! The sweeter the better! But I've been working now for several weeks to reduce how much sweet stuff I consume. I explained that God's Word is supposed to be sweeter than honey to me, but that when I give my taste buds too much sweetness, it dulls the sweetness of the Word to me. And even yesterday, as I faced the July 4th feast with my family, I prayed that I would be able to enjoy the dessert as a gift, IN FAITH. I want the Word to be my greatest desire, sweeter than honey to my soul!
The law of the LORD is perfect, reviving the soul;
the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple;
the precepts of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart;
the commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes;
the fear of the LORD is clean, enduring forever;
the rules of the LORD are true, and righteous altogether.
More to be desired are they than gold, even much fine gold;
sweeter also than honey and drippings of the honeycomb.
Psalms 19:7-10
Friday, July 4, 2014
Yesterday's Manna
And he humbled you and let you hunger and fed you with manna, which you did not know, nor did your fathers know, that he might make you know that man does not live by bread alone, but man lives by every word that comes from the mouth of the LORD.
Deuteronomy 8:3
If you aren't familiar with the story of the Exodus, here's how it goes. The Israelites were enslaved by Pharaoh in Egypt. God sent plagues through Moses and delivered them. He led them through the Red Sea and the desert. They grumbled and threatened to go back to Egypt continually. At times, God simply proved His faithfulness by graciously providing for their needs. At others, He punished their rebellion. The story of the manna is a small example of this larger narrative. The people of Israel complained that they had no food, so God sent them bread from heaven. When He did this, He laid down some very specific rules about when and how much they could gather. There was a certain amount per person, and they were supposed to gather only enough for one day, each day but the sixth. He also told them not to keep it overnight on any night except the sixth. On the sixth day they were supposed to gather and prepare enough for two days so that the seventh day could be a day of rest. But the Israelites didn't obey. Some gathered extra on a day other than the sixth. Some didn't gather enough on the sixth day, but went out the seventh looking for bread and came back empty.
I have to admit that I am very sympathetic to the Israelites. I like making enough when I cook to have leftovers. We actually have a "leftovers" day about once a week! =) I have a tendency to not prepare well for things that I know are coming and then be rushed and behind when "go time" rolls around. But this post is not primarily about practicalities. As Christians, the most important book for us is the Bible. We say we believe that it has all we need for life and godliness. (2 Peter 1:3) And I do LOVE the Word. It satisfies me in a way that nothing else can. But sometimes, when I've been satiated in a passage one day, I want to just live on that for a few days. It was so good! So rich! And I want to gorge on it. However, a passage RARELY has the same punch for me on day two that it had on day one. And whatever insights so impacted me "yesterday", often seem a bit weak "today". Maybe because the needs of my days vary dramatically.
As with the Israelites and the manna, God provides what we need for today, ON TODAY. Please don't try to live on yesterday's manna. Dig in to the Word today and feast on the GOODNESS God has for you! =)
For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.
Hebrews 4:12
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made. In him was life, and the life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.
John 1:1-5
My soul clings to the dust; give me life according to your word!
When I told of my ways, you answered me; teach me your statutes!
Make me understand the way of your precepts, and I will meditate on your wondrous works.
My soul melts away for sorrow; strengthen me according to your word!
Put false ways far from me and graciously teach me your law!
I have chosen the way of faithfulness; I set your rules before me.
I cling to your testimonies, O LORD; let me not be put to shame!
I will run in the way of your commandments when you enlarge my heart!
Psalms 119:25-32
Deuteronomy 8:3
If you aren't familiar with the story of the Exodus, here's how it goes. The Israelites were enslaved by Pharaoh in Egypt. God sent plagues through Moses and delivered them. He led them through the Red Sea and the desert. They grumbled and threatened to go back to Egypt continually. At times, God simply proved His faithfulness by graciously providing for their needs. At others, He punished their rebellion. The story of the manna is a small example of this larger narrative. The people of Israel complained that they had no food, so God sent them bread from heaven. When He did this, He laid down some very specific rules about when and how much they could gather. There was a certain amount per person, and they were supposed to gather only enough for one day, each day but the sixth. He also told them not to keep it overnight on any night except the sixth. On the sixth day they were supposed to gather and prepare enough for two days so that the seventh day could be a day of rest. But the Israelites didn't obey. Some gathered extra on a day other than the sixth. Some didn't gather enough on the sixth day, but went out the seventh looking for bread and came back empty.
I have to admit that I am very sympathetic to the Israelites. I like making enough when I cook to have leftovers. We actually have a "leftovers" day about once a week! =) I have a tendency to not prepare well for things that I know are coming and then be rushed and behind when "go time" rolls around. But this post is not primarily about practicalities. As Christians, the most important book for us is the Bible. We say we believe that it has all we need for life and godliness. (2 Peter 1:3) And I do LOVE the Word. It satisfies me in a way that nothing else can. But sometimes, when I've been satiated in a passage one day, I want to just live on that for a few days. It was so good! So rich! And I want to gorge on it. However, a passage RARELY has the same punch for me on day two that it had on day one. And whatever insights so impacted me "yesterday", often seem a bit weak "today". Maybe because the needs of my days vary dramatically.
As with the Israelites and the manna, God provides what we need for today, ON TODAY. Please don't try to live on yesterday's manna. Dig in to the Word today and feast on the GOODNESS God has for you! =)
For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.
Hebrews 4:12
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made. In him was life, and the life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.
John 1:1-5
My soul clings to the dust; give me life according to your word!
When I told of my ways, you answered me; teach me your statutes!
Make me understand the way of your precepts, and I will meditate on your wondrous works.
My soul melts away for sorrow; strengthen me according to your word!
Put false ways far from me and graciously teach me your law!
I have chosen the way of faithfulness; I set your rules before me.
I cling to your testimonies, O LORD; let me not be put to shame!
I will run in the way of your commandments when you enlarge my heart!
Psalms 119:25-32
Thursday, July 3, 2014
Good for the Soul
For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven: a time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted; a time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; a time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance;
Ecclesiastes 3:1-4
I feel like I am in a season of pruning. Over the past few months, the Lord, in His kindness, has been showing me things that I need to give up, or love less. He has been highlighting my weakness in all the things that I think I do really well. He has revealed my sometimes very critical spirit. All of this climaxed while I was at the TGC Women's conference last weekend. We were lying in bed the last night sharing what God had been showing us through the conference-- well, my roommates were sharing... I was reluctant to share how convicted I felt. I didn't want to admit to my arrogance. But my sisters pressed, and I confessed.
Sin is heavy. Too heavy for us to bear. Too dirty for us to clean ourselves up. And when God is stripping it away, it hurts! So confession can be good for the soul. Now, please don't walk into Sunday school this week and go into detailed confession. That's just awkward for everyone. However, with a few people who know you well (They already know you are a mess.), and who love you because you are together IN CHRIST, it actually lightens your burden.
Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray. Is anyone cheerful? Let him sing praise. Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer of faith will save the one who is sick, and the Lord will raise him up. And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven. Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working.
James 5:13-16
Ecclesiastes 3:1-4
I feel like I am in a season of pruning. Over the past few months, the Lord, in His kindness, has been showing me things that I need to give up, or love less. He has been highlighting my weakness in all the things that I think I do really well. He has revealed my sometimes very critical spirit. All of this climaxed while I was at the TGC Women's conference last weekend. We were lying in bed the last night sharing what God had been showing us through the conference-- well, my roommates were sharing... I was reluctant to share how convicted I felt. I didn't want to admit to my arrogance. But my sisters pressed, and I confessed.
Sin is heavy. Too heavy for us to bear. Too dirty for us to clean ourselves up. And when God is stripping it away, it hurts! So confession can be good for the soul. Now, please don't walk into Sunday school this week and go into detailed confession. That's just awkward for everyone. However, with a few people who know you well (They already know you are a mess.), and who love you because you are together IN CHRIST, it actually lightens your burden.
Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray. Is anyone cheerful? Let him sing praise. Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer of faith will save the one who is sick, and the Lord will raise him up. And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven. Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working.
James 5:13-16
Tuesday, July 1, 2014
In the Midst
I came across something that I had not seen before when I was reading Exodus earlier this year.
And they shall know that I am the LORD their God, who brought them out of the land of Egypt that I might dwell among them. I am the LORD their God.
Exodus 29:46
We know from earlier in the book that one reason God delivered the Israelites was to make a name for Himself. However, this verse gives us an additional purpose statement. Do you see the little word "that" after the word Egypt? God delivered the Israelites for the purpose of dwelling among them! This verse follows right after God has given the instructions for the tabernacle where He will dwell "in their midst".
And let them make me a sanctuary, that I may dwell in their midst.
Exodus 25:8
Then Christ comes in the gospels to dwell among us.
And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.
John 1:14
Later, when John sees the vision that he recounts in Revelation, he sees a mighty man in the midst of the lampstands. And we are told that these lampstands are the His church. Christ is seen as dwelling in the midst of the the church now! God with us! In our midst!
"Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel" (which means, God with us).
Matthew 1:23
And they shall know that I am the LORD their God, who brought them out of the land of Egypt that I might dwell among them. I am the LORD their God.
Exodus 29:46
We know from earlier in the book that one reason God delivered the Israelites was to make a name for Himself. However, this verse gives us an additional purpose statement. Do you see the little word "that" after the word Egypt? God delivered the Israelites for the purpose of dwelling among them! This verse follows right after God has given the instructions for the tabernacle where He will dwell "in their midst".
And let them make me a sanctuary, that I may dwell in their midst.
Exodus 25:8
Then Christ comes in the gospels to dwell among us.
And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.
John 1:14
Later, when John sees the vision that he recounts in Revelation, he sees a mighty man in the midst of the lampstands. And we are told that these lampstands are the His church. Christ is seen as dwelling in the midst of the the church now! God with us! In our midst!
"Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel" (which means, God with us).
Matthew 1:23
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