But Now I See!
June 2010 - Slavery
"...when you did not know God, you were slaves to those which by nature are no gods..." (Gal.4:9)
"...See to it that no one takes you captive by philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the world, and not according to Christ..." (Colossians 2:8)
"...and they may come to their senses and escape from the snare of the devil, after being captured by him to do his will..." (2 Tim.2:26)
"...it was for freedom that Christ set us free..." (Gal.5:1)
NO CLUE: When you're born into slavery, you don't know anything else. Explain why the average person in this world is unaware of the freedom that Christ can bring.
NO RIGHTS: A slave has no rights, but must do whatever the master says. What captures people and enslaves them? Why are people unable to get themselves out of this bondage?
NO TIME: Harsh slave drivers don't allow their slaves the time to look around and really understand their condition. Why are people who are in bondage not interested in liberation?
BUT NOT NO HOPE: How can people "come to their senses" and be freed?
Perhaps next month we'll touch on the subject of addictions.
May 2010 - Thanatos (death)
"...but from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat from it you will surely die..." (Gen.2:17)
"...because of one man's trespass, thanatos reigned..." (Rom.5:17)
"...the law of the Spirit of life has set you free in Christ Jesus from the law of sin and thanatos..." (Rom.8:2)
"...whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life. He does not come into judgement, but has passed from thanatos to life..." (John 5:24)
"...we have passed out of thanatos into life, because we love ... whoever does not love abides in thanatos..." (1 John 3:14).
"...desire when it has conceived gives birth to sin, and sin when it is fully grown brings forth thanatos..." (James 1:15).
"...the one who conquers will not be hurt by the second thanatos..." (Rev.2:11).
How would you define thanatos as it is used in these verses? Which better describes your existence, "passed from thanatos to life" or "abides in thanatos"? If it's desirable to pass from thanatos to life, why do so many abide in thanatos? If thanatos is the condition that all are born into, what is James 1:15 describing?
FACT: "...our old self was crucified with Him, in order that our body of sin might be done away with, so that we would no longer be slaves to sin, for he who has died is freed from sin..." (Rom:6:6). Explain all 4 parts of this verse (each section between commas). Describe your experience with all four.
ATTITUDE: "...consider yourselves to be dead to sin, but alive to God in Christ Jesus..." (Rom.6:11). Who is this scripture addressing? Why would this be necessary?
ACTION: "...do not let sin reign in your mortal body so that you obey its lusts, and do not go on presenting the members of your body to sin as instruments of unrighteousness, but present yourselves to God..." (Rom.6:12,13). "...to set the mind on the flesh is thanatos, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace..." (Rom.8:6). How might it be possible for sin to reign? What is your responsibility - what action is required of you?
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April 2010 - ABCs lead to Ds
"...the whole creation groans and suffers..." (Rom.8:22)
"...Why are you in Despair, O my soul ...Hope in God..." (Psalm 43:5)
"...And do not lead us into temptation, but Deliver us from evil..." (Matt.6:13)
As mentioned last month, the ABCs inevitably lead to Ds. This month we'll take a brief look at the possibilities.
---- STANDARD is DECAY, DISORDER and DESTRUCTION:
DECAY / DISORDER: The Second Law of Thermodynamics describes the Decay principle that prevails in our fallen world. Without outside input, everything moves toward Decay and increasing Disorder. How can a person who understands the 2nd Law of Thermodynamics accept the theory of evolution?
DESTRUCTION: As if the 2nd Law wasn't enough of a problem, Isaiah 21:2 says "...The treacherous one still deals treacherously, and the destroyer still destroys...". Even if a person chooses to deny the exixtence of destructive spiritual forces, how can anyone deny that treachery and Destruction are a part of our world?
---- SECULAR ABCs will DISTRACT, DISILLUSION (DISENCHANT), DISCOURAGE, DEPRESS, and ultimately lead to DESPAIR.
DISTRACT: We already talked about ATTRACTION and DISTRACTION.
DISILLUSION / DISENCHANT: A person gets Distracted from God's good intentions by Illusions or Enchantments. If that person finally realizes that they were Duped, they will become Disillusioned or Disenchanted. Why should this be considered a good thing? What should be the response?
DISCOURAGE: If people didn't like their illusions and enchantments, they wouldn't get so Discouraged when they can't have what they thought was within their grasp. Bummer. Isn't truth still true whether we accept it or not?
DEPRESSION: Unfortunately, many people don't respond correctly when Discouraged by Disillusionment or Disenchantment. The result is the currently rampant condition in our culture known as Depression. Depression has garnered a lot of attention and a lot of drug sales. After all, who wants to live in a hole? Do you think Depression is simply another medical condition?
DESPAIR: The last D resulting from living out the Secular ABCs (Assessment without revelation, Betrayal of truth, Confusion in life) is even worse than Depression. Despair leads to radical feelings and ultimately radical action. What was the answer to Despair found in Psalm 43:5?
---- GODLY ABCs lead to DISCOVERY, DELIVERANCE, AND DESTINY.
DISCOVERY: When a light goes on in a dark place, things can be Discovered that were there all the time, but hidden in the darkness. Asking, Believing, and Conforming are not a one time thing in the life of a Christian. What have you Discovered lately? How can you get light into the dark places of your life?
DELIVERANCE: The Old Testament is full of stories of Deliverance. People who had been Distracted, Discouraged, Depressed, and in Despair were Delivered to God's better way. Then Jesus walked the earth, Delivering people from demons, sickness, greed, etc., and finally offering Deliverance from Eternal Destruction to all who believed. From what do you need Deliverance? Do you want to made well?
DESTINY: I bring this word into the discussion with some hesitation. I don't wish to start a big debate on PreDestination. I'd just like you to ponder a few questions. Do you think Adam and Eve were Destined to leave the Garden? Did they not have a choice? What affect do the choices you make have on your future?
"...The Lord is not slow about His promise, as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing for any to perish but for all to come to repentance..." (2 Peter 3:9). Why doesn't an Almighty God get everything He wishes?
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March 2010 - ABCs
"...The good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth what is good; and the evil man out of the evil treasure brings forth what is evil; for his mouth speaks from that which fills his heart..." (Luke 6:45).
"...We are destroying speculations and every lofty thing raised up against the knowledge of God, and we are taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ..." (2 Cor.10:5).
"...Whatever is true ...honorable ...right ...pure ...lovely ...of good repute ...excellence ...worthy of praise ...dwell on these things..." (Phil.4:8).
Last month we talked about Distraction. This is one of 10 'D' words that describe our journey on this planet. Before I talk about the other 'D' words, I'd like to back up to A, B, and C. If we're looking to build lives of truth, we should start with the basics.
---- STANDARD ABCs:
A - Attitude
B - Behavior
C - Consequences
ATTITUDE: Everyone has an attitude. Attitudes can be good or bad. Attitudes are created within our minds as a result of receiving and processing various input. Does it matter which input a person receives? How do you decide which input is good and which input is evil?
<Attitude is very important and input has an effect. Philippians 4:8 would be a good filter for the things we are thinking on and imagining.> rt
BEHAVIOR: It's difficult to keep Attitudes secret. Sooner or later, all Attitudes lead to words or actions. How do the Attitudes that we adopt lead directly to Behavior? How can Behavior be changed?
<Our external actions are a result of our internal state. If your heart just isn't in something it will show. On the reverse when you are completely into something and fired up it's easy to get others into it also - attitudes can be caught, they are contagious. Behavior is changed through habits and be being disciplined but also through what you dwell on in your mind, what you are imagining.> rt
CONSEQUENCES: Attitudes start from the inside. Behavior gives expression to the Attitudes. Consequences are the result of Behavior. Consequences aren't the same as circumstances. The circumstances we face may arise for a variety of reasons. They may be a consequence of our Behavior, or of the Behavior of another. What should a person do if they see negative Consequences caused by their own behavior?
<Well I would say go back to the root cause and either stop doing the action that's causing problems or go back even further and correct the attitude.> rt
---- SECULAR ABCs:
A - Assessment
B - Betrayal
C - Confusion
ASSESSMENT: In a secular world, evaluation of life becomes relative and cultural. Attitudes and opinions are formed without the advantage of revelation.
BETRAYAL: Attitudes and Behavior that refuse to conform to God's standard are a Betrayal of His truth.
CONFUSION: The Consequence of betraying absolute truth will always be Confusion.
---- GODLY ABCs:
A - Ask
B - Believe
C - Conform
ASK: Never underestimate the value of Asking God what He thinks. Attitudes formed from a sincere desire to please the Creator will lead to appropriate Behavior.
BELIEVE: Asking is only the first step. To believe is to obey. Behavior will be appropriate.
CONFORM: When people Ask into Attitude, and Believe into Behavior, the Consequences are a Conforming to the good intentions and results that God has offered from the beginning of time.
NEXT: The Ds ...
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February 2010 - ATTRACTION / DISTRACTION
"...the thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy..." (John 10:10).
"...the Son of God appeared for this purpose, to destroy the works of the devil..." (1 John 3:8).
We think our situations are unique, as if we are destined to face things that no one else can understand. In reality, the differences are few, while the similarites are many. We all wrestle against the same deadly forces. The seeds of discontent are sown by the devil, causing a person to reject the good that they have and to embrace what will never satisfy.
ATTRACTION / DISTRACTION: In the Garden of Eden, the attraction was to God's good, and the distraction was to something other than God's intention. Did the Fall reverse the situation for all humanity? Is the attraction now to evil? Is it now necessary that a person be distracted to something better than natural sinful pleasure? Does the Christian 'born again' experience restore the original setting?
<The Fall reversed the situation for all of humanity and their is now attraction to evil. I think the Christian born again experience does restore the original setting. There is some of "the already and the not yet" here but deep down what we all want to most is to hear well done from our Father. I think sometimes Christians will overemphasize what does not seem to have happened yet and say I'm just a sinner saved by grace but the born again experiences is much more than fire insurance. God starts fixing us now and doesn't call us to just not sin, he says now take my hand and join me in changing the world. Through us following him he changes us from the inside out.> rt
THE BATTLE: "...do not grow weary of doing good..." (2Th.3:13). "...apart from Me you can do nothing..." (John 15:5). Can you trust yourself to be attracted to good and distracted from evil? What are the sources of attraction and distraction in your life? Is attraction or distraction your biggest problem? Can a person ever escape this battle? If we're instructed to 'not grow weary', why do we grow weary?
<We cannot trust ourselves, we need to be close with people who will call us out. I think most of us don't get caught in the big sins but instead just get bogged down with life, very easy to do in the 21st century. Put another way, what is the enemy of best? Good is an enemy of best. It's easy to fill our schedules with things that are good and but not actually get anywhere. We grow weary when we are out of tune with God, right? When there is a lack of purpose or when we get worried or anxious about our circumstances but He isn't alarmed by them. I am thinking of when Jonathan and his servant and routed the Philistines.> rt
YOUR MIND: "...taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ..." (2.Cor.10:3-5). Where does the battle for your soul take place? What happens when you discard lies and act on truth, even when it doesn't feel natural? What happens when you exchange the truth for a lie (Rom.1:25)?
<The battle for your soul takes place in the mind, that's why meditating on scripture is so important. CS Lewis makes the point that feelings follow actions. We need to obey regardless of feelings. When we exchange truth for a lie our minds are darkened.> rt
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January 2010 - GOOD / EVIL
"In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth..." (Gen.1:1)
Everyone has a concept of good and evil, even those who argue against the existence of absolute truth. Philosophically stating that truth is relative does not insulate a person from sensing that doing wrong is .... well ...wrong! The person who theoretically argues against evil's existence runs into a significant intellectual dilemma when they are touched by evil personally - and everyone gets touched.
THE BEGINNING: "...God created...and God saw that it was good..." (Gen.1:1,10,12,18,21,25). "...from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat..." (Gen.2:17). Why, in a good creation, would God create a tree from which He would forbid mankind to eat? What significance can be attributed to the nature of its fruit? Did Adam and Eve originally lack the knowledge of good and evil? Why would the knowledge of evil be a bad thing? How much knowledge of evil is broadcast into our world today?
<God put a forbidden tree in Eden because he gave man free will. Man can say yes or no to God, we make the decision. While this does mean we can mess things up, it also gives us the opportunity to be in relationship with God in a way that robots could not be. Love does not force its own way, it offers. Why is the knowledge of evil a bad thing? Well Paul echoes this when he says we are supposed to take captive every thought (2 Cor 10:5) and that it is shameful to mention what some do in secret (Eph 5:12). Proverbs 23:7 say that as a man thinks in his heart so he is. I would say that thoughts and imagination are so important because to a large degree your internal reality determines your external reality. For example, we all know someone who continually gets into bad situations and comes out smelling like a rose every time. I roomed with someone who was a master at this, I got to know him and it wasn't luck.> rt
THE FALL: "...the serpent was ...crafty ...he said ...Indeed has God said, 'You shall not eat from any tree'..." (Gen.3:1). "...the intent of man's heart is evil from his youth..." (Gen.8:21). "...in the world ...lust of the flesh ...lust of the eyes ...pride of life..." (1John.2:16). Why might the serpent have understood consequences that Adam and Eve did not? How could Adam and Eve have avoided the Fall? How is this scenario played out again and again in our world? How can you avoid choices that lead to death?
<Adam and Eve are somewhat naive before eating the fruit. How could the serpent have understood? Well there appears to be some collaboration with Satan here. Adam and Eve could have avoided the fall by trust and obedience. This scenario is played out again and again in our world, we trust our own reasoning and seek our own desires instead of seeking God who sees the big picture. There is also paradox here John 12:24-25 "Unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies...the man who loves his life will lose it, while the man who hates his life in this current world will keep it for eternal life". > rt
THE CHALLENGE: "...prepare to meet your God..." (Amos.4:12). "...seek Me that you may live..." (Amos.5:4). "...seek good and not evil, that you may live..." (Amos.5:14). "...Do not be wise in your own eyes; Fear the Lord and turn away from evil. It will be healing to your body..." (Prov.3:7,8). Why is the denial or trivialization of evil dangerous? How can a person seek good and not evil without depending upon their own wisdom? What do you think is the most important criteria in decision making?
<Yes the trivialization of evil is dangerous. I recently saw a clip of NT Wright where he talked about hell and man being made in the image of God. The point he makes that decisions matter, a person can say yes to God, or they can say no I do not want to worship you and have my life shaped by you. However, by saying no to God and turning away from him they are stepping away from their design or the term he uses is participating in their own dehumanization. Well the most important criteria for decision making is what does God want because he knows what is best. He sees every angle. How do we know this? One of my favorite verses on this is Jeremiah 29:13 "You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart". > rt
ADDITIONAL CONCEPT
Dualism is the belief that there are two equally strong opposing forces (gods) - good and evil. How has this worldview been adopted by Christians? Why should dualism be rejected in a Christian worldview?
<Yes, the term I'm just sinner saved by grace. The idea that only thing salvation means is fire insurance. 2 Corinthians 5:17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!>
2010 INTRODUCTION
Thanks to all of you who participated last year in our 'Thru the Bible'. I'm leaving the questions and answers on the website in the hopes that others will take the challenge and add to the insight.
For those who are ready for a different type of challenge, this year we'll be focus on Truth. This may involve less reading, but it will certainly require more reflection. There's no outline. There's no specific reading list. I'm trusting that God will lead us into a deeper understanding of His reality and our place in this world. I think we'll find that assuming our position in the Big Picture is infinitely more gratifying than the unending struggle to create and control our personal Little Pictures.
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December 31 - Revelation 1 to Revelation 22 <last post 01/31>
"...Blessed is he who reads and those who hear the words ...and heed the things which are written..." (Rev.1:3)
"...If anyone adds to them ...God will add ...plagues ...if anyone takes away from ...God will take away his part..." (Rev.22:19)
The last book of the Bible starts and ends with important verses. There's a blessing for hearing and heeding. There are significant problems for adding to or omitting from the Revelation of Jesus Christ to John the apostle. I feel like I'm on dangerous ground by giving partial quotes as scripture references. I adjure you to not be satisfied with anything less than reading the entire book of REVELATION. Hear it all. Don't add. Don't subtract. Be blessed!
In between the beginning and the end, there are messages to seven churches with comments and challenges. There are seven seals. There are seven plagues - seven bowls of wrath. There is a dragon, a beast, and a false prophet. There is the mark of the beast. There are two witnesses. There is a Lamb.
Participation questions only graze the surface of the deep truth of - REVELATION.
Your responses can be sent to drb@westbrancheyecare.com
1. SOME CLAIMS: "...the ruler of the kings of the earth..." (Rev.1:5). "...He has made us to be a kingdom..." Rev.1:6). "...alive forevermore ...the keys of death and of Hades..." (Rev.1:19). "...the mystery of God is finished..." (Rev.10:7). "...the kingdom of the world has become the Kingdom of our Lord ...and He will reign forever and ever..." (Rev.11:15). "...an eternal gospel ...Fear God, and give Him glory..." (Rev.14:6,7). Do the kings of the earth know who reigns? What will be the length of His reign? To whom will this be good news? To whom will it be bad news? How could your life improve at giving Him glory?
<The kings of the earth do not know who reigns or they would behave differently. He will reign for ever and ever and this is good news for those who follow Him now.> rt
2. SOME FEARFUL THINGS: "...torment ...forever and ever..." (Rev.14:11). "...the great winepress of the wrath of God..." (Rev.14:19). "...the beast ...and ...the false prophet ...thrown alive into the lake of fire which burns with brimstone..." (Rev.19:20). "...the devil ...thrown into the lake of fire..." (Rev.20:10). "...if anyone's name was not found written in the book of life, he was thrown into the lake of fire..." (Rev.20:15). "...soon take place ...for the time is near..." (Rev.1:1,3). Why do you think the once common topic of "Fire and Brimstone" has become relatively scarce in American churches? What difference do you think this change in focus makes?
<I think "Fire and Brimstone" has become scarce in America because Americans do not want to hear it and we tend to shop churches (consumer mentality). I do think love is much better motivator than fear and guilt (John 14:15 If you love me, you will obey what I command). I also believe the love of God cannot be grasped without understanding God's wrath.> rt
3. SOME EXCITING THINGS: "...Come out of her, my people, so that you will not participate in her sins and receive her plagues..." (Rev.18:4). "...And they overcame him because of the blood of the Lamb and because of the word of their testimony, and they did not love their life even when faced with death..." (Rev.12:11). "...Hallelujah! For the Lord our God, the Almighty reigns..." (Rev.19:6). "...a new heaven and a new earth..." (Rev.21:1). "...He who overcomes will inherit these things..." (Rev.21:7). How should these scriptures affect you attitude on a daily basis? What is the value of the word of your testimony?
<What is the value of your testimony? I tried putting this in my own words but I think Bill Johnson does a great job of answering this question. "The testimonies of God are the tools that equip us to walk in our purpose and demonstrate what He is like through the miraculous. First, they reveal the nature of God and how He does things-His ways. Secondly. this awareness of who God is creates an expectation in our hearts for God's ways to be manifested in our lives...Every record of what God has done in generations past is a promise of what He will do again in our lives"> rt
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December 27 - James to Revelation 8 <last post 1/9>
"...contend earnestly for the faith which was once for all handed down to the saints..." (Jude 3).
"...do the things that are pleasing in His sight..." (1John.3:22).
John tells us that "...the whole world lies in the power of the evil one..." (1John.5:19). Is life a continual struggle between evil and good? How does a person please God? How does a person live in the faith of the ages? We're almost through the entire Bible. Have we seen enough to make a difference in 2010?
Participation questions from this week's reading are related to - CONTEND.
Your responses can be sent to drb@westbrancheyecare.com
1. THE FLESH: "...abstain from fleshly lusts which wage war against the soul..." (1Pet.2:11). "...do not be conformed to ...former lusts (1Pet.1:14). "...having escaped the corruption that is in the world by lust..." (2Pet.1:4). "...lust gives birth to sin ...brings forth death..." (James.1:15). "...mockers ...following ...their own lusts..." (2 Pet.3:3). "...in the world ...lust of the flesh ...lust of the eyes ...pride of life..." (1John.2:16). "...bitter jealousy and selfish ambition ...earthly, natural, demonic..." (James.3:14,15). Why is lust a problem? Where does it come from? How can a person expect to overcome something with demonic origins?
<Proverbs 4:23 above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life. Lust is a problem because we are setting our hearts on something on something contrary to the will of God. How do we overcome? I would say guarding your thoughts and praying. > rt
2. TRIALS: "...various trials ...the testing of your faith produces endurance..." (James.1,2,3). "...persevere under trial ...receive the crown of life..." (James.1:12). "...he who has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin, so as to live ...no longer for the lusts of men, but for the will of God..." (1Pet.4:1,2). What is the value of suffering? How often must a person choose what they live for? What lusts get placed above 'the will of God' in your life?
<A person must choose what they live for every day. The value of suffering is that it costs us something. Gifts that cost the giver mean more. David said that he would not offer sacrifices to God that cost him nothing (2 Samuel 2:24). > rt
3. LIFE: "...confess ...pray ...be healed ...accomplish much..." (James.5:16). "...prepare your minds for action ...fix you hope completely on ...grace..." (1Pet.1:13). "...be holy ..in all your behavior.." (1Pet.1:15). "...grow in respect to salvation..." (1Pet.2:2). "...live in the spirit according to the will of God..." (1Pet.4:6). "...clothe yourselves with humility..." (1Pet.5:5). "...hope fixed on Him..." (1John.3:3). "...walking in truth ...love one another..." (2John 4,5). "...do not imitate what is evil, but what is good..." (3John 11). "...keep yourselves in the love of God..." (Jude 21). "...keep ...unstained by the world..." (James 1:27). "...die to sin and live to righteousness..." (1Pet.2:24). How do you think a person should 'contend for the faith'? Who do you think is responsible for confessing, preparing, fixing, growing, living, hoping, walking, doing, and keeping? Can these things be accomplished by human effort? Can these things be accomplished without human effort?
<Question is well asked and the answers are no and no. We cannot change ourselves but we put ourselves in positions where God can change us. Relationship not formulas.> rt
"...we know that we have come to know Him, if we keep His commandments..." (1John.2:3).
"...His commandments are not burdnsome..." (1John 5:3).
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December 20 - 2 Thessalonians to Hebrews <last post 1/2/10>
"...do not refuse Him who is speaking ...for our God is a consuming fire..." (Heb.12:25,29).
"...Christ ...having been offered once to bear the sins of many, will appear a second time for salvation..." (Heb.9:28).
The Jews thought they had a system in place to take care of sin, but the first coming of Christ was required to finally take care of it. Christians think they have a system in place to take care of salvation, but the second coming of Christ will finally take care of it.
"...the Lord Jesus will be revealed from heaven with His mighty angels in flaming fire ...to those who do not know God and to those who do not obey the gospel ...penalty of eternal destruction, away from the presence of the Lord..." (2Thes.1:7-9). This sobering passage of scripture refers to a day to come, a group of people, and eternity. Do we "know God"? Do we "obey the gospel"? Will the coming year be any different than the one that is almost over? "...all things are open and laid bare to the eyes of Him with whom we have to do..." (Heb.4:13). Ultimately, we all have to DO business with God.
As we move toward Christmas, our key word can be none other than - JESUS
Your comments can be sent to drb@westbrancheyecare.com
THE WORLD: "...the mystery of lawlessness is already at work..." (2Thes.2:7). "...a deluding influence so that they will believe what is false..." (2Thes.2:11). "...perverse and evil men..." (2Thes.3:2). "...strange doctrines ...myths and endless genealogies..." (1Tim.1:3,4). "...morbid interest in controversial questions and disputes about words..." (1Tim.6:4). "...wrangle about words ...useless and leads to the ruin of the hearers..." (2Tim.2:14). "...always learning and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth..." (2Tim.3:7). "...empty talkers and deceivers...worthless for any good deed..." (Titus 1:10,16). "...They always go astray in their heart, and they did not know My ways..." (Heb.3:10). "...hardened by the deceitfulness of sin..." (Heb.3:13). How has THE WORLD affected your relationship with God? Why do you think God "so loved the world that He gave"? What difference does it make when a Christian loves the world for the same reasons that God loves the world?
<I think God loved the world partly because we are born into sin, Adam and Eve had a choice but the rest of us did not. I think we should remember this when looking at others also, the base problem was not their fault and that God has had mercy on us.> rt
THE CHARGE: "...do not grow weary of doing good..." (2Thes.3:13). "...the goal ...a pure heart ...a good conscience..." (1Tim.1:5). "...the good fight ...keeping faith and a good conscience..." (1Tim.1:18,19). "...discipline yourself for the purpose of godliness..." (1Tim.4:7). "...persevere ...you will ensure salvation both for yourself and for those who hear you..." (1Tim.4:16). "...rich in good works ...generous ...take hold of that which is life indeed..." (1Tim.6:18,19). "...Guard ...the treasure which has been entrusted to you..." (2Tim.1:14). "...avoid worldly and empty chatter..." (2Tim.2:16). "...deny ungodliness and worldly desires ...live sensibly, righteously and godly in the present age...ready for every good deed..." (Titus.2:12, 3:1). "...engage in good deeds to meet pressing needs..." (Titus.3:14). "...pay much closer attention..." (Heb.2:1). "...cleanse you conscience from dead works to serve the living God..." (Heb.9:14). "...draw near with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith..." (Heb.10:22). Which of THE CHARGE verses speaks the loudest to your heart? Why? Memorize it and carry it with you into the new year.
<Titus 2:12 stands out to me. "teaches us to say "No" to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age". The present age being specifically 2010 America with all of its complexities.> rt
THE ASSURANCE: "...Christ Jesus, ...is our hope..." (1Tim.1:1). "...God ...desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth..." (1Tim.2:3,4). "...He is able to guard what I have entrusted to Him until that day..." (2Tim.1:12). "...If we endure, we will also reign with Him..." (2Tim.2:12). "...the firm foundation of God stands..." (2Tim.2:19). "...the Lord stood with me and strengthened me..." (2Tim.4:17). "...The Lord will rescue me from every evil deed, and will bring me safely to His heavenly kingdom..." (2Tim.4:18). "...He made the world ...and upholds all things by the word of His power..." (Heb.1:2,3). "...the hope set before us...a better hope ...a better covenant ...better promises..." (Heb.6:18, 7:19,22, 8:6). "...He is able ...to save forever those who draw near to God through Him..." (Heb.7:25). From what do you need to be saved? In what do you need to be strengthened? How can entrusting these things to God bring ASSURANCE?
<Entrusting these things to God brings assurance because God is always faithful. I love referenced 2 Timothy 4:17, and the verse before and after. Paul says that every one deserted him, betrayed would probably be just as accurate but that the Lord stood with him. Now that's a test that will separate the men from the boys. In my opinion, this is the exact same test David went through in 1 Samuel 30:6.> rt
I pray that Christmas stirs your heart to extreme gratitude this year. Joyfully remember the first coming of Jesus and eagerly anticipate His second coming.
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December 13 - Galations to 1 Thessalonians <last post 12/19>
"...the substance belongs to Christ..." (Col.2:17).
"...the word of God ...performs it's work in you who believe..." (1Thes.2:13)
The Old Testament foretold the coming Messiah. The Gospel accounts revealed the Messiah on earth, and the fulfillment of His purpose. The Epistles, mostly written by Paul, address the details of living in the New Covenant, "...our struggle ...against the rulers ...powers ...world forces of this darkness ...spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places..." (Eph.6:12). What is the CALL on our lives? What do we face? How shall we then live?
Participation questions from this week's reading are related to - THE CALL.
Your responses can be sent to drb@westbrancheyecare.com
1. GOOD: "...He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world..." (Eph.1:4). "...the Lord Jesus Christ ...gave Himself ...that He might rescue us from this present evil age..." (Gal.1:3,4). "...I died to the Law, so that I might live to God..." (Gal.2:19). "...Christ redeemed us from the curse of the Law ...so that we would receive the promise of the Spirit through faith..." (Gal.3:13,14). "...the Law ...our tutor to lead us to Christ..." (Gal.3:24). "...Christ is formed in you..." (Gal.4:19). "...for freedom ...Christ set us free..." (Gal.5:1). "...walk by the Spirit and you will not carry out the desire of the flesh..." (Gal.5:16). "...live by the Spirit ...walk by the Spirit..." (Gal.5:25). "...He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus..." (Phil1:6). "...in Him all things hold together..." (Col.1:17). What do you see in these verses? Why is it good news?
<We are not merely sinners saved by grace but are new creations, subjects in the Kingdom of Heaven.> rt
2. BAD: "...some distort the gospel of Christ..." (Gal.1:7). "...having begun by the Spirit, are you now being perfected by the flesh?..." (Gal.3:3). "...how is it that you turn back again to the weak and worthless elemental things..." (Gal.4:9). "...do not turn you freedom into an opportunity for the flesh..." (Gal.5:13). "...given ...over to sensuality..." (Eph. 4:19). "...corrupted in accordance with the lusts of deceit..." (Eph.4:22). "...enemies of the cross ...set their minds on earthly things..." (Phil.3:18,19). What dangers are presented in these verses? How have you faced these issues?
<The danger is that one can wander from the narrow path, a good start does not guarantee a good finish.> rt
3. AND SO: "...each one must examine his own work..." (Gal.6:4). "...sow ...flesh ...reap corruption ...sow ...spirit ...reap eternal life..." (Gal.6:8). "...no unwholesome word..." (Eph.4:29). "...no filthiness and silly talk, or coarse joking..." (Eph.5:4). "...making the most of your time..." (Eph.5:16). "...always giving thanks for all things..." (Eph.5:20). "...conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ..." (Phil.1:27). "...work out your salvation..." (Phil.2:12). "...be alert and sober..." (1Thes.5:6). "...excel still more..." (1Thes.4:1,10). "...lay hold of THAT ...reaching forward ...press on..." (Phil.3:12-14). "...be filled with the knowledge of His will..." (Col.1:9). "...keep seeking the things above..." (Col.3:1). "...set you mind on the things above..." (Col.3:2). These verses contain very direct advice for attitude and action. How do you think you're doing? In what areas are you currently being challenged? I took the liberty to capilize the word THAT in the Phi. 3:12-14 quote because I consider THAT to be critical to our AND SO. What difference does it make when you know THAT to which God has called you?
<You have to believe that you are doing what God has called you to do. If you are just attending a church, participating in a ministry etc because you like it, then you will quit when times get hard and you don't feel like doing it.> rt
4. RESULTS: "...the mystery of His will..." (Eph.1:9). "...the hope of His calling..." (Eph.1:18). "...the surpassing greatness of His power toward us..." (Eph.1:19). "...saved through faith..." (Eph.2:8). "...created ...for good works..." (Eph.2:10). "...being built together into a dwelling of God in the Spirit..." (Eph.2:22). "...strengthened with power through the Spirit in the inner man..." (Eph.3:16). "...filled up to all the fullness of God..." (Eph.3:19). "...united in spirit, intent on one purpose..." (Phil.2:2). What are the very real results of being His?
<The very real results is seeing things more and more from God's perspective and submitting to Christ to bring His Kingdom on earth. > rt
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December 6 - 1 Corinthians 5 to 2 Corinthians 13 <last post 12/14>
"...Our ambition ...to be pleasing to Him..." (2Cor.5:9)
"...He has committed to us the word of reconciliation..." (2Cor.5:19)
Have you experienced the excitement of the spiritual realm? Have you been zealous for the spiritual gifts? Have you earnestly desired the greater gifts? When we do, God always seems to lead us into the 1Cor.12:31, 13, 14:12 'more excellent way' of love and the building up of His church. God wants us to be a sweet aroma, "...the fragrance of Christ..." (2Cor.2:15) to the world in which we live.
In 2 Cor. 8 and 9, Paul challenges God's people to 'sow bountifully'. Perhaps the Spirit is prompting us to apply the words "...do this ...desire to do it ...finish doing it..." (2Cor.8:10,11) to the entirety of our walk with Him. What kind of aroma would we then present to the world?
Participation questions from this week's reading are related to - SELF CONTROL!
Your responses can be sent to drb@westbrancheyecare.com
1. SITUATION: "...flesh and blood cannot inherit the Kingdom of God..." (1Cor.15:50). "...the unrighteous will not inherit the Kingdom of God..." (1Cor.6:9). "...what matters is the keeping of the commandments of God..." (1Cor.7:19). "...you are saved if you hold fast the word..." (1Cor.15:2). "...not crave evil things ...nor ...act immorally ...nor try the Lord ...nor grumble..." (1Cor.10:6-10). "...not all things are profitable ...not all things edify..." (1Cor.1):23). What prevents people from experiencing the Kingdom of God? What prevents you from experiencing the Kingdom of God? In what areas do you struggle with self control?
<Responding to the desires of the flesh can keep us from experiencing God's Kingdom. > rt
2. DANGER: "...Satan ...will ...tempt you because of your lack of self control..." ( 1Cor.7:5). "...the serpent deceived ...by his craftiness ...led astray from the simplicity and purity of devotion to Christ..." (2Cor.11:3). "...forgive ...so that no advantage would be taken of us by Satan..." (2Cor.2:10,11). "...the god of this world has blinded the minds of the unbelieving..." (2Cor.4:4) "...do not be deceived, bad company ruins good morals..." (1Cor.15:33). "...do not be bound together with unbelievers..." (2Cor.6:14). Why is Satan able to tempt people? What situations allow him to get the upper hand in our lives? What happens when the evil one gains an advantage?
<I would say Satan can tempt us because we are fallen, but he was able to tempt Adam and Eve before they fell. When he gets an advantage we goof up and have regrets.> rt
3. CHALLENGE: "...I discipline my body, and make it my slave..." (1Cor.9:27). "...a man must examine himself..." (1Cor.11:28). "...Test yourselves to see if you are in the faith; examine yourselves..." ( 2Cor.13:5) . "...it is not he who commends himself that is approved, but he whom the Lord commends..." ( 2Cor.10:18). "...I will not be mastered by anything ...the body is not for immorality..." ( 1Cor.6:12,13). "...take care that ...liberty ...does not somehow become a stumbling block to the weak..." (1Cor.8:9). "...cleanse ourselves from all defilement of flesh and spirit..." (2Cor.7:1). How have you felt mastered by something? How can you improve, and be approved? How do you relate to Paul's thorn in the flesh (2Cor.12:7,8)? What encouragement can you get from the God's response to Paul's request?
<Yes, there are things that I have felt mastered by. How do we get beyond something that has mastered us? Well, I would say pray, get prayer, and fight it out. God's response to Paul's thorn in the flesh was "My grace is sufficient for you, my power is made perfect in weakness." So my encouragement is that it's okay to be weak in an area if I am relying on God. In fact, I may actually be better off if my weakness causes me to draw from God instead of my own strength. This would be why Paul says "For when I am weak, then I am strong". However, some discernment is helpful here because we may have thorns that God would like to remove.> rt
4. AND SO: "...be on the alert, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong. Let all that you do be done in love..." (1Cor.16:13,14). "...be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord..." (1Cor.15:58). "...Walk by faith, not by sight..." (2Cor.5:7). "...we do not war according to the flesh ...weapons divinely powerful ...destroying speculations and every lofty thing raised up against the knowledge of God ...every thought captive to the obedience of Christ..." (2Cor.10:4,5). Why should divinely powerful weapons be preferred to the weapons of this world? What speculations and lofty things have been raised up against the knowledge of God in our culture? How do captive, obedient thoughts relate to self control?
<Yes, divine weapons should be preferred to the powerful weapons of this world because they are more effective. Plus we don't see the "butterfly effect" or the whole picture like God does. Using force or the weapons of this world may look good in the natural but may actually be doing more harm than good. In answer to #2 there are people like Richard Dawkins who even deny His existence (see how well that worked out Russia). Captive, obedient thoughts along with the tongue are the key to self control. If you have anxious thoughts then you will impart anxiousness, if you have peace on the inside that's what will come out.> rt
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November 29 - Acts 27 to 1 Corinthians 4 <last post 12/8>
"...set apart for the gospel..." (Rom.1:1)
"...to bring about the obedience of faith..." (Rom.1:5)
Romans has a special place in my heart. My first small group Bible study went through this book back in 1974. This powerful book contains "The Roman's Road" verses which reveal the problem of sin (3:10-18, 3:23), the consquence of sin and God's gift (6:23), God's love (5:8), the step required (10:9,10:13), and the result (5:1, 8:1, 8:38-39).
Romans reveals the ongoing struggle of humanity with unbelief and the law of sin. As we walk through life, we all must face the reality of our own flesh.
Participation questions from this week's reading are related to - FLESH?
Your responses can be sent to drb@westbrancheyecare.com
1. BELIEF: "...the gospel ...the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes..." (Rom.1:16). "...perserverance in doing good ...eternal life..." (Rom.2:7). "...a man is justified by faith apart from works of the Law..." (Rom.3:28). "...God ...gives life ...calls into being that which does not exist..." (Rom.4:17). "...joy and peace in believing ...abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit..." (Rom.15:13). "...confess with you mouth ...believe in your heart ...you will be saved..." (Rom.10:9). Where does life come from? Where does joy and peace come from? Where does the power for salvation come from? Do you think that salvation is a one time event or an ongoing series of events?
<Where does life come from? According to the subtitle on my chapter 8 the Spirit. It does go on to say that sin brings death but those who are led by the Spirit will live (summary of Rom 8:12-17). Do I think that salvation is a one time event or ongoing series of events? Yes, I believe in both.> rt
2. UNBELIEF: "...suppress the truth in unrighteousness..." (Rom.1:18). "...futile in their speculation..." (Rom.1:25). "...depraved mind..." (Rom.1:28). "...selfish ambitions ...do not obey the truth ...wrath and indignation..." (Rom.2:8). What drives an unbeliever? What affect does unbelief have on others? What evidence of unbelief do you see in our society? How have we been a part of the problem?
<Sinful desires drive unbelievers (Rom 1:24). People following sinful desires will injure others in the process. The injuries could be anything small like cheating someone out a few dollars to something as large as genocide.> rt
3. FLESH: "...the mind set on the flesh is hostile toward God..." (Rom.8:7). "...those who are in the flesh cannot please God..." (Rom.8:8). "...mind ...serving the law of God ...flesh ...the law of sin..." (Rom.7:25). "...willing is present in me, but the doing of the good is not..." (Rom.7:18). "...sin ...deceived me ...killed me..." (Rom.7:11). Chapter 7 of Romans depicts the ageless struggle with the flesh. How have you wrestled with a 'law of God' vs 'law of sin' conflict? What is the result of losing this battle? What happens if you become deceived by sin? How can you determine where you mind is set?
<Yes we all deal with this and the results of losing may be small or large but not good either way. How can I determine where my mind is set? Asking God to reveal and help fix any blind spots.> rt
4. ACTION: "...put on the Lord Jesus Christ and make no provision for the flesh..." (Rom.13:14). "...present your bodies as a living and holy sacrifice..." (Rom.12:1). "...do not be conformed to this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind..." (Rom.12:2). "...consider yourselves to be dead to sin, but alive to God in Christ Jesus..." (Rom.6:11). "...do not let sin reign in your mortal body so that you obey its lusts..." (Rom.6:12). "...pursue the things which make for peace and the building up of one another..." (Rom.14:19). "...Abhor what is evil; cling to what is good..." (Rom.12:21). Read these action verses multiple times. Read them again. What do you hear? How are you challenged? How will you change because of these words? What difference does it make when you 'consider yourself dead to sin'?
<What I hear is that I not to live for myself, my focus should be on what God wants. Romans 8:5 Those who live according to the sinful nature have their minds set on what that nature desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires. Considering yourself dead to sin makes a huge difference. This is because what we say and think are a big deal as the term self fulfilling prophesy implies.> rt
5. KINGDOM REALITIES: "...God will judge the secrets of men..." (Rom.2:16). "...the Kingdom of God does not consist in words but in power..." (1Cor.4:20). "...faith comes from hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ..." (Rom.10:17). "...old self was crucified with Him ...no longer ...slaves to sin..." (Rom.6:6). "...sin shall not be master over you..." (Rom.6:14). Satan's only weapon is deceit. What difference does it make if a person believes or disbelieves the above quoted verses? Memorize one of the verses and see what difference it can make in your daily life!
<It makes a big difference, internal realities often terminate external realities.> rt
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November 22 - Acts 9 to Acts 26 <last post 11/30>
"...in Him we live and move and exist..." (Acts 17.28)
"...God has appointed you to know His will..." (Acts 22:14)
In the Gospel acounts Jesus revealed the Kingdom of God to a people who were very religious, but not very Kingdom minded. He walked with disciples who struggled to obtain His perspective
as He ministered to, and died for, a hurting world.
In the Acts of the Apostles, the Kingdom of God is still being revealed. The hurting world is still being ministered to by disciples who were finally empowered by the Holy Spirit.
Participation questions from this week's reading are related to - EMPOWERED?
Your responses can be sent to drb@westbrancheyecare.com
1. SAUL TO PAUL: "...a light from heaven ...seeing no one ...he could see nothing..." (Acts.9:3,7,8). "...he is a chosen instrument of Mine..." (Acts.9:15). "...he had seen the Lord on the road..." (Acts.9:27). Was Paul looking for an encounter with Jesus? How do you think a 'light from heaven' differed from light to which Paul was accustomed? Why was Paul's life so radically changed? Why should you consider yourself a 'chosen instrument'?
<I do not think Paul was looking for Jesus, it looks to me like God just chose him. The light Paul saw was "brighter than the sun" (Acts 26:13). Paul's life was changed because he had an encounter with God, similar to other stories in the Bible such as Jacob. I am chosen instrument because no one can understand unless God enables them to do so (John 6 and 1 Cor 12:3).> rt
2. THE HOLY SPIRIT: "...the Spirit of the Lord snatched Philip away..." (Acts 8:39). "...(Peter) fell into a trance..." (Acts.10:10). "...by the Spirit..." (Acts.11:28). "...forbidden by the Holy Spirit ...the Spirit of Jesus did not permit them..." (Acts 16:6,7). What difference did the Holy Spirit make in the lives of the apostles? Explain why this is needed in 2009. What are the risks? What are the benefits?
<Huge difference, without the Holy Spirit the early church would have died out instead of spreading like wildfire. Yes, this is needed in 2009. We can look too much to the world's systems such as marketing or our understanding and reasoning. In my opinion, they are good things to use but not the source of our strength. The risks of relying on the Holy Spirit (1) getting it wrong. This isn't a scientific formula we can conquer and manipulate, we are learners here. (2) We are not in control. Look at the life of Paul, quite an adventure but how much control/certainty did he have in life? Looks like almost none other than his relationship with God. (3) Looking foolish. In Acts 26, Paul is tells King Agrippa about his conversion experience. While he is still talking King Agrippa interupts him with "You are out of your mind, Paul!" (Acts 26:24). The benefits? Relationship with God and bearing fruit. What am I living for? What is my definition of success?> rt
3. ACTION: "...the man who fears Him and does what is right is welcome to Him..." (Acts.10:35). "...through Him everyone who believes is freed from all things..." (Acts.18:39). "...turn from these vain things to a living God..." (Acts.14:15). "...devoting himself completely to the word..." (Acts 18:5). "...did not shrink from declaring ....the whole purpose of God..." (Acts 20:27). "...maintain always a blameless conscience both before God and before men..." (Acts.24:16). "...ministering to the Lord and fasting..." (Acts.13:2). "...speaking boldly with reliance upon the Lord..." (Acts.14:3). Explain the how and why of being 'freed from all things'. What actions hinder empowerment? What actions foster empowerment? Why will the self-help philosophies of our age always fall short of empowering people to be what they were created to be?
<Well this ties in with question 2. The biggest things that keep me from stepping out are fear of messing up and fear of what others will think. What actions foster empowerment? Spiritual disciples, reading the Bible and biographies of people who have gotten close to God in the last 2000 years. There are many examples, St Anthony in the early church through George Fox, John Wesley, up to modern examples like John Wimber. Self help philosophies are good, but there's a limit to how much they can do. With God, there is no limit. > rt
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November 15 - John 11 to Acts 8 <last post 11/23>
"...if anyone walks in the day, he does not stumble, because he sees..." (John 11:9)
Most of you are familiar with the Sunday School song about the wise man building his house upon the rock. This comes from Matthew 7 and it teaches two things. First, it implies that storms will come. Second, it says that we choose the results of the storms by where we build our lives.
In a similar way, the gospel according to John reveals that we are choosing our daily walk. Will we stumble? Will we stand? The book of Acts then reveals the transformation of the disciples, from stumblers to steady Kingdom workers.
Participation questions from this week's reading are related to - STUMBLE?
Your responses can be sent to drb@westbrancheyecare.com
1. DARK: "...they loved the approval of men rather than the approval of God..." (John 12:43). "...he who walks in darkness does not know where he goes..." (John 12:35). "...from that day on they planned together to killl Him..." (John 11:53). "...the chief priests planned to put Lazarus to death also..." (John 12:10). "...Satan then entered him ...immediately ...it was night..." (John 13:27,30). Why do people stumble? When are you the least stable in your walk?
<We stumble because of the first verse referenced. Looking for the approval of men verses God.> rt
2. LIGHT: "...we must obey God rather than men...." (Acts.5:29). "...if you believe you will see the glory of God..." (John 11:40). "...he who see Me sees the One who sent Me..." (John 12:45). "...I am the way,, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through Me..." (John 14:6). "...abide in Me, and I in you ...apart from me you can do nothing..." (John 15:4,5). What are the advantages of seeing? What do you think it means to abide? What are the advantages of abiding?
<My opinion is that abiding is drawing close to God. The Bible uses many terms such as the presence of God, the secret place, dwelling in the shelter of the Most High, etc. I look at them all as saying the same thing. (JB if I am missing something feel free) Intimacy with the Father, we can do nothing in our own strength (John 15:5). The advantages of abiding are that we will bear fruit, not only that it's the only way we will bear fruit.> rt
<You've got it. There is a big difference between corresponding with someone and living with them. Abiding is living together. Abiding is sharing all. Abiding in Him is more than just thinking right thoughts about Him, or learning more and more about Him. It's much more intimate. It's taking up residence together.> jb
3. LIVING: "...bear much fruit, and so prove to be My disciples..." (John 15:8). "...in Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation..." (John 16:33) "...My kingdom is not of this world ...not of this realm..." (John 18:36). "...everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved..." (Acts.2:21). "...repent ...be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit..." (Acts.2:38). "...be saved from this perverse generation..." (Acts.2:40). "...repent ...times of refreshing may come..." (Acts.3:9). "...bless you by turning every one of yoou from your wicked ways..." (Acts.3:26). How can you prove to be a disciple of Jesus Christ? What will you face if you are a disciple? What does repentance accomplish?
<Bearing fruit is evidence of abiding and being a disciple. John 10:10 life to the full, I take this to mean really really good and also really really bad. Hebrews 11 is a strong picture.> rt
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November 8 - Luke 21 to John 10 <last post 11/15>
"...straighten up and lift up your heads ...your redemption is drawing near..." (Luke 21:28)
We've already read Matthew 13:58, which stated that "...He did not do many miracles there because of their unbelief..." The Greek word translated as unbelief in that verse is apistia, which can also be translated as disobedience. The same thing happens with the Greek word apeitheo. It is sometimes translated as disobedience and sometimes as unbelieving. Doesn't apeitheo make you think of our English word, apathy. It certainly is true that someone who doesn't care (apathy), will not believe and will not obey.
Participation questions from this week's reading are related to - APATHY?
Your responses can be sent to drb@westbrancheyecare.com
1. UNBELIEF / DISOBEDIENCE: "...foolish men ...slow of heart to believe in all that the prophets have spoken..." (Luke 24:25). "...why do doubts arise in your hearts..." (Luke 24:38). What is the answer for apathy according to Luke 24:45 and John 1:9? Can you understand the prophets and resist doubt without the help of Jesus? What does the failure to acknowledge Christ look like according to John 5:39:44? Why does this happen (John 6:63)?
<The answer is Luke 24:45 "Then he (Christ) opened their minds so they could understand the Scriptures". It does amaze me how people much smarter than I can read the Bible and say they just don't understand it. So understanding Scripture really is a supernatural thing, God has to open your mind so you can understand. According to John 5:39:44, the Scriptures point to Jesus and are not the end in themselves.> rt
2. BELIEF / OBEDIENCE: "...Because I said to you that I saw you under the fig tree, do you believe? You will see greater things than these..." (John 1:50) . "...whoever believes will in Him have eternal life..." (John 3:15) . "...he who hears My word, and believes Him who sent Me, has eternal life, and does not come into judgment, but has passed out of death into life..." (John 5:24). "...everyone who beholds the Son and believes in Him will have eternal life, and I Myself will raise him up on the last day..." (John 6:40). "...He who believes in Me, as the Scripture said, 'From his innermost being will flow rivers of living water.' ..." (John 7:38). "... he who follows Me will not walk in the darkness, but will have the Light of life..." (John 8:12). What are the long term advantages of not being apathetic about Jesus? What are the more immediate advantages? How does your apathy, or lack of apathy, affect others?
<Even the smallest decisions made today will affect where you are long term. The more immediate advantage is that eternal life starts now. Kingdom theology gives the framework for this or an easier way to put it is John 17:3 "Now this is eternal life: that they may know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent".> rt
3. THE FUTURE: "...the end does not follow immediately..." (Luke 21:9). "...an opportunity for your testimony..." (Luke 21:13). "...you will be hated by all because of me..." (Luke 21:17). "...by your endurance you will gain your lives..." (Luke 21:19). "...keep on alert..." (Luke 21:36). Does the future look bright or dim to you? What three things can weigh us down (Luke 21:34)? Pick one of the Luke 21 passages and explain how believing/obeying could change your attitude or perspective.
<The future looks bright to me. My happiness will not depend on my circumstances (Phil 4:11:13). Luke 21:34 indicates that hearts can be "weighed down with dissipation, drunkenness, and the anxieties of life". Obeying can change my attitude on the anxieties of life. If I obey regardless of whatever pressures are on me, the hold of outside pressures will diminish. My focus is no longer on them but on Him. I'll bet the more my focus shifts correctly, the more everything else will work itself out.> rt
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November 1 - Luke 6 to Luke 20 <last post 11/9>
"...the seed is the word of God ...hold it fast and bear fruit..." Luke 8:11,15)
"...hear the word of God and do it..." (Luke 8:21)
Reading through the four gospel accounts is a great opportunity to contrast commonly held beliefs with the teachings of Jesus. Apparently we have trouble keeping a firm grip on God's ordained realities. And so for the third week this year I've chosen REALITY as our key word.
Participation questions from this week's reading are related to - REALITY
Your responses can be sent to drb@westbrancheyecare.com
1. THE KINGDOM OF GOD: "...He began going around from one city and village to another, proclaiming and preaching the kingdom of God..." (Luke 8:1). "...as for you, go and proclaim everywhere the kingdom of God..." (Luke 9:60). "...say to them, The kingdom of God has come near to you..." (Luke 10:9). "...seek His kingdom ...your Father has chosen gladly to give you the kingdom..." (Luke 12:31). "...The kingdom of God is not coming with signs to be observed ...the kingdom of God is in your midst..." (Luke 17:20,21). "...they supposed that the kingdom of God was going to appear immediately..." (Luke 19:11). How is the kingdom of God different from the church? What happens when we get these two confused? Which have you observced as being proclaimed most often? Where are you in relation to the kingdom of God?
<The kingdom of God is within us. The church is a vehicle which should direct us to pursue a relationship with Christ. When confused, church can actually get in the way of a relationship with Him. I've often found Church to be proclaimed more often.> md
<The church is the body of Christ and the kingdom is God's rule and reign. One can submit to a certain church and just follow the party line but they're missing out. Well I have made some bigger decisions lately based not necessarily on what I want and what I think is best for me but instead based rather on trying to figure out what God wants. In relation to the Kingdom of God, I feel like I have a good basic theological understanding, but the question is more am I submitting. In order to get in on this I have been trying to give God the first of my day with my quiet time.> rt
<The Kingdom exists whether we acknowledge it or not. The Church, too, exists and is important to God. It's a real challenge to avoid confusion with respect to the Kingdom, the Church, and religious institutions.> jb
2. HYPOCRITES: "...the lawyers rejected God's purpose for themselves..." (Luke 7:30). "...lawyers ...have taken away the key of knowledge ...did not enter ...hindered those who were entering..." (Luke 11:52). "...the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy..." (Luke 12:1). Why was Jesus so hard on the religious leaders of His day? How would you define hypocrisy and where do you see it? Who in our culture hinders people from entering into God's reality? How have you been guilty of hypocrisy?
<The religious leaders had missed the mark. Their ministry suffered from "drifting". They had directionally shifted from true worship of the Lord to puffing up their own phylacteries. Hypocrisy is pretentiously looking down on others while participating and acting in a similar or even worse manner. Wherever people are there is hypocrisy.....the workplace, government, the church, etc. Both Christians and non Christians alike hinder people from entering God's reality.> md
<On the outside it appears Israel finally quit idol worshipping and disobediance and were finally getting their act together. However, Jesus tells the religous leaders of his day that they are worse than ever (Luke 10 it will be more bearable for Sodom, Tyre, and Sidon). I would say Jesus is so hard on the religous leaders because they focus on the outside (what man looks at), while God looks at the inside (Luke 11:39, 16:15). Also, these people were the ones studying the word of God and should have known better, we are in the same position. I have been full of hypocrisy by knowing and disobeying. Which is much worse than disobeying in ignorance.> rt
3. SIMPLE REALITIES: "...unless you repent, you will all likewise persish (Luke 13:3,5). "many, I tell you, will seek to enter and will not be able..." (Luke 13:24). "...God knows your hearts..." (Luke 16:15). "...at all times ...ought to pray and not to lose heart..." (Luke 18:1). "...distribute ...to the poor..." (Luke 18:22). Why Is repentance still necessary? Why has repentance become an unpopular subject in many American churches? Why is it important to remember both Luke 16:15 and Luke 18:1?
<"for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God" (Rom 3:23) Repentance involves admitting we are wrong....not a message many like to hear. God knows our heart. He knows our motives and our desires. In spite of this, He knows what is best for us. If we lose communication with God (prayer), we lose the source of what is truly good and are left to pursue life from an empty perspective.> md
<Repentance is messy, I think that's why it's unpopular with pastors and their people. Also, it's really hard for me to picture corporate repentance in an American church today. The only example I can think of is Jonathan Edwards and America was very different than. Today we don't live in tightly knit, isolated communities we have vast social networks and it's entirely possible that our church friends only get a very small percentage timewise. Because people on the whole don't really do life together anymore, it makes sense that we would see repentance more from an individual perspective and maybe home groups would be a better way to handle than from the pulpit? Maybe its late and I am just getting tired and off subject here. Luke 16:15 and 18:1 are related, if we are going opposite the direction God wants how can He answer our prayers?> rt
ADDITIONAL QUESTION: Reread the context of the often quoted "...ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you..." (Luke 11:5-9). How does the contextual reason for asking, seeking and knocking differ from the commonly used reason?
<I think this is important to think about. Who will the asking, seeking, and knocking benefit in Luke 11:5-9?> jb
<The contextual reason here is asking to benefit a friend that arrived unexpectedly.> rt
<Are ask, seek, and knock typically promoted as a means of helping others? Not lately. But isn't a lot of modern Christianity promoted from a selfish rather than service viewpoint?> jb
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October 25 - Mark 10 to Luke 5 <last post 11/1>
"...they left everything and followed Him..." (Luke 5:11)
As we move from the second to the third gospel account, we find many of the same events, but with more or less information. The account of Simon and Andrew immediately leaving everything to follow Jesus is quite brief in Mark 1:16-18. It almost seems strange that these men would do such a thing. The same event in Luke 5:1-11 gives a bit more information, explaining the reason that they were gripped with amazement by this man Jesus.
Jesus is still amazing people on planet earth, but each must choose whether they will follow or remain.
Participation questions from this week's reading are related to - LIFESTYLE
Your responses can be sent to drb@westbrancheyecare.com
1. CHOICE: You can choose God (Mk.10:27), God's purposes (Mk.10:32-35), servanthood (Mk.10:42-45), mercy (Mk.10:46-52), prayer for ALL nations (Mk.11:15-17), faith (Mk.11:21-23), forgiveness (Mk.11:25-26), the bigger/greater truth (Mk.12:19-24), to go unrecognized (Mk.12:38), to give (Mk.12:41-44), to endure (Mk.13:12,13), to be alert (Mk 13:33,35,37), and what God wants (Mk.14:36). Consider each of these options and their alternatives. Which are easy? Which are difficult? Which do you sense God offering to you at this time in your life?
<I am going to go with being alert (Mk 13:33,35,37) and what God wants (Mk 14:36). Peter, James, and John keep falling asleep during one of the most important prayer meetings. Romans 8:5 "Those who live according to the sinful nature have their minds set on what that nature desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires". I tend to focus on my problems and what the flesh desires and less on what God desires, as a result I tend to see my problems as bigger than they are and God as smaller than He is. Romans 8:6 "The mind of the sinful man is death, but the mind controlled by the Spirit is life and peace". Obviously my preference is for option 2.> rt
2. FILLED: The first part of Luke describes a number of people who were "filled with the Holy Spirit"; Luke 1:41 (Elizabeth), Luke 1:67 (Zacharias), Luke 2:25 (Simeon - upon him), Luke 3:22 (Jesus - upon Him), Luke 4:1 (Jesus - full of). We'll have a lot of opportunity in the coming weeks to see the difference that the Spirit makes in a a follower. If you're comfortable doing so, perhaps you could share a brief testimony of your experience with the third member of the Trinity.
<The first time I was able to see the Holy Spirit move occured 2-3 years ago. I traveled with small group of people a couple hours away to hear a pastor from NYC speak. He talked about Holy Spirit and then prayed for Him to come. Everyone has quiet and then the speaker asked if anyone got any impressions or felt any direction. TD, one of the people I came with was sitting a couple seats down from me and raised his hand. He asked if anyone had a problem with one of their toes. A man we did not know was sitting a few rows back and said this was him. He had been working and was electrocuted, all of the electricity came out through the end of his feet and if I remember correctly was missing the same toe TD had mentioned. Myself, and two or three others went over and prayed for him as he told us about all he was going through. After this, this a number of people got impressions and then someone would raise their hand and a few people would go over and pray with them. There was even a report the next day of a legally blind person having their vision healed.> rt
3. MISSION: Jesus proclaimed in Luke 4:21 that He was the fulfillment of Isaiah's prophesy: "...anointed ...to preach the gospel to the poor ...proclaim release to the captives ...recovery of sight to the blind ...set free those who are oppressed ...proclaim the favorable year of the Lord...." (Luke 4:18,19). Describe your understanding of the 'mission' of someone who has chosen God, God's purposes, and what God wants.
<I think the mission is best summed up by "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations". Disciples have relationship vertically with God and are therefore able to operate well horizontally with people and help them also get into relationship with Jesus. God wants people to be set free from addictions and to be healed spiritually, emotionally, and physically so they can operate as He originally designed. As disciples ourselves, maybe we focus too much on trying to get people into church instead of going out. Maybe a better way to focus would be on trying to bring God into our world outside of church, the workplace, the marketpace, etc. A good recent example is R.C. Sproul's book Stronger than Steel which tells the story of Wayne Alderson and Pittron. I really enjoyed reading this.> rt
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October 18 - Matthew 24 to Mark 9 <last post 10/25>""
"...take care what you listen to..." (Mark.4:24)
What you listen to impacts how you live! "...do not be afraid any longer, only believe..." (Mark.5:36). "...He wondered at their unbelief..." (Mark.6:6). "...neglecting the commandment of God, you hold to the tradition of men..." (Mark.7:8). "...Do you have a hardened heart..." (Mark 8:17)? "...Why does this generation seek for a sign..." (Mark.8:12). "...you are not setting your mind on God's interests, but man's..." (Mark.8:53)
Participation questions from this week's reading are related to - LISTEN
Your responses can be sent to drb@westbrancheyecare.com
1. THE SOWN WORD: Jesus' explanation of the parable of the four soils is found in Matt 13, Mark 4, and Luke 8. "...satan comes and takes away the word..." (Mark 4:15). "...no firm root..." (Mark 4:7). "...deceitfulness of riches ...desires ...choke the word..." (Mark 4:19). Which of these problems have affected you? Which seems to be your biggest danger? What have you, or should you, do about it? How could Hosea 10:12 apply to this situation?
<I fall into verse 19 worries of life, deceitfulness of wealth and other desires choke the seed. I tend to spend too much time with maintenance and not enough time pursuing goals and spending my life as I actually want to. If I were to look at my priorities verses how I actually spend my time they don't line up. I am making some progress but I feel like a lot of what I do is just reacting as life comes at me. Hosea 10:12 is the solution "seek the LORD, until he comes and showers righteousness on you". For me this means taking time to seek Him, maybe He should be getting my full attention at the first part of every day.> rt
2. RESISTING TEMPTATION: "...the spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak..." Matt.26:41). Jesus was in the wilderness being tempted by Satan and "...the angels were ministering to Him..." (Mark 1:13). How do you visualize this scene? Does it play out similarly in your life? How accurate were the old cartoons when they displayed a haloed character on one shoulder and pitch-fork wielding character on the other, with both trying to influence the person's decisions? How can you choose which voice you HEAR and HEED?
<Well there is right and wrong but a better picture is the straight and narrow path. You can veer off to the left (addictions) or the right (pharisee). How do you respond when the Devil gives you Bible verses telling you what to do? Wow, thank God we won't be tempted beyond what we can bear (1 Cor 10:13).> rt
3. THE END OF THE AGE: "...see to it that no one misleads you..." (Matt.24:4). "...false Christs and false prophets will show great signs and wonders so as to mislead, if possible, even the elect..." (Matt.24:24). Why does it matter to whom you are listening? "...be on the alert..." (Matt.24:24). "...the one who endures to the end, he will be saved..." (Matt.24:13). Why are staying alert and enduring difficult? Consider the criteria for Kingdom inheritance or eternal punishment found in Matt.25:31-46. Is this consistent with Old Testament emphasis? Is this consistent with Modern Church empasis?
<This is a tough verse my NIV translation says "to deceive the elect - if that were possible". My personal opinion is that if a speaker doesn't have it together, you may be very impressed for a while but eventually he will slip up and get busted, something will come out that just doesn't line up and cause you to think and say wait a minute. Of course, at this point some damage may already be done. Signs and wonders are supposed to follow God's people, Old Covenant and New. We are supposed to pursue Jesus and signs and wonders will follow. They are a byproduct, they are not the goal. I think Matthew 25:31-46 is consistent with the Old Testament but not so much with the modern church. I think a lot of modern churches are more interested in what happens Sunday morning and how do we make ourselves bigger (buildings, numbers, prestige) than actually doing what Jesus tells us
to do.> rt
ADDITIONAL QUESTION: The "...money given to the poor..." (Matt.26:9) statement appears logical according to principled living. The "...prepare Me for burial..." (Matt.26:12) reality goes beyond principles to Kingdom purpose. How do you think a person can avoid the legalism of Pharisaic principles which does not listen to Kingdom purposes?
<Well this goes back to the JB comment from a few weeks ago on being a disciple. Principles are great to live by if they are the solution then we don't need relationship with Jesus.> rt
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October 11 - Matthew 9 to Matthew 23 <last post 10/17>
"...I desire compassion and not sacrifice..." (Matt.9:13, 12:7)
Jesus didn't hesitate to point out the erroneous thinking and actions of the religious leaders of 2000 years ago. "...outwardly appear righteous ...inwardly ...full of hypocrisy and lawlessness..." (Matt.23:28). God intended to bless all the world through His people, but religious tradition and sacrifice became more central than compassion. Perhaps we have the same problem.
<Another way to put it - are our actions more like Jesus or more like the pharisees?> rt
Participation questions from this week's reading are related to - COMPASSION
Your responses can be sent to drb@westbrancheyecare.com
BAD TEACHING: "...heavy burdens ...on men's shoulders..." (Matt.23:4). "...shut off the kingdom of heaven from people..." (Matt.23:13). "...neglected the weightier provisions of the law; justice and mercy and faithfulness..." (Matt.23:23). What was the problem with the Pharisees' teaching (Matt.15:6,9)? Why was their teaching dangerous (Matt.16:12)? Name two activities of the evil one, the enemy of truth (Matt.13:19,25). How do these problems still occur? How can they be avoided?
<"These people honor me with thier lips, but their hearts are far from me. They worship me in vain; their teachings are but rules taught by men". Two activities of the evil one are to snatch away good seed and to plant bad seed among good seed (wheat and weeds). How can these problems be avoided? Applying God's word, seeking His Presence, and being around people who are close to God.> rt
GOOD TEACHING: "...Love the Lord you God will all your heart ...soul ...mind..." (Matt.22:37). "...love your neighbor as yourself..." (Matt.22:39). "...if you wish to enter into life, keep the commandments..." (Matt.19:17). "...if you wish to be complete, go and sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Me..." (Matt.19:21). What can cause an apparently sincere person like the rich young ruler to miss the kingdomt? "...the kingdom of God will be ...given to a people, producing the fruit of it..." (Matt.21:43). "...all things you ask in prayer, believing, you will receive..." (Matt.21:22). What 'tares' come into the teaching of Matt.21:22 when Matt.19:21 and Matt.21:43 are 'snatched' out of the teaching? Refer to Galations 5 for a list of kingdom fruit (5:22-23) and fleshly deeds (5:19-21).
<It just cost too much for the rich young ruler and he went away sad. Yes, the tare that comes in is God is here to bless you and whatever you want to do instead of you are here to bless God and whatever He
wants to do.> rt
COMPASSIONATE LIVING: A paralytic (Matt.9:1-8), a bleeding woman (Matt.9:20-22), a blind man (Matt.9:27-30), and a demon possessed girl (Matt.15:21-28) were healed. What was similar in each case? Which diseases and sicknesses were too big for healing (Matt.9:35)? What did Jesus expect of His disciples (Matt.10:1,7-8)? What did Jesus expect from the miracles (Matt.11:20)? Why weren't there many miracles in Jesus hometown (Matt.13:58)?
<The similar/key element in all of these healings is faith, lack of faith in Mat 13:58 is listed as the reason for decreased miracles in an area. Matt 9:35 "Preaching the good news of the kingdom and healing every disease and sickness", many passages use the word ALL, so no disease or sickness is a problem for God. Jesus tells his disciples to preach the kingdom of heaven is near, heal the sick, raise the dead, and drive out demons. Warfare, Satan has been defeated, we can now rob the strong man's house and have been commissioned to do so. (Also notice preaching the kingdom is tied in to each of these passages).> rt
<Many people presume that the absence of the miraculous can be remedied by faith alone. I think there is a second requirement - the presence (touch) of the Almighty. The authority of Jesus combined with human faith moves situations out of the hopelessness of this fallen world and into Kingdom reality. I wouldn't suggest tackling demons without the proper authority, but claiming to be a disciple while failing to go into all the world with the authority He gives us is not COMPASSIONATE LIVING.> jb
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October 4 - Haggai 1 to Matthew 8 <last post 10/13>
"...seek first His kingdom and His righteousness..." Matt.6:33
The last three prophetic books of the Old Testament are post-exilic, written during the return from the Babylonian captivity. The prophecies contain detailed Messianic references made many years before the birth of Jesus. After 400 'silent' years, the next leg of mankind's journery begins. "...the Lord whom you seek will suddenly come..." (Mal.3:1). Eden. Satan. Fall. Flood. Abraham. Egypt. Moses. Canaan. David. Babylon. Jesus.
At the beginning of the New Testament, the first 8 chapters of Matthew reveal numerous ways that the prophecies of old were being fulfilled: 1:22,23-Virgin birth, 2:5,6-Bethlehem, 2:15-Out of Egypt, 2:17,18-Weeping, 2:23-Nazarene, 3:3-Voice in wilderness, 4:14,15,16-Great light in Galilee, and 8:17-Took our infirmities. "...the record of the geneology of Jesus the Messiah, the son of David, the son of Abraham..." (Matt.1:1). [Approximate time line: Jesus (2000 yrs ago), David (3000 yrs ago), Abraham (4000 yrs ago)]
Participation questions from this week's reading are related to - FULFILL
Your responses can be sent to drb@westbrancheyecare.com
1. RESTORATION: "...consider your ways!..." (Hag.1:7). How does your life stack up to God's expectations? "...return to Me ...that I may return to you..." (Zech.1:3). What is God's ultimate preference? "...it will take place if you completely obey the Lord your God..." (Zech.6:15). "...not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit says the Lord of hosts..." (Zech.4:6). How can restoration happen? "...I will save you that you may become a blessing..." (Zech.8:12). How is Zech.8:12 similar to God's intentions for Abraham in Gen.18:17,18? What should restoration of God's intentions in a society create?
<"Surely Abraham will become a great and powerful nation, and all nations on earth will be blessed through him" God's intention is for societies is probably best reflected under the reign of Solomon.> rt
2. PROFILE: "...poor in spirit ...mourn(ers) ...gentle ...hunger and thirst for righteousness ...merciful ...pure in heart ...peacemakers ...persecuted..." (Matt.5:3-10). "...turn the other (cheek) ...coat also ...(2nd) mile..." (Matt. 5:39-41). Does this sound like the profile for success in our country? Would you rather have 'success' or God's blessing? What kingdom are you most concerned about?
<JB can you look up the term for meek verse 5? My understand is that this does not mean timid as we might suspect. I understand is a term typical used to describe strong animals such as oxen that have been broken / harnassed. I would rather have God's blessing and feel the Father looking down on me with pride than than 'success' in the eyes of the world or those around me. It's hard to live for God's approval instead of society's values. See Hebrews 11, how do my values stack up God's with people described there?> rt
<The Greek word in verse 5, praus, is used three times in the Bible (Matt.5:5, Matt.21:5, and 1Pet.3:4). You're correct in saying that timid would be a poor translation. Better descriptive words would be gentle or humble. Praus doesn't indicate a lack of power, but rather a lack of abusive, arrogant, pomp. It was a distinct attribute of Jesus. It should also be an attribute of His followers.> jb
3. ANSWERS: "...Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that proceeds out of the mouth of God..." (Matt.4:4). "...You shall not put the Lord your God to the test..." (Matt.4:7). "...You shall worship the Lord your God, and serve Him only... " (Matt.4:10). How are the answers that Jesus gave when faced with temptation still valuable today? 'Consider your ways' and explain the answer that you need to more readily use.
<Fasting, quieting the flesh, "Your body was meant to serve your spirit and not the other way around". Is this still valuable today? Yes, all of these are.> rt
4. FULFILL: Restored from captivity. Clear counter-cultural directives for normalcy. Answers for the inevitable temptations that come. How have God's purposes been fulfilled? How are God's purposes yet to be fulfilled? What do you seek first?
<Matt 6 Seek first His Kingdom or His rule and reign in your life. How have God's purposes been fulfilled? We only get glimpes now but we will see the big picture in the life to come.> rt
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September 27 - Joel 1 to Zephaniah 3 <last post 10/10>
"...seek the Lord ...seek righteousness, seek humility..." (Zeph.2:3)
"...wait for Me, declares the Lord..." (Zeph.3:8)
This week's readings covered 200 years and 7 prophets. God was doing His part to re-establish relationship with rebellious humanity. Nineveh was the capital of the Assyyrian empire. Jonah preached to them and they repented. 100 years later they were "...a bloody city, completely full of lies and pillage..." (Nahum.3:1). Nahum gave them another chance to repent, but withing 50 years the city was wiped out so thoroughly that its ruins weren't identified until 1845. What was God speaking to them? What is He speaking to us? Do we hear? Do we care?
Participation questions from this week's reading are related to - HUMILITY
Your responses can be sent to drb@westbrancheyecare.com
1. OFFER: "...return to Me with all your hearts ...fasting, weeping, and mourning ...rend your heart and not your garments..." (Joel 2:12,13). "...whoever calls on the name of the Lord will be delivered..." (Joel.2:32). "...seek Me that you may live..." (Amos.5:4,6,14). "...the Lord is in His holy temple, let all the earth be silent before Him..." (Hab.2:20). What does God want from people? What does God offer?
<God wants our hearts, relationship not a formula. He offers many more times that what we lose (Luke 18:30), this is true but also not a formula.> rt
2. PROMISE: "...I will pour out My Spirit on all mankind..." (Joel.2:32). "...the Lord God does nothing unless He reveals His secret counsel to His servants the prophets..." (Amos.3:7). "...Woe to those who scheme iniquity..." (Micah.2:1). "...the Lord will by no means leave the guilty unpunished..." (Nahum.1:3). "...the earth will be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the Lord..." (Hab.2:14). Why the Spirit? Why the prophets? Why the punishment? What will eventually fill the earth?
<Why the Spirit? Restoration of the way things were in the beginning? (Psalm 104:30 and Gen 1:2) JB you probably have a better way of summarizing this than I do. I think I am on to something here or maybe I am getting just part of it. Hab 2:14 "the earth will be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the LORD, as the waters cover the sea." The earth fixed, all brokeness undone, restoration of the way things were meant to be.> rt
3. NUDGING: "...lack of bread ...withheld the rain ...scorching wind and mildew ...caterpillar was devouring ...plague... (Amos.4:6-10). "...I am planning a calamity..." (Micah.2:3) Why did these 'natural' things happen (Amos.4:6,8,9,10,11)? "..behold I am about to put a plumb line in the midst of My people..." (Amos.7:8). What is a plumb line used for? Why is it valuable in the midst of God's people?
<These 'natural' things happened to help the people wake up and come to their senses. Plus why would God bless his people for going the wrong way? The plumb line is an accurate way to measure. If all of the people are crooked it would be easy to just compare oneself to each other.> rt
4. ACTION: "...let justice roll down like waters and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream..." (Amos.5:24) instead of "...trample the needy, do away with the humble of the land ...cheat with dishonest scales... (Amos.8:4,5). Which do you think God desires more, religious ritual or proper living? "...the day of the Lord draws near on all the nations. As you have done, it will be done for you. Your dealings will return on your own head..." (Ob.1:15). "...I know that on account of me this great storm has come upon you..." (Jonah.1:12). How do our actions affect our future and the future of others? "...what does the Lord require of you ...do justice ...love kindness ...walk humbly with your God..." (Micah.6:8). "...the law is ignored ...justice is never upheld ...justice comes out perverted..." (Hab.1:4). How can a person meet the Mic:6:8 requirements while living in a Hab.1:4 world?
<God desires proper living more than religous ritual. As we have been discussing, one can be very religious and very displeasing to the Lord. How can one meet the Mic 6:8 requirement while living in a Hab 1:4 world? Studying God's word, talking to God and asking him what he thinks, living to please God and his standards instead of man, not necessarily conforming to societal norms. "Conformance to a sick society is to be sick".> rt
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September 20 - Ezekiel 46 to Hosea 14 <last post 10/1>
"...there is a God in heaven who reveals mysteries..." (Dan.2:28)
"...the people who know their God will display strength and take action..." (Dan.11:32)
Daniel, as an exile, served under the reign of four different kings; Nebuchadnezzar, Belshazzar, Darius, and Cyrus. The book of Daniel was written around 536 B.C. but it foretold events that would occur well into the future. It accurately described the dominant world powers that would come; Medes, Persians, Greeks, Romans, the Divine Kingdom.
Participation questions from this week's reading are related to - INTERACTION
Your responses can be sent to drb@westbrancheyecare.com
1. WATCHING: "...He knows what is in the darkness, and the light dwells with Him..." (Dan.2:22). Is there any doubt in your mind that God sees all? "...the decree of the angelic watches..." (Dan.4:17). Is there a spiritual dimension beyond what you see, hear, smell, and touch? "...MENE, MENE, TEKEL, UPHARSIN..." (Dan.5:215). What will the balance reveal about you? How important is the work of Christ to you?
<"the watchers"...the realization of knowing that my actions are always in view by someone is sobering. How might I change "my ways" if I reflected on this truth each day...more than I want to admit> md
<Psalm 139 God sees everything. I know life is a test and everything we do is important. But analyzing every situation every response and trying to be perfect does not work. There is tension here, when God sees us he sees the blood of Jesus and our righteousness is "as filthy rags". At the same time our actions are very important. JB do you have a good insightful comment here?> rt
<Orthodoxy, Orthopraxy, Fellowship! If Orthodoxy (straight thinking) is your ultimate goal, you'll learn how to sit on the sidelines and judge everyone else's actions. You'll become a good Pharisee. If Orthopraxy (straight conduct) is your ultimate goal, you'll be tossed to and fro and suffer from the paralysis of analyzing your every action. The healthy way to achieve both Orthodoxy and Orthopraxy is the way of the disciple. Walking with Jesus in relationship has never prevented mistakes, but it's always been a safe way to grow. It's not a formula. It's the Fellowship with God that was lost in the Garden, but made possible again by the sacrificial, obedient Son of God.> jb
2. ACTING: "...The Lord gave Jehoiakim king of Judah into <Nebuchadnezzar's> hand..." (Dan.1:2). Who determines the outcome of global conflicts? "...Now God granted Daniel favor and compassion in the sight of the commander of the officials..." (Dan.1:9). "...As for these four youths, God gave them knowledge and intelligence in every branch of literature and wisdom; Daniel even understood all kinds of visions and dreams..." (Dan.1:17). Who determines the abilities and standing of people? Do you think that God is just watching, or watching and interacting in our world? How will your position on this question affect your daily walk and attitudes?
<"the most high God" gives and takes away...and bestows gifts and abilities. If I believe the Divine just watches and doesn't interact in the world I live in, I resort to believing I have complete control and therefore must control each and every situation.> md
<God gives abilities, situations, favor. Each day and situation comes from the Lord. I typically complain and see things as hassles and just want my life to easier. But is God trying to prepare me? ------- "Every father is pleased at the baby's first attempt to walk: no father would be satisfied with anything less than a firm, free, many walk in a grown-up son. In the same way, he said, 'God is easy to please but hard to satisfy.'...That is why we must not be surprised if we are in for a rough time. When a man turns to Christ and seems to be getting on pretty well... he often feels that it would now be natural if things went fairly smoothly...When trouble comes along...Because God is forcing him on, or up, to a higher level; putting him in situations where he will have to very much braver, or more patient, or more loving, than he ever dreamed of being before. It seems to us all unnecessary: but that is because we have not the slightest notion of the tremendous thing He means to make of us." CS Lewis Mere Christianity pages 202-205> rt
3. OVERRIDING: "...fire had no effect on the bodies of these men..." (Dan.3:27). "...My God sent His angel and shut the lions' mouths and they have not harmed me..." (Dan.6:22). These two events go well beyond the natural. The fire was extremely hot. The lions were fierce and hungry. What was the purpose of Nebuchadnezzar's insanity (Dan.4:17,26,35)? How have you witnessed God's overriding influence on this world?
<Purpose of insanity..."in order that the living may know that the Most High rules in the kingdom of men" v17, "come to know that Heaven rules" v26, Nebuchadnezzar eventually praised God "I blessed the Most High and praised and honored Him who lives forever:" v34 God's influence: "Remarkable providence" (title of an article in World Magazine) "A convention of the ELCA last month voted to ordain as clergy non-celibate U.S. homosexuals. No severe weather warnings were in place, and no tornado had come into downtown Minneapolis for a long time...90yrs...as delegates met, a tornado damaged the roof of the convention center where they were meeting and knocked the cross off the host church next door...." coincidence??> md
<Two words: western worldview. Even western Christians for the most part don't believe in the supernatural. In Acts, Paul gets bit by a poisonous snake, shakes it off into the fire and is fine, the people see it as a miracle. If that happened today we would come up with a rational explanation as to why it happened. We must have seen the snake wrong and it wasn't really the poisonous variety or it must have just bit something else and been all out of vemon, or insert different logical explanation here.> rt
4. PROBLEM / RESPONSE: "...they have set up kings but not by Me..." (Hos.8:4) "...all their kings have fallen, none of them calls on Me..." (Hos.7:7) "...they did not know that I healed them..." (Hos.11:3). "...I will go away ...until they acknowlege their guilt and seek My face..." (Hos.5:15). Are the problems of our day any different than 2500 years ago? "...let us press on to know the Lord..." (Hos.6:3). "...it is time to seek the Lord..." (Hos.10:12). "...take words with you and return to the Lord..." (Hos.14:2). When the going got tough, what did God's people do (Dan.2:17,18)? What is your attitude and response to the conditions of our world? "...because there is no faithfulness or kindness or knowledge of God in the land ...therefore the land mourns..." (Hos.4:,1,3). I believe that our land mourns, and that this verse helps us to understand the heart of God.
<Daniel and his companions sought mercy from the Lord. I often find myself frustrated or disgusted with the filth. I need to work on turning to the Lord and seeking what He would have me do...> md
<When the going got tough Daniel had his friends plead to God for mercy and an answer. The problems of our day are not that much different from 2,500 years ago. He is the answer, or as my friend put it "instead of seeking the answers themselves we should seek the one who has the answers".> rt
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September 13 - Ezekiel 25 to Ezekiel 45 <last post 9/27>
"...surely our transgressions and our sins are upon us, and we are rotting away in them; how then can we survive..." (Ez.33:10)
"...they come to you ...and hear your words, but they do not do them..." (Ez.33:31)
As the appointed watchman, Ezekiel saw many things: the vision of four figures, the vision of divine glory, visions of sin, judgement and slaughter, the vision of the valley of dry bones, the vision of a future invasion, the vision of the measuring rod and temple measurements, and the vision of the Glory of God filling the temple. I prefer to avoid the literal vs symbolic debate. I also prefer to avoid any end-time discussions. As usual, I prefer to take the practical, devotional approach. Can we see and hear God and His heart in these passages?
Participation questions from this week's reading are related to - SCATTERED
Your responses can be sent to drb@westbrancheyecare.com
1. RESPONSIBILITY O F SHEPHERDS: "...Woe to the shepherds ...who have been feeding themselves..." (Ez.34:2). What advice concerning proper shepherding can be gleaned from the list of errors recorded in Ez.34:4? Who can be trusted to properly shepherd (Ez.34:15,16)
<Strengthen the weak, heal the sick, mend the broken, bring back those driven away, and seek the lost. God, the true shepherd.> md
<The shepherds are accused because they did not stengthen the weak, heal the sick, or bind up the injured. God does not say I will take away the bad shepherds and give new ones, he says instead "my servant David". I am assuming this means Jesus.> rt
2. RESPONSIBILITY OF THE FLOCK: "...As for you, My flock, ...I will judge between one sheep and another..." (Ez.34:17). What advice about proper living can be gleaned from the 'sheep errors' recorded in Ez.34:18? How are you doing by these standards?
<'Oh may all who come behind us find us faithful; May the fire of our devotion light their way; May the footprints that we leave; Lead them to believe And the lives we live inspire them to obey.' Steve Green> md
<Ez 34:18, "Is it not good enough for you to feed on the good pasture? Must you also trample the rest of your pasture with your feet? Is it no enough for you to drink the clear water? Must you also muddy the rest with your feet?" I didn't completely understand this Based on verse 21 I would say it refers to hoarding but I am sure there is more here.> rt
<Is this a reference to how individualism threatens community?> jb
3. CONSEQUENCES: "...I will judge each of you according to his ways..." (Ez.33:20). "...I poured out My wrath..." (Ez. 36:18). What was God's judgement on Egypt (Ez.29:12)? Why (Ez.30:26)? What did God do to Israel (Ez.36:19)? What consequences do you think are evidence of God's interaction with nations today?
<Desolation (40years); Egyptians were scattered/dispersed. So they would know the Lord! Israel was also scattered and judged. Similar consequence can be seen. Destruction, a purging of "filthy" places, scattering of people. Can we read into some of our most recent destructive events in the U.S.? 9/11... Katrina... economic depression> md
<Are we a stubborn, rebellious people with eyes that do not see and minds that do not comprehend?> jb
<God's judgement on Egypt is to make the land of Egypt desolate and scatter the people so that they will know he is the LORD. God did the same to Israel. I just read "The Intercessor" about Rees Howell. It brings up Israel becoming a nation in 1948, the events surrounding,and how God was at work.> rt
4. HOPE: "...I had concern for My holy name..." (Ez. 36:21) Why does God intervene (Ez.37:28, 39:7)? How does God intervene (Ez.36:25-30, 37:14)? What hope is there for a stubborn and rebellious people in 2009?
<God intervenes so that his name will be holy among the nations. He intevenes with blessings as well. What hope is there? For hope I tend to look at it more as an individual, well I can choose right and capture His heart even when society is sick. God is my provider, he can provide for me even in times of famine.> rt
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September 6 - Ezekiel 5 to Ezekiel 24 <last post 9/24>
"...know that I am the Lord..." (77 times in the NASB Bible, with 63 of them in the book of Ezekiel)
"...I have set her at the center of the nations ...but she has rebelled..." (Ez.5:5,6)
According to biblical history, God establishes nations. People, though, are prone to rebellion. They not only shirk their national responsibility, but they lose sight of the Almighty. Are we any different? Are we fulfilling our responsibilities as a nation? as individuals? Are we rebelling? Do we know that He is Lord?
Ezekiel was appointed a watchman to "...hear a word ....warn them..." (Ez.3:17), to "...make known to Jerusalem her abominations..." (Ez.16:2), to "...cause her to know all her abominations..." (Ez.22:2). He was to "...tell them, whether they listen or not..." (Ez.3:11). I hope you're hearing the words and grasping the critical nature of the message.
Participation questions from this week's reading are related to - JUDGEMENT
Your responses can be sent to drb@westbrancheyecare.com
1. GOD'S PAIN: "...I have been hurt by their adulterous hearts..." ( Ez.6:9). How is this similar to Gen.6:6? How have you been guilty of causing God pain? What does Mt.23:37 reveal about God's heart? about the prevailing situation?
<In Genesis the Lord was "grieved in His heart" and "sorry that he had made man..." Times when I lapse in seeking his face and meeting with Him. When I allow anxiousness to undermine His faithfulness to me. Matthew reveals that God wants to pull us close and shield us in his protective arms. We have to be willing.> md
<Have I caused God pain? Yes, doing what I'm not supposed to do and not doing what I should. I think what is the worst is looking back and seeing how God set up me up in a situation and I didn't come through. In reference to the verses, God's desire is to take us where he can love on us and our will (looks good to us) actually takes the opposite turn.> rt
2. MAN'S PLIGHT: "...their iniquity has become an occasion of stumbling..." (Ez.7:17). "...they will seek peace, but there will be none..." (Ez.7:25). "...the law will be lost..." (Ez.7:26). "...you have not walked in My statutes ...have acted according to the ordinances of the nations around you..." (Ez.11:12). "...they hope for the fulfillment of their word..." (Ez.13:6). "...set up their idols in their hearts..." (Ez.14:3). Is it possible to find peace and/or keep from stumbling when God's truth is lost? Why do people follow the ways of the nations around them rather than walking in His statutes? Describe how an idol gets set up in a heart!
<The appearance of peace, maybe, but the peace "which surpasses all understanding" (Phil 4:7), not a chance. It's man's natural bent/curse from the fall to drift away from God's command and toward the way of "the nations" or culture. It happens without much effort. When our vision is solely horizontal and lacks vertical focus, the mind and heart start construction projects.> md
<I like MD's comments horizontal vs vertical. How do we keep idols from being set up? Be careful little eyes what you see.> rt
3. GOD'S JUDGEMENT: "...I will judge you according to your ways..." (Ez.7:3). "...according to your ways and ...your deeds I will judge you..." (Ez.24:14). Chapter 9 is the vision of slaughter. Who is spared? Who is not spared? Where does the slaughter start? Why the slaughter? Did you notice the references to Sodom in chapter 16? According to traditional thinking, why was Sodom judged? What does Ez.16:49 give for reasons?
<The marked are spared. Those who "sigh and cry over all the abominations that are done..." Of those not marked, even the elderly, women, and children are not spared. The slaughter starts in the sanctuary, the church. Traditionally Sodom was said to be full of wickedness and sexual perversion. Ezekiel sights "pride, fullness of food, abundance of idleness...", and ignoring the poor and needy.> md
<Those who grieve and lament over the detestable practives are spared. The slaughter is because God's people stepped away from him. "Begin at my sanctuary", obviously there is a reason for God starting here. I don't have any good theories other than the obvious. It is interesting to see "they did not help the poor and needy" as a listed sin of Sodom.> rt
4. GOD'S HEART: People have said that the God of the Old Testament is a God of wrath, but "...the soul who sins will die.." (Ez.18:4) doesn't reveal the whole story. What does Ez.18:23 imply about God's heart? "...turn ..and live..." (Ez.18:23). "...cast away ...your transgressions ...make for yourselves a new heart and a new spirit..." (Ez.18:31). "...repent and live..." (Ez.18:32). How is the Old different than the New?
<Paradox! Both sides are true, overstating one side can paint an inaccurate picture. Truth is found "by maintaining a tension between two opposite lines of teaching" (Foster). The Old is different than the New in that it focuses on God's judgement. God's grace cannot be understand without an understanding of His wrath.> rt
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August 30 - Jeremiah 42 to Ezekiel 4 <last post 9/16>
"...cursed be the one who does the Lord's work negligently..." (Jer.48:10)
This verse was spoken to Moab, the descendents of Lot, but it isn't a stretch to say that it applies to all people. A common of our day is that each person has the right to say and do whatever they want. Promoting this 'delusion' doesn't change reality. If life is a gift from God, He has every right to place expectations on it. He can expect responsible behavior. He can give the marching orders.
Participation questions from this week's reading are related to - HEARING
Your responses can be sent to drb@westbrancheyecare.com
1. HEARING WHAT WE WANT TO HEAR:
"...whether it is pleasant or unpleasant, we will listen to the Lord our God..." (Jer.42.6) "...You are telling a lie! The Lord has not sent you..." (Jer.43:2) It's interesting how quickly people can go from 42:6 to 43:2. Reread this section of scripture and comment on how and why this happens. How can you avoid falling into this trap?
<How do we avoid this? Well the easy out is don't ask for God for His opinion. We do the same thing. We pray to God to know His will and then see promptings and Oh God not that, I really don't want to do that, and then rationalize a number of ways why it couldn't be God or why I'll obey later or next time. The situation passes and then feel awful. Or maybe it's just me confessing here. How else do you avoid this? Galations 1:10 or Galations 2:20 or I'm sure a number of other verses.> rt
2. HEARING WHAT GOD IS SAYING:
"...in vain have you multiplied remedies; there is no healing for you..." (Jer.46:11). "...they do not stand because the Lord has thrust them down..." (Jer.46:15). "...I will correct you properly and by no means leave you unpunished..." (Jer.46:28). "...because of your trust in your own achievements and treasures, even you yourself will be captured..." (Jer.48:7). "...the arrogance of your heart has deceived you..." (Jer.49:16). "...the arrogant one will stumble and fall..." (Jer.50:32). "...calamity has befallen..." (Jer.44:23). Do things happen by chance? What are the two extremes of belief regarding calamity's origin? How can a person find a realistic balance between thes extremes?
<The two extremes are one it's natural and God has nothing to do with it or two it's God's wrath. Things do not happen by chance. A balance is found with Romans 8:28 ALL things work together for the good of those who lover him. Even things that originate from the enemy, God will use for good. Like Joseph and David, the things that come against us have the possibility of making us stronger.> rt
3. HEARING THE ROLE OF LEADERSHIP:
"...my people have become lost sheep. Their shepherds have led them astray..." (Jer.50:6). The law is no more ...prophets find no vision from the Lord..." (Lam.2:10). "...they have not exposed your iniquity so as to restore you from captivity..." (Lam.2:14) "...let us examine and probe our ways, and let us return to the Lord..." (Lam.3:40). How do leaders in 2009 compare to leaders in Jeremiah's day? What responsibilities do individuals have, regardless of the quality of current leadership?
<Individuals have the responsibility of seeking God for themselves, we can go direct to God for direction.> rt
4. HEARING THE HOPE:
"...This I recall to my mind, Therefore I have hope. The Lord's lovingkindnesses indeed never cease, For His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; Great is Your faithfulness. "The Lord is my portion," says my soul, "Therefore I have hope in Him." The Lord is good to those who wait for Him, To the person who seeks Him. It is good that he waits silently For the salvation of the Lord..." (Lam.3:21-26). Jeremiah is known as the weeping prophet, the lamenter, and yet these verses show that he also saw a ray of hope. Does this hope exist for us? What is God's part and what is our part?
<Yes, there is always hope. Our part is to seek, wait, and obey. It amazes me the number of verses that say be still and wait for the Lord or be still and know that He is God. God's part is to turn the situations. A better way to put it may be we are responsible for obeying and God is responsible for the results.> rt
<Did you combine lovingkindnesses on purpose?> rt
<That's the way it appears in the NASB> jb
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August 23 - Jeremiah 18 to Jeremiah 41 <last post 9/15>
"...they have stumbled from their ways, from the ancient paths, to walk in bypaths, not on a highway..." (Jer.18:15)
"...the entire calamity ...because they have stiffened their necks so as not to heed My words..." (Jer.19:15)
If you've ever been lost when trying to reach a destination, you know the consequences of straying from the highway. If you feel disoriented in your life journey, you may have stumbled onto a bypath.
Participation questions from this week's reading are related to - LEADERSHIP
Your responses can be sent to drb@westbrancheyecare.com
1. GOOD LEADERSHIP
"...Do justice and righteousness ...do not mistreat ...the stranger, the orphan, or the widow..." (Jer.22:3) "...Administer justice every morning..." (Jer.21:12) To whom and how often should justice be done? "...speak ...all the words that I have commanded you to speak ...Do not omit a word!..." (Jer.26:2) What was the response to Jeremiah when he followed God's command (Jer.26:8)? What response do you expect for your obedience? "...Seek the welfare of the city where I have sent you ...in its welfare you will have welfare..." (Jer.29:7) How might this apply to your life today?
<The response for Jeremiah's obediance was the people wanted to seize and kill him. Talk about discouraging. I do think Jer 29:7 also applies for today. Where you live will have an effect on you.> rt
2. BAD LEADERSHIP
"...Woe to the shepherds who are destroying and scattering the sheep of My pasture...both prophet and priest are polluted ...committing of adultery and walking in falsehood ...leading you into futility; they speak a vision of their own imagination ...reckless boasting ...perverting the words of the living God..." (Jer.23:1,11,14,32,36) Who is being targeted by these verses, and for what reasons? Read Jer.28 and imagine yourself in Hananiah's time. Would you like the words he was speaking? Did he sound sure of himself? What was the problem (Jer.28:15)? "...he has preached rebellion against the Lord..." (Jer.29:32) When is 'positive confession' actually rebellion?
<You have got to wonder what was Hananiah thinking? What would compel someone to just make things up. Did he just want it to be true so hard that he closed his mind off? Positive confession is rebellion when it is contrary to what God wants to do.> rt
<Question: In verse 16 Jeremiah tells Hananiah that Hananiah will die in 1 year. However, that's not what God instructed Jeremiah to say to him in the prior verses. The Bible does not comment either way about this.> rt
<How are prophets to be judged (Deut.18:20)? Did Hananiah die within a year? Do you think this was Jeremiah's doing or did the Lord speak it first into Jeremiah, then into reality?> jb
<Ref: Prophets. Based on Deut., It is a good assumption all that Jeremiah spoke was from God and that he spoke the entirety of the message. So most likely the prior sentences are just part of what God told him to say and most likely he told Hananiah more than just the words the Bible records. I know it's extremely important not to put our "twists" into God's instructions. I am thinking of Moses striking the rock out of frustration when God told him to speak to it.> rt
3. GOD'S LEADING
"...I will give them a heart to know Me ...they will be My people ...they will return to Me with their whole heart..." (Jer.24:7) "...I have made the earth ...and I will give it to the one who is pleasing in My sight..." (Jer.27:5) How does God interact with the world in which we live? "...I know the plans that I have for you ...welfare ...not calamity ...future and a hope..." Are these long term or short term plans? "...I am with you ...to save you ...but I will chasten you justly..." (Jer.30:11) Why is it important to hear both parts of this verse? "...I have loved you with an everlasting love ...I will build you and you will be rebuilt ...I will make them walk ...on a straight path in which they will not stumble ...My people will be satisfied with My goodness ...There is hope for you future ...I will satisfy the weary ones and refresh everyone who lanquishes..." (Jer.31:3,4,9,14,25) How do these verses encourage you?
<The plans are long term and short term. In heaven they will be fulfilled completely but now only in part, although we are to pray for God's will to be done on earth as it is in heaven. Verse 25 encourages me the most, life is busy it's easy to stray from the source and become worn down.> rt
4. OUR PART
"...roadmarks ...guideposts ...direct you mind to the highway..." (Jer.31:21) "...call to Me and I will answer you ...tell you great and mighty things..." (Jer.33:3) "...Turn now every man from his evil way and amend you deeds..." (Jer.35:15) Regardless of the type of leadership in the land, what is your part in this journey?
<My part is to obey the Lord and live with the goal being that I please him. Jeremiah 33:3 "Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things that you do not know". I really like this verse, I have been going over it recently before some of my prayers.> rt
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August 16 - Isaiah 59 to Jeremiah 17 <last post 9/1>
"...I am with you to deliver you..." (Jer.1:8,19)
"...Heal me, O Lord, and I will be healed, Save me and I will be saved..." (Jer.17:14)
Are you reading the words of the prophets with a tender heart? If you are, there is hardly any need for me to ask additional questions. The world is a mess, and God's people are at the heart of the problem. Are we content to live in this world (Egypt) as slaves? Is deliverance possible? Deliverance to what? Are we more willing to accept the misery of bondage than the uncertainties of deliverance?
Instead of specific Participation questions this week, I've provided verses under four headings. Please comment on how each section, though spoken 2500 years ago, is relevant to our world today. Your responses can be sent to drb@westbrancheyecare.com
1. TRUTH
"...truth has stumbled in the street ...yes, truth is lacking..." (Is.59:14,15)
"...O Lord, do not Your eyes look for truth..." (Jer.5:3)
"...their houses are full of deceit..." (Jer.5:27)
"...the prophets prophesy falsely, and the priest rule on their own authority; and My people love it so..." (Jer.5:31)
"...truth has perished and has been cut off..." (Jer.7:28)
"...lies and not truth prevail in the land..." (Jer.9:3)
"...everyone deceives ...they have taught their tongue to speak lies..." (Jer.9:5)
"...you have forgotten Me and trusted in falsehood..." (Jer.13:25)
<In 1918 US Senator Hiram Warren Johnson is purported to have said: The first casualty when war comes is truth. Has truth become a casualty of war in America? What war?> jb
<My first thought is the homosexual agenda, it's normal not a perversion to be gay and get married and adopt kids. With war again we are touching on a topic that we could spend hours on. The Bible makes it clear there is on ongoing war between two Kingdoms, the Kingdom of God and the kingdom of darkness. Jesus defeated Satan and its our job to plunder the strongmans house Mt 12:29 or as CS Lewis puts it in Mere Christianity "sabotage". The best picture I have heard is from Oscar Cullmann who gives the example of WWII with D-Day being the cross and V-Day being the second coming of Christ.> rt
2. STATUS
"...we grope along the wall like blind men..." (Is.59:10)
"...You have hidden Your face from us and have delivered us into the power of our iniquities..." (Is.64:7)
"...a rebellious people ...walk in the way which is not good, following their own thoughts..." (Is.65:2)
"...you did evil in My sight and chose that in which I did not delight..." (Is.65:12)
"...they have chosen their own ways, and their soul delights in their abominations..." (Is.66:3)
"...walked after emptiness and became empty...walked after things that did not profit..." (Jer.2:5,8)
"...you have spoken and have done evil things and you have had your way...(Jer.3:5)
"...they have perverted their way ...forgotten the Lord their God..." (Jer.3:21)
"...the shepherds have become stupid and have not sought the Lord..." (Jer.10:21)
<Distractions, 21st century life is busy. Are we spending these days well? Ultimately what are we pursuing? Is God our "one thing"? Do we do everything to please him - relationship? Or is it more of giving Him some and then focus on other interests without feeling bad> rt
3. CHALLENGE
"...put away your detestable things from My presence..." (Jer.4:1)
"...wash your heart from evil ...that you may be saved..." (Jer.4:14)
"...ask for the ancient paths, where the good way is, and walk in it; and you will find rest for your souls..." (Jer.6:16)
"...amend you ways and your deeds, and I will let you dwell in this place..." (Jer.7:3)
"...Do not learn the way of the nations...for the customs of the peoples are delusion..." (Jer.10:2,3)
<A delusion, in everyday language, is a fixed belief that is either false, fanciful, or derived from deception (Wikipedia). Is it possible that the accepted norms of American society false, fanciful, or deceived beliefs?> jb
<Yes. Put another way "Conformance to a sick society is to be sick". It's hard to see past our times, how many sincere Christians were okay with slavery 200 years ago? Two generations from now what will people look back and say about us? We are not the one generation without blindspots.> rt
4. GOD
"...the Lord God will cause righteousness and praise to spring up before all nations..." (Is.61:11)
"...the Spirit of the Lord gave them rest..." (Is.63:14)
"...God...acts in behalf of the one who waits for Him..." (Is.64:4)
"...to this one I will look, to him who is humble and contrite of spirit, and who trembles at My word..." (Is.66:2)
"...I am watching over My word to perform it..." (Jer.1:12)
"...I will give you shepherds after My own heart, who will feed you on knowledge and understanding..." (Jer.3:15)
<"Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows" Gal 6:7.> rt
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August 9 - Isaiah 28 to Isaiah 58 <last post 8/26>
"...I dwell on a high and holy place, and also with the contrite and lowly of spirit..." (Is.57:15)
The book of Isaiah has often been referred to as the Bible in miniature. It has 66 chapters, just as the Bible has 66 books. The first 39 chapters seem to contrast God's righteousness and holiness with man's rebellion and failure (Old Testament?). The last 27 chapters offer the hope of God's salvation (New Testament?). This week we have therefore been moving from condemnation to forgiveness.
Last week I mentioned that the eternal truth speaks simultaneously to their day, our day, and the coming days. You can't read through Isaiah without also recognizing the numerous prophetic utterances regarding the first coming of Christ. The questions for this week are directed toward personal application, but I hope you've been appreciating the amazing timelessness of God's Word.
Participation questions from this week's reading are related to - HIS WAY
Your responses can be sent to drb@westbrancheyecare.com
1. THE PROBLEMS: "...this people draw near with their words ...honor Me with their lip service ...But they remove thier hearts far from Me..." (Is.29:13) "...the rebellious ...execute a plan, but not Mine..." (Is.30:1) "...rebellious ... refuse to listen..." (Is.30:9) "...was it not the Lord, against who we have sinned, ...not willing to walk..." (Is.42:24) "...you have burdened Me with your sins, You have wearied Me with your iniquities..." (Is. 43:24) Explain the problems identified in these verses, and how they are still problems, even today.
<-We do not follow God, and we go our own way. It seems to all go back to human pride. I was again surprised by all the woes and curses we deserve.> lm
<Just going through the motions, treating God like a vending machine instead of relationship so yes that applies to today. Treating God as a formula instead of how does God feel about this? Social justice is the theme of Is. 58, taking care of the weak, hungry, and oppressed.> rt
2. HIS PART: "...the Lord will cause His voice of authority to be heard..." (Is.30:30) "...He will be the stablity of your times..." (Is.33:6) "...the Lord is our judge ...our lawgiver ...our king..." (Is.33:22) "...You ...kept my soul from the pit of nothingness..." (Is 38:17) "...the word of our God stands forever..." (Is.40:8) "...do you not know: Have you not heard? ...He sits above the circle of the earth ...He ...reduces rulers to nothing..." (Is.40:21-23) "...I have called you in righteousness, I will also hold you by the hand and watch over you..." (Is.42:6) "...I, even I, am the one who wipes out your transgressions for My own sake, and I will not remember you sins..." (Is. 43:25) "...My purpose will be established, and I will accomplish all My good pleasure..." (Is.46:10) "...the Lord has caused the iniquity of us all to fall on Him..." (Is. 53:6) How stable is our world? How stable is your life? How has God kept you? What authority do you think God has today? Do you believe that His purpose will be established? What is His 'good pleasure'?
<-I don't always see our world as stable, but it is proceeding just like it is supposed to. The same goes for me. I have times of strong stability and I have times of wondering. -God has the authority, He orchestrates as He sees fit. However, we often miss the things he is doing. We are too self-absorbed to notice! -God's salvation is His purpose.> lm
<How stable is my life? We focus on the externals but it's all about the internals. Some people are very safe and still anxious while others have peace in the worst of situations. Is God my refuge? I think LM makes a good point here with the last statement. If God's purpose is salvation, what is the Biblical meaning of the word?> rt
<Salvation from? To? Have the last 500 years created an oversimplified definition?> jb
<Yes that's what I was getting at, I heard a Bible teacher talk about Isaiah, he indicated that salvation was an all encompassing term like shalom.> rt
<We'll talk more on this issue when we get to the New Testament> jb
3. OUR PART: "...In repentance and rest you will be saved, In quietness and trust is your strength..." (Is.30:15) "...return to Him from whom you have deeply defected..." (Is.31:6) "...Encourage the exhausted, and strengthen the feeble, Say to those with anxious heart, 'Take courage, fear not'..." (Is 35:3,4) "...Those who hopefully wait for Me will not be put to shame..." (Is.49:23) "...Look to the rock from which you were hewn..." (Is.51:1) "...Listen, that you may live...Seek the Lord while He may be found; Call upon Him while He is near..." (Is.55:3,6) "...Preserve justice and do righteousness..." (Is.56:1) How do these verses about 'our part' differ from what current culture and human nature teaches? Which parts are you doing well? Which parts could you do better?
<-Our part is exactly the opposite the culture promotes, but even larger than that this is what satan promotes... a religion of self-saving works. -I need to integrate the things Isaiah says into my life all the time, not just for 30 minutes every morning or with other Christians. I guess it boils down to being dependant on God, building faithfulness in me.> lm
<Well I look to Him and call out to Him but I do not do much for the oppressed.> rt
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August 2 - Song of Solomon 1 to Isaiah 27 <last post 8/19>
"...The whole earth is full of His glory..." Is.6:3
Solomon wrote more than 3000 proverbs and more than 1000 songs. Though Song of Solomon is best read as love poetry, I have long remembered a couple of practical truth lessons that I found in its pages. First, "...do not rouse or waken my love until she pleases..." (SS 2:7, 3:5, 8:4) was a warning that timing for love is important, since reason can so easily be overpowered by eros. Second, "...the little foxes ...ruined the vineyards..." (SS 2:15) was a warning that little things can cause major problems if not addressed.
Starting with Isaiah, we're beginning our reading of the prophetic books. Prophets are responsible for relaying God's truth and intentions to God's people. Prophets are rarely appreciated by those to whom they are speaking, and the eternal truth speaks simultaneously to their day, our day, and the coming days. I said last week that Proverbs and Ecclesiastes require a lot of listening. Now my advice is that the Prophets require careful listening.
Participation questions from this week's reading will probe how well you - LISTEN
Your responses can be sent to drb@westbrancheyecare.com
1. THE PROBLEMS: "...My people do not understand..." (Is.1:3) "...people weighed down with iniquity..." (Is.1:4) "...Everyone ...chases after rewards..." (Is.1:23). What problems are described and to whom are these passages referring? "...those who guide ...confuse the direction of your paths..." (Is.3:12) "...those who guide this people are leading them astray..." (Is.9:16). What problems are described and to whom are these passages referring? "...influences from the east... strike bargains with the children of foreigners..." (Is.2:6) "...they display their sin ...do not even conceal it..." (Is.3:9) What do you hear God saying in these passages that might be relevant for those living in 2009?
<Is 1:13 "Stop bringing meaningless offerings! Your incense is detestable to me". It doesn't matter if outwardly we look good, what God is concerned about is the heart. Or as David said, I will not offer sacrifices to God that cost me nothing.> rt
2. THE CONSEQUENCES: "...the pride of man will be humbled..." (Is.2:17) "...the idols will completely vanish..." (Is.2:18) "...it will go badly with <the wicked>..." (Is.3:11) "...I will punish the world for its evil..." (Is.13:11) What do you hear God saying in these passages? How should these words affect your daily life?
<Time is flying by, you will reap what you sow.> rt
3. THE CHALLENGE: "...cease to do evil..." (Is.1:16) "...learn to do good..." (Is.1:17) "...you are not to say, 'It is a conspiracy'..." (Is.8:12) "...you are not to fear what they fear or be in dread of it..." (Is.8:12) "...the remnant ...will truly rely on the Lord..." (Is.10:20) How might these words have special application today?
<Do not focus on circumstances, what you see and your calculating. Focus on God on how good he is.> rt
4. THE BIGGER TRUTH: "...He will lift up a standard for the nations..." (Is.11:12) "...There will be no end to the increase of His government or of peace...the zeal of the Lord of Hosts will accomplish this..." (Is.9:7) "...The whole earth is full of His glory..." (Is.6:3) What do you hear these verses saying? What does 'the whole earth' look like to you?
<I believe his kingdom or government is continually expanding and will continue to do so, nothing can stop it. But also when I look at the world it seems to be getting worse, pollution, drugs, genocide. In Matthew 24:6-12 Jesus prophesies about wars, famines, and the increase of wickedness. So yes I believe both.>
rt
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July 26 - Proverbs 22 to Eccl.12 <last post 8/9>
"...He who follows empty pursuits will have poverty in plenty..." Prov.28:19
"...Draw near to listen ...let your words be few..." Eccl.5:1,2
Proverbs and Ecclesiastes require a lot of listening. Two weeks is surely not enough time. If the Psalms should be read regularly to keep centered on worship, Proverbs should be read regularly to keep centered on wisdom. Be wise - read these words often, and listen.
Participation questions from this week's reading are related to - EVIL and STRIFE
Your responses can be sent to drb@westbrancheyecare.com
1. "...God made men upright, but they have sought out many devices..." (Eccl.7:29). What is the difference between "...do not fret because of evildoers..." (Prov.24:19) and "...the fear of the Lord is to hate evil..." (Prov.8:13)? Prov.27:12a says "...a prudent man sees evil and hides himself...". What is the alternative (27:12b)? Do you see any evidence of Eccl.8:11 in our society?
<-Proverbs 27:12b: "The naive proceed and pay the penalty" -- this is where you don't want to be. Ecclesiastes 8:11: "Because the sentence against an evil deed is not executed quickly, therefore the hearts of the sons of men among them are given fully to do evil." Our laws certainly take a while to be executed, but does this really contribute to crime? Perhaps we shoud start maming people for stealing and other such crimes. Perhaps Shi'rah law isn't all that bad! Don't our hearts already come full of evil, regardless of our lawful punishments.?> lm
<I certainly wouldn't advocate the extreme quick "justice" of cutting off the hands of thieves, but quick and fair conseqences offer a better deterent than slow or missing consequences. A 'restrained' evil heart is healthier for a society than an 'unrestrained' evil heart. A new heart would be better yet.> jb
<Punishment in our society is slow, but I still prefer our system to for example the middle east.> rt
2. Proverbs refers to the contentious 5 times (21:9, 21:19, 25:24, 26:21, 27:15). They're a constant dripping, fuel to a fire, and it's better to live in the corner of the roof or in a desert land, than in their presence. What have you found helpful in dealing with the contentious? What might you conclude from Prov.26:17? Do you believe that "...one sinner destroys much good..." (Eccl.9:18)? Have you ever been the destroyer? "...He who conceals his transgression will not prosper, But he who confesses and forsakes them will find compassion..." (Prov.28:13).
<-I avoid the contentious and contentious situations. -Proverbs 26:17, seems to agree with me... or is that the other way around? -one sinner even one sin, can do much damage. -Yes, it is good to be relieved of unconfessed sin.> lm
<I try to deal with the contentious by being cool and calm. I do believe one sinner can destroy much good and I also believe the reverse. Proverbs 26:17 = let sleeping dogs lie.> rt
3. Evil and strife! It would certainly be a better world without them. When would it be appropriate to act on Prov.22:10? When would it not be appropriate? How is Prov.23:12 a first step in the right direction? How is Prov.23:13 a good step in childrearing? Prov.22:28 and 23:10 both advise against moving the "ancient boundary", which is literally a reference to property lines established by God. Can you think of other boundaries established by God that shouldn't be tampered with, but are?
<-Proverbs 22:10: "Drive out the scoffer, and contention will go out, Even strife and dishonor will cease." -- That's a good question. I'm sure that I'm about to find out. -Proverbs 23:12: "Apply your heart to discipline And your ears to words of knowledge." -- We are to listen (or read) carefully, so that we know when/how to act in discipline.> lm
<I think of plenty of lines set by God that are tampered with.> rt
ADDITIONAL COMMENT
"A little sleep, a little slumber, A little folding of the hands to rest," Then your poverty will come as a robber And your want like an armed man (Prov.24:33-34).
I just can't go through Proverbs without mentioning this verse. This goes through my mind every time I play a game of Spider. Am I okay because I'm awake and I'm using my mouse hand? Is this an "empty pursuit" referred to in Prov.28:19?
<-Unless you're intending to make a career change to playing Spider fulltime, I think you'll be OK.> lm
<I think there are a lot of empty pursuits, like those whose lives revolve around a sports team. Even good things like exercise, lifting, and studying can end up being empty. I like the eternal perspective of Ecclesiastes.> rt
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July 19 - Proverbs 1 to 21 <last post 8/2>
"...Forsake your folly and live, And proceed in the way of understanding..." (Prov.9:6)
Does anyone really want to be a fool? Does everyone want "...to know ...to discern ...to receive..." (Prov.1:2,3)? According to Solomon, it all starts with "...The fear of the Lord..." (Prov.1:7). If he is correct, can you get to understanding without starting with God? If people reject the Lord are they choosing foolishness?
Participation questions from this week's reading are related to - FOOLS
Your responses can be sent to drb@westbrancheyecare.com
1. God's message to the exiles through Jeremiah was "...You will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart..." (Jer.29:13). What is being sought, but not found, in Prov.1:28? Why (Prov.1:29,30)? What happens instead (Prov.1:31,32)? What happens when the search is successful (Prov.8:35)?
<Proverbs 1:28 "Then they will call to me but I will not answer; they will look for me but not find me." because they hated knowledge, did not fear the Lord, would not accept His advice, and spurned his rebuke. Instead the Lord will laugh at your disaster and when calamity overtakes you because of your folly. When the search is successful life and favor from the Lord is found.> rt
2. How trustworthy is your understanding (Prov.3:5)? What is the goal in Prov.4:5-8? Explain how you can acquire understanding, but not lean on it! What is the difference between the foolish and the wise according to Prov.12:15? To whom do you think Prov.14:12 and 21:2 applies? Does it make a difference what company you keep (Prov. 13:20)?
<My understanding is limited because my sight is limited. Wise men listen to advice and fools do not. Proverbs 14:12 and 21:2 apply to all of us and are scary. The company you keep matters because people are gradually rubbing off on you whether or not you realize it.>rt
3. "...Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path..." (Ps.119:105). "...the commandment is a lamp and the teaching is light..." (Prov.6:23) What is the difference between 'my feet' and 'my path'? How can clarity on both prevent foolishness? What is the opposite of walking with integrity (Prov.10:9)? What warning is being given in Prov.16:1-3 and what assurance is given in Prov.16:9?
<My feet walk down the path and can be directed down a path of my choosing. Although ultimately where I end up is from the Lord. I like Prov. 16:9 "In his heart a man plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps".> rt
4. "...A fool's mouth is his ruin..." (Prov.18:7). When have you been the the type of fool described in Prov.18:2 or Prov.18:13? How would taking these verses seriously change your communication skills?
<Yes, I should listen more although especially to wise people and not worry about airing my opinions or appearing right. I also liked Prov 18:21, what we speak is more powerful than we give credit.> rt
ADDITIONAL THOUGHT
"...When a man's ways are pleasing to the Lord, He makes even his enemies to be at peace with him..." (Prov.16:7). Why do you think there isn't more peace in the world?
<To a certain extent its we lie in the bed we make, bad choices have bad consequences.> rt
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July 12 - Psalm 115 to Psalm 150 <last post 7/26>
"...You who seek God, let your heart revive..." (Ps 69:32)
I'm always sorry when I complete this great section of scripture. It resonates deeply with my contemplative nature. It's normal for me to reflect on the good, the bad, and the ugly of life on planet earth. It's normal for me to look to the heavens and ask, "Why God". It's also normal for God to remind me that my opinions, attitudes, and preferences must yield to His higher truth.
Why do I so easily forget the things He has taught me? Why do I so often find myself in situations where I'm not reflecting His glory?
Participation questions from this week's reading are related to - REVIVAL.
Your responses can be sent to drb@westbrancheyecare.com
1. God's Part: "...The Lord has been mindful of us; He will bless us..." (Ps.115:12a) "...He will bless those who fear the Lord..." (Ps.115:13) "...Your precepts ...have revived me... (Ps.119:93) "...The Lord will protect you from all evil; He will keep your soul..." (Ps.121:7) "...He gives to His beloved even in his sleep..." (Ps.127:2) "...The Lord will accomplish what concerns me..." (Ps.138:8) "...The Lord will reign forever..." (Ps.146:10) "...The Lord favors those who fear ...those who wait..." (Ps.147:11). Which of these statements speak to your life right now? How does remembering God's part help us face life with more confidence?
<Yes. "The Lord will accomplish what concerns me" and the "The Lord will reign forever" speaks to me the most right now. Remembering that God is in control and the world doesn't revolve around me.> rt
2. Our Part: "...I shall call upon Him as long as I live..." (Ps.116:2) "...I shall pay my vows to the Lord..." (Ps.116:2) "...It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in man ...Than to trust in princes..." (Ps.118:8,9) "...Your word I have treasured in my heart, that I may not sin against You..." (Ps.119:11) "...I will meditate ...regard Your ways..." (Ps.119:11) "...I wait for Your word..." (Ps.119:74) "... in His word do I hope..." (Ps.130:5) "...One generation shall praise Your works to another..." (Ps.145:4). Which of these statements do you do well? poorly?
<Lately I have been better about praying and taking refuge in God. What I haven't been doing much is meditating on his works, I keep noticing the references in the Psalms. Internalizing them would help me be more expectant of seeing them today and increasing my faith.> rt
3. Requests: "...Teach me ...Make me understand ...strengthen me ...enlarge my heart..." (Ps.119:26-32) "...Sustain me ...Uphold me ...Redeem me ...Give me understanding..." (Ps.119:116-144) "...Deliver me..." (Ps.119:170) "...Lead me in the everlasting way..." (Ps.139:24). How does God respond to requests like these? What other requests have you voiced, and how has God answered them? What happens if these pleas are not voiced?
<God does respond. Although when situations change do we give him credit?> rt
4. Revival: "...You who have shown me many troubles and distresses will revive me again, And will bring me up again from the depths of the earth..." (Ps.71:20) "...revive me according to your Word..." (Ps.119,25,107,154)
"...Turn away my eyes from looking at vanity, And revive me in Your ways..." (Ps.119:37) "... Behold, I long for Your precepts; Revive me through Your righteousness..." (Ps.119:40) "...Revive me according to Your lovingkindness..." (Ps.119:88,159) "...Revive me according to Your ordinances..." (Ps.119:156) "...in the midst of trouble, you will revive me..." (Ps.138:7). Why is revival necessary? How is it accomplished?
<It is necessary to be revived, I would say this is what takes us from maintenance to mission, from just trying to get God to make our lives easier to being excited and having something that other people want. If we want to be revived then spiritual disciplines would place us in the place where God can revive us. Probably the surest way would be to be around people who are being revived, it's easy to catch then.> rt
Additional comments on the Psalms:
<This has been my favorite section. I have been able pour over these and re-read them better than any other section yet. I have also been reading some aloud on my balcony facing the woods. I've heard a couple pastors say when you are going through hard times, read the Psalms until until you find your voice and then pray it back to God. For me, it's been some of the best advice on hard times I have ever heard. I have some RP friends (Reformed Presbyterian) and the only thing they sing in their churches is the Psalms.> rt
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July 5 - Psalm 80 to Psalm 114 <last post 7/19>
"...deliverance by man is in vain. Through God we will do valiantly..." Psalm 108:12,13
David postured himself before God and evaluated life. We would be wise to do the same. Evaluating life from the wrong framework is an exercise in futility. "...When I pondered to understand this, it was troublesome in my sight until I came into the sanctuary of God..." (Psalm 73:16,17)
Don't underestimate the importance of the position you assume before God.
Participation questions from this week's reading are related to - POSITION.
Your responses can be sent to drb@westbrancheyecare.com
1. What was the concern expressed in Ps.89:46, the request in Ps.86:16, the belief in Ps.80:3,7,19, and the advice in Ps.105:4? What profession do both Psalm 107:20 and 29 make about God's interaction with this world? What does Psalm 82:1 say about God's posturing? What does 82:2-4 say about His expectations?
<-Where are you? Come and save me, restore me... I'll seek the Lord. -God interacts in our world and is ready to judge it (and us). The weak and needy will be vindicated from the judgement. --Our position is a small position. We think we are mighty in our own right, but we are desperately wrong.> lm
<The initial concern seems to be trying to get God's attention. I would sum these verses up with "seek the one who has the answers instead of the answers themselves".> rt
2. What do Ps.92:7-9 and Ps.101:7 say about the position of the wicked? What do Ps.92:12-14, Ps.101:6, and Ps.106:3 say about the position of the righteous? There are many who believe that faith should be a private thing. What do Ps.96:2,3, and 10 reveal about the Psalmist's position on this issue? What is your position?
<-The wicked are in trouble, big trouble. -The righteous are blessed. -We are to sing and tell others about the Lord and the upcoming judgement. -I'm a bit of a lame-O here. Not much singing in public. I actually get a bit annoyed when someone is too outspoken about their faith in public. I shouldn't be, but I often do. Perhaps, I am convicted of their boldness.> lm
<Evildoers spring up but quickly fade, those who deceive will not stand in God's presence. The righteous will flourish in the houe of the Lord and his eyes are on the faithful. Throughout the Psalms there are many commands to sing to the Lord, playing instruments, shout to the Lord and similar activities. Sometimes they say in the great assembly (I take this to mean church). By doing the things the Psalms command, such as honesty, singing, and declaring God's greatness, help to set your internals straight which will effect every decision you make. Faith is not a private thing, this is a western theory but attempts in practice do not work.> rt
3. What position is David taking in Ps.86:11,12? What does it mean for a heart to be "united"? What happens when it isn't? In what condition is your heart? How can learning to "number our days" (Ps.90:12) help our hearts? What does this mean?
<-"Teach me" is what he says. That is pretty cool. -Our heart is to unite with God's. There is singleness in purpose. -Our heart can be divided, distrought or in termoil. We can lose focus pretty easily and often. This is where remembering becomes so important to our daily lives. -Numbering our days helps put things into perspective. To remember Him and put aside ourselves.> lm
<When a heart isn't united the outward actions will be mixed. I love how the Psalms continually remind us how short our days are. I think its extremely healthy to have an eternal perspective, less worry and better decisions.> rt
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June 28 - Psalm 46 to Psalm 79 <last post 7/10>
"...cease striving and know that I am God..." Psalm 46:10
Our time in Job showed us that human insight and beliefs can fall well short of reality. It's hard to admit, but even with massive amounts of study and experience, we know so very little. "...Man in his pomp, will not endure..." (Psa.49:12).
As we started through Psalms, we pondered the difference between stability and being shaken. Can anyone deny that there is a shaking going on in our country and in our world? As we continue in Psalms, we see that life is full of dangers that can destabilize a person.
Participation questions from this week's reading are related to - SNARES.
Your responses can be sent to drb@westbrancheyecare.com
1. What are the dangers described in Psa.49:15, Psa.55:2, Psa.57:6, Psa.59:3, Psa.62:10, Psa.64:2,5, Psa.66:18, Psa.69:2, Psa.74,3-4? How do the dangers that David faced compare to the dangers that you face? What dangers exist for your generation that aren't mentioned in this list?
<-The power of hell! I think the danger is the same yesterday, today and tomorrow. The evil one will seek to kill and destroy. I would say our culture is worse, but I'm not sure that is the case. I think we face the same challenges in different ways. Am I going to turn from evil? Am I going to say no to sin? These are the same questions.> lm
<Some of the dangers are the same, such as cherishing sin in your heart and setting your heart on riches. The difference between us and David is that we do not fear physical harm from our enemies.> rt
2. Can you say with David that "...He will guide us until death..." (Psa.48:14)? What is the difference between a map and a guide? Why is the Bible, as a map, insufficient for navigating the dangers of life? Into what does the Holy Spirit guide a person (John.16:13)? How has He guided you?
<-The bible is a spiritual map. Without a spiritual guide we cannot understand it. The guide points out the way and travels it with you! I would say that I find the Holy Spirit guiding me along the path of life when I need help, which is entirely more than I admit.> lm
<A map gives you a feel for the terrain and helps you know where you are and where you need to go. A guide is personal, you can ask questions and will give you advise based on current conditions and your personal abilities. So yes, I would say the Bible is like a map and the Holy Spirit is a guide who will "guide you into all truth" (John 16:13). Another good analogy is the word and Spirit as pedals on a bicycle, the only way to work right is if you use both without excluding the other.> rt
3. Take a few minutes to ponder some of the truth David relied on. Psa.46:1 - Is He? How present? Psa.51:17 - How is this opposite cultural teaching? Psa.55:18 - What does this look like? Psa.55:22 - Who has the strength? Psa.56:9b - Do you believe this with all your heart? Psa.60:12a - What does this mean? Psa.68:19-20 - How often?
<-this is where I need the most work "Psalms 51:17 The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; A broken and a contrite heart, O God, You will not despise." --I am a prideful person, who has it all figured out. I know what I want to do and when. I don't need any help. -I realized this truth this week "Psalms 55:22 Cast your burden upon the LORD and He will sustain you; He will never allow the righteous to be shaken." --He steadied me, when I needed it. It was without my doing. Somehow mystical, like answered prayer. -He is my protector and savior at all times. I know this, although I struggle for my own way like an ignorant child.> lm
<God is present in the midst of trouble. Our cultural teaching is to pray that God would remove trouble. However trouble is a part of life (John 16:33) After looking at individuals in the Bible I would agree that "God not only prepares for conflict He leads us right into it" (and is right there guiding and teaching us in the midst).> rt
4. Psalm 78 recounts the history of the Jewish nation. What snares did they not avoid (v.8, 22, 32, 37, 58)? How did God respond (v.72)?
<-Psalms 78:7 - 8 "That they should put their confidence in God, And not forget the works of God, But keep His commandments, And not be like their fathers, A stubborn and rebellious generation, A generation that did not prepare its heart, And whose spirit was not faithful to God." --This same theme has stuck with me from our reading of the OT so far. Deuteronomy brought the idea home, but so much of the OT speaks of remembering God. It is strange to think that the Israelites who followed the pillar of fire and cloud of smoke, while eating manna from heaven had the same memory problem. --He still cares for us, despite our short comings. This is a good thing or we'd all be in alot of trouble!> lm
<The Jews were stubborn and rebellious, did not trust in God's deliverance, kept sinning, and worshipped idols. While all these actions were bad the fundamental problem here seems to be internal. Accoding to verse 72 he still led them.> rt
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June 21 - Psalm 9 to Psalm 45 <last post 6/28>
"...I will give thanks to the Lord with all my heart..." (Psalm 9:1)
The Hebrew word for the book of Psalms is Tehilim, which can be translated praises or hymns. These 150 independent compositions were collected by the Jews into 5 books to correspond to the 5 books of Moses. If our Bibles counted Psalms as 5 books instead of 1, there would be 70, not 66 books in the Bible - interesting to me because 7 is the number of God and 70 signifies perfect spiritual order carried out with all spiritual power and significance, while 6 is the number of man and 666 is the number of the beast in Revelation.
I have always appreciated the Psalms because of their devotional nature. Reading 5 Psalms every day can provide great stability in a person's Christian walk.
Participation questions from this week's reading are related to - STABILITY.
Your responses can be sent to drb@westbrancheyecare.com
1. According to Psalm 15, who has the privilege of abiding with God? What is the reward (v.5)? What is the implied alternative? Is America standing on a firm foundation? Are you?
<-There is quite a list here: walk is blameless; does what is righteous; speaks the truth from his heart; has no slander on his tongue; does his neighbor no wrong; casts no slur on his fellowman; despises a vile man; honors those who fear the LORD; keeps his oath (even when it hurts); lends his money without usury; does not accept a bribe against the innocent. --This list provides us a good target to shoot for. But does God really just want this to be a target for us to aim for? The text is written such that we are to be this way, no buts about it! -I like what The Living Bible says in verse 5: "such a man shall stand firm forever", now that is cool.> lm
<Psalm 15 is a list of ways to keep our walk blameless so we can dwell in his sactuary and and not be shaken. The one I was thinking about this week is "who keeps his oath even when it hurts". I need to be slower to commit to things, who knows what is going to come up in the meantime that is going to make keeping what I said I would do difficult. According to verse 5, "He who does these things will never be shaken". According to verse 1, we need to do these things in order to stand in His presence.> rt
2. Psalm 16 also refers to finding stability in life. What is the key given in v.8? What is the reward in v.11?
<-"I have set the LORD continually before me; Because He is at my right hand, I will not be shaken."
--to put it simply, He is the key. We focus on Him and He keeps us. -"You will make known to me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; In Your right hand there are pleasures forever." --the rewards are life, joy, and pleasures.> lm
<Verse 8 of Psalm 16 indicates setting the LORD always before me with the reward being "the paths of life" and "joy in in your presence".> rt
3. "...If the foundations are destroyed, what can the righteous do?..." (Ps.11:3). The shifting value system of American culture has caused many to cry out in despair, just as David did in many of his Tehilim. But David usually ended differently than he started. What is the psalmist's advice in Ps. 27:14, and Ps.37:1,3,5,7,34? What difference does it make to believe Ps.18:2, 19:7-8, 23:6, 33:10, and 34:7,19?
<-"Wait for the LORD; Be strong and let your heart take courage; Yes, wait for the LORD." --I like that we are told twice in one short verse to wait. Adoption is an exercise in waiting. Furthermore, we are not to fret, while trusting, committing, and resting in the Lord. -Believing in the Lord will do more than we ever expect for us and others. His care and compassion for us are beyond what we can even know! --I am continually surprised how He works in me (and others) despite my lack of faith and doubts.> lm
<The psalmist's advice in these verses can be summed up by 27:14 "Wait for the LORD; be strong and take heart" and 37: 8 "Do not fret-it only leads to evil". There is an emphasis here on waiting for and simply trusting in the Lord. Frequently we think we need to do this and do that and keep trying, which isn't necessarily bad. However, the focus should be on him and not our own efforts.> rt
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June 14 - Job 24 to Psalm.8 <last post 6/21>
"...the fear of the Lord, that is wisdom; And to depart from evil is understanding..." (Job.28:28)
"...teach me what I do not see..." (Job.34.32)
We have the advantage of reading Job from outside the situation. We know things about which Job and his friends were clueless. They contemplated and commented on a situation without all the facts. Do we have the same problem? Can we see our lives from outside our lives? What difference would it make to remember that we have a limited perspective? Is it possible to avoid illusions of understanding?
As we finish Job and start Psalms, we're still asking the same question - what is REAL?
Participation questions from this week's reading are again related to - REALITY.
Your responses can be sent to drb@westbrancheyecare.com
1. How is it possible to miss reality even while spouting a seemingly endless number of "God facts"? When God finally responded, what did He have to say (Job 38:2)? What was Job's response in Job 40:4? What danger lurks in the American educational system's push to build self esteem?
<-Its very easy, even when we're trying hard not to allow it to happen. -"Who are you..." what a lowly point, God was making. I think Job got it in the end. -We don't want our kids to become too proud of themselves.> lm
<It's very easy to miss reality while just spouting God facts. God ends up pointing how out much Job does not know and that there are things beyond Job's understanding. Job responds "I am unworthy - how can I respond to you?". The danger with self esteem based education is that it focuses on feelings instead of actions. A person may feel good about something that is bad for them in the long run. The delusion will eventually catch up to the child and the longer reality takes to catch up the harder it will be for them.> rt
2. What does it mean to sit in the seat of scoffers (Psa.1:1)? What happens there? What are the scoffers attempting to accomplish and what is heaven's response in Psa.2:3,4? What do scoffers love (Psa.4:2)? What reality eludes scoffers (Job 42:2)?
<-Scoffer's purpose is to belittle and to make fun of. They mock God. -We are to distance ourselves from scoffers. -Scoffers love worthless things. -The reality that God is in control, eludes the scoffer. -My extra thought here... no one is beyond salvation, but the scoffer is in the midst of rejecting God, even worst mocking God. They are not honest with themselves, they are not at a point of repentance (maybe?). It seems wise to avoid someone at this point in their lives, you will be hurt and they are going to hurt themselves. Be available, but keep some "safe" space. Or maybe we should go all out for them? Any thoughts?> lm
<Sitting in the seat of scoffers means to join in either as a participant or as audience. "The One enthroned in heaven laughs", God is secure, what can they do to him? According to Psa 4:2, scoffers turn glory into shame. The reality that eludes scoffers is that "no plan of (God's) can be thwarted" (Job 42:2). I think people have 2 options. They can scoff and point out where others fail (easy) or they can try to make a difference with their own lives.> rt
3. What reality is discussed in Deut.27:19, Job 24:3, Job 29:12,13, Job 31:16,17, Is.1:17, and James 1:27? Is this a glimpse of the heart of the Almighty? Where does this fit into your life's list of priorities?
<-Despite our upcoming adoption, I reallly struggle with the homeless. And in our day of common single mothers, I never really think about the widow. -We're doing what some would consider a huge thing by adopting, but I reall think it is very little.> lm
<Yes, the heart of God is for the weak and oppressed. Well, it's too low on the list of priorities. I think people get caught up with good things and do not prioritize right. What good is it even to learn more and more about the Bible if we are not doing what it is says to do? Also, interesting is the few verses leading up to Isaiah 1:17.> rt
"...learn to do good; seek justice, correct oppression; bring justice to the fatherless, plead the widow’s cause...(Isaiah 1:17)
CONGRATULATIONS TO ANDREW AND KATIE ON THEIR WEDDING DAY - June 13, 2009.
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June 7 - Job 1 - 23 <last post 6/19>
"...I go forward but He is not there, and backward, but I cannot perceive Him..." (Job 23:8)
Job is another book that is apparently out of order chronologically in the Bible. Most scholars place the date of Job as the time of the Patriarchs (Abraham, Isaac, Jacob), which would be midway through Old Testament history. I won't ask the obvious question about Satan's movement between earth and heaven. We'll leave that for another day.
Our focus this week will be on perceived vs actual reality. Do we really understand how and why things happen? Do we explain things with words that make sense to us but don't begin to touch the actual reality of situations? Do we really understand what we think we understand?
<-I know there is a lot I don't know, but it's all I don't know that I don't know which is scary!> lm
Participation questions from this week's reading are related to - REALITY.
Your responses can be sent to drb@westbrancheyecare.com
1. What was the accusation levied in Job 1:9-11? What was the assault carried out in Job 1:13-19? What was Job's response in Job 1:20,22? How do people in 2009 respond to similar events?
<-Satan accuses God of protecting Job and blessing him. -Satan attacked his property and children. -Job mourned and praised God, he did not sin. -We respond by blaming (suing, attacking, etc.) and cursing God.> lm
<Satan called out Job's obedience to God as conditional. Satan inflicted personal tragedy. Job lost his property and his children died. In the face of tragedy Job worshiped God and did not charge Him for what had happened. Many do not seek perspective, but fall into despondency. Others blame God. Quite a few blame others. Fear seems to be the poisonous root. When people do not trust God they try to level their ship using any means possible. There are some though that are drawn closer to God in personal tragedy. (most recent witness to this was Steven Curtis Chapman-great podcast on Focus on the Family website)> md
<Satan accuses Job of being a fair weather friend to God. Of course he loves you, look how much you have blessed him. God then gives Satan permission to take away everything Job has and Job responds by praising God. In 2009 people respond by questioning God and how much he really cares.> rt
2. What was the accusation levied in Job 2:4,5? What was the assault carried out in Job 2:7? What was Job's response in Job 2:10? How do people in 2009 respond to similar events?
<How do people in 2009 respond to similar events? -If you attack his physical body he will curse God. -Job got boils. -We must accept good and bad from God, he did not sin. -we go see a doctor for a cure? -In some ways I think the first trial is worse than the second. I wonder what the cultural significance was to getting boils?> lm
<After failing to bring about Job's cursing of God with his first barrage, Satan states that a personal attack on the physical man will surely bring one to curse God. Job was assaulted with boils from his feet to his head. In 2:10 he called out his wife for being foolish because she instructed him to curse God, and then he witnessed to the importance of trusting God both in good times and adversity. In 2009 many do "sin with their lips". I don't believe the majority of people consider the possible implications of a spiritual realm when faced with physical affliction.> md
<In Job 2, Satan goes back on his first accusation and then claims that Job will curse God if he loses his health. Job is then inflicted with painful sores and his wife tells him to curse God. In 2009 people respond by losing hope/giving up and withdrawing. Would you want anyone to see you like this?> rt
3. Based on Job 2:11-13, how would you rate Job's friends? How accurate were the comments of Eliphaz (Job 5:8-16), Bildad (Job 8:1-7), and Zophar (Job 11:13-15). What is the inherent problem with man's theology?
<-Job's friends had the right idea. They cared for him. -They were mostly right, but had a little wrong thinking mixed into their theology. They believed that every event (good and bad) in our lives is tied to our actions. They excluded God's sovereignty from the equation! -Man's theology is flawed, God help us in so many ways.> lm
<In Job 2:11-13 I would rate Job's friends highly, they choose to come visit him in trouble and to comfort him. In the US I think we usually try to avoid people who are sick and in pain. We are busy and would rather be around people who are happy and doing well. I don't have a problem with anything Eliphaz, Bildad, or Zophar says. I think the inherent problem is that they do not see the big picture and they are looking at God as a formula instead of a relationship.> rt
4. Evaluate the accuracy of some of Job's comments - are they true or false? "...He has exhausted me..." (16:7) "...His anger has torn me and hunted me down..." (16:9) "...God hands me over to ruffians..." (16:11) "...God has wronged me..." (19:6) "...my Redeemer lives, and at the last He will take His stand on the earth..."(19:25). How clearly do you think and how appropriately do you respond when faced with the unexpected? Have you experienced the Job 23:8 dilemma of looking for, but not finding God in a situation? What advice would you give to a friend who is facing extreme suffering?
<-Who knows the ways of God? We lift up Job, but he is just as flawed as you and me. There is so much we don't understand. -I try to take the unexpected with the right perspective. Adoption has taught me much about my expectations. -Job may not see God at the moment but he knows that he is there and Job is faithful as he continues to follow God, even when he cannot see Him. I find hope in Job 23:10 - 11 (NASB) 10 But He knows the way I take; When He has tried me, I shall come forth as gold. My foot has held fast to His path; I have kept His way and not turned aside." --I think verses 23:10-11 have plenty of advise for our suffering friends. I just hope I don't mess up the delivery!> lm
<Not all of his comments are true. God is not angry with him, in fact he is very pleased with his response. To anyone who is facing extreme suffering I would tell them for every one hour you spend focusing on your suffering, for example reading about your cancer, spend 2 hours focusing on the character of God and how good he is. Proclaim truth especially when they situation seems to directly contradict it. For example, when you are sick, tell God he is the Great Physician. When you are in need, tell God he is Jehovah Jirah, your provider. We don't choose many situations we face but we do choose our response.> rt
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May 31 - Neh.4 - Ester 10 <last post 6/6>
"...for such a time as this..." (Est.4:14)
This excerpt from Mordcai's plea to Esther wouldn't mean much to most Americans. The force feeding of Darwin's theory and the aggressive attempt to remove God from all public places has resulted in a major problem - loss of purpose. People don't realize that there is a reason for their existence.
<-I think "purposelessness" is a good vehicle for evangelism. Without sounding too, "purpose driven life" we are empty when we don't know our true purpose. Our society is empty and painfully exploring options for fulfillment. We (read "I") need to be better about showing my empty friends.> lm
One hundred years after the destruction of Jerusalem and the exile to Babylon, Ahasuerus became the king of Persia. Seven years later, Esther became his queen. Ezra came to Jerusalem twenty one years after Esther prevented the annihilation of the Jews. Nehemiah came thirteen years after Ezra. Esther follows Ezra and Nehemiah in the Bible, but chronologically she was before them.
Participation questions from this week's reading are related to - PURPOSE.
Your responses can be sent to drb@westbrancheyecare.com
1. We are given three facts about Esther in Est.2:7. Which fact appears to be tragic? Which fact was a gifting for her purpose? Which fact was a major influence in assisting her toward her destiny? Why was Esther's situation difficult (Est.4:11)? Was she assured of the outcome (Est.4:16)? At what point, if ever, do you think Esther realized her purpose?
<-she had no father or mother, was beautiful, and Mordecai took her as his own daughter. The tragic was the loss of her mother and father. Her beauty was her secret weapon (Mordecai is an influence as well).
-It was difficult to approach the king, because he put many unsummoned people to death. Esther was ready for a good or bad response. I also like the fast they did to get ready. I should do that more. I also wonder how much her own death (as a Jew) was a looming fact. -It seemed to take some convincing from Mordecai.> lm
<The three facts are that she was Mordecai's cousin, lovely, and her parents were dead. Her beauty was the biggest influence toward her destiny. Esther's situation was difficult because the law indicated that by doing this she would be put to death, also the last queen lost her position by disobeying the king. She was in no way assured of a positive outcome (4:16) but knew she could not stand back and watch. She may have suspected but I don't think she knew her purpose until afterwards looking back. I suspect most people are like this (Winston Churchill being an exception).> rt
2. Haman and Mordecai had significantly different outlooks on life. What did Haman value (Est.3:5, 5:11)? What did Mordecai value (Est.10:3)? Who do you think was fulfilling his God given purpose? There is an interesting statement made to Haman in Est.6:13. What did they know that many in our world do not know?
<-Haman was prideful. -Mordecai looked out for others. -both were filling God's given purpose, although in completely different ways. -the honor does not "really" come in this world, but the next. >
<Haman full of prideful, his focus on life was his own greatness while Mordecai worked for the good of his people. Est: 6:13 it's interesting that Haman's family can see that God is with Mordecai and the Bible doesn't say but I'll bet there where Jews that couldn't see this.> rt
3. How was Nehemiah's concern in Neh.1:1-6 more like Mordecai than Haman? What did he need to overcome to fulfill his purpose (Neh.4)? How did he do it (Neh.5:19,6:9)? Nehemiah was the builder. Ezra was the priest. Together they attempted to rebuild the purposes of God in the returning exiles. What major problems were corrected in Nehemiah 13?
<-Nehemiah was concerned for his people and not himself. -they were criticized and attacked, but they depended on the strength of God. -they basically got the temple up and running again (They cleaned it out, started tithing, and re-instituted the Sabbath).> lm
<Like Mordecai, Nehemiah was concerned for his people. He had to first overcome his fear of the king Neh 2:2, and then threats and discouragement in Neh 4. "What are these feeble Jews doing?...Can they bring these stones back to life from these heaps of rubble -burned as they are?" He was able to overcome because the Lord was with him and strengthened him. I want to reference 2 Cor 5:7 "We live by faith not by sight". Neh 6:16 comments that "the surrounding nations were afraid and lost their self-confidence, because they realized that this work had been done with the help of our God". **** In Neh 13 we find the people at it again, working on the Sabbath, the Levites neglected, and the men getting involved with foreign women. Nehemiah is a leader, he does not mess around or compromise. This is what God wants this is where we are going. He rebukes some, drives some away and beats others. Men in the church today do not look like this, would God raise up men leaders like Nehemiah to lead us!> rt
BONUS
Can you know your purpose before it is fulfilled? What are you willing to risk to fulfill it? How will your life affect those who come after you?
<-I suppose the greater purpose of life (to glorify God) can be known early on, but I think the specific ways demonstrated in our particular gifting is not usually fulfilled until later on. -I'm low risk, that's why this is all so scary (what a wuss I am)!>
<Can you know your purpose before it is fulfilled? I think God gives you clues by giftings, desire, words spoken over you, etc. What are you willing to risk to fulfill it? Are we willing to risk failing and being teachable and getting back up and trying again? How will your life affect those who come after you? Encouragement, the biggest encouragements I see are people close to God, something inside me wants that more than anything else.> rt
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May 24 - 2 Chron.28 - Neh.3 <last post 5/27 12:15>
"... do not stiffen your neck ...but yield to the Lord ...and serve the Lord your God..." (2 Chr.30:8)
I can't seem to get the 'bow down' concept out of my mind. I actually found it helpful this week to start my day by mentally, physically, and verbally bowing down before God. Now if I can just keep this posture in my heart 24 hours a day. I think that we either bow down to God, or we bow down to whatever foolishness has currently captured our allegiance.
Ezra and Nehemiah bring us the story of restoration. The remnant of God's people who were exiled for their disobedience are now returning. Ezra leads by example, falling on his knees, stretching our his hands to the Lord (Ez.9:5), weeping and prostrating himself (Ez.10:1)
"...we are before You in our guilt, for no one can stand before You..." (Ezra 9:15)
Participation questions from this week's reading are related to - REBUILD.
Your responses can be sent to drb@westbrancheyecare.com
1. INITIATION: The Israelites were taken captive to Babylon. Babylon then fell to the Persians.
Why did the king of Persia send people back to Jerusalem to rebuild the temple (Ez.1:1)? Why did the people go back to rebuild the temple (Ez.1:5)? From where does the impetus for reconcilation come? Did God have any trouble using an earthly king for judgement, and another for reconciliation? Does God have any trouble using the rulers of our time for His purposes?
<The king of Persia sent the people back because the LORD moved his heart and the people went back for the same reason. Reconciliation comes from the LORD. He has no trouble using rulers then or now for his purposes. However, God's people do have trouble seeing him in situations.> rt
<The Lord stirred up Cyrus's spirit in order to fulfill the prophecy of Jeremiah. The people who went back to rebuild the temple also had a spirit moved by God. In this case the impetus for true reconciliation was stirred in those who were seeking the Lord. There is also "false" reconciliation which can come from those with ulterior motives who are seeking their own personal gain through manipulation. God is a God of judgment and reconciliation and does not lack the power to exercise both through man. Does God have any trouble using the rulers of our time...depends on their heart.> md
2. RESISTANCE: As usual, there were those who opposed what God had initiated. What tactics did the enemies of Judah and Benjamin use against them (Ez.4:4-7)? What resistance have you met while trying to accomplish what God has initiated in your life?
<In Ez 4:4-7 their enemies used discouragement and and then lodged a complaint with the people over them. I have experienced this same thing, discouragement and seeing things how man sees them instead of how God sees them.> rt
<They hired counselors to frustrate them. They wrote accusations against them. They eventually solicited King Artaxerxes help which ceased the rebuilding...temporarily. Cultural resistance. Truth ignored. Truth disregarded. Still pinpointing "the temple" I can build for God.> md
<We are the temple> jb
3. SETBACKS: Resistance is rarely passive, and active resistance will usually lead to setbacks. What occured in Ezra 4:23-24 that proved to be a major setback? Have you experienced setbacks that felt like dead ends?
<In Ez 4:23-24 the authorities forcefully compelled the Jews to stop what God had set up. I have experienced setbacks, lately my attitude has been much better, I have been focusing on the opportunities that are open rather than what is closed. Or maybe I'm being too flexible and not persistent enough? There is probably some tension here.> rt
<The Jews "by force of arms" v23 ceased rebuilding the temple. Sure. For myself the "redirections" or "pauses" can sometimes feel like setbacks, but it's a good time to enlarge my perspective and bare down in the word.> md
4. CONFIRMATION: What reactivated the rebuilding process in Ezra 5:1,2? How has God provided confirmation for you to resume in spite of resistance and major setbacks? Question 3 from last week addressed the issue of 'set your heart'. Ezra 7:10 contains the Hebrew word 'kuwn', which is translated as set, estabish, fix, prepare, or apply. For what did Ezra 'kuwn' his heart?
<In Ezra 5, the prophets encouraged the people and the work was begun again. Ez 7:10 "Ezra had devoted himself to the study of and observance of the law of the LORD, and to teaching its decrees and laws in Israel".> rt
<The prophesies of Haggai and Zechariah. God has provided me confirmations in the word, and He has ministered to me through messages or words fitly spoken by fellow believers. Ezra prepared his heart to seek God's law, to actively do it, and to teach the statutes and ordinances in Israel.> md
SUMMARY THOUGHTS:
It all begins with God, it is all sustained by God, it is all confirmed by God, and eventually we'll see that it is all completed by God. How big is your God and to what does He respond? 2Chron.32:21 refers to the same story of God responding to Hezekiah's prayer that we read about in 2Kngs.19:35. What did the ONE angel that God sent accomplish? One against how many? Again I ask, how big is your God?
<One angel put to death 185,000 men in one night. How big is our God? Bigger than we know. I like how CS Lewis puts it in Narnia where Lucy says to Aslan you are bigger! And he essentially says no I was always this big but every year you grow you will find me to be bigger.> rt
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May 17 - 2 Chron.2 - 2 Chron.27 <last post 5/26>
"... Come, let us worship and bow down, Let us kneel before the Lord our Maker..." (Psalms 95:6)
Reading 2 Chronicles is mostly a repeat of things to which we've already been exposed. I wonder if you've been down some of the same thought trails that I've been navigating? I've been thinking a lot about pride vs humility. I've been thinking about the words "bow down". I wonder if we've lost the ability to correctly posture before those who are worthy of respect. I wonder if we too readily acquiesce to the idols of our land.
Participation questions from this week's reading are related to - BOW DOWN.
Your responses can be sent to drb@westbrancheyecare.com
1. How much sacrifice occurred at the dedication of the temple (2 Chr.5) and what was the result (2 Chr.5:14)? Were they sacrificing anything of value? Does laying down what we value (sacrifice) and lifting up what God values (praise) still result in His presence with us?
<-more than be counted... and the glory of the Lord forced the priests out of the temple. -They sacrificed sheep and oxen, which represented their livelyhood. I often wonder where they got all their animals for these sacrifices. They must of had some serious family farms. -Putting ourself aside (our pride) is always a good start. Whether or not we realize it, His presence is with us all the time. We have the ultimate onboard spiritual GPS.> lm
<A lot...too many sheep and oxen to count which resulted in the glory of the Lord filling the temple. They were definitely sacrificing things of value. Their livestock were their livelihood. Good question. I haven't recently witnessed a pastor not being able to preach because God's glory had filled the church... Do you think the "magnitude" of His presence is related to the collective "sacrifice and praise" that is brought into his house. Can God's presence even be tempered? Maybe our sheep and oxen can actually be counted. > md
<The temple was a big project and sacrifice but the result was that the presence of the Lord came powerfully. Yes praise does result in His presence among us. Right actions release right emotions and right thinking, not the other way around*. Keep in mind we cannot turn God on and off like a switch, God is God. However, when we praise God stuff happens as my friend pointed out, example from this passage is "As they began to sing and praise, the LORD set ambushes against the men of Ammon and Moab and Mount Seir who were invading Judah" 2 Chron 20:22.
*Bill Johnson and CS Lewis both make this point> rt
2. What was the posture Solomon assumed during his dedication prayer before the people (2 Chr.6:13)? What was the result of his prayer (2 Chr.7:1,2) and what was the response of the people (v.3)? What did God then tell Solomon was the formula for a healthy land (2 Chr.7:14)?
<-"knelt on his knees in the presence of all the assembly of Israel and spread out his hands toward heaven." This is pretty cool. He went to his knees before all Israel. Humility comes to mind, so does worship. -"All the sons of Israel, seeing the fire come down and the glory of the LORD upon the house, bowed down on the pavement with their faces to the ground, and they worshiped and gave praise to the LORD, saying, .Truly He is good, truly His lovingkindness is everlasting.. - the people worshipped the Lord in body and words. -"[If] My people who are called by My name humble themselves and pray and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, will forgive their sin and will heal their land." one of the most popular verses from our bible. It does not look like our land is going to be healed anytime soon.> lm
<Solomon was on his knees with his hands spread toward heaven. Following his prayer, fire came down from heaven and the glory of the Lord filled the temple. The people responded by bowing down, worshiping and praising God. The people followed Solomon's example of posture before God... or does being in the presence of God lead one to naturally bow down? A healthy land is one that has people who humble themselves before God, pray, seek Him, and turn from wickedness.> md
<He knelt down and spread his hands out toward heaven, I am pretty sure I've never seen a pastor do this. The result was fire came down from heaven and the glory of the Lord filled the temple. The formula God's gives to his people is to "humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and forgive their sin and heal their land".> rt
3. After the story of Solomon, we again read the story of Rehoboam. Was Rehoboam the bowing type? Could the kingdom split have been avoided? What do 2 Chr.10:15 and 1 Kng.11:29-39 tell us about this situation? What change occured from 2 Chr.12:2 to 2 Chr.12:6,7? "...He did evil because he did not set his heart to seek the Lord..." (2Chr. 12:14). How can you avoid this problem? What does it mean to set your heart to seek the Lord?
<-What does it look like to seek the Lord with all your Heart, Mind, soul and strength? I wish I entirely knew. My best guess is to put aside our pride and seek Him through reading, studying, prayer, meditation, listening, etc. I also recongnize that: 1. it is hard to put aside our pride and 2. seeking Him takes focused effort that I don't always take the time to accomplish.> lm
<At least Rehoboam consulted the elders, though he chose to ignore their sound advice. He was well aware that the elders were worth seeking for advice, but he definitely doesn't come across as the bowing type. The kingdom split was a fulfillment of prophecy. Rehoboam forsook the Lord, but after the visit from Shemaiah the prophet he humbled himself before the Lord. How to avoid...daily, weekly, monthly checks. How have I sought the Lord today, this week, this month? Accountability with other believers, family, spouse. To seek "to go to or toward". Faith in action. > md
<The kingdom split could have been avoided had Solomon not finished so poorly. These two passages tell us that once God made up his mind it was a done deal. The change that occurs in 2 Chr. 12 is that the leaders humble themselves and God backs his punishment off a bit. The passage states he did evil because he did not set his heart to seek the Lord. Therefore the only way to avoid this is to seek the Lord. What does it mean to do this? You could pick a number of verses to summarize but Gal 1:10 "Am I now trying to win the approval of men, or of God?" Priorities, the years are slipping by, have we spent the last few years well? If not, are we making changes or just letting life come at us and be consumed by the busyness?> rt
4. After hearing the words "...if you seek Him, He will let you find Him..." and "...do not lose courage, for there is reward for your work...", Asa set his heart to do much good. But what was Asa bowing down to in Chapter 16. What could have occured with the proper heart posture (2 Chr. 16:9)? Do you think this is available in 2009?
<-He relied on earthly rulers and then moved to seers. -The Lord is looking for faithful men and women.> lm
<I would say Asa made a good decision in the natural. However, God was looking for more out of him, God wanted him to seek his face. This is available in 2009. God likes to make good decisions with based on circumstances with the knowledge we have "Be as shrewd as snakes" (Matt 10:16). He gave us the power of reason to use it. However, we need to also be going to the One who has the answers and not just looking for the answers themselves. Isn't the whole point of Christianity relationship?> rt
5. I asked you to pay attention to the multiple references to 'high places' in the history of the kings. Hopefully you've realized that the same problem plagues us today. Why do high places remain (2 Chr.20:33)? How do 2 Chr.12:1, 2 Chr.26:16 compare to your understanding of the history of the United States of America.
<-high places remain because we have not completely turned to the Lord. We have baggage that we seem to keep with us and not want to let go. -I find the same theme through much of the OT. Remember the LORD. Remember Him all the time. Follow Him, obey Him, and remain faithful.> lm
<I am not sure that I am completely understand what you are asking. The high places today are what we are placing above God right?> rt
<Even when people are interested in God, it's quite common for high places to remain. High places are places of appeasement to non-gods that are actually defiances against the position that God alone should occupy. High places are the prevailing culture's sources of encouragement and help, the traditions and preferences established by man, not God. May God help us to avoid them, and to faithfully tear them down.> jb
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May 10 - 1 Chron.9 - 2 Chron.1 <last post 5/18>
"...Be strong, and let us show ourselves courageous..." (1 Chr.19:13)
It could be argued that all humanity faces the same enemy, but each age seems to have its own variety of conflicts. It's unlikely that we'll see battle lines drawn by the Ammonites, but we've certainly seen battle lines drawn by others, Battles usually end with the victors and the vanquished. Which battles shouldn't be fought, but are? Which battles should be fought, but aren't? Maybe we'll see more clearly by the end of the year.
Participation questions from this week's reading are related to - PRESENCE.
Your responses can be sent to drb@westbrancheyecare.com
1. What are the major problems that caused Saul's downfall (1 Chr.10:13-14, 13:3)? What was the reason David became great (1Chr.11:9, 18:13)? What was distinctive about the sons of Issachar (1 Chr.12:32)? How can understanding these three help you in your daily life?
<- Saul committed tresspassses against the LORD and did not keep the word of the LORD. He also sought counsel outside of the Lord. For these things his downfall came. - The Lord was with David (ie., David followed the Lord)..And the LORD helped David wherever he went. It sounds like a pretty good deal! - The men of Issachar "understood the times, with knowledge of what Israel should do"... what does that mean? Looks like they were faithful regardless of the conditions they faced. --"Remember the Lord your God." Deut 8:18> lm
<Saul: unfaithfulness, forsaking the word of the Lord David: The Lord was with him. sons of Issachar: "understanding of the times" v32 understanding: superior power of discernment; enlightened intelligence Dictionary.com. Am I faithful? Do I live each day obeying the word of the Lord? Do I recognize the hand print of God in my life? Do I have an understanding of the times? All are important questions to consider day by day.> md
<Saul was unfaithful to the Lord, he did not keep the word of the Lord, consulted a medium or guidance, and did not inquire of the Lord. "And David became more and more powerful because the Lord Almighty was with him" 1 Chr 11:9. The "men of Issachar, who understand the times and knew what Israel should do". God has things planned for us at each point in our life and if we do not pick them up we cannot go back. How can understanding these three help in daily life? First off, avoiding downfalls. Secondly, if the Lord is with us who can stand against us. With regards to the sons of Issachar, just like them, God has us at this moment in time for a reason.> rt
2. 1 Chr.13:8-10 recounts the same story we read about in 2 Samuel. How can things go so bad so quickly? 1 Chr.15:19-29 recounts the second attempt, complete with cymbals, harps, lyres, singing, and dancing. What was different this time (1 Chr.15:13-15)? Is truth important to God? What do you suppose God thinks of the 'truth is relative' mantra of our day?
<-The correct preprations were made the second time to move the ark. In many cases you're either doing it God's way (the truth) or the otherway (the lie). When you do it your way, the consequences are often disasterous.> lm
<Getting caught up in the moment, emotional chaos. What was different...there was order and they followed God's directives. (V13) Truth = God's reality not man's perceptions. Any attempt to define verity apart from God is impossible. "truth is relative" is a lie from the deceiver.> md
<They were not following the instructions God gave them. After this they got it right second time around. Bill Johnson gives the analogy of feeding alligators. The people who get bit are the ones who do it all the time. They become over-familiar and get careless, do we remember who we are dealing with? Truth is important to God, he offers but does not force, we lie in the bed we make.> rt
3. After successfully bringing the Ark to Jerusalem, David reflects on God's presence. His thanksgiving in 1 Chr.16:8-36 will also be found as Psalm 105 and Psalm 96, which we'll be reading in July. Does a Psalm come to mind when you read "... I will not take my lovingkindness away from Him..." (1 Chr.17:13) or "... Who am I, O Lord God, and what is my house that You have brought me this far... " (1 Chr.17:16)? How could David maintain such an attitude of worship? How can you?
<-We all have our ups sand downs, but remembering who is in charge can bring us a long way. I think for the most part, David remembered who was in charge.> lm
<Psalm 63:3 "Because your lovingkindness is better than life, My lips shall praise you." and Psalm 8:4 "What is man that You are mindful of him..." both are great worship songs too. David experienced true joy in the fellowship of God. How can I? Recount my blessings every day and praise the God who supplies my every need.> md
<Excellent. And how about the most quoted Psalm, the 23rd - "...surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life..."? David knew he needed God's presence and he had a deep assurance that God was with him. Do we?> jb
<David was a worshiper, at some point in his life he realized that God's heart was not after the blood of bulls but the sacrifice of praise from the heart. Max Lucado’s references Psalm 34 and talks about how worship enlarges our view of God. We start realizing the big picture and begin to see how infinitely big God is. “As we draw nearer, he seems larger. Isn’t that what we need? A big view of God? Don’t we have big problems, big worries, big questions?” The problems don’t usually just go away but worship helps us to see more of God and it places everything in proper perspective and order. Putting more focus on how big God is rather than just how big the problem is, this makes sense to me. That it would be better to approach problems keeping in mind a view of God that is correct (He is so big and so good) than with just the enormity of the problem. This is how David was able to go up against Goliath and bring victory.> rt
4. We can strive for success. We can strive for victory in the battles we face. We can strive to do what's right. We can fall like Saul, in disobedience and blindness. We can slip like David, in lust or in pride. What is needed? What advise did an aging and wiser David give to his son (1 Chr.28:9)? He recognized that humans are "...sojourners ...tenants ...like a shadow ..." (1 Chr.29:15), and that God will "...try the heart and delight in uprightness..." (1 Chr.29:17). How does the Presence, or Absence, of the Almighty make the difference?
<- As for you, my son Solomon, know the God of your father, and serve Him with a whole heart and a willing mind; for the LORD searches all hearts, and understands every intent of the thoughts. If you seek Him, He will let you find Him; but if you forsake Him, He will reject you forever. --This is pretty cool stuff, here. David gives us the advise, it is upto us to yield it. It makes all the difference in life, even eternal life.> lm
<Actively seek God. Know Him. Be loyal in your heart and willing in your mind. Without God we can do nothing good. Our strivings will come up short. Without Him life really is meaningless. With Him we find life everlasting.> md
<We need to "serve him with wholehearted devotion and a willing mind, for the Lord searches every heart and understands every motive behind the thoughts". Yes, Presence makes the difference. We can do all things through Christ who strengthens us (Phil 4:13).> rt
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May 3 - 2 Kings.18 - 1 Chron.8 <last post 5/10>
"...do not be afraid because of the words that you have heard..." (2 Kings 19:6)
The world population is moving toward 7 billion - visit WorldMeters for other interesting statistics. Can you imagine the size and number of books that would be necessary to hold the complete geneologies of all the people who have lived on planet earth? Just thought I'd throw that out as we start our journey through the books of Chronicles. Does every life matter? What will history have to say about your life? Does God have any difficulty with the accuracy of the "Book of Life" (Rev.20:15)?
<-Remember, it would only have to be half as big, because women aren't recorded!> lm
Character is what one is and reputation is what one is thought to be by others. Presidents and World Leaders now spend large amounts of money to have their reputations managed, and the world populace rarely knows their true character. This is not the case in God's Kingdom. No spin doctor can alter the reality that is you. Shouldn't we be more concerned with developing character, rather than reputations?
<- On Tuesday before the presidential speach, the announcer said something that follows this non-logic. He said something along the lines of 70% like Obama, but 70% don't like what he is doing in office. He is somehow effectively managing a separate reputation (his high approval rating) and character (his unpopular choices in office). Just a thought.> lm
Participation questions from this week's reading are related to - CHARACTER.
Your responses can be sent to drb@westbrancheyecare.com
1. After Saul, David, and Solomon, the kingdom was split. The northern kingdom, Israel, lasted for only 208 years before being taken captive by Assyria. The southern kingdom, Judah, lasted 346 years before the Babylonian captivity. How long has the United States existed? What caused the demise of Israel (2Kg.17:7-23) and Judah (2Kg.24)? What do you think God sees when He looks at the heart of the United States?
<-They turned from the Lord to false idols. They turned from the covenant... What did Billy Graham say, "If God does not judge America, He is going to have to apologize to Sodom and Gomorrah."> lm
<USA <233 years> The demise of Israel was brought on by quite a laundry list of offenses. "sinned against the Lord their God...feared other Gods" V7, secretly did ...things that were not right...built high places" v9, "set up...sacred pillars" v10, "served idols" v12, would not hear (the voice of the Lord)..."stiffened their necks" v14, "rejected His statutes and His covenant...followed idols, became idolaters..." v15, "left all the commandments of the Lord their God..." v16, practiced witchcraft and soothsaying, and sold themselves to do evil in the sight of the Lord..." V17 Judah: sinning against God and shedding of innocent blood. God probably sees little distinction between the United States and the Kingdoms of the Old Testament.> md
<Israel sinned against the Lord. The US is a mixed bag but as a whole clearly going in the wrong direction. I think the line in verse 23 applies to us, my understanding is that the presence of God has been shifting away from us and toward other areas such as Asia.> rt
2. How long and how well did Hezekiah and his son Manasseh reign? Do you think it would be easier to be a Hezekiah or a Manasseh? Which type of character comes the most naturally?
<- Hezekiah "did right in the sight of the LORD", "trusted in the LORD", "clung to the LORD; he did not depart from following Him, but kept His commandments" -Manasseh "did evil in the sight of the LORD", "erected altars for Baal and made an Asherah", "practiced witchcraft and used divination", "did much evil in the sight of the LORD provoking Him to anger" --It is more difficult to walk in righteousness, because you are going against the pattern of the world. I would also say that when you walk in righteousness, the reward is made known to you and well worth all the trouble.> lm
<Hezekiah was 25 when he became king and reigned 29yrs. He "did what was right in the sight of the Lord", 18:3 (good job on the high places) and trusted the Lord like no other king before or after him did. Manasseh became king at the rip old age of 12 and reigned 55yrs nearly doubling the reign of his Father. Why do the bad kings reign longer? He did evil in the sight of the Lord and rebuilt the high places his father had destroyed. Easier...Manasseh. It wouldn't require departing from anything in this world. Sinful nature.> md
<Manasseh ruled for 55 years and Hezekiah for 29 years. Its easier to be a Manasseh, just going along with what the people are doing. This comes more naturally. However, once Hezekiah was started I don't think he could turn back, he had his heart set on following the Lord..> rt
3. Describe the difference between 2 Kg.21:15 and 2 Kg.22:19. Can you choose which you will accomplish with your life? What did Josiah experience at the age of 18 that changed his life (1Kg.22:11)? What did he then do (1Kg.23)?
<- 2 Kings 21:15 (NASB) Because they have done evil in My sight, and have been provoking Me to anger since the day their fathers came from Egypt, even to this day. - 2 Kings 22:19 (NASB) because your heart was tender and you humbled yourself before the LORD when you heard what I spoke against this place and against its inhabitants that they should become a desolation and a curse, and you have torn your clothes and wept before Me, I truly have heard you,â declares the LORD. --You can choose to humble your heart and follow God or go your own way. Granted this is not easy to do, but we know the decision. What about the person that does not know God, they don't even know there is a choice to be made! 2 Kings 22:11 - 13 (NASB) When the king heard the words of the book of the law, he tore his clothes...for great is the wrath of the LORD that burns against us, because our fathers have not listened to the words of this book, to do according to all that is written concerning us. --It looks like Josiah had a turning of priorities. The Word spoke to Josiah and he saw their own misdeeds. - Josiah "did right in the sight of the LORD and walked in all the way of his father David, nor did he turn aside to the right or to the left." 2 Kings 22:2 - But in the eighteenth year of King Josiah, this Passover was observed to the LORD in Jerusalem. 2 Kings 23:23 --Josiah made the right decisions and choices to follow the words of the book.> lm
<I'm guessing you were referencing 2Kings? {another goof, sorry jb} 2Kg 21:15 - evil in God's sight 2Kg 22:19 - humble before the Lord. Josiah heard words from the Book of the Law. After hearing the Book of the Law read Josiah restored true worship. "He made a covenant before the Lord to follow the Lord and to keep His commandments...to perform the words of this covenant that were written in this book" 2kg23:3> md
<2 Kg 21:15 is prophesying destruction because they have walked away from the Lord and 2 Kg 22:19 is mercy for the Lord's servant who had a responsive heart and humbled himself. To a certain extent you can choose what you will accomplish with your life, however it's a privilege to be used by God, we cannot choose this we can only draw to him and put ourselves in a position where is able to use us. In 22:11 Josiah experienced remorse and in chapter 23 he acts on it by renewing the covenant.> rt
4. I consider 2 Kg.23:25 and 26 to be WOW verses. Ponder them, then tell me what they reveal to you about God. What do you see here?
<-Before him there was no king like him who turned to the LORD with all his heart and with all his soul and with all his might, according to all the law of Moses; nor did any like him arise after him. --That is pretty impressive... I thought Solomon was the greatest king? -However, the LORD did not turn from the fierceness of His great wrath with which His anger burned against Judah, because of all the provocations with which Manasseh had provoked Him. --Judah still had to pay for their missdeeds.> lm
<There is a difference between wisdom and obedience, knowing and doing> jb
<God is just. His wrath was given or awarded rightly. It was deserved. The Lord spoke through His prophets that "calamity would come upon Jerusalem and Judah" 2kg21:12 "For all the promises of God in Him are Yes, and in Him Amen..." 2Cor 1:20 Although Josiah restored worship of God, Manasseh did more evil in Judah than "the nations whom the Lord had destroyed before the children of Israel" (21:9) The Bible gives no account of Manasseh repenting before the Lord. Manasseh's sins before God affected the fate of an entire nation.> md
<There is mercy here but the people had messed up pretty bad and were going to feel the effects. What does this tell me about God? He is the God of mercy AND justice.> rt
<Many teach that obedience, and even repentance, force God's hand. There is only one God, and we're not Him. We don't love and obey because of what we get. We love and obey because He is God. Our future is what He says it is!> jb
<Additional comment: 2 Kings 18:7 "And the LORD was with him; he was successful in whatever he undertook". I can think of at least 4 other places in the Bible where it says the same thing.> rt
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April 26 - 1 Kings.21 - 2 Kings.17 <last post 5/3>
"...they feared the Lord but also served their own gods..." (2 Kings 17:33)
Are you tired of the Kings yet? We'll be reading about the same guys in 1st and 2nd Chronicles, so keep your enthusiasm up. History can be a bummer when people don't love the Lord. Even when we fear the Lord we might be serving our own gods. When the day comes that we're history, what will our story look like? What will God be saying about our brief time on the planet? Is there a difference between fear and love?
<Not really tired of the Kings. I've really enjoyed reflecting on the historical significance of the decisions each King made and how it affected the lives of those that followed, all the way up to present day. Good reminder... Sometimes it takes God telling me something 62 times before I catch on... :-) > md
I hope you've noticed all the references to High Places. I hope you're not reading past the references without looking into your own heart. "High places" are mentioned 62 times in the Old Testament and all but 19 of the references are in the books of Kings and Chronicles. It should become increasingly apparent that leaving the High Places does not please God. When you love (agape) someone, you want to please them. When you love (eros) someone, you want to be pleased.
Participation questions from this week's reading are related to - PLEASE GOD.
Your responses can be sent to drb@westbrancheyecare.com
1. Look at God's response to three events in the life Ahab; 1 Kg.20:42, 21:19, 21:29. What did Ahab do? Why? What did God think? Was the death of Ahab in 1Kg.22:34 random? Could it have been avoided?
<-Ahab had some tough times. In the first place it seems as though he did not do what he was told to do, in the second "you have sold yourself to do evil in the sight of the LORD", and in the third he humbled himself. I don't know that Ahab got a good deal with the passing on of his deserved evil to his family. -I don't think the death was random. The arrow must have been ordained to be so accurate and deadly.> lm
<An ill-advised treaty and murder were both condemned by God. In both cases Ahab was aware of the Lord's command, chose to ignore it, and followed his own desires. After his second "condemnation" Ahab chose to humble himself. The recorded biblical events with God's hand-print are never random. God is not a random. Avoided...sure...we're not puppets... :-) > md
<Ahab humbled himself with sackcloth, fasting, and "went around meekly" because he realized Elijah was speaking words from the Lord. God was pleased? with Ahab or at least very impressed with the turnaround. Apparently even Ahab was not beyond hope. The death of Ahab was not random and could not have been avoided. If you look at the preceding passage, God put his hand in to set up the circumstances that led to Ahab going off to war.> rt
2. How was the death of Ahaziah (2Kg.1:2,16) similar to the death of Asa (2Chr.16:12)? What would have pleased God in both cases? How is Jehoram's clinging problem (2Kg.3:3) similar to that of Ahaziah and Asa? Would they all have found benefit from Heb.12:1, one of my favorite scriptures? What were they 'clinging' to? What do you cling to? What would please God?
<-In both the cases, they did not seek the Lord. They chose alternative medicines! -They clung to what they knew best and in this case it was their own ways and sin. Heb 12:1, easily said, difficult to do. I also like the reference to "sin which so easily entangles us".... how true! It is right there, in front of us, yet we become entangled in it.> lm
<Both were stricken with physical ailments and chose not to put their trust in God. Seeking Him first would have been pleasing to God. Jehoram "clung" to behavoir that was modeled to him regardless of whether it was good and pleasing in His sight. Ahaziah also walked in the way of his family and predecessor. (father, mother, Jeroboam- 2Kings22:52) Asa did detour initially from illfated decisions "Asa did what was good and right in the eyes of the Lord (2 Chron 14:2) "removed the high places..." (14:5), but then chose the wide path once again. I often find myself clinging to the past rather than seeking ways to serve and seek the Lord in my current circumstances.> md
<Yes, the deaths of Ahaziah and Asa are similar both sought means other than going directly to God for healing. In the words of David in Psalm 25 "my eyes are ever on the Lord for only he will release my feet from the snare". While God would not use an idol for healing he does use physicians, science, and medicine. None of these kings could get beyond the bad influences of their fathers. They would have benefited from Hebrews 12, throwing off these things and going after God.> rt
3. Elijah is important enough in history to have joined Moses and Jesus on the Mount of Transfiguration. Elisha has his request for a double portion of the spirit of Elijah answered, and then performs twice as many miracles as Elijah. Then there's Gehazi, the servant of Elisha. Would you like to walk side by side with someone moving in the supernatural? Knowing that '"...bad company ruins good morals..." (1Cor.15:33), wouldn't you think that the reverse would put Gehazi in a pretty good place? What problem was revealed in 2Kg.5:15-27? Was Gehazi clinging to something? Who was Gehazi trying to please?
<-It seems quite tempting to walk along a prophet of God. -Gehazi did not follow the prophets direction. He let greed corrupt him. He decided that Elisha had let him off too easy and that he needed to pay. Gehazi ends up lying and getting cursed with leprosy. > lm
<Side by side...would definitely lead to some self examination. One would think that Gehazi was in an excellent place, but we can make poor choices regardless of whose shadow is falling on us. The problem that was revealed was greed. Gehazi seemed to be clinging to the faulty notion that one could "deserve" anything. He masks that he's doing it for Elisha, but his actions are self-pleasing.> md
<Yes, I would very much like to walk side by side with someone who is moving in the supernatural. Provided of course this person finishes well as we touched on somewhat in the last section. God put Gehazi in a pretty good place but apparently he was not picking up all that he should have. It appears he had his heart set on mammon more than what God was doing. I think its very clear that those who are moving in the supernatural are not to be doing so for money or selling their gifting. It would have been a sin for Elijah to take anything as Gehazi demonstrates.> rt
4. How long did King Azariah (Uzziah) rule over Judah (2Kg.15:2)? Was he good or bad (2Kg.15:3,4)? Was the Lord too harsh in 2Kg.15:5? Read the rest of the story in 2nd Chronicles 26:16. This is a great time to remind ourselves that we can read something incorrectly if we're not relating it to all God has said, and all the God is. Who did Uzziah try to please?
<-52 years, what a long time (longer than all the other kings?) -he did good, except that one thing... the pagan high places. We don't know when he got leprosy, was it the first year or last, so it is hard to determine. Yet who am I to determine if his judgment was right. -2 Chronicles helps paint the right picture., it seems like Uzziah was very proud.> lm
<God resists the proud and gives grace to the humble. Even Ahab, as bad as he was, received some measure of favor when he humbled himself.> jb
<Those tempting high places got the best of Azariah too...Good reminder to make sure we know the "rest of the story".> md
<Azariah ruled for 52 years and appears to be a turn for the good. However, after reading 2 Chronicles 26:16 he was very irreverent in the Lord's temple. I am actually surprised he didn't end up dead after pulling something like that in the Presence of God. Apparently this was a pride issue, he was trying to please himself?> rt
EXTRA CREDIT:
Why would God allow Elisha to die of a sickness (2Kg.13:14), then turn around and raise someone from the dead whose corpse touched that of the dead prophet (2Kg.13:21)?
<-As the marauders ride in, I believe the burial event was a reminder of who Elisha was and his prophecy of victory over Aram's forces.> lm
<to witness to Elisha's "supernatural life"....> md
<My opinion is it was to get their attention, now that's a powerful testimony. Also, to show them he was still God in the midst of the hard times.> rt
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April 19 - 1 Kings.3 - 1 Kings.20 <last post 4/29>
"...Hear the word which the Lord speaks to you ...learn not the way of the nations ...for the customs of the peoples are false..." Jeremiah 10:1,2,3
Reading about the kings of Israel and Judah as a history lesson can have the same effect as my old high school teacher's film strips. Lights down, head down, wake me up when its over. Bad kings, almost good kings, wake me up when something important happens. Since we'll be in this history mode for a while, don't forget to look beyond the facts - beyond the window.
John Eldredge, in his books The Sacred Romance, The Journey of Desire, Wild at Heart, and Waking the Dead has been promoting the positives of passion and human desire. He may be helping to bring real life back into dead religion, but.... What we read all through the Old Testament, and what we see in lives all around us, continue to reveal the dangers.
Participation questions from this week's reading are related to - DESIRE.
Reader responses are shown in brackets <>
1. RECAP: What was David's desire in 2Sam.7:1-14? Did he deal with it appropriately? What was David's desire in 2Sam.11? Did he deal with it appropriately?
<-to build a house for the LORD. -to have Bathsheba. --no he did not deal with it properly. He committed adultery and murder.> lm
<Some desires are easier to control than others, but self control must be exercised in all things! When God says no...> jb
<David's desire in 2 Sam 7 was to build a house for the Lord and he dealt with God's answer correctly. David did not deal correctly with Bathsheba. When God says no its always in our best interest to heed.> rt
<God sent a prophet to David before he proceeded with building the house, but after he had killed Bathsheba's husband. Why the difference?> jb
<This one is easy, God is not going to give you special revelation for something you already know. Building the temple was a much better question to be asking.> rt
2. Before David died, he charged Solomon to "...be strong ...show yourself a man ...keep the charge of the Lord ...walk in His ways..."(1Kg.2:2,3). When the Lord appeared to Solomon the first time (1Kg.3:5-9), what was Solomon's desire? How much time elapsed before the Lord appeared to Solomon the second time (1Kg.9:2)? What was Solomon's desire in 1Kg.11:1-10? What happened to cause this change in desire? How could this have been prevented?
<-The first desire: "an understanding heart to judge... to discern between good and evil" -20 years of planning, approvals, preparation and building. David seemed to have done something right here. -The second desire: "foreign women" It was not that he had all these ladies that he got into trouble, but that they were foreign women who turned his heart from God. It could have easily been prevented by sticking to "faithful" women.> lm
<The first time Solomon's desire was for wisdom. I believe the length of time was the building of the temple and then the Lord appeared to Solomon again. Solomon's desire was for women and then for their gods. The change was a gradual decline but could have been prevented if he has obeyed God and not intermarried.> rt
<I quess you can start out strong but finish poorly. What does it take to finish a marathon on your feet?> jb
<I have some opinions but I don't want to just answer quickly or lightly, I don't feel qualified to instruct a Solomon or a Samson.> rt
3. What did King Rehoboam desire in 1Kg.12:1-15? How did he get in trouble (v.8)? Why did he get in trouble (v.15)? What did King Jeroboam desire in 1Kg.12:25-27? What did it lead to? What desire would have prevented Jeroboam's failure (1Kg.14:8).
<-He desired to make the people's burdens worst. He seemed to have a pride issue. -The king did not listen to the people. He caused the division between north and south. -If he had followed the LORD, but "you also have done more evil than all who were before you, and have gone and made for yourself other gods and molten images to provoke Me to anger, and have cast Me behind your back” therefore behold, I am bringing calamity on the house of Jeroboam, and will cut off from Jeroboam every male person". The price tag was pretty steep!> lm
<Rehoboam desired riches at the expense of his people. He followed the advise of the younger people instead of the elder. In 1 Kg. 12 he desired the people back more than God and it led to a golden calf. Following God with all of his heart is the only path that would have prevented his failures.> rt
<There sure are a lot of things that can distract a person from the higher call.> jb
4. Just as Joshua had done, so Elijah put forth the challenge to all the people - "...How long will you hesitate between two opinions? If the Lord is God, follow Him; but if Baal, follow Him" (1Kg.18:21). Did they expect Baal to answer? Do people in 2009 expect their idols to deliver? Do you expect God to answer / deliver? What is your heart's desire?
<-They must have expected Baal to answer, otherwise what in the world were they doing there. --Out of our idols we expect meaning, purpose, power, etc. We are no better. Isn't this the point of our "head-nodding" history lesson. -I don't really expect God to deliver in the same way as he did Elijah. I do expect Him to work in more subtle ways. --My heart's desire is to... glorify Him??? is it really??? Am I not desiring for my own self-fulfillment instead? Seems like He still has some work to do in me!> lm
<Clearly the Baal prophets expected their god to answer. People 2009 do put their trust in other things which sometimes deliver and sometimes do not, such as the stock market. I expect God to answer and deliver but it's important to note that we see Elijah hearing God and obeying not out initiating on his own. My heart's desire has changed, I remember reading about the prophets when I was younger and thinking man that lifestyle was terrible. While clearly the cost was high, I now look at the other side and realize walking with God is more than worth it, he is our "great reward" Gen 15:1.> rt
EXTRA CREDIT
How can you explain 1Kngs.6:11-13, which falls between the 1st and 2nd appearances of God to Solomon? How can people walk faithfully between significant personal encounters with the Almighty?
<The explanation is simple, God wants to bless but cannot do so to people who are wandering to their own destruction. God's plan for us requires obedience. How can people walk faithfully between significant encounters with the Almighty? Staying humble and being accountable. If you look at church history, there are many people that God will use powerfully and then the people end up like Solomon, finishing so poorly. I remember the first time I read about Lonnie Frisbee and it made me sick.> rt
<When the Word of the Lord came to Solomon in 1Kg.6:11, it appears to be in between his 1st and 2nd encounters with God. Why is this not classified the same as his 1st and 2nd? Think about it.> jb
It's hard to imagine a man having 1000 wives. It isn't hard for a man to understand the desire that leads in that inappropriate direction. How has our culture made this possible for any man? What personal and community responsibility do you have in this issue? How are you doing?
< Its not possible in our culture to have 1,000 wives but its definitely possible to be more active than Solomon (athletes for example). Our responsibility is to treat women with respect, how does God see them?> rt
<I wonder how many UFOs an American man can see in print, cinema, internet, adult bookstores, etc. I bring this up because it is a major problem in our society, and in the community of believers. I pray you're all making choices that are wiser than Solomon's.> jb
<Additional question: In 1 Kings 17:6 God has ravens, an unclean bird bring him food. Was this okay because he was not eating the ravens? Or was this a way to test him?> rt
<This question is a great springboard for something very relevant to our time in history. If you remember, Elijah had more than one feeding - ravens (1Kg.17:6), the widow's last resources (1Kg.17:16), and the angel (1Kg.19:5-8). Which would you prefer? Would you reject the raven for religious reasons? Would you reject the widow for reasons of pride, or reasons of compassion? Can God provide for you in these economically uncertain times? Are you anxious about your life? Elijah was. The man who called down fire from heaven on more than one occasion "...was afraid and arose and ran..." (1Kg.19:3). How big is this God we're reading about? Are we getting a good look at Him?> jb
<It's interesting that you bring you the multiple feedings because principle would indicate you do eat from an unclean animal (right?)and definitely do not take food from a starving widow. Principles are good things. But Elijah was living from Presence, God was prompting these actions (and in the process stretching him). How about when David eats the Holy Bread in 1 Sam 21? Wasn't this only for priests? My opinion is that while these men where in desperate circumstances they were not acting out of desperation but following the answers God was giving them their uncertain times.> rt
NOTE: As we read further, pay attention to all the references to High Places. Ask for discernment regarding the High Places that exist today.
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April 12 - 2 Sam.4 - 1 Kings.2 <last post 4/21>
"...the Lord was moved by prayer for the land..." 2.Sam.24:25
Even a casual look at the life of David forces a person to acknowlege the considerable impact of culture on the way we live. I can't imagine killing people as he did, and yet he was replacing a king who God apparently rejected because of an incomplete slaughter. I have no intention of moving us into a dove vs hawk debate. I have no desire to defend or refute pacifism. I think, though, that there is great value in improving our perspective on cultural influences.
Participation questions from this week's reading are related to - CULTURE.
Reader responses are shown in brackets <>
1. RISE: "...David became greater and greater, for the Lord God of hosts was with him..." (2 Sam.5:10), but the culture wasn't fully cooperating. Like it or not, the Philistines were enemies of God's people. What valuable habit is found in 2.Sam.5:19,23 that helped David in his life? How could this be helpful in your life?
<-He asked of the LORD. And the LORD responded. I feel like I ask, all the time, but don't get the clear response David did. But perhaps, I'm too busy to listen anyway.> lm
<Asking first, this makes sense as God sees the big picture. Its definitely a learning process with success and failures but I think the important part is to remain teachable, learn from mistakes.> rt
2. FALL: David spotted a UFO in 2.Sam.11 (Unclad Female Object). A battle line was being drawn that wasn't as obvious as the Philistines. The culture wasn't fully cooperating with godliness. What habit did David forget? Why did he so easily recognize the 'perp' in Nathan's story (2 Sam.12:1-6), but not see clearly enough to prevent his actions against Bathsheba and Uriah? What do you think Joab and Bathsheba thought of King David? Do God's people in 2009 give "...occasion to the enemies of the Lord to blaspheme..." (2 Sam.12:14)?
<-This is what the word says in 2 Samuel 12:9 "Why have you despised the word of the LORD by doing evil in His sight? You have struck down Uriah the Hittite with the sword, have taken his wife to be your wife, and have killed him with the sword of the sons of Ammon." I don't imagine David set out to do evil and despise the word of the LORD. I bet this just kind of quickly came upon him. He sees her and lusts after her. He takes her. The story does not seem to be a lingering one. David, seems to take immediate action. Perhaps a pause would have been good? -Although David did kill Uriah, he seems to get a rather severe punishment. I think it is due to the despising the word of the LORD rather than killing another dude.> lm
<David had a big blindspot with women, these were not the only bad results. Chapter 11 starts off "In the spring, at the time when kings go off to war...but David stayed in Jerusalem", apparently the saying about idle hands being the devil's workshop has some truth. Nathan's story slid under David's radar, that's the great part about stories. This happens to me sometimes when I am watching movies.> rt
3. RECONCILIATION: It's pretty amazing that Solomon, the son of a relationship that should never have existed, had a place in the line of Jesus (Matt.1:6,7). But even this great act of redemption didn't occur without a significant cultural conflict along the way. The American political process may be full of spinning and smearing, but a lot of the world still has violent, bloody power struggles similar to David's culture. Which sons of David had ambitions for rulership? How do you think Solomon felt during these years? What advice did David have for Solomon in 1 Kings.2:1-4?
<-I thought this was pretty funny: "Now Adonijah the son of Haggith exalted himself, saying, "I will be king." You can just see it happening and the Jerry Springeresque fight starting. -Solomon probably knew there was a fight coming, but David seems to make it pretty clear that Solomon was going to be king. I bet Solomon was afraid for his life.> lm
<Adonijah had ambitions but quick thinking and boldness saved Solomon. Solomon probably had problems disassociating himself with the sin. David advises Solomon to keep the commands and walk faithfully before the Lord with all of his heart and soul.> rt
4. Ask God which forces of your culture are the most dangerous to your well-being. What must you confront to RISE? What must you avoid to prevent FALLing? What must you patiently endure as the RECONCILIATION of God takes you into your future with Him?
<-The culture is a tough challenge. Mostly it is sad, very sad. The values and principles are that of lost people. People who don't know what they don't have. People who are depraved and given to their own lusts. -I must remain focused on what really matters, retain hope, and live for God daily. If I lose sight of this, my life can be just as sad.> lm
<Like David with women and Americans in the 1700s who loved the Lord and kept slaves, I am sure we have cultural blindspots. I would much rather that God dealt with me before I fall.> rt
Join me in prayer - for each other, for our culture, for our land. We just may find that we have moved the Lord.
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April 5 - 1 Sam.13 - 2 Sam.3 <last post 4/10>
"...for I know the plans I have for you..." (Jeremiah 29:11)
This often quoted passage gets a lot of mileage with regard to God's call. To be fair to scripture, we shouldn't condense it to merely intentions and plans. The context also represents the need for perserverence. The intentions and plans are rarely, if ever, instantaneous. There can be major gaps between initiation and completion.
Participation questions from this week's reading are related to - PERSERVERENCE.
Reader responses are shown in brackets <>
1. In our earlier reading in Genesis 37-45, Joseph had a glimpse of the future. Did God have a plan? Did Joseph know what it was? What was required of Joseph? How was the plan fulfilled?
<-God did have a plan. Joseph testified to that in the end in Gen 45:8. "Now, therefore, it was not you who sent me here, but God" -Joseph had some tough times to endure. It seemed like he did it with the utmost Christian character. Joseph had to endure in his faith. That those tough times, and seemingly impossible situations were of God's plan. I would have liked to have heard Joseph's thoughts as he was being thrown in the pit or as he was sitting in jail all those years!> lm
<Yes, God had a plan. How much Joseph understood is hard to say, I am sure he had moments of clarity and other times when he not nearly as sure. Joseph had to be faithful even in circumstances that appeared to directly contradict what God had said to him.> rt
2. This week's reading covers an interesting stretch of David's life. What was God's plan (1Sam.13:14, 16:12)? Did David know what it was? What was required of David - what was the road like between initiation and completion? How was the plan fulfilled?
<-David was to be king! Apparently David was faithful (a man after [God's] own heart) and pretty darn good looking (he was ruddy, with beautiful eyes and a handsome appearance). -Samuel told him and anointed him, so he knew. The road was very difficult and long. -King David finally fulfills the plans in the end.> lm
<The Lord sought out a man after his own heart and David knew when Samuel anointed him king. However, in the 10-13 years after he faced circumstances that directly contradicted the word of the Lord. I am sure the low point being when Ziklag was burned and “David was greatly distressed because the men were talking of stoning him” (I Sam 30:6). Common theme here, God gives a word and then the situations go 180 degrees in the opposite direction. Joseph sees his brothers bow down before him and then instead of going up the ladder he goes down into slavery and then jail. David is appointed king over Israel but 10 years later he is still running for his life. However, God’s plan was fulfilled through these situations. It was through jail that Joseph came in contact with Pharaoh. Right after David’s darkest moment was when he assumed the throne. Because these people were faithful when everything around them collapsed and when they were in the worst possible circumstances God was able to fulfill his destiny for them.> rt
3. Does God have a plan for your life? Do you know what it is and/or when it will be manifested? What is required of you between now and then?
<-Yes he does. The book "Grand Weaver" by Ravi was a good choice for a gift. -I believe I'm starting to get a glimpse of what it might be. -The thing that is required is faithfulness. Faithfulness in God and His plans (which does require action from me at times). The rest will work itself out.> lm
<Yes, God has a plan for my life. I do not know when it will be fulfilled but I do know that obedience and faithfulness are the keys to getting there Remembering not only that nothing can happen to me unless God allows it (Job) but that the current situations have been chosen by God to mold me into the man that will accomplish his purposes. This is the test God is sending me right now, will I come through?> rt
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS / QUESTIONS:
"...God sees not as man sees, for man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart..." (1 Sam.16:7)
The Hebrew word nacham is found in Gen.6:7 (preflood), Ex.32:12,14 (postgoldencalf), and 1Sam.15:11 (Saul). It means to sigh, i.e. breathe strongly; by impl. to be sorry. Your preferred translation may use regret, grieve, or repent. Did God make a mistake picking Saul as king 1Sam.9:15,16)? What does God see, and what is His response when He looks at you?
<-Saul was the man for the time. He was their first king. Saul has his faults and goes astray, but the only reason Israel even got a king was because they went astray in the first place. 1 Samuel 8:7-8 (NASB) The LORD said to Samuel, "Listen to the voice of the people in regard to all that they say to you, for they have not rejected you, but they have rejected Me from being king over them. Like all the deeds which they have done since the day that I brought them up from Egypt even to this day” in that they have forsaken Me and served other gods” so they are doing to you also. -I hope that God's response to me would be different, but I'm afraid at times it is no different.> lm
<1 Sam 16:7 is a good summary. It’s very interesting to note the difference between the way man sees people and situations and the way God sees them. Contrast Joseph/David/Gideon the way the people around them saw them verses how God did. It’s entirely possible that God sees far more in his people than we see in ourselves and others.> rt
What surprised you about David's life - good or bad? What was David's response in the midst of chaos (1Sam.30:6)? How do you find strength when the world around you gets crazy?
<-It seems as though David was tremendously faithful, but then it started to fade away. -For me, the best thing is to write it out. I guess it gives me better perspective on what is really going on and how severe it is.> lm
<What surprises me about David’s life is how much rejection he took in the interim years and how close he consistently lived to death. He is constantly in the thick of bad, sticky situations. As an American with a high value of comfort, I find it hard to imagine living day in and day out this way. ----- “But David found strength in the Lord his God”. The Bible does not say what specific actions David took here but we do know that because David was finding his strength from God that he was able to come through when he was opposed by all else. How do I find strength in God? For one, the Bible warns about being anxious and fretting for good reason. If I am not able to dial myself down and hear what God is speaking to me during quiet time then there is no way I will be able to do it when I am out and the world around me gets crazy. ----- Uncle Jim, How do you strengthen yourself in the Lord? Or is this more of a stew over it on your own question because a good response would cover many pages?> rt
<I love the Bible, I read it a lot, and God usually speaks to me from its pages. I love to be with God's people, I do it regularly, and God usually speaks to me through services and small groups. These are like snacks, though, compared to the strengthening feast of being in God's presence. And yes, it is something we can talk about when we have an afternoon together.> jb
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March 29 - Judg. 13 - 1 Sam. 12 <last post 4/6>
"... those who hunger and thirst for righteousness ... shall be satisfied..." (Matt.5:6)
The Hebrew word nephesh is translated as appetite, desire, or lust. It is a type of inherent animal vitality. There doesn't seem to be a Greek word that translates well to appetite, though there are words for lust and desire. Einai is the Greek word translated in Matthew 5 as hunger. It implies a bit more intensity than simple hunger, and is sometimes translated to lust after.
Appetite is technically a desire to eat food. Adam and Eve ran into some difficulty in the Garden because of appetites (Gen.3:6). Esau lost out on his inheritance because of his appetite (Gen.25:31-34). A lot of Israelites died because of their appetites (Num.11:33). For this week's study I'd like you to think of appetite in much broader terms. Just as we can hunger for righteousness, I think we can develop appetites for non-food things. A bit of advice - control your appetite!
Participation questions from this week's reading are related to - APPETITE.
Reader responses are shown in brackets <>
1. Samson was dedicated to the Lord from birth and he was stirred by the Spirit of the Lord. How was Samson gifted by God? How did he use the gift? What appetite controlled Samson? Why did Samson reveal his secret to Delilah (Judges 16:15-17)? How can one so gifted become so blind? In what way are you gifted, but blind because of appetite?
<-Stunning good looks and great hair! Is there no greater gift than to have the indwelling holy spirit. - Apparently, Sampson had great strength and was hungry for the ladies. This sounds like a recipe for disaster. My only guess is that our lust "appetite" can be quite all-consuming. -I'm sure I'm blind, but my vision is blurry at at the moment.> lm
<Careless with women, careless with the gift. Women are one of many possible distractions. As you optometrists say - which is better, one or two. Choose> ar
<Samson's gift was his physical strength but his weakness was his uncontrolled appetite for women. Delilah wore him down with constant nagging. You would think after she tried to burn him a few times he would realize that she could not be trusted, How can one so gifted become so blind? I think its a greater temptation for the gifted, they begin to see themselves as something special instead of remembering the Source. What are our blindspots? It usually takes a disaster to wake us up.> rt
2. According to scripture, what type of men surrounded the house in Judges 19:22? What type of appetite did they have? Evil practices result in the destruction of many, many lives. Were the people of Benjamin aware of the significance/consequences of their actions (Judges 20:34)? What was the prevailing attitude of the time (Judges 21:25)? How will the appetites of your countrymen affect your future? How will your appetite affect the future of your countrymen?
<- wicked men, hungry for men. Sounds just like Sodom and Gomorrah. -It does not seem like the Benjaminites knew what was coming. -"everyone did what was right in his own eyes" this is pretty scary stuff. No regard for God, no regard for others. Only regard for self--not good. -I hope that I keep others above myself.> lm
<Men love darkness rather than light. The country suffers great harm.> ar
<Wicked men surrounded the house, people were doing as they saw fit. Yes the attitudes of our countrymen will affect our future.> rt
3. "...for those who honor Me I will honor, and those who despise Me will be lightly esteemed..." (1 Samuel 2:30). Eli was the priest, but his sons "did not walk in his ways". For what did they have an appetite (1 Sam.8:3)? For what did the people have an appetite (1 Sam.8:5) and how was it a rejection of God's plans for them?
<- I wondered about this... How did Eli allow his son's to go astray? Was he a bad dad? Did he not train up his children? - "dishonest gain and took bribes and perverted justice" - seems like modern day politicians! -Samuel's sons were in-line to judge Israel, but their corruption was too much.> lm
<They hungered for what their world offered. We do the same. They wanted someone to take care of them (king). Americans do the same (government).> ar
<Eli's sons had an appetite for dishonest gain and the people had an appetite for a king like the other nations. God planned to rule over them in a more direct manner.> rt
4. On what did Samuel base his hope, even though the nation's wickedness was great in the sight of the Lord..." (1 Sam.12: 20,21)? How is verse 21 a reference to appetite? For what futile, useless, and empty things does your culture have an appetite? On what do you base your hope?
<-Samuel said to the people, "do not turn aside from following the LORD, but serve the LORD with all your heart." Samuel put his hope in the Lord's faithfulness. - I do like the next verse "You must not turn aside, for then you would go after futile things which can not profit or deliver". We often have the wrong focus "appetite". I think we're often left hungry and that is why the world is so starved.> lm
<My hope is based on nothing less than Jesus blood and righteousness.> ar
<"For the sake of His great name the Lord will not reject his people" and "Serve the Lord with all your heart" is what Samuel based his hope on. As we read earlier with Jacob God is "our great reward" everything that is not through him is empty.> rt
ADDITIONAL QUESTION:
<What do you think the hunger of Matt.5:6 looks like? What is the satisfaction?> jb
<I think that there are a number of signs of hungering and thirsting for righteousness. Placing God first with time and tithe, fasting, reading the Bible and calling out to Him, stepping out and taking risks, allowing him to be Lord, loving who are placed around you. I guess it boils down to having no other gods before him, having a loose grip on all else, ready to place it down in a instant if something is getting in the way.> rt
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March 22 - Josh.19 - Judg. 12 <last post 3/28>
"...So take diligent heed to yourselves to love the Lord your God..." (Josh.23:11)
His part! Our part! Do we know the difference? Joshua reminded the people that "...the Lord your God is He who has been fighting for you.." (Josh.23:3), then warned that "...when you transgress the covenant ... you will perish quickly..." (Josh.23:16). It was Joshua who spoke the often quoted phrase "...as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord..." (Josh 24:15).
Participation questions from this week's reading are related to - MY PART!
Your responses are shown in brackets <>
1. A people of promise were entering the promised land. You wouldn't think that this would be the advent of such a tumultuous time. It may seem odd to some that the promised land had to be possessed. What work was still unfinished? What work remains for people who enter into God's promises today?
<-They had a couple things to do as the took possession of the promise land
1. They had to get up and take it. Josh 1:1-3
2. They had to fight against (annialate) the enemies of God. Josh 1:5-6
3. They had to remember the law. Josh 1:7-8
4. They had to remember their God. Josh 1:9
-In the end you could say that left unfinished parts 1-4!
-We also have lots of work left (Sanctification).> lm
<They had to go to war and kick their enemies out, which was a difficult task. What work remains for people to enter God's promises today? Obedience, if we are not receiving God’s promises the problem is not on His end.> rt
2. Incomplete obedience = disobedience. Obedience minus anything = disobedience. Both equations say the same thing and have the same results. What was the problem and the consequence described in Judges 2:1-3? After Joshua's death, "...there arose another generation after them who did not know the Lord..." (Judg.2:10). What is the implied problem? How does this problem still exist?
<-The Israelites "have not obeyed [God]" and "[The inhabitants] will become as thorns in your sides and their gods will be a snare to you.. This is pretty bad stuff for the promised people (If only they had followed my simple 4 step process!) -The implied problem is that they did not know (or follow) the Lord. They were not obedient. We are not obedient. How simple the solution is!> lm
<The Israelites did not drive out the Canaanites as they were instructed. The phrase because they were determined to live there is frequently used. Apparently the Canaanites were more determined than the Israelites. The consequence is the angel of the Lord refuses to drive out the Canaanites (lets Israel have their own way) and the people will become a snare to them. Implied problem is that the generation will go their own way instead of God's and reap what they have sown. The problem still exists, God does not force obediance and we live with the consequences of our choices.> rt
3. The cyclical nature of human existence has been evident throughout all history. What was God's involvement in Judg.2:14-16? What was the response of the people in Judg. 2:17,19? The people in Judg.10:15-16 recognized their sin, "put away the foreign gods from among them and served the Lord". What gods need to be put away in 2009? What is God asking of you?
<- Judges 2:19 - 20 (NASB) "[Israel] would turn back and act more corruptly than their fathers, in following other gods to serve them and bow down to them; they did not abandon their practices or their stubborn ways. So the anger of the LORD burned against Israel" -Despite our very best efforts we, fallen people, are going to act in a disobedient manner. Therefore, it seems like the confession of sin like the disobedient followers in Joshua 10: .We have sinned", is all that is needed. Note they also seem ready to receive some kind of punishment for their disobedience as part of their repentance: "do to us whatever seems good to You". I might confess, but I'm not always ready for the consequences!> lm
<Yes, this cyclical pattern of things go well people turn away from God and then turn back to him when things start going badly. This has definitely been a pattern in my life, I seek God the hardest when I need something and have pushed him toward the back when things are going well. It does bother me, how does He feel about this when the only time people draw near is when they want something from HIm?> rt
4. How did Gideon's view of himself (Judg.6:15) differ from God's view (Judg.6:12)? What was Gideon's part (Judg.6:14)? What was God's part (Judg.6:16)? What were the odds that Gideon faced when God pared his army down to 300? Does God still raise up individuals for the good of His people? Have you ever felt outnumbered, as if the odds are overwhelmingly against you? Will God do His part if you do yours?
<-Gidean does not realize that the power of God is with him. -I think Gideon's questioning of God is natural. He is wondering why things are so bad. And then he is looking at himself and wondering 'how am I going to do this great task?' Often it is had to see past our present difficult circumstances. -We can find great confidence in the fact that the LORD says .Surely I will be with you". There is no greater confidence.> lm
<Yes, God saw in Gideon what he had trouble seeing in himself. Gideon's part was to "go in the strength you have". God's part was to be with him and to strike down all the Midianites. Gideon's odds on his own were 0% and 100% with Him. Yes, God still raises up individuals for the good of His people, I am thinking how at every point in my life and every place I have lived the people God has placed people in my life. Yes, I have felt like the odds were stacked against me at numberous places in my life. During these times I pray the Psalms "though an army camps around me I wil not fear". Such as right now my department has been paired down to less than half of what is was last summer. Gideon's word is good for hard situations "Go in the strength you have" (use everything at your disposal) and "I will be with you" (He will never leave).> rt
ADDITIONAL COMMENT:
Did you notice the community reference in Joshua 22:18 - another indication that we're not independent beings? Our choices affect others. Their choices affect us. We're in this together.
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March 15 - Deut.30 - Josh.18 <last post 3/17>
"...it is not too difficult ...or out of reach ...the word is very near you ...choose life..." (Deut.30,11,14,19)
The end of Deuteronomy is the conclusion of the portion of the Bible referred to as the Law. We've already gone 500 years past the halfway point of Biblical history - Jacob & Esau. Another 500 years and we'll be at the halfway point of all recorded history - the rule of David. Take a minute to ponder your place in history. Keep this historical perspective as you go about your daily life.
Participation questions from this week's reading are related to - HIS WORD!
Your responses are shown in brackets <>
1. God's work is perfect, for all His ways are just. He set the boundaries. They are a nation lacking in counsel, and there is no understanding in them. (Deut.32,4,8,28) What was Moses' warning to the Israelites in Deut.32:45-47? The New American Standard translates the Hebrew words 'reyq dabar' as 'idle word'. Others translate reyq as empty, worthless, or vain and dabar as word, matter, or cause. How do Americans typically treat the Law, the matter of God? How about you?
<- The Israelites were to live by the word (the law). Prosperity was to come by following the law.
- Today the law (secular) is largely ignored in society. And God's law is chastized. - I'm trying to determine the balance between OT law and NT grace. Obviously there is connection, but what laws to keep and what laws to put away. And the most important aspect, what is the right purpose/ attitude in keeping them if any? For all the law points to our own sinfulness and not our own salvation, yet we are called to be holy?> lm
<Moses’ warning is to take the words to heart and so that you may command your children to obey them. I would say on the whole Americans tend to follow the law but do take exceptions. I like to think that I am doing a pretty good job here but people around me would be better at picking out my “blind spots”.> rt
<Idle as in going nowhere? That would be how our culture looks at biblical text and God. It's sometimes hard to not get pulled into this foolish pattern of living> ar
2. How does the deliverance of the Jewish people from bondage and their entrance into Canaan parallel your journey? How is the advice to Joshua in Josh.1:8-9 valuable to you today? What evidence is there '...that the living God is among you.' (Josh.3:10) and '...that the hand of the Lord is mighty.' (Josh.4:24)?
<- God's charge to Joshua is just as applicable to today as it was back then. - personal questions??? Let me see, I thought about building a stone mound in my yard, but I went with the Christian bumper sticker instead! The best thing I could say is my own testimony of how God has and continues to change me.> lm
<Yes, despite being able to see how God has always been with me and a provider I still sometimes complain and don't remember that God knows what he is doing. The advice is Joshua 1:8-9 is valuable, meditating on God's word helps set the internals correct, healthy thinking. Focusing on a big God helps put problems in their perspective. What evidence is there that God is with us? I think most of the time we do not see how God has been working until afterwards looking back in the rearview mirror and then its pretty clear. I would say there is a lot of evidence that God is living among us. Answers to prayer, situations that shift 180 degrees after praying for them.> rt
<From bondage to freedom. From captivity in the dominant world system to frustration with a "delivered people" who don't get it, don't live it, don't know it. Yup, pretty much sums up my life. We need his hand and his might here and now.> ar
3. The instructions in Josh.6:16-19 seemed quite clear. How could Achan be so foolish in Josh.7:1? How did one man's rebellion affect the entire community (Josh.7:12)? How might this explain the current status of Christian influence in our society? To continue the line of thinking from last week - is this an individual or community issue? How does this speak against the commonly expressed notions that 'my business is my business' or 'what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas'?
<- All I can say is that God is serious about what He says. And we are selfish. It is not a good combination for us. - Christian influence in society??? Should we expect to have great influence in society or should we expect to be marginalized? I think the later, but I don't have the scriptures to support it. - Indivduals make up the community, so my business affects the communities business.> lm
<Clearly Achan was not thinking correctly, he may have been temporarily blinded by wealth? I suspect he didn't just break, I bet there were some shadier business deals where he tried to cut corners before. How might this explain the status of Christian influence in our society? I look at this as just as it took only one corrupt person to effect Israel, it only takes one Christian living different to effect the work place or other sphere of influence. Having different values, even just things like being friends with the coworker everyone else rips on or driving an older car then everyone else in your position. Why would he do that? These are both individual and community issues, I believe lm pointed out that individuals make up a community. So my business is not 'just my business'. Think of the butterfly effect.> rt
<Ineffective because of "sin in the ranks"? Duh!> ar
4. History has revealed that God judges the affairs of men. "...Noah ...all that God had commanded him, so he did" (Gen.6:22). "...God remembered Abraham, and sent Lot out of the midst of the overthrow..." (Gen.19:29). "...Joshua ... left nothing undone of all that the Lord had commanded Moses..." (Josh.11:15). Sinful men died at the hand of God.
History has revealed that God took the judgement we deserved. " ... All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all..." ( Isaiah 53:6). God died at the hands of sinful men. Are you doing 'all that God has commanded'? How, in this crazy chaotic world can you find your way (Psa.119:9-16)?
<- good stuff, now we just need to go out and do it. That is where is starts to get hard. We need to reprioritize our lives to make this happen. > lm
<Am I doing all that God has commanded? Per the Sermon on the Mount, no. According to Psalm 119, seeking Him with all our hearts, living according to His word, meditating on His precepts and rejoicing in obedience. Lord I am delighted to obey you in this matter verses I will do it if I must.> rt
<I was just getting going on a good rant and you go and put it back in my lap. His way, my choice> ar
ADDITIONAL QUESTION:
How do 30,000 warriers sneak into position to ambush a city without anyone noticing (Josh.8:3,4)?
<-It was before they had InfraRed (IR) detectors!> lm
<Apparently they were close enough that they could see Joshua raising his spear as the sign even though Joshua was with the soldiers who were driven back. Isn't there a question during translation about Hebrew numbers? I am wondering this was not 30,000 warriors.> rt
<The Bible Knowledge Commentary says there were large rocks in the area that would conceal them [I'm guessing that 30,000 would require a few mountains!]. The number was translated wrong [I haven't found reliable evidence of this]. Personally, I think it was the reverse of the 2 Kings 6:17 event. There are many modern day testimonies about God closing the eyes of border guards, enforcers, and other enemies of the Gospel. We live in a natural world, but reality contains things we don't always see or understand.> jb
<I bet hollywood could figure it out.> ar
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March 8 - Deut.8 - Deut.29 <last post 3/11>
"...every man doing whatever is right in his own eyes... " (Deut.12:8)
Individualism is the norm in Western civilization. This perspective strongly affects the way we read the Bible, the way we live our lives, and the way we treat others. This is a great time to remind ourselves that God wants a people - plural. God desires to reveal Himself to the world through a community. Like it or not, we're on this planet together. Our boat sinks or floats with us in it, together. We journey to the end - together. Welcome aboard, pilgrim.
Participation questions from this week's reading are related to - COMMUNITY!
Your responses are shown in brackets <>
1. What happens when we "...forget the Lord..." (Deut.8:11-20)? Have you experienced or witnessed what is described here? Do you think 'individual' or 'nation' when you read this passage? How do other countries view the U.S. of A.?
<-we become proud and will perish. -I think national USA. -Some good (like a savior) some bad (like satan)> lm
<When I forget the Lord I do not realize it (of course). Something (usually bad) has to blindside me in order to wake me up. So yes, I have experienced this. When I read this passage I think individual but it applies to nations as well.> rt
2. What similarity do you see between Deut.13:3 and Deut.8:2? Do you think 'individual' or 'nation' when you read this passage? Does God know the heart of our nation? Do we? What difference might it make to think in terms of 'us' rather than 'them'? Which way did Moses think (Psa.106:23, Deut.9:18)?
<-The testing to determine the faithful (a.k.a. know what is in your heart). -Individual -I suppose God does know the heart of our nation and it appears to be wicked! -Are we salt in a jar or are we salt on the meat? One is useless, one is working. In the same way are we approaching the USA as "us" or "them". Us = being part of the solution. Them = being part of the problem. -Moses was definitely part of the "us". He cared and nurtured for the nation.> lm
<The similarity is that both passages say that testing brings out what is in the heart. How much do you love God, will you choose Him? God knows the heart of us and our nation (Psalm 139). We might but not as well as God does. I think we should think in terms of us, because we are a part of humankind. In Ezekiel God refers to him as a watchman and indicates if he does not warn then their blood will be on his hands. From these passages it sounds more like Moses and “them” rather than “us”. While Moses walked with God and was clearly a cut above he still considered himself as part of the nation and spent himself on their behalf whether or not they deserved it, whether or not they were appreciative.> rt
3. Why the difference between Deut.15:4 and Deut.15:11? Is this an 'individual' or 'community issue'? How are our judges and officers doing (Deut.16:18,19)? Is it easier to criticize or pray for leaders? Which can you be found doing? Which is best for the community?
<-verse 4-5 deals with the bounty of the nation, while verse 11 deals with the poor individual. -This appears to be a national issue, yet the nation is really the people and the people are individuals. The individuals have the responsibility to "listen obediently to the voice of the LORD your God, to observe carefully all this commandment which I am commanding you today." -Honestly, I do not pray for or criticize our nation (unless by praying for the individuals, I'm actually praying for the nation!). Praying is obviously the way to go.> lm
<The difference between Deut 15:4 and 15:11 is probably one of those things were the two variations are not contradictory in Hebrew thought (Prov 26:4-5). I would say there should be no poor but the ideal will not be met. Its both an individual and community sense. Our judges are not perfect but are way less corrupt than say Russia or Mexico. Its way easier to criticize leaders plus its easy to see where other people who are trying mess up, hindsight is 20/20. I tend to pray more for those I know than leaders but I should be praying for them also.> rt
4. There are a lot of laws that have been enacted in the United States. What is the purpose of these laws? There are a lot of laws recorded in Deuteronomy. What is the purpose of these laws (Deut.26:18,19)?
<-I think the laws of the USA are mostly geared to provide life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.
-The laws of Deuteronomy are there to set apart the nation and to be a constant reminder of who they are.> lm
<The reasoning behind the laws in our nation is to give as much freedom as possible to people but keep them from infringing on the freedoms/rights of others. The purpose of Deuteronomy is to keep the people holy – set apart for God.> rt
5. Why the pestilence, consumption, fever, inflammation of Deut.28:21-22, the boils, tumors, scab, itch, madness, blindness, bewilderment of Deut.28:27,28, and the severe and lasting plagues, miserable and chronic sickness of Deut.28:59? Do you see any of these in our community? Are you "...driven mad by the sight of what you see..." (Deut.28:34)? ...walk ...love ...serve ...keep (Deut.10:12,13) ...follow ...fear ...keep ...listen ...serve ...cling (Deut.13:4). Is it really that simple - a blessing if we listen (Deut.11:27) or a curse if we don't (Deut.11:28)? Is this blessing on individuals or communities?
<-The curses are there if you don't obey the LORD and we are in pretty sad shape. -I don't know that this drives me mad, but it certainly makes me want to cry from time to time. -The blessing is for the nation, but it lives and dies on the individuals. The individuals are the nation!> lm
<The curses happen when people walk away from God, this makes sense when people choose to walk away from the Creator and the way things are supposed to be to conforming to a sick world that they would literally be sick. Even with all the medical advances we have these in our community. Does this still apply? I think yes but no its not that simple. The whole world is broken and bad things happen to good people and vice versa. I think if we would seek God as a community with all our hearts (it would be costly) we would see a lot more blessing, things like healings would be much more frequent. There’s some pretty amazing stuff in the book of Acts and God is no less capable today, He loves us just as much. I believe we experience less b/c the problem is on our end not His.> rt
<Additional comment Psalm 91:7-8 “A thousand may fall at our side, ten thousand at your right hand, but it will not come near you. You will only observe with your eyes and see the punishment of the wicked”> rt
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March 1 - Num.28 - Deu.7 <last post 3/6>
"...You shall not defile the land in which you live..." (Num.35:34)
As we move into Deuteronomy, we'll be getting a refresher course on things we've already read. This is consistent with God's challenge to remember; Who we were (Deut.5:15), What God has done (Deut.7:18), Our source (Deut.8:18), How to live (Num.15:40), and Keep a day holy (Ex.20:8).
I frequently underline verbs in my Bible because they are a call to action. I can then spot them quickly to remember my responsibilities. Some verbs from Deut. 6 and 7: ... fear ...keep ...hear ...teach ...watch ...remember ...listen ...do
Participation questions from this week's reading are related to - AMERICAN IDOLS!
Your responses are shown in brackets <>
1. What was the sin of Israel that led to 24,000 dying by plague (Num.25:1-9)? Who played a role in this debacle (Num.31:16). How does this judgement compare to that which was carried out on the faithless generation in Num.14:22,23,36? How do these two situations explain the concern Moses had in Num.32:7? What common thread runs through all three?
<prostitution with the women of Moab / Balaam / Both judgments were death by the plague... (Num. 14:37) The men who brought the evil report died by the plague in the wilderness never to see the promised land. / Moses was in tune with God's plan. God had designated Caanan for the Israelites and called them to cross over and lay claim to the land. The children of Reuben and Gad were "deviating". Moses' concern came from his good memory of what happens when we decide to make our own plans and fail to remember the promises and directives of God. / Our actions will have calamitous consequences when we operate outside of the will of God. So...trust and obey. > md
-They begain to worship a foriegn God. The women of Poer are mentioned again and many were killed, but it is the officers of the army, who were lead astray! The faithless generation was denied the promise land and left to die in the wilderness. Moses is afraid that the people will be killed for their disbelief. -Disobedience (a.k.a. lack of faith) leads to death. On the onset, this seems the opposite of grace. But this is not true. In their disoobedience they are rejecting God and turning from Him often to false idols. But they are repeatedly allowed and encouraged by Moses to not forget God and remember to Him.> lm
<Worshipping Baal and sexual immorality led to the plaque. The Midianite women caused the debacle. Should this be Num 14:22,23? <2nd mistake in two months. sorry.jb> The judgement is similar, cut off from the promised land. Moses concern in Num 32:7 is that the Israelites will be discouraged from entering the promised land because of the opposition. The common thread is that other nations around them are in conflict with what God has for Israel.> rt
<His way. No other. No distractions. No compromise.> ar
2. What kind of commitment would it take to fulfill the instructions concerning offerings in Num. 28,29? What kind of commitment did it take for Christ to fulfill the requirements on His life (Heb.9:11-28). What kind of commitment will it take for you to fulfill the requirements on your life (Deut.4:29)? What could get in the way of completing your task?
<Complete, undivided, exhaustive commitment. / All that He had. All that He was. / "seek Him with all your heart and with all your soul". Undivided. Number one priority must be seeking Him. No compromises. A daily commitment to keeping the main thing the main thing... / What doesn't??? Focusing on the natural vs. the supernatural.> md
<-You would have to be very diligent. It was necessary that He be sacrificed. -The commitment is large "keep your soul diligenty" "watch yourself carefully". These are not whimpy commands. Additionally, I am surprised how often the Israelities are reminded to follow the LORD. I would think that after all the miricles, they would be strict obedient followers. But how quickly they and we fall away! --Everything can get in the way. Especially, the local customs of pagan worship. This is why it is so important to remember: Deut 4:13-14 .So He declared to you His covenant which He commanded you to perform, that is, the Ten Commandments; and He wrote them on two tablets of stone. The LORD commanded me at that time to teach you statutes and judgments, that you might perform them in the land where you are going over to possess it."> lm
<The commitment is regularly costly in both time and possessions. It took Jesus own blood to fulfill the requirement of sin. The commitment it takes from us is seeking him with "all your heart and with all your soul" (Deut 4:29 and Jer 29:13). The pearl of great price is what it costs us and the cost is continual. Setting our everyday life before Him and offering our selves as "living sacrifices" (Rom 12:1). According to Matthew 13, the parable of the four soils, there are 3 reasons why people do not grow or produce in their life with Christ. (1) "the evil one comes and snatches away what was sown" (2) some quit when it gets hard "when trouble or persecution comes" and (3) our everyday life gets in the way "worries of life and deceitfulness of wealth".> rt
<Commitment? I thought the popular, highly attended churches preach getting (except for offering time). Ha! Without commitment, nothing of substance happens. Not in education. Not in business. Not in relationships. Not in this world. Not in the heavens. God is committed. So must I be> ar
3. In the recap of the exodus, an interesting statement is made: "... The Lord had also executed judgments on their gods..." (Num. 33:4). To what is he referring? It reminded me of the Philistine god Dagon, who didn't fair too well in 1 Sam.5:1-4. What gods, or idols, are present in America? Does God bring judgement on that which is erroneously exalted?
<-I'm thinking "god" means their man-made pagan god were cut down and probably those who are in high places of pagan service. -The idea that you can buy happiness is a form of idol worship and the almighty dollar sure is being beat up right now!> lm
<I believe this referring to the plagues against Egypt. All of the gods of Egypt had a physical representation, these were defeated in the plagues such as Ra the sun god being blocked out and my favorite when the frog (who represents the goddess of fertility) multiplied out of control. What gods are in America? Money comes to mind and then I laugh when I see the next question about God bringing judgment. How about sports teams? People travel far to see their teams play, spend exorbitant amounts of money (scalped tickets prices), jump up and down and yell for a winning drive, etc. Something is mixed up when that's exciting and God isn't.> rt
<Not fast enough? He's more patient than I am. But I benefit from the patience, too.> ar
<Has accumulated wealth taken a hit? Do pro athletes fall on their faces? Are all false gods destined to be judged? "...But who can endure the day of his coming, and who can stand when he appears? For he is like a refiner's fire and like fullers' soap..." (Malachi 3:2)> jb
4. Why did God expect such severity toward the inhabitants of Canaan (Num.33:55)? Why would it matter what people brought into their houses (Deu.7:26)? Does it matter what you bring into your house? What abominations are available in our culture today?
<-Because that was the promise land and it was full of people with pagan gods. God's people were not to intermingle with pagans, because it often ended up in corruption of the Isrealites. -Take your pick of abominations available, TV, internet, movies... what a shame. Our culture is rancid with lust and sexual temptation. It is hard to be a man these days. ----On a side note: This is the best internet filter I have found and it is free: http://www1.k9webprotection.com/ > lm
<God expected such severity because he knew the alternative was that the Canaanites would turn Israel from Him. I think it matters because its a heart issue, God wants people following him with all of their hearts unlike Lot's wife who looked back fondly. What abominations do we have? Its harder to for us to see them because we 21st century Americans don't think like that. One thing I am trying to avoid is accumulating a lot of junk or "cumber".> rt
<Isn't this another commitment issue? Am I committed enough to right living that my dwelling place reflects it? Requires thought. Requires action!> ar
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February 22nd - Num.11 - Num.27 <last post 2/24>
"...it is too burdensome for me ...please kill me at once ... do not let me see my wretchedness..." (Num.11:14,15)
Complainers eventually cause even great, Spirit-filled leaders to reach the point of exasperation. Moses talked with God. He walked with God. He saw God's glory. He called forth God's power. But Moses reached the point where he preferred death over leading a rebellious, selfish people. I'm guessing you've all experienced the swirling vortex caused by grumblers. Serious reflection on this issue usually leads to serious attitude adjustments.
<*Numbers 11* : Its always comforting to read about amazing leaders who struggle. It is slightly selfish but there is some sort of peace knowing that God worked through broken, stressed, anxious and controlling people. Moses does a little bit of venting about his situation and desires death because it seems to much to handle. In His desperate cry God answers with simple instruction to lighten the load. ( Guess his burden is light ) I think Moses had it right no matter how busted up he was because his cry was directed to God, the only one who could truly come through.> ab
Participation questions from this week's reading are related to - GRUMBLING!
Your responses are shown in brackets <>
1. The guidance system that was implemented certainly made the presence of God obvious (Num.9:22,23). Why couldn't they maintain focus and a good attitude (Num.11:4)? How obvious is our guidance system and how well do we maintain focus and a good attitude?
<I would say they became accustomed to the presence of God and forgot who they were dealing with. They began to take God lightly. Complaining - they focused on negative thoughts that came across and began to voice them. They focused on what they did not have instead of focusing on the good things they did have and the good God who has giving them. Our guidance system - how are we guided by God? There are entire books addressing this, such as Richard Foster's Celebration of Discipline. The only point I will make here is going after Him, He wants us to know Him. James 4:8 Come near to God and he will come near to you.> rt
<- They had quite the obvious visible guidance system, which also performed miracles and feed them. It seems like a pretty good deal. Yet, they complained. I can easily point a finger at them and wonder "how did they possibly complain", then I look at myself. - We have the full time, on-board Spirit of God dwelling within us and how often do we feel shorted or mistreated. We all know life's purposes are for our own good, but sometimes it is hard to live: "And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose." Romans 8:28> lm
<Bible! Holy Spirit! As real as it gets. No guidance system works if you don't use it.> ar
2. How capable is God at providing for every desire? Comments on the methods He uses (Num.11:31)? How can you reconcile the obvious danger of asking (Num.11:33) with the expressed challenge to ask (Matt.7:7,11)?
<Yes He is. The methods are limitless and can come at ANY time. This is good question and I am interested to see the other responses. In the case of Israel, I would say their problem started with the ungrateful attitude they came to God with in the first place. If they started off praying by remembering what a good God they serve and how good and faithful He has always been to them and thanking Him specifically listing all He has done for them, I bet the whole thing would have gone down differently.> rt
<- He is more than capable for providing for every desire. He uses miraculous methods as well as everyday ones. - We are to ask, seek and knock. Not for greedy purposes, but for His purposes. All to often, I don't do this.> lm
<Very import to ask correctly, not carelessly, casually, or selfishly?> ar
<Would a secular world consider the quail event (3' deep) a miracle or a natural phenomenon? Can explaining the 'how' without the 'why' be good science and still miss reality? Does God allow for people to believe what they want to believe, even if it is wrong? > jb
<The world would consider it a natural phenomenon and come up with a good reason. I am an engineer, I do this all the time. If I know something happens/happened I can usually come up with a pretty good theory as to why. Yes, explaining the how without the why can be good science and miss reality. Also sometimes Christians don't see God in the natural means, the whole trust in God and lock your car doors argument. I think most of the time God allows people to believe what they want to believe just like He lets us choose our paths. While sometimes He is more persuasive than others, does He ever force?> rt
3. The spies were sent out with specific instructions (Num.13:17-20). Was their report accurate (Num.13:31)? Why was it met with such severity (Num 14:1-4, 28-29)?
<I believe both reports were accurate even in Numbers 13:31 "they are stronger than we are". All 12 spies saw the same things, the only difference is that Joshua and Caleb looking at the situation from God's perspective. The report was met with such severity and went so poorly because these people were obviously not ready to step into all that God had for them.> rt
<- their reports seems to be accurate. There was certainly some opinion thrown in, but they reported on the land and its people. - They were afraid of fighting and dying. In the end they were condemned to die in the wilderness by God for their unfaithfulness. We should demonstrate faithful obedience by following God the first time... or maybe the second or third!> lm
<Is God more severe when our responses to life cause others to deviate from His intentions? "...whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin..." (Mat.18:6). Is God always working on the bigger community with a bigger plan than we currently understand?> jb
4. How were the grumblings of Aaron / Miriam (Num.12:1,2) and of Korah (Num.16:1-3) similar? How did they differ? What lesson can be learned from Moses' instructions in Num.16:22,26? What had the Israelites failed to learn (Num.21:4,5). How are you doing with this issue?
<The grumblings were both against Moses but Korah took it a step further by rising up against Moses. What lessons can be learned from Numbers 16:22;26 is that God listens to his servants and to keep distance from people who are bent on opposing what God is doing. In Num.21:4,5 the Israelites failed at least to learn that grumbling makes this worse, although my opinion is this was a result of focus - they were focusing on what they did not have instead of what God was giving them and how he had always been faithful.> rt
<- The people rebelled against God's chosen man... Maybe they are jealous, maybe they are too prideful. "Has He not spoken through us as well?” and “You have gone far enough... so why do you exalt yourselves above the assembly of the LORD?” - Moses tried to save as many as possible, despite their grumbling. He extended grace towards them. - The Israelites failed to have faith in God and his servant Moses. Is their application for us here. Yes, have faith in God's timing and purposes. "The mind of man plans his way, But the LORD directs his steps." Proverbs 16:9> lm
<Don't get close, or stay close, to grumbling, rebellious sin!> ar
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS:
<I also have a general comment about desert experiences, when the natural means are taken away and we are forced to rely on God. (1) They bring up out what is on the inside such as our example the Israelites- their lack of faith and ungratefulness. When these come out it isn't good, but bringing it to the surface allows the stuff to be dealt with instead of simmering underneath. (2) They teach us to rely on God, He provides everything we need. (Deut 8:2;5)> rt
<Grumbling is really bad - "How long will they refuse to believe in me, in spite of all the miraculous signs I have performed for them?" (14:11). God is good - "The Lord is slow to anger, abounding in love and forgiving sin and rebellion" (14:18). God is alive - "the glory of the Lord fills the whole earth" (14:21). We choose who we serve!> ar
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February 15th - Lev.24 - Num.10 <last post 2/21>
"...the land is Mine..." Lev.25:23
The year of Jubilee would make for a wonderful economic equalizer. The recalibrating every fifty years would essentially insure future generations a fresh start, rather than leaving them locked into a life created by the decisions, management, and/or circumstances of previous generations. This is an opportune time to contemplate the subject of stewardship vs ownership.
Participation questions from this week's reading are related to - OWNER or STEWARD?
Your responses are shown in brackets <>
1. According to Lev.26:1-13, what causes, and what is, a blessed land?
<- Obedience to God is the answer. You have the blessings of the land, but even greater God says "I will confirm My covenant with you... I will make My dwelling among you, and My soul will not reject you. I will also walk among you and be your God, and you shall be My people." What a good God we have. It is crazy the disobedience the Israelites displayed, while they were so close to God... oh wait... I do the same thing!> lm
<A blessed name is caused by obedience to his commands, observing the Sabbath, having reverence for the sanctuary, and avoiding idols. A blessed land is a land of abundance lacking no good thing.> rt
2. According to Lev.26:14-39, what causes, and what is, a penalized land?
<- God is. He says "I will appoint over you a sudden terror, consumption and fever that will waste away the eyes and cause the soul to pine away; also, you will sow your seed uselessly, for your enemies will eat it up. I will set My face against you" and it only gets worse from there!> lm
<A penalized land is caused by not listening to God, ignoring His commands, not accepting correction, and being hostile to Him. A penalized land is full of disasters and where everything goes wrong no matter hard you try.> rt
<Surprised you didn't use cursed! Isn't it blessing or cursing?> ar
<I think being cursed is pretty similar to being in a penalty box. It's probably wise to avoid either one.> jb
3. Why is there so much conflict in the Middle East? Who owns that part of our planet? Do you think that diplomacy can bring peace?
<- Gen 16-Abram and Hagar had a son, Ishmael. The angel of the LORD said to her... “Behold, you are with child, And you will bear a son; And you shall call his name Ishmael, Because the LORD has given heed to your affliction. “He will be a wild donkey of a man, His hand will be against everyone, And everyone’s hand will be against him; And he will live to the east of all his brothers.” - God really owns it and it was given to the Jews as the promise land. It is surprising that God still allows this area to be such a mess. Diplomacy doesn't have a chance in the world.> lm
<I second lm.> rt
<How do you negotiate without the real owner at the table?> ar
4. Does blessed or penalized best describe the country in which you live? Does Lev.26:40-46 have any relevance in 2009? Do we need what Aaron was told to pronounce upon Israel (Num.6:24-26) ?
<- Well our country has been quite blessed and prosperous. It would have been interesting to see the answer to this question just a year ago. Lately, our prosperity has been under our own gumption and it has gotten us into trouble. I think we left God quite a while ago (the last time in the 60s), but as a nation we have had significant revival and repentance in the land. I think it is relevant today, in that we still need to be obedient to God. - This little saying in Numbers 6, seems a little out of place. I don't quite get why it is there, but none-the-less there it is. What does it mean for today? I'm not sure. Is this just a reminder for the wandering Israelites? Maybe. Perhaps, this is a reminder that it is God, who blesses us and not our own efforts. For this blessing to become a reality, it seems like we need to be have God's name on us.> lm
<In the 1600s, friction in England led to movements such as the Puritans and Quakers coming to America to establish a "city on a hill" (Jonathan Winthrop). Although not all who have migrated since then have the same beliefs, our country has always been different. I believe our blessing is because applying Biblical principles is a good way to do things and I also believe we have favor from above. lm states "I think we left God quite a while ago (the last time in the 60s), but as a nation we have had significant revival and repentance in the land" and its a good observation, it is interesting to note while a lot of the "breaking loose" occurred in the sixties there was also significant revival in the land. Bad getting worse and good getting better? I don't know. Does Lev.26:40-46 have any relevance in 2009? Yes, it still applies. There are stories of this happening on a large scale in recent history. Do we need what Aaron was told to pronounce upon Israel (Num.6:24-26) Yes, in fact when I read that I think of my Uncle every time I read or hear this.> rt
5. What would it take to generate an offering of the magnitude given by the Israelites in Lev.7:1-3? How did they accumulate the wealth for the offering (Ex.12:35,36)? Are you accumulating any wealth - how and for what?
<- A most holy guilt offering wounds pretty serious. Are our offerings made in dollars these days... or how about giving of our time. What is more valuable. Lately, giving money has been easy, while giving of time is more and more difficult. Perhaps, I'll start tithing of my time? - Apparently the Israelites plundered their captors. What are you advocating??? Seriously, the Lord made the Egyptians give the Israelites all their gold and silver. How does this apply today? I guess I might get a stimulus check in the mail someday! - Am I accumulating wealth? Perhaps some extra stuff I should have not bought. Recently, we have really curtailed our spending for adoption savings.> lm
<God always plans ahead. What He is doing in individual lives today is very much tied to what He will be expecting in the future. Understanding and embracing this truth moves us from 'ownership' to 'stewardship'.> jb
<I have been saving because I consider it prudent. Plus there have been some layoffs at my company and watching this go down has installed a healthy or not so heathly dose of fear. Lately I have been reading the Psalms and realizing that God is much more reliable than all the money I save up. He is my Source, my job is what he is using during this season to provide for me.> rt
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS:
<*Numbers 6* : Its interesting for me to think about a group of people set apart like this. Why not everyone or no one? Its seems like this would create an elitist mentality. All the days of his separation he is holy to the Lord (6:8) So every one else is chopped liver? Why would you not want to be set apart or holy to the Lord?> ab
<--the vow is initiated by the individual. It is made for a specified time to show utmost obedience to the Lord by the individual. I think of it as a special time of set apartedness (is that a word?). A special time of devotion. A vow to the Lord. It is special precisely because it is based on individual devotion and not wide-spread blanket obedience.> lm
<Elitist? "Servant of all"? The call to be God's can be abused, but when answered with a contrite heart, it leads to the good of all mankind. To whom does God extend this type of offer now? It seems to be a position that very few are willing to take.> jb
<*Numbers 9* : I love the imagery of the cloud coming over the tabernacle. It must have been such a cool thing to witness. Initially I think to my self how easy that would that have been. Cloud lifts lets go, cloud rests lets stay. Pretty easy call to follow. As I read through the different time periods that the cloud would stay or go and they moved according to the cloud only and the Holy Spirit comes to mind and I feel like an idiot almost. From what I understand the Israelites, or anybody during the old testament time period did not have the Holy Spirit personally to guide them. It would rest on an individual to follow. The Spirit of God Is unchanging though. I get frustrated because I want a big sign to follow, when I have something in being surrendered that they never experienced. Personal direction from the Holy Spirit. In the same manner the Spirit of God moves and rests in my life today. So cool, who needs a pillar of fire.> ab
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February 8th - Lev.5 - Lev.23
"...This is the thing which the Lord has commanded you to do, that the glory of the Lord may appear to you..." (Lev.9:6)
Intentional or unintentional sin. Perfect priestly offerings. Burnt offerings. Guilt offerings. Ordination offerings. Peace offerings. Staying clean or becoming clean again. I wonder how each of you are processing these passages. Are you accummulating mental lists of legal requirements? Are you understanding why the Scribes and Pharisees of Jesus day were imprisoned in their particular way of thinking? Are you skimming to get through this section as quickly as possible?
If you're "looking through, not at, the window", you have no doubt gathered, or refreshed, some insights about the nature of God. I'd love to hear from you, even if your comments don't relate directly to the participation questions.
Participation questions from this week's reading are related to - WHY THE DETAILS?
Your responses are shown in brackets <>
1. GOD: What is God looking for (Lev.11:44, Lev.18:3, Lev.20:23)? After Peter had spent time with Jesus, denied Him during the crucifixion, and ultimately received the promised Holy Spirit, he had similar things to say. How are the Leviticus verses similar to 1 Pet.1:13-17, and how should they affect you life and conduct this year?
<-Lev = For us to be Holy, because God's people are set apart. -1 Peter = For us to be Holy, because He is holy. --I'm not so sure these are all that different. They both involve His command and our response (ie., obedience). --Holiness should affect every aspect of our lives. Every decision, every reaction, every spoken word. It is when we forget this that we get into trouble.> lm
<God wants a people who are committed to living according to his designs.> ar
<There are those who say that the God of the Old Testament is a capricious, spiteful God. They obviously haven't met Him. He loves people and wants people to live with Him in that love. To meet Him is to be smitten, not by His meanness, but by His goodness. He is Holy, and He is always drawing people into His Holiness. To accept His wooing one must resist conforming to this world. Its an exciting journey into purpose and fullness.!> jb
<God is looking for us to be Holy (Hebrew word for holy kodesh means set-apart), theme in referenced passages is also throughout the Bible Psalm 24 Clean hands and pure heart, and Romans 12:2 Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, etc. To do this we must have different values/thinking than those around us, people will not understand why you do/don't do certain things but thats okay, I am not living my life to please them (Gal 1:10)> rt
2. LEADERS: It really does matter how leaders lead! Compare the results (Lev.9:23) of Aaron's actions in Lev.9:7-22 to the results (Ex.32:25,Ex.32:35) of his actions in Ex.32:14. Who are the leaders in your life and which outcomes are they producing? How can you affect the outcomes (2 Chron.7:14, Rom.13:1, 1 Pet.2:13-15)?
<-Get some humbleness, pray and seek God, turn from wicked ways. -Be subject to God. -Do right. --the list is right there, it should be easy. But how quickly we fall... --Mentors... I have been blessed to have faithful mentors in my life. We typically meet every other week to discuss, challenge and encourage. I hope each of you have built similar relationships in your lives.> lm
<Are you fishing for a comment about Obama - the appointed leader with positions that are in direct conflict with what is stated here in Leviticus? Judgement or opportunity? The 2 Chrn. passage states pretty clearly that the destiny of a country is in the hands of God's people. Ouch!! Are we taking our responsibility seriously> ar
<I'm certainly fishing for comments, but not just about Obama. There are leaders everywhere - national, state, local, schools, churches, families, etc, etc, etc. Because actions have consequences, leadership can result in God's glory being poured out, or it can result in the chaos of people "breaking loose". I'm a bit partial to God's glory, and I see pretty clearly in the 2 Chronicles passage that I (we) have a significant affect on outcomes.> jb
<Apparently our job is to "submit to every authority instituted among men" even those we disagree with. I agree that all things work together for good for those who who love Him and that no authority can be instituted unless God allows. In China they say that communism is like a tea cup. Communism is the tea and God is the cup that holds it in place. However, I would say most of us agree the American Revolution was a good thing.> rt
3. PEOPLE: Why should an individual care about God's details (Gen.2:17,Ex.15:26,Deut.30:15-18)? Leprosy included more than just the Hansen's Bacillus leprosy of modern medicine. It included multiple wasting diseases and it was a Type for sin - highly destructive, contagious, isolation causing. Do we have wasting disease in our society today? From where does it originate?
<-Because the proof is in the pudding! --I really like Deut 30:15-18, to me it hits home. We have choices everyday, all the time. We can choose His way or the wrong way, and we even know the consequences. --We have numerous such diseases, both mental and physical. The big one is obviously AIDS. It is hard to consider that all things are created by God, for God, in subjection to God. Did God create AIDS? Apparently, and it is part of His plan. Is AIDS a modern day Type of sin? Maybe.> lm
<Cancer. Its everywhere. Cells that don't care about the rest - just themselves. No submission. Big trouble. Ultimately death. It isn't Christianically Correct to say that God is behind all this, but Leviticus (look ahead to Lev.26) spells things out pretty clearly.> ar
<Yup! Lev.26 and Deut.28 both proclaim that physical, mental and environmental circumstances can be the result of personal choices, not just random events. People can be pretty opinionated about this topic, to the point of being distracted from what God wishes to speak into their lives. Be careful about taking a staunch position without hearing His heart. We'll talk more in the coming weeks.> jb
<I am curious to what you are getting at as this is opening a can of worms. Can sickness be the result of sin/personal choices - Yes. However, let's be honest bad things such as sickness, cancer, unemployment, car accidents, etc happen to good people all the time. And its not hard to find evil people who are prospering. However, I really like your comment about listening to God what is saying during these times. If all works work together for our good, I don't believe anything that happens to us is random.> rt
<Everyone has their bias, God has the truth. When tempted to relegate Old Testament to 'then', and New Testament to 'now', don't forget to listen carefully to the words of Jesus. Word's like those given to the invalid He healed in John 5: " ...See, you are well! Sin no more, that nothing worse may happen to you...”> jb
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS:
<The more scripture repeats a theme or concept, the more important I believe it is. If you haven't already, start making mental notes about the number of times "the Sabbath" is referenced. We will eventually have some discussion about this topic. I believe it is the forgotten (ignored?) Commandments.> jb
<Leviticus as a whole: It is surprising to me the level of details, which God gives for us to follow. The extent to which sacrifices are laid out, is overwhelming. I especially like the last couple of chapters in Leviticus, which refer to holiness. I find God's standard good and draw out more application than the previous chapters.> lm
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February 1st - Ex.25 - Lev.4
"...All the words which the Lord has spoken we will do!" (Ex.24:3)
<Saying is easy, doing takes commitment.> jb
This section of scripture tends to be more difficult for some readers. The last half of Exodus through Deuteronomy contains a lot of details that can seem overwhelming and burdensome. Don't give up now, and don't forget to listen to the Giver of the details. Recognizing the character and expectations of God as He dealt with the Israelites can help us to more readily understand His expectations with us in 2009.
Participation questions from this week's reading are related to - HIS IDEA, OUR RESPONSIBILITY!.
Your responses are shown in brackets <>
1. The specifications! From where did the plans for the Tabernacle, the priestly sacrificial system, and the commandments for civilized living originate (Ex.25:9,31:18)?
<- First I like that the Tabernacle is for God, that He would be with them. That is actually pretty cool, “Let them construct a sanctuary for Me, that I may dwell among them... According to all that I am going to show you" verses 8-9. - Second, the plans are from God and so are the workers! I like that God provided the detailed plans, and then provided the skilled workers. "Then Moses called Bezalel and Oholiab and every skillful person in whom the LORD had put skill, everyone whose heart stirred him, to come to the work to perform it." - Exodus 36:2 (NASB)> lm
<Consistent theme. God's world. God's plans. God's way.>
<They originate directly from God.> rt
2. Fulfilling the specifications! Are God's expectations too high (Ex.39:42)? How can they be fulfilled (Ex.28:3,31:3,6,35:26)?
< Only those whose hearts were stirred responding to the call by Moses – emphasizing the fact that only God can move hearts> ab
<- the expectations are reachable, because God provides the skilled labor to accomplish the goal. “You shall speak to all the skillful persons whom I have endowed with the spirit of wisdom" Exodus 28:3> lm
<God's way. God's power>
<Brings up some debate material. Which is worse, attempting in our own power to do something we're not gifted for, or not using our gifts to accomplish God's plans? Both bad! And I didn't read anywhere about the Israelites taking a gifts assessment test.> ar
<I agree with responses already posted and I really liked 31:3 "I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with skill, ability and knowledge in all kinds of crafts"> rt
3. The result! What is the bottom line desire of God (25:8, 29:42,45,30:6,40:34)? What is the tendency of fallen humanity (Ex.32:1,4,25)? What happens when people are obstinate and rebellious (Ex.33:3)?
<in the ridiculousness of instruction on the tabernacle I found less ridiculousness. In the small details obeyed to a T, in the simple obedience to every instruction, prepared the way for the glory of the Lord to be revealed. Relate to us?> ab
<- To be a very real presence for the people of Israel. - The people say, “Come, make us a god who will go before us". This is so odd, especially after all that is going on and the people affirm their covenant with God. "Then Moses came and recounted to the people all the words of the LORD and all the ordinances; and all the people answered with one voice and said, “All the words which the LORD has spoken we will do!” Ex 24:3 - The Israelites are flirting with disaster..."because you are an obstinate people, and I might destroy you on the way.” > lm
<God's presence. God's glory.>
<Why is so much "churching" centered on making people happy? Have we missed the boat that badly? Are we trying to bring people in, or God in? I think I'd like more presence> ar
<The bottom line desire of God is "Then I will dwell among them and be their God". I would say that this is the theme of the whole Bible, from the fall to the end.> rt
4. Fast forward! Bring your attention and focus to the current days in which we live. Does God have any specifications? How are they fulfilled? What is the result? What is the alternative? Is there 'perpetual incense before the Lord' (Ex.30:8) now? Have you considered praying and interceding like Moses did in Ex.33:13-16.
<- The standard is set for the Israelites (and there is some pretty cool stuff in there), but I think we'll get to the "current specifications" a little later. - this plea from Moses is actually pretty neat and gives us alot to consider, especially when you consider what Moses is saying and what he experienced. “Now therefore, I pray You, if I have found favor in Your sight, let me know Your ways that I may know You, so that I may find favor in Your sight." It does not point towards us, but Him.> lm
<God's world. God's plans. God's way.>
<Yes while we do not burn incense today Psalm 141:2 "May my prayer be set before you like incense" prayers to the Father are something that catches his attention and He finds pleasing.> rt
5. Go to End! Reading about 'the testimony' and 'the mercy seat' (Ex.2516,17)) reminds me of the devil defeating power described at the end of time as we know it (Rev.12:11). How do you think these two passages compare?
<God's world. God's way. God's conclusion.>
<I think you mean 12:11, not 12:4. God is consistent through all history. Pretty awesome that the spoken testimony of God's people is used along with the blood of the lamb to accomplish the overcoming.> ar
<Sorry! I should have double checked my reference. I guess the old bean remembers scriptures better than their locations. I did mean 12:11, so I changed it.> jb
<I like AR's comment.> rt
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January 25th - Ex.4 - Ex.24
...Who is the Lord that I should obey His voice... (Ex. 5:2)
One of the consistent themes in history (O.T., N.T., and modern) is that God desires to be known for who He is. We saw that mankind can grieve Him with evil intentions (Gen.6:5,6). This week we read that we can anger Him with our lack of faith (Ex.4:14). In spite of our shortcomings, He works out a release from the world's prisons (Ex.3:19). The release comes through struggle and on God's timetable (Gen.15:13).
Participation questions from this week's reading are related to - KNOW THAT I AM GOD!.
Your responses are shown in brackets <>
1. Why would God harden Pharoah's heart "...so that he will not let the people go..."? (Ex.4:11,7:3) What value can there be in God making his people "...odious in <world leaders> sight..."? (Ex.5:21)
<- God certainly hardened Pharaoh's heart, but that was done in order to accomplish His plan, which is stated in Exodus 6:6-7 (NASB) 6‘I am the LORD, and I will bring you out from under the burdens of the Egyptians, and I will deliver you from their bondage. I will also redeem you with an outstretched arm and with great judgments. 7‘Then I will take you for My people, and I will be your God; and you shall know that I am the LORD your God, who brought you out from under the burdens of the Egyptians.
--The Lord simply wants His people to know that He is their God... and sometimes He needs to go to extreme measures! Exodus 7:3 "I will harden Pharaoh’s heart that I may multiply My signs and My wonders in the land of Egypt."
---Despite how we may feel at times, this is truly a very good deal on our part.
-about the stinking, I imagine there is some word play in the Hebrew that makes sense, but I know nothing about it.>
<God can do what God decides. Can the clay say to the potter, "Why have you made me thus"? If we don't get caught in the unproductive "is it fair" loop, we see that God is creating circumstances through which he reveals himself to the world he made.>
<I have a hard time not addressing the "is it fair" issue. If God can and does decide how a person will react it would seem that people don't have a choice. Is everything predetermined, or just instances like this one when God is making a point?>
<God can do what he wants, when he wants. People may not like it. People may claim its not fair, or that they won't have anything to do with a god who doesn't follow their preferences. In the end, God has the final say whether we like it or not. I guess its better to acknowledge this sooner, rather than later.>
2. Who had to learn about the sovereignty of God over the affairs of men? (Ex.6:1;Ex.14:4,13) What response is God looking for? (Ex.10:3; Ex.14:14, 31)
<-Pharaoh (and the Egyptians) did! And we read that Pharaoh was a slow learner. You think after the 1st or 2nd plague, he might reconsider, but we also read how God had to multiply His signs and wonders in the land!
-God was looking for a little humility...as Exodus 10:3 states “Thus says the LORD, the God of the Hebrews, ‘How long will you refuse to humble yourself before Me?'">
<Same as today - the dominant culture of the day and the people God is setting apart for Himself. Humility, quiet, fear, and belief - still needed today.>
<Very few people seem to live their lives as if God is sovereign. Why doesn't he make it more obvious?>
<It seems like most of the times in Old Testament that God made himself obvious someone or some nation was being severely judged. The Egyptians got a good taste of this, and I don't think they liked it much. The other times seem to be more personal and private, when individuals like Abram are willing to obey and leave their "normal" life behind.>
3. Why do men (magicians) imitate the acts of God (Ex.7:11,22; Ex.8:7) Can man disprove the existence/sovereignty of God (Ex.8:18,19).
<-We want to be great. -Ex 8:19 - the magicians said to Pharaoh, “This is the finger of God.” What a great line. I suppose we cannot prove the existence of God on demand, but we sure can tell when He is working!>
<We think if we can explain away God with alternate explanations that he is gone. Too bad - our explanations and attempts will all fall short of his glory. He exists whether we like it or not.>
<Dreamers dream. Look at the newest batch of TV shows that deal with the paranormal. Looks like we all long for more than we can really attain.>
4. What distinction is made between the world (Egypt) and God's people (Israel)? (Ex.11:7, 15:26, 23:24,25) Who controls group assignments (Ex.19:5)
<-The Israelites will be protected "IF"... Exodus 15:25 - 26, lays down the gauntlet. 1. give earnest heed to the voice of the LORD your God 2. do what is right in His sight, 3. give ear to His commandments, 4. keep all His statutes.
-This second part is a little tricky... clearly the Israelites had things to do and see... Ex 19:5 "obey My voice and keep My covenant, then you shall be My own possession among all the peoples"
--How do we fit into this OT deal? We are clearly grafted into Israel (ie., we are the new Israel, the modern Church), yet we are saved through grace (and not of our own doing). I'm not sure where that leaves the controlling of group assignments, but He knows and I'm excited about that!>
<Interesting way to present the question - "group assignments"! The Old Testament, at first, appears to be God making the selection. In fact, all of history has struggled with the Jewish claim of being God's people. But the qualifications seem to be the same now as then. Obey God's voice, keep his commands, be his treasure. Hear him, respond, you're on the right side.>
<Does God pick his people? Do people pick their god? Sounds like week 2 - Who's in charge?>
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January 18th - Gen. 35 - Ex.3
...And I will bless those who bless you, And the one who curses you I will curse. And in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed...(Gen.12:3)
Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob were three generations that shared a consistent promise from God. They were contacted by God. They were led by God. They were protected by God. And then comes Joseph - dreamer, irritant, slave, overseer, prisoner, leader, deliverer.
Participation questions from this week's reading are related to - BEING A BLESSING?.
Your responses are shown in brackets <>
1. Was Joseph correct in saying "God sent me before you to preserve life" (Gen.45:5) and "it was not you who sent me here, but God" (Gen.45:8)? What if his brothers wouldn't have "plotted against him" (Gen.37:18)? Does the end justify their behavior?
<- Joseph seems pretty convinced that it was God's doing, so I am convinced as well.
- Everything would have been just fine if the brothers had not plotted against Joseph. We would have been reading a different story, written by the same God, with the same purposes in mind.
- The end does not justify their behavior. I did not see much of a response from the brothers once Joseph reveals himself. I expected to see some remorseful statements, but I did not see any. However, I'm sure the brothers were very scared that Joseph might put them to death for their misdeeds. We see a foreshadow of Christ.>
<The brothers made a choice from their selfcentered worldview. God redeemed the situation for his purposes and even for the good of those who made the poor choice. I'm glad to be serving a God who works this way.>
2. To go from a position of respect in Potiphar's house (Gen.39:4) to being a prisoner (Gen.39:20) didn't appear to be fair or positive. Have you experienced any 'bad, unfair times' that actually were instrumental in moving you in a direction you otherwise wouldn't have gone? What will God use to move us on to higher purposes? Can we expect to recognize what He is doing at all times?
<- "Fair" is overdone. What's really fair? Again, I think about not being able to have kids... is this fair? Who knows... is this God's plan? YES.
- Joseph might not have had many options, but it seems as though Potiphar's wife pursued him for quite some time. This section to me is a reminder to flee from immorality and be careful how you conduct yourself.
- I don't think we can expect to recognize His movements at all times, yet we are to realize that "God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose." - Romans 8:28>
<I'm not real good at seeing beyond the circumstances to the bigger picture. I would not make it to "higher purposes" if God wasn't willing to do whatever is necessary. Again, its reassuring to know this is how he works.>
<Is it more important to recognize what he is doing, or to be found faithful? I like to know, and I think it helps me do right, but I need to do right even when I don't know. Does that make sense?>
3. The presence of godly Joseph prevented disaster in Egypt (the world). His absence had the opposite result (Ex.1:8,14). Are our world's woes related to an absence? Can we live in such a way that our surroundings are blessed because of us (Gen.39:3,23)? How would this mindset differ from that of the typical man on the street?
<- The word says that "the new king... did not know Joseph", I'm thinking more importantly, that the new king did not know Joseph's king! The Egyptian king did not know--see things the same way--as Joseph.
- I hope that my thoughts and actions would reflect the LORD. I know I miss the mark repeatedly. The difference is, choosing to live for the LORD in everything! Big and small, 7 days a week, every choice, every action. This is a high calling indeed.>
<The blessings come from God, not us, but we do have a part in the process. I think of 2 Chron. 7:14 which says "if My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land." God will heal (bless) the USA if we will do our part (humble, pray, seek, turn).>
"He blessed them, every one with the blessing appropriate to him" (Gen.49:28). I pray that you will receive the appropriate blessing for spending this time looking for God.
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January 11th - Gen. 16-34
... There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death... (Proverbs 14:12)
No one remains unaffected by the culture in which they live. How we live and how we respond is a product of our experience and our choices. Abram was called by God to leave what he knew behind and to venture into something new - God's plans (Gen.12:1-4). Lot went along for the ride, but didn't have the same call. Rebekah was brought later to be the wife of Isaac. Their son Jacob ended up back with Rebekah's brother Laban for quite a few years.
Last week we saw that Lot grabbed for himself (Gen.13:10,11), while Abram trusted that God would care for him. This week we see Abram losing a little FOCUS by confusing the voice of his wife with the plan of God (Gen.16:2). Then we see a whole lot of deception with Rebekah, Jacob, and Laban.
Participation questions from this week's reading are related to - WHO IS IN CHARGE?.
Your responses are shown in brackets <>
1. When God makes promises, can He and does He deliver on those promises? (Gen.18:14, 21:1) Has He made specific promises to you?
<-YES, but sometimes they are not answered as we expect them. Early on when I would struggle in my Christian faith, I would ask God to reveal Himself to me. I did not expect God to reveal His ways to me through adoption, but He chose this unique path for Leslie and I. Teaching me things about His character, His unconditional love, literal adoption into His family, and the sanctity of life.>
<He delivers on his own timetable. If we aren't patient, we miss his hand.>
2. What happens to even mundane tasks when we live contrary to God's purposes? (Gen 19:11)
< I don't see the mundane in this passage, it seems quite the contrary, the judgment is severe on the city and the people are very wicked. Obviously, living contrary to God's purposes here results in death for many.>
<NOTE: The mundane task I was referring to was finding the doorway. When God is against us, even simple tasks like opening a door become impossible. jb>
<I've noticed this in my own life. Sometimes when I get real frustrated doing something that should be easy, I stop and ask God what is going on. It isn't uncommon for him to lead me away from the task, at least at that point in time.>
3. Abraham's testing (Gen.22:1) revealed that he loved God more than he loved God's promises. Do you?
< -I find that there is some speculation around these verses, particularly verse 5 "Abraham said to his young men, “Stay here with the donkey, and I and the lad will go over there; and we will worship and return to you.” --Notice Abraham uses the term "we" will... return to you". Did Abraham know something that is not stated in the text. Did he know the character of God so well that he knew God would provide another sacrifice? --Alternatively, did Abraham just not understand and figured that Isaac (Abraham's promised seed) needed to survive if God was to fulfill His promise to him. ---For me, it is sometimes hard to know when/where you are being tested. I hope that I would respond with a love of God more than His promises to me! Part of the puzzle of responding to God is being close to Him and listening. Sometimes, I'm rocking and other times I'm failing.>
<Interesting question about loving God vs loving his promises. I think a lot of Christianity pedals the promises more than the giver of the promises. I probably want the inheritance (not the stew) too much. I should want the Father more. Thanx.>
<Lots of teaching out there on how to obtain the promises. Not so much on how to simply walk with the life-giver>
4. What do we give up by succumbing to fleshly desires? (Gen 25:34)
< --Esau was willing to trade his birthright for a meal, this seems so odd? He gave up his privilege, his rightful spot in the family as firstborn for a onetime bowl of soup. Not only that but he seemed to be glad to be rid of it! Like it was an evil curse or burden (perhaps it was a burden "the older will serve the younger"). ---I guess I would say that succumbing to the fleshly desires makes us lose focus of our role in life, as firstborn, as children of God.>
<We give up the best for something inconsequential.>
5. Rebekah, Jacob, and Laban appeared to be living by deceitful selfish standards, but God didn't stay out of the situation (Gen.31:24). Does God still interact with us to insure that His purposes come to pass? How has He manifested himself in a situation in your life?
<-YES, but again it is often different than we expect. --Often I have to use perspective to realize the working of God in my life. As I live life, I usually am not aware of how God is orchestrating His plan around me. It is not until afterwords that I can look back and see God's hand in it. Perhaps, moving every coup>
<I'd prefer that God would sit at the breakfast table with me each morning and tell me what the day was going to be like and how to handle it. Maybe my devotions will get to the point where I feel like that is what is happening.>
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January 4th - Gen. 1-15
Genesis is a great read. Its full of beginnings. Its full of firsts. Its full of controversy. We could spend all year in Genesis if we wanted to comb through all the information and look at all the issues that have been debated throughout the history of the world. But remember our goal. If we spend too much time on the footprints, we'll never keep up with the God who is making them.
"...he who comes to God must believe that He is and that He is a rewarder of those who seek Him..." (Heb.11:6)
When it comes to creation, it is sometimes easier to understand by simply looking around us at what the creator has done.
"...the heavens are telling of the glory of God; And their expanse is declaring the work of His hands. Day to day pours forth speech, and night to night reveals knowledge..." (Psa.19:1,2)
"...since the creation of the world His invisible attributes, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood through what has been made..." (Rom.1:20)
Participation questions from this week's reading are all related by one word - INTENTION.
Your responses are shown in brackets <>
1. Based on Gen.3:22, it appears that the serpent wasn't lying in Gen. 3:5. What was the deception, and how am I deceived in the same fashion?
< -"the woman saw that the tree was good for food" = OK no harm here
-"and that it was a delight to the eyes" = I think of a lusting
-"and that the tree was desirable to make one wise" = I think of pride
--Both lust and pride, not too bad for the old serpent! >
<Good for food would be fine if not for the fact that God said DON'T. Usually harmful to ignore what God says.>
<Using what God has said in a wrong way for the wrong reasons! That which Jesus resisted in his temptation, I sometimes don't process correctly>
2. Sin seems to be more than an act in Gen.4:7. What does sin desire? How can I master it?
<-“If you do well, will not your countenance be lifted up?" = It seems as though the standard was already establish and understood. We must do well... to do this we must first know what "well" is and then simply do it. We read and study the instructions laid out for us in the Word of God to learn what "well" is. We must lean on God and depend on Him and the Holy spirit to do the "well". The fellowship of believers is another important part of our encouragement for doing well.
-"And if you do not do well, sin is crouching at the door; and its desire is for you" = Sin seems to be alive, stalking like a lion.
-"you must master it” = Mastery is a strong word. Upon reflecting on this passage I am surprised to see it here. I'm not so sure we will ever master sin (ie., stop sinning, for even Paul never arrived there). Perhaps "rule" or "have power over" would be a better fit, implying that we can have control over the attacks of sin. Like choosing to turn away when you are about to lust or remain silent when you are about to speak a harsh
word.>
<Master sin? Even the great apostle Paul complained about lack of control regarding doing the things he didn't want to do. It sounds like a battle all the way. We obviously need divine help, but we also need each other. Thanks for challenging us. I look forward to a year in the good book with you!>
<Sin wants me. I can't let it have me. I can't let it have its way with me. I don't want Satan to sift me.>
3. Do I make God sorry for creating me (Gen. 6:5,6) or do I find favor in His eyes (Gen.6:8)? How can God save me from the corruption that is in the world?
<-"Then the LORD saw that the wickedness of man was great on the earth, and that every intent of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually." = well it seems to make sense that he would be grieved. The people were continually thinking and doing evil. It would hurt me too! I don't think that I continually do evil, nor do I really think I am capable of that being transformed by the very Spirit of God.
-"Noah was a righteous man, blameless in his time; Noah walked with God." = We see that Noah must have been doing something right. We read that he was righteous, blameless, and walked with God. We also read that he was obedient to what God told him to do, build the ark. I did not look it up, but I'm assuming "walk with God" is very descriptive of Noah's obedient nature.>
<If he wasn't seeing me through the cross of Jesus Christ, I would be a huge disappointment. He has made a way of salvation which I must daily choose.>
4. What were the intentions of the people in the land of Shinar (Gen.11:4)? When does great ability, which many on our planet possess, lead to situations that God Himself resists?
< -“Come, let us build for ourselves a city, and a tower whose top will reach into heaven, and let us make for ourselves a name” = I see pride being the reason and purpose for the tower. In this passage we once again see people attempting to be like God, as described in Gen 3. When our ability (which is really His gifting to us through the Holy Spirit for His purposes) is focused on us and not on Him we are going down the wrong road.>
<When we use our God given abilities for other than God ordained purposes, we put ourselves in a posture that God will oppose>
<You certainly did pick questions with a common theme. You used the word INTENTIONS. I'm surprised an eye doc didn't use the word FOCUS. All 4 questions relate to the FOCUS of our life. Do we evaluate every thought and action from who God is and what he has said, or do our thoughts and actions come from a self centered FOCUS? Ouch, that hits close to home.>
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2009 INTRODUCTION
The Bible is not a textbook, though many use it that way. The Bible is not just information to be collected and assimilated into our lives, though that usually happens while reading it. The Bible is a window into the heart of God.
You don't stop looking through a window because you've looked through it before. You look through again and again. You see some of the same things, but you also see new things. And you don't focus on the window. You actually want it as clean and transparent as possible. If you focus too much on the window you miss what exists on the other side.
You're invited to journey through the entire Bible in a year. The goal is not to accumulate facts and formulas, but simply to position ourselves for glimpses of the Almighty - to be drawn closer to Him. If we are successful, we will be saying "But Now I See".
Refer to the Daily Reading List in the left column to make sure you're keeping pace with your reading. The date link on the left column will take you to Dr.B.'s posted comments and questions. Responses by participants in 2009 are posted in brackets <>. Since this site is not yet set up for blogging, comments must be sent by email.
Thanks for joining me on this great adventure! We made it through the Bible in 2009, but I'm more than happy to add to the postings.
drb@westbrancheyecare.com
