I am so excited. This is one of my fave OT books. I'm excited to get to read through it again!
1.5 - Even before Jeremiah was born, God had a great plan for him, He made him holy - set apart - consecrated
1.6 - Excuses, excuses...why do we always offer excuses to God when he tells us to do something. We don't need to argue with the sovereign God of the universe.
1.9 - "I have put my words in your mouth" - we don't speak with our words - let the HS fill us so we rightly share about him.
1.16 - the peoples' greatest evil was worshipping other gods and the work of their own hands. This is where the jealousy for your name comes into play. We see it throughout Scripture.
2.13 - Two evils: forsaken me (we wouldn't need the next one if we hadn't done this) and made cisterns - broken ones at that - for ourselves. We can't even make gods right - these are broken. So they won't do anything for us. What are my broken cisterns?
2.22 - No matter what we do to wash ourselves clean of our sin and sinlessness, are cleanness is as filthy rags and we utterly fall short of God's glory. "The stain of your sin is always before me."
2.28 - God mocks them, but proves a point. Let your gods do their thing and save you if they are really there. Why do we even bother with bringing evil things before the Lord or saying they aren't really "that bad".
3.1 - you have played the whore with many lovers. What is my love Jesus? Who have I committed adultery with? Why can't I stay true to you? So much like Hosea.
4.4 - God just doesn't want our fleshly circumcision, but he wants there to be no "skin" in between our hearts and His will. He wants nothing to be hindering our relationship with him.
4.22 - Oh, Jesus, do not let me be wise in doing good. Am I clever at it? Do I "long" to know the new ways of doing evil. I want to be innocent of the things of this world - I want to be innocent of sin.
Sunday, September 18, 2005
Sept 18, End of Judges
I didn't do it on Saturday. By the time I got up for going to Charlotte, I didn't have time. Then I got home and worked out and watched the Gator game, fell asleep, so I knew I would be too tired after the game. So, I've got to finish Judges today and read the first of Jeremiah.
Judges 18.1 - Obviously this bit about having no king is important, because this is the second time in 7 verses that it is mentioned. Leadership in God's people is highly important.
18.6 - Go in peace, the journey on which you go is under the eye of the Lord. Sounds like Moses when he said we don't want to go unless the Lord go before us. I don't want to do anything unless it is in your will that I do it. It won't be successful in your eyes.
18.20 - Even in the midst of sin, the priest was happy because it meant more popularity and "being seen" for him. Never let me take the popular road. As Christy Nockels says, the purest place will never be the most popular place.
To be continued, I must leave for church in 18 minutes, so I need to get ready!
20.26 - In the midst of battle, death, and victory...they wept, fasted and sacrificed. How important it was for them to do that - whether it was for mourning or for victory - they knew the relationship with God had to be there.
The last verse - 21.25 - Everyone did what was right in their own eyes because Israel had no king. no direction or leadership -
Judges 18.1 - Obviously this bit about having no king is important, because this is the second time in 7 verses that it is mentioned. Leadership in God's people is highly important.
18.6 - Go in peace, the journey on which you go is under the eye of the Lord. Sounds like Moses when he said we don't want to go unless the Lord go before us. I don't want to do anything unless it is in your will that I do it. It won't be successful in your eyes.
18.20 - Even in the midst of sin, the priest was happy because it meant more popularity and "being seen" for him. Never let me take the popular road. As Christy Nockels says, the purest place will never be the most popular place.
To be continued, I must leave for church in 18 minutes, so I need to get ready!
20.26 - In the midst of battle, death, and victory...they wept, fasted and sacrificed. How important it was for them to do that - whether it was for mourning or for victory - they knew the relationship with God had to be there.
The last verse - 21.25 - Everyone did what was right in their own eyes because Israel had no king. no direction or leadership -
Friday, September 16, 2005
Sept 16, Judges 15-17
15.5 - One of the oddest things I have read in the Bible. Samson torches foxes' tails - but it helped destroy some of the Philistines - and it was all in God's plan.
16.6 - Idiot Delilah - what man is going to tell you how to bind him? You could have asked in a more clever way - just not come right out with it. Another odd thing in Scripture today? But, again, it was all part of God's plan.
16.20 - Scary words of Scripture - He didn't know that the Lord had left Him. Father - please do not let me experience that ever. Help me to stay, as David Sims said, in the very center of God's will and let me experience the fullness of that!
16.28-31 - Even in Samson's death, God was glorified because He was the strength of his victory. Everyone, when the Philistines died, knew who had done it.
17.6 - Without a leader or vision - the people perish. Same here as in Nehemiah. There was no king of Israel - the people followed the gods of this world.
16.6 - Idiot Delilah - what man is going to tell you how to bind him? You could have asked in a more clever way - just not come right out with it. Another odd thing in Scripture today? But, again, it was all part of God's plan.
16.20 - Scary words of Scripture - He didn't know that the Lord had left Him. Father - please do not let me experience that ever. Help me to stay, as David Sims said, in the very center of God's will and let me experience the fullness of that!
16.28-31 - Even in Samson's death, God was glorified because He was the strength of his victory. Everyone, when the Philistines died, knew who had done it.
17.6 - Without a leader or vision - the people perish. Same here as in Nehemiah. There was no king of Israel - the people followed the gods of this world.
Thursday, September 15, 2005
Sept 15, Judges 12-14
13.1 SO - what a big word. The Israelites can't make up their mind whom they want to serve, so God gave them over. The bad thing would be is if God gave me over to my gods and desires that I have that are other than him. God, take those away, may I not serve other gods that can't satisfy - only you can!
13.6 - What an understatement - very awesome. I Can Only Imagine comes to mind about now.
13.19 - To the one who works wonders. As the footnote says, and is working wonders. God you are still in the business of working wonders. Let us have the obedience and the faith to see them!
13.20b - And they fell on their faces to the ground. Another portrait of correct worship. What we need to learn from this. Not always asking that God will show His face, because we would all be dead and I doubt that we would call him our "homeboy".
13.6 - What an understatement - very awesome. I Can Only Imagine comes to mind about now.
13.19 - To the one who works wonders. As the footnote says, and is working wonders. God you are still in the business of working wonders. Let us have the obedience and the faith to see them!
13.20b - And they fell on their faces to the ground. Another portrait of correct worship. What we need to learn from this. Not always asking that God will show His face, because we would all be dead and I doubt that we would call him our "homeboy".
Wednesday, September 14, 2005
Sept 13, Judges 9-11
What a discouraging day, so hopefully time in the Word this afternoon will pick things up.
10.6-9 - With continued disobedience, comes continued oppression. Is that what he is trying to tell me?
11.7 - Often we do like Jephthah's brothers - come to God in distress when things are going bad instead of being loyal to him through everything. God may I not be lukewarm and scatterbrained when it comes to my relationship with you. May consistency be thematic in our time together.
11.39 - That Jephthah didn't argue or take back his vow to the Lord. I had to re-read this segment because I spaced out the first time. He killed his virgin daughter to serve as a burnt offering to God in repayment for victory in battle. His daughter was willing at that, didn't fuss at all. But said due to me what you told the Lord. What faith.
10.6-9 - With continued disobedience, comes continued oppression. Is that what he is trying to tell me?
11.7 - Often we do like Jephthah's brothers - come to God in distress when things are going bad instead of being loyal to him through everything. God may I not be lukewarm and scatterbrained when it comes to my relationship with you. May consistency be thematic in our time together.
11.39 - That Jephthah didn't argue or take back his vow to the Lord. I had to re-read this segment because I spaced out the first time. He killed his virgin daughter to serve as a burnt offering to God in repayment for victory in battle. His daughter was willing at that, didn't fuss at all. But said due to me what you told the Lord. What faith.
Tuesday, September 13, 2005
Yet pursuing
Well, I read too much yesterday, so today I only have 2 chapters. Guess I should look more closely, but I guess it really doesn't matter!
7.2 - God wants to make sure that only He is going to get the glory. We want things to happen here (especially at the Summit and in Durham) so that it can only be said, God Did it! We don't want any of the glory. God - take it all
7.1-8 - Gideon didn't complain any over this taking away of his army. He knew that God knew what He was doing - he was obedient and faithful.
8.4 - I like this phrase. "Exhausted yet pursuing". Gideon and his men were tired of the battle, but they were consistently pursuing the final goal - victory (and God's glory). Even when we get tired in ministry or in the daily Christian walk - let us be "exhausted yet pursuing" God's glory in His strength.
8.23 - Gideon knew his position and he knew that he couldn't rule the people like God could. He still wanted to defer all glory to God!
8.33 - See, the Israelites never learn do they. They have a great leader - follow after God, he dies - follow after Baal. I know leaders are important, but they can't be our reason for worshipping. If JD or Chris or Brad left, would the Summit fall apart. Oh, please don't let the success of the Summit church fall on these men.
7.2 - God wants to make sure that only He is going to get the glory. We want things to happen here (especially at the Summit and in Durham) so that it can only be said, God Did it! We don't want any of the glory. God - take it all
7.1-8 - Gideon didn't complain any over this taking away of his army. He knew that God knew what He was doing - he was obedient and faithful.
8.4 - I like this phrase. "Exhausted yet pursuing". Gideon and his men were tired of the battle, but they were consistently pursuing the final goal - victory (and God's glory). Even when we get tired in ministry or in the daily Christian walk - let us be "exhausted yet pursuing" God's glory in His strength.
8.23 - Gideon knew his position and he knew that he couldn't rule the people like God could. He still wanted to defer all glory to God!
8.33 - See, the Israelites never learn do they. They have a great leader - follow after God, he dies - follow after Baal. I know leaders are important, but they can't be our reason for worshipping. If JD or Chris or Brad left, would the Summit fall apart. Oh, please don't let the success of the Summit church fall on these men.
Monday, September 12, 2005
Sept 12, Judg 4-6
Jdg 4.1-10 - This is a popular feminist passage in the gender role issue. I will need to study it more. But, clearly this is a prophetic role and not an expositor or church leadership role. Joel says that men and women can prophecy. They are just taking what God has said to them and proclaiming it aloud. Deborah was being obedient to that particular situation. She wasn't in a church leadership role over Barak.
Chapter 4 - They start out doing evil in the sight of the Lord, then Deborah steps in and Barak leads them, then they are victorious because they have listened to the Word of the Lord and have obeyed it.
5.5 - Mt. Sinai - quakes at the presence of the Lord. Remembering when Moses was on top of that mtn and the God stood on that mtn and passed by Moses. How the creation must have relished that moment. But, this one says that even the mountains will shake at his presence. Friendship/Closeness and Truth/Fear.
5.11 - There they shall recount the righteous deeds of the Lord. Oh, that we can tell what God has done for us. His righteousness stands alone among the nations.
6.1 - So, they have listened to this great song and have had a great victory, then what happens...Then the sons of Israel did what was evil in the sight of the Lord. Will they ever learn? Will I ever learn? My relationship and communion with God is so up and down. I want the steady relationship of closeness with God - not going back and forth with sin.
6.7-10 - Then they whine when things aren't going right. Back and forth. When bad things happen then they want Jesus. But God says at the end. But you have not obeyed me. God wants our allegience all times, not just when it suits us. In Rev he says he doesn't like lukewarmness. That is definitely how the Israelites are. They are cold, hot, cold, hot. They find it hard to take a stand.
6.12-18 - God calls Gideon, Gideon offers excuses. But, but, but...If called, equipped. God will give us what we need to do the job for Him that he has called us to. We will not be able to do it in our own strength, but we will be able to do it in his. He wants and awaits are obedience and sacrifice.
6.31 - "If he is a god, then him contend for himself." Oh, that that nations would read this and listen. Dead gods, or non-existent ones can't contend for themselves. They can't if they are not. We see this clearly through the OT that God wins because He is GOD! The others aren't!
God will not take lightly anyone who dares to infringe on His holiness or take Him lightly. The Dew, the chopped-down gods and poles, the sacrifices with fire, the calling, the defeating and the victory. God is God and there is none other.
Chapter 4 - They start out doing evil in the sight of the Lord, then Deborah steps in and Barak leads them, then they are victorious because they have listened to the Word of the Lord and have obeyed it.
5.5 - Mt. Sinai - quakes at the presence of the Lord. Remembering when Moses was on top of that mtn and the God stood on that mtn and passed by Moses. How the creation must have relished that moment. But, this one says that even the mountains will shake at his presence. Friendship/Closeness and Truth/Fear.
5.11 - There they shall recount the righteous deeds of the Lord. Oh, that we can tell what God has done for us. His righteousness stands alone among the nations.
6.1 - So, they have listened to this great song and have had a great victory, then what happens...Then the sons of Israel did what was evil in the sight of the Lord. Will they ever learn? Will I ever learn? My relationship and communion with God is so up and down. I want the steady relationship of closeness with God - not going back and forth with sin.
6.7-10 - Then they whine when things aren't going right. Back and forth. When bad things happen then they want Jesus. But God says at the end. But you have not obeyed me. God wants our allegience all times, not just when it suits us. In Rev he says he doesn't like lukewarmness. That is definitely how the Israelites are. They are cold, hot, cold, hot. They find it hard to take a stand.
6.12-18 - God calls Gideon, Gideon offers excuses. But, but, but...If called, equipped. God will give us what we need to do the job for Him that he has called us to. We will not be able to do it in our own strength, but we will be able to do it in his. He wants and awaits are obedience and sacrifice.
6.31 - "If he is a god, then him contend for himself." Oh, that that nations would read this and listen. Dead gods, or non-existent ones can't contend for themselves. They can't if they are not. We see this clearly through the OT that God wins because He is GOD! The others aren't!
God will not take lightly anyone who dares to infringe on His holiness or take Him lightly. The Dew, the chopped-down gods and poles, the sacrifices with fire, the calling, the defeating and the victory. God is God and there is none other.
Sunday, September 11, 2005
Sept 11, Judges 1-3
A start of a new book but one that is similar to the theme of Revelation. God is holy, he will judge the unrighteous according to His law. He will judge those under Jesus by their works, but they will be all be covered by Jesus' blood. Lord - let me even rejoice in your word when I get to books like Judges - let me get something from it and like it and know that even some of the OT is still your inspired and perfect Word - given to us for a purpose!
So, to start with, the people of God have now lost 2 leaders - Moses and now Joshua. They are in store for another one to see who will lead them as they continue to dwell and conquer Canaan.
1.6 - Maybe they even knew then that it was hard to work with out a thumb and it is almost impossible to walk without your big toes because they provide balance.
2.1-5 - See, God is still holy. He told them to conquer and remove all the gods of the people in Canaan and make it a holy city. They chose to do things their own way and God was not pleased. So, there were consequences to pay.
2.12b - "They went after other gods". This is such a tell-tale little statement. Israel is prone to go after other gods. We see it throughout Scripture, but especially in the prophets. So, God lets them know who is still God, whether they choose Him or not. They get the wrath of God. We get God's anger and discipline today when we do not obey.
Chapter 3 - Ehud and Eglon - Two odd things are really all we know about them. Ehud was left handed and made a right thigh sword. This obviously was necessary to kill Eglon, but I don't know why. Eglon was a fat man. He was the king and did evil - so God raised up Ehud. And what a thought - lock him in the room so his guards will think he is going to the bathroom, so he will die and Ehud can escape. Oh, the things that go on in the OT.
So, to start with, the people of God have now lost 2 leaders - Moses and now Joshua. They are in store for another one to see who will lead them as they continue to dwell and conquer Canaan.
1.6 - Maybe they even knew then that it was hard to work with out a thumb and it is almost impossible to walk without your big toes because they provide balance.
2.1-5 - See, God is still holy. He told them to conquer and remove all the gods of the people in Canaan and make it a holy city. They chose to do things their own way and God was not pleased. So, there were consequences to pay.
2.12b - "They went after other gods". This is such a tell-tale little statement. Israel is prone to go after other gods. We see it throughout Scripture, but especially in the prophets. So, God lets them know who is still God, whether they choose Him or not. They get the wrath of God. We get God's anger and discipline today when we do not obey.
Chapter 3 - Ehud and Eglon - Two odd things are really all we know about them. Ehud was left handed and made a right thigh sword. This obviously was necessary to kill Eglon, but I don't know why. Eglon was a fat man. He was the king and did evil - so God raised up Ehud. And what a thought - lock him in the room so his guards will think he is going to the bathroom, so he will die and Ehud can escape. Oh, the things that go on in the OT.
Saturday, September 10, 2005
Sept 10, The end of Rev - 20-22
20.3 - Satan will get to a point where he can't deceive the nations any longer. Won't that be a great day!
20.15 - How clear this is. Most probably don't take it for what it is because they don't see Revelation that way - but whoever's name is not in the book (from the beginning of time) will be thrown into the Lake of Fire for eternal torment and separation from their creator.
22.17 - All the free stuff God wants to provide for us - all we must say is Its all you, Jesus, and none of me - Save me. That is it. Free water, free life!
Come Lord Jesus.
20.15 - How clear this is. Most probably don't take it for what it is because they don't see Revelation that way - but whoever's name is not in the book (from the beginning of time) will be thrown into the Lake of Fire for eternal torment and separation from their creator.
22.17 - All the free stuff God wants to provide for us - all we must say is Its all you, Jesus, and none of me - Save me. That is it. Free water, free life!
Come Lord Jesus.
Friday, September 09, 2005
Sept 9, Rev 17-19
17.6 - I often think, and rightly so, that the world is mocking us (because the Cross is foolishness to those who are perishing) even as the UNC student did last night as he walked through the Quad. Even the woman here holds the blood of the saints in her bowl. I can see her just laughing at the ones who died for the Gospel.
17.14 - We know there is a war coming, but unlike any unknown victor in the wars we now face (Iraq, New Orleans, whatever) we know who the victor is. I want to be with him, be victorious, be chosen, faithful and called. "What the law could not do - God did!"
18.7b - Even as the woman starts out haughty and bragging about her luxury - so is the world - bragging they are not dead, they are having more fun than we. But, as JD said, we are all guilty and dying. No two ways about it. As the Word says here she will face no mourning
18.8 - but as the next verse says. Death and mourning and famine, she will be burned up with fire, for mighty is the Lord God who has judged her.
19.2 His judgments are true and just. No judgment that God pours out on the earth is unfair or wrong or undeserved. As JD said and Piper said, its not that He is being so cruel to people on the Gulf or in Indonesia, but that He is being so gracious to us! Oh, that we may live under grace today!
God sits on his throne and is perfect in all He does - as He judges and rewards in fairness and grace.
17.14 - We know there is a war coming, but unlike any unknown victor in the wars we now face (Iraq, New Orleans, whatever) we know who the victor is. I want to be with him, be victorious, be chosen, faithful and called. "What the law could not do - God did!"
18.7b - Even as the woman starts out haughty and bragging about her luxury - so is the world - bragging they are not dead, they are having more fun than we. But, as JD said, we are all guilty and dying. No two ways about it. As the Word says here she will face no mourning
18.8 - but as the next verse says. Death and mourning and famine, she will be burned up with fire, for mighty is the Lord God who has judged her.
19.2 His judgments are true and just. No judgment that God pours out on the earth is unfair or wrong or undeserved. As JD said and Piper said, its not that He is being so cruel to people on the Gulf or in Indonesia, but that He is being so gracious to us! Oh, that we may live under grace today!
God sits on his throne and is perfect in all He does - as He judges and rewards in fairness and grace.
Thursday, September 08, 2005
Sept 8, rev 14-16
14.3 - Only the redeemed will be able to sing the new song. Shouldn't we also be singing a new and different song here on earth. Even as Louie said last night - we should be other than the world.
14.7 "Fear God and give him glory". This is very similar to "grace and truth" as Louie preached last night. There definitely is grace, but there is also truth - fear - holy and righteous that Jesus holds. We will see it when we behold the Lamb.
14.11 - "And the smoke of their torment goes on forever and ever". This puts an end to all the thoughts about annihilationism. It just isn't the case. Those who reject God will never be eased from their pain and death.
14.12 - Here's another call for endurance of the saints. If we don't have to go through any tribution, why would we need endurance and perseverance? Post-trib?
15.3-4 - Listen to thse attributes that Moses and John both say about Jesus, or God: Great, Amazing, Just, True, Feared, King of the Nations, Glorious, Holy, Worshipped, Righteous.
16.6 - The justness of God. This is what we, all of us, deserve. Wrath of God. We deserve nothing more than that because you are holy and we have sinned against you. Thank you for grace! It is so undeserved.
16.9 - Why not, why would they not repent. God had hardened their hearts and blinded their eyes to his truth. Only God can open them.
God thank you for opening my eyes to your glory. Thank you Jesus that you died on a cross for me and I have you and you are my friend. Thank you that I have hope - not only today, but also in the days to come, near and far. You are that inexplainable hope!
14.7 "Fear God and give him glory". This is very similar to "grace and truth" as Louie preached last night. There definitely is grace, but there is also truth - fear - holy and righteous that Jesus holds. We will see it when we behold the Lamb.
14.11 - "And the smoke of their torment goes on forever and ever". This puts an end to all the thoughts about annihilationism. It just isn't the case. Those who reject God will never be eased from their pain and death.
14.12 - Here's another call for endurance of the saints. If we don't have to go through any tribution, why would we need endurance and perseverance? Post-trib?
15.3-4 - Listen to thse attributes that Moses and John both say about Jesus, or God: Great, Amazing, Just, True, Feared, King of the Nations, Glorious, Holy, Worshipped, Righteous.
16.6 - The justness of God. This is what we, all of us, deserve. Wrath of God. We deserve nothing more than that because you are holy and we have sinned against you. Thank you for grace! It is so undeserved.
16.9 - Why not, why would they not repent. God had hardened their hearts and blinded their eyes to his truth. Only God can open them.
God thank you for opening my eyes to your glory. Thank you Jesus that you died on a cross for me and I have you and you are my friend. Thank you that I have hope - not only today, but also in the days to come, near and far. You are that inexplainable hope!
Wednesday, September 07, 2005
Sept 7, Rev 11-13
Restore unto me, the joy of your salvation, and renew a right spirit within me
11.13 - God can and does use any means necessary for people to give Him the glory and attention He deserves. Whether that is a tsunami to open up the closed doors of Aceh or the gulf coast to send in missionaries to help relieve suffering - HE is in charge, and people will come to know him through it.
13.4 - Even people then, especially now towards the end times, follow things of the dragon. Even with all these bad things: haughty and blasphemous words... They marveled at Him. Lord, never let me get distracted by the dragon.
13.10 - Why would God say, here is a call for the endurance and faith of the saints' if we weren't going to be here during the tribulation?
Father, Protector, let me now sway, let me know the times that are coming, let me be aware of any signs that may lead to that coming, but let me remain true and faithful to you in every circumstance "for the days are evil".
11.13 - God can and does use any means necessary for people to give Him the glory and attention He deserves. Whether that is a tsunami to open up the closed doors of Aceh or the gulf coast to send in missionaries to help relieve suffering - HE is in charge, and people will come to know him through it.
13.4 - Even people then, especially now towards the end times, follow things of the dragon. Even with all these bad things: haughty and blasphemous words... They marveled at Him. Lord, never let me get distracted by the dragon.
13.10 - Why would God say, here is a call for the endurance and faith of the saints' if we weren't going to be here during the tribulation?
Father, Protector, let me now sway, let me know the times that are coming, let me be aware of any signs that may lead to that coming, but let me remain true and faithful to you in every circumstance "for the days are evil".
Tuesday, September 06, 2005
Sept 6, Rev 7-10
7.9-10 - People from every tribe and nation are going to know that Salvation is God's and God's alone. That means people in Indonesia and Craig, Alaska and Costa Rica and Australia and Nepel and China. All these people will know that God is God! None of these other gods are doing anything because they are either dead or non-existent.
7.14 - Why wouldn't we have to go through the great tribulation? From my basic reading of the Word we would have to be post-trib, but I haven't read it all yet either.
8.1 - Silence in all of heaven. All waiting for Jesus to speak. What a sight that has to be. All in awe and wonder of what the Son of Man will do. I think we need to take better look at that and be silent in front of God sometimes and watch what he is going to do.
9.4 - They were only allowed to torment those without the seal of God on their foreheads - that meant some believers (with seals) had to be there. (Refer to 7.14)
9.6 - If people read this verse surely they would turn to God. Oh but wait, Revelation isn't really true its all alleghory. No! It is in the Word of God so it is true, and they will die and spend eternity in hell if they don't have Jesus.
7.14 - Why wouldn't we have to go through the great tribulation? From my basic reading of the Word we would have to be post-trib, but I haven't read it all yet either.
8.1 - Silence in all of heaven. All waiting for Jesus to speak. What a sight that has to be. All in awe and wonder of what the Son of Man will do. I think we need to take better look at that and be silent in front of God sometimes and watch what he is going to do.
9.4 - They were only allowed to torment those without the seal of God on their foreheads - that meant some believers (with seals) had to be there. (Refer to 7.14)
9.6 - If people read this verse surely they would turn to God. Oh but wait, Revelation isn't really true its all alleghory. No! It is in the Word of God so it is true, and they will die and spend eternity in hell if they don't have Jesus.
Monday, September 05, 2005
Missionary thoughts on Zech 13
This was brought to mind as I was reading in a book by Noel Piper today: This is a story of Helen Roseveare. This is what she had to say about her own conversion. I'll link it to Zech 13.1
"For years the Holy Spirit had been opening my eyes to a sense of sin, convicting me of my unworthiness before a Holy God. But now came the wonderful gift of repentance. God poured out His grace in forgiveness, in cleansing from all the uncleanness of sin, and in revealing, at this time, the amazing wonder of the friendship of Christ."
13.1 - On that day there shall be a fountain opened (Christ) for the house of David and the inhabitants of Jerusalem, to cleanse them from sin and uncleanness."
The Holy Spirit will bring to remembrance His Word when it is in you (John 14-16)
"For years the Holy Spirit had been opening my eyes to a sense of sin, convicting me of my unworthiness before a Holy God. But now came the wonderful gift of repentance. God poured out His grace in forgiveness, in cleansing from all the uncleanness of sin, and in revealing, at this time, the amazing wonder of the friendship of Christ."
13.1 - On that day there shall be a fountain opened (Christ) for the house of David and the inhabitants of Jerusalem, to cleanse them from sin and uncleanness."
The Holy Spirit will bring to remembrance His Word when it is in you (John 14-16)
Sept 5, Rev 4-6
who are the elders? I don't know. I don't think it is important or God would have told us. One thing I find out in this chapter is that they are worshippers. That's important to know
Just a thought, I'm listening to Shane and Shane's "Sweet Illumination" right now. God, I want that, to know This Man. Thank you for the reward of your presence!
4.8 - the four living creatures were much like the Seraphs in Is 6 - covering their faces and crying out to God's holiness. Its funny. How often we want to see the face of God and plead for it. But, most places where we see others in Scripture face to face with God - they are covering their face. Like John in chapt 1 - he fell down as dead. What are we missing?
4.10 - worship = prostrate. So literally this verse says " The 24 elders fall prostrate before him who is seated on the throne and fall prostrate to Him who lives forever and ever. They keep doing it. It is habitually and necessary, but it never grows old. Our feet won't go to sleep and our knees won't hurt!
4.11b - How and why we exist: "For you created all things, and by your will they existed and were created". We were created for God through Jesus (the spoken word) and only exist to do the will of God.
5.9 Their new song, "Worthy are you...for you were slain and by your blood you ransomed people for God from every tribe and language, and people and nation." Not by our good works or because we go to the right church or sing the right hymns. But, by the BLOOD. It has to be a blood gospel. Even if Joel Osteen doesn't preach it. The Bible is right - we don't live by the standards of the Osteen clan.
6.9-10 Even the ones who had been slain for the Word of God (and are continuing in that trend) called God "O Sovereign Lord" They died for Him and didn't question His control and reign over everything! Oh even in the little things in life, when they go wrong, may I continue to say that!
6.17 - The great day of wrath has come and who can stand? No one can stand without the blood of Jesus. Only that will allow us to stand in that day.
Just a thought, I'm listening to Shane and Shane's "Sweet Illumination" right now. God, I want that, to know This Man. Thank you for the reward of your presence!
4.8 - the four living creatures were much like the Seraphs in Is 6 - covering their faces and crying out to God's holiness. Its funny. How often we want to see the face of God and plead for it. But, most places where we see others in Scripture face to face with God - they are covering their face. Like John in chapt 1 - he fell down as dead. What are we missing?
4.10 - worship = prostrate. So literally this verse says " The 24 elders fall prostrate before him who is seated on the throne and fall prostrate to Him who lives forever and ever. They keep doing it. It is habitually and necessary, but it never grows old. Our feet won't go to sleep and our knees won't hurt!
4.11b - How and why we exist: "For you created all things, and by your will they existed and were created". We were created for God through Jesus (the spoken word) and only exist to do the will of God.
5.9 Their new song, "Worthy are you...for you were slain and by your blood you ransomed people for God from every tribe and language, and people and nation." Not by our good works or because we go to the right church or sing the right hymns. But, by the BLOOD. It has to be a blood gospel. Even if Joel Osteen doesn't preach it. The Bible is right - we don't live by the standards of the Osteen clan.
6.9-10 Even the ones who had been slain for the Word of God (and are continuing in that trend) called God "O Sovereign Lord" They died for Him and didn't question His control and reign over everything! Oh even in the little things in life, when they go wrong, may I continue to say that!
6.17 - The great day of wrath has come and who can stand? No one can stand without the blood of Jesus. Only that will allow us to stand in that day.
Sunday, September 04, 2005
Rev 1-3
Even though I have taken a class on this I do not claim to be an expert, much more not even a novice. Lord, I pray for understanding and increase my grasp and handle on my eschatology and what is going to happen when you return. Give me glimpses of what life needs to be like in light of that soon coming. I'll echo John's prayer at the beginning of this: Come Lord Jesus.
1.3 - "blessed are those who here, AND who keep what is written in it." not only is it unprofitable just to hear, (this is something that is said throughout Scripture and the next three chapters), but also it is even meant, that you can't hear and not do. We will be happy when we do what is written in this Word.
1.5-8 This is what John saw and wrote about Jesus: the faithful witness (of the Father - in the gospel of John), firstborn of the dead (Col 1), ruler of the kings of the earth (Ps 2), loves us (John 3), freed us from our sins by His blood (John 8), made us a kingdom (Heb), coming with clouds (all the pictures we see in churches or on felt boards), every eye will see him (Phil 2),
1.7b - All tribes of the earth will wail (or mourn) on account of him. Even so. Amen. What the end of this says literally is even so, so be it. Well, this is going to happen, so let it happen. God gets all the glory - even so be it!
1.8 - One of my fave attributes of God - his eternalness. Alpha and Omega - that means nothing is outside of your grasp or range of power.
1.9c - John was on the island due to the word God and testimony of Jesus. That means he was exiled because He was preaching the gospel. If he hadn't been preaching - then he would have missed out on one of the greatest revelations of all times. Be faithful in the little things
1.16 - JD pointed this out today - out of Jesus' mouth came a two-edged sword. This is exactly how the Word, the Bible, is referred to in the Word - a sharp two-edged sword. Jesus is the Word.
The churches:
Ephesus: Paul had visited and ministered and written a letter. Jesus starts good, talking of their patience and their ousting of false teachers (that meant they had to know true doctrine). But...they lost their first love. Maybe they got so wrapped up in doctrine, that they forget just to love Jesus.
Smyrna: He told them that even though they suffered, more suffering was coming and not to be afraid of it. "Be faithful unto death, and I will give you the crown of life" If we are faithful and conquer in Him this life, than we will not taste the second death. Praise Jesus!
Pergamum: Even in a rough city, they did not renounce the name of Jesus. He says they do two sins, both against the body: food eaten to idols, and sexual impurity. Hidden manna - in the wilderness God provided for their daily need with manna - what to look forward to "the hidden manna"
Thyatira: Works, love, faith, service, patience - they also seemed to get better with time - the latter exceeded. He didn't like false teachers in the cities - He will punish them. "I am he who searches mind and heart."
Sardis: Doesn't start out good here - he knows they are dead. "I have not found your works complete in the sight of my God" - condemning words out of the two-edged sword.
Philly: "I know you have but little power, and yet you have kept my word and have not denied my name." There is much power in that!
Laodicea: "So because you are lukewarm, I will spit you out of my mouth" God, I do not want to be your spit. That is gross - do not let me be lukewarm. Keep the fervency for your name and your glory - only you can do that. "Those whom I love, I reprove and discipline" - look to Zech and the thoughts on that. Jesus wants intimacy with us: give up sin Kim so that He might have it.
1.3 - "blessed are those who here, AND who keep what is written in it." not only is it unprofitable just to hear, (this is something that is said throughout Scripture and the next three chapters), but also it is even meant, that you can't hear and not do. We will be happy when we do what is written in this Word.
1.5-8 This is what John saw and wrote about Jesus: the faithful witness (of the Father - in the gospel of John), firstborn of the dead (Col 1), ruler of the kings of the earth (Ps 2), loves us (John 3), freed us from our sins by His blood (John 8), made us a kingdom (Heb), coming with clouds (all the pictures we see in churches or on felt boards), every eye will see him (Phil 2),
1.7b - All tribes of the earth will wail (or mourn) on account of him. Even so. Amen. What the end of this says literally is even so, so be it. Well, this is going to happen, so let it happen. God gets all the glory - even so be it!
1.8 - One of my fave attributes of God - his eternalness. Alpha and Omega - that means nothing is outside of your grasp or range of power.
1.9c - John was on the island due to the word God and testimony of Jesus. That means he was exiled because He was preaching the gospel. If he hadn't been preaching - then he would have missed out on one of the greatest revelations of all times. Be faithful in the little things
1.16 - JD pointed this out today - out of Jesus' mouth came a two-edged sword. This is exactly how the Word, the Bible, is referred to in the Word - a sharp two-edged sword. Jesus is the Word.
The churches:
Ephesus: Paul had visited and ministered and written a letter. Jesus starts good, talking of their patience and their ousting of false teachers (that meant they had to know true doctrine). But...they lost their first love. Maybe they got so wrapped up in doctrine, that they forget just to love Jesus.
Smyrna: He told them that even though they suffered, more suffering was coming and not to be afraid of it. "Be faithful unto death, and I will give you the crown of life" If we are faithful and conquer in Him this life, than we will not taste the second death. Praise Jesus!
Pergamum: Even in a rough city, they did not renounce the name of Jesus. He says they do two sins, both against the body: food eaten to idols, and sexual impurity. Hidden manna - in the wilderness God provided for their daily need with manna - what to look forward to "the hidden manna"
Thyatira: Works, love, faith, service, patience - they also seemed to get better with time - the latter exceeded. He didn't like false teachers in the cities - He will punish them. "I am he who searches mind and heart."
Sardis: Doesn't start out good here - he knows they are dead. "I have not found your works complete in the sight of my God" - condemning words out of the two-edged sword.
Philly: "I know you have but little power, and yet you have kept my word and have not denied my name." There is much power in that!
Laodicea: "So because you are lukewarm, I will spit you out of my mouth" God, I do not want to be your spit. That is gross - do not let me be lukewarm. Keep the fervency for your name and your glory - only you can do that. "Those whom I love, I reprove and discipline" - look to Zech and the thoughts on that. Jesus wants intimacy with us: give up sin Kim so that He might have it.
Zech 13-14
The end of Zechariah - only two chapters. I was tired when I read this and really didn't even want to do it because of a slight bug problem when I arrived back in NC, but knew God wanted me to be faithful to His Word.
13.1 - He is a fountain for cleansing. For sin - which is obvious, but also for Uncleanness: results of our sin that in OT times restricted the people from worshipping in the temple. God even cleanses us from that!
13.9 - He refines his own. He disciplines His children. So the opposite should be true. If we aren't being disciplined in our lives: something's wrong!
13.1 - He is a fountain for cleansing. For sin - which is obvious, but also for Uncleanness: results of our sin that in OT times restricted the people from worshipping in the temple. God even cleanses us from that!
13.9 - He refines his own. He disciplines His children. So the opposite should be true. If we aren't being disciplined in our lives: something's wrong!
Zech 9-12
OK, so I read one chapter too many today. I guess that means I have one less to read tomorrow. The posting late is due to staying in St. Augustine and only having access to dial-up, so I didn't want to control the Crum's telephone line.
9.1 - burden of the Word. It is not a light manner in which God has given us his God-breathed Word. We are to take it with the intentions that He gave it to us.
Hadrach and Damascus were the judging places of the Lord. We can't get away from God (even as Jonah couldn't). Everything we do and say and think is known by God. Zech likens silver to dust and gold to mud. Even the most valuable things in the world to us are as rubble to God because they are worthless. Lord will strip: possessions, sea power, devoured by fire. These were port cities where the main means of income and prosperity was sea. They had no more power on the sea and that probably meant they couldn't control the enemies who attacked, and that led to the destruction by fire they experiences.
9.7 - these were given to be a remnant That is only by the grace and mercy of God.
9.9 - These were prophecies about the coming of Jesus that came true: king is coming to you, righteous, having salvation, humble, mounted on a donkey, speak peace to the nations, to the ends of the earth.
9.11 - the blood covenant with you referred back to the Exodus. God constantly reminded them of his faithfulness to them as He delivered them from the Egyptians. Oh, how often we forget God's faithfulness to us.
9.17 - "For how great is his goodness, and how great is his beauty" - even in the midst of the Tsunami and Katrina
10.1 - He will give rain
10.2 - Nonsense, lies, false dreams, empty consolation, wander like sheep, afflicted for lack of a shepherd (compare all to Jesus as the Good Shepherd)
10.3a - His anger burns against the leaders. How leaders are held to such a higher standard. I need to remember that as I lead in the power and strength that God provides (1 Peter)
10.5 - "mighty tramping the Lord is with them" We are only strong in battle because of the Lord's presence among us and His going before us. May we never take credit for anything that we win or have victory over in life.
12.10 - More prophecies: whom they have pierced, we shall mourn for Him
9.1 - burden of the Word. It is not a light manner in which God has given us his God-breathed Word. We are to take it with the intentions that He gave it to us.
Hadrach and Damascus were the judging places of the Lord. We can't get away from God (even as Jonah couldn't). Everything we do and say and think is known by God. Zech likens silver to dust and gold to mud. Even the most valuable things in the world to us are as rubble to God because they are worthless. Lord will strip: possessions, sea power, devoured by fire. These were port cities where the main means of income and prosperity was sea. They had no more power on the sea and that probably meant they couldn't control the enemies who attacked, and that led to the destruction by fire they experiences.
9.7 - these were given to be a remnant That is only by the grace and mercy of God.
9.9 - These were prophecies about the coming of Jesus that came true: king is coming to you, righteous, having salvation, humble, mounted on a donkey, speak peace to the nations, to the ends of the earth.
9.11 - the blood covenant with you referred back to the Exodus. God constantly reminded them of his faithfulness to them as He delivered them from the Egyptians. Oh, how often we forget God's faithfulness to us.
9.17 - "For how great is his goodness, and how great is his beauty" - even in the midst of the Tsunami and Katrina
10.1 - He will give rain
10.2 - Nonsense, lies, false dreams, empty consolation, wander like sheep, afflicted for lack of a shepherd (compare all to Jesus as the Good Shepherd)
10.3a - His anger burns against the leaders. How leaders are held to such a higher standard. I need to remember that as I lead in the power and strength that God provides (1 Peter)
10.5 - "mighty tramping the Lord is with them" We are only strong in battle because of the Lord's presence among us and His going before us. May we never take credit for anything that we win or have victory over in life.
12.10 - More prophecies: whom they have pierced, we shall mourn for Him
Thursday, September 01, 2005
Additional to today's
As I was starting to work on a lesson for Bible study, I found this. The Branch, which I referenced back to Zech 6 is a Hebrew name for God that is "tsemach" that can also be found in chapter 3 and Is 4.2, Jer 23.5, 33.15 It is amazing again how the Word weaves!
September 1, ZechAriah 5-8
It is a new month and I finally learned how to spell Zechariah right. So much for internet searches - I should have just looked at my Bible closely!
I just found out that my fave Bible is coming out with a study version - the ESV (English Standard Version) and CJ Mahaney (The Cross Centered Life, Sovereign Grace Ministries, Josh Harris' pastor in MD) is on the board. It is lead by Dr. Wayne Grudem who is a conservative theological scholar! It is due out in 2008 - so I've got a while to wait. Now, back to the task at hand.
Zech 5-8 (prophecy is a little hard to understand ya know!)
IOUS
5.3 - Even though this was spoken to the people by Zech, it was meant even for everyone, even us (who are now hearing the words). Even for me. I are under the wrath of God (in his mercy by Jesus) when I sin - let me remember that and be more careful to do things that are pleasing to Him. Rom 1
Interesting side note on these verses: this was a time when the people were stealing from the worship places. Stealing the offerings and sacrifices of worship and using them for their own good. That is why the two (stealing and profaning) are together. Reminds me not to steal God's glory and want it for my own in periods of worship.
How has the gold become dim! Israel was holiness to the Lord (Jer. 2:3); but now this is wickedness, and wickedness is nowhere so scandalous, so odious, and, in many instances, so outrageous, as when it is found among professors of religion. This is from Matthew Henry's commentary as he talks about 5.5-11. The ephah (basket) as a tool used for measuring corn to take to market. The woman was a harlot sitting on top of it. It is likened unto the church and how we use things for our selfish gain and not the gain of the glory of God - its head, Jesus, as we read about in Col 1. (See the working together of the Word).
6.11 SIDE NOTE - The "Joshua" that the writer was contemp to, was not the Joshua I thought he was - boy, I sure don't know my timeline for the OT. the NT is so much easier! Anyway...
6.15b - "And this shall come to pass, if you will diligently obey the voice of the LORD your God." This was not a saying of the "what we do determines what happens" as probably some scholars will hear it is. But, this is just the word of the Lord telling us to obey the will of the Lord.
Another cool thing that Henry wrote - how true this is, I need to write this down elsewhere:
for the more we know of God and his will, if we know it aright, the more desirous we shall be to get a further acquaintance with God.
6.9-15
A look at Joshua and Jesus (both their names mean the same thing)
Joshua Jesus
crowned high priest is our high priest (Hebrews)
branch vinedresser (John)
sits and rules on the throne He stands forever - by the throne of God
counsel of peace Our prince of peace (Is 9)
7.5 A word of judging the heart (as only God can do) - 'was it for me you fasted' - How often do I do what I do for God out of the delight of others. God, even as I've prayed this morning, 'unite my heart to fear your name'. Don't let me fear the praise of men or do things for their liking. That me do what I do for your praise and not want the praise of man. Oh, how hard that is for me to do. This was said not only to the people, but also to the priests. This goes to show that not only do "normal" people have this problem, but so do the leaders of our churches - which we see so often today.
7.11-12 - "they stopped their ears that they might not hear." I can almost see it. Here are they being chastised by the word of God through Zech and they plug their ears with their fingers and sing lalalalalalalalalalalalala...I can't hear you. The way I do this is two fold: I don't read the Word because I know it will be convicting, and I listen but I don't hear and practice.
7.13 "As I called, and they didn't hear, so they called, and I would not hear" How I have found to be true that answers to prayer come with obedience. Not that this is a determination of God working, because God works at his will, but obedience and prayer go hand in hand.
8.23 - May people say this is of us (particularly in Durham, and everywhere the Word of TRUTH is spoken: Let us go with you, for we have heard that God is with you'.
Wow - what a good chapter - and I wonder why I never read the minor prohets - they have good stuff in them. It just takes a little more hard work to get to the nuggets!
I just found out that my fave Bible is coming out with a study version - the ESV (English Standard Version) and CJ Mahaney (The Cross Centered Life, Sovereign Grace Ministries, Josh Harris' pastor in MD) is on the board. It is lead by Dr. Wayne Grudem who is a conservative theological scholar! It is due out in 2008 - so I've got a while to wait. Now, back to the task at hand.
Zech 5-8 (prophecy is a little hard to understand ya know!)
IOUS
5.3 - Even though this was spoken to the people by Zech, it was meant even for everyone, even us (who are now hearing the words). Even for me. I are under the wrath of God (in his mercy by Jesus) when I sin - let me remember that and be more careful to do things that are pleasing to Him. Rom 1
Interesting side note on these verses: this was a time when the people were stealing from the worship places. Stealing the offerings and sacrifices of worship and using them for their own good. That is why the two (stealing and profaning) are together. Reminds me not to steal God's glory and want it for my own in periods of worship.
How has the gold become dim! Israel was holiness to the Lord (Jer. 2:3); but now this is wickedness, and wickedness is nowhere so scandalous, so odious, and, in many instances, so outrageous, as when it is found among professors of religion. This is from Matthew Henry's commentary as he talks about 5.5-11. The ephah (basket) as a tool used for measuring corn to take to market. The woman was a harlot sitting on top of it. It is likened unto the church and how we use things for our selfish gain and not the gain of the glory of God - its head, Jesus, as we read about in Col 1. (See the working together of the Word).
6.11 SIDE NOTE - The "Joshua" that the writer was contemp to, was not the Joshua I thought he was - boy, I sure don't know my timeline for the OT. the NT is so much easier! Anyway...
6.15b - "And this shall come to pass, if you will diligently obey the voice of the LORD your God." This was not a saying of the "what we do determines what happens" as probably some scholars will hear it is. But, this is just the word of the Lord telling us to obey the will of the Lord.
Another cool thing that Henry wrote - how true this is, I need to write this down elsewhere:
for the more we know of God and his will, if we know it aright, the more desirous we shall be to get a further acquaintance with God.
6.9-15
A look at Joshua and Jesus (both their names mean the same thing)
Joshua Jesus
crowned high priest is our high priest (Hebrews)
branch vinedresser (John)
sits and rules on the throne He stands forever - by the throne of God
counsel of peace Our prince of peace (Is 9)
7.5 A word of judging the heart (as only God can do) - 'was it for me you fasted' - How often do I do what I do for God out of the delight of others. God, even as I've prayed this morning, 'unite my heart to fear your name'. Don't let me fear the praise of men or do things for their liking. That me do what I do for your praise and not want the praise of man. Oh, how hard that is for me to do. This was said not only to the people, but also to the priests. This goes to show that not only do "normal" people have this problem, but so do the leaders of our churches - which we see so often today.
7.11-12 - "they stopped their ears that they might not hear." I can almost see it. Here are they being chastised by the word of God through Zech and they plug their ears with their fingers and sing lalalalalalalalalalalalala...I can't hear you. The way I do this is two fold: I don't read the Word because I know it will be convicting, and I listen but I don't hear and practice.
7.13 "As I called, and they didn't hear, so they called, and I would not hear" How I have found to be true that answers to prayer come with obedience. Not that this is a determination of God working, because God works at his will, but obedience and prayer go hand in hand.
8.23 - May people say this is of us (particularly in Durham, and everywhere the Word of TRUTH is spoken: Let us go with you, for we have heard that God is with you'.
Wow - what a good chapter - and I wonder why I never read the minor prohets - they have good stuff in them. It just takes a little more hard work to get to the nuggets!
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