Psalm 122
What makes you happy and brings you joy? What is the high point of your day and of your week? When you have a day free from obligations, or maybe just a spare hour or so, what activity would you fill it with? When looking back over the last week or last month, what would you list as some of the highlights? One thing that King David, who wrote our psalm for today, would answer would be when he went to the tabernacle to worship and pray to God.
As our psalm opens, David tells how happy he was when he and his companions would go together to worship God at the tabernacle. The tabernacle was the portable, tent-like structure where the Ark of the Covenant and sacrificial altar was, where Yahweh was worshipped before the construction of the Temple. The Temple would not be built until later, after David was dead and his son Solomon was king. Going to meet God in worship on a regular basis made David glad. He desired to worship in God’s house with his family and friends (vs. 1). As David’s many psalms tell, he knew that he was created to worship God.
Is going to church, to God’s house, a chore or a delight for us? Do we moan about having to get up Sunday mornings, on a day that we might otherwise be able to sleep later? How about attending a weekday evening prayer meeting or Bible study? Do we prefer to stay home, saying that we’ve worked hard all day and need to rest, taking it easy before the TV? David was certainly a busy man, being king of the nation of Israel. Yet one of his most desired activities was to go to God’s house and worship, sing, and pray to Yahweh. He found that a delight. David wanted to attend worship services. Some people have reasons they cannot attend church services regularly, such as illness, or caring for one who is ill. Maybe they have no way to get there, or they have a job that requires working at the time of church services. However, if we find that we frequently avoid attending church when we could, it might be that our love for God has cooled, or perhaps there is unconfessed sin in our life.
As King David continued the remainder of his psalm, he speaks of his capital city Jerusalem, where the Temple would later be built. Once the Temple would be built, the people of Israel would come to Jerusalem in pilgrimage and gather together in worship of God during religious festivals and holy days (vs. 4). The thrones of judgment (vs. 5) were the courts of justice, which in Biblical times were by the city gates. Judges sat and heard legal disputes there. Sometimes the king would also sit there, bringing justice to the people. Justice is important to the Lord. He desires the nations to dispense justice for people, and His righteous anger is aroused when people do not receive fair and impartial treatment in court or by the law.
In verses 6-8 David prayed for peace. David wasn’t praying for his own peace or prosperity, but for his people, the city of Jerusalem, and the country. This was intercessory prayer for others. As believers, we need to not only pray for ourselves, our own personal needs, and for our family, but also for the needs of others. When you toss a stone out into a lake, you can observe the rings it makes on the water, extending outward further and further. When we pray, we should pray for ourselves and family, then extend outward to friends, fellow church members, co-workers. Then outward further to the neighborhood, the city, state, and country, and even further to the whole world. There are many things to pray for, but as David mentions, one important one is for peace.
David wasn’t only praying for peace, as in the absence of conflict. Peace also means spiritual completeness, health, justice, protection, and blessings. The world cannot provide this peace. Only a faith relationship with God can bring this. We should pray, as David did, to have peace of mind, peace with others, and peace with God.
Monday, December 2, 2019
Saturday, November 30, 2019
When Peace Will Come
Isaiah 2:1-5
Today marks the beginning of the Christian season of Advent, the first of four Sundays prior to Christmas. Advent is the season of preparation for the celebration of Christmas, Jesus’ nativity, and also expectant waiting for His return at the Second Coming. The word Advent in English comes from the Latin word “adventum”, which means appearing or coming. Jesus appeared on earth the first time in human flesh as an infant, and it is His birth we celebrate at Christmas. He will appear on earth a second time as the returning King to judge the living and dead at His Second Coming. That future event we eagerly await. Our Old Testament Scripture passage for this week comes from the prophet Isaiah, and pictures some events that will happen at the time of Jesus’ Second Coming, which we look forward to.
The city of Jerusalem was built upon several “mountains” or large hills. Upon one of these hills King Solomon built the Temple, where the people came to worship Yahweh for several centuries until it was destroyed at the time of the Babylonian captivity. Another temple was built upon the Temple Mount when the Jewish people returned from captivity. This temple was destroyed by the Romans in 70 AD. Isaiah prophesied a day when God’s children will flock to this mountain in worship of the Lord (vs. 2). This day has not happened yet, but will occur when Jesus returns the second time.
This world is desperately seeking peace. Politicians promise to work for peace. Religious leaders preach about peace. Organizations are founded to try and bring peaceful relations between people and nations. Counselors and therapists try and work for peace between individuals and within oneself. So many people desiring peace, and yet this world does not see it happening. So many nations have a giant arsenal of weapons stored up, ready to use at a moments notice. People are so ready to clobber each other at the slightest hint of a supposed insult.
Yet here we read from the prophet Isaiah of a day coming when there will be peace between nations and individuals (vs. 4). We all want this to happen. When will this day occur? The day that Isaiah prophesies about will happen when the Lord Jesus returns. There will be wars until the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6) returns to earth to put an end to them. When Jesus reigns, peace will come to the earth. The instruments of war will be turned into instruments of farming. Instead of killing, they will be turned into something that will bring life and nourishment.
When Jesus, the Messiah, reigns from His throne, which will be established in Jerusalem, the world will enjoy peace. At this time Jerusalem, which has been the sight of so much conflict and bloodshed for numerous centuries, will be exalted, as Jesus will reign from there. In Jesus’ messianic kingdom, all people will recognize Jerusalem as the capital of the world (vs. 2-3).
In addition to peace between nations, there will also be peace between individual people (vs. 3). People will come together and desire to learn about God and worship Him in truth together. We will be taught God’s laws, and all will obey them.
Isn’t this a day that we eagerly look forward to? In addition to looking forward to Christmas, Advent points us to look forward to Jesus’ return. Though world peace won’t happen until He returns, we, as His children, can live in that way with each other. When we follow and obey the Lord’s Word, we will walk in His light (vs. 5). Without God, we can only grope in the darkness.
Today marks the beginning of the Christian season of Advent, the first of four Sundays prior to Christmas. Advent is the season of preparation for the celebration of Christmas, Jesus’ nativity, and also expectant waiting for His return at the Second Coming. The word Advent in English comes from the Latin word “adventum”, which means appearing or coming. Jesus appeared on earth the first time in human flesh as an infant, and it is His birth we celebrate at Christmas. He will appear on earth a second time as the returning King to judge the living and dead at His Second Coming. That future event we eagerly await. Our Old Testament Scripture passage for this week comes from the prophet Isaiah, and pictures some events that will happen at the time of Jesus’ Second Coming, which we look forward to.
The city of Jerusalem was built upon several “mountains” or large hills. Upon one of these hills King Solomon built the Temple, where the people came to worship Yahweh for several centuries until it was destroyed at the time of the Babylonian captivity. Another temple was built upon the Temple Mount when the Jewish people returned from captivity. This temple was destroyed by the Romans in 70 AD. Isaiah prophesied a day when God’s children will flock to this mountain in worship of the Lord (vs. 2). This day has not happened yet, but will occur when Jesus returns the second time.
This world is desperately seeking peace. Politicians promise to work for peace. Religious leaders preach about peace. Organizations are founded to try and bring peaceful relations between people and nations. Counselors and therapists try and work for peace between individuals and within oneself. So many people desiring peace, and yet this world does not see it happening. So many nations have a giant arsenal of weapons stored up, ready to use at a moments notice. People are so ready to clobber each other at the slightest hint of a supposed insult.
Yet here we read from the prophet Isaiah of a day coming when there will be peace between nations and individuals (vs. 4). We all want this to happen. When will this day occur? The day that Isaiah prophesies about will happen when the Lord Jesus returns. There will be wars until the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6) returns to earth to put an end to them. When Jesus reigns, peace will come to the earth. The instruments of war will be turned into instruments of farming. Instead of killing, they will be turned into something that will bring life and nourishment.
When Jesus, the Messiah, reigns from His throne, which will be established in Jerusalem, the world will enjoy peace. At this time Jerusalem, which has been the sight of so much conflict and bloodshed for numerous centuries, will be exalted, as Jesus will reign from there. In Jesus’ messianic kingdom, all people will recognize Jerusalem as the capital of the world (vs. 2-3).
In addition to peace between nations, there will also be peace between individual people (vs. 3). People will come together and desire to learn about God and worship Him in truth together. We will be taught God’s laws, and all will obey them.
Isn’t this a day that we eagerly look forward to? In addition to looking forward to Christmas, Advent points us to look forward to Jesus’ return. Though world peace won’t happen until He returns, we, as His children, can live in that way with each other. When we follow and obey the Lord’s Word, we will walk in His light (vs. 5). Without God, we can only grope in the darkness.
Friday, November 29, 2019
Never Too Late, Never Too Wicked
Luke 23:35-43
Is anyone too bad or sinful to be saved? Is it ever too late to get saved? These are questions that many people ask at one time or another. As Scripture teaches, the answer to both questions is a resounding NO! In our passage today from the Gospels, Luke gives an account that shows that no one is too wicked that the Blood of Jesus cannot cover their sins, and that it is never too late to turn to Jesus, either.
As our Scripture reading begins, Jesus has been crucified, and many of the onlookers were mocking and scorning Him (vs. 35-37). When men were crucified, often the reason for their execution was written on a placard and hung on the cross. This was done for Jesus, as well, and Pilate had “This is the King of the Jews” written (vs. 38). This sign was meant to be sarcastic. Here was someone the Jews had rejected and cruelly executed, and the sign calls Him their king!? Yet in a few short moments He would be coming into His Kingdom. He is the King of the Jews, the Gentiles, and the universe.
Not only did the crowds gathered around the cross hurl mocking insults at Jesus, but initially both criminals crucified with Him reviled Him, just like the religious leaders and others did (Mark 15:32). However, as some time passed, one of the criminals began to have a change of heart. He observed Jesus hanging there, praying for those who were putting Him to death, for those who rejected and mocked Him. That was certainly not the usual response for people who were executed! Perhaps this man had at an earlier time heard a bit about Jesus, maybe even heard Him teach. This criminal looked at Jesus and looked at himself. His conscience convicted him, and he repented.
As he spoke to the other criminal, he admitted that they both had done things that deserved the punishment they received, but Jesus had done nothing wrong (vs. 40-41). The man then turned to Jesus and asked that He would remember him when He comes into His kingdom. The criminal knew that Jesus was not a mere man, but was divine, and would reign as King forever. He must have believed that Jesus held the power of life and death, and that the inevitable death that was upon them in a matter of moments would be temporary, and Jesus would come to His kingdom.
What was Jesus’ response to this condemned criminal? Did He say that it was too late? Did He say that the man was too wicked? No! Jesus promised this dying criminal that he would be with Him in heaven (vs. 43). This man did not have a chance to do any good works. He could not go and get baptized, or give a lot of money to the church or charities. He couldn’t start treating his family right, volunteer at a homeless shelter, work with the boy scouts, or teach Sunday School. There was no opportunity for any good works. He was literally moments from death. Yet Jesus did not tell him, “Sorry, too late for you, buddy!” Even in His own misery and agony, Jesus had mercy and love for others, and He forgave and accepted this man.
This dying thief had more faith than most all of the disciples did at that moment. All of them, except John, had fled and gone into hiding. Their hopes of Jesus’ kingdom were shattered. This man, as he was dying, and knowing the crucified Jesus would also die soon, acknowledged that Jesus would come to His kingdom. At that moment, it sure didn’t look like there would be a kingdom. Yet he believed, and that belief, not any good deeds, saved him.
This man pleaded with Jesus for mercy. He knew he had no hope but divine grace, and that the dispersing of that grace lay in Jesus’ power. Did the criminal deserve to be forgiven? No. None of us do. God’s grace saves us, not our merit. Jesus turned to him and affirmed that man’s salvation.
Our deeds do not save us, as that man’s life clearly showed. Our faith in Christ does. No one is too wicked that the Blood of Jesus cannot avail for him. Also, it is never too late to accept Jesus as Savior. As long as there is breath, one can be saved.
Is anyone too bad or sinful to be saved? Is it ever too late to get saved? These are questions that many people ask at one time or another. As Scripture teaches, the answer to both questions is a resounding NO! In our passage today from the Gospels, Luke gives an account that shows that no one is too wicked that the Blood of Jesus cannot cover their sins, and that it is never too late to turn to Jesus, either.
As our Scripture reading begins, Jesus has been crucified, and many of the onlookers were mocking and scorning Him (vs. 35-37). When men were crucified, often the reason for their execution was written on a placard and hung on the cross. This was done for Jesus, as well, and Pilate had “This is the King of the Jews” written (vs. 38). This sign was meant to be sarcastic. Here was someone the Jews had rejected and cruelly executed, and the sign calls Him their king!? Yet in a few short moments He would be coming into His Kingdom. He is the King of the Jews, the Gentiles, and the universe.
Not only did the crowds gathered around the cross hurl mocking insults at Jesus, but initially both criminals crucified with Him reviled Him, just like the religious leaders and others did (Mark 15:32). However, as some time passed, one of the criminals began to have a change of heart. He observed Jesus hanging there, praying for those who were putting Him to death, for those who rejected and mocked Him. That was certainly not the usual response for people who were executed! Perhaps this man had at an earlier time heard a bit about Jesus, maybe even heard Him teach. This criminal looked at Jesus and looked at himself. His conscience convicted him, and he repented.
As he spoke to the other criminal, he admitted that they both had done things that deserved the punishment they received, but Jesus had done nothing wrong (vs. 40-41). The man then turned to Jesus and asked that He would remember him when He comes into His kingdom. The criminal knew that Jesus was not a mere man, but was divine, and would reign as King forever. He must have believed that Jesus held the power of life and death, and that the inevitable death that was upon them in a matter of moments would be temporary, and Jesus would come to His kingdom.
What was Jesus’ response to this condemned criminal? Did He say that it was too late? Did He say that the man was too wicked? No! Jesus promised this dying criminal that he would be with Him in heaven (vs. 43). This man did not have a chance to do any good works. He could not go and get baptized, or give a lot of money to the church or charities. He couldn’t start treating his family right, volunteer at a homeless shelter, work with the boy scouts, or teach Sunday School. There was no opportunity for any good works. He was literally moments from death. Yet Jesus did not tell him, “Sorry, too late for you, buddy!” Even in His own misery and agony, Jesus had mercy and love for others, and He forgave and accepted this man.
This dying thief had more faith than most all of the disciples did at that moment. All of them, except John, had fled and gone into hiding. Their hopes of Jesus’ kingdom were shattered. This man, as he was dying, and knowing the crucified Jesus would also die soon, acknowledged that Jesus would come to His kingdom. At that moment, it sure didn’t look like there would be a kingdom. Yet he believed, and that belief, not any good deeds, saved him.
This man pleaded with Jesus for mercy. He knew he had no hope but divine grace, and that the dispersing of that grace lay in Jesus’ power. Did the criminal deserve to be forgiven? No. None of us do. God’s grace saves us, not our merit. Jesus turned to him and affirmed that man’s salvation.
Our deeds do not save us, as that man’s life clearly showed. Our faith in Christ does. No one is too wicked that the Blood of Jesus cannot avail for him. Also, it is never too late to accept Jesus as Savior. As long as there is breath, one can be saved.
Wednesday, November 27, 2019
From Darkness To Light
Colossians 1:12-20
One theme of historical legends is that of some people who were taken captive by an enemy king, and then some knights coming in to rescue them from the enemy kingdom, bringing them home to their own kingdom. That is a similar scenario to one of the two major points that Paul brings up in our passage today from his letter to the Colossian Christians.
Ever since Eve took the first bite from the forbidden fruit, mankind has been held captive by Satan. Satan’s kingdom is not a place one would want to be in. From the outside it might look nice and pleasant, but once inside the walls of that kingdom, we find it is one of darkness, deception, and wickedness. We were held captives, just like prisoners taken captive by an evil medieval king. However, God did not want to leave mankind in that condition. We have been rescued by God from Satan’s kingdom (vs. 13-14). Jesus defeated Satan through His death on the cross and resurrection from the dead. We are redeemed from Satan’s kingdom through the Blood Jesus shed upon the cross. For those who accept Jesus’ gift of salvation, they are redeemed, ransomed from slavery to sin, and brought out of Satan’s kingdom of darkness into God’s glorious kingdom of light.
Through the Blood of Jesus we have been transferred from darkness to light, from slavery to freedom, from guilt to forgiveness, from the power of Satan to the power of God, and from a rebel kingdom to serve a righteous God. For those who choose to accept the rescue provided by Jesus, He brings us into God’s kingdom, making us His children. Jesus then makes us qualified to share in His inheritance (vs. 12), and brings us forgiveness of our sins.
The second topic that Paul addresses in our passage is that of the deity of Jesus Christ (vs. 15-18). The Colossian church was being threatened by a spreading heresy that denied the deity of Jesus. We see that a lot today, as well. There are cults that say that Jesus was not God, as other religions also teach. Many people today say that Jesus was “a good man”, maybe even admitting that He was a “prophet” or some other “religious teacher”. That is not what God’s Word, the Bible, teaches. It says here that Jesus is God. He is the image of the invisible God, God’s perfect image and very form. Jesus came from heaven, not from the dust of the earth (I Corinthians 15:47).
Jesus is supreme over all creation. He is eternal, having existed before anything else. When the universe began, Christ already existed, and He is exalted over it. Jesus not only created the world, He sustains it (vs. 17). Everything is held together and protected by Him. Jesus prevents creation from disintegrating into chaos, maintaining the power and balance necessary to life’s existence and continuity. Jesus ranks over all creation because He is the Creator. The fullness of deity was not spread out among created beings, like the Colossian heresy taught, but completely dwells in Christ alone (vs. 19).
Paul uses the human body as a metaphor for the Church (vs. 18). Jesus is the head, controlling everything. The Church has its origin in Jesus. He gave His life for it. Jesus was the first to be resurrected, never to die again.
Before we were saved we were alienated from God, rebellious, enemies, completely separated. When we accept Jesus as Savior, His death brings a reconciliation (vs. 20). Man is reconciled to God when Jesus restores a right relationship between us and God, and those who believe are no longer at enmity with our Creator. If you haven’ t already, accept Jesus as your Savior now, to be reconciled with the Lord and become a joint heir with Jesus.
One theme of historical legends is that of some people who were taken captive by an enemy king, and then some knights coming in to rescue them from the enemy kingdom, bringing them home to their own kingdom. That is a similar scenario to one of the two major points that Paul brings up in our passage today from his letter to the Colossian Christians.
Ever since Eve took the first bite from the forbidden fruit, mankind has been held captive by Satan. Satan’s kingdom is not a place one would want to be in. From the outside it might look nice and pleasant, but once inside the walls of that kingdom, we find it is one of darkness, deception, and wickedness. We were held captives, just like prisoners taken captive by an evil medieval king. However, God did not want to leave mankind in that condition. We have been rescued by God from Satan’s kingdom (vs. 13-14). Jesus defeated Satan through His death on the cross and resurrection from the dead. We are redeemed from Satan’s kingdom through the Blood Jesus shed upon the cross. For those who accept Jesus’ gift of salvation, they are redeemed, ransomed from slavery to sin, and brought out of Satan’s kingdom of darkness into God’s glorious kingdom of light.
Through the Blood of Jesus we have been transferred from darkness to light, from slavery to freedom, from guilt to forgiveness, from the power of Satan to the power of God, and from a rebel kingdom to serve a righteous God. For those who choose to accept the rescue provided by Jesus, He brings us into God’s kingdom, making us His children. Jesus then makes us qualified to share in His inheritance (vs. 12), and brings us forgiveness of our sins.
The second topic that Paul addresses in our passage is that of the deity of Jesus Christ (vs. 15-18). The Colossian church was being threatened by a spreading heresy that denied the deity of Jesus. We see that a lot today, as well. There are cults that say that Jesus was not God, as other religions also teach. Many people today say that Jesus was “a good man”, maybe even admitting that He was a “prophet” or some other “religious teacher”. That is not what God’s Word, the Bible, teaches. It says here that Jesus is God. He is the image of the invisible God, God’s perfect image and very form. Jesus came from heaven, not from the dust of the earth (I Corinthians 15:47).
Jesus is supreme over all creation. He is eternal, having existed before anything else. When the universe began, Christ already existed, and He is exalted over it. Jesus not only created the world, He sustains it (vs. 17). Everything is held together and protected by Him. Jesus prevents creation from disintegrating into chaos, maintaining the power and balance necessary to life’s existence and continuity. Jesus ranks over all creation because He is the Creator. The fullness of deity was not spread out among created beings, like the Colossian heresy taught, but completely dwells in Christ alone (vs. 19).
Paul uses the human body as a metaphor for the Church (vs. 18). Jesus is the head, controlling everything. The Church has its origin in Jesus. He gave His life for it. Jesus was the first to be resurrected, never to die again.
Before we were saved we were alienated from God, rebellious, enemies, completely separated. When we accept Jesus as Savior, His death brings a reconciliation (vs. 20). Man is reconciled to God when Jesus restores a right relationship between us and God, and those who believe are no longer at enmity with our Creator. If you haven’ t already, accept Jesus as your Savior now, to be reconciled with the Lord and become a joint heir with Jesus.
Monday, November 25, 2019
Jerusalem
Psalm 48
Go in to any library and you will be able to find in the nonfiction area books on famous or important big cities. Online tourist sites abound with tours of the famous and historic cities of Europe, the U.S., or East Asia. Many people, myself included, keep a mental list of cities they would love to visit if they had the time and money to do so. Our psalm today tells of a city that was beloved by the psalmist, and he believes, by God as well That city was Jerusalem.
In Old Testament times, Jerusalem was the city seen as where God had set His earthly presence in the world (vs. 2). Jerusalem was where King David set up his capital, and it was there that God set the site for the Temple. Jesus visited and taught in Jerusalem on several occasions during His earthly ministry, and it was right outside the city walls where He shed His Blood in sacrifice for the sins of the world. Believers will gather in the last days in Jerusalem (Isaiah 2:2). It will be the spiritual home of all believers, where God will live among them (Revelation 21:2-3).
Throughout the psalm we read of “Zion” and also “Mount Zion”. Zion is another name that Jerusalem has often been called. Mount Zion is one of several hills in the city, and sometimes referred to the whole city. Though the psalmist’s love for Jerusalem is evident, he was not calling upon the people to praise the city itself. Rather, he was calling upon them to praise God, who had selected Jerusalem to be His city, and where His Temple was located.
Reading through this psalm we see in verse 8 where it says that God will establish His city, Jerusalem, forever. This is not referring to earthly Jerusalem, but instead to the New Jerusalem, which we read of in the Book of Revelation, where God will live with all believers. As we know through history, the city of Jerusalem has been destroyed several times. When Jesus returns, and sets up His earthly capital, He will rebuild a New Jerusalem, which will be established forever. In verses 4-7, we see how enemies had come to destroy Jerusalem and the God of Mt. Zion. However the God of Zion is powerful, and He always destroys those who fight against Him.
The psalmist speaks in verses 12 - 13 of the people going around the city, giving what would seem to be an inspection of the buildings and walls. After a battle, an ancient city would go around and inspect the city’s walls and defenses. After a spiritual battle we need to inspect our spiritual defenses, as well. Is our foundation sure? How about our faith in God, knowledge of His Word, and prayer? As believers, we need to praise God for His protection of us, no matter where we are.
As our psalm closes, we read where the psalmist is thankful that God is His guide (vs. 14). When traveling, we use maps of different types, and sometimes also use a guide. Maps give us landmarks and directions, and a guide is a companion with intimate knowledge of where we are going. God has given us both a map and a guide for our life. The Bible is the map, as it shows us where to go, with landmarks and directions. The Holy Spirit is our companion and guide. We need to make sure we use both map and guide throughout our life.
God’s presence is our joy, security and salvation. He is our defender and guide, even to death. Even if everyone else abandons us in life, Jesus will remain with us to the end (Matthew 28:20).
Go in to any library and you will be able to find in the nonfiction area books on famous or important big cities. Online tourist sites abound with tours of the famous and historic cities of Europe, the U.S., or East Asia. Many people, myself included, keep a mental list of cities they would love to visit if they had the time and money to do so. Our psalm today tells of a city that was beloved by the psalmist, and he believes, by God as well That city was Jerusalem.
In Old Testament times, Jerusalem was the city seen as where God had set His earthly presence in the world (vs. 2). Jerusalem was where King David set up his capital, and it was there that God set the site for the Temple. Jesus visited and taught in Jerusalem on several occasions during His earthly ministry, and it was right outside the city walls where He shed His Blood in sacrifice for the sins of the world. Believers will gather in the last days in Jerusalem (Isaiah 2:2). It will be the spiritual home of all believers, where God will live among them (Revelation 21:2-3).
Throughout the psalm we read of “Zion” and also “Mount Zion”. Zion is another name that Jerusalem has often been called. Mount Zion is one of several hills in the city, and sometimes referred to the whole city. Though the psalmist’s love for Jerusalem is evident, he was not calling upon the people to praise the city itself. Rather, he was calling upon them to praise God, who had selected Jerusalem to be His city, and where His Temple was located.
Reading through this psalm we see in verse 8 where it says that God will establish His city, Jerusalem, forever. This is not referring to earthly Jerusalem, but instead to the New Jerusalem, which we read of in the Book of Revelation, where God will live with all believers. As we know through history, the city of Jerusalem has been destroyed several times. When Jesus returns, and sets up His earthly capital, He will rebuild a New Jerusalem, which will be established forever. In verses 4-7, we see how enemies had come to destroy Jerusalem and the God of Mt. Zion. However the God of Zion is powerful, and He always destroys those who fight against Him.
The psalmist speaks in verses 12 - 13 of the people going around the city, giving what would seem to be an inspection of the buildings and walls. After a battle, an ancient city would go around and inspect the city’s walls and defenses. After a spiritual battle we need to inspect our spiritual defenses, as well. Is our foundation sure? How about our faith in God, knowledge of His Word, and prayer? As believers, we need to praise God for His protection of us, no matter where we are.
As our psalm closes, we read where the psalmist is thankful that God is His guide (vs. 14). When traveling, we use maps of different types, and sometimes also use a guide. Maps give us landmarks and directions, and a guide is a companion with intimate knowledge of where we are going. God has given us both a map and a guide for our life. The Bible is the map, as it shows us where to go, with landmarks and directions. The Holy Spirit is our companion and guide. We need to make sure we use both map and guide throughout our life.
God’s presence is our joy, security and salvation. He is our defender and guide, even to death. Even if everyone else abandons us in life, Jesus will remain with us to the end (Matthew 28:20).
Saturday, November 23, 2019
Good And Bad Shepherds
Jeremiah 23:1-6
When we send our children to school, we expect that our children will be taught true and honest lessons. We expect that the information imparted to their eager minds is correct and accurate. No one would want their child taught that the world is flat, or that the sun rises in the west and sets in the east. Also, when we leave our children with a babysitter, we want to make sure that the sitter we pick is someone who will watch over them, taking good care of them, not someone who will ignore the child, and instead is watching TV or the internet. God is the same way about His children. This week’s Old Testament Scripture selection is from the prophet Jeremiah, and he brought a message from God about those who were tasked with watching over and teaching God’s children.
As our passage begins, the Lord, speaking through His prophet Jeremiah, is angry with the shepherds who are not properly and attentively watching over His sheep (vs. 1-2). The shepherds here were false religious leaders and teachers. They had failed in their duty to lead and teach the people God’s truth. When a shepherd is put in charge of a flock of sheep, he is to lead them to fields that have good, fresh grass, and streams with clean, cool water. They are also to watch over and protect the sheep from predatory animals and any other dangers, including keeping the sheep from straying. These shepherds had failed miserably in their duty. They were not instructing the people in the Word of God, which led to many of the people turning to false, pagan gods in worship.
This is not just a problem in Old Testament times. The Church has pastors, Bible teachers, evangelists, and other leaders who are also like shepherds. They have a responsibility to lead and teach their flock. There are many shepherds who are faithful and true to the Good Shepherd, teaching their flocks the Word of God in truth. However, there are some who are just like their Old Testament counterparts, who are not true to the Scriptures. They are not leading the flocks to good pasture, but instead are allowing them to graze in fields of false religious and philosophical beliefs. They are not protecting them from the wolves sent from Satan. God warned the Old Testament shepherds, and these today, as well, that He will attend to them for the evil of their doing (vs. 2). There will be harsh judgment on religious leaders who lead God’s flock astray. They are held responsible for those He has entrusted to their care.
As our passage continues, God has promised that He would send true shepherds. He would send shepherds who will teach the people the Word of God in truth (vs 4). This has found ultimate fulfillment in Jesus, the Messiah, who is our Good Shepherd. Christian pastors and teachers today are under-shepherds, under the leadership of Jesus, the Good Shepherd. They are instructed to feed the flock from God’s Word, and keep them from any fear from attacks of the enemy. God’s flock should not be lacking from any spiritual nourishment.
As the prophet Jeremiah continues his message from the Lord God, he brings a prophecy of the coming Messiah (vs. 5-6). The Messiah is pictured here as a branch or shoot from David’s family tree. David’s family tree was large and extensive, one line of which contained the kings of Judah. Each of us has a family tree, usually containing both some good and some not so good members. Though there were some kingly descendants of David’s that lead the people astray, God had promised that the Savior of mankind would come from David’s line. Here that promise is stated again. Jesus would be a branch from David’s family tree, a branch of righteousness.
All mankind are sinners. We have no way of pleasing a holy and righteous God on our own. Jesus came and lived a sinless life, and took our sins upon Himself, paying with His Blood upon the cross our sin penalty. All we need to do is to call upon the Lord Jesus as our Savior, taking and claiming for our own His payment for our sins and His forgiveness. He took our penalty, we take His righteousness. He is Yahweh Tsidkenu - the Lord our Righteousness.
When we send our children to school, we expect that our children will be taught true and honest lessons. We expect that the information imparted to their eager minds is correct and accurate. No one would want their child taught that the world is flat, or that the sun rises in the west and sets in the east. Also, when we leave our children with a babysitter, we want to make sure that the sitter we pick is someone who will watch over them, taking good care of them, not someone who will ignore the child, and instead is watching TV or the internet. God is the same way about His children. This week’s Old Testament Scripture selection is from the prophet Jeremiah, and he brought a message from God about those who were tasked with watching over and teaching God’s children.
As our passage begins, the Lord, speaking through His prophet Jeremiah, is angry with the shepherds who are not properly and attentively watching over His sheep (vs. 1-2). The shepherds here were false religious leaders and teachers. They had failed in their duty to lead and teach the people God’s truth. When a shepherd is put in charge of a flock of sheep, he is to lead them to fields that have good, fresh grass, and streams with clean, cool water. They are also to watch over and protect the sheep from predatory animals and any other dangers, including keeping the sheep from straying. These shepherds had failed miserably in their duty. They were not instructing the people in the Word of God, which led to many of the people turning to false, pagan gods in worship.
This is not just a problem in Old Testament times. The Church has pastors, Bible teachers, evangelists, and other leaders who are also like shepherds. They have a responsibility to lead and teach their flock. There are many shepherds who are faithful and true to the Good Shepherd, teaching their flocks the Word of God in truth. However, there are some who are just like their Old Testament counterparts, who are not true to the Scriptures. They are not leading the flocks to good pasture, but instead are allowing them to graze in fields of false religious and philosophical beliefs. They are not protecting them from the wolves sent from Satan. God warned the Old Testament shepherds, and these today, as well, that He will attend to them for the evil of their doing (vs. 2). There will be harsh judgment on religious leaders who lead God’s flock astray. They are held responsible for those He has entrusted to their care.
As our passage continues, God has promised that He would send true shepherds. He would send shepherds who will teach the people the Word of God in truth (vs 4). This has found ultimate fulfillment in Jesus, the Messiah, who is our Good Shepherd. Christian pastors and teachers today are under-shepherds, under the leadership of Jesus, the Good Shepherd. They are instructed to feed the flock from God’s Word, and keep them from any fear from attacks of the enemy. God’s flock should not be lacking from any spiritual nourishment.
As the prophet Jeremiah continues his message from the Lord God, he brings a prophecy of the coming Messiah (vs. 5-6). The Messiah is pictured here as a branch or shoot from David’s family tree. David’s family tree was large and extensive, one line of which contained the kings of Judah. Each of us has a family tree, usually containing both some good and some not so good members. Though there were some kingly descendants of David’s that lead the people astray, God had promised that the Savior of mankind would come from David’s line. Here that promise is stated again. Jesus would be a branch from David’s family tree, a branch of righteousness.
All mankind are sinners. We have no way of pleasing a holy and righteous God on our own. Jesus came and lived a sinless life, and took our sins upon Himself, paying with His Blood upon the cross our sin penalty. All we need to do is to call upon the Lord Jesus as our Savior, taking and claiming for our own His payment for our sins and His forgiveness. He took our penalty, we take His righteousness. He is Yahweh Tsidkenu - the Lord our Righteousness.
Friday, November 22, 2019
When Persecutions Come
Luke 21:5-19
Life is not easy, as we all can attest to. Little children often wish they were grown up, but once we get there, we see how difficult life is. Often it is filled with troubles and even persecutions. Christians are certainly no exception. The Church has faced persecution right from the start, and for true believers, the struggle has not stopped since then. Looking back over the centuries, we can see that the path of the true Church is in reality a trail of blood, the blood of martyrs. In our Scripture passage today we read how Jesus warned His disciples of what they would face in the days and years ahead.
As our passage opens, Jesus is in Jerusalem, just days away from His crucifixion. As He and His disciples are walking through the streets of the city, they draw near to the Temple, and they point out to Jesus what a magnificent building it is (vs. 5-6). This was not the original Temple building which Solomon had built centuries earlier. That one was destroyed by Nebuchadnezzar in 586 BC. A second Temple was constructed, being completed in 515 BC. This second Temple underwent a major renovation and expansion under King Herod the Great, beginning in 20 BC. It was this Temple, including renovations, that the disciples praised. Jesus then spoke a prophecy of the coming destruction of the Temple by the Romans, which occurred in 70 AD. Since that time, there has been no Temple in Jerusalem.
Jesus proceeds to warn the disciples of the persecutions and troubles that will come their way because of their faith in Him. The first thing He warns them of is that there will be false messiahs, those who pretend to preach the truth, but in reality their message is damnable heresy (vs. 8). These false messiahs have come and gone for centuries, and we still see some of them preaching their unbiblical message today. Jesus warns us not to be fooled by them or be led astray.
Jesus also warns us that there will be natural disasters and persecutions to come. However, through them all He will be with us, and will protect us. God will always remain in control. Every detail in our life is safe in His hands. Jesus wasn’t saying that Christians would be exempt from suffering. Believers and followers of Jesus will suffer persecution in this world, but not a hair on our head is touched without God’s permission (vs. 18). Even if we die for Jesus, it will be according to God’s purpose and timing. Our eternal life with Him is secure. Believers can never suffer spiritual or eternal loss. We are saved for eternity. We do not need to worry, but stand firm in our faith.
One persecution that some Christians face is the possibility of family members and assumed friends betraying them to the authorities during a time of severe governmental persecution (vs. 16). Even when they abandon us, the Holy Spirit will remain with us. He will comfort us, protect us, and give us the words we need when called upon to give an official defense to those in power (vs. 14-15). Knowing this should give us courage and hope to stand firm.
God can use persecutions to be opportunities to spread the Gospel message. Paul made use of his imprisonments to further spread the message of Jesus to the lost (Acts 9:15; Philippians 1:12). The Church has always grown and gotten stronger during times of persecution.
Conditions in this world do not seem to be improving any as time goes by. Things actually seem to be getting worse. In many parts of the world Christians are being actively persecuted, even killed. In other areas the persecution is more subtle. Jesus has warned us this would happen, but also gave us words of encouragement. He will be with us no matter what we go through.
Life is not easy, as we all can attest to. Little children often wish they were grown up, but once we get there, we see how difficult life is. Often it is filled with troubles and even persecutions. Christians are certainly no exception. The Church has faced persecution right from the start, and for true believers, the struggle has not stopped since then. Looking back over the centuries, we can see that the path of the true Church is in reality a trail of blood, the blood of martyrs. In our Scripture passage today we read how Jesus warned His disciples of what they would face in the days and years ahead.
As our passage opens, Jesus is in Jerusalem, just days away from His crucifixion. As He and His disciples are walking through the streets of the city, they draw near to the Temple, and they point out to Jesus what a magnificent building it is (vs. 5-6). This was not the original Temple building which Solomon had built centuries earlier. That one was destroyed by Nebuchadnezzar in 586 BC. A second Temple was constructed, being completed in 515 BC. This second Temple underwent a major renovation and expansion under King Herod the Great, beginning in 20 BC. It was this Temple, including renovations, that the disciples praised. Jesus then spoke a prophecy of the coming destruction of the Temple by the Romans, which occurred in 70 AD. Since that time, there has been no Temple in Jerusalem.
Jesus proceeds to warn the disciples of the persecutions and troubles that will come their way because of their faith in Him. The first thing He warns them of is that there will be false messiahs, those who pretend to preach the truth, but in reality their message is damnable heresy (vs. 8). These false messiahs have come and gone for centuries, and we still see some of them preaching their unbiblical message today. Jesus warns us not to be fooled by them or be led astray.
Jesus also warns us that there will be natural disasters and persecutions to come. However, through them all He will be with us, and will protect us. God will always remain in control. Every detail in our life is safe in His hands. Jesus wasn’t saying that Christians would be exempt from suffering. Believers and followers of Jesus will suffer persecution in this world, but not a hair on our head is touched without God’s permission (vs. 18). Even if we die for Jesus, it will be according to God’s purpose and timing. Our eternal life with Him is secure. Believers can never suffer spiritual or eternal loss. We are saved for eternity. We do not need to worry, but stand firm in our faith.
One persecution that some Christians face is the possibility of family members and assumed friends betraying them to the authorities during a time of severe governmental persecution (vs. 16). Even when they abandon us, the Holy Spirit will remain with us. He will comfort us, protect us, and give us the words we need when called upon to give an official defense to those in power (vs. 14-15). Knowing this should give us courage and hope to stand firm.
God can use persecutions to be opportunities to spread the Gospel message. Paul made use of his imprisonments to further spread the message of Jesus to the lost (Acts 9:15; Philippians 1:12). The Church has always grown and gotten stronger during times of persecution.
Conditions in this world do not seem to be improving any as time goes by. Things actually seem to be getting worse. In many parts of the world Christians are being actively persecuted, even killed. In other areas the persecution is more subtle. Jesus has warned us this would happen, but also gave us words of encouragement. He will be with us no matter what we go through.
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