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Thoughts on the Bible Readings September 8th (2 Kings 14; Ezekiel 4; 2 Corinthians 12, 13)

Thoughts on the Bible Readings September 8th (2 Kings 14; Ezekiel 4; 2 Corinthians 12, 13)2 Kings 14 records Amaziah's reign, which began with the punishment of those servants who had struck down and killed his father. Amaziah campaigns successfully against Edom. As a result of this he becomes lifted up in pride and seeks a quarrel with Israel. Amaziah is humbled in that battle, and many hostages are taken out of Judah to Samaria. Judah is placed under tribute. As we read the story carefully you will see that all the events provide the backdrop for our Lord Jesus Christ's parable about the Good Samaritan in Luke 10 verses 25-37. The chapter finishes by telling us of Israel's great decline under Jeroboam 2, until Yahweh helps Israel by raising up the prophet Jonah. Ezekiel 4 provides a portrayal of the extremities to which Judah is brought by the siege of Jerusalem. Ezekiel is caused to lay on his right side for 390 days for the house of Israel and 40 days for the house of Judah verses  430 days, from Jeroboam's defection until the captivity. This demonstrates also the day for a year principle. The prophet is symbolically the one who would bear the iniquities of the two nations - Israel and Judah. In this he typified the Lord Jesus Christ, the Son of Man. During this parable, which occupies about 14 months for its completion, he ate lentil bread by weight indicating the shortage of food. He also drank measured amounts of water daily. Ezekiel was indicating to his nation the scarcity of provisions that would occur in the Babylonian siege. In 2 Corinthians 12 we are told about visions that the Apostle Paul had 14 years before the writing of his letter. The "visions" were so real that Paul was unsure as to whether he was actually there, or it was just a dream-like revelation. The experience empowered him to deal with his severe trials, for which he earnestly beseeched God three times in prayer to remove. Each time he receives from the Father the same answer - "My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness". If only we could all learn that lesson. He speaks of his intent to see them; and this had twice been thwarted. What the Apostle's thorn in the flesh was we do not know. What we know is his eyesight was badly affected to the extent that Paul used a scribe to write his letters. His autograph at the end of each letter was in large handwritten characters verses  Galatians 6 verses 11. Additionally Paul had sent Titus as his representative as that brother closely knew the Apostle's mind on the matters the epistle discusses. Titus also had a great love for the Corinthians. Chapter 13 concludes with final warnings and advice. The Apostle had attempted visiting the Corinthian ecclesia twice, but his plans had been thwarted. Verses 5-10 is a call for all of the believers in this city to reconsider their motives and actions. And to change these, if required, so that they might find a place in the kingdom of our Lord Jesus Christ at his coming. Verses 11-14 give Paul's final greetings and his appeal for the members of the ecclesia to live in love and harmony.Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow at
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Thoughts on the Bible Readings September 6th (2 Kings 11, 12; Ezekiel 2; 2 Corinthians 8, 9)

In our two chapters from 2 Kings 11 and 12 we have the story of the faithful boy king, Joash, who came to the throne at the age of seven. We also have the elimination of the remnants of Ahab's household in Judah - that is of Athaliah, the daughter of Ahab and Jezebel. The treacherous Queen thought she had destroyed all the seed Royal in Judah. But the faithful high priest Jehoiadah, together with his remarkable and equally faithful covenant wife Jehosheba (Joash's aunt) hid and protected the heir to the throne in the temple of Yahweh). Upon the heir reaching 7 years of age the high priest set in train events that saw Athaliah's destruction, and the true monarchy restored. The remainder of the chapter records the covenant that Jehoiadah made with the people in concord with the king to remove Baal worship from Judah. Joash rules faithfully for forty years because of the faithful influence of his uncle on him. However, despite the removal of Baal worship, idolatry still persisted with many of Judah. Under Joash's influence he arranged for the temple to be repaired from funds voluntarily placed in a wooden box. The workers were paid from this, and accounting was not required due to their honesty. Joash bought time for the Kingdom of Judah from becoming subjects of Ben-Hadad and by paying tribute. The servants of Joash conspire against him and replace him with his son, Amaziah. In Ezekiel 2 we read of the prophet's commissioning as a priest. Ezekiel is called 'son of man' - a frequently used title of our Lord Jesus Christ. This title is emblematic of one, the Son of Man, our Lord Jesus Christ, whose mission would be so difficult, and so critically strategic to Yahweh's saving of the world from sin, that it necessitated that God be his Father in order for him to have the capability to successfully undertake the mission, without ensuring his success in any way, from his own love and complete trust and obedience of his Father. Ezekiel's mission was, as was Christ's, to a rebellious people who would refuse to listen. Ezekiel is told by the LORD that he will be savagely opposed by his people, but he is not to be afraid as the Almighty will be with him. In the test of time as Ezekiel's words from his Sovereign come to pass the nation will know that Yahweh's prophet will be vindicated in their midst. In 2 Corinthians 8 and 9 Paul encourages extreme generosity in giving support to the poor believers of Jerusalem. Paul had seen the need for this fund for some time and had arranged for the Gentile ecclesias to share their material wealth in the same way that God had blessed the Gentile believers in Christ in partaking of the Hope of Israel - the gospel that had been preached to Abraham and his seed. The Apostle says that generosity is of our Heavenly Father, who provides unstintingly for all of His children. Consider this, all we have is God's anyway; and not our own. When we give it is only what He has first given us. And if we feel we cannot give then think again. Our Heavenly Father is always able to recompense faithful service. But our greatest reason for giving is out of our gratefulness to Him for what He has given us in His Son. Chapter 9 verses 15 ESV read aloud - "Thanks be to God for His inexpressible gift!" Pause and Ponder. We too can show our gratitude to our Father by generously supporting through prayer and contributing of our abundance to our needy brothers.Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow at
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📖The Life Of Christ # 100 The Children of Abraham – A Study on Faith & Heritage by John Martin

A @Christadelphians Video: In this **63-minute Bible talk**, John Martin explores **"The Children of Abraham"**—revealing the depth of God’s covenant, the true meaning of spiritual lineage, and how faith defines our place in His promises. A must-watch for those studying **The Life of Christ** or seeking a deeper grasp of Scripture! 🔔 **Receive notifications** for new Bible studies by subscribing and clicking the bell! **📌 Full Chapter Timestamps** 00:00 - Introduction 04:18 - The Abrahamic Covenant: Genesis 12 10:35 - Physical vs. Spiritual Descendants 18:50 - Jesus’ Teaching on True Heritage (John 8) 26:15 - Faith vs. Works: Paul’s Explanation (Romans 4) 34:40 - The Law’s Role in God’s Plan (Galatians 3) 42:10 - Hebrews 11: Abraham’s Model of Faith 50:25 - Modern Believers & Abraham’s Legacy 57:30 - Practical Applications for Today 63:00 - Conclusion **
📜 Bible Verses Covered (with Emojis)**
 **Genesis 12:1-3** – God’s promise to Abraham
 **John 8:31-39** – Jesus on true descent
 **Romans 4:13-16** – Faith, not law, fulfills the promise
 **Galatians 3:7-9** – Believers as Abraham’s children
 **Hebrews 11:8-12** – Faith that pleases God **📂 Category** 🗝️ **Biblical Teaching**, ✞ **Christian Faith**, 📚 **Bible Study**, 🙏 **Spiritual Growth** **
🏷️ Tags** The Life of Christ, Children of Abraham, John Martin Bible Talk, Abrahamic Covenant, Faith and Salvation, Bible Study, New Testament Teaching, Spiritual Heritage, Christian Doctrine, Gospel Truth

https://christadelphianvideo.org/studyvideo/melbourne-prophecy-day-2025-2-studies-ron-cowie-graeme-shugg/

2 Kings 10 tells of the fear from the rulers of Ahab's household of retaliation of Jehu upon the eunuchs who brought up Ahab's sons in Jezreel. Jehu tricks the eunuchs to kill Ahab's 70 sons in order to save their own lives. Jehu now conceives a plan to Jehu follows this by telling Jehonadab of his zeal to fulfill the word of Yahweh. Jehu next slays 42 of Ahaziah's relatives, before carrying out his great ruse to eliminate Baal worship in Israel. All of Baal's worshippers who were beguiled into believing that Jehu intends to become the greatest of Baal's worshippers. These deluded worshippers of Baal come into his house and are slaughtered to the very last person by Jehu's appointed executioners. Jehu was promoted by God and promised to have a dynasty of four generations because of the service done that he did for the Almighty. However, Jehu himself did it not out of zeal for God but for himself. Sadly, Jehu perpetuated the calf worship of Jeroboam 1st of Israel - the man who made Israel to sin. Ezekiel is the priest of Yahweh and is introduced to us in chapter 1. His name means 'El establishes'. He was a prophet among the Babylonian exiles in Chebar who had been taken to Babylon approximately BC 606. The prophecy opens with the wonderful vision of the four living creatures, or cherubim, these creatures are symbols of Yahweh's vehicle for accomplishing His purpose. The presentation put before us in chapter 1 is a mathematical impossibility. But this is not so in the divine scheme of things. The theme of the cherubim permeates Scripture from Genesis 3 to the book of Revelation. The eyes of the four-faced living creatures portray Yahweh's Omniscience - symbolised in the eyes within the wheels. 2nd Corinthians 5 outlines the Almighty’s Word, or His campaign for the reconciliation of the world. The Lord Jesus Christ's life, death and resurrection are its foundation and form the logical and heart-binding basis for our attachment to the great salvation of God. We become in Christ part of God’s new creation. The Apostle Paul urges his readers to take up this ministry of reconciliation as Christ's ambassadors. In chapter 6 the great Apostle outlines his faithful commitment to the task of preaching the saving gospel message. Paul also establishes that this work is a call which embraces each believer in becoming a child of our Sovereign king. On our part we must embrace a complete commitment to holiness as God's beloved children. In the seventh chapter Paul entreats the Corinthians to find a place in their hearts for those whose love for them was unquestionable; and to embrace wholeheartedly the great task of receiving back into fellowship the repentant brother who had been disciplined by the ecclesia in the hope of restoring the erring brother to the company of fellow believers - the saints in our Lord Jesus Christ. Verses 13-16 speak of Paul's joy at receiving the news from Titus that the ecclesia at Corinth had followed the Apostle's advice and through ecclesial discipline achieved the result that Paul had hoped.Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow at  https://christadelphianvideo.org/christadelphian-daily-readings/

Thoughts on the Bible Readings September 4th (2 Kings 9; Lamentations 5; 2 Corinthians 3, 4)

2 Kings 9 is a bloodthirsty account of how YAHWEH executed judgment on the house of Ahab. One of the sons of the prophets is sent on a dangerous errand to anoint Jehu, as king of Israel. The prophet does this and flees. Jehu then conspires to slay both Joram and Ahaziah, as a partial fulfilment of Elisha's words - the task was to be finished with the slaughter of Ahab's offspring and Jezebel. One of the foremost lessons of the chapter is that peace is not possible when wickedness rules verses  Isaiah 57 verses 19-21. Jehu then speeds his chariot to Samaria to execute Jezebel - whose name means "she dwells not" i.e. with the LORD. The harlot attempts escape via seduction, but is summarily dealt with by her eunuchs. As she hits the ground Jehu tramples her under the hooves of his horses and leaves her to be buried later. By the time they come to bury her the dogs had eaten her and had their fill, leaving only her skull, palms and the soles of her feet. Even the dogs symbolically show their contempt of her walking, acting and thinking. Jezebel figures prominently in the symbolism of Revelation verses  see our Lord's comments in Revelation 2 verses 20-23. In Lamentations 5 verses 1-20 Jeremiah bemoans the nation's degraded state. Read the terrifying descriptions and see if you're able to envision the destruction brought by Babylon. However, the final two verses contain a plea for restoration. Verse 21 ensures that the final words of the book deal with hope, not from ourselves, coming from our gracious and ever-loving Sovereign. In 2 Corinthians 3 Paul tells of God's great work in him as an administrator of the new covenant in our Lord Jesus Christ. Unlike the Mosaic covenant that was written upon stone tablets, the new covenant is engraved on the fleshy tables of the heart. The mediator of the former covenant had to wear a veil over his face so that Israel would not perceive the transient nature of the glory which glowed every time he went in before the LORD and began fading soon after. But as believers we behold the open and glorious face of our Lord Jesus Christ and are being transformed from one level of glory to another. The transforming power of the Gospel is further developed in chapter 4. The message is unmistakable to those having ears to hear; but unintelligible to the hard hearted. The Almighty chose to reveal His power - of salvation to those who believe the gospel - though He reveals it in flawed human vessels. God does this so the transforming power is seen as His, and not from us verses  Romans 1 verses 16-17. The illustration Paul presents is based on the story of Gideon in Judges 7 verses 19-23. What a contrast exists between our transient light affliction and the great weight of glory reserved for believers for eternity in the kingdom of our Lord Jesus Christ. Read verses v17-18 aloud. Pause and Ponder.Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow at
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Thoughts on the Bible Readings September 3rd (2 Kings 8; Lamentations 4; 2 Corinthians 1, 2)

2 Kings 8 verses 1-6 tells us that the woman from Shunem whose son had been resurrected by Elisha had fallen into hard times during the seven-year famine that occurred. She had to move away from her home and lands. Gehazi, Elisha's former servant, points her out to the king who commands that her lands be restored to her. Verses 7-15 speak of Benhadad's sickness and subsequent murder by his general Hazael. Elijah had earlier told Elisha that he was to anoint Hazael to be king of Syria. Elisha has come to Damascus for that task. He is met by Hazael who has brought with him a gift from Benhadad and an enquiry as to whether the Syrian king would recover his health. Elisha is brought to tears when he met the hard and callous Hazael. Elisha's message that in the natural course of life Benhadad would recover. However, Yahweh has shown Elisha that Hazael will be a ruthless ruler that will commit unspeakable horrors against Israel - the pregnant women in particular. Hazael then returns to his monarch and suffocates him. Verses 16-24 tell of Judah's throne coming to the 32-year-old Jehoram, who proved to be a wicked king. Jehoram is described as being like the evil kings of Israel. One of the greatest influences on this man's life was his marriage to the evil daughter of king Ahab. His was a short reign of 8 years and his actions brought the kingdom of Judah to a low state. It was during his reign that Edom revolted and ceased to be a vassal of Judah. Jehoram is succeeded by his son Ahaziah - Judah's next king. Verses 25-29 speak of Ahaziah's rulership over Judah. The new king was 22 years old and reigned for a single year. This man was Ahab's grandson, and the record gives his relationship to Omri one of the wickedest men to have ever sat on Israel's throne. Verses. 26-27 make it clear how influential were his forbears on his life. Ahaziah joined Joram king of Israel in warring against the Syrians. The chapter finishes with Ahaziah's visit to his relative who was seriously wounded in the battle against the Syrians. Lamentations 4 verses 1-5 tell of the pitiful scenes that were seen in Judah after the wholesale and indiscriminate slaughter brought by the Babylonians. Verses 6-8 contrast these horrors with the former blessed conditions within the nation. Verses 9-10 state that it was the lucky ones who died by the sword and did not have to endure the famine which reduced the pitiful women to cannibalism. Verses 11-19 describe Yahweh's venting of His anger against His rebellious people. The surrounding nations were astounded at the report of the destruction brought to Judah. In verse 20 Jeremiah says that even though he knew that the coming judgments were just, they still terrified him when he saw what happened. The last two verses reveal Edom's elation at Zion's destruction. The lesson for us can be found in Romans 11 verses 22-23 - slowly read aloud and ponder the path we must take if we wish to receive the goodness of the LORD. 2 Corinthians is often called Paul's great letter of comfort. Chapter 1 tells us that one purpose of suffering is to develop in the sufferer a reservoir of compassion and comfort for others. The Apostle described his rock as the One who raised the dead (compare 1 Corinthians 15 verses 32 verses  that occasion was likely to have been in the amphitheatre at Ephesus - details as to whether he died and was in fact resurrected at Lystra can only be conjecture - although I personally believe that he died and was raised at that time verses  2 Timothy 3 verses 10-13 being the incident referenced). The coming of Timothy with the news he carried about the response of the believers at Corinth was a tonic that revived his spirit. Chapter 2 provided further advice for what to do next if the wrongdoer was to be fully recovered. The chapter tells us that in Troas he pondered his blessings in our Lord Jesus Christ. His imagery is drawn from the practices which accompanied the Roman Triumphal procession. The language that he uses to his fellow believers is ironic since their lifestyle spoke of living gloriously whereas the Apostles were treated as though they had been the conquered army many of whom were to be offered to the gods of the victors. Nonetheless in verses Paul says that God has strengthened him that the fragrant message of the gospel might replace the pungent odour of death that would otherwise fill the nostrils of the perishing.Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow at  https://christadelphianvideo.org/christadelphian-daily-readings/

Thoughts on the Bible Readings September 2nd (2 Kings 7; Lamentations 3; 1 Corinthians 16)

2 Kings 7 shows us, yet again, that when the Almighty says a thing will happen - it will, no matter how seemingly impossible. The incredulous and faithless lord on whose arm the king of Israel leans states that the famine could not be ended even if Yahweh was to open windows in heaven. The language echoes Elijah's era when the windows of heaven were both shut and opened - compare Revelation 11  verses  1-6; and Malachi 3  verses  10-12. Four lepers found food in the abandoned Syrian camp. This led to the fulfilment of the prophet Elisha's word, both to the abundance and price of the food and judgment on the unbelieving lord. Once more think of how the concept is taken up in Revelation 6 verses 5-6. Just as the Corinthian letters told us of Paul's life; so, does Jeremiah's lament of his feelings in this third chapter. The main lesson of the book is introduced in verse 1 verses  "I am the man that has seen sorrow". He is indeed "a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief" as our Lord Jesus Christ is so described in Isaiah 53 verses 3. However it is what this suffering servant learns through his trust in God as he in patience endures his horrendous experiences verses  Hebrews 5 verses 7-9. The prophet Jeremiah likewise similarly learns  verses  18-39 - carefully read these and ponder what is the message that the Almighty wants each of His suffering servants to learn and grow thereby. We are told of the benefits and purpose in suffering. We must believe though we may not understand. Our trust and faith in our Sovereign must remain unshakable as He is the One who is leading us to a place in His kingdom verses  Hebrews 12 verses 5-17 meditate the marvellous grace of our God. How great is Yahweh's steadfast love (Chesed - His faithfulness)! Each sunrise reminds us. In affliction we suffer in silence - trusting that He will deliver us at the proper time. Experience through testing takes time to yield results. 1 Corinthians 16 tells us to be prepared for contributing money when we come to the Lord's Supper. The background to the starting of the collections among the Gentiles was to support their Jewish brethren who were suffering hardship due to their persecution for becoming believers in Christ Jesus and to alleviate the troubles brought by the great famine. The first day of the week was traditionally the day when the believers met to remember our Lord Jesus Christ in bread and wine. By the Jewish calendar it was after 6pm Saturday evening. Those believers who were blessed to have some money gave some of it at that time. It was done discretely that is why Paul requested preparation before they arrived at the gathering. In his final instructions the Apostle sends greetings and commends the house of Stephanos for their addiction to service of fellow believers. The letter ends with both a warning and an implied appeal,  verses  22-24, "If anyone has no love for the Lord, let him be accursed. Our Lord come! The grace of the Lord Jesus be with you. My love be with you all in Christ Jesus. Amen." (ESV) Contemplate our privileges in Christ - the blessings that we receive - and how we can love our Lord and live to please him now that we might graciously find a place in his kingdom.Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow at  https://christadelphianvideo.org/christadelphian-daily-readings/

Thoughts on the Bible Readings September 1st (2 Kings 6; Lamentations 2; 1 Corinthians 15)

The story in 2 Kings 6 contains small yet monumental events. The swimming axe head appears so inconsequential and insignificant, causing us to ask  verses  'Why is it recorded?'. Because it demonstrates our God's care for the small, as well as the great. Next follows the tale of Elisha's being surrounded and protected by the Almighty's fiery chariots - the new prophet now carried Elijah's mantle, both literally and figuratively. He was now His Sovereign's vehicle. To the prophet's servant he asks the LORD to open the servant's eyes as Elisha says to him  verses  "they that be with us are more than those who are with them". Elisha teaches Israel's faithless king and the Syrian king of God's invincibility. The prophet demonstrated the mercy of his God. Finally, in Ben-Hadad's siege of Samaria we see the extremities to which the city is brought. Yahweh protects Elisha from the murderous intentions of the wicked king to teach Israel and all of the Almighty's servants to depend on their God. Lamentations 2 tells us of the untold sorrows that come of Jerusalem, the land of Judah and our Sovereign's people. Read the horrific depiction and desolation of the LORD's people. This devastation was brought by a vengeful enemy - Babylon. But of a truth the Babylonians were in fact the agents of punishment from the LORD Himself. The lesson is explained in Romans 11   verses  22-23. It is our choice as to which facet of God we want to face - goodness (mercy); or severity (retribution for our wrongs). Slowly and carefully read these   verses  aloud and ponder the path that you will choose to walk. In 1 Corinthians 15 the Apostle outlines the incontrovertible proofs of Christ's resurrection before hundreds of eyewitnesses, in many locations and over a prolonged period - 40 days  verses  Acts 1  verses 1-3. It could not be said that Christ was not resurrected. And thank God for that, since apart from that event our sins could not be forgiven -   verses  12-19. Our Lord Jesus Christ Lord rose 3 days after his crucifixion and was the first fruits of the resurrection - his faithful disciples will join him when they are raised at his coming -   verses  21-23. The process of perfecting the faithful in Christ's 1,000-year rule is described in verses  24-28, by God sending His Son to the earth to set up the long-promised kingdom. A 1,000 years later will complete this stage of the Almighty's purpose with the earth. That purpose is spoken of in Numbers 14, verses 20-21; Psalm 72, verses 1-20 - read and consider; Habakkuk 2, verses 14, 20; Revelation chapters 20-22. At this time the Lord Jesus Christ will hand over the perfect earth to his Father, who as Supreme Creator will be all and in all. How impossible are trinitarian notions when we are told that our Lord will acknowledge his subservient position to His Father, God. A short discourse follows on the need for each of us sin sin-prone beings to be baptised, that we may be raised to eternal life. A treatise on the differences between our natural bodies and those raised and bestowed upon with the life from heaven comes next. Paul tells of the superiority of Christ over Adam, who in many ways was a parable of the Son of Man - the Christ. What a time that will soon come and how we yearn for it (read of it in Isaiah 25, verses 6-9; and Hosea 13, verses 14, as cited by the Apostle). Finally, read aloud and meditate on   verses  57-58. Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow at  https  verses //christadelphianvideo.org/christadelphian-daily-readings/

Thoughts on the Bible Readings (2 Kings 5, Lamentations 1, 1 Corinthians 14) for Aug 31st.

We have a most instructive record in the 2nd of Kings 5. It is a case study in humility and baptism. Naaman was a general in the Syrian army and he had leprosy. The Israeli handmaid to his wife loved both Naaman and her mistress. This handmaid says that if her master was in Israel the prophet of God, ie Elisha would cure him. Naaman, obviously trusting in this advice, spoke to the king of Syria, who sends his general with gifts and a letter to the king of Israel. The letter asks for Naaman's cure. The faithless king interpreted the Syrian king's request as Syria seeking a quarrel between their nations. The king of Israel rants and sends Naaman from him. Elisha, on hearing this, tells the king of Israel to send Naaman to him for healing. As Naaman approaches Elisha sends a message to Naaman to dip in Jordan seven times and be cleansed. Naaman, feeling humiliated and reacting in pride refuses. The general's servants exhort him to humility, as the request is simple. Naaman humbles himself and immerses himself in the river seven times and is healed. Baptism is an act done in obedience, by responding in humility, and for healing. Naaman promises to serve Yahweh alone, but explains the difficulty he has in his role with the Syrian king. Elisha's servant, Gehazi, is overcome by his covetousness as a consequence becomes cursed with Naaman's leprosy.
Lamentations is one of the saddest books of the Bible. It was set to music as a dirge to imprint its memorable message on the minds of the people. It is an account of the prophet Jeremiah's lament at the death of righteous king Josiah; and also the destruction of the prophet's beloved Jerusalem. Some have asked: "Why is this book in the Bible?" It is there to instruct us and and admonish us in the ways of our God. Romans 15 verses 4-5 tells us that this is the purpose of all Scripture. It serves this purpose for all God's children, especially for our Lord Jesus Christ. Similarly Job instructs us in the same way: James 5 verses 7-11. The principal lesson would seem to be that in suffering there is learning and training in righteousness: Hebrews 12 verses 3-11. Consider how this applies even to our Lord Jesus Christ: Hebrews 5 verses 7-9. It is interesting that the first 12 verses are in the third person, while the rest of the chapter is in the first person. The structure of the book is of five chapters - the first two and last two each have 22 verses; chapter 3, the highest point of the book, having 3 x 22 (or 66 verses). Each successive triplet of three  verses, is the pattern for chapter 3 where each each group of three verses starts with the same letter of the Hebrew alphabet. The entire book follows the pattern of commencing each segment with each of the 22 letters of the Hebrew alphabet. This style is known as an acrostic style of writing. See how desolate the people and city were; and how despondent was the Jeremiah. The third chapter reflects that there always is hope in suffering. Additionally there is within the book a chiasmic structure (ABCBA) with chapter 5 reflecting chapter 1; and chapter 2 mirroring chapter 4. Chapter 5 according to Bullinger in "The Companion Bible" is partially acrostic. We can, through the book understand our Lord Jesus Christ - a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief. 
In the first of Corinthians 14 the Apostle Paul urged the pursuit of love, rather than seeking the showy and much abused spiritual gifts. Ordered worship among believers is essential. His conclusion  was  - let everything be done decently and in order. Having established in chapter 13 that love is the greatest gift of all the Apostle encourages a wholehearted pursuit of love in the beginning of this chapter. Paul continues to compare its benefits to the spirit gifts of the Apostolic age and says that the ability to instruct in the Word of God is far greater than speaking in tongues - Greek 'glossa' which speaks of languages according to Strong's Concordance - not unknown tongues. For instruction in the Word is an exercise of growing in holiness: Hebrews 12 verse 11; Ephesians 4 verses 11-16. In verses 6-12 Paul tells his readers that just as music has chords with a distinct resonance so too must God's Word have a clear and distinctive discernible message. The same is true of the clarion blast of the bugle that calls people to war. Verses 13-19 repeats the message that hearers must understand the prayers that are said. There is no benefit in a prayer of words that lack meaning for the hearers. So the Apostle requests that prayer be for the edifying of the hearers and not simply that the one who prays is ecstatic and feels uplifted. In verses 20-25 Paul cites the prophets to show that the Father says that this is His objective in enlightening men and women. Verses 26-33 give instructions for orderly worship in ecclesial gatherings. He says that when the prophet speaks it is useless unless the interpreter can give understanding to the gathering. He also speaks against competing with one another and that the members must wait until their turn comes rather than rudely interrupting and trying to talk over one another. The time for silence is appropriate and according to our Father's revealed Word. For that matter the Apostle declares that sisters remain silent in formal ecclesial gatherings. This truth is repeated in 1 Timothy 2 verses 11-15. Verses 36-39 tell us that such observance of the divine order is a reflection of spiritual mindedness as opposed to carnal self seeking.
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The Life of Christ #99: "Ye Are From Beneath, I Am From Above" – Revealing Study by John Martin

A @Christadelphians Video: ### **Video Description:** 📖 **Explore the wonderful and thought-provoking words of Jesus in John 8:23**, where He reveals the eternal distinction between His heavenly origin and humanity’s earthly nature. In this 64-minute Bible study, John Martin provides deep insights into Christ’s identity and how it transforms our faith. 🔔 **Receive notifications** for more Life of Christ studies by subscribing and enabling notifications! ### **📌 Chapters / Timestamps (Full 64-Minute Breakdown):** 00:00 - Introduction 03:18 - Reading & Context of John 8:23 08:45 - "Ye Are From Beneath" – The Human Condition 15:30 - "I Am From Above" – Jesus’ Divine Authority 22:10 - The Pharisees’ Rejection of Christ’s Testimony 30:25 - The Contrast Between Earthly & Heavenly Thinking 38:40 - How Jesus’ Origin Shapes His Teachings 45:15 - The Danger of a Worldly Perspective 52:50 - Applying Christ’s Truths to Modern Faith 59:20 - Q&A & Key Takeaways 63:40 - Conclusion ### **📜 Bible Verses Covered (Emoji-Categorized):** ✝️ **John 8:23** – "Ye are from beneath; I am from above..." ✝️ **John 3:31** – "He that cometh from above is above all..." ✝️ **1 Corinthians 2:14** – "The natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit..." ✝️ **Colossians 3:2** – "Set your affection on things above..." ✝️ **John 1:1-14** – The Word’s Divine Origin ### **📌 Tags:** Bible study, Life of Christ, John Martin, John 8 23, Jesus teachings, Christian doctrine, New Testament study, spiritual truth, faith and reason, Bible verses ### **🎯 Category:** Nonprofits & Activism | Religion & Spirituality 💬 **Discussion Question:** *How does Jesus’ declaration “I am from above” challenge or strengthen your understanding of His mission? Share below!*