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Thoughts on the Bible Readings for January 3rd (Genesis 5, 6; Psalms 6, 7, 8; Matthew 5)

In Genesis 5 we have another of the seven genealogies in the book of Genesis. Sometimes we rush through genealogies, or even avoid reading them believing them to be unimportant. But there isinformation in these chapters that is designed to teach the diligent seeker. Usher used Biblical genealogies to determine that the creative days of chapter 1 occurred about 4,004 years before the birth of Jesus Christ. Apart from noticing the length of the lives of those who were born before the flood, we find the phrase - "and he died" occurs again, and again. This reinforces the sentence of chapter 2verses17, "you shall surely die". The Hebrew phrase actually means, in dying you will die, i.e. the process of corruption will bring you to the inevitable end in your death. The chapter therefore powerfully teaches, "as in Adam all die" (1 Corinthians 15verses22). But the same verse in Corinthians teaches, "even so in Christ shall all be made alive". There is in Genesis 5 one man for whom the words, "and he died" are not written - that is Enoch, whose days of "walking with God" (said twice) resulted in his being taken from the scene of death (cp Hebrews 11verses5). Amos 3verses3 says, "Can two walk together unless they are agreed? “This means that God and Enoch walked together as one; as did Jesus and His Father (Genesis 22verses8). Jude tells us that Enoch was the seventh from Adam, and therefore, as the man of covenant, typical of the Lord Jesus Christ. The probable death Enoch escaped, by God taking him away to another location, was the intended murder of Enoch at the hands of Lamech. The chapter also tells of the man, who lived longer than any other -Methuselah (969 years); whose name contains a prophecy. His name means, "when he dies it shall be seen". In the year he died the flood came upon the earth, 1,656 years from the creation. Another significant name from Genesis 5 is Noah, whose name means "rest". The turmoil and trouble preceding the flood produced some rest in Noah's walking with God for the Almighty's mind, which had been disquieted by the evils described at the start of Genesis 6. The human imagination was continually fixed on evil. But Noah was a just i.e. upright and righteous man. Noah's life was not without sin; but his intent was on pleasing his Sovereign, by the way he walked. The story of Noah covers 4 chapters in Genesis (6- 9); and a time span of greater than 120 years. God's promise in verse 3 was to bring his judgments on the earth in 120 years’ time. Noah, himself, was at this time 480 years old and without children. 2 Peter 2 tells us that God was forbearing with bringing calamity to the wicked, as His intention is to save, rather than destroy. Hebrews 11verses7 says that Noah acted in faith in order to save the family that at that time he didn't have. Sons were born to Noah after his 500th year. The remainder of chapter 6 gives details of the building of this mighty vessel, whose size compared significantly with ocean liners of the twentieth century. It was made of durable gopher wood; and waterproofed with bitumen (pitch). The Hebrew word for pitch means "to cover", or "to atone for". It was a literal saving of those within; and a parable of the salvation in God's provided ark (the Lord Jesus Christ). Peter explains the parable in 1 Peter 3verses18-22. Baptism is anordinance of the Almighty to which those believing the LORD's word submit in order to be saved(see Acts 4verses12). In this way our sins are atoned for; they are covered; and they are washed away (Acts 22verses16).

Thoughts on the Bible Readings for January 2nd (Genesis 3, 4; Psalms 3, 4, 5; Matthew 3, 4)

In Genesis 3 we have the record of how sin first entered the world through the yielding to temptation by the first created humans - Adam and Eve. The Apostle Paul says also, that at this time death also first came to the Adamic creation as a result of sin - Romans 5verses12. Adam and Eve after their creation - Adam from the dust (Genesis 2verses7), and Eve from Adam's side during a God-induced sleep (2verses20-25) - the man unable to find a suitable partner from the lesser creation; and feeling first, lonely; then joyous with a compatible companion. Chapter 3 commences with an introduction to the snake, who at that era had great powers of observation; limited reasoning capacity; and the ability to talk. The snake suggested that Adam and Eve were being deceived and held back by the Elohim (God). And so, after seeing the fruit of the "tree of the knowledge of good and evil" was attractive (pleasant to the eyes); it was good, and an excellent quality (good for food); and its clinching appeal - "a tree to be desired to make one wise" (the pride of life. Paul tells us in Philippians 2 that Adam and Eve grasped for equality with God - which thing our Lord Jesus Christ never did when tempted. The Apostle John tells us in his first letter chapter 2verses15-17 that all temptation and sin fall in one or more of these categories. Having sinned they were expelled from the garden; James tells us in chapter 1 the process of sin within every human mind -verses 13-15. Having disobeyed God, He the Almighty must in justice enforce the law He had given. Adam and Eve now had the sentence of death activated within them - this is called "mortality". What was possible before transgressing was now "a law within them" (Romans 7verses21-25) - i.e. now an inevitability. The human race now found that from this point forward all descendants from the first human parents found that sin cannot be overcome in their lives every time that each of us is subjected to temptation -Romans 6 tells us that they were bond slaves to sin. It required God to produce a Saviour, His Son, who although bearing the bias to sin within himself; this being the entail of the effects of Adam and Eve's first sin, would himself be sinless - though Jesus was of our identical nature (Hebrews 2verses12-18.

Thoughts on the Bible Readings for January 1st (Genesis 1, 2; Psalms 1, 2; Matthew 1, 2)

Welcome to the start of a new year. When the Jewish people celebrate the Passover they say, "Next year in Jerusalem". May this year see the Messiah's second coming. The Old Testament is approximately twice the length of the New Testament; and, for that reason two portions of Scripture are taken from it daily. The plan we follow with the Bible readings comments is designed to complete the reading of the Old Testament once, and the New Testament twice, in the course of 12 months. We begin at the beginning, which is the meaning of "Genesis". It is not a scientific account of our origins - though it is 100% scientifically accurate as it is an infallible and inspired record from our Omnipotent Creator. At times some people are confused as to whether the Genesis account is literal - i.e. real - or a parable.Unquestionably the answer is it is both. Although it is not written to be a scientific textbook; it is 100% accurate scientifically and describes events that did happen. It tells us why we are here; and that God put us on earth for a purpose - "to fill the earth with His glory" (Numbers 14verses21; cp Genesis 1verses26). Genesis 1 describes 6 days of evening/morning duration. The Hebrew day begins at sundown and ends 24 hours later. Days 1-3 show a pattern - light; water; life - a pattern repeated in days 4-6. Chapter 2 tells us that God rested from His creative work on day 7 - the Sabbath. And in the Hebrew text for days 1-6 this pattern is followed - "there was a day, one ... two...right through to six". Genesis 1verses26 tells us that the Almighty's purpose was to fill the earth with people in whom the divine likeness - or character - would be seen cp also Psalm 8verses1-9. The Sabbath is the first day to have a name, which is emblematic of the Sabbath rest of the kingdom age (Hebrews 4verses8-11). Chapter 2 focuses more on the formation of Eve from Adam's side as the first marriage, which typifies Christ and his bride (the ecclesia - Ephesians 5verses22-33). Additional useful information is that the word translated as "creature" AV is consistently the Hebrew word 'nephesh' elsewhere translated throughout the Old Testament as "soul". Once the divine spirit in the form of breath is found within any creature it becomes nephesh chaim, or breath of life, which the LORD Good breathed into Adam in chapter 2verses7. Adam was a whole being and although like his animal counterparts of the dust he was brought to life directly by the Almighty breathing the spirit - or life-giving breath into him. This indicates the LORD God's intention to have a close relationship with His human creatures.

Thoughts on the Bible Readings December 31st (Job 41, 42; Malachi 3, 4; Revelation 21, 22)

If the example of pride presented in the hippopotamus repulsed us, far worse is Leviathan in chapter 41. He is the Nile crocodile, and is described as, "king over all the children of pride". Our Sovereign challenges Jobverses Try to subject and bring the crocodile under control. You can't do it with force; nor can you try to do it with persuasive words. Can you turn him into a servant, or make him an object of entertainment? In struggling with a crocodile, you will find that you have an impossible task on your hands. His hide and armour exceed that of the hippo. When he rages he is fierce beyondimagination. He scoffs all attempts to subdue him. Metal weapons, arrows and sling stones are futile against him. There is not his like upon earth. And it is with "him" that we must struggle on a daily basis. And without resisting him, i.e. our own human pride we cannot allow God's Word to humble us; in order that we may be able to draw near to our Creator King. In verses 1-6 of chapter 42 Job confesses his weakness and seeks for forgiveness. In verse 2 Job acknowledges, finally, the LORD's power and right to do with us as He wishes. The suffering servant's understanding of the Almighty has gone from a theoretical and untried faith to a faith that now entirety trusts his Maker, himself having been purged by his trials. Job had been proud of his relationship with the Almighty and yet he failed to understand God's right to test and prove him. Job had previously challenged God but now recognises his shortcomings. At last Job now has understanding of the infinite and uncreated power of the universe. In abject humility Job bows in reverence before his Sovereign. Verses 7-9 tell of Yahweh's rebuke of Job's 3 friends. The absence of Elihu from this group tells us that God is not displeased with him. The friends are told to offer sacrifices and seek for Job's intercession. Verses 10-17 explain that once Job had prayed for his friends God restored Job's losses twofold - except for his family; the presumption being that his lost family will be restored to Job in the Kingdom Age. Read aloud and slowly James 5verses11. Pause and ponder the principal lesson learned.

Thoughts on the Bible Readings December 30th (Job 40; Malachi 2; Revelation 19, 20)

In chapter 40 the Almighty continues His challenge to Job. In verse 1 the LORD accuses Job of being a faultfinder without a cause. From verses 2-5 Job acknowledges his fault and promises that he will listen in silence. Again, out of the whirlwind His Sovereign says, dress like a man in a contest and answer if you're able. Begin by considering the awesome majesty of the Almighty. God will abase all who are lifted up in pride. From verses 15-24 Job's attention is drawn to the wild river ox - most likely the hippopotamus. The hippo symbolises untameable human pride. Of all our ugly lusts pride is the worst. It creates a mighty chasm between ourselves and our Creator. The hippo has an incredible girth and a great appetite for procreation. He has the tiniest tail, yet waves it as though it's a mighty cedar - in our pride the easiest person to deceive Is ourself. The hippo's hide is legendarily tough - meaning that he is immune to correction. The hippo luxuriates in the filthiest parts of the river. Hippos kill more people in the rivers they inhabit than any other creatures of those habitats.Malachi 2verses1-9 contain a rebuke to the priests for a failure to fulfil the commission of their Sovereign. The responsibility of priests is to lead the nation in their reverence for Yahweh. The priests were to comprehend God's Word, break it small and dispense it to the people. They were the LORD's "messengers" - but they had failed in their duty. They bore no resemblance to Phinehas, from the tribe of Levi, who demonstrated his loyalty to His Sovereign; even at the great cost of slaying the guilty, even his own relatives. And for that reverence of the Almighty, God made a covenant with Phinehas of an everlasting priesthood - Phinehas will be among the immortal priests in Messiah's kingdom. Contrary to Phinehas' example the priests of the prophet's era were corrupt and partial. From verse 10 to the end of the chapter the prophet tells of one of the great abuses of that epoch - Jews were divorcing their covenant wives to marry younger, attractive Gentile brides - which was forbidden by God (compare Nehemiah 13, which describes the same evils of that era). The prophet, on God's behalf, upbraided them for their failure to uphold their Father's covenant. Verse 11 spells out the problem; in marrying these foreign wives they were in effect joining themselves to the foreign god. So, the person bringing an offering, while committing this evil, was an unacceptable hypocrite. The refused and rejected Jewish wives were imploring Yahweh to put an end to this evil. Examine your attitude towards your wife, says the prophet; and see that your own lustful and covetous motives cause you to be faithful to your marriage covenant which was made with your Sovereign as your witness. In the beginning, Genesis 2, the LORD made man and woman one by His creative act and His accompanying declarationverses read Genesis 2verses20-25. True marriage typifies the union of Christ and his brideverses Ephesians 5verses22-33. The oneness of husband and wife must be in thinking, even more than by just a physical union (which is characteristic of the lower created beings). The Almighty still had uncalled on reserves of power, but He is zealous over the faithfulness of His peopleverses James 4verses4-10. Your actions and callous disregard for your covenant wives and for the law of your God is tiresome to Him, says the prophet.

Thoughts on the Bible Readings December 29th (Job 39; Malachi 1; Revelation 17, 18)

In chapter 39 of Job the Almighty continues challenging Job to reply if he has any understanding of the marvels of creation put before him. The first example questions whether Job knows the gestation cycle of the wild goats. Then why is the wild donkey so free and stubborn? Or can you domesticate the wild ox?Despite its strength the ostrich is completely lacking in understanding for the care of its own. God has created all these animals, that we as humans, may learn care and responsibility. The warhorse shows no fear of the battle; on the contrary, he relishes it. Do you understand the marvels of flight and motherhood among the birds of prey? What incredible eyesight the eagle has. The eagle becomes symbolic of divine wisdom and perception. Despite the ruthlessness of his ways, the eagle is a tender provider for its young (unlike our stupid ostrich).

Thoughts on the Bible Readings December 28th (Job 38; Zechariah 13, 14; Revelation 15, 16)

Yahweh puts before Job in chapter 38, several of His mighty creative acts and dares the patriarch to explain how his Sovereign performed these marvels. Tell me about the foundations of the earth, if you can. Modern science has some ideas related to our earth's core; however, some hypotheses still surround certain aspects of this. Job is told that the creative work was the task of the angels - the sons of God. What about assigning the sea its boundaries? Or can you explain the delicate balance of the clouds and the water cycle? What do you make of the abundant riches of the oceans? Can you explain the relationship between light and darkness? Do you, Job, understand the treasures of the snow? There are no two snowflakes which are identical - yet every one of them is a perfect prismatic hexagon. The elements, says the Almighty, are My armoury prepared for the day of battle. What about the rain and dew, and My care for all creatures great and small - can you comprehend? Don't you understand that water is a unique liquid whose density decreases when frozen? By this means I preserve the life of fish and other creatures living in frigid climates. Do you understand the circuits of the constellations of Pleiades (the seven sisters), or Orion (heaven's giant)? What about Ursa Major (the giant bear - perhaps the first inference in the Bible of Russia)? The list of nature's inexplicable marvels goes on. The wisdom is evident. And with the psalmist (and no doubt also the dazed and amazed Job) we declare, "In wisdom (God) You made them all".

The Life Of Christ # 116 The Feast of Dedication pt 2 by John Martin

The Life Of Christ # 116 The Feast of Dedication pt 2 by John Martin

Thoughts on the Bible Readings December 27th (Job 37; Zechariah 12; Revelation 14)

Elihu concludes his speech in Job 37 by proclaiming the majesty of the Almighty. The final speeches of the book are delivered by our Sovereign God. And so, in a sense, Elihu is God's forerunner just as John the Baptist was of our Lord Jesus Christ as Malachi 3 prophesied he would so do. In the final chapter Job is asked by the Almighty to make intercession in prayer for his 3 friends. As no such intercession is requested for Elihu it is reasonable to conclude that Yahweh had accepted what Elihu had said. Like with Moses and Elijah at Mount Sinai, so did the LORD precede His speech with an awesome display of His might - on this occasion "out of the whirlwind'. The whirlwind is a symbol of warfare in the Bible - indicating there is a divine warfare in the book Job - between the Almighty against sin and self- righteousness. Elihu outlined the majestic power revealed in the thunder (spoken of in the Psalms as, "the voice of Yahweh of") and in the lightning and the interplay between these two momentous forces. Verse 6 says that the snow falls at the Almighty's command. Mankind and all creatures are cowed by His awesome power. And what God does is according to His will and He does it purposefully. How can you even understand such power, let alone think you can challenge the LORD? Humble yourself and learn from Him. Show reverential fear and cease from your conceit. The same words must be acknowledged by us and responded to by the way in which we live.

Thoughts on the Bible Readings December 26th (Job 35, 36; Zechariah 11; Revelation 12, 13)

In Job chapter 35 Elihu condemns Job. If we wonder about whether Elihu is a brash upstart, or whether he is a faithful younger man whose speech demonstrates the wisdom of God - this chapter provides us with the answer to that puzzle. And the answer is that the second statement represents Elihu's character.Every accusation against Job, which Elihu makes, is endorsed by the Almighty in His final speeches. Elihu contests that whether you're right, or whether you sin, God is no way advantaged. However, the LORD is pleased with children whose pleasure it is to please Him. You, Job, he says must see that you are just an insignificant speck of dust. The creature cries out because of pain and suffering, but so infrequently turns to God for His love and support (Romans 8verses18-25). Surely God made us to be more than brute beasts (Ecclesiastes 3verses17-22). Job, wake up to yourself and order your speech aright before your Sovereign. In order to put things in their true perspective, for Job and his friends, in chapter 36 Elihu extols the virtues and might of our Creator. Be patient and listen, Elihu urges them. I will speak in truth and wisdom he declares. It is not the intention of the Almighty to inflict endless sufferings on the wicked (see Hebrews 12verses5-11). He is, in His wisdom, crying to the sons of men, "Repent, turn to Me and be saved". Don't go to the grave in anger and vexation. It's so easy to judge the wicked and at the same time fail to see our own failures. Learn from failure and in all things praise and thank the Almighty. Consider the magnificence of His wisdom - all creation shouts, "In wisdom You have made us".